Podcasts about positivity project

Another fabulous lesson shared from the Positivity Project - and this is something for all of us to take to heart.  "If you lose your wealth, you have lost nothing, if you lose your health, you have lost something; but if you lose your character, you have lost everything." -Woodrow Wilson #PositivitylnAction   Thanks for listening.  Please take a few moments to subscribe & share this with someone, also leave a 5 Star rating on Apple Podcasts and ITunes or other services where you find this show.  Find me on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/coachtoexpectsuccess/   on Twitter / “X”:  @coachtosuccess   and on Instagram at:  @coachjohndaly  - My YouTube Channel is at: Coach John Daly.   Email me at: CoachJohnDalyPodcast@gmail.com     You can also head on over to https://www.coachtoexpectsuccess.com/ and get in touch with me there on my homepage along with checking out my Top Book list too.  Other things there on my site are being worked on too.  Please let me know that you are reaching out to me from my podcast.  

Found a very thought-provoking post from The Positivity Project.  This quote - "When we begin to take our failures non-seriously, it means we are ceasing to be afraid of them. It is of immense importance to learn to laugh at ourselves." - Katherine Mansfield.   This helped me to look at myself a bit more with some laughs and some more confidence.  When I mess up - which is a lot- I'm still learning to learn from those moments. Not to stay in the self-misery of messing up.  Here is the biggie - to quit being afraid of those moments and making myself feel worse.  When I beat myself up, I hold myself back from doing great things.  This was a very good reminder for me and I hope for you too.  Thanks for listening.  Please take a few moments to subscribe & share this with someone, also leave a 5 Star rating on Apple Podcasts and ITunes or other services where you find this show.  Find me on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/coachtoexpectsuccess/   on Twitter / “X”:  @coachtosuccess   and on Instagram at:  @coachjohndaly  - My YouTube Channel is at: Coach John Daly.   Email me at: CoachJohnDalyPodcast@gmail.com     You can also head on over to https://www.coachtoexpectsuccess.com/ and get in touch with me there on my homepage along with checking out my Top Book list too.  Other things there on my site are being worked on too.  Please let me know that you are reaching out to me from my podcast.  

The Positivity Project is mainly set up for schools.  I think it's something that is for all ages.  "Each of us has a spark of life inside us, and our highest endeavor ought to be to set off that spark in one another." -Kenny Ausubel   A reminder for all of us as to what we should be looking to do in our lifetime.  If more people would look to do things like this, the world would improve a lot.   Thanks for listening.  Please take a few moments to subscribe & share this with someone, also leave a 5 Star rating on Apple Podcasts and ITunes or other services where you find this show.  Find me on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/coachtoexpectsuccess/   on Twitter / “X”:  @coachtosuccess   and on Instagram at:  @coachjohndaly  - My YouTube Channel is at: Coach John Daly.   Email me at: CoachJohnDalyPodcast@gmail.com     You can also head on over to https://www.coachtoexpectsuccess.com/ and get in touch with me there on my homepage along with checking out my Top Book list too.  Other things there on my site are being worked on too.  Please let me know that you are reaching out to me from my podcast.  

To be an effective leader, you must believe that other people matter and, as a result, that leadership is a relationship.   This is the belief of today's guest, Mike Erwin. A soldier, educator, author, non-profit founder, veteran advocate, and Executive Director at Team Red, White & Blue (RWB), America's leading health and wellness community for veterans. Mike is also CEO of the Character & Leadership Center and co-founder and president of The Positivity Project, a non-profit organization that aims to empower America's youth to build positive relationships.   As you'll learn in this episode, Mike is an exemplary leader who has dedicated his life to serving his nation and empowering people to become more resilient. Mike shares his perspective on leadership development, how Positive Psychology has influenced his personal and professional outlook on life, and why it's important to not just coexist but learn to collaborate with others.  (even when they have radically different personalities from you).   Mike and BJ also discuss the books that have profoundly impacted Mike's life, the people who inspire him most, his definition of legacy, and much more! To find out why the leaders who put people first tend to be more successful (and memorable), be sure to tune in today. 

The Positivity Project comes through again  - @posproject - This quote says so much:  "Whenever you're in conflict with someone, there is one factor that can make the difference between damaging your relationship and deepening it. That factor is attitude." -William James    Our attitude is totally our choice.  We have to remember that it's one of the few things we have total control over, yet we tend to forget that we do.  I needed this reminder for sure.  Hope it helps you too.   Thanks for listening.  Please take a few moments to subscribe & share this with someone, also leave a 5 Star rating on Apple Podcasts and ITunes or other services where you find this show.  Find me on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/coachtoexpectsuccess/   on Twitter / “X”:  @coachtosuccess   and on Instagram at:  @coachjohndaly  - My YouTube Channel is at: Coach John Daly.   Email me at: CoachJohnDalyPodcast@gmail.com     You can also head on over to https://www.coachtoexpectsuccess.com/ and get in touch with me there on my homepage along with checking out my Top Book list too.  Other things there on my site are being worked on too.  Please let me know that you are reaching out to me from my podcast.  

I ran into a very powerful post from the Positivity Project.  This reminds us about when we give up on things, it gets easier and easier to keep giving up.  Which I did many times in my life and still struggle with today.  But this also reminds us that we can change our habits and choose to gain some grit & take on problems and issues that we need to deal with.  It is possible to grow some grit in our lives.  That is something I have been working on and this reminder helps me to do more of it, every single day!!  Thanks for listening.  Please take a few moments to subscribe & share this with someone, also leave a 5 Star rating on Apple Podcasts and ITunes or other services where you find this show.  Find me on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/coachtoexpectsuccess/   on Twitter / “X”:  @coachtosuccess   and on Instagram at:  @coachjohndaly  - My YouTube Channel is at: Coach John Daly.   Email me at: CoachJohnDalyPodcast@gmail.com     You can also head on over to https://www.coachtoexpectsuccess.com/ and get in touch with me there on my homepage along with checking out my Top Book list too.  Other things there on my site are being worked on too.  Please let me know that you are reaching out to me from my podcast.

Going into the gym today I decided to share some thoughts with you instead of waiting until I came out.  Two things from today - one is from the Positivity Project - "When the world says "Give Up", hope whispers , "Try it one more time.""  I think we all need to remember & stay connected to that one.  Also, John O'Leary - he reminds us about looking to stay "on fire for good."  So many different ways of doing that and remember, a little bit every day can help ourselves out along with others.  Here is the link to his podcast from yesterday:  HERE.  Also, if you want to follow through and share someone that is an example of being that difference maker that is "on fire" - click HERE.  Thanks for listening.  Please take a few moments to subscribe & share this with someone, also leave a 5 Star rating on Apple Podcasts and ITunes or other services where you find this show.  Find me on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/coachtoexpectsuccess/   on Twitter / “X”:  @coachtosuccess   and on Instagram at:  @coachjohndaly  - My YouTube Channel is at: Coach John Daly.   Email me at: CoachJohnDalyPodcast@gmail.com     You can also head on over to https://www.coachtoexpectsuccess.com/ and get in touch with me there on my homepage along with checking out my Top Book list too.  Other things there on my site are being worked on too.  Please let me know that you are reaching out to me from my podcast.  

Some holiday reflections helped me to decide that my one word for 2024 is going to be focused on Gratitude.  Funny thing also, I picked this up from Jon Gordon and I just saw a post that he has put out there about this.   The post from the Positivity Project that I talk about in this episode is a strong mindset for all of us.  "Gratitude helps you to grow and expand; gratitude brings joy and laughter in your life and into lives of all those around you." - Eileen Caddy.  What's your one word?   Thanks for listening.  Please take a few moments to subscribe & share this with someone, also leave a 5 Star rating on Apple Podcasts and ITunes or other services where you find this show.  Find me on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/coachtoexpectsuccess/   on Twitter / “X”:  @coachtosuccess   and on Instagram at:  @coachjohndaly  - My YouTube Channel is at: Coach John Daly.   Email me at: CoachJohnDalyPodcast@gmail.com     You can also head on over to https://www.coachtoexpectsuccess.com/ and get in touch with me there on my homepage along with checking out my Top Book list too.  Other things there on my site are being worked on too.  Please let me know that you are reaching out to me from my podcast.

Mike Erwin graduated from West Point in 2002 and went on to serve on active duty for 13 years, including three deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan in the First Cavalry Division and 3rd Special Forces Group. This week on Next Steps Forward, Mr. Erwin joins program host Chris Meek to discuss what his time in the military taught him about leadership and the importance of giving back to those fellow Americans who serve our country. Mr. Erwin will discuss his work through the veteran-focused non-profit organization he founded in 2010, Team Red, White & Blue (Team RWB) and the work the organization carries out to enrich the lives of America's service members. Additionally, he will discuss the Positivity Project, a non profit organization he co-founded with the mission to empower America's youth to build positive relationships. Mr. Erwin has consistently demonstrated a commitment to actively using the skills he developed in the military to pursue life changing projects in the civilian sector to better the lives of countless American veterans and children. Beyond his work with veterans and youth, he is the co-author of “Lead Yourself First.” Throughout the interview he will focus on the principles of the book, including how solitude strengthens people's character and their ability to lead with clarity, balance and conviction.

Mike Erwin graduated from West Point in 2002 and went on to serve on active duty for 13 years, including three deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan in the First Cavalry Division and 3rd Special Forces Group. This week on Next Steps Forward, Mr. Erwin joins program host Chris Meek to discuss what his time in the military taught him about leadership and the importance of giving back to those fellow Americans who serve our country. Mr. Erwin will discuss his work through the veteran-focused non-profit organization he founded in 2010, Team Red, White & Blue (Team RWB) and the work the organization carries out to enrich the lives of America's service members. Additionally, he will discuss the Positivity Project, a non profit organization he co-founded with the mission to empower America's youth to build positive relationships. Mr. Erwin has consistently demonstrated a commitment to actively using the skills he developed in the military to pursue life changing projects in the civilian sector to better the lives of countless American veterans and children. Beyond his work with veterans and youth, he is the co-author of “Lead Yourself First.” Throughout the interview he will focus on the principles of the book, including how solitude strengthens people's character and their ability to lead with clarity, balance and conviction.

Picked up an amazing quote - an amazing reminder from the Positivity Project.  "You have power over your mind - not outside events.  Realize this, and you will find strength." - Marcus Aurelius said this.  With the "... outside events..." getting louder all the time, and they seem to be in our face all of the time; I'm trying very hard to remember this tip.  I hope you can too.  Thanks for listening.  Please take a few moments to subscribe & share this with someone, also leave a 5 Star rating on Apple Podcasts and ITunes or other services where you find this show.  Find me on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/coachtoexpectsuccess/   on Twitter / “X”:  @coachtosuccess   and on Instagram at:  @coachjohndaly  - My YouTube Channel is at: Coach John Daly.   Email me at: CoachJohnDalyPodcast@gmail.com     You can also head on over to https://www.coachtoexpectsuccess.com/ and get in touch with me there on my homepage along with checking out my Top Book list too.  Other things there on my site are being worked on too.  Please let me know that you are reaching out to me from my podcast.

Amazing quote coming at us today from the Positivity Project & it reminds us that "A person's most useful asset is not a head full of knowledge but a heart full of love, an ear ready to listen, and a hand willing to help."  One key connection to this is Mitch Albom.  Amazing things he is doing to help so many people in so many areas.  His efforts and attitude all come from his old college professor, Morrie Schwartz.  Again, get "Tuesdays With Morrie" and that book will send you on your way to not only thinking differently about your life, but also living your life differently too!!  Thanks for listening.  Please take a few moments to subscribe & share this with someone, also leave a 5 Star rating on Apple Podcasts and ITunes or other services where you find this show.  Find me on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/coachtoexpectsuccess/   on Twitter / “X”:  @coachtosuccess   and on Instagram at:  @coachjohndaly  - My YouTube Channel is at: Coach John Daly.   Email me at: CoachJohnDalyPodcast@gmail.com     You can also head on over to https://www.coachtoexpectsuccess.com/ and get in touch with me there on my homepage along with checking out my Top Book list too.  Other things there on my site are being worked on too.  Please let me know that you are reaching out to me from my podcast.

Chaplain (COL) Jacob Scott and guest co-host Steve DeLuna speak with Mike Erwin about positive psychology and leadership. Erwin is the founder of Team RWB, co-founder of the Positivity Project and a combat veteran.

Saw a great post from the Positivity Project & it's a wonderful reminder for me and hopefully you too.   It said, "Gratitude and attitude are not challenges; they are choices."  At the time of this recording, I needed to focus on both of those life skills & yes.. they are both choices.  I needed to be reminded about these & I need to keep them easily accessible to me every day.  Thanks for listening.  Please take a few moments to subscribe & share this with someone, also leave a 5 Star rating on Apple Podcasts and ITunes or other services where you find this show.  Find me on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/coachtoexpectsuccess/   on Twitter / “X”:  @coachtosuccess   and on Instagram at:  @coachjohndaly  - My YouTube Channel is at: Coach John Daly.   Email me at: CoachJohnDalyPodcast@gmail.com     You can also head on over to https://www.coachtoexpectsuccess.com/ and get in touch with me there on my homepage along with checking out my Top Book list too.  Other things there on my site are being worked on too.  Please let me know that you are reaching out to me from my podcast.

Are you struggling to find your footing as a leader? Do you find yourself constantly surrounded by noise and distractions?In this episode, Jamie Hopkins, Managing Partner of Wealth Solutions, and Ana Trujillo Limón, Director, Coaching and Advisor Content, speak with Mike Erwin, a 13-year army veteran and Executive Director at Team Red, White & Blue, about the impact practicing solitude has on personal and professional development and the importance of human skills in today's digital age.Mike discusses: What made him make the affirmative decision to go to West PointHis advice for young cadets joining West Point to keep a positive mindset and focus on physical fitnessHow he realized solitude was a valuable addition to his development as a person, leader, and professional during his deployment to IraqWhat inspired him to write his book, “Lead Yourself First” about the intersection between solitude and leadershipWhy some people are reluctant to practice solitude and how it can improve your relationships with yourself and othersHow positive psychology research shows that the quality of relationships with family, friends, teammates, and coworkers is the number one driver of life satisfactionWhat inspired him to volunteer and what he loves about giving backThe skillsets and qualities that make hiring and working with veterans beneficial for financial advisorsThe importance of human skills in a world that is becoming more digital and less human-to-human interactionHow we can help younger generations cultivate people skills, especially after the COVID-19 pandemicWhat freedom means to himAnd moreResources:Lead Yourself First by Mike Erwin, Raymond Kethledge and Jim CollinsLeadership Is A Relationship by Mike Erwin and Willys DevollConnect with Jamie Hopkins and Ana Trujillo Limón: Carson Group LLCLinkedIn: Jamie HopkinsLinkedIn: Ana Trujillo LimónConnect with Mike Erwin:Team  Red, White & BlueLinkedIn: Mike ErwinTwitter: @ErwinRWBAbout our Guest: Mike Erwin is a West Point graduate and a 13-year Army veteran. Mike founded several organizations in the past decade, including Team Red, White & Blue, to help enrich the lives of America's veterans in the Positivity Project which empowers America's youth to build positive relationships. Simultaneously, he worked on leadership through the two books he co-authored: Lead Yourself First and Leadership Is A Relationship.

Had a good start to my day... a little attitude adjustment that I needed.  It was once again - Ed Mylett riding in with me and he reminded me on how important my thinking is.   Our thoughts really do direct everything we do in life, where we go, who we become, our choices & decisions, etc.  I was also connecting this to a great round-table discussion I was lucky to be a part of yesterday with our Positivity Project.  We had some people from the P2 project home office, along with parents and other educators from nearby districts.  A great session with some powerful conversations.   Thanks for listening.  Please take a few moments to subscribe & share this with someone, also leave a 5 Star rating on Apple Podcasts and ITunes or other services where you find this show.  Find me on Facebook,   on Twitter.   and on Instagram  - My YouTube Channel is at: Coach John Daly.   Email me at: CoachJohnDalyPodcast@gmail.com     You can also head on over to https://www.coachtoexpectsuccess.com/ and get in touch with me there on my homepage along with checking out my Top Book list too.  Other things there on my site are being worked on too.

During this conversation with four trauma therapists who are also abuse survivors, you'll discover:Recovery from abuse is possible;The role EFT can play in trauma recovery;A resource of self-care methods to help facilitate healing and full recovery and where to find that resource;How FREA - short for Finding Recovery and Empowerment From Abuse - can help you whether you're a trauma survivor or a therapist / coach helping others;How to begin and move forward along the recovery path.FREA's Positivity Project for Mental Health Awareness Month,A short affirmation / tapping exercise to boost your belief in your magnificence and beauty.---Resources:FREA's website: https://www.FREA.Support. FREA's Facebook site: https://www.facebook.com/findingrecoveryandempowermentfromabuseThe YouTube video version of this conversation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrPXQ6NI9G4---Host: Stephen Carter. Website: https://StressReliefRadio.com. Email: CarterMethod@gmail.com.---Technical information:Intro recorded with Hindenburg Pro 2. Edits with Twisted Wave. Leveled with Levelator. Noise and reverb reduction with Hush. Final edits and rendering with Hindenburg Pro 2. Microphone: SE DynaCaster DCM8. Original conversation video and audio recorded with Zoom.---Key words:trauma, trauma recovery, energy psychology, abuse, EFT, Emotional Freedom Techniques, tapping,---

During this conversation with four trauma therapists who are also abuse survivors, you'll discover:Recovery from abuse is possible;A summary of self-care methods to help facilitate healing and full recovery and where to find them;How FREA - short for Finding Recovery and Empowerment From Abuse - can help you whether you're a trauma survivor or a therapist / coach helping others;How to begin and move forward along the recovery path.FREA's Positivity Project for Mental Health Awareness Month, with a short exercise to boost your belief in your magnificence and beauty.---Resources:FREA's website: https://www.FREA.Support. FREA's Facebook site: https://www.facebook.com/findingrecoveryandempowermentfromabuseThe YouTube video version of this conversation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrPXQ6NI9G4---Host:Stephen Carter. Website: https://StressReliefRadio.com. Email: CarterMethod@gmail.com.---Technical information:Intro recorded with Hindenburg Pro 2. Edits with Twisted Wave. Leveled with Levelator. Noise and reverb reduction with Hush. Final edits and rendering with Hindenburg Pro 2. Microphone: SE DynaCaster DCM8. Original conversation video and audio recorded with Zoom.---Key words:trauma, trauma recovery, energy psychology, abuse, EFT, Emotional Freedom Techniques, tapping, mental health,---

Saw a great quote about the benefits of walking - it's not just for good exercise and health.  Some powerful thoughts and reminders here.   Thanks for listening.  Please take a few moments to subscribe & share this with someone, also leave a 5 Star rating on Apple Podcasts and ITunes or other services where you find this show.  Find me on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/coachtoexpectsuccess/   on Twitter:  @coachtosuccess   and on Instagram at:  @coachjohndaly  - My YouTube Channel is at: Coach John Daly.   Email me at: CoachJohnDalyPodcast@gmail.com     You can also head on over to https://www.coachtoexpectsuccess.com/ and get in touch with me there on my homepage along with checking out my Top Book list too.  Other things there on my site are being worked on too.  

Mike Erwin is a long overdue guest for this podcast, and he brings a wealth of insight that spans everything from his experiences in combat to leading multiple nonprofit organizations to his efforts to reshape education in America. A 2002 graduate of The U.S. Military Academy at West Point with a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics, Mike was commissioned as an Intelligence Officer, serving in three combat tours with the First Cavalry Division and 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne). His service includes deployment to Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2004-2005 that involved the Battles of Fallujah and Najaf. Mike also deployed to Kandahar, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2006-2007 and 2009. Following his third deployment, Mike attended the University of Michigan from 2009-2011, where he studied positive psychology and leadership under the tutelage of the co-founder of positive psychology, Dr. Chris Peterson. He went on to serve as an Assistant Professor in Psychology & Leadership at the U.S. Military Academy from 2011-2014. He continues to serve as an instructor there as a LTC in the Army Reserve. While in graduate school in 2010, Mike founded a non-profit organization named Team Red, White & Blue (Team RWB) with the mission to to enrich the lives of America's veterans by connecting them to their community through physical and social activity and a vision towards forging America's leading health and wellness community for veterans. Today Team RWB has nearly 200k members across over 200 chapters globally. He is also co-founder & CEO of the Positivity Project—a non-profit organization with the mission to empower America's youth to build positive relationships. With 542 partner schools, the organization reaches 332,000 children daily. He is the CEO of The Character & Leadership Center and has done leadership development with over 100 major organizations. He also serves as the founding Chairman of the Board for Father Vincent Capodanno High School, outside Fort Bragg, NC. Finally he has authored two books: Lead Yourself First (co-authored with Ray Kethledge) and Leadership is a Relationship (co-authored with Willys Devoll). Mike lives on a 32-acre farm in North Carolina with his wife Genevieve and their four children; Eli, Adelaide, Therese and Matthias. If you want to read the Wall Street Journal article Mike mentions, it is "Socrates Never Wrote a Term Paper" by Jeremy Tate and it discusses how AI (specifically ChatGPT) is impacting education, and suggests that the Socratic method might offer a way forward.

Got some great reminders and inspirations from my friend, teacher, mentor, coach & difference maker, Sam Crowley.  These three things are for all of us to look at and think about - every single day!!   Thanks for listening.  Please take a few moments to subscribe & share this with someone, also leave a 5 Star rating on Apple Podcasts and ITunes or other services where you find this show.  Find me on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/coachtoexpectsuccess/   on Twitter:  @coachtosuccess   and on Instagram at:  @coachjohndaly  - My YouTube Channel is at: Coach John Daly.   Email me at: CoachJohnDalyPodcast @gmail.com     You can also head on over to https://www.coachtoexpectsuccess.com/ and get in touch with me there on my homepage along with checking out my Top Book list too.  Other things there on my site are being worked on too.

On this edition of TMWS, I am traveling to Leoma Elementary School in Leoma, Tennessee, to speak with Dixie about her positivity project in her school. Joining me are her dad, Greg, and the school counselor, Martha Davison. Miss Davison is also sharing about the Kids for Kindness effort that started just last week in their school. Congratulations to Dixie on her Cool Kid Award! I hope you will listen and share.

On this MADM, Dixie is sharing about her positivity project and her school counselor is sharing about their efforts to spread kindness in Leoma Elementary School! Listen and share. Sponsor: Athens Bible School AthensBible.com

Get your free access to the life changing 7 Day Positivity Project video training here www.moirageary.com/pos-proj The Truth about Positive Thinking which includes Toxic positivity and What is it? Three ways it can be harmful and how to identify it The flip side ie Positive Thinking 4 Major benefits that research is showing us about Positive Thinking and 5 Actions steps to help you achieve those benefits Toxic positivity is the idea of always trying to maintain a positive attitude, even in difficult or negative situations. This can involve downplaying or dismissing negative emotions or experiences, or pressuring others to always think positively. While it's important to have a positive outlook on life and to try to find the good in difficult situations, toxic positivity can be harmful in several ways. First, it can invalidate people's feelings and experiences. When someone is struggling with negative emotions or a difficult situation, it's important to allow them to feel and express those emotions. Dismissing or minimizsng their feelings can make them feel unsupported and isolated. Second, toxic positivity can create an unhealthy pressure to always be positive, which can be emotionally exhausting and unsustainable. It's okay to have negative emotions, and it's important to allow oneself to feel and process them in a healthy way. Finally, toxic positivity can also prevent people from seeking help or support when they need it. If someone is constantly told to "think positive" or to "just be happy," they may feel like they can't ask for help or support when they're struggling. In short, while it's important to try to maintain a positive outlook, it's also important to allow ourselves and others to feel and express a full range of emotions and to look for help when needed. On the Flip Side: What research shows on positive thinking There is some research suggesting that positive thinking can have a range of benefits, including improved physical health ie better immune function and a lower risk of developing certain health conditions, such as heart disease. Improved mental health, ie lower rates of depression and anxiety and are more resilient when facing stress. Better decision-making skills and problem solving skills. People who are more positive tend to approach problems with a more open-minded and flexible attitude, which can lead to better solutions. increased life satisfaction. However, it's important also to note that positive thinking on its own is not a cure-all, and it's not always possible or healthy to try to always maintain a positive outlook. It's important to allow yourself to feel and express a full range of emotions, and to get help when needed. Four action steps that will support you: Make a decision ‘is this what you want yes or no'? Get access to the 7-day Positivity Project (moirageary.com) Hourly chime to get a yard stick measurement Journal/ask yourself the following 3 questions How badly do I want positive change? If I was to make positive changes what could life be like for me? If I decide to stick with Moira what area do I want to start with? Before I reveal what you will learn in the next episode remember as always Make sure you get your free access to the 7 Positivity Project video training if you haven't already www.moirageary.com/pos-proj Remember we leave ‘no soldier behind' so please share this with anyone you think may need it. Stay in the circle ie you can find me in lots of places Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, podcast, email round ups, so find your preferred medium and if you want to join me in free live conversations links to everything will be around the page somewhere. On the next episode I will be supporting you with self-confidence: What it is. 6 Factors that affect it 6 Tips on how to build Self Confidence Until then, again remember, stay in the circle to be supported and all links and info are below. How to stay in the circle: Get your free access to the life changing 7 Day Positivity Project video training here www.moirageary.com/pos-proj Facebook Group for live chats with me and other like-minded people: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1002878506405145 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moirageary_ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@the-positivity-project Spotify Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6Mtt9dqieaRbuBsbakMGVm?si=162d5cb0537f4d67 Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-positivity-project-podcast/id1660646733 Website: www.moirageary.com Email List: https://www.moirageary.com/stay-connected Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/Iammoirageary Get your free access to the life changing 7 Day Positivity Project video training here www.moirageary.com/pos-proj

I've told my buddy Sam Crowley, he would have made a really good teacher.  He's teaching lessons every time he puts out any content.  This one is a lesson he has shared before, but I guess it took me a long time to let it sink in enough to use and to share it with you.  Sam has said "don't let a bad 5 minutes turn into a bad day!"  I've put that into play lately and it works.  Hope you find some value in this one.   Thanks for listening.  Please take a few moments to subscribe & share this with someone, also leave a 5 Star rating on Apple Podcasts and ITunes or other services where you find this show.  Find me on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/coachtoexpectsuccess/   on Twitter:  @coachtosuccess   and on Instagram at:  @coachjohndaly  - My YouTube Channel is at: Coach John Daly.   Email me at: CoachJohnDalyPodcast @gmail.com     You can also head on over to https://www.coachtoexpectsuccess.com/ and get in touch with me there on my homepage along with checking out my Top Book list too.  Other things there on my site are being worked on too.  

Here is part 3 of 3 - more fantastic lessons for both of us from Coach John Wooden.  Make sure you go back to the show notes from part 1 - for both the Pyramid of Success and for the article too.   Thanks for listening.  Please take a few moments to subscribe & share this with someone, also leave a 5 Star rating on Apple Podcasts and ITunes or other services where you find this show.  Find me on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/coachtoexpectsuccess/   on Twitter:  @coachtosuccess   and on Instagram at:  @coachjohndaly  - My YouTube Channel is at: Coach John Daly.   Email me at: CoachJohnDalyPodcast @gmail.com     You can also head on over to https://www.coachtoexpectsuccess.com/ and get in touch with me there on my homepage along with checking out my Top Book list too.  Other things there on my site are being worked on – especially my blog page where I am back to blogging now.

Inspired by our Positivity Project at school and Coach John Wooden - here is part 1 of 3 on a few thoughts about the importance of Integrity.  To check out a copy of Coach Wooden's Pyramid of Success - Click HERE.    Just scroll down to find the Pyramid.  You can find it in other places too.  Here is the link for the article connected with Coach John Wooden on Integrity - find it HERE.     Powerful stuff in this 3-part series that I know I needed to be reminded about - hope it's good for you too.   Thanks for listening.  Please take a few moments to subscribe & share this with someone, also leave a 5 Star rating on Apple Podcasts and ITunes or other services where you find this show.  Find me on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/coachtoexpectsuccess/   on Twitter:  @coachtosuccess   and on Instagram at:  @coachjohndaly  - My YouTube Channel is at: Coach John Daly.   Email me at: CoachJohnDalyPodcast @gmail.com     You can also head on over to https://www.coachtoexpectsuccess.com/ and get in touch with me there on my homepage along with checking out my Top Book list too.  Other things there on my site are being worked on – especially my blog page where I am back to blogging now.

Here is part 2 - more fantastic lessons for both of us from Coach John Wooden.  Make sure you go back to the show notes from part 1 - for both the Pyramid of Success and for the article too.   Thanks for listening.  Please take a few moments to subscribe & share this with someone, also leave a 5 Star rating on Apple Podcasts and ITunes or other services where you find this show.  Find me on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/coachtoexpectsuccess/   on Twitter:  @coachtosuccess   and on Instagram at:  @coachjohndaly  - My YouTube Channel is at: Coach John Daly.   Email me at: CoachJohnDalyPodcast @gmail.com     You can also head on over to https://www.coachtoexpectsuccess.com/ and get in touch with me there on my homepage along with checking out my Top Book list too.  Other things there on my site are being worked on – especially my blog page where I am back to blogging now.

Meet Tina and Rodney Culbreath, two community leaders who turned their own childhood struggles and hardships into the  I'm Just Me Movement, a thriving mentorship program that focuses on resiliency and growth for all of its participants. Looking to implement the Positivity Project? We have books and resource ideas for you (check out the full show notes). Tina and Rodney are a force for positivity and change and you're invited to share in their stories. [01:18]  I'm Just Me provides innovative mentoring programs through workshops,  Live Life Forward programs, intervention groups, bullying and diversity workshops.  [03:30],Why mentoring? How does it make an impact?  To learn more about mentoring opportunities visit imjustmemovement.org. [11:42]  How do mentors change lives? Rodney and Tina share their personal stories.[18:27] Celebrating 9 Years of the I'm Just Me Movement October is the nationally recognized I'm Just Me Because National Month. On Oct. 2,  I'm Just Me will have a bowling birthday bash for supporters in the Shenandoah Valley. There's also a ribbon cutting at 11:30 am on Oct. 13. [20:40] Learn about Project Positive, an initiative created by students in collaboration with I'm Just Me Movement to cultivate kind and inclusive learning environments. [27:32] Picture Book Connections for Project Positive, Character Counts, Social-Emotional Learning and STEM/STEAM Learning Patchwork, Matt de la Pena/Corinna Luyken  Love, Matt de la Pena/Loren Long All Because You Matter, Tami Charles/ Bryan CollierYou Matter, Christian RobinsonI Am Enough, Grace Byers/ Keturah A. Bobo Imagine, Juan Felipe Herrera/Lauren CastilloDrawn Together, Minh Le/ Dan Santat Brave Every Day and The Invisible Boy, Trudy Ludwig/Patrice Barton After the Fall, Dan SantatI Buzzsprout - Let's get your podcast laun Start for FREEDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showRead the full show notes, visit the website, and check out my on-demand virtual course. Continue the adventure at LinkedIn or Instagram. *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Aveen talks with Meg Fredrick, retired teacher an co-founder of the "Mindfulness and Positivity Project". This conversation is just in time for back to school with some really helpful ideas on how to help kids with the anxiety and stress that can come at this time of year. A little about Meg: Meg Fredrick, recently retired in 2019 from 16 years at CMHS as an English teacher and Student Council Advisor. She was named Teacher of the Year, somewhere around 2014, and absolutely loved her years as an educator. Meg received her Masters in Teaching from Colorado College in 2008 with an emphasis in Positive Psychology. After retiring, she has dedicated her time to The Mindfulness and Positivity Project, a nonprofit which she co-founded in 2020. She is passionately dedicated to helping people, especially teachers and students, live full, healthy and happy lives through the practices of mindfulness and intentional positive living. Meg believes that each and every precious life has meaning and purpose in this world, and we need to embrace it for the good of all!! Meg has 4 amazing kids, all thriving and loving their lives, and now 5 wonderful grand kids! In her free time she loves to golf, garden, hike, cook, volunteer in her community, and train for triathlons!   Donate or find our more about the project here: https://mindfulandpositive.org

Today's program, featuring Mike Erwin, will be a multi-faceted exploration into three fascinating organizations. Mike combined his passion for Christ, his interest in leadership and his military background to help establish a high school dedicated to building tomorrow's faith-filled leaders. His is also the founder of Team Red, White and Blue, dedicated to enriching the lives of military veterans and co-founder of the Positivity Project, a K-12 program that provides resources regarding the 24 character strengths and helps in empowering young people in building positive relationships. We'll talk about all of this and more on this edition of “Follow to Lead.”

https://www.mikeerwin.net/ Mike the CEO of The Character & Leadership Center and has done leadership development with over 100 organizations, including Amazon, Special Forces Command, McKinsey & Co, the New Jersey Devils, Boston Celtics, Spartan Race and Michigan Men's Basketball team. He is also co-founder & CEO of the Positivity Project—a non-profit organization with the mission to empower America's youth to build positive relationships. With 542 partner schools, the organization reaches 332,000 children daily. He is the co-author of LEAD YOURSELF FIRST by Bloomsbury Press (2017). The book focuses on how solitude strengthens people's character—and their ability to lead with clarity, balance and conviction. He also serves as the founding Chairman of the Board for Father Vincent Capodanno High School, outside Fort Bragg, NC.

Human connection to life is critical, especially the past couple years. Never forget that the quality of our relationships with family and friends is critical. Lean in to the relationships. Mike is currently an Army Reserve Officer and is the Founder of Team RWB and the Positivity Project. Check out his books Lead yourself first and Leadership is a Relationship. Guest Links: Character Leadership Center, Positivity Project, Team RWB Book Recommendation: The Alchemist, Good to Great This podcast is brought to you by Fortis Et Fidelis. Honoring the brave and faithful service of our fallen by creating and providing memorial coins for families of the fallen . The free will never forget! Join our Community at Brave and Faithful Visit our website Fortis Et Fidelis Follow, Like, Subscribe to Fortis Et Fidelis: Facebook Instagram Twitter Youtube Listen to the Brave and Faithful Podcast: Amazon Apple Spotify Google --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/fortis-et-fidelis/support

Nat's conversation is with Mr. Mike Erwin, co-founder of The Positivity Project, a nationwide program designed to empower our youngest generation through hope and possibility. Drawing from his experience from tours of duty in Iraq and Afghanistan, Mr. Erwin applies themes of collaboration, community, and teamwork into his organization. We conclude with a focus on the status of young men today.

Mike Erwin is a man that wears many important hats. He is the Founder and Executive Director of Team Red, White, and Blue (Team RWB)—a non-profit with a mission to enrich the lives of America's veterans by connecting them to their community through physical and social activity. Team RWB is a growing organization with over 220,000 members. In addition to leading Team RWB, Mike is the CEO of the Character & Leadership Center and the Co-Founder & President of The Positivity Project—a non-profit organization with the mission to empower America's youth to build positive relationships. With 425 partner schools, the organization reaches 260,000 children daily. He is the also the author of Lead Yourself First: Inspiring Leadership through Solitude and his new book, Leadership is a Relationship: How to Put People First in a Digital World.  Mike is also a Lt. Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves, assigned to the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he serves as an Assistant Professor in Leadership & Psychology. He also serves as the founding Chairman of the Board for Father Vincent Capodanno High School, outside Fort Bragg, NC. Mike graduated from West Point in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics. He was commissioned as an Intelligence Officer, serving in three combat tours with the First Cavalry Division and 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne). His service includes deployment to Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2004–2005 that involved the Battles of Fallujah and Najaf. Mike also deployed to Kandahar, Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2006–2007 and 2009. On those tours, he worked with NATO forces, to include serving as a lead intelligence planner for one of the largest NATO-led combat operation in history. Mike earned two Bronze Star Medals from these tours. Following his third deployment, Mike attended the University of Michigan from 2009–2011, where he studied positive psychology and leadership under the tutelage of the co-founder of Positive Psychology, Dr. Chris Peterson. He went on to serve as an Assistant Professor in Psychology & Leadership at the U.S. Military Academy from 2011–2014. While assigned to West Point as a Major, Mike served as a lead planner for the Bob McDonald Global Leadership Conference and was the aide-de-camp to the Class of 1951 Chair for the Study of Leadership, held by Jim Collins and then Tom Tierney. Connect with Mike and follow his awesome work at MikeErwin.net or on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, or Twitter.

Do you ever feel like you're stuck and unable to find a way forwards? Do you procrastinate, self-sabotage or hold yourself back some other way?   If so then you are in the right place as my guest on today's episode has over 25 years of experience helping people with overcoming precisely these challenges.   Moira Geary is known as the Recombobulator. She spoke at Momentum last month and her presentation on the subconscious mind, fear and positivity was a huge hit so I invited her on the show to dive a little deeper into some of these topics.   With a background in nursing, Moira has been in the personal development space for over 25 years and among many other qualifications holds a Master Practitioner in NLP and a masters in psychotherapy.   In today's episode we chat about where fear comes from, the different ways it shows up and what we can do to create a better understanding and response to it.   Moira shares a number of simple tools and techniques that can help us deal with overwhelm and stuckness, as well as some powerful reframing methods that allow us to work with some of the more negative emotions such as fear, anxiety and worry.   Moira's no-cost Positivity Project is worth checking out if you want to find out more about her work and discover more of her tried and tested strategies.   https://www.moirageary.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/moirageary https://www.facebook.com/recombobulator

Abby somehow manages not to do another intro segment on Euphoria (after last night's episode?? It was HARD!), and instead talks about her least favorite fat trope, the Sad Tragic Fat Girl (In Unrequited Love), or the tragic fat girl for short. Then Stephanie Lexis, an actress/singer-songwriter/comedian/advocate for body diversity in theatre comes on the podcast to discuss positive body image vs. body positivity, Never Have I Ever (the Netflix show not the game), diabetes, recovering from binge eating disorder, college dance program weigh-ins, Disney princesses, and why she actually likes Insatiable. ***This episode contains significant discussions of eating disorders, including bingeing and extreme restrictive behaviors. The BED talk is peppered throughout the episode, but to skip the restriction part, skip forward a few minutes after the question about college dance program weigh-ins.***SUBMIT A DATING QUESTION HERE!Join The Broadway Body Positivity Project Facebook GroupFollow The Broadway Body Positivity Project on Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, and YouTube!Ask Polly Advice Column: "My Friend Lost Weight and Now I Want Him. Am I Shallow?"@classyfattybabe on TikTokAbby's web site: http://abbyrosemorris.comAbby's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abbyrosemorrisAbby's Twitter: https://twitter.com/abbyrosemorris_http://www.morethantracyturnblad.comFollow @morethantracyt on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok!Logo design by Abby MartinoAssistant Producer: Maya Ballester

Given the experience of the last two years, educators are increasingly aware that they have to address students' emotional needs as a prerequisite to focusing on academics. Some do that through social and emotional learning, restorative justice and mindfulness programs, and others are integrating a dedicated program called the Positivity Project. Educators Nichole Flynn, Heather Meredith, and Sandy Rutledge of the St. Clair Middle School in St. Clair, Michigan orient us.

Mike Erwin is the founder of Team Red, White and Blue which has the mission of enriching veteran's lives by connecting them with communities through fitness and social activities. This community has over 190 locations across the country, 200,000 members and close to 250,000 check-ins for 2020. Find out more about Team RWB here: Team Red, White and Blue Mike is also a Lieutenant Colonel in the United States Army Reserves, his current assignment is as an Assistant Professor at United States Military Academy, West Point. He is also the Co-Founder and Chairman of the Board at the Positivity Project, which has the mission of teaching Pre-K through 12 students about character strengths and building positive relationships. Learn more about the Positivity Project here: The Positivity Project Mike has Co-authored two books, which dive into leadership principles such as solitude and why we need to put people first in the age of technology. Find both of the books here: Lead Yourself First: Inspiring Leadership Through Solitude By  Mike S. Erwin and Raymond KethledgeLeadership is a Relationship: How to Put People First in the Digital World by Mike S Erwin and Willys DevollFind Mike Erwin here: Mike Erwin on LinkedInMike Erwin on Facebook Mike Erwin on Instagram Mike Erwin on Twitter If you enjoyed this episode of Always in Pursuit, please share with a couple of your friends and leave us a review on whatever platform you use. Also find out more about AIP and the team at www.alwaysinpursuit.org. Thank you for tuning in to the show!Check out our amazing Sponsors Adyton PBC and Learn more about MUSTR app which is streamlining systems for leaders across the Department of Defense! 

Open Mindedness is not only this week's Positivity Project character term at school - it also just happens to be the theme of this podcast. Namely for me as someone who needs to focus on that more and more now - especially as it connects to being more open to learning things that will help me grow into the person that I am trying to become.  It can be the same for you - although you will be going after the person you want to become.   Being open to new things along with not wanting to be stuck in the picture frame of our own picture of life.   Thanks for listening.  Please take a few moments to subscribe & share this with someone, also leave a 5 Star rating on Apple Podcasts and ITunes or other services where you find this show.  Find me on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/coachtoexpectsuccess/   on Twitter:  @coachtosuccess   and on Instagram at:  @coachjohndaly  - My YouTube Channel is at: Coach John Daly.   You can also head on over to https://www.coachtoexpectsuccess.com/ and get in touch with me there on my homepage along with checking out my Top Book list too.  Other things there on my site are being worked on – especially my blog page where I am back to blogging now.

Amazing reminders that come from my students.  A recent exercise of my students taking a Character Trait survey that is connected to our Positivity Project, sure did get me thinking.  You see, I took the same survey again as I want to show my students the tremendous value with things like that I see the importance of it too.  It showed me that the trait of Forgiveness is one that I need to work on or focus on a bit.  After I saw a student's reflections on her results, that helped me to look a little deeper towards mine too.  I am finding incredible value with this and I think you will too.    Check out the site HERE.      Click on "Take The Free Survey" button in the upper right corner.   You don't have to pay any $ for the free feedback.   Try it out.   Thanks for listening.  Please take a few moments to subscribe & share this with someone, also leave a 5 Star rating on Apple Podcasts and ITunes or other services where you find this show.  Find me on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/coachtoexpectsuccess/   on Twitter:  @coachtosuccess   and on Instagram at:  @coachjohndaly  - My YouTube Channel is at: Coach John Daly.   You can also head on over to https://www.coachtoexpectsuccess.com/ and get in touch with me there on my homepage along with checking out my Top Book list too.  Other things there on my site are being worked on – especially my blog page where I am back to blogging now.

In this episode, I have a great conversation with Mike Erwin where we discuss our thoughts and feelings on the current state of affairs in Afghanistan and how to maintain a positive outlook despite the circumstances.  Mike shares how he maintains his edge and positive outlook, some of his daily high performance habits.  We discuss how Team Red, White, and Blue was founded and the future of the organization and some highlights of his books:  “Lead Yourself First” and upcoming book: “Leadership Is A Relationship.”    Book's Referenced:    “Range” by David Epstein  “The Alchemist” by Paulo Coelho  “Lead Yourself First: Inspiring Leadership Through Solitude” by Mike Erwin and Raymond Kethledge  “Leadership Is A Relationship” by Mike Erwin and Willys Devoll    Organization Referenced:  Team RBW:  www.teamrwb.org  Positivity Project: https://posproject.org   MIKE ERWIN was born and raised in Syracuse, NY.  He has dedicated his life to serving the nation and empowering people to build positive relationships and become more resilient.  Mike lives on a 32 acre Homestead outside Fort Bragg, North Carolina, with his wife Genevieve and their 5 children; Eli, Adelaide, Therese, Matthias and Zelie.   Mike is the founder & CEO of The Character & Leadership Center and has worked with companies including Amazon, SAP, and Stryker; Special Forces units; and professional sports teams including the Boston Celtics and the NJ Devils.  He is  co-author of LEAD YOURSELF FIRST by Bloomsbury Press (2017). The book focuses on how solitude strengthens people's character---and their ability to lead with clarity, balance and conviction.  He is working on his next book, LEADERSHIP IS A RELATIONSHIP, that will unpack his graduate school thesis research about the intersection of character strengths and leadership. A 2002 graduate of The U.S. Military Academy at West Point with a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics, Mike was commissioned as an Intelligence Officer, serving in three combat tours with the First Cavalry Division and 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne). His service includes deployment to Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2004-2005---that involved the Battles of Fallujah and Najaf.  Mike also deployed to Kandahar, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2006-2007 and 2009. He earned two Bronze Star Medals from these tours.    Following his third deployment, Mike attended the University of Michigan from 2009-2011, where he earned a Master's degree in positive psychology and leadership under the tutelage of the co-founder of positive psychology, Dr. Chris Peterson.  While a graduate student, he founded a non-profit organization named Team Red, White & Blue (Team RWB), whose mission is to enrich the lives of America's veterans by connecting them to their communities through p

On this episode of Got Your 6, Tony Nash talks with Mike Erwin, the founder and executive director of https://www.teamrwb.org/ (Team Red, White, and Blue (Team RWB)), a non-profit that connects veterans to the local communities through sports. Mike talks about how he stays fit physically and mentally and shares some actionable advice on how he manages his time, improves himself, and navigates his time and schedule to achieve maximum results. Mental and Physical Fitness Mike's time in the Army continues to impact his life – from as simple as his affinity for the Jacob's ladder (which began during a 2009 Afghanistan deployment) to subscribing to a solid routine and working out in the morning. While he is not as physically active as he was during the Army, he says he's now back at it “with a vengeance.” The two books that have made an impact on his life and that he keeps on re-reading are: 100 Ways to Motive Yourself (2012) by Steve Chandler helps a person create an action plan for living his vision in business and in life.  The Alchemist (1993) by Paolo Coelho, a fiction that tells the story of a shepherd boy Santiago, who yearns to travel in search of a worldly treasure as extravagant as any ever found. Citing the lessons from The Alchemist, Mike is a big believer that everything happens for a reason and that failures pave the road to success. “It can be dangerous when we tell that to other people: ‘Ah, everything happens for a reason, don't worry about it.' But the reality is, if you take that approach and that view into life, that the setbacks and the adversity and the mistakes that you made – while it feels like in the moment you're like ‘Ugh that was terrible, what a big mistake!' – if you can learn to see that for what it is… A setback is a setup for a comeback.” On Failures as Temporary Setbacks Mike is also the co-founder & president of https://posproject.org/ (The Positivity Project), a non-profit group that aims to empower the youth to build positive relationships. But it took several hiccups along the way before the organization became what it is today. Mike and his partner committed a big mistake when they used philanthropy as the organization's business model. They later realized it was not feasible for their business, which focuses on character education because schools already have a budget for that. So they tweaked their model – from seeking grants to building a business that would make schools want to pay them for training, curriculum, and resources, among others. That huge mistake proved to be their key to success to have a sustainable business. Urgent vs Important and the Importance of Tracking Time  In 2014, Mike learned to view things using the Eisenhower Box, which helps a person decide on and prioritize tasks by urgency and importance. It helps users sort out less urgent and important tasks which could be either delegated or ignored. Another thing that has transformed his life is tracking his time. He tracks if he has spent too long on emails, if he has not exercised much in a week, or has done things for leisure, such as golf. Mike said this becomes very important in making sure you have as much time as possible to spend on important but not urgent things, such as relationships planning, eating, health, and exercising. These activities are usually those that get ignored easily. He says he applies this in menial tasks such as getting rid of cables in the house and deleting useless apps from his phone – things that take his time mindlessly. A 32-hectare farm owner, Mike says he makes most of his business decisions while working on the property. On Constant Improvement and His Personal Relationship with Technology Mike likens constant self-improvement to tango – 2 steps forward, one step back – as growth is not linear. He also believes growth comes at a gradual pace. As he counts time, Mike says he has improved his relationship with technology and the digital world,...

On this episode of Got Your 6, Tony Nash talks with Mike Erwin, the founder and executive director of https://www.teamrwb.org/ (Team Red, White, and Blue (Team RWB)), a non-profit that connects veterans to the local communities through sports. Mike talks about how he stays fit physically and mentally and shares some actionable advice on how he manages his time, improves himself, and navigates his time and schedule to achieve maximum results. Mental and Physical Fitness Mike's time in the Army continues to impact his life – from as simple as his affinity for the Jacob's ladder (which began during a 2009 Afghanistan deployment) to subscribing to a solid routine and working out in the morning. While he is not as physically active as he was during the Army, he says he's now back at it “with a vengeance.” The two books that have made an impact on his life and that he keeps on re-reading are: 100 Ways to Motive Yourself (2012) by Steve Chandler helps a person create an action plan for living his vision in business and in life.  The Alchemist (1993) by Paolo Coelho, a fiction that tells the story of a shepherd boy Santiago, who yearns to travel in search of a worldly treasure as extravagant as any ever found. Citing the lessons from The Alchemist, Mike is a big believer that everything happens for a reason and that failures pave the road to success. “It can be dangerous when we tell that to other people: ‘Ah, everything happens for a reason, don't worry about it.' But the reality is, if you take that approach and that view into life, that the setbacks and the adversity and the mistakes that you made – while it feels like in the moment you're like ‘Ugh that was terrible, what a big mistake!' – if you can learn to see that for what it is… A setback is a setup for a comeback.” On Failures as Temporary Setbacks Mike is also the co-founder & president of https://posproject.org/ (The Positivity Project), a non-profit group that aims to empower the youth to build positive relationships. But it took several hiccups along the way before the organization became what it is today. Mike and his partner committed a big mistake when they used philanthropy as the organization's business model. They later realized it was not feasible for their business, which focuses on character education because schools already have a budget for that. So they tweaked their model – from seeking grants to building a business that would make schools want to pay them for training, curriculum, and resources, among others. That huge mistake proved to be their key to success to have a sustainable business. Urgent vs Important and the Importance of Tracking Time  In 2014, Mike learned to view things using the Eisenhower Box, which helps a person decide on and prioritize tasks by urgency and importance. It helps users sort out less urgent and important tasks which could be either delegated or ignored. Another thing that has transformed his life is tracking his time. He tracks if he has spent too long on emails, if he has not exercised much in a week, or has done things for leisure, such as golf. Mike said this becomes very important in making sure you have as much time as possible to spend on important but not urgent things, such as relationships planning, eating, health, and exercising. These activities are usually those that get ignored easily. He says he applies this in menial tasks such as getting rid of cables in the house and deleting useless apps from his phone – things that take his time mindlessly. A 32-hectare farm owner, Mike says he makes most of his business decisions while working on the property. On Constant Improvement and His Personal Relationship with Technology Mike likens constant self-improvement to tango – 2 steps forward, one step back – as growth is not linear. He also believes growth comes at a gradual pace. As he counts time, Mike says he has improved his relationship with technology and the digital world,...

Change comes when you make one person's day. Aaliyan Khan is the founder of The Positivity Project, co-host of the See Me Show podcast, and an aspiring life coach. For more information about Aaliyan or to connect with him, follow his Instagram @aaliyanskhan.

Host Tim K. joins Mike Erwin, the founder of Team RWB (Red, White, and Blue) and the Positivity Project, at Grace and Glory Farms in Pinehurst, North Carolina. The two discuss Mike’s time at West Point, his position overseas as an intelligence officer in support of Special Operations, and his path of service outside of the military. Mike also gets into the aspects of forming cultural change and what he is doing at a foundational level to help promote core character traits in our youth.  This podcast is accompanied by Erwin’s entire story which is available on the blog at www.thevetsproject.com/the-blog/LTC-Mike-Erwin. Check out Mike’s various initiatives at www.teamrwb.org and www.posproject.org. You can also follow along on Instagram: @erwinrwb, @teamrwb, and @posproject.

“The questions we ask drive the caliber of the conversations we have.” – Mike ErwinDive in as Mike and Steve share a powerful dialogue on the power of leaning in as leaders to improve upon our strengths, empowering teams with enthusiasm and optimism. Mike Erwin is the co-founder and Chairman of the Board of The Positivity Project. A 2002 graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, he served in the Army on Active Duty for 13 years, including three deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan, and is currently a Lieutenant Colonel in the Army Reserves. In 2010, Mike founded Team Red, White & Blue (Team RWB), a non-profit organization that enriches veterans' lives by connecting them to their community through physical and social activity. He serves on the Board for the organization, now 198 chapters and 114,000 members strong. Mike earned his master's degree in positive psychology and leadership, under the tutelage of Chris Peterson, from the University of Michigan — and taught leadership at West Point. He is the co-author of Lead Yourself First: Inspiring Leadership Through Solitude. Mike and his wife, Genevieve, live in the Village of Pinehurst, NC, with their five children.Be sure to share with a friend and subscribe to stay up to date on our weekly interviews. If you're interested in learning more about Game On's programming, please visit wwww.gameonnation.com!

Matt and Debbie speak with Meg Frederick, founder of the Mindfulness and Positivity Project, which seeks to bring meditation practices to schools in the Colorado Springs area. Stay tuned for an awesome guided meditation at the end!

Elisabeth is a New York Times best-selling author, Emmy award-winning television co-host graduated from Boston College in 1999. Elisabeth played on their Big East Division I Championship Softball team while majoring in Studio Art and holding an apprenticeship at Reebok in their design department. After graduating, Elisabeth designed footwear for PUMA. In 2000, she competed in the second season of Survivor, The Australian Outback, outlasting her way to the final four. She co-hosted "The Look For Less" on E! Networks for three years, and then co-hosted the daytime talk show, The View on ABC, for ten years, marking a decade at the table with Barbara Walters. In 2013, Elisabeth joined the morning News Broadcast of Fox News Channel's, FOX & Friends, where she served as a co-host for two years. As a gluten-free celiac, Elisabeth has written "The G-Free Diet" and "Deliciously G-free" both about her journey cooking and living joyfully with Celiac disease. Her third book "Point of View" details her time at the View, and looking back on those years through God's lens, and the perspective of faith through the lessons she has learned the hard way. Elisabeth has been a member of TeamRWB, a veteran nonprofit since its founding year, and currently sits on the advisory board of The Positivity Project. Elisabeth is married to former NFL quarterback and ESPN analyst, Tim Hasselbeck, and they have three children, Grace, Taylor and Isaiah. Her latest book, Flashlight Night: An Adventure in Trusting God is now available for pre-order, releasing on February 2nd. JOIN BOB WEEKLYWe've launched a new subscription-based offering with exclusive content from the one and only Bob Goff.In vintage Bob fashion, you can join him on his adventure of living a life of whimsy, love, and action. Each week you'll receive a video message from Bob, plus guided reflection exercises and activities for personal growth and structured conversations with friends. Now more than ever we need to look to voices we can trust. If Bob's message has inspired you in the past, you're not going to want to miss out on Bob Weekly. So sign up today and let Bob guide you as you go through this unpredictable thing called your life.Learn More bobgoff.com/weeklyOn the episode:Producer : Tatave AbeshyanProducer & Co-host : Scott Schimmel

Elisabeth is a New York Times best-selling author, Emmy award-winning television co-host graduated from Boston College in 1999. Elisabeth played on their Big East Division I Championship Softball team while majoring in Studio Art and holding an apprenticeship at Reebok in their design department. After graduating, Elisabeth designed footwear for PUMA. In 2000, she competed in the second season of Survivor, The Australian Outback, outlasting her way to the final four. She co-hosted "The Look For Less" on E! Networks for three years, and then co-hosted the daytime talk show, The View on ABC, for ten years, marking a decade at the table with Barbara Walters. In 2013, Elisabeth joined the morning News Broadcast of Fox News Channel's, FOX & Friends, where she served as a co-host for two years. As a gluten-free celiac, Elisabeth has written "The G-Free Diet" and "Deliciously G-free" both about her journey cooking and living joyfully with Celiac disease. Her third book "Point of View" details her time at the View, and looking back on those years through God's lens, and the perspective of faith through the lessons she has learned the hard way. Elisabeth has been a member of TeamRWB, a veteran nonprofit since its founding year, and currently sits on the advisory board of The Positivity Project. Elisabeth is married to former NFL quarterback and ESPN analyst, Tim Hasselbeck, and they have three children, Grace, Taylor and Isaiah. Her latest book, Flashlight Night: An Adventure in Trusting God is now available for pre-order, releasing on February 2nd. JOIN BOB WEEKLYWe've launched a new subscription-based offering with exclusive content from the one and only Bob Goff.In vintage Bob fashion, you can join him on his adventure of living a life of whimsy, love, and action. Each week you'll receive a video message from Bob, plus guided reflection exercises and activities for personal growth and structured conversations with friends. Now more than ever we need to look to voices we can trust. If Bob's message has inspired you in the past, you're not going to want to miss out on Bob Weekly. So sign up today and let Bob guide you as you go through this unpredictable thing called your life.Learn More bobgoff.com/weeklyOn the episode:Producer : Tatave AbeshyanProducer & Co-host : Scott Schimmel

In this weeks episode we talk about the fact that Christmas comes earlier and earlier each year.  Mike and Kris each have a different take on how early is too early for them and what the holiday feels like for them.  We also started our year end discussions about coming up with your One Word for 2021.  You can find the book here:https://www.amazon.com/Word-That-Will-Change-Expanded/dp/1118809424/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=one+word&qid=1603932232&sr=8-1You can find the action plan for the book here:http://getoneword.com/actionplans/We have an AWESOME challenge for this week and that's to go on a Gratitude Scavenger Hunt.  Check out our FB group for the details.  Just search for The Positivity Project with Kris & Mike.Give us a call and let us know what's on your mind at 301-392-7745! Make sure to hit “Subscribe” so you don't miss an episode! Give us a 5 star rating on Apple Podcasts and let us know what you think! Check out krisquade.com for all of your coaching needs! Follow us on Social Media:Facebook Group ~ The Positivity Project with Kris & MikeInstagram & Twitter ~ @positivityprojectpod Until next time.....Choose Positivity My Friends!

What an episode we have for you today. It's so good that this is Part 1 of 2. We have the great privilege of being joined by Elana Rosenbaum, one of the pioneers of mindfulness based stress reduction. That's not an exaggeration. Elana has been practicing, studying, and teaching mindfulness since the 1980s and her teaching has been fundamental in the creation of the Mindfulness and Positivity Project. Elana talks to us about the basics of mindfulness and why it reduces stress. She explains the distinction between the words mindfulness and meditation and tells us why the coronavirus pandemic presents an opportunity for practicing mindfulness.You can learn more about Elana's free, online guided mindfulness practices at her website: www.elanarosenbaum.comLearn more about us at www.mindfulandpositive.comE-mail us at mindfulandpositive@gmail.com

Mike Erwin is the Founder & Executive Director of Team Red, White & Blue (Team RWB).  Team RWB’s mission is to enrich the lives of America’s veterans by connecting them to their communities through physical and social activity.  He is also the CEO of the Character & Leadership Center, and the Co-founder & President of The Positivity Project—a non-profit organization with the mission to empower America’s youth to build positive relationships. With 425 partner schools, the organization reaches 260,000 children daily. He is the co-author of LEAD YOURSELF FIRST by Bloomsbury Press (2017). The book focuses on how solitude strengthens people’s character—and their ability to lead with clarity, balance, and conviction. Mike is also a Lt. Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves, assigned to the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he serves as an Assistant Professor in Leadership & Psychology. He also serves as the founding Chairman of the Board for Father Vincent Capodanno High School, outside Fort Bragg, NC. Mike graduated from West Point in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics. He was commissioned as an Intelligence Officer, serving in three combat tours with the First Cavalry Division and 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne). His service includes deployment to Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2004–2005 that involved the Battles of Fallujah and Najaf. Mike also deployed to Kandahar, Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2006–2007 and 2009. On those tours, he worked with NATO forces, to include serving as a lead intelligence planner for one of the largest NATO-led combat operation in history. Mike earned two Bronze Star Medals from these tours. Following his third deployment, Mike attended the University of Michigan from 2009–2011, where he studied positive psychology and leadership under the tutelage of the co-founder of Positive Psychology, Dr. Chris Peterson. He went on to serve as an Assistant Professor in Psychology & Leadership at the U.S. Military Academy from 2011–2014. While assigned to West Point as a Major, Mike served as a lead planner for the Bob McDonald Global Leadership Conference and was the aide-de-camp to the Class of 1951 Chair for the Study of Leadership, held by Jim Collins and then Tom Tierney. For show notes, visit www.calwalters.me

E789 | Positivity Project! If you want more motivation like what you will hear today, then subscribe at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC_e0zCKJyBdLYAvTQBgQrPw Everything I input is Positive! I don’t listen to the narrative! What you are experiencing is the manifestation of the input that you are taking in! Your thoughts become things, and you can’t blame anyone else! You are the cause and effect! Listen Now! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sharla and Daniel record inside the freshly maintained Roo Bus! Among other things, we talk with Jessica of The Radiate Positivity Project. You've probably seen their stickers and magnets everywhere, we learn from them about what their goals are during the quarantine and beyond. We also take a little time to recognize the graduating Class of 2020, and also want to brainstorm with you about a "Virtual Roo" we might all hold next month!

Mike Erwin lives life by three principles: faith, family, and service. He truly understands the impact of selfless service and community. Mike is a graduate of The U.S. Military Academy at West Point where he was commissioned as an officer and went on to serve three combat tours with the 1st Cavalry Division and 3rd Special Forces Group. After his third deployment, Mike founded Team Red, White & Blue. Team RWB is a nonprofit organization that enriches the lives of America's veterans. They do this by connecting them to their communities through physical and social activity. Today, Mike leads Team RWB as Executive Director. Mike also serves as CEO of The Character & Leadership Center and is the Co-Founder and President of the Positivity Project, where he aims to empower America's youth in building positive relationships. He's also the co-author of Lead Yourself First." To learn more about Mike and his work, visit MikeErwin.net. On this episode, you'll hear about: - What selfless service looks like - The power of community - How technology and money affect empathy - The difference between isolation and solitude - Our culture's loneliness epidemic - Advice for anyone who wants to bring more meaning into their life

On this week's PODFLASH we talk about building the GRIT muscle & we have an acronym for you to remember how to do that!Make sure you hit subscribe so you don't miss an episode and give us a 5 star rating!Follow us on social media:Facebook group ~ The Positivity Project with Kris & MikeInstagram & Twitter ~ @positivityprojectpodUntil next time......Choose Positivity My Friends!

This week we talk about how a lack of gratitude for one week caused a major shift in our lives.  We also talk about how we do our goal planning, what our goals are and we finally reveal our One Words for 2020!Share your goals and your One Word for 2020 on our social media:Facebook group ~ The Positivity Project with Kris & MikeInstagram & Twitter ~ @positivityprojectpodLearn how to figure out your One Word:http://getoneword.com/about-the-book/Until next time......Choose Positivity My Friends!

Amy Stohs, a 6th grade teacher from Virginia, joins us to talk about the Positivity Project, an exciting movement that helps grow students character and build classroom community. Join us to discover simple ways to engage your students in discussions about character, positivity, and the truth that other people matter.  Get notes and links at www.teach4theheart.com/p2  

It's been awhile since I sat down and had a conversation with Dr. Jeff Lip. It was a great start to my day getting to meet with him at our favorite spot - the Library. He's being uncomfortable again with a new direction he going in for his professional career. Sit back and enjoy the lessons he shares with us about this whole process. We talked about a few things from an article I found about Choosing Growth Over Comfort - find it here: https://www.success.com/choose-growth-over-comfort-your-success-depends-on-it/ Jeff also brought up the Positivity Project that we are using in our district - so many powerful lessons in this project that is amazing for both students and staff. You should really check out the free survey to check out your connection to the 24 Character Traits - http://www.viacharacter.org/ - Then click upper left "Take The Free Survey" and then check out your results. Self reflection is such a huge deal in life. Thanks for listening. Please take a few moments to subscribe & share this with someone, also leave a 5 Star rating on ITunes or other services where you find this show. Find me on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coachtoexpectsuccess/ on Twitter: @coachtosuccess and on Instagram at: @coachjohndaly You can also head on over to https://www.coachtoexpectsuccess.com/ and get in touch with me there on my homepage along with checking out my Top Book list too. Other things there on my site are being worked on – especially my blog page where I am back to blogging now.

Podcast #133 (The Positivity Project & Mental Health With Mr. John Daly & Ms. Jodie Kleymeer)

Mike Erwin joins us as a guest teacher for this class! CEO of The Character Center, co-founder of the Positivity Project, and co-author of the book Lead Yourself First, Mike is passionate about inspiring leaders across the country. His secret sauce to leadership? Solitude! (More specifically, freedom from the input of other minds.) In this class, Mike debunks the assumption that great leaders must always be accessible and uncovers the personal + organizational benefits of leaders who seek out periods of solitude. Want the competitive advantages of clarity, creativity, emotional balance + moral courage? Get your solitude on!

Mike Erwin joins us as a guest teacher for this class! CEO of The Character Center, co-founder of the Positivity Project, and co-author of the book Lead Yourself First, Mike is passionate about inspiring leaders across the country. His secret sauce to leadership? Solitude! (More specifically, freedom from the input of other minds.) In this class, Mike debunks the assumption that great leaders must always be accessible and uncovers the personal + organizational benefits of leaders who seek out periods of solitude. Want the competitive advantages of clarity, creativity, emotional balance + moral courage? Get your solitude on!

In this episode, Mike Erwin, Founder of Team Red White & Blue (RWB), talks with Jim and Jan about how positive psychology and character affect leadership development. Whether it’s through his work at the Positivity Project, Team RWB, or teaching at West Point, Mike is clear on his purpose and serving others. He believes both that in relationship building and community, and the great power of solitude. Mike discusses the principles by which he organizes his life, and tactical and time management methods he uses to bring value, priority, and consistency into all of his projects.   Key Takeaways [1:26] As the Founder and Board Member, of Team Red, White & Blue, Mike and his team created the standard to organize a non-profit, and to help veterans transition from active duty to civilian life. Mike’s original mission was to help veterans better understand their potential, and to build a team that is responsive and engaged. At its core, the organization is about helping veterans connect with other people. [6:18] The average person in a day sees 30,000 brand impressions. Mike takes this information for Team RWB and uses it to set his mission apart, by developing a strategy that creates sustainable revenue. Team RWB encourages the members to share the story to create social agency, and reaches big corporations and foundations through brand strength and what every member associated with the organization represents.    [10:35] Mike founded Team RWB in 2010, and was the Chairman until March 2017 and Volunteer Executive Director for the first two years. [14:51] Solitude gives us the clarity, creativity, emotional balance and moral courage that is necessary for strong and powerful leadership. [19:02] Psychology has only been around for 150 years, and gained traction on the heels of World War II. Studying positive psychology lets us in to a world of knowledge in what makes life more meaningful and purposeful. [22:19] Give yourself a good four days to fully reap the benefit of solitude. [30:18] Mike sums up his two day seminars with Day 1: Lead Yourself First and Day 2: Leadership as a Relationship. There is not a one-size fits all framework or perfect sound-bite for leadership, and Mike believes it is crucial to step back and invest in a leadership development program that moves the needle. [37:44] Mike shares how he organizes his time and output of energy. Whether he is serving in the army reserves, nonprofit, education and business, he makes sure that everything he accepts and takes on mutually reinforces his core values and mission. [43:12] If you want to do more and posses more focus while you are doing it, a tactical first step is to cut out the extras in your life that don’t serve a purpose.  Replace 30 minutes a day of social media scrolling, or passive TV watching, with an activity that breeds passion and purpose. [51:50] Mike is committed to finding 30 minutes a day of uninterrupted time to read and spend time thinking big picture and analytically.   Quotable Quotes “We are hungry to reach more, to do more, to become better.” “Can you develop a strategy that creates earned revenue?” With solitude you gain clarity and moral courage that is necessary to lead. Relationships are the number one driver of life satisfaction. Before you can lead other people, you need to be able to lead yourself. Life is too complicated and complex for everyone to be understood under one framework. You must invest time and energy in the process of leadership development. Ask yourself: “Am I adding significant value back to other people, and am I developing value within people?” The long term success of our entire society is at stake. We must think less about ourselves and more about our community, team, organization and family. You have to cut the noise out of your life. The number one driver of a meaningful life is having a positive impact on other people’s lives. Find time every day to read books that challenge you.   Twitter: @ErwinRWB Instagram @ErwinRWB LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-erwin-9ba1804/ http://characterleadership.center/ Lead Yourself First: Inspiring Leadership Through Solitude   Team Red, White & Blue Character and Leadership Center The Positivity Project Run as One Seattle Kim Cameron Martin Seligman Angela Duckworth     MIKE ERWIN is the CEO of the Character & Leadership Center, whose mission is to produce better leaders through a deeper understanding of positive psychology and character.  He also serves as the co-founder & president of the Positivity Project, a non-profit organization with the mission to empower America’s youth build strong relationships.  In 2010, Mike founded the veteran-support non-profit, Team Red, White & Blue (Team RWB) where he still serves on the Board of Directors. He is the co-author of Lead Yourself First – Inspiring Leadership Through Solitude from Bloomsbury Press.  Mike deployed to Iraq once and Afghanistan twice, and still serves as a Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves---assigned to the United States Military Academy at West Point as an Assistant Professor in Psychology & Leadership.  He currently lives in Pinehurst, NC, with his wife and their four young children.

Yes, leadership is built on developing relationships with other people. But there are several key character strengths of leadership that we hone in solitude, including creativity, self-regulation and bravery. And leaders throughout history have made difficult decisions and designed creative solutions in solitude. In the digital age, however, solitude is a lot harder for leaders to come by. How can we discipline ourselves to put away the smartphone and be with our thoughts long enough to think through difficult decisions, stay on purpose, and create innovative solutions? Today, Jeffrey sits down with Mike Erwin, the CEO of the Character & Leadership Center and President of The Positivity Project to discuss the leadership qualities he demonstrated in kindergarten and his long history of curiosity around leading people in a positive way. Mike shares the inspiration for his book, Lead Yourself First, explaining how it evolved to become a study of how great leaders practiced solitude during meaningful times. He speaks to the virtues of leadership honed by productive solitude and the difference between a brilliant creative idea and a foolish one. Listen in to understand how the appreciation of beauty can lift you out of adversity and learn to embrace productive solitude in your own life! Key Takeaways [2:29] Mike’s young genius ‘Going to be leader’ on kindergarten report card Desire to engage, bring best out of others [4:55] The mentors who influenced Mike growing up Little League baseball coach/veteran HS baseball coach (character over skill) [9:24] Mike’s curiosity around leading people in a positive way Formal study of leadership, positive psychology Look for good and positive vs. shortcomings and flaws [12:22] What Mike learned as a leader in the military Not about you, but people you lead (selfless service) Served as intelligence officer in Iraq, Afghanistan Real consequences if predictions incorrect [16:40] The inspiration for Lead Yourself First Talk, article by William Deresiewicz article Jim Collins suggested study of great leaders Practice of solitude in meaningful times [22:43] The cultural conversation around a need for solitude Reflect on relationship with technology Need time to step back and think for self [28:21] The pros and cons of digital communication Working remotely can facilitate deep work Temptation to call meetings Burnout caused by always being ‘on’ [37:34] The virtues of leadership honed by productive solitude Creativity, self-regulation and courage [42:19] Mike’s favorite example of creativity in leadership Ulysses S. Grant and the Battle of Vicksburg [49:11] The difference between reckless and brilliant ideas Creative ideas easier than execution Must have character to see idea through [53:00] Mike’s ability to appreciate beauty amidst adversity Sunset in desert during deployment Lifts out of hardship, difficulty of moment [56:43] Mike’s insight on embracing productive solitude Deliberately schedule time Take advantage of pockets of opportunity [1:01:01] What Mike is questing for moving forward Continue to grow The Positivity Project Promote mindset that ‘other people matter’ Connect with Mike The Positivity Project Character & Leadership Center Team RWB Resources Lead Yourself First: Inspiring Leadership Through Solitude by Raymond M. Kethledge and Michael S. Erwin ‘Solitude and Leadership’ by William Deresiewicz Books by Jim Collins Solitude: A Singular Life in a Crowded World by Michael Harris Rest: Why You Get More Done When You Work Less by Alex Soojung-Kim Pang Brené Brown Character Strengths and Virtues by Christopher Peterson and Martin E. P. Seligman ‘The Virtues of Isolation’ by Brent Crane

This is Positivity Project President Mike Erwin - on the Finding Mastery podcast with Michael Gervais - explaining his true definition of optimism.Full podcast available at hyperurl.co/Mike-Erwin

Today's episode features Mike Erwin - West Point Leadership Instructor, author of Lead Yourself First, and founder of The Positivity Project (a non-profit organization that brings character education to America's youth). In this wide-ranging conversation, Mike and I explored topics like: -Handling pressure -Emotional mastery in the heat of the moment -Solitude and how spending time reflecting and turning inward can promote effective leadership, positive relationships, moral courage, meaning and fulfillment (all of which are themes in Mike's book Lead Yourself First). -Mike's experiences in the military as an intelligence officer -Promoting character education in schools through Mike's non-profit, the Positivity Project. For show notes, links to more about Mike and his work, and more, visit www.joshuasteinfeldt.com/podcast Mike Erwin's background: Mike Erwin is the CEO of The Character & Leadership Center and co-founder & president of the Positivity Project - a non-profit organization with the mission to empower America's youth to build stronger relationships. He is the co-author of Lead Yourself First by Bloomsbury Press (2017). The book focuses on how solitude strengthens people's character---and their ability to lead with clarity, balance and conviction. Mike is also a Lt. Colonel in the U.S. Army Reserves, assigned to the United States Military Academy at West Point, where he serves as an Assistant Professor in Leadership & Psychology. Mike graduated from West Point in 2002 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Economics. He was commissioned as an Intelligence Officer, serving in three combat tours with the First Cavalry Division and 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne). Mike earned two Bronze Star Medals from these tours. Following his third deployment, Mike attended the University of Michigan from 2009- 2011, where he studied positive psychology and leadership under the tutelage of the co- founder of positive psychology, Dr. Chris Peterson. While in graduate school in 2010, Mike founded a non-profit organization named Team Red, White & Blue (Team RWB). Team RWB's mission is to enrich the lives of America's veterans by connecting them to their communities through physical and social activity. He volunteered as the Executive Director for 3 years and continues to serve on the Board of Directors. Team RWB has 138,000 members and 212 chapters across the world.Support the show (https://joshuasteinfeldt.com/donate/)

This is Positivity Project President Mike Erwin - on the Finding Mastery podcast with Michael Gervais - sharing his strategy for “switching off” and recovering. Full podcast available at hyperurl.co/Mike-Erwin Receive a free 20-count travel pack of Athletic Greens (valued at $99) with any purchase! Claim here: athleticgreens.com/findingmastery

Intro Hi and welcome to Books Between - a podcast for teachers, parents, librarians, and anyone who wants to connect kids between 8-12 to books they will love. I’m your host, Corrina Allen - a mom of two daughters and a 5th grade teacher in Central New York. My goal is to help you find fabulous books for your kids and help create a community where we all can support each other as we build those readers. This is Episode #36 and today is all about graphic novels! Before we start the show today, I am excited to tell you that this month’s episodes are sponsored by WriteAbout.com - a writing community and digital platform that is tailor made for students of all ages.  Their school platform can connect all your classrooms for shared writing topics. So if your school is like mine and has certain themes for each week, Write About for Schools makes it really easy for every class to read and respond to each other’s published writing.  So, if you or someone you know is looking for a way to bring your school together by celebrating student authors, definitely check out WriteAbout.com. And at the end of the show, I’ll share with you what my class plans to write about this week. Main Topic - CYBILS Before we jump into the book talks for the show - a little bit of news. I am so excited to be a round one judge for the CYBILS this year in the graphic novels category, so I am taking a deep dive into as many middle grade graphic novels published in the last year as I can get my hands on. Phew! So if you are not familiar, the CYBILS are the Children’s and Young Adult Bloggers’ Literary Awards.  This award started in 2006 and aims to recognize the children’s and young adult authors and illustrators whose books combine the highest literary merit and popular appeal. There are about a dozen categories and subcategories within Picture Books to Middle Grade to Young Adult.  Nominations take place from October 1st - October 15th so you still have time to go to cybils.com and nominate your favorite books. Finalists in each category are announced on January 1st and winners are revealed on February 14th. So be on the lookout for those. Last year’s middle grade winners included Ghost by Jason Reynolds, The Last Fifth Grade of Emerson Elementary by Laura Shovan, Shadow Magic by Joshua Khan, and Lowriders to the Center of the Earth, Book 2 by Cathy Camper and Raul the Third. So, some pretty fabulous choices. I’ve been following the CYBILS for a long time and using their lists as a resource, but this is my first time participating as a judge, and I’m honored to be working alongside a great team, including our very own Mel Shuit from All the Wonders! So, in other words, expect to be hearing a lot more about the great graphic novels of the past year. Starting…. now. Book Talk - Three Fresh New Graphic Novels In this section of the show, I share with you three books centered around a theme and discuss three things to love about each book. This week - as promised - it’s all about graphic novels! And since my aim is to keep you up to date on what’s new and fresh and really good in the world of middle grade, here are three new graphic novels to introduce to your readers.  They are Swing It, Sunny by Jennifer & Matthew Holm, Invisible Emmie by Terri Libenson, and All’s Faire in Middle School by Victoria Jamieson. Swing It, Sunny First up is Swing It, Sunny - the much-awaited sequel to Jennifer & Matthew Holm’s Sunny, Side Up. This book picks up with Sunny’s life in September 1976 - right after the summer she spent with her grandfather down in Florida in the first book. This story is all about Sunny’s life back at home, her complicated feelings about her brother Dale, who is now in boarding school, and the challenges of middle school. Here are three things to love about Swing It, Sunny: Seasonal Slice of Life stories. Unlike the first book which was set just in the summer, here we have Sunny starting school, getting fall allergies, reluctantly dressing up as nurse for Halloween, making loom potholders for Christmas gifts…. And small but poignant moments of that year in her life. My 10 year old was wishing for bigger events with a stronger resolution at the end. And for that reason she said she prefered the first book. But, personally, I liked the rhythm and pacing of this book with small moments told over the course of a year. How it explores a complicated relationship between siblings, and the impact that has on the rest of the family. After her older brother, Dale, ends up in a military boarding school for doing drugs and getting into big trouble - at one point Sunny says to her mom, “I miss him. But I don’t miss what it’s like when he’s here.” And I think a lot of kids - in some way or other - can connect to that. I LOVED all the 1970s details!!  I will out my age here and say that I was born in November 1976, a bicentennial baby, so this book felt like stepping back into the avocado green and rust brown and orangey yellow shades of my childhood. When having a TV dinner (cooked in the oven by the way!) was cause for excitement. I’m sure that qualifies this book for “Historical Fiction” status, and kids are obviously not going to have that nostalgic feeling that I had, but I loved all the TV shows referenced - Six Million Dollar Man and Gilligan’s Island and The Brady Bunch and General Hospital… there are so many tiny little details from the antennas on the tvs to the Jiffy Pop pan, to the vintage Golden Grahams cereal box…  Ahhhh….. There’s so much more. But I’ll let you discover all of it. Swing It Sunny is absolutely a must-have graphic novel for kids 8-12.  And they don’t have to have read Sunny, Side Up to enjoy this one, but if you have the first book on hand, I’d recommend starting there so you have the background about what happened the summer before. Invisible Emmie Another great new book is Invisible Emmie by debut author Terri Libenson. This book tells the story of the quiet, un-noticed, hero-in-waiting Emmie Douglass who is trying to deal with the challenges of seventh grade. Things like finding time to go to the bathroom between classes, the awkwardness of changing for PE class, not having a cell phone and feeling left out of things, and…. being completely embarrassed in front of your crush.  Here are three reasons to love Invisible Emmie:   How relatable Emmie is - especially for girls! From the frustration with your curly hair to that anger at yourself for not speaking up in your own defense. I think most girls (and boys!) feel that pressure of fitting in and comparing yourself to your peers, your friends, and to that perfect version of yourself that you wish you were. How this book alternates between the main narrative of Emmie and the story of Katie. And I loved how Emmie’s parts are text with lots of illustrations in softer blues, and tans, and mauves. And the sections from Katie’s point of view are a more traditional graphic novel format with panels and done in brighter yellows and pinks and greens. The blend of those two styles is really well done. How Emmie’s and Katie’s stories come together in the end! As I was reading, I kept theorizing how they were going to connect, and then I started to notice some of the same characters show up in both sections.  That ending and the message of that ending was powerful. Loved it! Terri Libenson’s  Invisible Emmie is funny, heartfelt, and great for kids who love books like Raina Telgemeier’s Drama or Bubbles by Abby Cooper. And I can’t wait to see what this author does next! All’s Faire in Middle School Our final graphic novel is one that my students and I have been anticipating for a long time - and oh was it worth that wait!. It’s All’s Faire in Middle School - by Victoria Jamieson. You might know Ms. Jamieson from her incredible Newbery Honor book - Roller Girl.  This novel is about Imogene - an eleven-year-old girl who has grown up and been schooled at the Florida Renaissance Festival where her father works as a knight and she helps her mother run their family’s arts and crafts store. But - this year two things are changing. One - she starts her training as a squire, which mean more responsibility at the faire. And two - she’s going to public school for the first time and starting middle school. I loved this book so much I am completely breaking my rule of three things. So, here are six things to love about All’s Faire in Middle School: The behind-the-scenes look at the renaissance festival. The jousting, the human chess game, the mud pit, the juggling, and the sword play.   And how Imogene is taught by the other actors to do what’s called “street” -  how to walk and talk and pull visitors into the fun as though they were all REALLY living in a Renaissance village filled with colorful characters. The Elizabethan flavored talk at the fair is so much fun to read. Here, let me give you a sample for you.. This is from page 27. This is when Cussy, an actor who plays a hermit, is teaching Imogene how to interact with the shopkeepers as she walks around the faire. “Good Morrow, and well met, baker! Prithee, hast thou any fresh loaves this morning?” The gorgeous chapter introductions that are in the style of an illuminated manuscript. They are so beautiful!   How this is a story about a family that is poor. Imogene is always a bit torn between her pride in her Ren Faire lifestyle and embarrassment that her family is picking her up in a beat-up old car. Or that she gets dropped of at the shabby apartment complex. Or that they can’t really afford those cool shoes and jeans that would help her blend in more at school. Yeah - relatable. For many many kids. The nuanced struggles and mistakes that Imogene deals with in middle school and at home. She makes BIG mistakes. At one point she harnesses her talent of drawing to be cruel in order to make others laugh. And has to deal with how much she hurt people.  At point she lies to her parents about school work, and gets in huge trouble.  And then - she does something so mean to her little brother that overcoming that one rash act is going to take a lot. But, you know - I see sibling conflict and peer conflict up close every day. And Jamieson gets it right. The small thread about the romance novel. There’s a scene where Imogene and her new friends sneak read part of a romance novel and later she writes the word sex in her journal and then quickly crosses it out. The words from the novel aren’t explicit at all but the context of that thread is so relatable for a lot of preteen and teenaged kids. That impulse to want to know more and yet not feeling really ready for that is handled so well here with a light touch that I’d say would probably be appropriate for most kids in grades 5 and above.   Honestly, I could go on and on about all the reasons I loved All’s Faire in Middle School but instead I think that time would be better spent having YOU just go get it and read it and put it into the hands of kids who are going to love it. And if you ever have the chance to go to a Renaissance Festival - please do it!!  My family always attends the Sterling Renaissance Festival in northern New York, and it is such a blast. We get our hair braided, enjoy a giant turkey leg, and just have fun transporting yourself to another era.  And make sure you check out Matthew Winner’s interview with Victoria Jamieson on episode 386 of the All the Wonders podcast where they talk about All’s Faire and her inspirations for this story. It’s so good! Closing Okay - that wraps up our show this week. We have some great interviews and book talks coming up this fall.  I’ll also be chatting about flexible seating, Shelley Johannes’ Beatrice Zinker, Upside Down Thinker, Shannon Hale’s Real Friends - and of course - even more great new graphic novels. Thank you so much for joining me this week. You can get find a transcript of this show and all of our previous episodes at AlltheWonders.com.  And, if you like the show, please help others find us too by telling a friend, sharing on social media, or leaving a rating on iTunes or Stitcher. And thanks again to WriteAbout.com for supporting the podcast this month - when you visit their website you’ll find fantastic ideas to get your students excited about writing. My school is doing the Positivity Project this year where each week we focus on one character strength. So my students will be writing about how they and others show Perspective. See you in two weeks!  Bye!

Mike Erwin served in the US Army for 13 years, including 3 deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan.He is the Founder and President of The Positivity Project, a non-profit strengthening leadership and relationships through a deeper understanding of character.Mike is also the board chair of Team Red, White, and Blue, providing a network that helps veterans to combat their tendency to isolate themselves as they go through a difficult transition from soldier to civilian.When Mike was nearing the end of his deployment, he looked for a way to continue making a difference, and decided to help veterans returning from war.He's on an endless quest to do good for our country and the world.This conversation is not a military conversation -- it's about relationships and the commitment to help others transition in life.It's about finding purpose across multiple professions and staying true to what matters most to you.

Mike Erwin is an amazing human. After surviving three combat tours in Iraq and Afghanistan as an Intelligence Officer, much of that time directly supporting Special Operations, he started one of the premier veterans support organizations in America: Team Red, White & Blue, or "Team RWB" as it's commonly known. For several years now, Team RWB has been connecting and helping veterans heal through physical fitness, building community, and enacting positive change. Mike is also the Founder and President of The Positivity Project and CEO of The Character & Leadership Center, both organizations that are making incredible strides in developing the next generation of great leaders. In a world that's seemingly saturated in negative energy, Mike Erwin is a positive force connecting those who want to be something truly greater than themselves! "Lead Yourself First: Inspiring Leadership Through Solitude" www.teamrwb.org | www.posproject.org | www.characterleadership.center

Mike Erwin: Lead Yourself First Mike Erwin is the CEO of the Character & Leadership Center and the Founder and President of The Positivity Project, a non-profit organization with the mission to help America’s youth build stronger relationships by recognizing the character strengths in themselves and others. He is the co-author of the book Lead Yourself First: Inspiring Leadership Through Solitude*. Key Points Solitude helps both in intense thinking and also in giving the brain a chance to quiet down. It’s hard to think intensively with a lot going on around you. Even extroverts can benefit from solitude. Start small. Just find a few minutes throughout the day to build a habit of solitude. Social media and solitude can coexist. The four ways solitude benefits leaders: Clarity Creativity Moral Courage Emotional Balance Resources Mentioned Lead Yourself First: Inspiring Leadership Through Solitude* by Raymond M. Kethledge and Mike Erwin The Character & Leadership Center Team Red, White, & Blue The Positivity Project Activate Your Free Coaching for Leaders Membership Get immediate access to my free, 10-day audio course, 10 Ways to Empower the People You Lead. Give me 10 minutes a day for 10 days to get the most immediate, practical actions to become a better leader. Join at CoachingforLeaders.com. Related Episodes CFL184: Getting Things Done with David Allen CFL196: Marshall Goldsmith on Triggers: Creating Behavior That Lasts CFL211: How to Be Present and Productive CFL214: Stop Worrying and Start Living Next Episode Bonni and I return for the monthly question and answer show. Submit your question for consideration next week or for the first question and answer show the first Monday of every month at http://coachingforleaders.com/feedback

Mike Erwin: Lead Yourself First Mike Erwin is the CEO of the Character & Leadership Center and the Founder and President of The Positivity Project, a non-profit organization with the mission to help America’s youth build stronger relationships by recognizing the character strengths in themselves and others. He is the co-author of the book Lead Yourself First: Inspiring Leadership Through Solitude*. Key Points Solitude helps both in intense thinking and also in giving the brain a chance to quiet down. It’s hard to think intensively with a lot going on around you. Even extroverts can benefit from solitude. Start small. Just find a few minutes throughout the day to build a habit of solitude. Social media and solitude can coexist. The four ways solitude benefits leaders: Clarity Creativity Moral Courage Emotional Balance Resources Mentioned Lead Yourself First: Inspiring Leadership Through Solitude* by Raymond M. Kethledge and Mike Erwin The Character & Leadership Center Team Red, White, & Blue The Positivity Project Activate Your Free Coaching for Leaders Membership Get immediate access to my free, 10-day audio course, 10 Ways to Empower the People You Lead. Give me 10 minutes a day for 10 days to get the most immediate, practical actions to become a better leader. Join at CoachingforLeaders.com. Related Episodes CFL184: Getting Things Done with David Allen CFL196: Marshall Goldsmith on Triggers: Creating Behavior That Lasts CFL211: How to Be Present and Productive CFL214: Stop Worrying and Start Living Next Episode Bonni and I return for the monthly question and answer show. Submit your question for consideration next week or for the first question and answer show the first Monday of every month at http://coachingforleaders.com/feedback

Mike Erwin founded Team RWB in 2010 while he was a Captain in the Army and currently serves as a member of the Board of Directors. He served on active duty for 13 years, including three deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan. Mike is currently the President of The Positivity Project and CEO of The Character & Leadership Center. He graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 2002 and earned his Master's degree in Psychology & Leadership from the University of Michigan in 2011. He is the co-author of, Lead Yourself First: Inspiring Leadership Through Solitude. Mike lives in Pinehurst, NC, with his wife and four children. Connect with us on @VetLeadBlog on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook. or Subscribe, Review, and Share with the Leaders in your Communities. This Episode Brought to you by BernardBergan.com --- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/vetleadblog/support

Justin and Wills hang out with Mike Erwin, part military veteran, part nonprofit leader, part Superman.

CrossFit Coach Kenny Kane of The Positivity Project joins Armen Hammer, Eddie Ifft, and Scott McGee for a reunion show as they chat about Eddie's injuries, where Kenny's been, how the Positivity Project is going, the development of The KK Training Template, then get into the lightning round of listener questions.