The Growth Project

Follow The Growth Project
Share on
Copy link to clipboard

Our group is traditionally trained in sport and performance psychology, and in the spirit of what we do, the purpose of our podcast is to make a positive impact on your life and challenge you to think differently on topics related to growth. Through conversations with coaches, athletes, executives, and leaders of industry, we will explore and highlight the mindset and skillset required for lasting growth. Ultimately, we exist to provide you with the tools to become the best version of you. At AMPLOS, we’re passionate about helping you pursue better.

Dr. Milt Lowder, Dr. Drew Brannon, Dr. Cory Shaffer, Dr. Katie Nichols


    • May 28, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekly NEW EPISODES
    • 38m AVG DURATION
    • 331 EPISODES

    4.8 from 65 ratings Listeners of The Growth Project that love the show mention: great podcast, listen.


    Ivy Insights

    The Growth Project podcast is an absolute gem for anyone seeking personal growth and leadership development. With each episode, I am guaranteed to find a nugget of wisdom that I can share with my team and apply to various aspects of my life. This podcast has been invaluable in my professional growth, leadership skills, family dynamics, and even as a Christian looking to make a positive impact on others.

    One of the best aspects of The Growth Project is the relevant discussion points and the interesting guests that are brought onto the show. The hosts, known as the men of Synergy, are extremely knowledgeable and easy to listen to. They have a knack for finding relatable topics to discuss and they form an easy-going, down-to-earth relationship with their listeners. This makes it easier for me to connect with the material and absorb the valuable insights being shared.

    What sets The Growth Project apart from other podcasts is its actionable approach. As a former athlete and current business professional, I've come across numerous podcasts that raise thought-provoking questions but fail to provide concrete steps for applying the knowledge gained from those questions. However, this podcast goes above and beyond by providing practical advice from professionals in order to help listeners implement what they learn into their own lives. It truly caters to individuals who are actively seeking personal growth and success in their particular pursuits.

    While it's hard to find any major flaws with The Growth Project podcast, one potential downside could be that it primarily focuses on leadership within college athletics. Although the principles discussed can be applied to various industries and contexts, some listeners may prefer a more diverse range of topics or examples from different fields. However, the authenticity and expertise of the hosts shine through regardless, making it worthwhile for leaders in any domain.

    In conclusion, The Growth Project podcast is an outstanding resource for anyone striving to become their best self. Whether you're seeking personal growth or looking to enhance your leadership skills, this podcast offers relevant discussions, interesting guests, and actionable advice that can be applied to various areas of your life. The hosts are true professionals with a wealth of knowledge to offer, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to improve themselves and find success by staying true to their "Why."



    Search for episodes from The Growth Project with a specific topic:

    Latest episodes from The Growth Project

    Episode 331: Rory McIlroy's Grand Slam Mentality

    Play Episode Listen Later May 28, 2025 30:18 Transcription Available


    Drs. Milt Lowder and Cory Shaffer dive into the mental game behind Rory McIlroy's journey to Masters victory this past April. Drawing insights from his post-win press conference at Augusta National, they explore the mindset required for elite performance, the psychological hurdles of chasing a career Grand Slam, and what Rory's reflections reveal about his mental approach. This conversation unpacks the championship mentality that separates great athletes and the focused mindset required to rise to the moment on golf's biggest stage.

    Episode 330: Culture is the Advantage with Scott Watkins

    Play Episode Listen Later May 21, 2025 53:56 Transcription Available


    In this episode, Dr. Drew Brannon sits down with Scott Watkins, Senior Vice President, Advanced Manufacturing Market Leader at Clayco. Scott shares his path to leadership and how forward-thinking organizations gain a competitive edge by investing in people. He unpacks the critical role of talent development and how fostering a growth-focused culture drives success—especially on complex projects involving large teams, like those at Clayco.

    Episode 329: Humanizing Business with Sims Key and Alisha Coleman

    Play Episode Listen Later May 14, 2025 45:46 Transcription Available


    In this episode, Dr. Drew Brannon sits down with Sims Key and Alisha Coleman of Equip Studio, a successful, culture-focused architecture firm based in Greenville, SC. They share how their team builds a business that honors both God and people. From prioritizing internal excellence to investing deeply in their people, Sims and Alisha offer a refreshing blueprint for humanizing business. This conversation explores work/life wholeness, purpose-driven culture, and the belief that doing things well—on a human level—creates lasting impact.

    Episode 328: Break the Scroll with Dr. Kimberly Shaffer

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2025 33:54 Transcription Available


    The average person spends nearly four hours a day on their phone, adding up to a quarter of their waking life! Given the magnitude of that time, Dr. Cory Shaffer and Dr. Kimberly Shaffer, Director of the Sport, Exercise & Performance Psychology Program at Barry University, explore the psychological toll of our digital habits. They discuss how excessive phone use can quietly erode our presence, especially in parenting, and share practical strategies for setting healthier boundaries with technology. Whether you're raising kids, leading a team, or simply striving to be more present, this conversation will help you break the scroll and live with greater intention.

    Episode 327: Sixty Days in the Dark (Part 3)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 30, 2025 41:08 Transcription Available


    In the final installment of the Sixty Days in the Dark series, Dr. Drew Brannon reflects with Dr. Milt Lowder on the realizations that followed his unexpected medical issue that left him with extremely limited eyesight for 60 days. From the unwavering support of his wife to redefining what's truly important, Drew shares how slowing down helped him show up more intentionally. This episode explores how hardship reshapes perspective and the quiet strength we discover in moments of uncertainty.

    Episode 326: Sixty Days in the Dark (Part 2)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2025 38:42 Transcription Available


    In Part 2 of this powerful series, Dr. Drew Brannon joins Dr. Milt Lowder to explore what it means to walk through the “dark hallway”—the space between loss and clarity, fear and faith. Drew reflects on the sudden medical issue that left him with severely limited eyesight for 60 days, and how he kept moving forward when the future felt uncertain. This episode is a testament to perseverance, perspective, and the power of choosing growth in the face of hardship.

    Episode 325: Sixty Days in the Dark (Part 1)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2025 45:35 Transcription Available


    In this powerful first installment of a three-part series, Dr. Milt Lowder sits down with Dr. Drew Brannon to unpack the most challenging season of Drew's life—a sudden medical issue that left him with extremely limited eyesight for 60 days. With raw honesty and vulnerability, Drew shares what it was like to navigate the darkness, the emotional toll it took, and how he began to find strength in the struggle. Tune in to learn more about determination, grit, and the inner resolve it takes to overcome hardship.

    Episode 324: Find Your Hard with Nolan Lennon

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2025 53:30


    Former Clemson soccer player Nolan Lennon knows pain, perseverance, and purpose. After tearing his ACL four times, he stepped away from the game he loved and into the world of ultramarathons. In this episode, Nolan joins Dr. Cory Shaffer to talk about redefining success, the mindset needed to push past limits, and how embracing suffering helped him find clarity. It's a raw, inspiring look at what it means to prepare, endure, and grow.

    Episode 323: "Building Up" with David Wise

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 2, 2025 52:03


    What does it take to build trust, foster culture, and create lasting impact? In this episode, David Wise, President & CEO of Harper General Contractors, shares how trust serves as the foundation for meaningful growth. With over 34 years of experience, David has played a key role in transforming Greenville, SC into a thriving city. He discusses the power of culture, vocation as a calling, and some of his favorite construction projects. Tune in to discover how "building up" people builds up the world around us.

    Episode 322: Battle-Tested Leadership with Navy Special Operator Oran Feiner

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 26, 2025 40:20


    What can business leaders learn from Navy special operations? In this episode, Dr. Cory Shaffer talks with retired Navy special operator Oran Feiner, who brings 20 years of leadership experience in the Navy warfare community. They explore the principles of high-stakes performance, building resilient teams, and leading with precision under pressure. Oran shares hard-earned insights on decision-making, adaptability, and fostering trust, skills that translate seamlessly from the battlefield to business and beyond.

    Episode 321: Getting Results with Extreme Commitment

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 19, 2025 37:17


    How committed are you to the results you want? In this episode, Drs. Drew Brannon and Cory Shaffer break down the direct link between commitment and outcomes, using Navy Special Operators as a prime example of extreme dedication. They reveal how purposeful plans, clearly defined roles, and unwavering investment drive consistent, exceptional results. Whether in teams or personal pursuits, this episode offers a blueprint for turning ambitious goals into reality through relentless commitment.

    Episode 320: Three Keys to Keeping Composure

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 12, 2025 39:28


    Have you ever lost your cool when the pressure was on? In this episode, Drs. Drew Brannon and Cory Shaffer reveal Three Truths About Composure, the key to staying calm, focused, and in control when it matters most. Composure is a powerful advantage that allows high performers to thrive under pressure. Without it, even the most capable individuals can struggle to reach their full potential. Tune in to discover practical strategies for mastering composure and unlocking your best performance.

    Episode 319: Raising Resilient Kids

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 5, 2025 33:31


    How do we raise children who embrace challenges, value self-improvement, and develop mental resilience? In this episode, Dr. Cory Shaffer, AMPLOS mental performance coach and father of two, sits down with Connor Huston, AMPLOS Director of Content & Media and new dad, to explore practical strategies for fostering a growth mindset in kids. From gratitude practices to emotional intelligence and handling failure, this conversation is packed with actionable insights for parents looking to raise strong, mentally tough children.

    Episode 318: Overcoming Mental Traps to Strengthen Performance

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 26, 2025 31:49


    What holds you back from reaching your full potential? In this episode, Dr. Cory Shaffer sits down with Clemson PhD student and AMPLOS intern Marlee Johnson to explore the psychology of high performance—both individually and within a team. They break down the biggest mental traps that hinder success and tackle compelling questions related to performance, including: If you could eliminate one self-limiting behavior in most people, what would it be? Tune in for actionable insights to elevate your mindset and performance.

    Answering ChatGPT's Top Questions on Leadership & Adaptability

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 19, 2025 30:00


    In this episode, Dr. Cory Shaffer and Clemson PhD student and AMPLOS intern Marlee Johnson answer top questions curated by ChatGPT, diving into the overlooked trends in leadership and performance psychology. They explore how to cultivate adaptability in a fast-changing world and share expert insights on navigating challenges in work, sport, and life. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that blends research, experience, and practical strategies to help you stay ahead.

    Episode 316: Escaping the Mediocrity Trap

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2025 36:58


    Are you stuck in the mediocrity trap—settling for comfort instead of striving for growth? In this episode, Drs. Drew Brannon and Cory Shaffer break down what keeps us stagnant and how to create the escape velocity needed to break free from being “happy enough.” They explore key mindset shifts and actionable strategies to push beyond average and pursue excellence. Tune in for a compelling conversation on moving past mediocrity and unlocking your full potential.

    Episode 315: Transform Stress to Work for You with Dr. Rebecca Heiss

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 5, 2025 36:53


    We all experience stress, but what if you could make it work for you instead of against you? Dr. Cory Shaffer talks with Dr. Rebecca Heiss, stress physiologist and author of Springboard: Transform Stress to Work For You, to explore how we can reframe our perspective on stress. She breaks down her three-step process to harness stress, turning it into a powerful tool for growth and performance. Their conversation challenges common misconceptions and offers practical strategies to transform stress into a catalyst for success.

    Episode 314: Nike's Principles for Success

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2025 40:07


    In this special live episode from TPM's annual kickoff in downtown Greenville, SC, Drs. Milt Lowder and Cory Shaffer dive into five of Nike's Principles that fuel their iconic success. They explore why having principles is essential as a guiding north star and break down powerful ideas like “our business is change,” “offense all the time,” and “it won't be pretty.” Learn how embracing these principles can drive meaningful change and make success “damn near automatic.”

    Episode 313: Final Thoughts on the 2024 College Football Season

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 22, 2025 40:56


    The 2024 college football season was one to remember - filled with dramatic twists and valuable lessons. Drs. Drew Brannon and Cory Shaffer, sport psychologists for Georgia and Oregon football, reflect on the season's end, unpack key takeaways, and share lessons that resonate far beyond the field. They explore how mindset shapes performance at the highest level and offer valuable insights into fostering resilience, managing pressure, and turning challenges into opportunities for growth. Whether you're a fan, athlete, or leader, this episode has something for everyone.

    Episode 312: Living Audaciously – Anne Marie Anderson on Dismantling Doubt and Letting Yourself Win

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 15, 2025 30:45


    In this episode, Dr. Cory Shaffer sits down with three-time Emmy-winning EPSN sports broadcaster Anne Marie Anderson to discuss her book, Cultivating Audacity: Dismantle Doubt and Let Yourself Win. Anne Marie shares how embracing bold risks and confronting fear transformed her career and personal growth. Discover the four barriers that hold you back—fear, time, money, and your inner critic—and learn how to work with them instead of letting them drive your decisions.

    Episode 311: How to Stick with Your 2025 Goals

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 8, 2025 36:44


    Research show that about 30% of Americans set New Year's resolutions, yet only 9% see them through to the end of the year. As we age, the likelihood of setting goals diminishes even further. Drs. Drew Brannon and Cory Shaffer break down why most resolutions fail before February and present a proven framework for success. They share actionable strategies to set meaningful goals, build sustainable habits, and stay motivated. Learn how to own your resolutions and achieve what matters most in 2025!

    Episode 310: Reflections, Resolutions, and Unanswered Questions

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 1, 2025 32:02


    In this special episode, Drs. Milt Lowder, Drew Brannon, and Cory Shaffer close out 2024 and welcome 2025 with thoughtful reflections and fresh insights. Revisiting unanswered audience questions from the 300th episode live event, including the 3 leadership attributes that drive peak performance, practical strategies to recover from and prevent burnout, and powerful ways to jumpstart personal growth, they provide actionable advice, and a chance to start the new year with purpose and clarity.

    Episode 309: Finding Holiday Harmony – Balancing Work and Rest

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 25, 2024 35:12


    The holiday season is often filled with joy, but it can also bring unique challenges. How can we find harmony amidst festive celebrations layered onto already busy schedules? In this episode, Drs. Milt Lowder and Cory Shaffer dive into the delicate balance between work and rest during the holidays. They highlight the essential connection between productivity and renewal for achieving peak performance and fulfillment. Whether you're someone who finds it hard to slow down or struggles to reengage, this conversation offers actionable insights and practical strategies to help you strike the right balance and fully embrace the season.

    Episode 308: Balancing Legacy and Innovation - Chris Fay on Leading with Vision and Purpose

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 18, 2024 48:56


    In this episode, Chris Fay, President and CEO of Greenville-based TPM and Founder and CEO of TrebleHook, an architecture, engineering, and construction CRM platform, shares his journey of honoring his father-in-law's legacy—who founded TPM—while driving TPM's future growth. Chris reflects on how past experiences and critical inflection points shape vision and leadership. He highlights the importance of pursuing passion, honoring family history, and leaving your own mark. Discover how intentional vision creates a path for meaningful growth and innovation.

    Episode 307: The Mental Edge Behind Oregon, Georgia, and Clemson's Conference Championship Wins

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 11, 2024 39:40


    Fresh off Oregon, Georgia, and Clemson's college football conference championship victories, Drs. Cory Shaffer, Drew Brannon, and Milt Lowder reflect on the psychological principles that came to life during these defining moments. In this episode, they explore the mental game as an important differentiator and break down the key psychological factors that contributed to each team's success. Discover how mindset, fortitude, and intentional focus helped these championship teams rise to the occasion when it mattered most.

    Episode 306: The Heart of a Champion - Five Markers of Courage

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 4, 2024 29:29


    As the Oregon, Georgia, and Clemson football programs gear up for their conference championship games this weekend, AMPLOS sport psychologists Dr. Drew Brannon (Georgia) and Dr. Cory Shaffer (Oregon) share insights on what it truly means to be courageous. Drawing from their experience with championship-caliber teams, they discuss how to turn fear into a motivator rather than a barrier. This episode highlights five key markers of courage, including staying grounded in your beliefs amidst outside narratives, embracing calculated risks, and seeking honest feedback. Discover how bravery drives extraordinary performance under pressure.

    Episode 305: The Benefits of Gratitude - A Timeless Thanksgiving Reflection

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 27, 2024 26:04


    This Thanksgiving, we're revisiting last year's episode on The Benefits of Gratitude. Join Drs. Milt Lowder, Drew Brannon, Cory Shaffer, and Brian Selman as they dive into the transformative power of gratitude. Discover how practicing gratitude fosters resilience, strengthens relationships, boosts immunity, improves sleep, and enhances well-being in every season. Whether you're tuning in for the first time or revisiting these timeless insights, this episode will encourage you to embrace gratitude and its profound ripple effect on your life and those around you.

    Episode 304: Why Gratitude Changes Everything

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 20, 2024 33:18


    Cultivating gratitude is one of the simplest and most impactful ways to transform your life—and science backs it up. In this episode, Drs. Drew Brannon and Cory Shaffer dispel the myth that gratitude is just a "soft skill" and dive into its substantial, evidence-based benefits. From enhanced mood and heightened awareness to stronger immune systems and deeper social connections, they explore how gratitude rewires the brain and contributes to a happier, healthier you. Discover the difference between "benefit-triggered" gratitude and a general gratitude practice, and learn practical ways to integrate this far-reaching habit into your daily life. Tune in to see how this powerful yet accessible practice can elevate your well-being and unlock lasting improvements in your overall quality of life.

    Episode 303: How to Sustain Success in College Football (and Any Team)

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 13, 2024 33:00


    Join Dr. Drew Brannon, sport psychologist for Georgia football, and Dr. Cory Shaffer, performance coach for Oregon football, as they reflect on the college football season so far and explore the principles of achieving and sustaining peak performance. With the transfer portal and 12-team playoff reshaping the competition, teams have experienced dramatic rises and falls, making for an especially thrilling season. They share essential strategies for building high-performing teams and maintaining lasting success—insights that apply beyond the field to any team or organization.

    Episode 302: Building a Strong Organizational Identity

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 6, 2024 40:01


    What makes your organization unique, enduring, and impactful? In this episode, Dr. Drew Brannon and Clemson PhD student and AMPLOS intern Marlee Johnson discuss the game-changing role of a well-defined organizational identity. Learn how clarity around your organization's core values can boost performance, attract top talent, and foster customer loyalty. Discover five essential elements—leadership, culture, team, structure, and incentives—that are necessary to developing a strong identity, and explore ways to bridge the gap between where you are and where you aspire to be.

    Episode 301: Reflections & Revelations – Behind AMPLOS' Impact in College Football and the Vision for The Growth Project

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 30, 2024 22:31


    In this Q&A session following last week's live 300th episode, Drs. Milt Lowder, Drew Brannon, and Cory Shaffer reflect on pivotal moments from AMPLOS' journey, including their work with college football athletes at Clemson, Georgia, and Oregon. They reveal what brings the most joy in their work—Milt's passion for curiosity, Drew's drive for breakthroughs, and Cory's focus on self-awareness. They also offer advice to their younger selves, share lessons from past failures, and discuss their hopes for the future of The Growth Project.

    Episode 300: Special Live Recording - Leaders You Might Not Know, But Should

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 23, 2024 38:03


    Join us for a special live recording from the ONE building in downtown Greenville, SC, as we celebrated our 300th episode with a live audience! Drs. Milt Lowder, Drew Brannon, and Cory Shaffer reflect on their 7-year journey to 300 episodes and highlight three impactful leaders you might not know, but should: Allyson Felix, the most decorated track and field athlete in history, Jim Elliot, American Christian missionary who became a martyr while attempting to evangelize the Huaorani people of Ecuador, and Harvey Gantt, the first African American student to enroll at Clemson University and former mayor of Charlotte, NC. They reference their stories to illustrate timeless leadership lessons relevant across all industries.

    Episode 299: The Art of Leadership with Dr. Katie Nichols

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 16, 2024 23:20


    In this episode, Dr. Cory Shaffer welcomes back Dr. Katie Nichols, former AMPLOS performance coach and host of The Growth Project, and current Director of Mental Performance at the University of Louisville. As we approach our 300th episode, it feels fitting to bring back Dr. Nichols, who played a vital role in shaping the podcast, to share what she's learned over the past two years—building her team, navigating leadership, and instilling authenticity into the team culture. In addition, they also reflect on their favorite moments from The Growth Project.

    Episode 298: Navigating the Long Game – College Football Week 5 Breakdown

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 9, 2024 39:22


    Dr. Drew Brannon, sport psychologist for Georgia football, and Dr. Cory Shaffer, performance coach for Oregon football, reflect on the current state of the college football season. With Oregon undefeated and Georgia experiencing one loss, they explore the mental toughness needed for the long game – both on and off the field. They dive into the psychology behind staying focused, handling setbacks, and navigating this year's major shifts, including playoff changes, conference realignments, and the removal of divisions. Learn how to stay resilient and keep moving forward, no matter the challenges.

    Episode 297: Special Episode on Hurricane Helene - Weathering the Storm and Uniting Through Uncertainty

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 2, 2024 30:54


    In this special episode, Drs. Milt Lowder and Drew Brannon discuss the profound impact of Hurricane Helene, which left a wake of destruction throughout the Southeast, including our home of Greenville, SC, and how it illustrates the "U-Trifecta"—facing events that are unpredictable, undesirable, and leave us feeling unprepared. From the anxiety and stress of disaster to the importance of being present in pain, they explore how trauma can trigger unity and a charitable response. Tune in as they emphasize the power of community and getting back into the game, even in the face of immense destruction. For more information on power outages, nearby shelters, road conditions, closings, and ways to help those impacted by Hurricane Helene, please visit: SCEMD: https://scemd.org/ NCDPS: https://www.ncdps.gov/our-organization/emergency-management American Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org/

    Episode 296: The Power of Positive Coaching

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 25, 2024 31:44


    Drs. Milt Lowder and Cory Shaffer explore the surprising science behind motivational language and why negative pregame speeches in sports fall flat. Drawing on research, they discuss how coaching from fear or weakness not only undermines performance but also impacts team culture and personal growth. Learn how positive feedback, empathy, and a coach's positive presence can elevate both athletes and employees alike, fostering lasting improvements in performance and well-being. Tune in for lessons that extend far beyond the game.

    Episode 295: How Self-Talk Shapes Your Reality

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 18, 2024 43:39


    Join Dr. Milt Lowder and Clemson University PhD student and AMPLOS intern Marlee Johnson as they explore the transformative power of self-talk. In this episode, they discuss how our inner dialogue shapes our actions, well-being, and emotional responses. Learn when your thoughts work for or against you, and how courage is key to processing negative emotions. This conversation is foundational for building resilience and fostering mental strength.

    Episode 294: Mastering Workplace Conflict - Turning Tension into Team Success

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 11, 2024 39:09


    Join Drs. Drew Brannon and Cory Shaffer as they explore the role of conflict in the workplace. While often seen as negative, they reveal how well-managed conflict can strengthen teams. Discover the four main triggers of organizational conflict and learn practical strategies to navigate the spectrum—from conflict-averse to overly aggressive—toward a balanced approach. Don't let artificial harmony hold your team back; embrace conflict to drive success and deeper relationships at work.

    Episode 293: College Football Week 1 Breakdown for Clemson, Georgia, and Oregon

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 4, 2024 31:56


    Fresh off week 1 of college football, Drs. Milt Lowder, Drew Brannon, and Cory Shaffer, the mental performance experts behind Clemson, Georgia, and Oregon football programs, reflect on the opening games. With Georgia's victory over Clemson and Oregon's win over Idaho, they analyze their teams' performances, discuss how they're navigating early successes and challenges, and share their approach to redefining success and failure. Don't miss their insights as they gear up for Week 2 and the rest of the season.

    Episode 292: Winning Isn't For Everyone

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 28, 2024 36:51


    How far would you go to win? Drs. Drew Brannon and Cory Shaffer explore the nuanced continuum of competition, from glorifying victory to questioning the value of participation trophies. Drawing on Nike's controversial "Winning Isn't For Everyone" Olympic commercial, they discuss whether top-level success demands an edginess and selfishness that borders on villainy. Tune in as they unpack the risks of this mindset, the intricacies of human nature, and how to find balance in the pursuit of excellence.

    Episode 291: Cowgirls Don't Cry with McKee Lowder

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 21, 2024 38:00


    In this heartfelt episode, Dr. Milt Lowder and his daughter, McKee Lowder, engage in what has become a Lowder family tradition: reflecting on McKee's childhood and the lessons learned as she prepares to embark on her journey to Clemson University. They discuss what it means to be your best, always remembering who you are, McKee's goals and dreams for college, and the importance of embracing the unknown. Join them for an emotional conversation filled with wisdom, love, and the excitement of new beginnings.

    Episode 290: Learning to Become a Pro with Olympian Danielle Williams

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 14, 2024 43:57


    Fresh from the 2024 Olympics in Paris, Dr. Cory Shaffer talks with Jamaican track and field star Danielle Williams about the demanding lifestyle of an elite athlete, exploring the highs and lows of Williams' career, including gold-medal wins at the 2015 and 2023 World Championships. Williams shares her insights on navigating failure, cultivating a resilient mindset, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. Tune in to discover the true grit behind her journey.

    Episode 289: The Intersection of Joy and Excellence

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 7, 2024 27:09


    Are you making it easier or harder for those around you to experience joy and strive for excellence? Drs. Milt Lowder and Drew Brannon explore the profound impact of our actions on ourselves and others. They dive deep into the intersection of joy and excellence, revealing how a positive mindset can create a powerful ripple effect. Tune in for insightful discussions and actionable strategies to maximize joy and excellence in every aspect of your life.

    Episode 288: Nurturing Teamwork as a Core Skill with Marlee Johnson

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 31, 2024 30:51


    Join Dr. Cory Shaffer and Clemson University PhD student and AMPLOS intern, Marlee Johnson, as they discuss her research on team dynamics. Discover how viewing teamwork as a skill rather than shifting blame to individuals can transform performance. Learn strategies for involving all team members, regardless of their role, in creating and sustaining a high-performing, "sticky" culture that retains talent long-term.

    Episode 187: Naivety is a Superpower

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 24, 2024 29:14


    Naivety is often seen as a flaw, but in this episode, Drs. Milt Lowder and Drew Brannon reveal how it can be a superpower, sparking wonder, excitement, and curiosity. They discuss how age often erodes this youthful perspective, sharing cautionary tales about the consequences of losing naivety. Learn practical strategies for preserving elements of naivety while simulatenously growing in wisdom, helping you sustain enthusiasm and a sense of wonder in life. Tune in to discover how to balance wisdom with a childlike spirit.

    Episode 286: Thrive Under Pressure

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 17, 2024 52:49


    Using recent sports examples — Rory McIlroy's U.S. Open lead loss and Barbora Krejcikova's comeback win in the Women's Wimbledon Final — Drs. Milt Lowder and Cory Shaffer discuss not succumbing to pressure when the stakes are high. They explore three categories of pressure — physical, mental, and emotional — and share practical tips to help you reframe stress and perform well under pressure. Discover how to thrive when stakes are high.

    Episode 285: Face Fear Fearlessly

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 10, 2024 27:27


    Join Drs. Milt Lowder and Cory Shaffer as they discuss how embracing fear can fuel action, turning potential paralysis into productive paranoia. Learn to drop doubt and harness fear from a position of strength, converting it into confidence, unlocking your potential and propelling you forward. Don't let fear immobilize you — let it empower you. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on being fearless in the face of fear.

    Episode 284: Coaching with Joy - Insights from Coach Alaura Sharp

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2024 50:34


    Join us for an inspiring conversation with Coach Alaura Sharp, former Presbyterian College Women's Basketball head coach and newly appointed head coach at Appalachian State University. Coach Sharp shares her journey in the coaching profession, including leading Presbyterian College to its first NCAA Tournament appearance and win in March 2024, emphasizing the joy of being part of a team and her mindset on program building. Discover her best practices for helping athletes reach their full potential and the importance of the mental game. Learn how to work hard today to achieve fun and success in the future.

    Navigating Family Business with Dr. Ron Reece

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 26, 2024 56:45


    In this episode, Dr. Milt Lowder converses with his mentor, Dr. Ron Reece, a seasoned and esteemed psychologist from Greenville, SC. With decades of experience since 1975, Dr. Reece shares insights on maintaining harmony in family businesses and the importance of controlling one's "inner weather"—the thoughts and self-talk in our heads. Tune in for practical advice and wisdom on balancing personal and professional relationships from an expert dedicated to preventing businesses from destroying people and vice versa.

    Episode 282: Mid-Year Goal Reflection

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 19, 2024 32:12


    How are you progressing toward your 2024 goals? Nearly midway through the year, Drs. Milt Lowder and Cory Shaffer reflect on the importance of reviewing your progress six months into the year. They discuss the significance of pausing, taking inventory, and creating clarity about who you want to be and how you plan to achieve your goals. Don't be a passive passenger in life; take the wheel and steer towards a clear, purposeful direction.

    Episode 281: Bridging the Gap - Overcoming Inaction and Excuses

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 12, 2024 35:54


    Drs. Drew Brannon and Cory Shaffer discuss the gap between awareness and action — the space where many find themselves stuck when attempting to accomplish a goal. They explore why defensiveness and excuses keep us from moving forward. Learn common reasons for falling into this trap and gain practical tips to bridge the gap, turning intention into action. Tune in to discover how to overcome inertia and achieve your goals.

    Claim The Growth Project

    In order to claim this podcast we'll send an email to with a verification link. Simply click the link and you will be able to edit tags, request a refresh, and other features to take control of your podcast page!

    Claim Cancel