Podcasts about palm tree pod co

I've known Jenny Smith since the early 2000s, back when I was a brand-new pro mountain biker watching her absolutely dominate at Nationals. She's been a mentor, a competitor, a mom who kept racing when that wasn't common, and someone I've always admired for her longevity in sport.In this episode, Jenny and I talk honestly about aging as female endurance athletes, especially navigating perimenopause, hormone changes, recovery shifts, strength training, anxiety, inflammation, and evolving expectations.We discuss how training needs to change as estrogen fluctuates and why strength training becomes even more important for bone health, metabolic health, and performance. Jenny shares the reality of needing more recovery, setting goals that reflect your life stage and responsibilities, and how to embrace aging with flexibility, wisdom, and self-compassion instead of fear. Plus, we cover hormone replacement therapy and getting medical support.This conversation is for women who love endurance sport and want to keep performing, not by pretending nothing is changing, but by adapting. Aging doesn't mean decline, it can mean agency.Here's what you'll learn:Perimenopause changes training needsStrength training is non-negotiable for aging athletesRecovery matters more than everGoal setting must evolve with life stageAging brings wisdom and agencyLINKSFollow Jenny Smith CoachingLearn more about Aim High PerformanceAuthenticity and managing pressure with Sarah SturmAging athletes with Joel FrielHow women should train differently with Dr. Stacy Simms--------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

The most valuable skill I've ever learned isn't about performance, mindset, or even resilience. It's communication.In this solo episode, I'm teaching you one of the most powerful tools I use as a coach, mentor, professor at the University of Pennsylvania, keynote speaker, parent, and partner. It comes from motivational interviewing and it's called OARS: Open-ended questions, Affirmations, Reflective listening, and Summarizing.These skills have completely changed how I show up in conversations. They've made me a better coach, teacher, partner, mom, and human.Motivational interviewing is a client-centered communication approach designed to guide people toward what matters most to them. Instead of telling someone what to do (which often undermines autonomy and competence), this framework helps people feel heard, understood, and empowered to make their own decisions.In this episode, I walk you through what active listening really means (and why most of us aren't actually doing it) and how to ask open-ended questions that deepen conversations. I discuss how affirmations and reflective listening builds trust and shared understanding. I also give real-life examples you can use immediately with your partner, your kids, your team at work, or your friends.And yes, we talk about AI. Because as AI handles more intellectual tasks, our human communication skills will matter even more.If you want stronger relationships, better conflict management, and deeper connection in your personal and professional life, this episode gives you one skill to practice today. Top 5 Takeaways:Communication is a partnership, not a directiveOpen-ended questions deepen conversationsReflective listening builds trustAffirmations reinforce strengths and valuesIn an AI-driven world, human communication skills are a competitive advantageLINKS- Learn about meditation from Oren Jay Sofer- Episode on how to be a better communicator--------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

Today, I'm sharing my response to an email I received from a mom named Rachel who is working from home with little kids, about to have another baby, and quietly drowning. Her message took me straight back to a season I don't love remembering, when I was constantly exhausted, burnt out, feeling like I was failing as a mom, a wife, and a human.We talk about the story our culture and universities sell young women about careers, “having it all,” and waiting to build a family, and why I don't think we're being honest about the tradeoffs. So I decided to share what I wish someone had told me at 18 and what I'm trying to model for my daughter, my sons, and even the college girls who babysit for us. And then I take a pretty big pivot into something I cannot shake from my mind.I have hit a breaking point politically. I voted for Donald Trump three times and have defended him. But the Epstein files, the protection of powerful people, and the way both parties seem willing to look the other way when kids are involved has pushed me to a place I didn't expect to land. This isn't about party loyalty for me anymore, it's about children. And as a mom, I'm struggling to reconcile that with how our country is actually being run.I don't have all of the answers, but I'm working through the questions out loud. From family, cultural lies, responsibility, and what I want the next generation of girls (and boys) to know before they end up in the same traps we did.- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

What do a hypnotized high-school wrestler, Olympic athletes, and modern neuroscience all have in common? In this episode of The Mental Training Lab, I sit down with Dr. David Spiegel, one of the world's leading experts in clinical hypnosis, to clear up the myths, misunderstandings, and stage-show baggage surrounding hypnosis. Next, we explore how it's actually being used to reduce pain, manage stress, improve sleep, and enhance high-level performance.We unpack how hypnosis works in the brain (including its effects on attention, dissociation, and the default mode network), and why hypnosis is best understood as an intentional, goal-directed mental skill, not mind control.David shares remarkable clinical and performance stories, from eliminating chronic migraines to helping athletes access high quality focus under pressure. We also explore how hypnosis complements meditation, where the two differ, and why hypnosis can sometimes create rapid change where other practices haven't.If you're interested in performance, well-being, or the science of attention and intentionality, this conversation may completely change how you think about hypnosis.Learn more about Reveri, David's self-hypnosis app, and get 20% off yearly or lifetime memberships with code MENTAL20: reverihealth.app.link/mental- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Learn more about The Mental Training LabConnect with Pete on Instagram | LinkedIn | WebsiteSubscribe to the podcast on Apple | Spotify This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.

Many of us know what burnout looks like: exhaustion, cynicism, and the feeling that we simply can't keep going. But there's another state that shows up far more often and it's easier to miss. It's called brownout.In this episode, I sit down with Jessie Reese, leadership and executive development specialist and positive psychology practitioner, to unpack the critical difference between brownout and burnout, and why so many high-achieving people, especially women, are quietly living in that in-between space.Jess shares her environmental alignment model, a practical framework that helps you see how all parts of your life (work, caregiving, relationships, health, identity, and invisible labor) draw from the same energy reservoir. Together, we explore why adding more self-improvement often backfires, and why the most powerful move is often asking a different question: “What is the most impactful thing I can do to relieve pressure right now?”We also talk about the cultural pressure to “do it all,” why trying to make everything a top priority leads to depletion, and how real alignment requires honest reflection on your values, not an external definition of success or a past version of yourself.If you're feeling stretched thin, quietly overwhelmed, or wondering why rest doesn't seem to work anymore, this conversation will help you name what's happening and give you a clearer path forward.My Top 5 TakeawaysBrownout often comes before burnout and it's easier to miss because you're still functioning.Your energy reservoir is shared across your whole life, not just work.Relieving pressure is more effective than adding habits when you're depleted.You can't make everything the #1 priority and trying to do so leads to misalignment.True fulfillment requires redefining “having it all” based on your current values, constraints, and season of life.Jessie's Links and Work:Connect with Jessie on LinkedIn  Read Jessie's MAPP Capstone The Tipping Point: Executive Burnout, Brownout, and Realignment MAPP Magazine Article - Running on Half Power: Why Women Burnout and How to Reclaim Alignment by Jessie Reese --------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

What if the biggest lie women are sold isn't “have it all”…but “you can have it all at the same time”?This week on Being Different, I sit down with Kate Zepernick — Georgia Tech grad, former consultant, high-achiever, and now mom — to talk about the stuff ambitious women are usually too polite (or too scared) to say out loud.Kate's lived the whole arc: the full-time grind, the “part-time” job that wasn't actually part-time, the strategic career pivots, and eventually the decision to step away without losing herself in the process.We get into:- Why one kid is hard, but two kids changes everything- Why daycare and childcare conversations make people weirdly defensive- Why high-achieving women wait for permission to choose their families- What it actually feels like to lose the praise and identity that come with work- The gray, underused middle ground between full-time careers and staying home- And the uncomfortable truth that a lot of families don't really have the choices we pretend they doThis episode is for the woman who's tired, conflicted, and quietly resentful of her job… but also terrified of who she'll be without it.If this conversation makes you feel seen and a little called out, good. That usually means you're finally being honest with yourself.Hear more from Kate on her podcast, The Momentum Show for Moms in Leadership and connect with her on Instagram @momentum.by.kate- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

It's officially the Olympics season, and I was stoked to join endurance athlete Travis Macy and Olympic ski mountaineer Cam Smith to talk about the mental skills behind peak performance. This episode is shared here on the Mental Training Lab feed as part of a crossover with Skimo Gold, and I'm excited to bring this conversation to you. We get into what it truly means to train your mind like an Olympian. And that means for any moment where pressure, uncertainty, or expectations are high. Not just on race day.You'll learn:How elite athletes stay present when the stakes are highWhat effective visualization actually looks like (and where it often goes wrong)How to avoid spiraling into outcomes and future thinkingWays to build confidence without tying it to resultsHow to coach yourself with a healthier, more supportive inner voiceWhile the examples come from endurance sport and ski mountaineering, the mental skills we discuss apply far beyond athletics. These are tools for leaders, parents, coaches, and anyone trying to show up more grounded and intentional under pressure.- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Learn more about The Mental Training LabConnect with Pete on Instagram | LinkedIn | WebsiteSubscribe to the podcast on Apple | Spotify This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.

Send a textFive days into deployment as a Marine infantry officer, a live-fire training accident severed Captain Patrick Nugent's sciatic nerve and paralyzed his right leg. What most people called “the worst thing that could ever happen” became the turning point for everything that came next.Patrick is a Marine veteran, Invictus Games athlete, Harvard Kennedy School and Wharton grad, Boston Consulting Group consultant, and future Paralympic hopeful. And in this episode of Consequence of Habit, he joins JT to talk about grit, habits, and cognitive reappraisal: the ability to literally rewrite the story you tell yourself about adversity.Patrick walks through the injury, the brutal recovery at Walter Reed, and the decision to treat his situation not as an ending, but as an opening. They dig into keystone habits, goal-tracking, stoic philosophy, and why believing “this might be the best thing that ever happened to me” changed his life. If you're facing something that feels defining or impossible, this conversation will give you a new lens, and a roadmap. - - - - - - - - - - -Support Consequence of HabitSubscribe: Apple Podcast | SpotifyCheck us out: Instagram | Twitter | WebsiteThe show is Produced and Edited by Palm Tree Pod Co.

This week's solo episode is sort of a follow-up to what I talked about last week about the show Landman. I wanted to spend more time on the character Rebecca, because she represents the version of woman I spent years trying to become. High-powered, serious, competitive, in control. The kind of woman we're told to admire if we want to be respected. What I didn't see at the time was how much of that mindset I was bringing home with me, and how destructive it was to my marriage and my family.I talk about how being trained to compete like a man at work changed the way I related to my husband, how I turned into a control freak, and how I couldn't turn that off once I became a mom. I wanted to believe I could just set boundaries but my work consistently came before my kids even though I hated that about myself. None of this is about saying women shouldn't work or that ambition is bad, it's about being honest with the reality of certain careers and personalities, and how pretending they don't follow you home is a lie I believed for a long time.In the second half of the episode, I talk about the Epstein files, the work my friends Nick Bryant and Alicia Owen are doing with Epstein Justice, and what it's been like to come to terms with how abuse, trafficking, and blackmail actually operate in the real world. Not in a sensational way, but in quiet, protected systems that don't seem to face consequences. I'm honest about how much anger and disillusionment that brought up for me, especially when it comes to politics, power, and the people we're taught to trust.This episode is me saying out loud what I wish I had understood earlier about success, power, family, and the trade-offs no one wants to talk about.- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

On this week's solocast I'm taking a hard look at the way motivation and discipline are talked about online — and why a lot of the popular advice actually works against long-term performance.You've probably seen the posts: discipline beats motivation, motivation is weak, success is just showing up no matter what. It all sounds tough and inspiring… until you actually try to live it. And then burnout, inconsistency, and frustration start creeping in.So let's unpack the fundamental misunderstanding behind those messages and explain why discipline without motivation is like a car without gas. Discipline isn't the enemy, but it's not the fuel either.I break down:What discipline actually is (and what it isn't)A practical, usable definition of motivationWhy framing discipline as punishment leads to burnoutHow self-determination theory explains the different “flavors” of motivationWhy elite performers don't rely on just one source of driveHow to build a hybrid system that keeps you consistent and resilientWhen being “disciplined” actually means backing off instead of pushing harder If you've ever felt like you should be more disciplined, or wondered why motivation seems to disappear right when you need it most, this episode will help you reframe both — without shame, without hype, and with tools you can actually use.As always, if something here resonates (or if you disagree), I'd love to hear from you. You can reach me at drkcoaching.com and let me know what landed.- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Learn more about The Mental Training LabConnect with Pete on Instagram | LinkedIn | WebsiteSubscribe to the podcast on Apple | Spotify This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.

In this Mindfulness in Action episode, I'm sharing a spontaneous trail-side reflection on something that's been very present for me lately: how we manage drive without burning out and how we stay truly connected in a world that keeps telling us to “go bigger.”I talk about rethinking social media impact, why I'm increasingly prioritizing local and real-time connection, and how and asking better questions can completely change the quality of our relationships. I also share some simple practices I've been using, like voice memos and short phone calls, to stay meaningfully connected without adding more pressure or noise.Synchronous, human connection matters so much for feeling valued. That's why I wanted to explore how curiosity helps us move beyond surface-level interaction, and why small, intentional shifts can have a bigger impact than trying to reach everyone, everywhere.I close with a short mindfulness practice you can do anywhere to help you reconnect with your body, reflect on when you feel most connected to others, and take one small step toward more meaningful connection in your everyday life.You'll learn to:Ground into your body, even while in motionReflect on when you feel most connected to othersIdentify one small step you can take to create deeper, more meaningful connection offlineOther meditations:– Slowing Down the Rush– How to Regulate Your Emotions for Resilience and Performance– How to Combat Self-Criticism--------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

This week on Being Different, it's just me and a TV show I didn't expect to mess with my head the way it did.My husband and I started watching Landman, and I found myself annoyed, intrigued, defensive, and—eventually—forced to look at myself. The way women are portrayed. The roles men and women fall into. The things we're allowed to say out loud… and the things we're definitely not.I talk through what the show made me question about femininity, marriage, effort, and something I've been pushed on for years but resisted until recently: tone. Not changing what I say, but how I say it, especially at home.There's also a controversial college dorm storyline that hit on exactly where I think our culture is breaking down, and one moment in particular that surprised me in the best way.I don't agree with everything the show is saying. But I do think it's asking questions we've stopped letting ourselves ask. And this episode is me thinking through those questions in real time.If you're left, right, feminist, not feminist, or just exhausted by the noise—this one's probably going to hit a nerve.- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

What happens when the Mental Training Lab host hands over the mic? I'm your host Pete Kadushin, and in this special reverse interview episode, I'm interviewed by psychiatrist, meditation teacher, and longtime contemplative practitioner Holly Rogers. The conversation grew organically out of our previous episode together, one that sparked more questions, deeper curiosity, and the realization that it was time to balance the scales.Together, Holly and I explore how contemplative practices like mindfulness and meditation have shaped my personal life and professional path—from grad school, to working with elite athletes, to my current role in learning and development with the Chicago Blackhawks. I open up about vulnerability, presence, impermanence, and why mental performance work increasingly feels like sacred work rather than a set of techniques.This episode is an honest, reflective look at what it means to practice what we teach. And how slowing down, paying attention, and trusting the process can lead to more meaningful performance, deeper relationships, and work that truly lights us up.Whether you're a coach, athlete, leader, or simply someone curious about how contemplative practices can change the way you show up in the world, this conversation offers insight, humanity, and permission to explore your own path with a little more trust.- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Learn more about The Mental Training LabConnect with Pete on Instagram | LinkedIn | WebsiteSubscribe to the podcast on Apple | Spotify This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.

One of the things I love most about podcasting is getting to have the conversations I wish more people could hear, especially the ones that normalize what so many of us quietly struggle with.I sit down with my friend and fellow MAPP grad Corinne Kneis, a psychotherapist and wellness educator whose work beautifully bridges empathy, mindfulness, ADHD, and anxiety.Corinne and I first met during the Master of Applied Positive Psychology program at the University of Pennsylvania, and I've long admired how she brings both science and humanity into her work. In this conversation, we explore what empathy really looks like in therapy and everyday life, why so many women mask ADHD with anxiety and perfectionism, and how mindfulness can help create space between emotional overwhelm and thoughtful response.We also talk openly about sensitivity, burnout, overfunctioning, and the strengths that often come with ADHD—like curiosity, passion, and love of learning. Corinne shares practical tools therapists use (and that anyone can apply) to regulate the nervous system, manage anxiety, and build healthier relationships with their emotions.Whether you're navigating anxiety, ADHD, burnout, or simply want more emotional clarity and self-compassion, this episode offers grounded insight and actionable strategies you can start using right away.Top 5 TakeawaysEmpathy has two forms. Understanding the difference between affective (emotional) and cognitive empathy can reduce burnout and increase compassion.Many women mask ADHD with anxiety. Perfectionism and overfunctioning are often coping strategies, not character flaws.Mindfulness creates space. Simple practices can help separate emotional reactions from cognitive responses.ADHD is not a deficit. Differences often come with powerful strengths like curiosity, passion, and creativity.Structure + play matter. Routines, humor, and nervous system regulation are essential tools for emotional well-being.Learn More about Corinne Below:Flourish Psychotherapy by Corinne KneisFollow Along with Corinne on InstagramConnect with Corinne on LinkedIn--------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

Something about the way we do school for children just isn't working, so it's time to talk about it. This week, I sit down with Dr. Jack Talmadge, Head of School at Episcopal School of Knoxville, to talk candidly about education, play, and why so many kids struggle in environments that demand stillness, compliance, and constant performance.We talk about play-based and place-based learning, why movement actually helps kids focus, and how “sit still and listen” somehow became synonymous with being a good student. Jack shares his own experience growing up in a high-pressure academic environment, how an undiagnosed learning difference nearly crushed his confidence, and how one teacher changed everything.We also tackle:Why play is dismissed as fluff instead of recognized as foundationalHow quickly kids get labeled when the environment doesn't fit themThe quiet damage of standardized testing—for kids and teachersWhy college has become the default, even when it clearly shouldn't beAnd what happens when we value relationships more than rigid systemsThis isn't about tearing education down or blaming teachers. It's about being honest enough to admit that the system wasn't built for every kid, and maybe it's time we stopped acting like the kids are the problem.If you've got a story about education, or strong feelings about this conversation, message me on Instagram @beingdifferentwithlizdurham. I want to hear from you!- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

Gratitude is one of the most researched, and misunderstood, topics in psychology.In this episode of Grow the Good, I sit down with Dr. Bob Emmons, one of the world's leading gratitude researchers, for a candid, nuanced conversation about what gratitude really is, where it comes from, and how it shapes our striving, relationships, and sense of meaning.What makes this conversation especially rich is Bob's journey. Long before he became known for gratitude research, his work focused on striving, goals, and purpose. It's a foundation that deeply informs how he thinks about gratitude today. Bob and I explore how research often reflects our own life questions (“research is me-search”), and how gratitude emerged for Bob not just as an academic interest, but as a personal turning point.We unpack why gratitude isn't about forced positivity, how entitlement quietly erodes well-being, and why authentic gratitude helps us see what (and who) we might otherwise take for granted. We also discuss the emotional depth of gratitude: how fully waking up to life means experiencing both joy and sorrow more deeply.As we head into a new year, this episode is for anyone who wants a more honest, grounded understanding of gratitude. I hope it brings you an understanding that strengthens relationships, deepens meaning, and supports growth without bypassing real emotion.Top 5 TakeawaysGratitude is deeper than thankfulnessEntitlement is the enemy of gratitudeGratitude can coexist with hardshipHealthy gratitude requires balanceGratitude strengthens relationships and mentorship--------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

In today's solocast, I explore one of my favorite mental training mantras: “No big deal.”We look at how quickly we label experiences as good or bad, and how those judgments (often made without the full story) can quietly hijack our nervous system, emotions, and performance. Using a classic Zen parable alongside examples from sport, I unpack how unexamined thoughts start to feel like reality, and what happens when we learn to loosen our grip on them.We also examine how “no big deal” isn't about dismissing your experience, but about creating space to feel what you feel, unhook from unproductive thinking, and re-orient toward your values and intentions so you can stay present and perform what's actually in front of you.- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Learn more about The Mental Training LabConnect with Pete on Instagram | LinkedIn | WebsiteSubscribe to the podcast on Apple | Spotify This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.

In this special Mindfulness in Action episode, I'm sharing a very personal reflection from the trails of Squamish, BC where muddy puddles, forest quiet, and time on the bike create space for clarity.For the first time in over 22 years, I've made the decision to step away from competitive bike racing. Not because I can't race, but because my life, priorities, and sense of fulfillment have shifted.In this off-the-cuff, honest conversation, I reflect on what it means to let go of an identity you've held for decades, how task-focused mindfulness has shaped my thinking, and why courage sometimes looks like choosing less instead of more.This episode isn't just about sport. It's about transitions, motivation, family, mattering, and learning to listen to yourself when something inside is asking for change.If you're navigating a transition, feeling stretched thin, or questioning what really matters in this next season of your life, I hope this episode helps you slow down, reflect, and reconnect with what's true for you.Top 5 TakeawaysMindfulness isn't passive, it's active presence. Being fully engaged in the task at hand (not self-evaluation) can unlock clarity and joy.Identity transitions are uncomfortable, but necessary. Letting go of who you've been creates space for who you're becoming.Motivation changes with life seasons. What once fueled you may no longer fit, and that's not failure.Doing less can be a powerful choice. Fulfillment doesn't always come from pushing harder or doing more.Reflection reveals values. Emotions like envy, fatigue, or resistance often point toward what truly matters.Other Mindfulness in Action Episodes:- Slowing Down the Rush- How to Regulate Your Emotions for Resilience and Performance- How to Combat Self-Criticism--------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

What if improving your well-being didn't require more time, effort, or productivity, but simply a deeper relationship with the world around you?I'm your host Sonya Looney, and in this episode of Grow the Good, I'm joined by nature connectedness researcher Dr. Holli-Anne Passmore and well-being practitioner Molly Peterson for a rich, science-backed, and deeply human conversation about how our relationship with nature shapes our mental health, meaning, and sense of presence.Together, we explore what nature connectedness really means, and why it's not about hiking more miles or living in the wilderness, but about attention, intention, and emotional connection. Sonya shares personal stories about how nature has helped her regulate, heal, and reconnect during demanding seasons of life, while Molly and Holli-Anne bring powerful research and practical tools listeners can use immediately.This episode is for anyone feeling overstimulated, disconnected, or craving more meaning in everyday life, whether you live in the mountains, the city, or somewhere in between.Top 5 TakeawaysNature connectedness is about relationship, not timeSmall, daily moments with nature (plants, clouds, light, birds) can significantly boost well-being and presence.Technology can either enhance or erode nature connection, depending on how intentionally we use it.Character strength amplify nature's benefits, increasing meaning and transcendence.Early and intentional exposure to nature, especially in childhood and family life, predicts lifelong well-being and environmental care.--------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

Lately, I've been thinking about peace and realizing how terrible I am at it.Christmas is supposed to be joyful, but I'm stressed out, overwhelmed, and turning into a version of myself I don't even like. We're obsessed with being busy and perfect, and it's messing everything up.I caught myself being completely un-peaceful more times than I want to admit and had to call my own bullshit on it. So sorry, this episode isn't some feel-good pep talk. It's me being real about where I'm at, what I'm trying to unlearn, and why I'm done with chaos in 2026.That's all.Merry Christmas!- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

In this episode of Mental Training Lab, I sit down with psychiatrist, meditation teacher, and author of The Mindful Twenty-Something,  Dr. Holly Rogers. We're breaking down how mindfulness and meditation can transform our relationship to the present moment, performance, and our lives as a whole. Holly has spent decades working with college students, emerging adults, and high performers, helping them use Vipassana (mindfulness) meditation not as a relaxation tool, but as a mental training and nervous system regulation practice. We dig into what mindfulness actually is (and isn't), why it's not about “clearing your mind” and more about expanding your stretch zone so you don't tip into overwhelm when it matters most.We also get personal. I share how these practices have helped me transform my relationship with self-criticism, including a moment where I found myself unexpectedly in tears on the cushion, able to meet a younger version of me, and his “wrestler mindset” with compassion instead of judgment. Holly brings in 30 years of clinical experience to bust the myth that being kinder to yourself will make you soft or lazy and explains why she's never once seen that happen.If you're an athlete, coach, or high performer who's curious about mindfulness, meditation, self-compassion, performance, and resilience, this conversation offers practical tools, science-backed insight, and very human stories to help you start (or restart) your own practice in a doable, sustainable way.- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Learn more about The Mental Training LabConnect with Pete on Instagram | LinkedIn | WebsiteSubscribe to the podcast on Apple | Spotify This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.

Why do we sometimes feel mentally exhausted even when our bodies are rested? I'm your host Sonya Looney, and in this episode of Grow the Good, I'm joined by neuroscientist Dr. Scott Frey and former professional cyclist Brent Bookwalter to dig into the science of central (brain) fatigue, life transitions, and how to balance performance with well-being.Through stories from elite sport, neuroscience, and personal growth, Scott, Brent, and I explore how understanding brain fatigue can help us better navigate change, maintain motivation, and thrive through life's transitions.I've been through this. You'll hear about when I realized that my high need for mental stimulation was impacting my racing performance, and how learning about mental fatigue helped me reframe training and recovery in both sport and life.Whether you're an athlete, professional, or parent trying to “do it all,” this conversation will help you understand your brain's limits and unlock tools to work with your mind, not against it.Top 5 Takeaways:What is Central Fatigue?Mental Energy is FiniteTransitions Require CompassionRest is a SkillSelf-Awareness Fuels Growth--------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

In today's solocast, we hit the slopes and explore the transformative power of acceptance through my own experience of learning to ski. We touch on how embracing the possibility of injury actually unlocked my ability to be present to the joy of skiing, and 10x'd my skill level after a decade away from the sport.We also look at some of the reliable barriers to acceptance and outline a couple of practices to help create more acceptance in your life.- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Learn more about The Mental Training LabConnect with Pete on Instagram | LinkedIn | WebsiteSubscribe to the podcast on Apple | Spotify This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.

What makes relationships truly thrive, not just survive? In this episode of Grow the Good, I sit down with Suzie Pileggi Pawelski, positive psychology expert and co-author of Happy Together: Using the Science of Positive Psychology to Build Love That Lasts, to explore how strengths, gratitude, and intentional effort create lasting connection.Suzie shares her evidence-based framework for building flourishing relationships using character strengths, gratitude, and virtue. We talk about how to balance differences, embrace vulnerability, and move beyond “utility-based” love into Aristotelian “love of goodness.” I also share some of my own reflection, from learning to appreciate my husband Matt's different strengths, to maintaining intimacy while raising kids.If you've ever wondered how to bring more meaning, patience, and joy into your relationships (romantic or otherwise), this conversation offers both science and heart.Top 5 Takeaways:Relationships Thrive on Strengths: Knowing and celebrating your and your partner's character strengths deepens understanding and connection.Balance and Awareness Matter: Overusing or underusing strengths can create friction, mindful awareness and communication are key.Gratitude and Vulnerability Build Trust: Truly receiving appreciation (without deflecting!) strengthens intimacy.Aristotelian Love = Love of Goodness: Building virtue-based relationships elevates love beyond utility or pleasure.Relationships Require Practice: Like going to the gym, thriving relationships take ongoing intention, curiosity, and growth.LINKSLearn more about Suzie https://www.suzannpileggi.com/about/Read Happy Together https://www.suzannpileggi.com/author2/#happyListen to Love in Your Golden Years https://www.audible.com/pd/Love-in-Your-Golden-Years-Audiobook/B0FJ2V1WL5?source_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp--------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

If you haven't heard the first three conversations I recorded with Major General Terry “Max” Haston, go listen to those now!In Part 4 of my conversation with Major General Terry “Max” Haston, we pick up right where we left off: Pushing past the polite version of leadership and getting into the messy, uncomfortable truth.We talk about what really happens behind the scenes when someone climbs the ranks in the military… the jealousy, the backstabbing, the politics, and the weight of responsibility that nobody outside the uniform sees. Max opens up about becoming a general, losing friends in the process, and why firing people (even people he loved) broke his heart.Then we go straight into the topics everyone tiptoes around: Memphis. Chicago. Crime. National Guard deployments. Veterans. Homelessness. The VA system. Unions. Bureaucracy. What's getting better, what's getting worse, and what flat-out pisses us off.If you've been listening to Parts 1–3, you already know: Max doesn't sugarcoat anything, and I'm not here to interrupt him with polite talking points. I'm here to ask the questions most people are too scared to ask, and he answers them with the honesty of someone who's actually lived it.This conversation isn't meant to change your mind, but it is meant to challenge your thinking. Take what resonates, question what doesn't, and let's get into it.- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

How does stress impact the experience of sport? In this episode of the Mental Training Lab, I sat down with Megan Bartlett, founder of the Center for Healing and Justice through Sport, educator, and faculty member of NM Sport, to explore the fascinating intersection of stress science, sport performance, and human development.Megan's work brings together neuroscience and coaching practice through what she calls biological respect. It's the recognition that our stress responses aren't independent choices, and instead we need to collaborate with our physiology! Together, we talk about how coaches can design environments that support athletes' nervous systems, build resilience, and foster true psychological safety.Megan shares practical, science-based strategies that anyone can use to help athletes regulate, recover, and thrive under pressure. Topics include how relationships buffer stress, how humor and structure aid regulation, and why well-being and performance aren't opposites, rather, they're inseparable.If you've ever wondered how to help your athletes (or yourself) perform better and feel better, this conversation will change how you think about training, recovery, and what it really means to create high performance environments.- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Learn more about The Mental Training LabConnect with Pete on Instagram | LinkedIn | WebsiteSubscribe to the podcast on Apple | Spotify This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.

Today I'm sitting down for an honest reflection about something I've been moving through lately—change, identity, and what it really means to feel like we matter.As I've transitioned away from professional mountain biking being the center of my identity, I've been exploring how to define value beyond performance, productivity, or outside validation. It's been a humbling and deeply human process, one that I know so many of us can relate to.In this episode, I share some personal stories, research on well-being and mattering, and practical tools to help you strengthen your sense of connection and self-worth. We'll talk about how belonging shapes our mental health, why asking for help takes real courage, and how to reconnect with the parts of yourself that don't depend on achievement.If you've ever questioned your worth, struggled through a life transition, or wondered where you fit, this conversation is for you. Let's grow through it together.LINKS:- Adult Children of Emotionally Immature Parents by Lindsay Gibson- The Power of Mattering by Zach Mercurio- Subscribe to the newsletter --------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

It's just me this week and I am here to admit a couple hard truths I'd rather not, but here we are. After skipping out on Career Day at Mac's school I realized I've somehow started to think that being “just a mom” isn't enough, even though I get on this podcast all the time talking about how motherhood is literally the most important job out there. I'm also diving into the hilarious (and slightly alarming) differences between raising boys and girls especially now that Charlie has cracked the code to my phone and is basically a tiny fashion critic with zero filter. Her obsession with screens has me rethinking my own habits and relationship with screens.If you're a mom who needs a reminder that what you do actually matters, or you just want to feel seen in the chaos this one's for you.- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

Bringing meditation into daily life is a different beast. Today's moving meditation will be short, simple—and really hard, because we're taking meditation on the move so you can apply mindfulness to everyday activities like workouts or a quiet hike. In today's episode, I break down how to shift from an ego-focused to a task-focused mindset during physical activities.I'll guide you through techniques to anchor your focus, using sounds from your environment or your own breath, to help maintain mindfulness. This practice isn't just about sitting quietly; it's about integrating mindfulness into every part of your day. Whether you're pushing through a tough workout or enjoying nature, I'll show you how to keep your mind present and engaged.Here's what you'll learn:• Real-World Mindfulness: Learn to extend your meditation practice beyond the cushion and into dynamic activities.• Catching the Wander: Focus on recognizing when your mind drifts and gently guide it back without judgment.• Anchors of Focus: Discover how using simple anchors like sounds or sensations can keep you grounded.• Daily Mindfulness Doses: Implement small, manageable practices of mindfulness throughout your day to enhance cognitive function and reduce stress.Other meditations:- Moving meditation to combat self-criticism- Moving meditation for your next ride--------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

If you haven't heard the first two conversations I recorded with Major General Terry “Max” Haston, go listen to those now!In this third part of my conversation with Major General Terry “Max” Haston, we are not pulling punches. I'm done with surface-level takes and polite conversations. This episode gets into the real, uncomfortable truths about the U.S. military, global power, and what's actually happening behind the headlines.Max shares stories that sound unreal, like hitting golf balls near Saddam's courthouse, and then turns around and breaks down the current state of our military in a way that's impossible to ignore. We get into the hard questions: Are we helping Ukraine or draining ourselves dry? Are China and Russia thinking ten steps ahead while we're reacting to yesterday's problems? And what happens when we place too much faith in technology and forget the basics of actual readiness?We talk Iraq, we talk global conflict strategy, we talk the threats most people don't even know to fear, including what happens if we ever face a true EMP scenario. Max has been in the rooms where decisions get made. He's seen it. He understands it. And he's not sugarcoating a thing.If you want a sanitized, diplomatic conversation, this is not that episode. But, if you're ready to hear what's really going on in the world of modern warfare, buckle up. This might just change the way you see everything.- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

Today's solocast explores the role that negative visualization can play in generating gratitude, wonder, and a connection to the present moment.I share a vivid story from my early days as a mental performance coach, and outline practices that can support you in appreciating your current capacity in a way that will support your growth and best performance.- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Learn more about The Mental Training LabConnect with Pete on Instagram | LinkedIn | WebsiteSubscribe to the podcast on Apple | Spotify This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.

What if resilience isn't enough?In this episode of Grow the Good, I sit down with Dr. Nick Holton and Dr. Adam Wright, co-founders of the Antifragile Academy, to explore how to move beyond just surviving life's stressors and instead use them to grow stronger. Nick and Adam share a science-backed, integrative framework that blends psychology, physiology, and purpose to help you thrive under pressure, navigate transitions, and build a more grounded sense of identity.We unpack the difference between resilience and antifragility, how to reframe volatility as a feature, not a flaw, of growth, and why thriving requires both distress tolerance and meaning. Whether you're an athlete, a high performer, or simply someone who wants to show up better in life, this conversation will expand how you think about potential, identity, and well-being.Top 5 Takeaways:Antifragility vs. resilience: Resilience helps you bounce back; Antifragility helps you grow stronger through challenge.Thriving = pleasantness + distress tolerance: True thriving includes discomfort and meaning, not just happiness.The 4-Lens Framework: Understand yourself through cognitive (top-down), physiological (bottom-up), environmental (outside-in), and values-based (inside-out) perspectives.Identity beyond performance: You are not just what you do. Growth requires detaching self-worth from achievement.Volatility as opportunity: Change, uncertainty, and stress can be leveraged for transformation if you engage intentionally.--------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

This one's probably going to ruffle some feathers, but when do they not? I want to revisit my earlier episode about why we chose not to do my son's summer packet and clarify what I actually meant. It's not about being anti-school. It's about kids being kids, following their interests, and parents having a real voice in their child's education.I'm sharing what happened after that episode aired, including my meeting with my child's school, why I stand by what I said (yes, including the F word), and why I think the conversation around parental partnership, school policies, and childhood itself has gotten so messy.If you're a teacher, administrator, or parent, I would LOVE to actually talk about this. Let's stop being afraid of disagreement and start having real conversations again.- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

In this episode of the Mental Training Lab, I sit down with Dr. Ryan Hamilton, someone who truly lives the work he teaches. Ryan is an Associate Professor of Psychology at the University of New Brunswick, a certified mental performance consultant, and the mental performance coach for the Tampa Bay Lightning and Canadian National Team.Ryan embodies what it means to truly practice what we preach in the world of high performance. He deep dives on a couple of stories from his time working with elite athletes, and shares what it really looks like to walk the talk when it comes to growth, resilience, and relevance.Ryan also shares lessons from his own most recent endurance quest: a 24-hour ultra-marathon challenge that pushed him to the limits of both his body and mind. We get into what that experience taught him about self-awareness and why stretching beyond our comfort zones ultimately makes us better coaches, leaders, and humans.So if you are a coach, consultant, athlete, or anyone who works in a high-performance environment, take a listen. This conversation will challenge you to reflect on your own growth, your blind spots, and your capacity to lead by example.- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Learn more about The Mental Training LabConnect with Pete on Instagram | LinkedIn | WebsiteSubscribe to the podcast on Apple | Spotify This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.

If you haven't listened to part one of this two-part conversation, do that now!Liz sits down with Major General Terry "Max" Haston for the second part of their extraordinary deep dive into military life, leadership, and service. From navigating the challenges of transitioning between military and civilian worlds to sharing intense firsthand experiences in Iraq, Haston offers a raw and unfiltered look at modern military service.  Discover the inner workings of the National Guard, learn about the complexities of military budgeting, and gain insights into leadership from a seasoned commander who believes in teaching over yelling. Whether you're a military enthusiast, history buff, or simply curious about the human stories behind the uniform, this conversation provides a compelling narrative of service, sacrifice, and personal growth. Highlights include: Insider perspectives on military operationsThe realities of deploymentChallenges of leadership and trainingPersonal stories of resilience and adaptationmust-listen for anyone seeking to understand the human side of military service.- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

THIS EPISODE IS A GROW THE GOOD REPLAY // I'll let you in on a secret: communication is not just about talking and using words. It's about listening. Yes, the foundation of communication is being a good listener.As a health and wellness coach, I've received formal training in communication, plus recording over 350 hours of podcasts has been a master class in listening and communication.In today's solo deep dive, I will share strategies and actionable practices to help you become a better listener, approach conflicts with a new mindset, and ultimately, improve your relationships through the power of mindful communication. Struggle with small talk? Stick around and I'll share some tips to spark conversation in any setting.Throughout the episode, we'll draw upon insights from various books on parenting, relationships, and communication, such as nonviolent communication and growth mindset talk. I'll also share my own personal experiences and observations, shedding light on the practical application of these concepts.So, are you ready to supercharge your communication skills and revolutionize your relationships?Here's a breakdown:- Managing conflict with non-violent communication- Respond with a reflection- Asking open-ended questions- Use both/and thinking for feedback and discussion- Affirmation when giving compliments- Validate emotions- Practice active constructive response- Plus, conversation startersLINKS* Check out my newsletter for productivity, mindset, and mental skills* Read more about the Harvard Study of Adult Development--------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

In part one of my conversation with Major General Terry “Max” Haston, we go back to where it all began. Terry grew up in small-town Middle Tennessee, surrounded by family, faith, and a deep sense of duty. He opens up about what life was like in the 1970s, how the Vietnam War shaped his generation, and what drew him to ROTC and a lifetime of service.What struck me most was how clear his purpose was, even early on. From those small beginnings to his first military assignments, you can see the through line of integrity, courage, and commitment that defines his leadership today.If you've ever wondered what true service looks like, or how a leader is shaped long before the uniform, this conversation will stick with you.- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

Today's solocast explores the difference between positivity and optimism, and how positivity can often get in the way of both presence and progress. I also cover how to practice The Stockdale Paradox in real time, and the importance of practicing this shift in mindset in order to create lasting change. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Learn more about The Mental Training LabConnect with Pete on Instagram | LinkedIn | WebsiteSubscribe to the podcast on Apple | Spotify This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.

GROW THE GOOD REPLAY // Though mental well-being is the cornerstone of high-performance, achieving the elusive harmony between mind and body can feel impossible. I recorded this moving meditation as a guide for being mindful while riding a bike; encouraging us to connect with different parts of our body and senses while riding to help us stay focused and present.Together, we'll unleash the potential of blending athletic pursuits with the power of meditation and discover new techniques and practices that will help you achieve the perfect balance between your mind and body. Let's hit the trails together and see if we can find our stride.Here are the key takeaways:What is Moving Meditation: Understand the basic concept, different forms, and why it is essential for athletes.Implementing Moving Meditation: Learn practical tips and techniques to incorporate moving meditation into your training routine. Real-Life Applications: Gain wisdom from personal anecdotes and lessons learned by an elite athlete practicing moving meditation.The Science Behind Moving Meditation: Delve deep into scientific research that supports the positive impact of meditation on athletic performance and mental health.LINKS:Become one of my clients! Health Coaching | Mental Performance CoachingLearn about the science of meditation with Dave VagoFeel skeptical about mediation? Check out this interview with Jeff WarrenEnroll in my Moxy & Grit Mindset AcademyCheck out my newsletter for productivity, mindset, and mental skills--------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

This week I sit down with Michelle Compton, one of the most impactful teachers in my kids' lives, for a conversation every parent needs to hear. Michelle opens up about her journey from public schools to private education, the mentors who shaped her, and why she believes childhood should be full of curiosity, play, and joy.We talk about what's broken in our schools, from standardized testing to one-size-fits-all curriculums, and how she's built a classroom that looks and feels completely different. Michelle shares how Reggio Emilia, inquiry-based learning, and maker spaces are transforming the way kids engage and grow.If you've ever questioned the system or wondered what education could look like when kids (not tests) come first, this episode will challenge and inspire you.- - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

In this episode of the Mental Training Lab, I sit down with Jilyne Jarvis, co-founder and executive director of ZGiRLS, a confidence-building program transforming the lives of middle school girls. Jilyne was a professional ski racer who built a nonprofit that tackles one of the most pressing challenges facing young women (and human beings everywhere) today: self-doubt.We talk about the baby steps and big leaps it takes to bring an idea to life, how to navigate setbacks without losing momentum, and why support systems are essential for personal and organizational growth. Jilyne shares openly about her struggles with self-doubt, how she's learned to balance big dreams with practical action, and why compassion and patience with yourself are critical in the transformation process.Whether you're an athlete, entrepreneur, or leader, this conversation is packed with actionable insights about building confidence, embracing change, and creating impact. If you've ever wrestled with self-doubt or wondered how to move from vision to reality, Jilyne's story may just inspire you to take the next step, no matter how small.- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Learn more about The Mental Training LabConnect with Pete on Instagram | LinkedIn | WebsiteSubscribe to the podcast on Apple | Spotify This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.

Transitions are inevitable. Whether it's becoming a parent, shifting careers, retiring, or simply navigating unexpected change. But why do transitions feel so unsettling, and how can we meet them with more self-compassion and patience?In this episode of Grow the Good, I sit down with my friend and fellow MAPP grad, Ilene Schaffer, to explore the psychology of transitions. With more than 25 years of experience in counseling psychology, Ilene shares her wisdom on navigating endings, sitting with uncertainty in the “neutral zone,” and creating intentional new beginnings.We talk about what it means to let go of old identities, how to clarify your non-negotiables, and why patience and self-compassion are the keys to moving through life's changes with resilience.Top 5 Takeaways:Self-compassion is essential in transitions, whether the change is chosen or not.The “neutral zone” between endings and beginnings is where reflection and growth take place.Defining non-negotiables helps guide decisions during uncertain times.Patience is vital; most transitions take 6–9 months to fully adjust.Fulfillment isn't about balance, it's about intentional choices aligned with your values.Tune in to learn more from Ilene, and hopefully, approach your next transition with a little bit more ease. --------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

On this special crossover episode of Grow the Good, I'm resharing a  conversation with Travis Macy from The Travis Macy Show. - - - - - - - The Travis Macy ShowEp. 195. Perfectionism, Purpose, and Letting Go with Sonya LooneyWhat does it really mean to accomplish something and why doesn't it always feel the way we think it should?This week, I'm joined by my good friend, longtime pro mountain biker, and mindset coach Sonya Looney for a deep and honest conversation about something a lot of us wrestle with, perfectionism.Sonya and I dive into what it means to strive with purpose, how to redefine accomplishment through contribution instead of comparison, and why feeling like we matter isn't always about metrics. We also talk about big transitions, like Sonya's move from full-time bike racing to trail running and mental performance coaching—and the freedom (and fear) that comes with letting go of old identities.If you've ever been stuck chasing numbers, doubting your worth, or wondering if it's okay to want something new, I think you'll find a lot to chew on here. Sonya brings her usual clarity, research-backed wisdom, and vulnerability to the table and I'm always grateful to learn from her!--------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

Choose the Hard Way creator Andrew Vontz (@hardwaypod) in conversation with pro cyclist Payson McElveen (@paysonmcelveen), Red Bull athlete and creator of the With Pace podcast & Riding with Pace YouTube channel.  In a sport filled with mustaches, Payson McElveen has the most famous mustache.  Payson's palmares includes a pair of wins at The Mid South, two marathon mountain bike national championship titles (2017, 2018) and his films and podcast are among the biggest in offroad cycling. His With Pace podcast is a great listen and one of the biggest in endurance sports. His adventure films are hugely popular and cover his own go-fast exploits including a White Rim FKT and an FKT for crossing Iceland under human power, not the power of lightning-bolt throwing deities. But the hardest ride is the one you don't see. There are hundreds of hours of Payson McElveen content out there and for an adventurer like Payson it seemed appropriate and more fun to go into new territory in this conversation. It was a fun one and I'm excited to share it with you.  You can find his podcast With Pace everywhere you listen and get more Payson at www.withpace.cc and @paysonmcelveen on Instagram and YouTube. -------- Whether you've been listening since 2018 or are new here, the number one thing you can do to support this project is to become a paid subscriber to the Choose the Hard Way substack, alwaysthehardway.substack.com or just search for Choose the Hard Way in the Substack app.  -------- The media landscape has changed and long-form podcasts are a mission-critical channel for anyone who wants to connect with their target audience and build influence. Former Strava executive / journalist / startup founder / podcaster Andrew Vontz started One Real Voice to coach senior leaders to meet the moment and be great podcast guests or hosts.  If you have a podcast or are starting one, I also provide strategic guidance to help you create a road map that works today and over time. Set yourself up to win from the beginning and keep on winning with every episode.  -------- When you're ready to be great, DM me @hardwaypod or email hello@onerealvoice.com. Crypto curious? With over $1 trillion in transactions to date, Blockchain.com is your trusted partner on your crypto journey. Go to Blockchain.com to get started today, no experience required. -------- Lauf is the Apple of bike design and they make elegant products that just work better than everything else. Check them out at www.laufcycles.com.  -------- This podcast is also brought to you by my best-in-class partners at Palm Tree Pod Co. They're a full-service podcast studio with end-to-end services to help any brand, business or individual take a strategic approach and standout. Find them at www.palmtreepodco.com.

In this episode, I explore a common motivation pattern that presents itself as people walk the path of mastery. I'll outline the negative motivation model, why we get hooked on being driven by fear, and how it holds us back.Then, I roll out the alternative approach and offer up some practices that will allow you to cultivate more sustainable motivation over time. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Learn more about The Mental Training LabConnect with Pete on Instagram | LinkedIn | WebsiteSubscribe to the podcast on Apple | Spotify This show is produced and edited by the team at Palm Tree Pod Co.

In this episode, I'm joined by my friend and athlete Rachel Popelka better known on Instagram as The Trailside Doc. Rachel is a remote physical therapist, an expedition adventure racer, and an ultra runner who's carved out a life full of bold choices, resilience, and inspired adventure.We talk about her unconventional path into endurance sports, from starting with a 5K to finishing multi-day expedition races, and how she built a career helping athletes stay strong and recover smarter. Rachel shares candidly about her own health struggles, lessons from navigating chronic pain, and the power of positive affirmations, community, and connection with nature.We also dive into the unique PT model she's pioneering working remotely with athletes to blend rehab, strength, and performance training into their everyday programming. I've seen firsthand how powerful it is to have her integrated on an athlete's “team,” collaborating with coaches and bringing PT into TrainingPeaks just like a workout.- - - - - - - - - - -A big thanks to our sponsors:RELEVATE by NeuroReserve: Go to www.neuroreserve.com/travismacy and code TRAVISMACY for 15% off RELEVATE by NeuroReserve: Core Dietary Nutrients for Lifelong Brain HealthHagan Ski Mountaineering- - - - - - - - - - -Purchase A Mile at A Time: A Father and Son's Inspiring Alzheimer's Journey of Love, Adventure, and HopeSubscribe: Apple Podcast | SpotifyCheck us out: Instagram | Twitter | Website | YouTubeThe show is produced and edited by Palm Tree Pod Co

Ya'll...I've been in a funk. No sleep, kids in my bed, the AC went out, I quit breastfeeding, and somehow those last 10–12 pounds are still hanging on no matter how hard I work. I'm frustrated, I'm tired, and I'm just talking it out.I also get into why I tossed my son's summer packet in the trash and what we did instead. I know the school system has its reasons, but I want my kids to love learning, not just check boxes.If you're feeling stuck, tired, or annoyed with the way things are “supposed” to be done, you're not alone. - - - - - - - - - - -Liz Durham Instagram | WebsiteSubscribe Apple Podcast | SpotifyBeing Different with Liz Durham is a Palm Tree Pod Co. production

Validation is more than just nodding along. It's the foundation of healthy communication, trust, and connection. And for today's guest, it could change the world as we know it. In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Caroline Fleck, licensed psychologist, corporate consultant, and author of Validation: How the Skill Set That Revolutionized Psychology Will Transform Your Relationships, Increase Your Influence, and Change Your Life. Her work has been translated into nine languages and has been featured in The New York Times, Good Morning America, and more.We find out why validation is the key to making people feel truly seen and understood, how to avoid the trap of invalidation, and why self-validation is just as important as validating others. You'll also hear about Caroline's “Validation Ladder,” a simple, actionable framework you can use to strengthen your relationships, improve your influence, and even boost your own mental health.Top 5 Takeaways:Validation Builds Connection: It's about acceptance, not agreement, and it's essential for building trust.Self-Validation Fuels Resilience: Being kind to yourself and acknowledging your feelings can help you model healthy behavior for others.The Validation Ladder: Caroline's step-by-step framework teaches mindfulness, understanding, and empathy as skills you can practice daily.Avoiding Invalidation: Dismissing or minimizing feelings can harm relationships and mental health.Validation vs. Praise: Learn why genuine, non-judgmental acceptance is far more powerful than approval or flattery.If you want to become a better communicator, a stronger leader, or simply deepen your personal relationships, this conversation is packed with practical tools to help you get there.LINKSDr. Caroline Fleck's book about validationMeaningful Work with Tamara Myles and Wes AdamsThe Mattering Mindset on The Mental Training Lab--------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

Have you ever achieved a big goal, only to feel something was missing afterward? Or wondered why no amount of external validation ever seems quite enough? Today, I'm excited to reshare a meaningful conversation from the Mental Training Lab podcast, where I sat down with sport and performance psychology expert Pete Kadushin to talk about the powerful concept of “mattering.”If you are a regular listener, you know how this message has impacted me: how shifting from perfectionistic, outcome-driven mindsets toward purposeful action and intrinsic motivation can transform not just your performance but also your entire approach to life. We discuss why feeling valued and adding value to others is far more fulfilling than chasing external accolades, how to recognize and use your character strengths to foster deeper connections, and practical strategies for cultivating lasting resilience and well-being.Here is what you'll learn:The power of matteringOvercoming perfectionismLeveraging character strengthsThe importance of recognition and communicationSavoring and gratitude practices LINKS:- Listen to The Mental Training Lab with Pete Kadushin- Finding Meaning and Mattering at Work with Andrew Soren- Insights from IPAA Brisbane 2025--------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

Rahm Emanuel was the U.S. Ambassador to Japan from 2022 to 2025. Prior to that, he served as the White House Chief of Staff from 2009 to 2010 under President Barack Obama, and as the Mayor of Chicago from 2011 to 2019. He also represented Illinois in the U.S. House of Representatives from 2003 to 2009.  Welcome back to United States of Sweat presented by Choose the Hard Way where politicians and policymakers join us to share stories about fitness, health and the sports they love playing.  Jonathan Kaplan is my co-host and the founder of WRITE CADENCE STRATEGIES, helping organizations navigate Washington, shape policy and manage reputational risk. He also writes RIDING WITH, a newsletter and podcast exploring the intersection of pro cycling, media, business and politics. Find that at ridingwithkaplan.substack.com. The number one way to support Choose the Hard Way is to become a paid subscriber to my substack, alwaysthehardway.substack.com. That's where I share my reflections on these interviews and write about engaged mindfulness, bikes and life.  For senior execs, pro athletes, and political leaders, podcasts aren't optional anymore. They're mission-critical. At One Real Voice, I coach leaders 1:1 to help them thrive as storytellers and stand out in the long-form podcast conversations where real influence is built.  When you're ready to be great, DM me @hardwaypod or email hello@onerealvoice.com. Wherever you're listening to this podcast, please subscribe and do humanity a favor when you hit 5 stars. Crypto curious? With over $1 trillion in transactions to date, https://www.blockchain.com/ is your trusted partner on your crypto journey. Create your free wallet and get up to 10% in annual rewards by putting your crypto to work. Go to Blockchain.com to get started today, no experience required. Choose the Hard Way Newsletter: https://alwaysthehardway.substack.com/ One Real Voice podcast coaching & strategy: https://www.onerealvoice.com/ Connect with Palm Tree Pod Co.