Stop Hating Mondays Podcast

Self-knowledge is the Key to Achieve Sustainable ContributionThe world often demands that making a difference requires a level of sacrifice we simply don't have the bandwidth to make. Kent and Caanan explore the "exhaustion trap" and why treating your own energy like an infinite resource is a recipe for burnout. This episode challenges the tradition of the "burnout martyr" and offers a roadmap for contributing to the world without further dysregulating yourself.Learn how to align your strengths, values, and interests to find a sustainable way to show up. Whether you are feeling guilty for being a bystander or are at zero capacity, discover how to move from asking what you have to do to what you have to give. CHAPTERS:(00:00) Why are we still doing that?(00:59) Mind Share: The case for all-in pricing and why "customer hostile" fees need to go(05:16) Listener Spark: Feeling guilty, burnt out, and at zero capacity(07:11) The Exhaustion Trap: Why showing up shouldn't be a second full-time job(11:51) Beyond the Instagram "Hero Moment": Finding your natural strengths(13:24) The NVR Framework: Aligning strengths, values, and interests(18:47) The Life Wheel: Auditing your energy cost and "Tuesday night" capacity(23:22) Worth the Time: The Olympics and the power of finding awe KEY TAKEAWAYS:The Energy Audit: Stop treating your resilience and empathy like infinite resources; they require intentional management and refilling.Alignment over Performance: Sustainable contribution happens when you stop trying to mimic curated social media activism and start using your specific "build."Energy Reserves: Living a No Vacation Required life involves planning for "energy-heavy" experiences by proactively creating reserves during quieter periods. MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:Strengths and Personality Assessments: https://novacationrequired.com/servicesEpisode 207: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6Cta2x5Q88sKX9jE1kGH1E?si=uv-s6leKQ2Sszntf32ARPgEpisode 221: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5U0FYd7zxr0qd2jOIqXoTU?si=1PKBLGeuQrC5ZPMIHx2mUAEpisode 222: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4wQluJxx1Md8BWcwyqNyUf?si=eG5hMucDR2e0PAIuVRecBg SUPPORT NO VACATION REQUIRED:If this episode helped you rethink how to manage your energy, please leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! It is the best way to help our message reach more people.Subscribe: Never miss an episode by hitting the follow button on Spotify or Apple PodcastsCheck out our website: https://novacationrequired.com/servicesRead our book: https://novacationrequired.com/bookFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novacationrequired/

Is Waiting for "Ready" Just a Slow Way of Dying?We often treat "preparation" as a virtue, but more often than not, it is a sophisticated lie we tell ourselves to avoid the discomfort of moving forward. Kent and Caanan explore why clarity is usually the result of action rather than a prerequisite for it. If you have been waiting for the stars to align or for one more certification before starting your project, this conversation is the nudge you need to stop waiting for a target that is always moving.From the geographical gatekeeping of "who can say they live in Seattle" to the paralyzing "panopticon" of social media where every mistake feels like potential viral bait, this episode tackles the modern obsession with perfection. Whether you are navigating corporate layoffs or just trying to start a creative habit, learn how to trade the elusive "perfect" for a messy, necessary start. CHAPTERS:(00:00) The lie of preparation(00:52) Mind Share: Geography, gatekeeping, and saying you're from Seattle(04:32) Spark: Responding to a creative project stuck in limbo for three years(07:34) The Perfection Trap: Gay community standards and the "Wayback Machine"(10:42) Moving through the cycle of constant crises(14:14) The New World Order: Handling the fear of tech layoffs and career stagnation(17:52) Three practical tips to move past perfection(23:43) Sandbox budgets and the power of a "Hype Person"(26:41) Worth the Time: Paper Girl by Beth Macy KEY TAKEAWAYS:• The B-Minus Rule: Commit to finishing a task with "good enough" quality to break the cycle of overthinking.• Messy Progress: Use a 15-minute timer to create the "ugly version" of your idea just to get the gears turning.• Fear-Basing: Ask yourself what the actual worst-case scenario is. Usually, it is a bruised ego, not a total disaster.• Ready is a Myth: Clarity happens after you move, not before. RESOURCES MENTIONED:• Strengths and Personality Assessments: https://novacationrequired.com/• Paper Girl by Beth Macy SUPPORT NO VACATION REQUIRED:If this episode helped you take a messy first step, please leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! It is the best way to help our message reach more people.• Subscribe: Never miss an episode by hitting the follow button on Spotify or Apple Podcasts• Check out our website: https://novacationrequired.com/services• Read our book: https://novacationrequired.com/book• Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novacationrequired/

Beyond Proximity: Why Logistics Aren't the Same as ConnectionIn a world that is more connected than ever, we have become experts at coexisting while remaining completely invisible to one another. Kent and Caanan explore the "parallel play" trap – where we trade the messiness of being truly seen for the safety of logistics – and how to move past the autopilot talk that keeps our relationships on the surface.From the silent distance of a shared sofa to the meaningless office one-on-ones, this episode offers practical sparks to reignite communication. Whether you are feeling like a roommate to your partner or a stranger to your team, learn how to stop settling for proximity and start building the depth required for a life you don't need a break from. CHAPTERS:(00:00) Why are we still doing that?(00:46) Mind Share: Breaking the code on the power of journaling(02:15) Mind Share: The "Post-Gender" double standard of "Bro" and "Dude"(04:46) Listener Mail: Escaping the 4-hour couch autopilot(06:16) Parallel Play: Why adults are acting like toddlers(10:42) Conditioning vs. Connection: It's not a lack of love, it's a lack of energy(14:16) Communication Sparks: The "Small Thing" and the "Big Thing" tools(19:54) Bringing it to Work: Making one-on-ones meaningful(22:16) Worth the Time: Rebuilding movie review (Josh O'Connor) KEY TAKEAWAYS:Proximity vs. Connection: Just because you are side-by-side doesn't mean you are connected; logistics are safe, but intimacy is found in the "messy" details.The Power of the Pivot: Using "icebreakers" like Wordle or a shared hobby can grease the wheels for deeper conversations without the exhaustion.Professional Depth: One-on-ones should focus on forward movement and personal development rather than just checking boxes to avoid feeling alone at work. RESOURCES MENTIONED:Strengths and Personality Assessments: https://novacationrequired.com/servicesRebuilding: https://letterboxd.com/film/rebuilding/ SUPPORT NO VACATION REQUIRED:If this episode helped you find a spark in your communication, please leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! It is the best way to help our message reach more people.Subscribe: Never miss an episode by hitting the follow button on Spotify or Apple PodcastsCheck out our website: https://novacationrequired.com/servicesRead our book: https://novacationrequired.com/bookFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novacationrequired/

Why We Talk But Don't Communicate (And How to Fix It)We've all heard that communication is the key to a healthy relationship, but few of us actually know how to use it. Kent and Caanan move past the tired cliches to discuss the logistics of how we speak, listen, and stay connected. This episode is an invitation to stop just talking and start focusing on the quality and mechanics of your interactions.From a surprising lesson at a doctor's office to a breakdown of what happens when the brain becomes "flooded," this conversation explores why so many of us communicate poorly even when we mean well. Whether you are navigating a 28-year marriage or a complex team dynamic at work, learn how to trade assumptions for inquiry and "talking at" for "listening with." CHAPTERS:(00:00) Why are we still doing that?(01:08) Mind Share: Why Kent's doctor doesn't have news on her phone(03:12) Why are we still communicating poorly?(10:42) The assumption trap: Checking in vs. assuming(14:00) Arguing in good faith: Are you communicating to win?(15:30) Understanding "The Flood": Communicating through overwhelm(21:39) The secret distinguisher: Listening vs. talking(24:02) Worth the Time: Helen Harper series review KEY TAKEAWAYS:Quality over Quantity: Communication isn't just about the volume of words; it's about clarity, directness, and ensuring your message is actually received.The Good Faith Test: Healthy dialogue requires an intention to understand rather than a desire to "win" the argument or bully a partner into submission.Respecting the "Flood": Recognizing when someone is scientifically unable to process information due to emotional overwhelm is vital for preventing unproductive conflict. RESOURCES MENTIONED:Strengths and Personality Assessments: https://novacationrequired.com/services SUPPORT NO VACATION REQUIRED:If this episode helped you improve a conversation today, please leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! It is the best way to help our message reach more people.Subscribe: Never miss an episode by hitting the follow button on Spotify or Apple PodcastsCheck out our website: https://novacationrequired.com/servicesRead our book: https://novacationrequired.com/bookFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novacationrequired/

Why Are We Still Not Regulating?The world has become objectively overwhelming, and many of us have started accepting high stress as a permanent fact of life. Kent and Caanan explore why we continue to run the same old scripts in a dysregulating environment and why prioritizing your nervous system is no longer a luxury, but a necessity for survival.From a vulnerable look back at their "growth phase" in 2016 to navigating the heavy toll of global news, this episode breaks down how to identify what truly drains your energy. Whether you are dealing with personal upheaval or the weight of the world, learn why prioritizing regulation and having the discernment to say "no" to things that upset your nervous system is the smartest move you can make for your well-being. CHAPTERS:(00:00) Why are we still not regulating?(00:49) Mind Share: Looking back at 2016 and the "Chapter 5" version of us(03:34) The universal struggle of a rough landscape(06:10) Carrying the world's problems on top of personal trauma(09:03) Lessons from 2016: The "Blood Pressure in the Car" era(12:45) When "good" things on paper are actually dysregulating(16:53) Energy Tracking: Green, Yellow, and Red activities(20:27) Worth the Time: The Traitors (TV series) and ACLU "Know Your Rights" literature KEY TAKEAWAYS:Regulation is Key: Your nervous system regulation is worth paying attention to all the time, regardless of how "productive" or "good" an activity seems on paper.Permission to Pivot: You have permission to stop doing things that are dysregulating, even if you've already committed to them or they are considered "growth-oriented."The "Everything" Table: Habits, diet, exercise, and the media you consume should all be evaluated by how they leave you feeling—either freer and more authentic or depleted and heavy. RESOURCES MENTIONED:Energy Tracking Worksheet: https://novacationrequired.com/store/worksheet-bundleACLU Know Your Rights: https://www.aclu.org/know-your-rightsStrengths and Personality Assessments: https://novacationrequired.com/services SUPPORT NO VACATION REQUIRED:If this episode helped you find a moment of peace or a new way to look at your stress, please leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! It is the best way to help our message reach more people.Subscribe: Never miss an episode by hitting the follow button on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.Check out our website: https://novacationrequired.com/servicesRead our book: https://novacationrequired.com/bookFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novacationrequired/

Why Everything Gets Our Attention but Nothing Gets Our CareIn an age of endless information, we often confuse being "informed" with being "effective." Kent and Caanan explore why the sheer volume of data we consume is actually eroding our ability to focus on what matters. This episode dives into the power of discernment and how the simple act of filtering out the noise allows our foundation work to thrive.From navigating complex family dynamics to the overwhelming nature of the modern news cycle, Kent and Caanan share personal stories about the trap of over-complicating our lives. Whether you are feeling stuck in a cycle of rumination or simply overwhelmed by your to-do list, learn why reclaiming simplicity is the most important skill you can develop in a complicated world. CHAPTERS:(00:00) Why are we still doing that?(00:51) Mind Share: Seattle's World Cup buzz and the city's new energy(02:24) Why are we still not using discernment?(03:37) A case study in family dilemmas(08:03) Moving from "Tweak" to "Letting Go"(13:42) Simplicity as the ultimate meaning(17:04) The Solution: Starting with self-regulation(21:03) Bottom Lining: The power of honest partnerships(23:35) Worth the Time: The Pitt (Medical drama review) KEY TAKEAWAYS:The Information Paradox: We don't struggle because we lack information; we struggle because we have too much of it, leading to a lack of care for what truly matters.The Evolving Category: How to use a "holding pen" for new ideas and dreams to protect your nervous system from immediate overwhelm.Self-Discernment: Understanding your own personality and introversion/extroversion scale is the first step toward making better external decisions.The Meaning in Simplicity: Choosing the simplest path isn't a lack of effort – it's often the "right" answer that provides the most clarity. MENTIONED IN THIS EPSISODE:Strengths and Personality Assessments: https://novacationrequired.com/The Pitt (via Rotten Tomatoes): https://www.rottentomatoes.com/tv/the_pitt SUPPORT NO VACATION REQUIREDIf this episode helped you find a bit of clarity today, please leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! It is the best way to help our message reach more people.Subscribe: Never miss an episode by hitting the follow button on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.Check out our website: https://novacationrequired.com/servicesRead our book: https://novacationrequired.com/bookFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novacationrequired/

Is Waiting for the "Perfect Time" Sabotaging Your Future?We often treat our dreams like fragile artifacts that can only be handled once we are "fully prepared" – whether that means reaching a certain age, hitting a savings goal, or waiting for the world to feel less turbulent. Kent and Caanan challenge the tradition of deferring life and explain why working with what you have is the most effective way to create lasting change.Drawing from their own history of starting a "no vacation required,” they break down the trap of the "I'm waiting because" list. From the importance of intentional doing to the surprising way dreams expand once you actually start moving, this episode is a call to fast-track your goals rather than keeping them in a permanent state of "later." CHAPTERS(00:00) Why are we still doing that?(00:51) Mind Share: The "Locked In" mentality and the satisfaction of flow(03:30) Lessons from the "Dream of the Planet"(05:32) Looking back at the "Old Days" of starting NVR(07:10) Fragility and the myth of the "guaranteed" future(09:55) Why starting now makes your dreams bigger(11:41) March 2020: A case study in living for now(13:33) Intentional Doing vs. "Churning"(15:19) Understanding who you are as a tool for change(16:45) Worth the Time: Why games are essential for mental clarity KEY TAKEAWAYSWork With What You Have: Waiting for the "right time" is a cycle that often leads to permanent deferment; the most powerful place to start is exactly where you are.Intentional Doing: Effective change is not about just "doing something" to feel busy; it must be tied to a clear vision of your life and your unique personality.Fragility as Motivation: Because health, politics, and social structures are inherently fragile, fast-tracking your dreams is a practical strategy rather than a risky one. RESOURCES MENTIONEDStrengths and Personality Assessments: https://novacationrequired.com/services SUPPORT NO VACATION REQUIREDIf this episode encouraged you to take a step toward your goals today, please leave a review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts! It is the best way to help our message reach more people.Subscribe: Never miss an episode by hitting the follow button on Spotify or Apple Podcasts.Check out our website: https://novacationrequired.com/servicesRead our book: https://novacationrequired.com/bookFollow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/novacationrequired/

We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That? This week, we're tackling the topic of quitting's close cousin: Changing Your Mind.If quitting makes people squirm, changing your mind about a decision seems to send the whole system into a meltdown. We've been trained to treat our decisions as final, even when new, credible information shows up. We're conditioned to think that being "belligerently resolute" is a virtue, but that is simply choosing to not grow.Here's the truth: Changing your mind isn't confusion, it's clarity. It's a smart, fluid move that shows you are paying attention. Real progress comes from being open to new information, not from sticking to a fixed stance.In this episode, we dismantle the culture that fears the "flip-flopper" label and make the case for mindful, informed evolution.You'll hear:Why changing your mind about a decision isn't confusion, it's clarity… And one of the smartest moves you can make.Kent's "mind share" on having an attitude of gratitude for being able to help people, and Caanan's thoughts on end-of-year "best of" lists.How the fear of being called a "flip-flopper" (especially in politics) teaches us that we aren't allowed to evolve, which discourages personal growth.The crucial difference between being flaky and mindfully changing your mind when new information shows up.Why being "belligerently resolute" is not a virtue but is, in fact, an inability to grow.The crucial value of perspective and why an inability to take in new information in any area of your life stops growth.How to apply this fluidity to big life decisions, like a new career track or a move, to avoid a larger long-term disaster.Our recommendation for the psychological thriller After the Hunt, and how it forces you to consider a character's "myriad perspectives".If you're holding onto a decision or path simply because you think you're "locked in," this episode is for you. We're giving you permission to embrace the clarity that comes from changing your mind.Onward and Inward,Caanan and Kent

We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That? This week, we're flipping the script to ask: Why are we still not recycling the things that actually work for us?For a culture obsessed with constant reinvention, there's a strange, collective pressure to always move on to the next thing, as if new is always better. We're conditioned to believe that you don't get credit for consistency and that true success lies in the next big innovation.The truth is, when a habit, routine, or approach delivers, it deserves another round. It deserves to be recycled and repeated with purpose. That's not boring—that's how you build momentum, free up mental space, and create the stable foundation needed to support all the exciting changes you do want to make.In this episode, we unpack the social pressure to constantly reinvent and make the case for proudly leaning into what works.You'll hear:Kent's "mind share" on the vital and necessary conversation around no-contact relationships, especially as the holidays approach, and why you shouldn't confuse real needs with immature behavior.Why "recycling" what works – like your fitness routine, core diet, or schedule – is the secret weapon that frees up the mental space for innovation.The funny paradox of being "The Change Guys" who also crave a deliberate, fulfilling core routine and how that balance fuels our life.The social commodity problem: Why there's no social currency in consistency and how social media performance encourages you to constantly chase the next big thing.A funny travel story about why we finally leaned into "basic" popular destinations (like Italy and Hawaii) and discovered that they are popular for a reason.How this mindset applies to everything from your daily schedule to large-scale infrastructure.Our simple, actionable tip for identifying and leaning into the routines that "fill you up and free you up."If you're feeling the pressure to blow up the good things in your life just to "shake things up," this episode is your permission to proudly stick with what delivers.Onward + Inward,Kent and Caanan

We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That? – and this week, we're asking a question that comes up every year as the calendar winds down: Why are we still waiting for New Year's resolutions?For a culture obsessed with grit, commitment, and self-improvement, we have a strange, collective habit of putting off the very things we know would benefit us right now.If you're serious about making a change, real progress starts the moment you decide it's worthwhile, not on some arbitrary date determined by the Earth's orbit. Yet, we let the concept of "New Year, New You" become a massive pressure cooker, leading to analysis paralysis and the fear that if we don't succeed perfectly, we've failed (or worse, lied to ourselves).In this episode, we unpack why waiting is just a delay tactic and make the case for a lighter, more fluid, and immediately satisfying approach to change.You'll hear:Kent's "mind share" on the current national increase in anger and how to choose to be a positive force in the world (hint: it's not toxic positivity).Why waiting for a New Year's resolution is often just a form of procrastination and a tool for delaying change you fear.The damaging idea that if you don't follow through on a plan exactly as you intended, you've lied to yourself – and why that mindset guarantees failure.Why change should be fluid and fun, allowing you to "dabble," iterate, and test-and-learn without committing to a four-year plan.The crucial value of knowing your personality type to determine your most optimal approach to change.A brief musing on the power of upbeat music and a look at our favorite end-of-year books that are heavy on topic but essential reads.If you're holding onto something you know you want to start, but you're waiting for January 1st, this episode is for you. We're giving you permission to stop waiting and start moving.Onward and Inward,Caanan and Kent

We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That?—and this week, right before the stress of the holidays hits, we're asking a fundamental question: Why are we staying miserable?We've spent the last few weeks talking about quitting and staying loyal to things that don't serve us , but now it's time to focus on your absolute non-negotiable right to protect your own peace. We're done with passive misery and letting external forces dictate our mood and steal our joy.This episode is all about diving into the tools you need to build resilience, choose fulfillment, and finally, confidently say yes to what serves you and no to what doesn't.In this episode, we unpack why we constantly let external forces steal our joy and what happens when you decide to take control of your experience by "curating your life".You'll hear:The damaging effects of the platitudinal old-school message that you "owe" family everything and must "make the holidays work".The concept of curating your life—looking at your time and energy as an art exhibit where you are the selective curator.Tools rooted in positive psychology that help you flourish, including how to re-work your sense of obligation and experience more positive emotions.All that, along with the breaking news that we're claiming the title of "Joyologists" (no, not really) and our suggestion for a worthwhile practice to start this holiday season: a gratitude journal.If you're dreading the holidays, or if you're constantly letting situations or people steal your peace, you'll want to give this listen. We want you to set yourself up for a better holiday season and a better year ahead.Onward & Inward,Caanan and Kent

We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That? — and this week, we're talking about something that makes people squirm, triggers collective pearl-clutching, and guarantees at least one relative whispering, “But what will people think?”We're talking about quitting.For a culture obsessed with grit, commitment, and “never give up,” quitting has been framed as a moral failing instead of what it often is: a brave, protective, and self-honoring choice. We're conditioned to push through, stay loyal, and tolerate things that make our lives smaller — even when we know something is no longer healthy or aligned.In this episode, we unpack the real reasons we avoid quitting and what opens up when we finally do.You'll hear: • The cultural programming that makes quitting feel like failure — and why that script is overdue for a rewrite. • The identity shame loop that keeps people stuck in jobs, relationships, and roles long past their expiration dates. • Why other people panic when you choose yourself — and how your quitting often exposes where they feel trapped. • A pivotal story from Kent's early career that shaped our entire No Vacation Required philosophy around agency, alignment, and not waiting for permission.All that, along with a brief musing on “cozy season” and something less cozy – ICE using Taylor Swift's music on TikTok and the surprising silence from her normally hyper-responsive team. Like, what's going on there?If you're feeling stuck in something that no longer serves you – or deserves you – you'll want to give this listen because we're giving you permission to quit that nonsense.Onward & Inward,Caanan and Kent

We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That? — and this week, we're talking about something we've all been conditioned to do: staying loyal to things that no longer serve or deserve us.From jobs that drain us to loyalty programs that stopped rewarding us years ago, we have a knack for sticking around out of habit – or fear. Fear of missing out, fear of change, fear of uncertainty. But that kind of blind loyalty keeps us stuck, limits our options, and quietly steals resources (time, money, energy) we could be using to pursue what actually matters.In this episode, we unpack what's really behind our tendency to “stay loyal,” even when it's not serving us — and what it looks like go “free agent.”.You'll hear:How loyalty programs have diminishing returns and greater demandsHow companies use identity and belonging to keep us tied to systems that don't have our best interests at heartWhy fear — not commitment — is often the real reason we stay putHow mindfulness and regular “life audits” can help you spot where your loyalty has turned into autopilotAnd in this week's Mindshare, we're talking about gratitude — and how small acts of appreciation can cut through cynicism and help build a more empathetic world, especially in tough times.This episode is your reminder that loyalty is beautiful when it's earned, but limiting when it's automatic.Choose what (and who) you give your loyalty to — and make sure it's giving something meaningful back.Onward & Inward,Kent and Caanan

We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That? This week, we're taking on something we're all guilty of – assuming we know what someone else is thinking instead of just asking.You know what we're talking about. That reflex to fill in the blanks, interpret a tone, or spin a whole story from a single look. It's become such a normalized part of communication that we rarely notice when we're doing it. But all that guessing creates unnecessary drama, blocks real understanding, and keeps us from the very thing we want most: connection.In this episode, we talk about why mind reading persists (and how much of it comes down to fear of rejection, confrontation, or vulnerability).You'll hear:Why we developed TwoFinder to help people in all kinds of relationships stop assuming and start understanding.How learning about each other's personalities changed our own relationship – and dramatically reduced the number of chair-related misunderstandings.Why it's worth asking instead of assuming, even when it feels uncomfortable.And in this week's Mindshare, we're talking about off-cycle elections and vote-by-mail, something every citizen in the US should have access to.This episode is your reminder that connection starts with curiosity — and that asking beats assuming every single time.Onward & Inward,Caanan and Kent

We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That? This week, we're taking on something we all do more than we'd like to admit: naysaying.You know what we're talking about — that knee-jerk reaction to critique, compare, or center ourselves in someone else's story. It's become such a common part of the way we engage with the world that we hardly notice it anymore. But it's bad, literally bad, for our health and it keeps us from connecting, learning, and growing.In this episode, we talk about how naysaying shows up in our own lives (including a very real listener email).You'll hear:Why habitual naysaying is usually more about fear or insecurity than insightHow to stop centering yourself in every conversation (yes, even in bean soup and chocolate chip cookie recipes)What positive psychology says about breaking the cycle and finding more joyAnd in this week's Mindshare, we're talking (briefly, we promise) about the new iPhone 17 Pro and how gorgeous Seattle is in October.This episode is a nudge to notice when we're slipping into criticism and to remember that encouragement, curiosity, and compassion are better for everyone.Onward & Inward,Kent and Caanan

We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That? This time, we're asking a question that's surprisingly hard to talk about: Why are we still ashamed of building the life we actually want?In this episode, we get real about what it feels like to live – and publicly own – a life that's been designed with intention. From our early marathon-training conversations that sparked the No Vacation Required philosophy to the curious reactions we still get when people learn we spend nearly all of our time together, we're unpacking the cultural conditioning that makes fulfillment feel like something we have to defend.You'll hear:Why it can feel awkward to admit you're happyHow social conditioning keeps us apologizing for joy and fulfillment (if it doesn't keep us from pursuing those things first)What a poolside conversation revealed about how people measure worthPlus, in this week's Mindshare, we talk about our recent Disneyland trip—what it taught us about nostalgia, value, and why it's time to rethink what we're buying into.This episode is all about removing the shame from fulfillment and celebrating the courage it takes to build and broadcast the life you truly want.Onward & Inward,Caanan and Kent

We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That? — and this time, we're asking the question that's been on our minds lately: Why are we still sitting things out when everything is changing?In this episode, which marks a bit of a relaunch with a whole new format, we take a hard look at how much the world has shifted — politically, culturally, and personally — and explore what it means to really show up right now. From volunteering experiences that reminded us how much good is still happening to a tough decision to leave Substack behind, we talk about what it looks like to live our No Vacation Required philosophy in real time.You'll hear:Why sitting things out isn't an option in times of rapid changeHow we decided to step away from Substack — and what that revealed about our valuesHow a commercial we filmed for the State of Washington last year provided the clarity we were seeking nowHow our CHANGE framework helps us (and our clients) navigate uncertain timesPlus, we share the mindset shift that's helping us — and hopefully you — redefine what it means to build a life you don't need a break from in a world that's anything but steady.Onward & Inward,Kent and Caanan

We're excited to share our new podcast, No Vacation Required. In every episode, we ask one simple but powerful question: “Why are we still doing that?”—challenging the outdated ideas and tired traditions that keep us feeling stuck or unfulfilled.

We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That? — and this time, we're rethinking the age-old question that still lingers in job interviews, leadership trainings, and well-meaning conversations: Where do you want to be in five years?In this episode, we explore why that question doesn't hold up anymore — especially in a world that feels more uncertain and fast-moving than ever. Instead of obsessing over the title or role you want “someday,” we talk about what it means to tune into how you want to feel — and how that simple shift can change everything.You'll hear:Why “Where do you want to be?” is the wrong question — and what to ask insteadHow the five-year plan keeps us stuck in a role-based mindsetWhy tuning into your energy can lead to smarter, more fulfilling decisionsPlus, we've got a simple but powerful tool that can help you get clear on what's working — and what's not.Onward & Inward,Caanan and Kent

We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That? This time we're exploring the myth of “the next thing” – why we're conditioned to believe fulfillment lives just. over. there. when, in fact, the fulfillment is available to you right. here.You'll hear:Something Neil Patrick Harris talked about that perfectly captures the endless pursuit of the “next level”How social currency, FOMO, and even well-meaning friends keep us focused on “what's next” instead of “what's now”A funny story about a dream trip, a boat tour, and the woman who couldn't stop selling her next dream tripPlus, we unpack how knowing yourself—your values, strengths, and what actually matters to you—can help you break free from the chase and build fulfillment today.Spoiler: The thing you're chasing probably isn't the thing.Onward & Inward,Kent and Caanan

We're back with another episode of Why Are We Still Doing That? This time we're exploring externalization vs. internalization – why we obsess over outward success and validation while ignoring the most important data source: ourselves. You'll hear:• The story of Anya, a top performer who finds personal development unexpectedly harder once her external mission ends.• How the “office mom” who nurtures everyone else can't turn that same care inward.• Why evidence‑based decision‑making feels essential at work but “woo‑woo” when applied to personal growth.• Our soap‑box on a culture trained to chase external approval – from childhood messages to social‑media metrics – and how to flip the script.Plus, we implore you to start using good self‑data – your strengths, values, and even your intuition – as your first point of reference for lasting fulfillment.Onward & Upward,Caanan and Kent

As you now know, every month we are tackling a topic related to building a life you don't need a break from. We do that by asking the question “why are we still doing that?” about some outmoded idea or past-its-fresh-by-date tradition. In this episode, we're continuing our conversation about redefining success.In this episode, we're talking about how society's obsession with hyper-efficiency is stealing our joy and how to reclaim it through intentional living. We're sharing insights on how to shift your mindset and live a richer, more fulfilling life, including such hits as:How outsourcing isn't the key to more time.Why chores – like making your own oatmeal (we're dead serious) and simple tasks can bring true joy.The link between hyper-productivity and declining health.All that, and a little soap-box moment about why the pursuit of more money is really about freedom, in a tight 13:34. How efficient!Onward & Upward,Caanan and Kent

We're back with another episode of “Why are we still doing that?” – examining the habits, beliefs, and expectations that no longer serve us and, more importantly, exploring actionable strategies to help you build a life you don't need a break from.In this episode, we dig into the idea that success is yours to define. After our last discussion on invoking your agency, we heard from many of you who said, “I love the idea, but I don't even know what I stand for.” So, in addition to talking about the crucial first step in our L.I.F.E. philosophy, we talk about:How important it is to have personal measures of success, not just in your career.A pivotal moment in our relationship when we realized we had been following someone else's script for success – and how rewriting that script led us to a more fulfilling life together.An ad campaign we did for Sate of Washington Tourism framed around how our take on romance / relationships shapes how we travel.Plus, we revisit a memorable conversation with a group of bridesmaids in Cabo, who had very basic opinions on what makes a romantic partner worthy.If you've ever felt like you're chasing someone else's version of success, this episode is for you.Onward & Upward,Kent and Caanan

We're so excited to launch the No Vacation Required podcast, where – in addition to audio posts – we ask the question “why are we still doing that?” about things that no longer serve us and, more importantly, explore actionable strategies to help you build a life you don't need a break from.In this first episode of Why Are We Still Doing That?, we dive into the concept of invoking your agency – a cornerstone of creating fulfillment in every role you play. Drawing from over 15 years of experience helping individuals and organizations thrive, we discuss why communication and authenticity are crucial for personal and professional growth.We discuss:The cost of “keeping the peace” versus the power of “finding peace.”Practical steps to express your needs and embrace your authentic self, even when facing constraints.How organizations can create Sunday Scaries-free teams by supporting holistic employee well-being.We share real-life examples of how staying silent and keeping the peace stifles growth and relationships, along with advice for making small, impactful changes toward greater alignment with your values and goals.Onward & Upward,Caanan and Kent

For years, we've focused on the grind — specifically, how to stop hating Mondays and find fulfillment in our careers. But as the world has changed, our conversation has evolved.In Season 2, we're moving beyond the workplace to ask a much bigger question: Why are we still doing that?We're deconstructing the outdated traditions, unspoken rules, and internal scripts that keep us stuck. Join host Kent as we shift from career strategy to holistic self-understanding, building a life that you truly don't need a break from.New here? Start with Season 2 to join our current conversation.Need career advice? Explore our Season 1 library for resources on changing your relationship with work.Let's start questioning the status quo together!

 Today's question is about passion. Simply Eric asks, "how do I find my passion?" --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/stophatingmondays/message

Tips for how to make your next video job interview more effective, including advice to use the S.T.A.R. behavioral interview format when answering questions. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/stophatingmondays/message

Q. I don't have a question as much as a very short rant. My boss keeps calling our team a family, and I hate it! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/stophatingmondays/message

Q. My annual performance review and raise is coming up and I've just been asked to do my self review. I am horrible at every part of this process. What tips do you have? --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/stophatingmondays/message

Q. I get so much more done at home, but my employer acts like not putting in enough hours is like stealing from company. Would they prefer I work more but be less productive? --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/stophatingmondays/message

Q. My company went fully remote during the pandemic. I love the flexibility, the pay is solid, and was able to move closer to family. Now my employer is demanding that everyone return to the office 3 days a week and I'm screwed. I live 1,000 miles away now. Plus, I'm way happier and more productive than when I was in the office. What's your advice for people who are being forced back into the office? --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/stophatingmondays/message

Q. As someone who was recently laid off and is now seeking a new position after 15 years, I want to approach the job offer process with a positive mindset. Could you please provide some key factors or considerations I should keep in mind when I inevitably get a job offer? --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/stophatingmondays/message

Q. You recently talked about how more people than ever consider well-being to be a better measure of wealth than money. I feel the same way, but I also feel like well-being is hard to measure. Maybe I'm the only one who doesn't get it, but how do you define and measure “well-being?” --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/stophatingmondays/message

Q. I see a lot being written about how bad it is to find meaning in your work. I like and feel gratified by what I do for a living, but I'm actually feeling that is somehow a bad thing now. What do you think? --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/stophatingmondays/message

Q. Ever since the pandemic, money holds less and less importance. The problem is I am finding it challenging to make decisions that prioritize doing what does matter to me, like spending time with family and friends? Any tips? --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/stophatingmondays/message

Q: I've been reading a lot about how much time you can save by letting AI write your resumes and cover letters. Do you think that's a good idea? Note: We're making some changes to the blog and Stop Hating Mondays podcast. We're shifting to a shorter, more responsive, and quicker to consume format. And you'll now be able to listen or read in more places. We are grateful for you and hope you find the new approach even better. Of course, we always welcome your ideas for how we can make the Stop Hating Mondays blog and podcast as helpful and relevant as possible. Thanks! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/stophatingmondays/message

For years, we've been told that goal setting is fundamental to success and fulfillment.  Recently, however, there's been a lot of chatter about the negative aspects of goal setting. For most people, the whole topic of goals are bad is either a complete shock or at least completely confusing, so let's get into it. On this episode of the Stop Hating Monday's podcast, we're discussing the negative aspects of goals and a better way to move things forward.  --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/stophatingmondays/message

There is a very popular, really challenging hike in the Seattle area called “Mailbox Peak." It's about 8 miles and 4,000 feet of elevation gain. And at the top, you get incredible views of the cascade mountains. And there is a beat up old mailbox where people leave little notes, meditations, and prayers. Kent and I did this hike, and when we got to the top, the clouds were so thick that we had absolutely no view. And we could barely find the mailbox. And, yet, it turned out to be one of our favorite hikes of the year. In the Stop Hating Mondays book, we talk a lot about uncertainty and the power of letting go of outcomes. And that's what we're discussing on today's episode of the Stop Hating Mondays Podcast. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/stophatingmondays/message

Most of us live in a culture that is obsessed with more. For example, here in the US, the self storage industry is a $40 billion dollar business. That's $40 billion dollars people spend every year to store stuff they don't have space for or don't need but are unwilling to get rid off. And that's just the physical stuff. Just as common are the people who are unwilling to let go of old mindsets, beliefs, and habits that no longer serve them – and there is no option to offload those to a temperature controlled storage unit down the street. On this episode of the Stop Hating Mondays Podcast, we're talking about how important space is to personal development. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/stophatingmondays/message

Our long-term listeners know that we talk a lot about how you have many roles, but there is only one you and that positive growth in one of your roles can have a positive impact on all of your roles. But in this episode of the Stop Hating Mondays Podcast, we're flipping the script and talking about how challenging it can be to try to make progress in one role while there are aspects of your life that are uncared for. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/stophatingmondays/message

In the last episode of the Stop Hating Mondays Podcast, we touched on something that struck a chord with several listeners – the idea that not everyone intuitively understands why self-knowledge is important. We get it. This is one of those topics that is often covered as if everyone just naturally gets why it matters. And the truth is, that's just not the case. So on this episode of the Stop Hating Mondays Podcast, we're continuing to talk about some of the more practical aspects of self-knowledge. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/stophatingmondays/message

In the spirit of the New Year, we're making this season of the Stop Hating Monday's podcast an extension of the last season's focus on personal development. And we're kicking it off with a conversation about values: what they are, why they matter, and how knowing your values can be even more transformational than knowing your strengths. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/stophatingmondays/message

Have you ever felt like you might be a lot more successful if you were less caring? Maybe if you were more Gordon Gecko and less Mr. Rogers, you'd earn more? You'd get that promotion? You'd demand more respect from your higher ups? Maybe you would. But you'd also be a sociopath. From Wall Street to Succession, we're inundated with messages that tell us being less humanistic – less caring – is the secret to success. And many corporate profit models would seem to support that. But it's not entirely true. On this episode of the Stop Hating Mondays Podcast, we're tackling a big question: does being compassionate and humanistic make you less successful. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/stophatingmondays/message

In the Stop Hating Mondays book that sparked this podcast, we talk about the hope / disappointment cycle. Olivia starts a new position only to find soon after that she's unfulfilled and needs a change. So she starts something new and once again finds that she's in the wrong role. This hope / disappointment cycle is extremely common, and there is only one effective way to break it. On this episode of the Stop Hating Mondays Podcast, we're talking about the importance and power of personal development. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/stophatingmondays/message

Something you think is objectively frustrating happened at work, and you're upset about it. Your coworker agrees that what happened is frustrating, but just isn't that bothered by it? How can that be? You both experienced the same thing, right? On this episode of the Stop Hating Mondays Podcast were discussing how people can experience the same thing – workplace disruptions, assertive bosses, a problematic corporate culture – but have dramatically different responses. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/stophatingmondays/message

Passions. Hobbies. Interests. These are terms that get thrown around a lot, and they are often used interchangeably. So it's no wonder that many people misunderstand the difference between them. And that misunderstanding can make the desire to find your passion even more challenging than it already is. On this episode of the Stop Hating Monday's Podcast, we're getting into passion and hobbies, the difference between them, and why it matters. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/stophatingmondays/message

Where do you see yourself in five years? If that question made you break out in a cold sweat, you're not alone. But don't worry, we're not interested in your five year plan. What we are interested in is your personal growth – the kind of growth that is fundamental to achieving any meaningful goal. On this episode of the Stop Hating Mondays Podcast, we've got some tips for how to effectively set and achieve personal development goals. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/stophatingmondays/message

It's no secret that large organizations, especially big businesses and corporations in the West, favor extroverts. Corporate culture tends to reward people who are highly sociable, talkative, and assertive – qualities that come more naturally to extroverts. In fact, studies show that extroverts are more likely to land high paying jobs. Well, that's great news for extroverts, but what if you're an introvert? On this episode of the Stop Hating Mondays podcast, Kent and I are discussing extroversion and introversion. Specifically, we're talking about how an introvert can thrive in a culture that is biased toward extroverts. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/stophatingmondays/message

Career FOMO is real. The great resignation – or, more correctly, great reshuffling – is creating a lot of movement in the world of work. And it's making people who are otherwise satisfied with their jobs feel like they are missing out. On this episode of the Stop Hating Mondays Podcast, we're talking about how to stay grounded during this period of upheaval and what the great resignation means for happy employees. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/stophatingmondays/message

Almost everybody has an interview horror story. It's an unfortunate reality of the entire job search process – bad interviews happen to everyone – but that doesn't mean they aren't cringy, frustrating, and upsetting. So what can you do to minimize the potential that your next job interview will go sideways? On this episode of the Stop Hating Mondays Podcast, we're talking about ways to set yourself up for success and handle interviews that don't go as planned. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/stophatingmondays/message

So you got a job offer, but that moment of relief you feel – the feeling that all your hard work has paid off – fades fast once you realize that you now have to negotiate. So what do you do? On this episode of the Stop Hating Mondays Podcast, we've got some important tips for what to do when you get a job offer and some information that should make the process a little less nerve-wracking. --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/stophatingmondays/message