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What does it actually mean to matter?In this solo episode, I'm diving into a topic that has been occupying my mind for years and has become a central part of my research, workshops, and the book I'm writing: mattering.Mattering is more than belonging. It's more than self-esteem. It's the lived experience of both adding value and feeling valued — to yourself, in your relationships, at work, and in your broader community. And when one of those pieces is missing, achievement can start to feel hollow.This episode is an invitation to look at your own goals, your own striving, and your own relationships with more curiosity. Where do you genuinely feel like you matter? Where does your mattering feel conditional? And where might you be trying to earn recognition from people or places that may never be able to give it?I'm with you on this journey of personal growth, adventure, and our mission to be better every day.Learn more and follow my work:Substack: sonyalooney.substack.comNewsletter: sonyalooney.com/newsletter--------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.
We are the kind of creature that cares whether or not we matter and how. What follows from this? Rebecca Newberger Goldstein, author of Mattering, discuses this with David Edmonds.
Klug anlegen - Der Podcast zur Geldanlage mit Karl Matthäus Schmidt.
Geld macht zwar nicht automatisch glücklich, aber es besteht ein elementarer Zusammenhang zwischen dem Ersparten und Glücksgefühlen. Daraus sollte man in der modernen Bankberatung unbedingt die richtigen Schlüsse ziehen. Deswegen tauchen wir in unserer aktuellen Podcast-Folge an dieser Stelle tiefer ein, speziell mit Blick auf den Ruhestand. Karl Matthäus Schmidt, Vorstandsvorsitzender der Quirin Privatbank und quirion-Gründer, stellt dieses Mal die Fragen. Für die spannenden Einsichten ist Julia Blaschke zuständig. Sie ist Vermögensberaterin und gleichzeitig Glückscoach, also eine ausgewiesene Expertin. Julia beantwortet folgende Fragen von Karl: Wie genau sieht die glückliche Doppelrolle von Julia Blaschke aus? (01:45) Warum wird Geldanlage und Glück so oft getrennt betrachtet? (02:54) Was steckt in diesem Zusammenhang hinter dem sogenannten PERMA-Modell? (04:17) Warum ist der Ruhestand ein besonders kritischer psychologischer Moment? (06:17) Gibt es Beispiele für Kunden, die finanziell alles richtig gemacht haben, aber dennoch unglücklich sind zu Beginn des Ruhestands? (07:38) Was genau ist mit „positive Emotionen“ gemeint, wenn man das in der Ruhestandsphase psychologisch etwas tiefer betrachtet? (08:49) Ist der Gedanke vom „kleinen Glück“ nicht etwas zu einfach? (11:05) Wie hängen Emotionen und Geld zusammen? (12:43) Warum gibt es große Unterschiede beim Thema Engagement im Ruhestand? (14:25) Wie findet man echtes Engagement im Ruhestand? (16:24) Ist Beziehungspflege im Ruhestand nicht eine Selbstverständlichkeit? (17:24) Was kann man im Bereich der Beziehungen finanziell klug planen? (19:15) Sind Sinn- und Zweckfragen wirklich relevant für jemanden, der einfach nur in Rente gehen möchte? (20:25) Wie hilft man Menschen das „Gebrauchtwerden“ im Ruhestand zu finden? (23:13) Was ist und Thema Ziele und Erfolge im Ruhestand zu beachten? (24:42) Was sind die häufigsten Fehler auf dem Weg in den Ruhestand? (26:12) Was hält Julia Blaschke für den wichtigsten Aspekt im Kontext von Geld und Glück im Ruhestand? (28:21) Gut zu wissen Ab einem bestimmten Einkommensniveau macht mehr Geld allein nicht mehr glücklicher. Was wirklich zählt, sind Autonomie, tiefe Beziehungen, Sinn. Die meisten Menschen planen jahrelang finanziell für den Ruhestand – aber die psychologische Seite wird häufig übersehen. Positive Emotionen sind insbesondere auch im Ruhestand wichtig und man kann sie kultivieren. Kleine Glücksmomente lassen sich im Ruhestand besser bemerken als zu Arbeitszeiten. Echtes Engagement versüßt den Ruhestand – Leidenschaften sollten also gepflegt werden. Mit dem Beruf verlieren die meisten Menschen schlagartig 60 bis 70 % ihrer sozialen Kontakte – Geld sollte also auch für Beziehungspflege eingeplant werden. Ein erfüllter Ruhestand ist oft eng verknüpft mit dem „Gebrauchtwerden“ und der Erreichung selbstgesteckter Ziele. Glück im Ruhestand passiert nicht einfach so – es ist das Ergebnis bewusster Entscheidungen – am besten frühzeitiger. Menschen sollten ihr Geld im Dienst ihres Glücks einsetzen – nicht umgekehrt. Folgenempfehlung: Folge 251 unseres Podcast mit dem Titel: „Was haben Wünsche und Träume mit Finanzen zu tun?“ (01:45) Wie genau sieht die glückliche Doppelrolle von Julia Blaschke aus? (01:45) (02:54) Warum wird Geldanlage und Glück so oft getrennt betrachtet? (02:54) (04:17) Was steckt in diesem Zusammenhang hinter dem sogenannten PERMA-Modell? (04:17) (06:17) Warum ist der Ruhestand ein besonders kritischer psychologischer Moment? (06:17) (07:38) Gibt es Beispiele für Kunden, die finanziell alles richtig gemacht haben, aber dennoch unglücklich sind zu Beginn des Ruhestands? (07:38) (08:49) Was genau ist mit „positive Emotionen“ gemeint, wenn man das in der Ruhestandsphase psychologisch etwas tiefer betrachtet? (08:49) (11:05) Ist der Gedanke vom „kleinen Glück“ nicht etwas zu einfach? (11:05) (12:43) Wie hängen Emotionen und Geld zusammen? (12:43) (14:25) Warum gibt es große Unterschiede beim Thema Engagement im Ruhestand? (14:25) (16:24) Wie findet man echtes Engagement im Ruhestand? (16:24) (17:24) Ist Beziehungspflege im Ruhestand nicht eine Selbstverständlichkeit? (17:24) (20:25) Sind Sinn- und Zweckfragen wirklich relevant für jemanden, der einfach nur in Rente gehen möchte? (20:25) (23:13) Wie hilft man Menschen das „Gebrauchtwerden“ im Ruhestand zu finden? (23:13) (24:42) Was ist und Thema Ziele und Erfolge im Ruhestand zu beachten? (24:42) (26:12) Was sind die häufigsten Fehler auf dem Weg in den Ruhestand? (26:12) (28:21) Was hält Julia Blaschke für den wichtigsten Aspekt im Kontext von Geld und Glück im Ruhestand? (28:21)
What if the real value of achievement isn't what it proves about us, but how it contributes to others? In this episode, I sit down with bestselling author, researcher, and publisher Tom Rath. Tom is known for books like How Full Is Your Bucket?, StrengthsFinder 2.0, Strengths-Based Leadership, and Eat, Move, Sleep. His work has shaped how millions of people think about strengths, well-being, purpose, and the way we spend our days.We talk about the difference between purpose and passion, why strengths only matter when they are used in service of others, how to think about career fit, and why retirement may not be the goal we've been taught it is. We also explore the role of AI in the future of work, and how it might free us to spend more time on the creative, relational, and meaningful parts of our lives.This episode is for anyone who wants to keep striving, but in a way that feels more grounded, sustainable, and connected to what really matters.Top 5 TakeawaysAchievement feels different when it is connected to contributionPurpose is not the same as passionStrengths need directionWell-being and performance are connectedAI may change how we work, but it can also create opportunityLINKS- Learn more about Tom- Read Tom's new book Life's Great Question: Discover How You Contribute To The World- Finding Meaningful Work with Tamara Myles and Wes Adams- Meaning and Mattering at Work with Andrew Soren--------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.
Você vale pelo que produz ou pelo impacto que causa na vida dos outros?Nesta edição do Economia & Negócios, Patricia Chaccur e José Inácio Pilar discutem o "Mattering" e Saúde Social.Entenda como o desejo profundo de importar para alguém, seja na família, nos negócios ou com clientes, impacta nosso bem-estar, saúde social e conheça o caso real que inspirou Nicole Kidman.Em O Antagonista, você encontra um jornalismo de investigação, com análises precisas e opiniões sem concessões. Acompanhamos de perto os bastidores da política, da economia e as principais notícias do Brasil e do Mundo. Aqui, você confere na íntegra nossos programas: Papo Antagonista, com Madeleine Lacsko; Meio Dia em Brasília, com José Inácio Pilar e Wilson Lima; Narrativas, Café Antagonista, LadOA! e o Podcast OA!, com convidados influentes em diversas áreas. Se você busca informação com credibilidade, inscreva-se agora para não perder nenhuma atualização!
In Part 2 of this powerful conversation, Amanda Laramie sits down with leadership researcher and author Zach Mercurio, PhD, to explore how leaders can create workplaces where people truly feel seen, valued, and connected.Zach shares practical, everyday ways leaders can apply the principles of mattering — not through grand gestures, but through intentional interactions that build trust, belonging, and purpose within teams.Together, they discuss how meaningful leadership impacts engagement, retention, resilience, and organizational culture.Whether you lead a team, support patients, manage operations, or influence workplace culture, this episode offers actionable insights you can immediately apply to strengthen relationships and help people thrive personally and professionally.Zach Mercurio is an author, researcher, and speaker specializing in purposeful leadership, meaningful work, and mattering. His work focuses on helping organizations create cultures where people feel valued and connected so they can thrive personally and professionally.In This Episode:What “mattering” really means in leadershipWhy small moments of acknowledgment have a lasting impactPractical ways leaders can help employees feel valuedHow connection influences performance and well-beingBuilding cultures where people thriveGuest: Zach MercurioHost: Amanda LaramieThanks for listening! Check us out on: FacebookInstagramLinkedInOur WebsiteTikTokTwitterYouTube
Are we underestimating our capacity for social change?...Today, Abbie and Karen discuss quanta, entanglement, and collapsing potential as they explore mattering and social change....Karen O'Brien is a Professor of Human Geography at the University of Oslo, Norway. She is also co-founder of cCHANGE, an organisation that supports deep and strategic engagement with transformations to sustainability. Her research on the human and social dimensions of environmental change emphasises integrative approaches, including how beliefs, values, worldviews, and paradigms influence systems change and social change. She is particularly interested in the relationship between adaptation and transformations to sustainability and in exploring how quantum social science can inform how we understand, engage with, and scale transformative change. In 2021, she was co-recipient of the BBVA Foundation's Frontiers of Knowledge Award for Climate Change. Karen's recent books include You Matter More Than You Think: Quantum Social Change for a Thriving World and Climate and Society: Transforming the Future (with Robin Leichenko). She has participated in four IPCC reports and is currently co-chair of the International Science-Policy Platform for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) transformative change assessment. She also writes a weekly newsletter on quantum social change....Stories Lived. Stories Told. is created, produced & hosted by Abbie VanMeter.Stories Lived. Stories Told. is an initiative of the CMM Institute for Personal and Social Evolution....Music for Stories Lived. Stories Told. is created by Rik Spann....CMM Institute SubstackCMM Institute Events Page…Explore all things Stories Lived. Stories Told. here.Explore all things CMM Institute here.
Jennifer Wallace joins the podcast to explore a powerful but often overlooked foundation of mental health and resilience: the human need to feel like we matter. While so much of parenting focuses on what we do for our kids, this conversation invites us to look inward, because a child's sense of mattering is deeply shaped by how much their parents feel valued, seen, and significant in their own lives. Drawing from research and real-life stories, we unpack why so many adults today feel invisible, overwhelmed, or defined by achievement, and how that shapes the way we show up in our relationships with our children. Together we explore: - What it actually means to "matter" and why it's different from self-esteem or a sense of purpose. - Why parents today are at risk of feeling like they don't matter, and how that impacts their kids. - The connection between mattering, anxiety, burnout, and loneliness. - A simple framework for building deeper, more meaningful relationships. - Why "delight" is a critical ingredient in helping children feel secure and valued. - How to model a healthy sense of self so your child doesn't feel pressure to be your "everything." - Practical ways to help kids both feel valued and add value in their families and communities. - How showing others they matter can actually be the fastest way to feel like you matter too. This conversation is a reminder that parenting doesn't happen in a vacuum. When we feel grounded in our own worth, supported by meaningful relationships and a sense of connection, we create the conditions for our children to internalize that same belief: you matter, just as you are. LEARN MORE ABOUT MY GUEST:
#FenceFam What is it with today and how society functions? Why are the details slipping through the cracks? Not just fence, but every trade, business, line of work? Don't let it happen to you and your company!!! Listen to me talk about how we solve these issues internally to stay ahead of the pack!!! Cheers! Remember to like, share, comment and REVIEW! The Fence Industry Podcast Links: IG @TheFenceIndustryPodcast FB @TheFenceIndustryPodcastWithDanWheeler TikTok @TheFenceIndustryPodcast YouTube @TheFenceIndustryPodcastWithDanWheeler Visit TheFenceIndustryPodcast.com Email TheFenceIndustryPodcast@gmail.com Central Fence Supply: Visit centralfencesupply.com Gopherwood & Expert Stain and Seal IG @stainandsealexperts FB @ExpertProfessionalWoodCare YouTube @Stain&SealExperts FB Group Stain and Seal Expert's Staining University Visit RealGoodStain.com Visit Gopherwood.us Log Cabin Fence IG @Log_Cabin_Fence FB @LogCabinFence Visit LogCabinFence.com Elite Technique Visit https://www.getelitetechnique.com/ Greenwood Fence Visit https://greenwoodfence.com/ Ozark Fence & Supply promo code: TFIP15 for 15% off! Visit https://www.ozfence.com/ Benji with Clever Fox for all your FENCE website, SEO & marketing needs! Visit https://www.cleverfox.online/ Stockade Staple Guns Visit https://www.stockade.com/us/ mySalesman Visit mySalesman.com Orlando Hinge Company Visit swanhinge.com The Fence Industry Podcast is Produced by CleverFox.Online https://www.cleverfox.online/
20 years ago, Bo Burlingham gave a name to a feeling a lot of business owners had struggled to articulate. In his book Small Giants, Bo profiled companies that had chosen not to chase growth at all costs. Most were bootstrapped, owner-operated businesses that cared less about getting big than about building something enduring, meaningful, and excellent. They weren't anti-growth. They just wanted growth to be intentional. And for many owners who read the book, the reaction was immediate: “I thought I was the only one who felt this way.” Out of that recognition grew a community—and eventually an organization—led in large part by Paul Spiegelman, whose own company embodied the Small Giants philosophy. With Bo's encouragement, Paul launched the Small Giants organization 15 years ago to connect owners trying to build great companies without sacrificing culture, independence, or quality of life.At our recent 21 Hats Live gathering in Cincinnati, we explored where that movement goes next in a Brainstorm session with Jean Moncrieff, who took over leadership of the Small Giants organization last year. Jean—who's from South Africa, lives in Zurich, but is moving to the U.S.—brings both momentum and candor to the role. He recently led his first Small Giants Summit in Detroit, which attendees—including me—praised for its renewed energy and sense of purpose. He's also the author of a terrific new book, Finding Freedom: The Business Owner's Guide to Building a Valuable Company and a Meaningful Life. But as you'll hear, Jean recognizes there are challenges ahead.What exactly is Small Giants today? Who is it for? What makes it different from the many other organizations competing for the attention of business owners? Does it need a more formal set of principles—or even an operating system—to help companies put its philosophy into practice? Can it stay true to its founding mission while also attracting businesses large enough to support its events and programs? Ultimately, the conversation arrives at a tension at the heart of the enterprise: Can the Small Giants organization itself become a sustainable, profitable business without losing the values it was created to protect? In other words, can Small Giants become a true small giant?Show Notes:The organizations discussed in this episode include: The Great Game of Business, the Tugboat Institute, and EOS Worldwide.The books discussed in this episode include: Finding Freedom by Jean Moncrieff, Small Giants by Bo Burlingham, Another Way by Dave Whorton with Bo Burlingham, The Great Game of Business by Jack Stack and Bo Burlingham, The Power of Mattering by Zach Mercurio, and Profit First by Mike Michalowicz.The businesses discussed in this episode include: Smiley Technologies, ITR Economics, Zingerman's Community of Businesses, Text-Em-All, Tasty Catering, Venturity, ImageOne, and Atomic Object.
Sometimes we convince ourselves a relationship is over when really we've just stopped reaching toward it. Then something fragile happens, and suddenly the need to be right gives way to something much more important: deep care. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Jennifer Wallace shares about her book, Mattering: The Secret to a Life of Deep Connection and Purpose on episode 622 of the Teaching in Higher Ed podcast. Quotes from the episode Mattering says you belong at the table, but it goes even further, and it says you would be missed if you weren’t here. You are adding value, and we would notice if you weren’t here. -Jennifer Wallace We have so much input and so much output being demanded of us today that often we go through life on autopilot. -Jennifer Wallace Mattering is not another thing to add to your to-do list. Mattering is a way of looking at your to-do list. -Jennifer Wallace When you look at the data on what drives performance, it is engagement. And what drives engagement is mattering. -Jennifer Wallace Resources Mattering: The Secret to a Life of Deep Connection and Purpose, by Jennifer Wallace Never Enough: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic—and What We Can Do About It, by Jennifer Wallace Bowling Alone: The Collapse and Revival of American Community, by Robert D. Putnam Jennifer Wallace’s Website Mattering Movement Gallup-Purdue Index Report Nancy Schlossberg's Transition Theory World Spins Madly On WeRateDogs – This is Sadie. Sign up to be a Mattering Ambassador
What makes people feel valued at work? Why do some teams thrive even under pressure, while others struggle with burnout, disengagement, and turnover?In Part 1 of this episode of the Coleman Associates Innovation Podcast, Amanda sits down with author, researcher, and speaker Zach Mercurio to explore one of the most important — and often overlooked — drivers of workplace performance and wellbeing: mattering.Zach Mercurio, author of The Power of Mattering, shares the research behind why people need to feel seen, valued, and essential to do their best work. Together, Amanda and Zach unpack how leaders shape culture through everyday interactions — especially in fast-paced healthcare environments where stress, overwhelm, and constant demands can easily crowd out meaningful connection.This conversation dives into:What “mattering” actually means in the workplaceWhy feeling valued impacts engagement, retention, and performanceHow leaders unintentionally create disconnectionThe difference between recognition and truly helping people feel seenHow healthcare leaders can lead with greater intention during difficult seasonsWhether you're leading a clinic, managing a frontline team, or simply trying to create a healthier work culture, this episode offers practical insights and powerful reminders about the human side of leadership.Zach Mercurio, PhD, is an author, researcher, and speaker specializing in purposeful leadership, meaningful work, and mattering. His work focuses on helping organizations create cultures where people feel valued and connected so they can thrive personally and professionally.And don't miss Part 2 of this conversation up next, where Zach shares practical ways leaders can apply the principles of mattering in everyday interactions with their teams.Guest: Amanda LaramieHost: Zach Mecurio Thanks for listening! If you or someone you know should be interviewed for this show, send us an email. Check us out on: FacebookInstagramLinkedInOur WebsiteTikTokTwitterYouTube
Psychologists Off The Clock: A Psychology Podcast About The Science And Practice Of Living Well
Modern life has become a gauntlet of "dangerous weather" that frequently strips away our most basic human needs.In this episode, Emily speaks with author and strategist Stephanie Malia Kraus about her book, How We Thrive, and the essential practice of "rehumaning." Stephanie breaks down the four systemic forces, from hustle culture to addictive tech, that undermine our well-being and offers a roadmap for reclaiming play, wonder, and rest. The discussion bridges the gap between ancient Hawaiian wayfinding and modern neuroscience, highlighting the critical importance of restorative "downstates" and simple regulation tools for navigating an increasingly overstimulated world.Listen and Learn:How the Hawaiian tradition of Wayfinding teaches us to navigate a world that has "shifted on its axis" by anchoring into timeless human essentials, and influenced Stephanie's bookWhy the friction you feel in parenting isn't a personal failure, but a biological mismatch between our human nature and modern society Recognizing the four universal forces: Overtapped, Overworked, Overstimulated, and Overwrought, and understanding why feeling depleted isn't a personal failure, but a natural response to the "stormy" conditions of modern living Why our modern "social jet lag", the mismatch between our hectic schedules and our biological needs, is fueling a youth mental health crisis, and how reclaiming "human essentials" like sleep, play, and internal attunement can act as a biological superpower for both parents and teens How the practices of celebrating small wins, contributing to others, and nurturing an inborn sense of belief act as biological shields that restore our dignity and spark a protective sense of hope even in the most difficult seasons of life How "lemon squeezes", a simple technique of tensing and releasing your muscles for 20 seconds, uses the science of progressive muscle relaxation to signal safety to your nervous system and bring your body back into balance in less than a minute Resources:How We Thrive: Caring for Kids and Ourselves in a Changing World https://bookshop.org/a/30734/9781071957561 https://rehumaningourlives.substack.com/https://www.rehumaning.com/Connect with Stephanie on Social Media: https://www.youtube.com/@StephanieMaliaKrausshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/stephaniemaliakrauss/https://www.instagram.com/stephaniemaliakrauss/ About Stephanie Malia KraussStephanie Malia Krauss is an author, speaker, and strategist focused on rehumaning childhood and our lives. Her newest book, How We Thrive, explores the urgent need to protect human essentials—like sleep, play, and connection—that modern life diminishes or denies. An educator and social worker who has worked from the classroom to Congress, Stephanie now advises states, districts, and national organizations on holistic approaches to preparing and caring for kids. Stephanie is the bestselling author of Whole Child, Whole Life: 10 Ways to Help Kids Live, Learn, and Thrive and Making It: What Today's Kids Need for Tomorrow's World. Her work has been featured by Newsweek, PBS NewsHour, Parents, and more.Related Episodes:455. The New Blueprint for Success with Ana Homayoun444. Mattering with Jennifer Wallace433. Rethinking Screens and Video Games with Ash Brandin424. Modern Anxiety with Noelle McWard Aquino414. The Disengaged Teen with Jenny Anderson and Rebecca Winthrop409. Raising Terrific Kids in Terrifying Times with Melinda Wenner Moyer324. Toxic Achievement Culture with Jennifer WallaceSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
MacArthur Fellow and National Humanities Medalist Rebecca Newberger Goldstein, author of Plato at the Googleplex and The Mind-Body Problem, returns with a revelatory book about the primal drive that in our species alone has been transformed into one of our most persistent and universal motivations: the longing to matter. Drawing on biology, psychology, and philosophy, in The Mattering Instinct: How Our Deepest Longing Drives Us and Divides Us (Liveright Publishing, 2026) Goldstein argues that this need to matter―and the various “mattering projects” it inspires―is the source of our greatest progress and our deepest conflicts: the very crux of the human experience.Goldstein brings this profound idea to life through unforgettable stories of famous and not-so-famous people pursuing their unique mattering projects: the ragtime genius Scott Joplin, whose dedication to his ignored masterpiece, Treemonisha, ended in tragedy; the pioneering psychologist William James, who rose above the depression of his young adulthood to become perhaps the first great theorist of mattering; an impoverished Chinese woman who rescued abandoned newborns from the trash; and a neo-Nazi skinhead who as a young man dealt racial violence to feel he mattered but ultimately renounced that hateful past after realizing that mattering isn't a zero-sum game. These portraits illuminate how our instinct for significance shapes identity, relationships, culture, and conflict―and they point the way to a future where we all might see that there is, fundamentally, enough mattering to go around.Deeply revealing and insightful, and decades in the making, The Mattering Instinct is a must read for those curious about why we seek to matter to ourselves and others―and how this insatiable longing that drives us apart may be the key to finally understanding each other. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network
MacArthur Fellow and National Humanities Medalist Rebecca Newberger Goldstein, author of Plato at the Googleplex and The Mind-Body Problem, returns with a revelatory book about the primal drive that in our species alone has been transformed into one of our most persistent and universal motivations: the longing to matter. Drawing on biology, psychology, and philosophy, in The Mattering Instinct: How Our Deepest Longing Drives Us and Divides Us (Liveright Publishing, 2026) Goldstein argues that this need to matter―and the various “mattering projects” it inspires―is the source of our greatest progress and our deepest conflicts: the very crux of the human experience.Goldstein brings this profound idea to life through unforgettable stories of famous and not-so-famous people pursuing their unique mattering projects: the ragtime genius Scott Joplin, whose dedication to his ignored masterpiece, Treemonisha, ended in tragedy; the pioneering psychologist William James, who rose above the depression of his young adulthood to become perhaps the first great theorist of mattering; an impoverished Chinese woman who rescued abandoned newborns from the trash; and a neo-Nazi skinhead who as a young man dealt racial violence to feel he mattered but ultimately renounced that hateful past after realizing that mattering isn't a zero-sum game. These portraits illuminate how our instinct for significance shapes identity, relationships, culture, and conflict―and they point the way to a future where we all might see that there is, fundamentally, enough mattering to go around.Deeply revealing and insightful, and decades in the making, The Mattering Instinct is a must read for those curious about why we seek to matter to ourselves and others―and how this insatiable longing that drives us apart may be the key to finally understanding each other. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/critical-theory
MacArthur Fellow and National Humanities Medalist Rebecca Newberger Goldstein, author of Plato at the Googleplex and The Mind-Body Problem, returns with a revelatory book about the primal drive that in our species alone has been transformed into one of our most persistent and universal motivations: the longing to matter. Drawing on biology, psychology, and philosophy, in The Mattering Instinct: How Our Deepest Longing Drives Us and Divides Us (Liveright Publishing, 2026) Goldstein argues that this need to matter―and the various “mattering projects” it inspires―is the source of our greatest progress and our deepest conflicts: the very crux of the human experience.Goldstein brings this profound idea to life through unforgettable stories of famous and not-so-famous people pursuing their unique mattering projects: the ragtime genius Scott Joplin, whose dedication to his ignored masterpiece, Treemonisha, ended in tragedy; the pioneering psychologist William James, who rose above the depression of his young adulthood to become perhaps the first great theorist of mattering; an impoverished Chinese woman who rescued abandoned newborns from the trash; and a neo-Nazi skinhead who as a young man dealt racial violence to feel he mattered but ultimately renounced that hateful past after realizing that mattering isn't a zero-sum game. These portraits illuminate how our instinct for significance shapes identity, relationships, culture, and conflict―and they point the way to a future where we all might see that there is, fundamentally, enough mattering to go around.Deeply revealing and insightful, and decades in the making, The Mattering Instinct is a must read for those curious about why we seek to matter to ourselves and others―and how this insatiable longing that drives us apart may be the key to finally understanding each other. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/psychology
MacArthur Fellow and National Humanities Medalist Rebecca Newberger Goldstein, author of Plato at the Googleplex and The Mind-Body Problem, returns with a revelatory book about the primal drive that in our species alone has been transformed into one of our most persistent and universal motivations: the longing to matter. Drawing on biology, psychology, and philosophy, in The Mattering Instinct: How Our Deepest Longing Drives Us and Divides Us (Liveright Publishing, 2026) Goldstein argues that this need to matter―and the various “mattering projects” it inspires―is the source of our greatest progress and our deepest conflicts: the very crux of the human experience.Goldstein brings this profound idea to life through unforgettable stories of famous and not-so-famous people pursuing their unique mattering projects: the ragtime genius Scott Joplin, whose dedication to his ignored masterpiece, Treemonisha, ended in tragedy; the pioneering psychologist William James, who rose above the depression of his young adulthood to become perhaps the first great theorist of mattering; an impoverished Chinese woman who rescued abandoned newborns from the trash; and a neo-Nazi skinhead who as a young man dealt racial violence to feel he mattered but ultimately renounced that hateful past after realizing that mattering isn't a zero-sum game. These portraits illuminate how our instinct for significance shapes identity, relationships, culture, and conflict―and they point the way to a future where we all might see that there is, fundamentally, enough mattering to go around.Deeply revealing and insightful, and decades in the making, The Mattering Instinct is a must read for those curious about why we seek to matter to ourselves and others―and how this insatiable longing that drives us apart may be the key to finally understanding each other. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
MacArthur Fellow and National Humanities Medalist Rebecca Newberger Goldstein, author of Plato at the Googleplex and The Mind-Body Problem, returns with a revelatory book about the primal drive that in our species alone has been transformed into one of our most persistent and universal motivations: the longing to matter. Drawing on biology, psychology, and philosophy, in The Mattering Instinct: How Our Deepest Longing Drives Us and Divides Us (Liveright Publishing, 2026) Goldstein argues that this need to matter―and the various “mattering projects” it inspires―is the source of our greatest progress and our deepest conflicts: the very crux of the human experience.Goldstein brings this profound idea to life through unforgettable stories of famous and not-so-famous people pursuing their unique mattering projects: the ragtime genius Scott Joplin, whose dedication to his ignored masterpiece, Treemonisha, ended in tragedy; the pioneering psychologist William James, who rose above the depression of his young adulthood to become perhaps the first great theorist of mattering; an impoverished Chinese woman who rescued abandoned newborns from the trash; and a neo-Nazi skinhead who as a young man dealt racial violence to feel he mattered but ultimately renounced that hateful past after realizing that mattering isn't a zero-sum game. These portraits illuminate how our instinct for significance shapes identity, relationships, culture, and conflict―and they point the way to a future where we all might see that there is, fundamentally, enough mattering to go around.Deeply revealing and insightful, and decades in the making, The Mattering Instinct is a must read for those curious about why we seek to matter to ourselves and others―and how this insatiable longing that drives us apart may be the key to finally understanding each other. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/van-leer-institute
MacArthur Fellow and National Humanities Medalist Rebecca Newberger Goldstein, author of Plato at the Googleplex and The Mind-Body Problem, returns with a revelatory book about the primal drive that in our species alone has been transformed into one of our most persistent and universal motivations: the longing to matter. Drawing on biology, psychology, and philosophy, in The Mattering Instinct: How Our Deepest Longing Drives Us and Divides Us (Liveright Publishing, 2026) Goldstein argues that this need to matter―and the various “mattering projects” it inspires―is the source of our greatest progress and our deepest conflicts: the very crux of the human experience.Goldstein brings this profound idea to life through unforgettable stories of famous and not-so-famous people pursuing their unique mattering projects: the ragtime genius Scott Joplin, whose dedication to his ignored masterpiece, Treemonisha, ended in tragedy; the pioneering psychologist William James, who rose above the depression of his young adulthood to become perhaps the first great theorist of mattering; an impoverished Chinese woman who rescued abandoned newborns from the trash; and a neo-Nazi skinhead who as a young man dealt racial violence to feel he mattered but ultimately renounced that hateful past after realizing that mattering isn't a zero-sum game. These portraits illuminate how our instinct for significance shapes identity, relationships, culture, and conflict―and they point the way to a future where we all might see that there is, fundamentally, enough mattering to go around.Deeply revealing and insightful, and decades in the making, The Mattering Instinct is a must read for those curious about why we seek to matter to ourselves and others―and how this insatiable longing that drives us apart may be the key to finally understanding each other. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/popular-culture
In this episode, we tackle one of the most common questions in the firearms community: when does gear stop mattering? Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned competitor, it is easy to fall into the trap of believing that a high-end holster, optic, or custom pistol will instantly transform you into a professional shooter. We break down the reality behind the gear hype and explain why your fundamentals and skills matter far more than the price tag on your equipment. Through relatable analogies—from woodworking tools to scuba diving—Roy and Brent reveal the psychology behind manufacturers' "good, better, best" pricing models and why the middle-tier option is usually the sweet spot for the average, everyday shooter. We also share our personal rules for upgrading gear, including the vital piece of advice: always spend more than you want to, but never less than you should. Tune in to learn how to make smarter purchasing decisions and avoid a closet full of expensive, unused shooting accessories. If you are ready to stop buying gear you don't need and start focusing on becoming a better marksman, this episode is a must-watch. Be sure to hit that subscribe button, leave a comment with your own gear-buying experiences, and check out the links below for more expert firearm tips and reviews! Key Takeaways · Buying expensive, high-end gear will not automatically make a beginner a better shooter; fundamental skills are the true foundation. · Entry-level equipment is essential for learning the basics before upgrading to precision tools. · When deciding to upgrade your gear, implement a 'cooling off' period—do not buy it on the first day you see it. · Avoid purchasing the absolute cheapest options on the market, as they usually lack reliability and lead to buyer's remorse. · The 'sweet spot' for most normal shooters lies in mid-range gear, which provides the best balance of performance and value. · Manufacturers purposefully structure their products in a 'good, better, best' pricing tier to encourage upsells and comprehensive kits. · Having more gear does not equate to being a better shooter; focus on training with what you already own to gain real proficiency. --- Have a topic idea or a guest you'd like to see in a future episode? Let us know in the comments or email editor@gunspodcast.us Never miss an episode! Subscribe to our YouTube channel or sign up for our newsletter to get the Guns Podcast delivered straight to your inbox each week. Buy our Merch! Visit Gunspodcast.us
In this episode, I'm joined by the fantastic Jennifer Breheny Wallace - award-winning journalist, researcher, and author of Mattering: The Secret to a Life of Deep Connection and Purpose. We explore what it truly means to matter and how so many of us have been taught to seek validation instead of creating real connection. Jennifer shares powerful insights into why loneliness is rising, how hyper-independence is quietly disconnecting us, and what we can do to rebuild a sense of belonging and purpose in our lives. If you've been craving deeper connection, more meaning, or a stronger sense of your place in the world, this conversation will feel grounding, reassuring, and incredibly relevant. We talk about: The difference between seeking validation and genuinely adding value to others Why hyper-independence is leaving us lonely and what we actually need How to apply "mattering" to add connection and purpose to your life Where your real power lies when the world around you keeps changing Where to find Jennifer: Website: https://www.jenniferbwallace.com/ Instagram: @jenniferbrehenywallace Book: Mattering: https://amzn.to/3JAjpXV
Eine innige Beziehung zwischen Geisel und Entführer kommt uns heute komisch vor. Im 19. Jahrhundert hingegen schien das ganz normal. Wie kam es zu diesem Wandel? Ein Vortrag der Historikerin Juliane Hornung.Juliane Hornung ist Historikerin an der Universität Köln und aktuell Fellow am Historischen Kolleg in München. Ihren Vortrag "'Liebe' in Gefangenschaft, oder: Warum das Stockholm Syndrom in den 1970er- und nicht in den 1870er-Jahren erfunden wurde" hielt sie am 16. März 2026 am Historischen Kolleg in München.**********+++ Stockholm Syndrom +++ Entführung +++ Geiseln +++ Entführer +++ Beziehung +++ Liebe +++ Handlungsmacht +++ Entführungsmemoiren +++ Geiselnahme +++ Polizei +++ Terrorismus +++ Geiseldrama +++ Geschichte +++ Psychiatrie +++ Psychologie +++ Sexismus +++ Sexualisierung +++ Deutschlandfunk Nova +++ Hörsaal**********In dieser Folge mit: Moderation: Nina Bust-Bartels Vortragende: Juliane Hornung, Historikerin, Universität Köln**********Weitere Vorträge vom Historischen Kolleg in München im Hörsaal:Südafrika: Wie Deutschland die Apartheid verklärteOral History: Die Geschichte des Heavy MetalNordamerika: Drei ungewöhnliche Migrationsgeschichten im 18. Jahrhundert**********Ihr hört in diesem Hörsaal:2:11 - Geiselnahme in Stockholm9:45 - Struktur des Vortrags10:50 - Beziehung zwischen Geisel und Entführer im 19. Jhd.27:17 - Die Erfindung des Stockholm Syndroms37:48 - Fazit**********Quellen aus der Folge:Im Vortrag zitierter Spielfilm: The Wind And The Lion**********Mehr zum Thema bei Deutschlandfunk Nova:Psychologie: Wie wir unsere Persönlichkeit verändern könnenPsychologie: Stress macht aggressiv und großzügigDas Gefühl, wichtig zu sein: Mattering ist für unser Wohlbefinden essenziell**********Den Artikel zum Stück findet ihr hier.**********Ihr könnt uns auch auf diesen Kanälen folgen: TikTok und Instagram .
A talk from the 2026 Mockingbird Conference in NYC, Wow to the Deadness: Wonder for the Weary. April 25, 2026. Property of Mockingbird Ministries, all rights reserved (www.mbird.com).
Rebecca's past work on mind and matter(ing) ... Rebecca's new book, The Mattering Instinct ... Varieties of mattering experience ... Mattering type 1: Heroic Strivers ... Mattering type 2: Socializers ... Mattering type 3: Transcenders ... Mattering type 4: Competitors ... “The” meaning of life problem ... Does what drives us divide us? ... Heading to Overtime ...
Episode SummaryThis is more than a recap—it's a reckoning.After a powerful conversation with Jennifer Wallace, Jason and Garth come back together to unpack what might be one of the most important leadership ideas of our time: mattering.In a world that relentlessly pushes achievement, performance, and external validation, this episode asks a deeper question:Do the people around us feel like they truly matter—no matter what?Through the lens of attunement, the SAID framework, and the idea of being a “corner person,” this conversation brings leadership back to its human core. It's about shifting from managing performance… to affirming worth.This episode is the emotional and intellectual closer to a powerful triad—and it lands with clarity, urgency, and heart.Key TopicsWhy mattering is emerging as a defining issue in leadership and societyThe hidden cost of achievement culture on well-beingThe SAID Framework (See, Acknowledge, Include, Depend) as a daily leadership practiceAttunement as the leadership superpower we don't talk about enoughThe “corner person” concept and why everyone needs oneHow gratitude and acknowledgment build cultures of belongingPractical ways to embed mattering into organizational lifeMattering is not a soft skill—it's a survival skill.People thrive when they know their worth is unconditional, not tied to performance.Attunement is presence in action—it's noticing, listening, and responding with care.Great leaders don't just drive outcomes—they become corner people for others.Cultures don't drift toward mattering—they are built through intentional daily acts.Quotes“People feel that their worth is not conditional.”“The joy train is a leadership life skill.”“Let someone know they matter to you today.”“Attunement is how we show people they're seen—without needing them to perform.”Chapters00:00 – Introduction to Mattering and Leadership07:07 – Why Mattering Matters (Now More Than Ever)10:10 – The SAID Framework in Action12:51 – Attunement: The Missing Leadership Skill16:02 – The Power of Being a “Corner Person”19:04 – Gratitude, Acknowledgment, and Daily Practice22:03 – What This Means for Leaders Going ForwardKeywordsleadership, mattering, attunement, well-being, coaching, gratitude, organizational culture, leadership development, emotional intelligence, belonging, SAID framework, Jennifer Wallace, Never EnoughClosing ThoughtsIf the first conversation opened our eyes…and the second gave us language…This one gives us responsibility.Because once you understand mattering, you can't unknow it.And from that point forward, leadership becomes a daily choice:Will people feel seen, valued, and needed because of you?
בפרק 246 של הפודקאסט בית הספר לקארמה טובה, ד"ר לירז מרגלית ואני צוללות לאחד המושגים הכי שנויים במחלוקת – "זימון מציאות". בעוד שהגישה הרוחנית המוכרת מבטיחה שמחשבה חיובית לבדה תביא את התוצאות, אנחנו מפרקות את המנגנון הזה למרכיבים מדעיים ופסיכולוגיים. גילינו שזה לא קסם, אלא מערכת סינון מתוחכמת במוח (RAS) שאחראית להחליט אילו הזדמנויות יצופו למודעות שלנו ואילו יישארו שקופות.השיחה חושפת מדוע חשיבה חיובית ללא תוכנית עלולה דווקא להוריד לנו את המוטיבציה, ואיך מודלים מחקריים עוזרים לנו לגשר על הפער בין חלום למציאות. אנחנו מדברות על החשיבות של ה"למה" העמוק, על היכולת לצפות מכשולים מראש בשיטת "אם... אז...", ועל האופן שבו המוח ממשיך לעבוד עבורנו גם כשאנחנו בהפוגה. זהו מדריך פרקטי לאימון השריר המודע שלנו, כדי להפוך את המציאות שסביבנו למגרש משחקים של הזדמנויות שנמצאות שם כל הזמן.השאלות שהפרק עונה עליהן: * מהו המנגנון המוחי (RAS) שאחראי על "זימון מציאות" ואיך מכוונים אותו? * מדוע דמיון של הצלחה בלבד עלול לפגוע בסיכויים שלנו להשיג אותה? * איך מייצרים מטרות שיש להן משמעות (Mattering) שמניעה אותנו גם ברגעים קשים? * מהי שיטת "הדמיון הנכון" שמפעילה את כל החושים ואיך היא משפיעה על התת-מודע? * איך "תקופת דגירה" ושינוי ברירת המחדל המחשבתית משנים את התוצאות בשטח?ממתינות לכם שם בחוץ אינספור דלתות והזדמנויות שפשוט עוד לא למדתם לראות. אם נמאס לכם לחכות שהיקום "יסתדר" בשבילכם, בואו ללמוד איך לתכנת את המערכת הכי חזקה בעולם – המוח שלכם – כדי שיתחיל לעבוד עבורכם. המציאות שאתם מחפשים כבר נמצאת כאן, היא פשוט מחכה שתכוונו אליה את העדשה.להתחיל את המסע לשקט נפשי עם הקורסים ״לא כולם נרקסיסטים״ ו״מתחילה מחדש״אוהבים את הפודקאסט? דרגו אותנו באפליקציה האהובה עליכםלקבוצת הפייסבוק בית ספר לקארמה טובהhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/660622764666404/לבלוג 3 סיפורים מהשבוע החולףWww.Ruth-dayan.comלאתר משרד רות דיין-וולפנר - משרד עו"ד דיני משפחהWww.ruthdayan.co.Ilהאינסטגרם שלנוhttps://www.instagram.com/ruthi/
Feeling invisible at work is not just frustrating, it is deeply human. Rosie challenges leaders to rethink one of the most overlooked drivers of engagement and wellbeing: the fundamental need to feel like we matter. Drawing inspiration from research and real leadership conversations, Rosie explores why clarity, connection, and consistent reminders of purpose are essential for helping people feel seen and valued. She shares a powerful perspective on becoming a "chief reminding officer" and how intentional communication can reconnect individuals to meaning in both their professional and personal lives. If you are ready to strengthen culture, spark motivation, and create environments where people truly shine, this episode offers a simple but transformative leadership invitation. Additional Resources: Connect with Rosie on LinkedIn Learn more about Salveo Partners Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Key Takeaways: Mattering is a core human need Leaders must overcommunicate purpose and clarity Feeling valued fuels engagement and wellbeing Intentional reminders strengthen connection and contribution Small actions help people let their sparkle shine
Episode SummaryIn this episode of Lassoing Leadership, Jason Rogers and co-host Garth Nichols sit down with bestselling author Jennifer Wallace to explore one of the most important—and often overlooked—ideas in leadership and education today: mattering.Together, they unpack what happens when achievement becomes the only currency in schools, and how leaders can intentionally build cultures where students, staff, and communities feel seen, valued, and deeply connected.This is a conversation about shifting from pressure to purpose—and from performance to people.Why mattering is a fundamental human need—and how it shapes motivation, well-being, and performanceThe hidden costs of toxic achievement culture on students and educatorsHow small, intentional micro-moments of significance can transform school cultureThe role of gratitude and attunement in building authentic connectionThe power of a “corner person” and the idea of ego extension in supporting othersMattering isn't a bonus—it's foundational to healthy, thriving communitiesCulture shifts don't require massive overhauls—small moments, done well, matter mostRecognizing the person behind the performance builds trust and connectionMoving from a zero-sum mindset to one of shared success strengthens resilienceWhen schools prioritize mattering, the impact extends far beyond the classroom“Mattering is a fundamental human need.”“A corner person supports your ego extension.”“Attunement is feeling felt—truly understood.”Chapters00:00 — Introduction to Leadership and Mattering04:39 — Understanding Toxic Achievement Culture06:55 — Why Mattering Matters in Schools09:05 — Balancing Mattering and Achievement11:46 — Clean Fuel vs. Dirty Fuel12:59 — The Role of a Corner Person17:15 — The Power of Gratitude19:01 — Attunement: Feeling Felt22:05 — Advice for New School Leaders25:40 — OutroLinksJennifer Wallace — Website: https://jenniferbwallace.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenniferbrahennywallaceM&M's (as a simple symbol of appreciation): https://www.mms.comDan Siegel's work on attunement: https://www.dansiegel.com
At the World Happiness Summit meeting at the SXSW conference in Austin, Texas, we talk to author Jennifer Wallace about her new book, “Mattering: The Secret to a Life of Deep Connection and Purpose.” Resources & links related to this episode: Mattering by Jennifer Wallace World Happiness Summit Take the Four Tendencies Quiz here Get in touch: podcast@gretchenrubin.com Visit Gretchen's website to learn more about Gretchen's best-selling books, products from The Happiness Project Collection, and the Happier app. Find the transcript for this episode on the episode details page in the Apple Podcasts app.
Kampf, Flucht und Erstarren sind bekannte Reaktionen des Nervensystems auf Gefahr oder akuten Stress. Diese drei wurden um eine vierte Reaktion ergänzt: Fawning. Dabei geht es um Anpassung und Unterwerfung. Wir können aber lernen, Grenzen zu setzen.**********An dieser Stelle findet ihr die Übung:00:26:19 - Geleitete Meditation**********Quellen aus der Folge:Bailey, R., Dugard, J., Smith, S. F., & Porges, S. W. (2023). Appeasement: replacing Stockholm syndrome as a definition of a survival strategy. European journal of psychotraumatology, 14(1), 2161038.Schlote, S. (2023). History of the term ‘appeasement': a response to Bailey et al.(2023). European Journal of Psychotraumatology, 14(2), 2183005.**********Dianes und Main Huongs Empfehlungen:Josephson, M. (2025). Bist du sauer auf mich? Wie du aufhörst, anderen gefallen zu wollen, und endlich dein Leben lebst. Dumont. **********Mehr zum Thema bei Deutschlandfunk Nova:Das Gefühl, wichtig zu sein: Mattering ist für unser Wohlbefinden essenziellSustainable Living: Wie Achtsamkeit und Nachhaltigkeit zusammenhängenVergangenheit bewältigen: Mit transgenerationalen Traumata umgehen**********Den Artikel zum Stück findet ihr hier.**********Ihr könnt uns auch auf diesen Kanälen folgen: TikTok und Instagram .**********Ihr habt Anregungen, Ideen, Themenwünsche? Dann schreibt uns gern unter achtsam@deutschlandfunknova.de
Anyone looking to be seen and understood or to add value in their community will really appreciate this episode: Along with host Sarah Bowen Shea, Coach Liz Waterstraat unpacks Mattering: The Secret to a Life of Deep Connection and Purpose, a new book by journalist Jennifer Breheny Wallace.The hosting duo talks about the importance of seeing the difference one makes in their world, plus what constitutes success. And Coach Liz reveals details about her “impact file.”Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themotherrunner/ Feisty Fest: Join us from September 18-20, 2026 - https://feisty.co/events/feisty-fest/ Wahoo Kickr Run: Use the code FEISTY2026 to get a free Headwind Smart Fan (value $300) with the purchase of a Wahoo KICKR RUN at https://shorturl.at/WVhdr The 27th Mile Free Events: Head to https://www.manyhappymiles.com/books for more details and to RSVP.
SummaryIn this episode, we explore the powerful work of Jennifer Wallace and her insights into the growing impact of toxic achievement culture on students and leaders alike.Drawing from Never Enough and her ongoing work on mattering, we unpack a central tension facing schools today: how do we pursue excellence without tying self-worth to performance?This conversation challenges leaders, educators, and parents to rethink success—not as a collection of outcomes, but as a culture where individuals feel seen, valued, and essential. As always, we bring it back to the Ted Lasso lens: high performance and high care are not opposing forces—they are deeply connected.Toxic achievement culture, Mattering, Education leadership, Student well-being, Purpose-driven success, Leadership strategies, School culture, Mental health, Identity and performance, Human-centered leadershipThe hidden costs of toxic achievement culture in high-performing environmentsWhy students (and adults) begin to equate self-worth with outcomesThe concept of mattering and why it may be the most important leadership lever we havePractical ways leaders can create environments where people feel seen, needed, and valuedThe shared responsibility of schools and families in shaping cultureHow “mattering” actually enhances performance rather than competing with itQuotes“When self-worth is tied to performance, success becomes fragile.”“Mattering isn't soft—it's the foundation of real performance.”“You can belong and still feel invisible. Mattering is different.”“High expectations and deep care can—and must—coexist.”Chapters00:00 – Setting the Stage: Why This Conversation Matters07:15 – The Rise (and Risk) of Achievement Culture14:30 – Understanding Mattering as a Leadership Practice20:05 – The Role of Schools, Parents, and Culture23:00 – Leadership Takeaways: From Performance to Purpose24:45 – Closing Reflections & Beards Book Club OutroResourcesJennifer Wallace TED TalkNever EnoughMatteringReese Witherspoon's Book Club (featured selection of Never Enough)
What does it take to build a truly flourishing team? NYT bestselling author Daniel Coyle (The Culture Code, The Talent Code) returns to share insights from his powerful new book Flourish — and this conversation will change how you think about leadership, team culture, and what it means to matter.We explore the difference between belonging and mattering, why psychological safety isn't enough, and how the most transformational leaders don't motivate — they architect meaningful moments. From a small Vermont town that produced 11 Olympians, to the New England Patriots' Four H's exercise, to a $90 million deli in Michigan, Coyle unpacks the hidden machinery behind teams that truly thrive.Whether you're a sports coach, executive leader, or team builder, this episode delivers simple, actionable strategies you can use today.
In This Episode Have we reached the point where AI is beginning to matter in a commercial sense or are we still in the ‘figuring it out’ stage and it’s not driving outcomes yet? In this episode host Jason Henrichs is joined by Prashant Mehrotra, Chief AI Officer at U.S. Bank, and John Sun, Co-Founder and CEO of Spring Labs, for a deep dive into the frontier that is AI. Listen as these executives share insights on AI as a transformational force, not just one part of the organization. Everyone needs to be brought along on the journey which requires evangelization, education, building, and execution as one. Best techs just exist, it should not feel like you are doing AI, you should just be doing your work — a state where intelligence is embedded and is everywhere. The trio also explore the importance of balancing innovation with responsibility, and using AI thoughtfully. AI is complex, and organizations need to know where best to use it. There’s no need to overengineer every single solution. Generative AI costs every time you use it and human oversight remains essential, particularly in highly regulated environments. As we search for efficiency and transformation for good, is AI the next set of prosperity, similar to the invention of the automobile? This episode is part of the Hot Takes series, powered by U.S. Bank, and was recorded live at the University of Utah's FintechXchange Conference.
In this episode of Magic in the Room, Luke Freeman, Hannah Bratterud, and Chris Province dive into the concept of "mattering," inspired by Zach Mercurio's work, and explore why it is a foundational driver of engagement, performance, and culture in organizations. They challenge leaders to move beyond assuming people matter to actively ensuring individuals feel that they matter by being valued and by contributing value to a shared purpose. The conversation highlights how mattering differs from belonging, why it cannot be replaced by perks or efficiency, and how leadership behaviors like attention, recognition, and presence directly shape whether people feel seen, heard, and understood. Through examples ranging from workplace dynamics to broader societal trends like social disconnection, they argue that disengagement, conflict, and even poor performance are symptoms of a mattering deficit. Ultimately, they position mattering not as a soft concept, but as a measurable, actionable leadership responsibility that underpins trust, resilience, and long-term success. Credits This episode of Magic in the Room was recorded on-site at the Magic in the Room Studio in Bixby, Oklahoma Music by Evan Grim. Find his music on Apple Music.
Let's get down to basics. Does your life have a purpose? Can you justify your existence? I talk with REBECCA GOLDSTEIN, philosopher, novelist, and MacArthur Fellow, about THE MATTERING INSTINCT: How Our Deepest Longing Drives Us and Divides Us. Goldstein asserts we are “creatures of matter who long to matter” - physical beings governed by the laws of nature, yet obsessed with our own significance. She and I talk about the implications of this perspective on our understanding of what it means to be human, and about how we can put this understanding to use to help us turn things around in this challenging time of tribalism and social and political regression. Learn more at rebeccagoldstein.com/
The post How to Talk about Why Mattering Matters with Jennifer Wallace appeared first on Dr Robyn Silverman.
The universal human drive to matter—to feel our lives hold genuine significance—fuels both our greatest achievements and our deepest divisions. It inspires innovation, care, and cooperation while giving rise to ideological extremism, tribalism, and zero-sum conflicts that can challenge individual liberty and peaceful coexistence.MacArthur Fellow and National Humanities Medalist Rebecca Newberger Goldstein joins us to discuss her latest book, The Mattering Instinct: How Our Deepest Longing Drives Us and Divides Us. Through real-life stories of individuals pursuing meaning—from artists and thinkers to everyday heroes and reformed extremists—Goldstein illustrates how the uniquely human need for meaning inspires “mattering projects” that drive both progress and polarization.Cato research fellow and psychologist Adam Omary will moderate the discussion and offer commentary on the book's implications for addressing the contemporary crisis of meaning, defending civil liberties, and advancing human progress. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Award-winning journalist and bestselling author Jennifer Breheny Wallace on mattering, resilience through relationships, and the writing practices behind two New York Times bestselling nonfiction books. You'll learn Why resilience as a writer has far less to do with self-care routines and far more to do with the people you surround yourself with. How to tell whether your idea is a series of articles or a book, and what structural test separates one from the other. A practical way to ask for feedback on your writing that actually leads to useful criticism instead of vague encouragement. Why putting yourself in a nonfiction book can transform it, even if every journalistic instinct tells you not to. The writing schedule that let a journalist with three kids produce two bestselling books, and why it starts at 4AM. Why your inner critic tends to sleep in, and how to take advantage of the hours before it wakes up. A visual trick involving artist sketches that can help you push through the frustration of early drafts. What a lesson from Morley Safer at 60 Minutes reveals about the tension between accuracy and storytelling in nonfiction. The surprising research behind mattering and why it goes deeper than self-esteem, belonging, or purpose on their own. A 30-second daily practice that can help you reconnect to your sense of purpose when long-term projects leave you feeling stuck. Resources & Links
We are living in a moment where the language of self-care is everywhere. Protect your peace. Take a break. Treat yourself. But beneath the bubble baths and wellness rituals, something deeper is breaking down. People are absorbing quiet but powerful lies that they are useless, replaceable, or fundamentally unimportant. This week on Win Today, journalist and bestselling author Jennifer Breheny Wallace joins us to examine what she calls the modern crisis of "mattering." Drawing from extensive research and deeply human stories, Jennifer explains why the need to feel valued and to know that we add value is not optional—it is a core human need. When that need goes unmet, the consequences show up everywhere: fragile self-esteem, burnout, toxic achievement culture, and a constant search for validation that never quite satisfies. We explore why self-esteem alone cannot sustain a healthy identity, how success-driven cultures quietly erode a sense of worth, and why the hyper-visible world of social media often produces the opposite of real connection. Jennifer also introduces the concept of a "mattering core"—the conditions that help people know they are valued and capable of contributing value to others. When those elements are present, resilience grows. When they disappear, people begin to doubt their place in the world. If you've ever felt the pressure to prove your worth, if success has started to feel strangely empty, or if you've wondered why validation never seems to last, this conversation will help reframe what human flourishing actually requires. Guest Bio Jennifer Breheny Wallace is an acclaimed journalist and bestselling author whose work focuses on the intersection of mental health, achievement culture, and human flourishing. She is the author of Mattering: How to Create a Life of Meaning, Empathy, and Impact, a groundbreaking exploration of why the human need to feel valued and to add value is essential to well-being. Jennifer's writing has appeared in outlets including The Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post, where she examines how modern pressures around success and validation shape the mental health of both adults and young people. Through her reporting and research, she helps readers understand how restoring a sense of mattering can strengthen resilience, deepen relationships, and restore purpose in an achievement-driven world. Show Partners SafeSleeve designs a phone case that blocks up to 99% of harmful EMF radiation—so I'm not carrying that kind of exposure next to my body all day. It's sleek, durable, and most importantly, lab-tested by third parties. The results aren't hidden—they're published right on their site. And that matters because many so-called EMF blockers on the market either don't work or can't prove they do. We protect our hearts and minds—why wouldn't we protect our bodies too? Head to safesleevecases.com and use the code WINTODAY10 for 10% off your order. Episode Links Show Notes Buy my book "Healing What You Can't Erase" here! Invite me to speak at your church or event. Connect with me @WINTODAYChris on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube.
________________________ Get started in April on your most important project. Learn more here _________________________ Retirement planning focuses heavily on finances — investments, Social Security, and risks. But there's another question that often sneaks up on people once the career chapter closes: Do I still matter? Our guest today has spent years researching one of the most powerful psychological needs we have as human beings — the need to feel valued and to add value. Jennifer Breheny Wallace is an award-winning journalist and author of the new book Mattering: The Secret to a Life of Deep Connection and Purpose. Her work explores how feeling significant, appreciated, invested in, and depended on shapes our well-being throughout life. And her insights have important implications for retirement. Because when work ends, many people lose one of the primary places where they knew they mattered — where their contributions were visible, valued, and relied upon. In this conversation, we explore: • Why the need to matter doesn't diminish with age • How retirees can build what Jennifer calls a “mattering portfolio” • The surprising research on relationships and resilience • Practical daily actions that restore a sense of meaning and contribution If you're thinking about retirement — or already there — this conversation may change how you think about purpose, connection, and belonging in the next chapter. _________________________ Bio Jennifer Breheny Wallace is the author of Mattering: The Secret to a Life of Deep Connection and Purpose. She is an award-winning journalist and bestselling author whose work explores the power of mattering in our everyday lives. Through research and storytelling, Wallace examines the hidden forces shaping modern life, from the crisis of meaning in achievement culture to the essential role of mattering in personal, workplace, and societal health. Her first book, Never Enough: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic — And What We Can Do About It, was a New York Times Bestseller, an Amazon Best Book of the Year, and a Next Big Idea selection. Wallace is the founder of The Mattering Institute, whose mission is to create cultures of mattering in workplaces and communities, and co-founder of The Mattering Movement, a nonprofit whose mission is to create cultures of mattering in K-12 schools. Wallace has partnered with The LEGO Group on its global Play Unstoppable campaign to address perfectionism and grow confidence through play. She has also consulted with Calm wellness app, Netflix, and is a BCG BrightHouse Luminary. She serves on the University of Michigan’s Well-being Collective Advisory Council, and the Advisory Board for Making Caring Common, a project of the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Wallace is a Journalism Fellow at The Center for Parent and Teen Communication at the Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. After graduating from Harvard College, Wallace was a journalist for CBS “60 Minutes” and was part of the team that won The Robert F. Kennedy Awards for Excellence in Journalism. She is a contributor to The Wall Street Journal and The Washington Post and frequently appears on national television programs to discuss her work. Wallace serves on the board of the Coalition for the Homeless in New York City, where she lives with her husband and their three children. ___________________________ For More on Jennifer Breheny Wallace Mattering: The Secret to a Life of Deep Connection and Purpose by Jennifer Breheny Wallace Website ___________________________ Mentioned in This Retirement Podcast The Retirement Crisis No One Warns You About: Mattering – The Wall Street Journal Video: Taylor Mali (What Do You Make?) ____________________________ Your choices shaped your career. But when retirement approaches, a new design challenge appears. Not a financial one. A life design challenge. What will your days look like? What will energize you? What might the next five years become? In the Designing Your New Life in Retirement program, you’ll step back from the fray and apply design thinking to those questions, with a bias for action. Learn more here. Our next two groups begin in April. Join us and get started on your most important project. _____________________________ Podcast Conversations You May Like What Matters Most – Diane Button How to Live a Meaningful Life – Dave Evans Retiring: Creating a Life That Works for You – Teresa Amabile ____________________________ About The Retirement Wisdom Podcast There are many podcasts on retirement, often hosted by financial advisors with their own financial motives, that cover the money side of the street. This podcast is different. You'll get smarter about the investment decisions you'll make about the most important asset you'll have in retirement: your time. About Retirement Wisdom I help people who are retiring, but aren't quite done yet, discover what's next and build their custom version of their next life. A meaningful retirement doesn't just happen by accident. Schedule a call today to discuss how the Designing Your Life process created by Bill Burnett & Dave Evans can help you make your life in retirement a great one — on your own terms. About Your Podcast Host Joe Casey is an executive coach who helps people design their next life after their primary career and create their version of The Multipurpose Retirement.™ He created his own next chapter after a 26-year career at Merrill Lynch, where he was Senior Vice President and Head of HR for Global Markets & Investment Banking. Joe has earned Master's degrees from the University of Southern California in Gerontology (at age 60), the University of Pennsylvania, and Middlesex University (UK), a BA in Psychology from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, and his coaching certification from Columbia University. In addition to his work with clients, Joe hosts The Retirement Wisdom Podcast, ranked in the top 1% globally in popularity by Listen Notes, with over 1.6 million downloads. Business Insider recognized Joe as one of 23 innovative coaches who are making a difference. He's the author of Win the Retirement Game: How to Outsmart the 9 Forces Trying to Steal Your Joy. ______________________________ Wise Quotes On Adding Value “I found this very common thread among the hundreds of people that I interviewed who, when they were going through a life transition—if it was retirement or grief, getting divorced, all these things—what they did over and over again was that they found new ways to add value. And so they would look for what I call in the book a genuine need in the world. And then they would use either their time or their talents or their treasure to meet those needs. It's kind of a handy formula for finding purpose.” On Your Mattering Portfolio “Plan your retirement social portfolio—your mattering portfolio—as carefully as you plan your financial portfolio…You are only one decision, one action away from getting back on that path to mattering.”
In this insightful episode, host Ashish Kothari sits down with Eleanor Allen—a powerhouse leader who has navigated the peaks of the engineering world, led global social impact as the CEO of Water for People, and served as CEO of B Lab. Eleanor shares her "accidental" discovery of inner development and how moving from a rigid, "controlled" masculine leadership style to one of vulnerability and radical self-awareness transformed not just her life, but her global organization. This conversation is a must-listen for leaders who feel they must carry the world on their shoulders and are looking for a more sustainable, joyful, and high-performance way to lead.Main Topics CoveredThe Leader's Mirror: Why an organization's state of being is a direct reflection of its leader's personal flourishing.The Engineer's Armor: Eleanor's journey from a "got all the answers" professional upbringing to embracing vulnerability.Leading Through Crisis: How the lack of a "COVID playbook" forced a shift toward asking for help and experimenting.Head, Heart, and Plate: A simple, powerful meeting ritual to build connective tissue and psychological safety in teams.The Drama Triangle & Responsibility: Understanding your share of responsibility in workplace conflict.For-Profit vs. Non-Profit Flourishing: Common drivers and unique stressors (like the "philanthropy myth") in different sectors.The Flourishing Leader Summit: A preview of the upcoming Denver/Boulder intensive on April 29th.Key TakeawaysSelf-Care is Organizational Care: Leaders stuck in "survival mode" cannot create thriving ecosystems; your personal well-being is a strategic priority, not an indulgence.Vulnerability is a Catalyst: Admitting you don't have the answers during uncertain times invites the team to step up, innovate, and co-create solutions.Mattering and Appreciation: The universal need to feel valued is often the simplest and most effective lever for increasing engagement in any sector.Measure What Matters: Move beyond superficial "wellness perks" and start measuring root causes like absenteeism, financial stress, and psychological safety.The Power of Slower: Being "calmer" and more intentional in decision-making leads to better outcomes and more trusting team dynamics.
Jennifer is an accomplished journalist and a best-selling author. Jennifer's first book, Never Enough: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic, sounded the alarm about a troubling trend in our society. She has followed up with a new book entitled Mattering: The Secret to a Life of Deep Connection and Purpose, which offers an alternative to precarious, achievement-based identities, and shows how to construct more meaningful lives. Jennifer joins the podcast today to discuss the concept of "mattering" and our core human needs. Do you feel exhausted by the hyper-competitive nature of our society? Job applications, college admissions, extracurriculars, even enrolling children in the right summer camp? If you haven't heard it yet, check out our first Templeton Ideas episode with Jennifer Wallace on Breaking the Cycle of Toxic Achievement Culture. Join our growing community of 200,000+ listeners and be notified of new episodes of Templeton Ideas. Subscribe today. Follow us on social media: Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn , and YouTube.
Zach Mercurio, Ph.D., is a researcher, author, and speaker who specializes in purposeful leadership, mattering, meaningful work, and positive organizational psychology.He wrote "The Invisible Leader: Transform Your Life, Work, and Organization with the Power of Authentic Purpose." His forthcoming book, "The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance," will be released by Harvard Business Review Press in 2025.Zach works with hundreds of organizations worldwide to forge purposeful leaders who enable mattering, motivation, well-being, and performance. Some of his clients include the U.S. Army, USA Wrestling, J.P. Morgan Chase, Delta Airlines, Marriott International, The Government of Canada, and The National Park Service.He also serves as one of author Simon Sinek's “Optimist Instructors.”Zach earned his Ph.D. in organizational development from Colorado State University where he serves as a Research and Teaching Fellow in the Department of Psychology's Center for Meaning and Purpose and as an Instructor in the Organizational Learning, Performance, and Change program.His research on meaningful work has been awarded by The Association for Talent Development, The Academy of Management, and The Academy of Human Resource Development.Zach lives in Fort Collins, CO with his wife, two sons, and two adopted dogs.Link to claim CME credit: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/3DXCFW3CME credit is available for up to 3 years after the stated release dateContact CEOD@bmhcc.org if you have any questions about claiming credit.
What drives the most successful people to their greatest achievements—and sometimes their darkest moments?Alongside writer and philosopher Rebecca Goldstein, we explore the mattering instinct - the fundamental human need to justify why we deserve attention in our own eyes - and discover how identifying your mattering project transforms this universal longing into a meaningful life path.We unpack why this one psychological force is responsible for both our greatest accomplishments and our most destructive ideologies.We uncover the mattering map's four core strategies—heroic strivers who pursue excellence, socializers who find meaning through connection, competitors driven by zero-sum thinking, and transcendents grounded in spiritual purpose—and learn how recognizing which strategy aligns with your temperament reveals where you've been chasing unfulfilling projects.
Negotiate Anything: Negotiation | Persuasion | Influence | Sales | Leadership | Conflict Management
What if everything we've been told about self-improvement is wrong? In this episode, Daniel Coyle, the New York Times bestselling author of The Culture Code and The Talent Code, reveals why he "stopped the presses" on his latest book to change its entire focus. After years of studying high-performers, Daniel realized that flourishing isn't a solo sport—it's a shared experience. We dive deep into why the modern world feels so isolating and how "late individualism" is hitting its limit. Daniel explains the scientific definition of flourishing: joyful, meaningful growth shared. In this episode, you'll learn: The "Stop the Presses" Moment: Why Daniel changed his book's subtitle to focus on the transformative power of community. The Vulnerability Reflex: Why a Navy SEAL commander says the four most important words a leader can speak are "I screwed that up." The Death of Perfection: How to embrace imperfection as the core of creative energy and growth. Mattering vs. Success: A look at Zingerman's $90 million "community of businesses" and how they prioritize soul over scale. The Humanist Revival: Why AI is forcing us to rediscover what it actually feels like to be alive. If you've ever felt like your morning routine or "grind mindset" was leaving you empty, this conversation will show you how to find the "shared improvement" that leads to a truly rich life. Connect with Daniel Coyle Website & Social Media Links: https://danielcoyle.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-coyle-32830310/ https://x.com/danielcoyle https://www.facebook.com/danielcoyleauthor/ Negotiate Anything: Take your personal data back with Incogni!Use code ANYTHING at the link below and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/anythingincogni.com Personal Information Removal Service | Incogni | Incogni Data brokers are collecting, aggregating and trading your personal data without you knowing anything about it. We make them remove it. Contact ANI Request A Customized Workshop For Your Company Follow Kwame Christian on LinkedIn negotiateanything.com Click here to buy your copy of Finding Confidence in Conflict: How to Negotiate Anything and Live Your Best Life!
This is The Briefing, a daily analysis of news and events from a Christian worldview.Part I (00:14 – 17:44)President Trump Said the Silent Thing Out Loud: The Strange World of International LawTrump Lays Out a Vision of Power Restrained Only by ‘My Own Morality' by The New York Times (David E. Sanger, Tyler Pager, Katie Rogers, and Zolan Kanno-Youngs)Part II (17:44 – 20:24)Do You Remember When the Obama Administration Walked Back on the Monroe Doctrine? Even Liberal Administrations are Fuzzy on International LawPart III (20:24 – 21:33)Every Nation Will Give An Account Before the Lord: The Bible Makes Clear That Both Individuals and Nations Will Face God's JudgementPart IV (21:33 – 23:26)We are Bound by God's Law, Not By Our Own Morality: It's Our Task to Remember That TruthPart V (23:26 – 26:23)The Psychologizing of ‘Mattering' – You Won't Believe It Until You See It in WritingThe Retirement Crisis No One Warns You About: Mattering by The Wall Street Journal (Jennifer Breheny Wallace)Sign up to receive The Briefing in your inbox every weekday morning.Follow Dr. Mohler:X | Instagram | Facebook | YouTubeFor more information on The Southern Baptist Theological Seminary, go to sbts.edu.For more information on Boyce College, just go to BoyceCollege.com.To write Dr. Mohler or submit a question for The Mailbox, go here.
Why do so many people feel lonely, burned out, and disconnected—even in a hyper-connected world? Author and journalist Jennifer Wallace joins Mosheh to unpack what she sees as a root cause behind today's mental health, workplace, and social crises: a growing lack of mattering. In her new book, 'Mattering: The Secret to a Life of Deep Connection and Purpose,' Wallace argues that feeling valued for who we are, and knowing we add value to others, is a fundamental human need. She explains how technology, distraction, and achievement-driven culture have hollowed out relationships, contributing to loneliness, burnout, disengagement at work, and rising social anger. The conversation discusses tips for reversing that trend, and also explores parenting and leadership, including why kids and adults thrive when they feel they matter at home and at work, and how small, everyday moments of attention and appreciation can rebuild connection. Mosheh Oinounou (@mosheh) is an Emmy and Murrow award-winning journalist. He has 20 years of experience at networks including Fox News, Bloomberg Television and CBS News, where he was the executive producer of the CBS Evening News and launched the network's 24 hour news channel. He founded the @mosheh Instagram news account in 2020 and the Mo News podcast and newsletter in 2022.