Podcast appearances and mentions of michael gervais

What if the biggest barrier between you and your potential isn't talent - but a belief you've never questioned?Nir Eyal is a behavioral design expert and the bestselling author of Hooked, Indistractable, and his newest book, Beyond Belief. In this conversation with Dr. Michael Gervais, he explores a deceptively powerful idea: that beliefs operate like the hidden software of the mind, shaping what we notice, what we feel, what we attempt, and what we assume is possible.At the center of the conversation is a problem most of us know very intimately: If we already know what to do, why don't we do it? Nir argues that motivation is not simply about knowing the right behavior or wanting the right outcome. Holding it all together is belief, the often invisible layer that determines whether we think change is possible, whether our effort is worth it, and whether we believe we are capable of following through.Nir breaks down the difference between facts, faith, and beliefs, and offers a compelling reframing: beliefs are not truths, they are tools. From there, he explores the difference between limiting beliefs and liberating beliefs, why the mind defaults toward safety and passivity, and how small acts of agency can begin to reshape what we think is available to us.Mike and Nir also dig into the relationship between pain and suffering, learned helplessness and hope, and the role interpretation plays in human performance. Along the way, they unpack how beliefs shape our attention, anticipation, and agency, and why changing a belief is often less about finding “the truth” and more about testing perspectives that better serve the life we want to live.This is a conversation about motivation, resilience, and the invisible architecture of our inner life. If you've ever felt stuck, frustrated that insight alone isn't producing change, or curious about the mental filters shaping your performance, this one is for you. __________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What does it look like to bet on yourself, embrace reinvention, and build a YouTube channel that reaches millions?Michelle Khare is the creator and host of Challenge Accepted, the award-winning YouTube series where sherains with elite performers, athletes, and professionals to take on some of the world's toughest stunts and professions. But this conversation goes far beyond spectacle. It's about the psychology underneath the performance: how Michelle prepares for high-pressure environments, how she thinks about failure, and how she's built a serious creative business without losing the joy at the center of it. In this conversation, Michelle shares how her path began at the intersection of two demanding worlds: working as a video producer by day while competing as a professional cyclist at night. Out of that tension, she created something new — a format that blends physical challenge, storytelling, and deep iteration. She talks about the early trial-and-error phase of building her channel, the importance of owning her own IP, and why many creators don't realize they've already become entrepreneurs. Michelle also opens up about what it means to fail in public. She explains why growth often depends on being willing to look unpolished in front of other people, how she identifies her “strategic advantages” in unfamiliar environments, and why the low points — not just the polished outcomes — are what actually make a story worth telling. Along the way, she offers a compelling look at how she built a YouTube channel with over 5.4 million loyal subscribers. In this conversation, we explore:Why courage becomes more useful when it is systematizedHow Michelle built Challenge Accepted by blending athletics, storytelling, and businessWhy willingness to fail publicly can become a competitive advantageHow to identify your “strategic advantages” in unfamiliar environmentsWhy relationships, feedback, and team culture are essential to longevityHow to elevate the YouTube creator space into a respected part of the entertainment industryThis is a conversation about courage, yes, but also about design. How do you build a life where courage is not occasional, but trainable? How do you stay ambitious without burning out? And how you can keep evolving while staying grounded in the people and principles that matter most.__________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Quote of the Week: "To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment." — Ralph Waldo Emerson   Why do we care so much about what other people think, and how is it impacting our confidence?   In this episode, Dr. Cindra Kamphoff and Lisa talk about FOPO — the Fear of Other People's Opinions, a term coined by performance psychologist Michael Gervais. When we let outside voices guide our decisions, our confidence shrinks and we start playing small.   You'll hear why comparison is one of the fastest confidence killers, how FOPO quietly shows up in everyday moments, and what high performers do differently to stay grounded in their purpose instead of approval.   If you've ever hesitated to speak up, share an idea, or pursue an opportunity because of what others might think—this episode is for you.   Power Phrase of the Week: "I value feedback — but I don't outsource my identity.   To download our full study report, visit: confidencestudy.com To Request a Free Breakthrough Call with a Mentally Strong Coach, visit: http://www.freementalbreakthroughcall.com/ To learn more about the Mentally Strong Institute, visit: https://mentallystronginstitute.com/ To learn about Dr. Cindra Kamphoff's speaking and coaching, visit: https://cindrakamphoff.com/ To follow Dr. Cindra on Instagram, visit: Cindra Kamphoff, PhD (@cindrakamphoff) • Instagram photos and videos

Hustle culture is out, and Dr. Michael Gervais is here to tell us why. The world-renowned high-performance psychologist, who works with Olympians, Fortune 50 CEOs, and the Seattle Seahawks, returns to Real Pod for the third time to challenge everything we think we know about success. In this powerful conversation, Dr. Mike breaks down the difference between peak performance and true mastery, why doing more will not make you extraordinary, and how to train your mind to be calm, focused, and unbothered. He shares how to create a compelling future, make a fundamental commitment to your values, and build the psychological agility needed to navigate setbacks without losing yourself. If you are tired of burnout, chasing validation, or feeling behind, this episode will shift your entire perspective. Tune in to learn how to be more so you can finally do less, but better.Resources:Morning Mindset Routine: linked here Website: findingmastery.comInstagram: @michaelgervaisPodcast: Finding Mastery with Dr. Michael GervaisRelated Episodes:Dr. Michael Gervais - Understanding Our Minds: How To Unlock Your Full PotentialStop Worrying About What People Think Of You & Unleash Your Authenticity with Dr. Michael Gervais// SPONSORS //Premier Protein: Find your favorite flavor at premierprotein.com or at Amazon, Walmart, and other major retailers. Quince: Go to quince.com/realpod to get free shipping and 365-day returns.BetterHelp: Visit betterhelp.com/realpod today to get 10% off your first month.LMNT: LMNT is offering a free sample pack with any purchase, that's 8 single serving packets FREE with any LMNT order. This is a great way to try all 8 flavors or share LMNT with a friend. Get yours at DrinkLMNT.com/realpod.Peloton: Let yourself run, lift, sculpt, push, and go. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.com. Please note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What questions are tugging at you right now, and how might exploring the answers help you live and perform with more clarity?We're back with a special edition of the Finding Mastery podcast: another Ask Me Anything episode, built from the deep, thoughtful questions submitted by our community.In this AMA, Michael Gervais is joined by Jeff Byers, former NFL player, Co-Founder and CEO of Momentous, and longtime friend of Finding Mastery. Jeff has built something very special with Momentous, a supplement company grounded in transparency and integrity in an industry that can be full of noise and misinformation. He often says trust is earned, and he takes that responsibility personally.His relentless approach to mastery, both for himself and for the team he's building at Momentous—makes him an ideal co-host to help Mike wrestle with questions across a wide range of topics… how to perform with more clarity, how to work skillfully with strong emotions, and how to build a life that feels aligned with what matters most.Key insights we explored:Shift from perfection to purpose… why “the constant pursuit of perfectionism” is a setup for burnout, and how purpose changes the whole frame.Downregulating the nervous system… practical ways to move from sympathetic “on” to parasympathetic “rest and digest,” including breath, gaze, laughter, touch, nature, and intentionally induced recovery.Anger and emotional skill… how to feel anger without outward harm or inward collapse, and why the goal is to build the capacity to be “unbothered.”Loneliness and connection… why loneliness can surge when you leave familiar people and routines, and how “time-boxing” the feeling can help you train it instead of letting it bleed through the entire day.Reflection when life is full… how to build a sustainable rhythm for inner work, from 90-second practices to scheduled retreats, and why scheduling and celebration matter. If you find yourself wrestling with perfectionism, emotional spillover, loneliness, or a life that won't slow down, this AMA is a strong reminder that mastery is trained—one choice, one practice, one reset at a time.__________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A leadership team with top-tier talent, strong strategy, and capital behind it still misses targets. Engagement scores drift. Execution stalls. On paper, nothing is wrong. In reality, the environment is misaligned.That gap between capability and consistent performance is where culture either compounds results or quietly erodes them.Aaron Walsh, Head of Culture, Leadership and Mental Performance at the Rajasthan Royals and former Mental Skills coach with the Chiefs, has spent his career working inside high performance systems where results are unforgiving and scrutiny is constant.Why is culture still treated as a “soft” variable despite overwhelming evidence that it shapes behaviour, decision-making and performance under pressure?1:45 – Defining culture and what happens when reality doesn't match the wall. 9:05 – Aaron's work with the Chiefs and Mike Cron on building a successful culture. 15:45 – Connecting teams to the community and the last 10% performance gains from culture. 19:55 – Michael Gervais, the Seattle Seahawks, and bringing team culture to corporates like IAG. 27:55 – Immediate actions to improve culture and fostering psychological safety for innovation. 33:10 – Leadership, culture, and why your energy impacts corporate performance. 36:50 – Andrew's morning routine and the quality vs quantity time debate. 41:05 – Measuring culture beyond annual check-ins and its impact. 47:15 – Modelling desired behaviours and Aaron's 5-year vision. 54:35 – When systems fail, talent isn't enough and why some teams may not need a mental skills coach. 59:55 – Spotting cultural clues on day one and lessons from sports to corporate mental skills.Listen to the previous episode with Aaron here: https://performanceintelligence.transistor.fm/episodes/143-aaron-walsh Use Code "PQPODCAST10" to get 10% off your Lumo Coffee order:https://lumocoffee.com/ Interested in sharing your story? Email Producer Shannon at support@performanceintelligence.com today with your story and contact details. Learn more about Andrew and Performance Intelligence: https://performanceintelligence.com/Find out more about Andrew's Keynotes : https://performanceintelligence.com/keynotes/Follow Andrew May: https://www.instagram.com/andrewmay/Watch the Performance Intelligence Podcast on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@performanceintelligencepodcastIf you enjoy the podcast, we would really appreciate you leaving a short review on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or Google Play. It takes less than 60 seconds and really helps us build our audience and continue to provide high quality guests.

In this eye-opening MTNTOUGH Podcast episode, host Dustin Defenderfer sits down with world-renowned high-performance psychologist Dr. Michael Gervais—performance coach to Olympic athletes, Super Bowl champions (Seattle Seahawks), elite military units, and host of Finding Mastery podcast. Dr. Gervais dives deep into why fear of people's opinions (FOPO) is the #1 constrictor of potential for men today, blocking generational impact, chain-breaking purpose, and world-changing pursuits. Drawing from The First Rule of Mastery and real-time Olympic examples (Mikaela Shiffrin's gold-medal mindset shift), he unpacks training the mind to master thoughts/emotions, escape performance traps, build post-traumatic growth, and thrive under pressure—while addressing rising male numbness, complacency, anxiety, depression, and the critical need for community, present-moment focus, meditation, and fundamental commitment to being your best. A must-listen for hunters, dads, entrepreneurs, and men ready to break free from fear and live dangerously aligned.Join Dustin Diefenderfer, Founder of MTNTOUGH Fitness Lab and creator of the MTNTOUGH+ Fitness App in the top podcast for Mental Toughness and Mindset. (P.S.

What if the hardest part of money isn't earning it, but knowing how to use it well?Morgan Housel, bestselling author of The Psychology of Money, returns to Finding Mastery to explore the core idea behind his newest bestselling book, The Art of Spending Money. In this next chapter of his work, Morgan shifts the conversation away from accumulation and toward a deeper question: after the basics are covered, what role should money actually play in your life?While most financial advice focuses on how to earn and invest, Morgan argues that the more consequential skill is learning how to spend in alignment with your values. The challenge isn't simply getting rich. It's defining “enough.”In this conversation, Dr. Michael Gervais and Morgan unpack why money decisions are rarely logical and almost always emotional… shaped by identity, comparison, uncertainty, and the quiet pull of status. They explore the psychological difference between getting rich and staying rich, why uncertainty is a permanent feature of life, and how financial independence — not prestige — may be the real prize.At the center of it all is a powerful reframe:Money is a tool, not a scorecard.In this episode, we explore:Why money anxiety persists even when you're “doing fine” on paperHow comparison and status influence spending decisionsWhat it means to use money in service of “a good life”Why defining “enough” matters more than earning “more”How to spend with more intention and fewer regretsIf you're serious about building a life that feels aligned — not just impressive — this conversation offers a grounded, psychologically rigorous lens on how to think about money differently.__________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Leave an Amazon Rating or Review for my New York Times Bestselling book, Make Money Easy!Check out the full episode: https://greatness.lnk.to/1890DMDr. Michael Gervais is a high-performance psychologist who's spent 30 years studying what separates elite performers from everyone else. His first principle? You don't rise to moments. You fall to the level of your training. Every single time.That extra rep at the gym when your body screams to stop. Staying in a hard conversation just a little bit longer when you want to bail. Those aren't just isolated moments. They're training sessions.And you're always training something. The way you frame this conversation right now. The way you responded to the cold eggs you ate this morning. All of it is shaping how you'll respond when it really counts.Here's the reality check: 84% of people live right around average in the way they approach their live's. Not because they lack talent. Because they never fundamentally organize their life around what matters most. Most people don't even make that decision. Without awareness of how you're working with your thoughts and emotions? You don't have a fighting chance at becoming what you're capable of.This is what post-traumatic growth actually looks like when you've been training for it your whole life.Sign up for the Greatness newsletter: http://www.greatness.com/newsletter Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How do you stay engaged without getting consumed? That's one of the central questions in this conversation between Dan and high-performance psychologist Dr. Michael Gervais.  Together they explore:  working at your edge in meditation, panic disorder, and professional life why love might be the most important skill we can develop  navigating rage in difficult political times and the Ideal Competitive Mindset — a concept Dan found surprisingly useful.  Originally recorded for Dr. Gervais' podcast, Finding Mastery, this one turned into a real back-and-forth.   Join Dan's online community here Follow Dan on social: Instagram, TikTok Subscribe to our YouTube Channel   To advertise on the show, contact sales@advertisecast.com or visit https://advertising.libsyn.com/10HappierwithDanHarris

Why are young people today reporting the highest levels of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and despair in modern history?Dr. Angela Duckworth is a professor of psychology at the University of Pennsylvania and one of the world's leading voices on grit, self-control, and the science of thriving. In this conversation with Dr. Michael Gervais, Angela reflects on how her thinking about grit has evolved, where it's often misunderstood, and why perseverance without purpose can become harmful instead of helpful.They explore what excellence really looks like behind the scenes. Not the highlight reel, but the long stretch of deliberate practice and repeated effort that most people never see. Angela also reframes passion as something that develops over time, and offers a practical lens for staying committed when enthusiasm fades and outcomes take longer than expected.The conversation expands beyond performance into family life and parenting. They examine the cultural forces shaping today's youth: the rise of social media, the erosion of in-person connection, the displacement of nature, and the unintended consequences of modern parenting. Angela shares what the data actually shows about the mental health crisis, and what we as parents, educators, and leaders can do about it. In this episode, you'll learn:What grit really is, and what it isn't Why excellence comes from high-quality practice over timeHow passion develops slowly, and why it can be treated like a skillHow to stay committed when motivation fadesWhy environments shape kids more than pressure doesWhy young people's happiness has sharply declined since 2010What the research says about anxiety, depression, and loneliness in Gen ZHow screens and social disconnection may be reshaping well-beingPractical ways parents can create environments where kids can truly thrive________________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XDavid Blanchflower Article: Blanchflower DG, Bryson A, Xu X (2025) “The declining mental health of the young and the global disappearance of the unhappiness hump shape in age.” https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0327858See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Michael Gervais opens up about surviving a head-on car collision at 70 miles per hour and how decades of psychological training shaped his response in that split second.The high performance psychologist, who has spent 14 years inside NFL locker rooms and coached athletes through four Olympic Games, shares why he believes humans don't rise to moments but fall to the level of their training.He breaks down what he calls "the danger line," that messy emotional edge where growth actually happens, and explains why most people never practice getting there in their careers, relationships, or conversations with loved ones. Gervais also delivers a pointed warning about youth sports in America, revealing how untrained coaches are shaping the psychological development of children in a system where 99.95% won't achieve their athletic dreams.Whether you're navigating a career setback, building mental resilience, or raising kids who can thrive without tying their worth to performance, this conversation offers a framework for training your psychology the same way elite athletes train their bodies.The Greatness Playbook: The Psychological Strength EditionGet your copy of The First Rule of MasteryFinding Mastery PodcastIn this episode you will:Recognize why performance-based identity fuels achievement but never delivers freedom, and what to build insteadDiscover why negative self-talk is actually a protective mechanism borrowed from childhood and how to replace it with what Dr. Gervais calls "the epic thought list"Learn the difference between optimism, agency, and efficacy and why every world-class performer Dr. Gervais has met shares one of these traitsUnderstand how "fight, flight, freeze, and submit" plays out in boardrooms and relationships, not just physical dangerApply the "support then challenge" framework that the best coaches and parents use to unlock potential without causing psychological harmFor more information go to https://lewishowes.com/1890For more Greatness text PODCAST to +1 (614) 350-3960More SOG episodes we think you'll love:Jim CurtisMel RobbinsDr. Caroline Leaf Get more from Lewis! Get my New York Times Bestselling book, Make Money Easy!Get The Greatness Mindset audiobook on SpotifyText Lewis AIYouTubeInstagramWebsiteTiktokFacebookX Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What if one of the biggest nutrition mistakes we're making isn't what we eat, but what we're missing?Dr. Tim Spector is one of the world's leading researchers on the gut microbiome and how it shapes metabolism, immunity, and even mental wellbeing. In this conversation Tim challenges the conventional nutrition playbook, explaining why calories are a poor guide to health, why most diets backfire, and how ultra‑processed foods can disrupt hunger signals in ways that make “willpower” a losing game.A central theme in this conversation is that many of us are focused on the wrong problem. Tim argues we've been sold a story that we need more protein, when what many people are actually missing is fiber, the essential fuel our gut microbes depend on. From there, the conversation becomes refreshingly actionable, focused on diversity over restriction, whole plants that support microbial health, and why fermented foods can punch far above their weight.This episode is a grounded, science‑backed reframing of nutrition. It's less about rules and more about understanding the system inside you, then feeding it well.__________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Over the years Dr. Michael Gervais has helped Super Bowl winners, Olympic gold medalists, Fortune 500 companies and more dominate their field by molding their mindset into that of a high-performer. His insight on the psychology of recognizing and executing in high-stake moments has made him the go-to guy for anyone wanting to win at a higher level. Co-founder of Compete to Create Dr. Michael Gervais, explains what it takes to lock-in own the moments that matter on this episode of Impact Theory with Tom Bilyeu. SHOW NOTES: Michael explains why he believes every great change starts with pain [2:40] Michael talks about building relationships and balancing accountability with love. [7:55] Michael shares lessons about nurturing relationships after a tough experience with his wife. [13:20] Michael and Tom discuss training their emotions and the greatest fear of modern times. [20:53] Michael breakdowns the process of building self-awareness. [29:18] Michael tells the experience he gained while helping youth over the years. [32:34] Michael reveals the impact he wants to have on the world. [39:14] QUOTES: “The reason we grow is because we get uncomfortable and we embrace being uncomfortable.” [2:50] “Being honest with the pain that we feel is usually the prime mover for people to do the work that is necessary to push to the edge.” [2:55] “From clarity, we can train our mind to have conviction in stressful environments.” [11:55] “It's vulnerability that is how we train emotional capacity. The more that we become vulnerable and demonstrate the courage to do so, we expand our capacity to feel.” [24:12] “In the present moment is where all things high performance take place. That's where love happens. It's where relationships and the fabric of relationships are strengthened and revealed. It's where our glimpses of wisdom and potential happens.” [39:28] FOLLOW DR. MICHAEL GERVAIS: TWITTER - https://bit.ly/2LI2SO9 LINKEDIN - https://bit.ly/2LL98F9 INSTAGRAM - https://bit.ly/2sQxrul WEBSITE - https://bit.ly/2l2kgBW PEOPLE MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Pete Carroll - https://bit.ly/2HGMUBM [1:43] COMPANIES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Compete to Create - https://bit.ly/2MhCP1s [1:45] PODCASTS MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Finding Mastery - https://bit.ly/2Mk0WfW [2:00] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Data on an NFL sideline is immediate. Decisions are filtered through fear, experience, and instinct.In this episode of The Game Inside the Games, Dr. Michael Gervais and NFL legend Brandon Marshall explore the tension between analytics and intuition—what happens when information is instant, comprehensive, and impossible to ignore. As technology reshapes decision-making on the NFL sideline, the real question becomes: when the moment arrives, what do you actually trust?Gervais draws on his conversation with Hillary Kerner, CMO of Insight, to examine the human side of AI adoption and why more data doesn't automatically lead to better choices. Using fourth-down decision-making as a case study, the episode reveals how fear of blame, social pressure, and the need to justify decisions often outweigh what the numbers clearly show.This is a grounded look at how people make decisions under scrutiny—and why learning when to trust the data and when to trust yourself may be one of the most important skills in high-pressure environments.Follow Finding Mastery all week as The Game Inside the Games continues to unpack the inner game at global sporting events,, available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen.

Send us a textToday's episode is with the brilliant Dr. Brent Hogarth who is a clinical psychologist, executive coach and team flow expert. He currently works with Dr. Michael Gervais and his team of coaches at Finding Mastery and is focused on enterprise size high-performance mindset training around the globe.Brent spent years researching what he calls "the dark side of flow"—and what he discovered challenges everything we've been taught about high achievement and peak performance.Flow states feel incredible. They're optimal for performance. The neurochemical cocktail they create—dopamine, norepinephrine, endorphins, anandamide, serotonin—makes us feel invincible. But Brent's groundbreaking research revealed something most performance coaches won't tell you: flow can also create addiction to peak experiences, lead to burnout and depression, cause us to neglect our relationships and values, and make ordinary life feel unbearable.As the former Head Peak Performance Coach at Flow Research Collective, working under New York Times bestselling author Steven Kotler, Brent trained thousands of "corporate athletes"—Olympic athletes, Navy SEALs, startup CEOs, hedge fund managers, engineers, doctors, and creatives. He taught them how to access flow. But his most profound insight didn't come from a lab or a boardroom. It came from living in Buddhist monasteries in India, where he learned that sustainable high performance requires something radically different from what the hustle culture preaches.The insight: We need to learn to cycle between flow-state and mindfulness. Flow gives us focused execution and optimal performance. Mindfulness gives us emotional regulation, behavioral flexibility, and the ability to stay connected to what truly matters. In this conversation, Brent—now a father of two, licensed clinical psychologist, and ultramarathon finisher—sits down with host Andy Vasily for a discussion that goes far beyond productivity hacks and performance metrics. They explore:The science of inter-brain synchrony and why our nervous systems literally sync up when we're deeply connected with others—and what this means for team performance, parenting, and leadershipHow to transform suffering into growth using Buddhist teachings and psychological researchThe power of vulnerability in creating real intimacy, and why Brent's decision to share his deepest shame with his now-wife became the foundation of their marriageThe inner narratives that shape our lives more than any external circumstancesWhat legacy really means when you strip away ego, achievement, and societal expectationsAndy and Brent both share deep histories of loss, trauma, and grief. They've both done the hard inner work of rewriting disempowering narratives. And they both understand that the greatest achievements mean nothing if we lose ourselves—and the people we love—in the pursuit of them.Connect With Brent: Website       LinkedIn.      Finding MasteryYou can also connect with Brent by email at: brenthogarth@gmail.com

Some moments don't fade. They wait.In this episode of The Game Inside the Games, Dr. Michael Gervais reconnects with Ricardo Lockette as returning to the Super Bowl setting brings old emotions back to the surface. The conversation moves beyond the game itself into grief, loss, and the weight of moments that never fully resolve.Lockette speaks candidly about the Super Bowl heartbreak, the injury that ended his career, and why public grieving can be harder than physical pain. Drawing on their close relationship, Gervais helps him unpack what those experiences still mean—and how resilience is built in the aftermath, not the moment.This is a raw, human conversation about survival, leadership, and learning how to live with moments that don't come with clean endings._____

The huddle is one of the quietest moments in football—and one of the most revealing. Before the play is called, before anyone moves, a team comes together in a space where trust, tone, and connection matter more than words on a whiteboard.In this episode of The Game Inside the Games, Dr. Michael Gervais and All-Pro wide receiver Brandon Marshall go inside the huddle to explore what really happens in the moments before action. Rather than breaking down strategy or schemes, the conversation focuses on culture—how relationships show up under pressure and how teams signal belief, accountability, and presence when it counts.Drawing on lived experience, Gervais and Marshall examine how the huddle becomes a mirror for a team's inner life. Who speaks. Who listens. How people respond when the moment feels heavy. These subtle dynamics often shape what happens next, long before the ball is snapped.This is a grounded, human conversation about connection, leadership, and shared responsibility. And while the stories come from the highest level of football, the insight applies far beyond the field—to meetings, decisions, and the moments we all face just before we act.Follow Finding Mastery all week as The Game Inside the Games continues to unpack the inner game at global sporting events,, available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen._____________This episode is brought to you by CDW and Microsoft. AI is revolutionizing how work gets done. CDW and Microsoft can play a vital role in unlocking the transformative potential of Microsoft Copilot. By leveraging this technology, organizations can achieve significant productivity gains, enhance innovation and streamline workflows.Unlock opportunities to improve both employee and customer experiences when you partner with CDW to deploy your Copilot solutions. Our experts can help maximize the capabilities of Copilot, by building out roadmaps, use cases, and agent experiences that supercharge efficiency for your organization. Aka.ms/CDWMicrosoftCopilotLearn more about CDW's internal Copilot adoption story: CDW rolls out Microsoft 365 Copilot to 10,000 employees, reporting 85% productivity gains | Microsoft Customer StoriesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The noise at the Super Bowl can be overwhelming—tens of thousands of voices colliding into a single roar. But the loudest voice a player hears isn't coming from the stands. It's the one inside their own head.In this episode of The Game Inside the Games, Dr. Michael Gervais and All-Pro wide receiver Brandon Marshall sit down with former NFL MVP Cam Newton to explore one of the most overlooked forces in elite performance: self-talk.Rather than revisiting highlights or headlines, the conversation focuses on the internal dialogue that shapes performance in football's biggest moments. From the intensity of the Super Bowl stage to the quieter moments when doubt creeps in, Cam and Brandon share how the words athletes say to themselves can either steady them—or pull them out of the moment entirely.This is a candid, human conversation about confidence, pressure, imagination, and the unseen work required to stay grounded when everything is on the line. And while the stories come from the highest level of sport, the lessons reach far beyond the field—offering insight into how anyone can use self-talk to access their best when it matters most.Follow Finding Mastery all week as The Game Inside the Games continues to unpack the inner game at global sporting events,, available on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen._____________This episode is brought to you by CDW and Microsoft. AI is revolutionizing how work gets done. CDW and Microsoft can play a vital role in unlocking the transformative potential of Microsoft Copilot. By leveraging this technology, organizations can achieve significant productivity gains, enhance innovation and streamline workflows.Unlock opportunities to improve both employee and customer experiences when you partner with CDW to deploy your Copilot solutions. Our experts can help maximize the capabilities of Copilot, by building out roadmaps, use cases, and agent experiences that supercharge efficiency for your organization. Aka.ms/CDWMicrosoftCopilotLearn more about CDW's internal Copilot adoption story: CDW rolls out Microsoft 365 Copilot to 10,000 employees, reporting 85% productivity gains | Microsoft Customer Stories_____________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Gee Scott joins the show to start the hour and talk a little more on the Seahawks and the injury of Nick Emmanwori. After that, Seahawks safety Coby Bryant hops on to share what stands out about the Patriots, the excitement of playing in the Super Bowl and much more. Then, Dr Michael Gervais sits down to share some really unique tidbits on the Seahawks and Mike Macdonald.

Michael Gervais, Jay Glazer join the show live from Super Bowl LX radio row in Santa Clara! See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Super Bowl isn't just a physical game — it's a psychological one.In this special Game Inside the Games episode, Dr. Michael Gervais is joined by NFL coach Matt Patricia and former All-Pro Brandon Marshall to unpack one of the most defining moments in Super Bowl history: Malcolm Butler's game-winning interception.This episode explores what it looks like to perform under pressure when the whole world is watching. Subscribe and follow along all week as The Game Inside the Games delivers daily episodes leading up to the Super Bowl — revealing the mindset behind elite performance._________________This episode is powered by: Microsoft Copilot, InsightInsight is redefining integration for the Agentic Era by closing the 65% execution gap currently leaving enterprise AI at a standstill. As a leading Solutions Integrator and top 1% Microsoft partner, we don't just provision licenses; we build the high-performance infrastructure and secure data estates AI requires to thrive. By converging AI-optimized networking with our proprietary Radius™ Microsoft 365 Copilot framework, we solve the infrastructure-AI paradox. From silicon to skills, Insight leverages "Customer Zero" expertise to transform software into a high-yield autonomous enterprise—enabling seamless, secure collaboration between your people and your AI.From Hype to How_________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr. Michael Gervais has experienced firsthand how human psychology can break down under pressure. As a teenage competitive surfer, the fear of judgment sabotaged his performance, revealing how mental barriers, not physical skills, silently limit confidence and potential. That early insight led him to study psychology and spend over 25 years helping elite athletes, entrepreneurs, and high performers train their minds. In this episode, Dr. Michael shares proven mental skills to overcome fear of other people's opinions, build confidence from within, and unlock peak performance. In this episode, Hala and Dr. Michael will discuss: (00:00) Introduction (01:25) How Mindset Shapes Human Potential (06:48) Why Elite Performance Is Mentally Driven (10:39) How High Performers Train Differently (17:08) Handling Fear in High-Stakes Moments (19:32) Breathing Techniques for Mental Strength (23:25) The Importance of Imagery for Peak Performance (31:38) The Psychology of FOPO and How to Combat It (43:11) Performance-Based vs. Purpose-Based Identity Dr. Michael Gervais is a high-performance psychologist, bestselling author, and host of the Finding Mastery podcast. He has worked with world record holders, Olympians, internationally acclaimed artists and musicians, MVPs from every major sport, and Fortune 100 CEOs to optimize mindset and performance. Michael is widely known for his work on mastery of self, emotional regulation, and thriving under pressure. Sponsored By: Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/PROFITING  Shopify - Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/hala Spectrum Business - Visit Spectrum.com/FreeForLife to learn how you can get Business Internet Free Forever. Northwest Registered Agent - Build your brand and get your complete business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes at northwestregisteredagent.com/paidyap Framer - Publish beautiful and production-ready websites. Go to Framer.com/profiting and get 30% off their Framer Pro annual plan. Intuit QuickBooks - Start the new year strong and take control of your cash flow at QuickBooks.com/money  Quo - Run your business communications the smart way. Try Quo for free, plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to quo.com/profiting   Working Genius - Take the Working Genius assessment and discover your natural gifts and thrive at work. Go to workinggenius.com and get 20% off with code PROFITING Resources Mentioned: Michael's Podcast, Finding Mastery: bit.ly/F-Mastery  Michael's Book, The First Rule of Mastery: bit.ly/TFROM  Michael's Instagram: instagram.com/michaelgervais  YAP E with Dr. Michael Gervais:  Active Deals - youngandprofiting.com/deals  Key YAP Links Reviews - ratethispodcast.com/yap YouTube - youtube.com/c/YoungandProfiting Newsletter - youngandprofiting.co/newsletter  LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/htaha/ Instagram - instagram.com/yapwithhala/ Social + Podcast Services: yapmedia.com Transcripts - youngandprofiting.com/episodes-new  Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurship Podcast, Business, Business Podcast, Self Improvement, Self-Improvement, Personal Development, Starting a Business, Strategy, Investing, Sales, Selling, Psychology, Productivity, Entrepreneurs, AI, Artificial Intelligence, Technology, Marketing, Negotiation, Money, Finance, Side Hustle, Startup, Mental Health, Career, Leadership, Mindset, Health, Growth Mindset, Habits, Positivity, Human Nature, Critical Thinking, Robert Greene, Chris Voss, Robert Cialdini 

What does it mean to live wisely in a loud, distracted, and often reactive world?Ryan Holiday—bestselling author and modern Stoic philosopher—returns to explore how wisdom actually works… not as a theory or a prize of age, but as a daily practice of reflection, humility, and courage.Ryan breaks down why wisdom takes work, how Stoic philosophy applies to modern parenting and leadership, and why the ability to think deeply and act deliberately might be the rarest skill in today's world. This conversation goes beyond ideas — it's about living wisely when life feels anything but quiet.You'll learn:How to treat wisdom as a practice, not an identityWhy wisdom demands both courage and humilityThe key to raising thoughtful kids in a noisy worldHow to find calm and clarity in times of distraction and divisionWhy discernment is the superpower for the age of AI and misinformation__________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What can world-class level sports learn from therapy, and vice versa? Why should you pursue your “messy edge”? What are the five significant mindsets that we all need to thrive […] The post Stop Worrying About What People Think of You with Dr. Michael Gervais | POP 1335 appeared first on How to Start, Grow, and Scale a Private Practice | Practice of the Practice.

How do you master the psychology of performing under pressure without falling apart? For over 25 years, Dr. Michael Gervais has worked with elite athletes and high performers who look unstoppable on paper, yet crack when the stakes are highest. Through decades of research and coaching, he's uncovered what separates those who rise in high-pressure moments from those who spiral. In this episode, Michael breaks down the mental skills top performers use to stay calm, focused, and creative under pressure, and how entrepreneurs can apply the same frameworks to protect their mental health and perform at their best. In this episode, Hala and Dr. Michael will discuss: (00:00) Introduction (03:13) Mastery of Self in an AI World (06:47) Why Entrepreneurs Need Mental Training (10:25) Practical Ways to Train Your Mind Daily (18:20) Mastering Breath Work and Mental Imagery (27:40) The Psychology of High-Pressure Performance (38:11) Goal Setting Without Fear of Opinions (47:35) Managing Emotions in Leadership (54:56) Building Psychological Safety Within a Team (1:00:10) How to Truly Understand Your Team Dr. Michael Gervais is a high-performance psychologist, bestselling author, and host of the Finding Mastery podcast. He has worked with world record holders, Olympians, internationally acclaimed artists and musicians, MVPs from every major sport, and Fortune 100 CEOs to optimize mindset and performance. Dr. Michael is widely known for his work on mastery of self, emotional regulation, and thriving under pressure. Sponsored By: Indeed - Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/profiting  Shopify - Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/profiting.  Spectrum Business - Visit Spectrum.com/FreeForLife to learn how you can get Business Internet Free Forever. Northwest Registered Agent - Build your brand and get your complete business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes at northwestregisteredagent.com/paidyap Framer - Publish beautiful and production-ready websites. Go to Framer.com/profiting and get 30% off their Framer Pro annual plan. Intuit QuickBooks - Start the new year strong and take control of your cash flow at QuickBooks.com/money  Quo - Run your business communications the smart way. Try Quo for free, plus get 20% off your first 6 months when you go to quo.com/profiting   Working Genius - Take the Working Genius assessment and discover your natural gifts and thrive at work. Go to workinggenius.com and get 20% off with code PROFITING Resources Mentioned: Michael's Podcast, Finding Mastery: bit.ly/F-Mastery  Michael's Book, The First Rule of Mastery: bit.ly/TFROM  Michael's Website: findingmastery.com Michael's Instagram: instagram.com/michaelgervais  Michael's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drmichaelgervais  YAP E287 with Dr. Michael Gervais: youngandprofiting.co/TRBYMAPE287  Active Deals - youngandprofiting.com/deals  Key YAP Links Reviews - ratethispodcast.com/yap YouTube - youtube.com/c/YoungandProfiting Newsletter - youngandprofiting.co/newsletter  LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/htaha/ Instagram - instagram.com/yapwithhala/ Social + Podcast Services: yapmedia.com Transcripts - youngandprofiting.com/episodes-new  Entrepreneurship, Entrepreneurship Podcast, Business, Business Podcast, Self Improvement, Self-Improvement, Personal Development, Starting a Business, Strategy, Investing, Sales, Selling, Psychology, Productivity, Entrepreneurs, AI, Artificial Intelligence, Technology, Marketing, Negotiation, Money, Finance, Side Hustle, Startup, Mental Health, Career, Leadership, Mindset, Health, Growth Mindset, Wellness, Biohacking, Motivation, Manifestation, Brain Health, Life Balance, Self-Healing, Positivity, Happiness, Sleep, Diet

What if the real risk to our health isn't aging itself, but becoming metabolically weak?Dr. Gabrielle Lyon — physician, researcher, and one of the leading voices redefining how we think about health and longevity — shares why muscle sits at the center of lasting strength, energy, and vitality. In this wide-ranging conversation with Dr. Michael Gervais, she explores why health isn't something to manage later with prescriptions, but something to build deliberately through strength and daily discipline.Dr. Lyon's muscle-centric approach reframes aging and performance: real longevity is not about doing less, but building the capacity to do more — with purpose, clarity, and resilience. From the science of protein and training to the psychology of sustainable health, this conversation offers a roadmap to living strong, not just long.You'll learn:Why muscle is the organ of longevityHow to build metabolic health through training and nutritionThe key to balancing strength, performance, and recoveryHow to approach GLP-1 drugs (like Ozempic) with nuance and cautionWhy physical strength fuels mental resilience and purpose_______________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XPre-order The Forever Strong PLAYBOOK and receive exclusive bonuses - https://drgabriellelyon.com/playbook/See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What changes when anxiety shows up—and you stop trying to outrun it, and start learning how to work with it?Dan Harris—journalist, bestselling author, and host of 10% Happier—returns to Finding Mastery to explore practical ways to work with anxiety. Dan unpacks how meditation, compassionate self-talk, and exposure built his capacity after a panic attack on live TV—and why curiosity is a powerful antidote to fear.Dan and Dr. Mike go beyond optimization into the human side: rebuilding from collapse, confronting panic (on planes, elevators, and big stages), and the daily reps that make composure more accessible. This is a grounded look at attention, identity, and training your inner life—without hacks or magical thinking.What you'll learnHow to use meditation as “bicep curls for the brain”Why self-talk (especially in third person) regulates panic in real timeThe key to working at your edge without traumatizing yourselfHow to turn exposure into confidence and capacityWhy curiosity beats cynicism for mental performanceAt its heart, this episode is a reminder: mastery isn't a shortcut; it's alignment between awareness, training, and what matters most._____________________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XDan Harris on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TenPercentHappierSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if peak performance isn't about grinding harder but mastering your inner world? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Michael Gervais, high-performance psychologist and expert to elite athletes and leaders, to talk about what truly drives motivation, focus, and sustainable success. We dive into the science behind activation and anxiety, how to find your intrinsic drivers, and why self-discovery is the foundation of mastery. Michael shares how learning to regulate your nervous system, train your attention, and build mental skills can transform the way you perform under pressure. Get ready to rethink motivation, focus, and what it means to truly master your mind. Check out our sponsors: Northwest Registered Agent - Protect your privacy, build your brand and get your complete business identity in just 10 clicks and 10 minutes! Visit https://www.northwestregisteredagent.com/achieverfree Shopify - Sign up for a $1 per month trial, just go to shopify.com/anxiousachiever Cozy Earth - Give your home the luxury it deserves. Head to cozyearth.com and use code ACHIEVER for up to 20% off. Express VPN - Secure your online data today. Visit expressvpn.com/achiever and find out how you can get up to four extra months. Talkiatry - Head to talkiaitry.com/achiever and complete the short assessment to get matched with an in network psychiatrist in just a few minutes. Working Genius - Take the working genius assessment today and get 20% off with code ACHIEVER at working genius.com In this Episode, You Will Learn 00:00 Why mastering your inner world matters more than external success. 03:15 How anxiety can be trained instead of feared. 06:30 The science behind activation and peak performance. 09:00 Why elite performers don't wait to “feel motivated”. 11:00 How to stop letting the external world control your internal state. 14:30 Why unmanaged stress drains your energy fast. 16:15 The difference between drive and motivation. 18:45 Why do you need both intrinsic vs. extrinsic rewards? 21:00 What truly motivates high performers. 23:30 Why ADHD isn't a lack of attention but equal attention. 27:15 How to train focus and avoid mental burnout. 34:00 Why meditation strengthens attention like a muscle. 37:15 How mindfulness creates insight and wisdom. 39:00 What elite coaches teach about staying coachable. 42:15 Why fear of people's opinions blocks growth. 45:45 What's the difference between performance-based identity vs. purpose-based identity? 49:15 How to build a daily purpose mindset. 52:45 Why purpose doesn't need to be grand to be powerful. 54:30 Tools to regulate anxiety and emotional activation. 56:00 Leadership lessons from Bill Russell on teamwork. Resources + Links Get a copy of my book - The Anxious Achiever Watch the podcast on YouTube  Find more resources on our website morraam.com Follow Follow me: on LinkedIn @morraaronsmele + Instagram @morraam Follow Michael: on LinkedIn @drmichaelgervais + Instagram @michaelgervais

What if everything you thought about optimism was wrong? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Michael Gervais, high-performance psychologist who's worked with the Seattle Seahawks, Felix Baumgartner, and world-class performers across every field. We dive deep into why optimism isn't naive positivity but the ground zero of mental toughness, how Felix overcame crippling claustrophobia to jump from 130,000 feet, and why every world's best performer Michael has worked with is fundamentally optimistic. You'll discover the difference between grounded optimism and naive optimism, why your brain's survival bias is working against you, how to extinguish fear using systematic desensitization, and why mastery requires looseness, not control. Plus, Michael breaks down the power of "yes, and" conversations, becoming a researcher of amazing, and why emotions are running the whole show. If you've ever thought optimism was soft or unrealistic, this conversation will change your mind.Dr. Michael Gervais' Website: https://findingmastery.com/In This Episode:Grab your very own Soundtracks: The Conversations Card DeckMake sure to follow me on Instagram and share with your friends!Keep up with my book list on GoodReads!Sign up for my newsletter, Try This!Book me to speak at your event or to your team!You can grab a copy of my book All It Takes Is a Goal from your favorite bookstore or at my website!Sign up for the Remarkable You Community today!

If you're trying to be productive, what if the answer isn't to do more… but to do less, better?On today's episode, we welcome back Cal Newport — Georgetown computer science professor, bestselling author of Deep Work and Slow Productivity, and one of the most influential voices on focus, sustainable achievement, and the hidden costs of our digital lives. Cal and Dr. Mike pick up where their first conversation left off — exploring why the human brain can't do its best work while juggling five active tasks, how context switching quietly crushes output, and what leaders can do to build cultures that protect focus without adding headcount. On the human side, Cal dives into digital fatigue, rethinking our relationship with phones, and how parents can create healthier tech norms at home. Finally, he looks ahead to AI — not with fear, but with clarity about how it can remove friction and restore our ability to think deeply.In this episode, you'll learn:Why doing fewer things at once leads to faster, better resultsHow to reduce context switching and build deep work into team cultureThe difference between true productivity and “pseudo-productivity”How to counter digital fatigue at work and at home — with different strategies for eachWhat parents should know about phones, social media, and attentionHow AI can actually protect deep work when used wiselyThe heart of this conversation: mastery in the modern world isn't about speed or volume — it's about depth, clarity, and choosing what truly deserves your attention._________________________________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The most powerful way to enter a new year is not with resolutions, but with a deeper understanding of how to connect with the people who matter most.As we close out the year, the Finding Mastery team is taking time to rest, re-calibrate and reflect — practicing the same principles we talk about on this podcast. So today, we're sharing a conversation from the Finding Mastery Vault with two legends in the science of relationships: Drs. John and Julie Gottman.Together, they've spent more than 50 years studying what makes love last — from small moments of connection to the hidden habits that quietly erode trust. In this conversation, we explore the daily rituals that deepen intimacy, how to repair after conflict, and why the best relationships aren't perfect — they're practiced.In this episode, you'll learn:How to turn conflict into closeness through repairThe four behaviors that quietly destroy relationships (and how to replace them)Why “love is a verb” — and what that means in actionThe difference between bids for connection and real listeningHow to communicate needs without criticism or defensivenessFrom the entire Finding Mastery team, we wish you and your loved ones a very happy, healthy New Year. We'll see you in 2026! Enjoy this episode with The Gottmans.________________________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Michael Gervais—a performance psychologist to the world's best—explains how to train your mind like an elite athlete, overcoming imposter syndrome, burnout, and fear of other people's opinions to perform, recover, and live better in a high-stress world.15 Daily Steps to Lose Weight and Prevent Disease PDF: https://bit.ly/46XTn8f - Get my FREE eBook now!Subscribe to The Genius Life on YouTube! - http://youtube.com/maxlugavereWatch my new documentary Little Empty Boxes - https://www.maxlugavere.com/filmThis episode is proudly sponsored by:OneSkin is a skincare company for minimalists utilizing their revolutionary OS-01 peptide which can reverse signs of skin aging according to their research. Visit ⁠http://oneskin.co/max⁠ and use code MAX for 15% off.AX3 Life produces highly bioavailable astaxanthin, dubbed the king of carotenoids and a “longevity vitamin.” Visit http://ax3.life and use code MAX for 20% off.Upgrade your workspace with the new UPLIFT V3 Standing Desk — built to keep you moving, focused, and pain-free while you work. Get four free accessories and an exclusive discount at upliftdesk.com/GENIUS with code GENIUS.

What if the greatest gift you could offer this season isn't something you buy—but rather the way you choose to meet yourself and others—with kindness?As we pause new releases over the holidays, the Finding Mastery team is taking time to rest, reflect, and be with our loved ones — because we believe relationships are part of the practice of mastery itself.So today, we're re-releasing a powerful, audio-only episode from the Finding Mastery Vault: a conversation with THE Sharon Salzberg, one of the world's leading teachers of wisdom, mindfulness and loving-kindness meditation. Sharon shares how love can be trained as an ability, why discernment and gratitude sharpen performance, and how to meet fear without hardening. She also walks us through a simple loving-kindness meditation you can use right away. Her lessons are as relevant now as they were when we first shared this conversation — maybe even more so in a world that could use a little more gentleness right now.So, Happy Holidays from all of us here at Finding Mastery and with that, enjoy this week's From The Vault conversation with Sharon Salzberg.___________________________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sometimes the perfect words show up when you need them most. We start with a surprisingly powerful bit of holiday inspiration from Mr. Rogers — a reminder of kindness and humanity that still resonates today. Source: The World According to Mr. Rogers (https://amzn.to/3RKWfzC) Science is completely rethinking what it means to grow old. It's not just about adding years — it's about adding healthy years. And while diet and exercise play their part, researchers are uncovering far more advanced ways to slow aging at a cellular level. Some of the most intriguing experiments can literally make worms appear younger, think better, and live twice as long. Coleen Murphy, professor at Princeton University and Director of Princeton's Glenn Foundation for Research on Aging, explains where longevity science is heading and what it may one day mean for us. She is author of How We Age: The Science of Longevity (https://amzn.to/3GKDKF5). Most of us have avoided doing something — trying out, speaking up, taking a shot — because we feared what other people might think. That fear is powerful, and it holds people back in ways we rarely acknowledge. High-performance psychologist Michael Gervais joins me to explain why this fear is so universal, how it shapes everyday decisions, and what we can do to break free from it. He is host of the Finding Mastery podcast (https://findingmastery.com/podcasts/) and author of The First Rule of Mastery: Stop Worrying about What People Think of You. (https://amzn.to/3RtsDoW). With the new year approaching, many people start thinking about career moves. We wrap up with the personality traits employers value most — qualities that often matter more than experience or credentials. Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/meghancasserly/2012/10/04/top-five-personality-traits-employers-hire-most/ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! AURA FRAMES: Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://AuraFrames.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ and get $45 off Aura's best selling Carver Mat frames by using promo code SOMETHING at checkout. INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince.  Go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://Quince.com/sysk⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! DELL: Your new Dell PC with Intel Core Ultra helps you handle a lotwhen your holiday to-dos get to be…a lot.Shop now at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://Dell.com/deals ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ AG1: Head to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe!  NOTION: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://notion.com/something⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex's Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. SHOPIFY:  Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at⁠ https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What would change if you stopped trying to push through fatigue — and instead learned what your biology is trying to tell you?On today's episode of Finding Mastery, we sit down with entrepreneur, author, and biohacking pioneer Dave Asprey — founder of Bulletproof, Upgrade Labs, and widely regarded as the father of the modern biohacking movement. This is Dave's second time on the podcast, and it's a nuanced exploration of what it means to live with vitality and consciousness in a world obsessed with optimization.In this episode, Dr. Mike and Dave dig into the science and philosophy behind performance, recovery, and emotional regulation — from neurofeedback and cold exposure to trauma, forgiveness, and redefining what “health” actually feels like. Dave opens up about losing his company, being publicly criticized, and the deep internal work required to find strength and gratitude again. You'll learn:Why “listening to your biology” may be more effective than pushing through fatigue.How Dave used neurofeedback and meditation to recover from collapse and betrayal.The link between emotional regulation, energy, and mitochondrial health.How to think critically about longevity practices — from fasting to peptides.Why darkness, stillness, and sunlight are as vital as any supplement.The conversation bridges biology and self-awareness — asking whether efficiency can coexist with depth, and what mastery really looks like when you align your body, mind, and purpose.Quick note from the Finding Mastery team: The views expressed are the guest's own and do not reflect those of Dr. Mike Gervais or Finding Mastery. This conversation is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not medical advice. Please consult a licensed professional for questions on your own health. Thank you and enjoy the episode.Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Ken sits down with author and performance psychologist Dr. Michael Gervais. Learn practical ways to prevent burnout, the core mental skills elite performers train, and how to rebuild motivation.   Next Steps: ·      

What if the future of work isn't about technology at all — but about unlocking more humanity in each other?On today's episode, we sit down with Kathleen Hogan, Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer at Microsoft, and one of the key architects behind the company's cultural reinvention. Kathleen helped lead Microsoft's shift from a “know-it-all” to a “learn-it-all” culture — embedding empathy, curiosity, and growth mindset across a global workforce of more than 220,000 people.In this conversation, Kathleen and Dr. Michael Gervais explore what it really means to lead with humanity. She shares the moments that shaped her leadership — from facing cancer twice, to redefining success through purpose and connection — and the inner work required to help others unlock their potential.In this conversation, we explore:How Kathleen helped Microsoft reimagine its culture from the inside outWhy purpose and empathy are the foundation of effective leadershipHow to build psychological safety and courage in high-performing teamsWhat it means to lead with curiosity instead of certaintyThe role AI can play in empowering — not replacing — human potentialAt its heart, this episode is a reminder that leadership isn't about knowing more — it's about caring more._______________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindsetFollow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if the key to unlocking peak performance is not pushing harder but mastering the art of mental focus and well-being? I traveled to LA to be at Mastery Labs to unlock the secrets of high performance with Michael Gervais, a renowned expert in mindfulness and psychology. This is our annual Holiday episode of Ultimate Guide to Partnering and my gift to you, our amazing listeners, followers, and community. Michael shares how mental training can revolutionize personal and professional approaches to challenges, from his roots in elite sports to shaping corporate cultures. He explores the pivotal moments that sparked his passion, revealing how psychological skills like confidence and focus can be trained to thrive in any environment. This episode highlights actionable strategies for balancing well-being with ambition, applying insights from sports to business, and using mindfulness to direct focus effectively. With stories ranging from surfing competitions to Microsoft's cultural transformation under Satya Nadella, Michael offers a holistic perspective on performance psychology and sustainable success. Thank you for supporting Ultimate Partner and the Ultimate Guide to Partnering Podcast. Please tell your friends, subscribe, and leave us up to a 5-star Review, as it helps us get more amazing guests.

What does it really mean to live with courage and conviction?On today's episode, we sit down with Dr. John Amaechi — organizational psychologist, New York Times bestselling author, and the first openly gay NBA player. Along his journey, John always set out to be himself in a world that repeatedly told him he was too big, too soft-spoken, too smart, too different. In this conversation, John brings us into parts of his internal world that are hard for any of us to talk about: navigating shame, identity, belonging, and the responsibility of not shrinking so others can stay comfortable. He talks about the cost of visibility, and the radical power of deciding that your worth is not up for negotiation.In this episode, we explore:How to move from clarity to conviction in your personal and professional lifeWhy vulnerability is a core strength of courageous leadershipThe key to creating relationships rooted in empathy and presenceHow to develop moral courage — and know when to walk awayWhat it means to lead from your first principlesThrough stories drawn from sport, psychology, and leadership, John challenges our cultural obsession with individual achievement and redefines what it means to succeed — not by how high you climb, but by how deeply you care and how many people you lift along the way. ___________________________________________________Links & Resources:Subscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindsetFollow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if the key to unlocking peak performance is not pushing harder but mastering the art of mental focus and well-being? I traveled to LA to be at Mastery Labs to unlock the secrets of high performance with Michael Gervais, a renowned expert in mindfulness and psychology. This is our annual Holiday episode of Ultimate Guide to Partnering and my gift to you, our amazing listeners, followers, and community. Michael shares how mental training can revolutionize personal and professional approaches to challenges, from his roots in elite sports to shaping corporate cultures. He explores the pivotal moments that sparked his passion, revealing how psychological skills like confidence and focus can be trained to thrive in any environment. This episode highlights actionable strategies for balancing well-being with ambition, applying insights from sports to business, and using mindfulness to direct focus effectively. With stories ranging from surfing competitions to Microsoft's cultural transformation under Satya Nadella, Michael offers a holistic perspective on performance psychology and sustainable success. Thank you for supporting Ultimate Partner and the Ultimate Guide to Partnering Podcast. Please tell your friends, subscribe, and leave us up to a 5-star Review, as it helps us get more amazing guests.

What if the most powerful thing you can do for your health isn't diet or exercise — but investing in the people you love?Today's episode is from the Finding Mastery Vault — a timeless conversation with Dr. Robert Waldinger, psychiatrist, Harvard professor, Zen master, and Director of the world's longest-running scientific study on happiness.In this conversation, we explore the science of connection — how relationships literally get into our bodies, lower stress, improve our health, and expand our capacity to live well. We also discuss why loneliness can be as dangerous as smoking, and how small acts of social fitness, paired with the courage to be vulnerable, can change the trajectory of your life.You'll learn:How to build “social fitness” and maintain meaningful relationships over timeWhy relationships get into our bodies and improve long-term healthThe science behind loneliness, stress, and emotional regulationWhat it means to live a psychologically rich and purposeful lifeHow leaders can foster connection and belonging at workThis episode is timeless — and a powerful reminder: no one does it alone.________________________________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset!Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if the key to unlocking peak performance is not pushing harder but mastering the art of mental focus and well-being? I traveled to LA to be at Mastery Labs to unlock the secrets of high performance with Michael Gervais, a renowned expert in mindfulness and psychology. This is our annual Holiday episode of Ultimate Guide to Partnering and my gift to you, our amazing listeners, followers, and community. Michael shares how mental training can revolutionize personal and professional approaches to challenges, from his roots in elite sports to shaping corporate cultures. He explores the pivotal moments that sparked his passion, revealing how psychological skills like confidence and focus can be trained to thrive in any environment. This episode highlights actionable strategies for balancing well-being with ambition, applying insights from sports to business, and using mindfulness to direct focus effectively. With stories ranging from surfing competitions to Microsoft's cultural transformation under Satya Nadella, Michael offers a holistic perspective on performance psychology and sustainable success. Thank you for supporting Ultimate Partner and the Ultimate Guide to Partnering Podcast. Please tell your friends, subscribe, and leave us up to a 5-star Review, as it helps us get more amazing guests.

What if the key to becoming a champion isn't about chasing wins—but knowing when to pause, prioritize the inner work, and trust that the rest will follow?On today's episode, filmed in front of a live audience at California Surf Club, we sit down with Caroline Marks — the 2023 World Surf League Women's Champion and 2024 Olympic Gold Medalist. By 23, Caroline has already reached the pinnacle of her sport, becoming one of the most dominant surfers of her generation. But what makes her story remarkable isn't just the medals—it's the emotional and psychological work behind them.In this conversation, Caroline opens up about rebuilding after the heartbreak of Tokyo, the self-doubt that almost sidelined her, and how therapy, family, and faith in herself helped her rediscover her love for surfing. Dr. Mike and Caroline unpack what it means to train not just the body, but the mind—to develop emotional awareness, to redefine success, and to keep the joy alive in high-stakes environments.You'll learn:How to rebuild confidence and purpose after a major setbackWhy emotional awareness is the foundation for high performanceThe key to balancing ambition with inner peaceHow to strengthen trust—in yourself and in othersWhat it means to find motivation after reaching the topWhy mastering your emotions is a major competitive advantageThis is a powerful look into the mindset of a young champion who's rewriting what it means to win...inside and out. Tune in to hear how Caroline Marks is defining mastery on her own terms.________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryLocation: Thanks to California Surf Club, 239 N Harbor Dr, Redondo Beach, CA.Get exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset!Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if the key to unlocking peak performance is not pushing harder but mastering the art of mental focus and well-being? I traveled to LA to be at Mastery Labs to unlock the secrets of high performance with Michael Gervais, a renowned expert in mindfulness and psychology. This is our annual Holiday episode of Ultimate Guide to Partnering and my gift to you, our amazing listeners, followers, and community. Michael shares how mental training can revolutionize personal and professional approaches to challenges, from his roots in elite sports to shaping corporate cultures. He explores the pivotal moments that sparked his passion, revealing how psychological skills like confidence and focus can be trained to thrive in any environment. This episode highlights actionable strategies for balancing well-being with ambition, applying insights from sports to business, and using mindfulness to direct focus effectively. With stories ranging from surfing competitions to Microsoft's cultural transformation under Satya Nadella, Michael offers a holistic perspective on performance psychology and sustainable success. Thank you for supporting Ultimate Partner and the Ultimate Guide to Partnering Podcast. Please tell your friends, subscribe, and leave us up to a 5-star Review, as it helps us get more amazing guests.

What if real success is measured not by what you achieve, but by how deeply you give?On today's episode, we sit down with Gary Sinise—Emmy Award–winning actor and director best known for his roles in Forrest Gump, Apollo 13, and CSI: New York, and founder of the Gary Sinise Foundation—to explore his lifelong arc from self to service.Gary takes us back to the accidental spark of belonging he found in high school theater, the early days building Steppenwolf, and the quiet battle with inadequacy that forged a bias for action and leadership. We trace how portraying Lieutenant Dan in Forrest Gump became an inflection point—culminating in a life-altering moment on stage with 2,000 wounded veterans—and how 9/11 transformed his work into a full-fledged mission to support service members and their families.Gary also opens a tender window into his home front: his wife's battle with breast cancer and his late son Mac's courageous 5½-year fight with chordoma. He shares how showing up—again and again—became a practice, a purpose, and a way through grief.In this conversation, you'll learn:How to turn inadequacy into action—and why a bias toward doing builds real confidenceThe key to shifting from achievement to contribution without losing your driveHow to lead with presence when others seem steps aheadWhy purpose expands through loss—and how faith, family, and service hold the lineWhat it means to show up as a caregiver and “battle buddy” through life's hardest seasonsHow to transform creativity into service—and why art can be an act of healingIf you're craving a reminder that meaning is made in the moments we choose to serve, especially when it's hard, then this conversation will move you.__________________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our YouTube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset!Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Welcome to a special Monday episode on the Finding Mastery channel.Every once in a while, we come across a story or a person that moves us in a profound way — and this is one of those moments.Recently, I was invited by Aaron Lazar to join him on his new podcast, Impossible Dreams. Aaron is an incredible human — a Broadway and television actor, singer, and storyteller — who's facing ALS with extraordinary courage, humor, and grace. He's also pushing toward an almost unthinkable goal: to become the 64th person on record to ever reverse symptoms from ALS.I enjoyed the conversation so much that I knew I wanted to share it with you here on Finding Mastery — to raise awareness, and to honor Aaron's message about purpose, connection, and resilience in the face of life's hardest challenges.Takeaways from this episode:Why mastery of self — not just mastery of craft — changes the way we meet adversity.How awareness, self-talk, and gratitude can shift what's possible in any moment.What it means to move from “my team” to “the team.”How purpose and love become anchors when life feels uncertain.The small, daily practices that help us stay grounded, connected, and alive to what matters most.Enjoy this conversation with Aaron and myself — and let it remind you of the strength that lives inside all of us, even in the storm.____________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset!Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XAaron Lazar: http://www.aaronlazar.com and https://www.youtube.com/@ALImpossibleDreams ALS: www.als.orgSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if your biggest competitive advantage isn't how technologically advanced you are — but how psychologically agile your teams are?On today's episode, we sit down with Matt Garman — CEO of Amazon Web Services — to dig into the leadership frameworks behind one of the world's most innovative companies. We cover his “one-way vs. two-way doors” decision model, why “minimum lovable product” beats perfectionism, and how to push autonomy down while keeping trust and security high.We also explore what's really slowing AI adoption (and why replacing junior employees with AI is a terrible idea), why documents beat slide decks for high-stakes calls, and the long-view energy bets—including nuclear—that AWS believes will shape innovation and sustainability. Along the way, Matt shares the personal side of leading at speed: family dinners, golf as a reset, and the “support then challenge” cadence that helps teams sustain pace without burning out.What you'll learn:How to use the “one-way vs. two-way doors” framework to make faster, smarter decisionsWhy optimism (not naïveté) is a core competitive advantage for innovatorsThe key to shipping a minimum lovable product customers actually wantThe real frictions in AI adoption—and why replacing juniors with AI backfiresWhy long-horizon energy bets (including nuclear) matter for innovation and sustainabilityIf you're leading in a fast-moving world—or want to—this conversation offers practical frameworks and a shot of grounded optimism to help your team move faster, smarter, and with more heart.__________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset!Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if the real challenge of creativity isn't coming up with ideas… but creating the conditions where people believe in them enough to fight for them?Today, we sit down with Neal Arthur, Global CEO of Wieden+Kennedy, the iconic creative agency behind culture-shaping work from Nike's “Just Do It” to Coca-Cola and McDonald's. Neal leads one of the world's most inventive creative agencies, yet his lens on creativity isn't about chasing brilliance. It's about building the trust, safety, and belonging that allow great ideas to surface — and stick.We dig into how he unlocks creativity in a world changing rapidly with AI: the tension between stability and risk, how leaders create conditions for honesty, and what AI means for the future of creativity and culture. We also get personal: how growing up feeling “othered” shaped Neal's obsession with belonging and creative safety, why pressure rarely produces great work, and how optimism, resilience, and humility fuel constant reinvention.In this episode you'll learn:How to create conditions where pressure drops and creativity rises—even on deadlineWhy being “in it” with your team beats top-down mandates for great workThe key to using AI right now: shrink the problem, play, tweak, learnWhy “hard on the work, soft on the people” scales creative excellenceHow to navigate risk vs. stability when the future (especially with AI) is uncertainIf you care about unlocking world-class ideas in a rapidly changing world, this one is for you._____________________ Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset!Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if the key to deeper connection isn't in what you say — but in how your body speaks, listens, and moves?On today's episode, we sit down with Vanessa Van Edwards — behavioral researcher, bestselling author, and founder of Science of People. A self-described “recovering awkward person,” Vanessa turned social anxiety into a science-backed toolkit anyone can use to improve communication, connection, and leadership. Vanessa studies what happens beneath words: how posture, tone, eye contact, and presence shape how we're perceived and how we make others feel.Together, we explore the subtle science of connection — from how warmth and competence support charisma to the micro-cues that determine trust, likability, and confidence. This is an episode for anyone who wants to show up with authenticity, read the room better, and make their communication more impactful.In this episode, you'll learn:How to use posture and physical space to project calm confidenceWhy warmth must come before competence to build trust fastHow to eliminate vocal fry and question-inflection for stronger communicationThe key to spotting and disarming contempt before it festersHow to teach kids “micro social skills” that build courage and connectionIt's a grounded, science-backed guide to showing up with more presence — and helping others feel at ease in your orbit. ____________________________________________________Links & ResourcesSubscribe to our Youtube Channel for more conversations at the intersection of high performance, leadership, and wellbeing: https://www.youtube.com/c/FindingMasteryGet exclusive discounts and support our amazing sponsors! Go to: https://findingmastery.com/sponsors/Subscribe to the Finding Mastery newsletter for weekly high performance insights: https://www.findingmastery.com/newsletter Download Dr. Mike's Morning Mindset Routine: findingmastery.com/morningmindset!Follow on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, and XSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.