In this deeply engaging episode, meet Kemi Nekvapil, an Australian transformational coach who's reshaping the definition of power. Raised in foster care, Kemi wrestled with a sense of powerlessness that only began to shift as she questioned the status quo as an adult. Now, she helps individuals in influential positions who often feel powerless within.Highlights of this episode include:💡Discovering Kemi's journey from feeling powerless to becoming a potent force of good in the world.💡Exploring her 5 principles for redefining power, built on inner strength rather than domination.💡Revealing how owning your stories and assumptions can lead you to a place of self-empowerment.💡Learning how to coexist in mutual empowerment, embracing equality and responsibility.💡Gaining insights from Kemi's new book, Power: A Woman’s Guide to Living and Leading Without ApologyJoin us as we dive deep into her transformative insights, illustrated by her compelling personal experiences. Tap into your inherent power and explore what it means to live and lead without apology. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to reclaim their power and live with purpose.You can find Kemi at: Website | InstagramIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Jadah Sellner about reimagining how you step into your life and building it around a center of love. Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED. To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discover the transformative power of the most under-researched human emotion, awe, in this enlightening episode with Dacher Keltner, renowned psychology professor and author of Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life.💡 Unearth the profound impact of awe on personal well-being and global change.💡 Understand how cultivating a sense of wonder can refresh your outlook and enhance your connection with the world.💡 Get a sneak peek into Dacher Keltner’s groundbreaking research spanning three decades, highlighting the untapped power of awe.💡 Learn about the tangible psychological and physiological benefits of awe from reduced stress to increased vitality.💡 Explore actionable ways to infuse awe into your daily routine for amplified well-being and human connection.This thought-provoking dialogue blends scientific evidence with personal experiences to redefine your understanding of emotions. It’s time to tap into the awe-inspiring power of awe.You can find Dacher at: Website | LinkedInIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Jeffrey Davis about wonder.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED. To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Join us for an eye-opening discussion with Dr. Anna Yusim, psychiatrist and author of Fulfilled: How the Science of Spirituality Can Help You Live a Happier, More Meaningful Life. We explore the intersection of science and spirituality, and how it guides us towards a richer, more fulfilling existence. Uncover the power of authenticity, interconnectedness, and intuition in shaping your life beyond the laboratory's limitations. Prepare to challenge your perspectives and redefine what a truly good life means.You can find Anna at: Website | InstagramIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Lisa Miller, Ph.D. about the awakened brain.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKEDVisit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discover the compelling link between mental health and metabolic dysfunction with Harvard psychiatrist, Dr. Chris Palmer and author of the book Brain Energy: A Revolutionary Breakthrough in Understanding Mental Health--and Improving Treatment for Anxiety, Depression, OCD, PTSD, and More.After years of treating patients, he stumbled upon a paradigm shift - a schizophrenia patient's symptoms went into remission with a ketogenic diet, pushing him toward the metabolic roots of mental health. Could mental illnesses be metabolic disorders caused by dysfunctional mitochondria in the brain? Join us to explore this revolutionary breakthrough, blending diet, lifestyle changes and metabolic interventions, and how it can redefine treatment for millions globally suffering from mental disorders.You can find Chris at: Website | InstagramIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Aviva Romm, MD about how hormones control health, and what we can do about it.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKEDVisit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by tasks, where even simple work feels impossible? You may wonder if you've lost your enthusiasm and capabilities. You could be experiencing burnout.I know burnout's crushing weight firsthand. But I've discovered unconventional ways to reclaim joy and efficacy if we experiment with fresh strategies.In this episode, we'll explore techniques to reawaken that spirit within you that burnout has dimmed. We'll uncover how to reignite your joy, once you let go of burnout's grip. It starts by cultivating the courage to push past what's not working and reclaim your spark.Discover the Work That Makes You Come Alive | Take the AssessmentYou can find the 1-page worksheet HERE.If you LOVED this episode:Be sure to check out our entire Summer Series, which you can find easily organized as a Spotify playlist as they are released each week.7 Days to Unlock Your Best Sleep | Dr. Aric PratherNedra Glover Tawwab | Better Boundaries, Better LifeTerri Cole | Let’s Talk About BoundariesCheck out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKEDVisit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Esteemed therapist Dr. Joy Harden Bradford, in her new book Sisterhood Heals: The Transformative Power of Healing in Community, emphasizes the healing power of community to combat feelings of isolation. She discusses creating safe, vulnerable spaces and the importance of platonic relationships for genuine understanding and support. Join us as we delve into themes of loneliness, sisterhood, group dynamics, and the unexpected origins of deep connections.You can find Joy at: Website | Instagram | Therapy for Black Girls podcastIf you LOVED this episode:You’ll also love the conversations we had with Kat Vellos about making adult friendships.Check out our offerings & partners: canMy New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKEDVisit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever received criticism that left you confused and defensive, wondering what you could do better? How often have you felt personal attacks masquerading as helpful feedback? These experiences are all too common, leaving us questioning our self-worth and abilities.Today's episode explores how we can navigate criticism in a way that fosters growth instead of damage. Listen as we explore the psychological effects of criticism, debunk the myths surrounding it, and share strategies to make it a catalyst for positive change within your life and work.You can find the 1-page worksheet HERE.If you LOVED this episode:Be sure to check out our entire Summer Series, which you can find easily organized as a Spotify playlist as they are released each week.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKEDVisit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Recent years have impacted our mental and physical health significantly. We are constantly faced with unsettling moments that leave a lasting impact, often unnoticed but affecting us all. The question is, how do we address this? My guest this week is renowned trauma researcher, psychiatrist, and author, Bessel van der Kolk, known for his New York Times bestseller, The Body Keeps the Score. In 1984, Bessel established one of the first centers in the US for traumatic stress research and treatment, pioneering the study of trauma's effects on the brain. His work gave rise to the Trauma Research Foundation, created new treatment models, studied neurofeedback and MDMA's effects, and facilitated numerous trainings across the nation.You can find Bessel at: Website | InstagramIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Ellen Hendrickson about social anxiety.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED. To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We all have those moments, maybe even days, months, years, some of us, maybe even decades of our lives where our minds just won't stop racing. We get caught up in this whirlwind of thoughts and anxieties, wary stories, just rehashing the past, forecasting the future, and all too often imagining these worst-case stories or scenarios and we just can't let them go.Yes, we are talking about overthinking, and today we are going to unravel this interesting, complicated, sometimes messy mental pattern and share with you a set of science-back strategies, a sort of an overthinking ultimate toolkit to help you stop overthinking and start taking action to become more present in your life. More focused on what matters, more engaged with those around you because you are not spinning those things in your head and just perpetuate, overthinking.And you may be surprised at just how much control you do have over this process and how powerful and fairly quick to implement some of the tools we'll share are. So that is where we're headed today in this second installment of our Good Life summer series where every Monday we take on a single topic that is critical to a life well lived, to dive into ideas, the issues, the practical impact, science, art, and then explore strategies, tips, and tools to navigate these experiences with more grace and ease.You can find the 1-page worksheet HERE.If you LOVED this episode:Be sure to check out our entire Summer Series, which you can find easily organized as a Spotify playlist as they are released each week.You’ll also love the conversations we had with Dr. Aric Prather about transforming your sleep in just seven days.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKEDVisit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What turns an insult into inspiration? How can you transform struggle into meaning and purpose? Today we'll discover how one man did just that through what was, for him, and the many doubters around him, a very unlikely path.Martinus Evans had a tough childhood on the east side of Detroit. Football gave him hope, but an injury steered him towards a sedentary lifestyle. A harsh doctor's comment inspired him to embark on a transformative journey, one that would shockingly turn him from an overweight patient to a passionate runner. Defying stereotypes, he finished his first marathon and started the "Slow AF" movement after being mocked during a race. This brand fostered a worldwide community - the Slow AF Run Club. Now an international marathoner, he has collaborated with leading fitness brands like Adidas, Nike, and Oakley, and appeared on the cover of Runner's World magazine. His journey is encapsulated in his new book, Slow AF Run Club: The Ultimate Guide for Anyone Who Wants to Run. For Martinus, running has become intertwined with his purpose, identity, and sense of meaning - transforming struggle into something that helps feed his family, travel the world, and overcome hardship.You can find Martinus at: Website | InstagramTW: thoughts & mentions of suicideIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with artist Lisa Congdon about her thinking that she just wasn't made for a particular pursuit, but then stepping into it and realizing it was not only her passion but would end up being her purpose and profession. Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKEDVisit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We've all experienced that magical feeling of something we've longed for becoming real - a creative project finally coming together, a new relationship blossoming, achieving a health goal we never thought possible.But have you ever wondered how those seemingly "impossible" things actually happen? What mix of vision, persistence, luck and effort makes dreams into realities?In this illuminating exploration, we aim at one of today's most controversial and widely discussed phenomena: manifestation and the law of attraction. You'll learn surprising historical roots that stretch back centuries across cultures. You'll discover real psychological and physiological mechanisms that play a crucial role - and what actual research says about goal achievement and motivation.New possibilities emerge when we understand ourselves and the world more deeply. And through this wide-ranging yet practical discussion, you just may find a new way of thinking about - and actually making - the impossible possible in your own life.You'll walk away with a modern, science-backed approach to visualization, goal-setting and psychological strategies that can truly transform your ability to pursue and achieve big dreams. Whether you're skeptical of "mumbo jumbo" concepts like manifestation or a firm believer in its power, you'll gain insights and tools to push past what once seemed impossible into powerful and purposeful action.So join me as we uncover the stories, secrets and science behind how "impossible" dreams actually become our realities - through mixing vision and grit, determination and grace, science and spirit. Let's embark on a journey into the fascinating yet practical stories of how humans make the impossible possible.If you LOVED this episode be sure to check out our entire Summer Series, which you can find easily organized as a Spotify playlist as they are released each week.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKEDVisit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sex and relationship expert Vanessa Marin discusses the taboo nature of discussing sex and how it can lead to unmet needs and dissatisfaction in relationships. Her new book, Sex Talks: The Five Conversations That Will Transform Your Love Life, provides practical exercises and dialogue prompts to improve communication around intimacy, breaking down shame and stigma. Through open discussions on touchy subjects and setting rituals for intimacy, Marin believes couples can foster deeper connection, igniting intimacy and enhancing their love lives.Many people struggle to openly discuss sex due to shame and stigma.Open communication about sex and intimacy is important for a healthy relationship.Vanessa recommends five core conversations: acknowledgment, connection, desire, pleasure, and exploration.She provides practical methods to make these conversations easier.Rituals like makeout routines can create intimacy Understanding one's desires, boundaries, and pleasures enables satisfying communication.Giving positive feedback during sex helps partners figure out each other's pleasures.Scheduling sex demonstrates priorities but reframing as "planning" can help.You can find Vanessa at: Website | InstagramIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Eli Finkel about the self-actualized marriage.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKEDVisit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We want to hear from YOU! Take our survey.Conflicts are inevitable in long-term relationships. But often we argue in ways that push our partners away instead of resolving issues.Dr. Stan Tatkin, a marriage and family therapist who has spent decades working with couples and training practitioners to improve communication in relationships believes there is a better way for partners to weather conflicts and emerge closer. His new book, In Each Other’s Care: A Guide to the Most Common Relationship Conflicts and How to Work Through Them offers strategies grounded in neurobiology and years of clinical experience.When disagreements arise, primal instincts trigger 'fight or flight', making us defend ourselves instead of understanding each other. But with awareness and new strategies, partners can shift this dynamic. As Stan says, we can learn to "work problems, not each other", regulate emotions, consider interests equally, and prioritize the relationship.We'll discuss Dr. Tatkin's approach for navigating conflicts productively. His insights may save your next argument and reveal how you can grow closer through challenges together.You can find Stan at: Website | InstagramIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Julie and John Gottman about deepening long-term relationships.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED. To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We want to hear from YOU! Take our survey.Ever wish you had the courage to try something entirely new? To create something that didn’t exist before? Even if you’re already successful at your career, and you enjoy much of it? Sometimes we just feel this call to try on something new. That’s one of the big ideas we dive into with award-winning journalist and podcaster Manoush Zomorodi. • Manoush had success at NPR but later started her own company and podcast, showing it's never too late to try something new.• Manoush recommends side passions or "garden plots" that let you experiment freely, fueling your main work with energy and excitement.• We discuss the rapid impact of technology on identity, creativity and relationships, and how to harness change instead of just surviving it.• Manoush believes in laughing at life's absurdity, being proud of getting older, and taking action instead of waiting on others to live a good life.• The conversation covers big ideas, passions and perspectives on living well from Manoush's viewpoint as an award-winning journalist.Join us as we dive into big ideas, passions and living well with award-winning journalist Manoush Zomorodi.You can find Manoush at: Website | ZigZag PodcastIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Kevin Kelly about excellent advice for living.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED. To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We want to hear from YOU! Take our survey.Beyond money, what truly matters is meaning and purpose - feeling like your work and life make a difference. Studies show significance is key to satisfaction.Yet workplaces often keep us from these feelings. Seth Godin explores how to transform work into a source of fulfillment and purpose.Seth has inspired many through his insights on work culture, leadership and spreading ideas. His latest book, The Song of Significance serves as a manifesto for creating a more human-centric workplace.We discuss:Embracing change as the new normalReimagining the workplace to enroll, empower and trust everyoneHow the past few years have trained us to embrace changeThe importance of taking responsibility for meaningful workRediscovering the value of human connection at workThis is a must-listen for anyone seeking a more purpose-driven approach to work. Seth's book can help transform workplaces and create an environment where everyone can do their best work.You can find Seth at: Website | InstagramIf you LOVED this episode:You’ll also love my January episode, featuring the Sparketypes and how to better align your work with who you are, in order to experience more meaning, purpose, and possibility.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKEDVisit Our Sponsor Page For a Complete List of Vanity URLs & Discount Codes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We want to hear from YOU! Take our survey.Have you ever felt stuck in any part of your life? Trapped in a soul-sucking job, an unfulfilling relationship, a health, fitness or performance plateau, or a creative rut? What if there was a way to tap scientifically-validated principles to get unstuck, break free from the invisible forces holding you back and unleash your full potential? What if you could literally engineer breakthroughs? Turns out, you can.Adam Alter joins us to discuss his new book Anatomy of a Breakthrough: How to Get Unstuck When It Matters Most, which explores the often unavoidable experience of feeling stuck - whether it's a relationship, career, or health issue - and what we can do to turn stuckness into breakthrough. Adam shares strategies and mindset shifts to get unstuck and how simplifying and experimenting can ultimately help us make progress.Stuckness is an inevitable part of the human experience, especially for long-term goals that have a lull period in the middle. We become fixated on the end goal and overlook the journey.When stuck, people feel anxious, confused, isolated, and like their struggles are unique even though stuckness is universal. It leads to a flailing response that doesn't help.The first step is managing emotions by taking down the pressure and slowing down. Only then can you start to think strategically about how to move forward.Hitting plateaus is natural due to the plateau effect - constant methods become less effective over time. Anticipating plateaus and chunking large goals into smaller ones helps navigate through them.Failure is also inevitable but we have different cultural baggage around failure depending on the domain. The key is to reframe failure as learning rather than a stain on your character.Conducting a "friction audit" - identifying and removing obstacles - can reduce stuckness, especially if done periodically.Simplicity trumps complexity when stuck - focus on the 1-2 most important factors that will make the biggest difference now.Experimentation, exploration, and luck also play a role in breakthroughs. Being more exploratory increases serendipity.Surrounding yourself with different types of people, including those who challenge you, can enrich your life.You can find Adam at: Website | TwitterIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love my January episode on the power of success scaffolding to achieve incredible visions.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKEDVisit Our Sponsor Page For a Complete List of Vanity URLs & Discount Codes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We want to hear from YOU! Take our survey.Born in 1989 Ukraine with extensive physical challenges, missing bones and parts of limbs, muscle,s and organ tissue due to in-utero radiation poisoning from the Chernobyl nuclear disaster, Oksana Masters was left to fend for herself in an orphanage. The world was stacked against her, and the conditions in the three orphanages she endured were, as she described, truly brutal. But, she refused to give up.Then, at age 7, she’d find herself adopted by a single, American mom, whose own years-long journey to bring Oksana home is its own astonishing story. The simple fact that she survived is remarkable. But, she didn’t just survive, once in her home, enduring multiple additional surgeries and amputations, her indomitable spirit refused to let anyone tell her what she could or could not do. And, nearly a decade later, she’d end up stunning not just her mom, and the local community, but the entire world, becoming the United States' most decorated winter Paralympic or Olympic athlete, taking home seventeen medals in four different sports. She has since been featured everywhere from Sports Illustrated to The New York Times and has written a powerful memoir, The Hard Parts: A Memoir of Courage and Triumph, that recounts her astonishing journey from the shadow of Chernobyl to the world's biggest stages. In today’s deeply moving and inspiring conversation, you'll discover:How an unwavering spirit can conquer the most daunting physical challenges.The power of love, support, and perseverance in overcoming trauma and adversity.The importance of embracing your unique differences and using them to your advantage.What it takes to excel in not just one, but four different sports on the world stage.The life-changing impact of a single decision to never give up.And so much more.Join us as we explore the extraordinary life of Oksana Masters, and learn how she turned her greatest challenges into her most exceptional victories. How she became unstoppable, and showed the world what was possible. You can find Oksana at: Website | InstagramIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Kyle Bryant about how to transform challenges into action.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED. To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We want to hear from YOU! Take our survey.What if you could transform your sleep in just seven days? What if the key to unlocking your best rest lies within a simple yet powerful prescription, tailored by one of the world's leading sleep experts? What if sleep didn’t have to be something you struggle with and, instead, could become a powerful and friendly ally? Well, that’s exactly where we’re heading into today’s conversation as we open your eyes to the wonders of sleep and help you finally experience the restorative snooze time you've been craving.My guest today is Dr. Aric Prather, a Professor of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at the University of California, San Francisco. In his new book, The Sleep Prescription: Seven Days to Unlocking Your Best Rest, Aric shares the powerful solutions he uses to help patients at his clinic achieve healing and restorative sleep. In this conversation, you'll discover things like:How your internal clock plays a crucial role in your sleep qualityThe importance of sleep transition and the activities that can help you wind down effectivelyThe surprising impact of blue light exposure on melatonin production, and the myths around itWhy it's essential to create a "shrine to sleep" and the consequences of not doing soHow to retrain your brain for better sleep through innovative techniquesWhy you might want to focus more on wake times than bedtimesAnd so much more.Don't miss this opportunity to gain insight into the mysteries of sleep and unlock the keys to your best rest. Join us as we explore the groundbreaking work of Dr. Aric Prather and learn how you can transform your sleep in just seven days.You can find Aric at: Website | TwitterIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Light Watkins about finding calm wherever you are.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKEDVisit Our Sponsor Page For a Complete List of Vanity URLs & Discount Codes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We want to hear from YOU! Take our survey.These last few years have tested our boundaries on nearly every level. Work, friendship, family, community, geography, politics, religion, social issues, love, and well-being. It’s like we’re being asked to draw lines, all day, every day. Question is, how? How do you create and uphold boundaries that are clear, healthy, and constructive, while also acknowledging the nuance, kindness, and understanding this moment demands? Well, my guest today, Nedra Glover Tawwab, can help. A licensed therapist and sought-after relationship expert, she has practiced relationship therapy for 12 years and is the founder and owner of the group therapy practice, Kaleidoscope Counseling. Every day she helps people create healthy relationships by teaching them how to implement boundaries. Her philosophy is that a lack of boundaries and assertiveness underlie most relationship issues, and her gift is helping people create healthy relationships with themselves and others. Nedra is also the author of the New York Times Bestselling book, Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself, and The Set Boundaries Workbook: Practical Exercises for Understanding Your Needs and Setting Healthy Limits.You can find Nedra at: Website | InstagramIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Terri Cole, who brings a beautifully complementary lens to the critical exploration of boundaries.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKEDVisit Our Sponsor Page For a Complete List of Vanity URLs & Discount Codes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We want to hear from YOU! Take our survey.Could Your Smartphone Be Destroying Your Focus? Have our attention spans, will power, mood and productivity just become hopelessly derailed for life? Answer is, it depends. What we do about our rapidly-diminishing attention and its effect on our work, lives, health, and relationships is mission-critical. In today's world, we're constantly bombarded by digital distractions. From emails and social media notifications to the constant buzzing of our smartphones, our attention spans are dwindling to an average of 46 seconds on a screen, before our attention flitters off to something or someone else. But what if the key to regaining control over your focus lies not only in your own habits but also in the way you interact with your devices? Our guest today is Gloria Mark whose new book, Attention Span: A Groundbreaking Way to Restore Balance, Happiness and Productivity reveals surprising results from her decades of research into how technology affects our attention and how we can take control, not only to find more success in our careers, but also to find health and wellness in our everyday lives.In this intriguing conversation, you'll discover:The alarming effect of digital multitasking on our ability to focus and the implications for our mental health.The power of mindfulness practices in helping to combat digital distractions and build a stronger attention muscle.How the "future self" concept can be utilized to motivate ourselves to stay on task and resist the temptation of digital distractions.Simple yet effective environmental changes, such as turning off notifications, can make a significant difference in our ability to concentrate.The importance of deep, meaningful connections with others in living a fulfilling and creative life.You can find Gloria at: Website | LinkedInIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Johann Hari on how to reclaim focus.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED. To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We want to hear from YOU! Take our survey.You’ve heard about it everywhere, but what does AI have to do, if anything, with living a good life? With how you live and work and play? With the choices you get to make, and the choices that might be taken from you? With the ability to do more of what you love and less of everything else? And, beyond AI, what are some of the big levers to live by? The simple bits of wisdom that actually have a giant impact on everything from work to play, love to health and beyond? These are just some of the big questions and ideas I’m exploring with none other than truly visionary thinker, Kevin Kelly. Kevin has played a pivotal role in shaping the discourse around technology and its potential impact on society for decades. His latest book, Excellent Advice for Living: Wisdom I Wish I'd Known Earlier is an ideal companion for anyone seeking to navigate life with grace and creativity.In today's episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of emergent technologies, with a focus on AI, and get to some both exciting and unsettling, but important truths (or at least guesses), unearthing some the most groundbreaking ideas and insights that promise to redefine the very fabric of our existence. And we also dive into some of the fun, surprising and wise and, in his words, excellent bits of advice for living. You can find Kevin at: Website | InstagramIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Parker Palmer about what really matters in life.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED.Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We want to hear from YOU! Take our survey.Have you ever wondered why some people seem to have a magical way with words, effortlessly connecting with others, inspiring change, being able to share ideas in a way that seems to bypass defenses, be wildly persuasive and lead to action and impact? What IS it that lets them do it? In today's fund and surprising conversation with Jonah Berger, we delve into the fascinating world of language, persuasion, and ethics, and reveal the secrets to harnessing the power of what my guest calls “magic words” in your everyday life.Jonah is a world-renowned expert on natural language processing, change, word of mouth, influence, consumer behavior, and why things catch on. His latest book, Magic Words: What to Say to Get Your Way, provides a powerful toolkit and actionable techniques around the science of language and how you can use it to change minds, engage audiences, and drive action.In today’s conversation, we explore the incredible ways in which language can impact our lives, relationships, and influence, including:The concept of "linguistic chameleons" and how adjusting your language can create stronger connections with others.The power of emotional language to hold attention, evoke curiosity and inspire action.How sharing vulnerabilities and failures can foster a sense of camaraderie, empowering others to persist in their endeavors.The importance of understanding similarities and differences in language, and the potential to drive creativity and cultural shifts.You can find Jonah at: Website | TwitterIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Zoe Chance about ethical persuasion.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED. To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We want to hear from YOU! Take our survey.Ever notice how, increasingly, spirituality, and especially, religion, have become these loaded terms? Let alone concepts. But, does that have to be the case? What might a new lens or approach on spirituality and faith look like? One steeped in openness, kindness, inclusivity, service, compassion and beyond? That is where we’re headed today in this deep and nuanced conversation with my guest, Rainn Wilson. Now, before you even ask, you may be wondering, “Isn’t he the three-time Emmy-nominated actor who portrayed Dwight Schrute on NBC's The Office?” And, the answer would be yes. But what you may not know is that Rainn has been traveling, examining, and deeply studying both his own Baha'i tradition, as well as nearly every other religious and spiritual tradition for more than 50 years. He is no stranger to deep, meaningful conversations. His latest book, Soul Boom: Why We Need a Spiritual Revolution explores the harmony between personal transformation service and the future of religion and spirituality. And, that’s exactly where he headed in today’s deep, rich, wise, and kind conversation.You can find Rainn at: Instagram | TwitterIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Matthew McConaughey about the pursuit of meaning, joy and expression in life.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED. To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever wondered what sets successful people apart, and how they stay motivated to achieve their goals? What if you could discover the secrets to maximizing your own motivation and achieving the success you desire? In today's podcast, we delve into the surprising science of motivation and accomplishment, uncovering powerful strategies to help you conquer challenges and propel yourself toward your dreams with my guest, Emily Balcetis.Emily is an Associate Professor of Psychology and the director of the New York University Social Perception Action and Motivation research lab. Described as a pioneer in the scientific investigation of behavioral science and motivation, she leads an international team of scholars, writers, artists, and advocates. Her research has uncovered previously unknown strategies that increase, sustain, and direct people's efforts to meet their goals. As a TED speaker and author of Clearer, Closer, Better: How Successful People See the World, she has become one of the most sought-after voices on motivation science in the world.During this conversation, you'll learn:How our perception of the world shapes our motivation and, in turn, our success.The surprising strategies successful people use to sustain and direct their efforts.The role of self-compassion in overcoming setbacks and maintaining motivation.How to unlock your own inner resources to achieve your personal and professional goals.You can find Emily at: Psychology Today | LinkedInIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Lewis Howes about the mindset that propels greatness.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED. To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I’m fascinated by the idea of snap decisions, how some can lead to amazing outcomes, and others can destroy lives. What you so often find is that nothing actually happens in a moment, there is no real snap, but rather a series of experiences leading up to it, often years in the making, were as much authors of the moment as the instance itself. And, sometimes, when those moments lead to something you’ll regret for a lifetime, you get to the next question - what is recoverable - redeemable - how do you make that happen, and who gets to write the story of your reclamation? This is the powerful thru line of my conversation with Shaka Senghor, New York Times bestselling author of Writing My Wrongs: Life, Death, and Redemption in an American Prison. He took another young man’s life at the age of 19, served the next two decades in prison, 7 in solitary, and through a series of awakenings, began to unwind the pieces of his life and begin the process of understanding, reassembling and eventually redemption. His latest book, Letters to the Sons of Society: A Father's Invitation to Love, Honesty, and Freedom invites men everywhere on a journey of honesty and healing through this book of moving letters to his sons. So excited to share this 'Best of' conversation with you today.You can find Shaka at: Website | InstagramIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Father Greg Boyle and Fabian Debora about the power of redemption and expression.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED. To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if there was a secret pathway that could dramatically expand the level of joy, creativity, pleasure, and connection you experienced in life, no matter what was happening? Turns out, there is, and that path takes us through the land of our five senses, but in ways you never thought about or imagined. In today's captivating conversation with my dear friend, Gretchen Rubin, one of today’s most influential observers of happiness and human nature, we dive into the untapped potential of the 5 senses to dramatically enhance our lives. Gretchen reveals how engaging with our senses in novel, playful ways can bring us moments of joy, even during difficult times. You'll discover the essential role our senses play in connecting with ourselves and the world around us. We explore how tuning into these powerful tools can foster stronger relationships, increase creativity, pleasure and joy, and lead to more mindful, satisfying experiences, all based on her new book, Life in Five Senses: How Exploring the Senses Got Me Out of My Head and Into the World.You'll learn:The concept of a "Five Senses Journal" to heighten your self-awareness and unlock personal insights.How tapping into your senses can foster stronger relationships, resolve conflicts, and boost empathy.The transformative power of sensory experiences in stimulating creativity, productivity, and mental well-being.How to harness your senses for meditation, relaxation, or simply having fun in your everyday life.The vital role our senses play in creating meaningful memories and fostering a greater sense of well-being.Join us as we uncover the hidden power of our senses, and embark on a sensory journey that will inspire you to live a more fulfilled and joyous life.You can find Gretchen at: Website | Instagram | Happier with Gretchen Rubin - PodcastIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Gretchen about The Four Tendencies or how we meet our own expectations.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED. To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever felt like you’ve got so much more potential inside you, but you have no idea how to unlock it and share it with the world? If so, you’re not alone. And it’s a question that today’s guest, rocket scientist turned award-winning professor and bestselling author, Ozan Varol, takes us into. How can we unleash our hidden genius, that magical set of capabilities that lies within every person? And, how do we even know what our is, let alone how to release it into the world?In this thought-provoking podcast, we'll dive into the art of embracing curiosity, letting go of our past and future, and stepping into the unknown. His newest book, Awaken Your Genius, explores how to identify and share the magic that lies within all of us.We explore:How the power of curiosity can lead to groundbreaking discoveries and help you overcome fear.The importance of looking where others don't to find unique perspectives and uncover hidden gems.The role of repetition in creating false confidence and the value of exploring different sources of information.The remarkable story of Jimmy Breslin, a journalist who found success by stepping away from the norm.How Ozan experimented with potential futures before finding his true calling and the importance of approaching life with the mindset of a curious scientist.You can find Ozan at: Website | Purchase the Book & Get a Special Free BonusIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Ozan three years ago about how to think like a rocket scientist to solve big problems.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED. To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever felt like the only one in the room? That uneasy feeling of being different, isolated, or misunderstood, having to perform to a norm that is entirely misaligned with who you are can be jarring. But what if those moments of feeling out of place are actually the key to unlocking a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us? Welcome to a groundbreaking episode where we dive deep into the unseen divide with our guest, Laura Cathcart Robbins.Laura Cathcart Robbins is an accomplished author, freelance writer, speaker, and host of the popular podcast The Only One in the Room. Her new memoir, Stash: My Life in Hiding is about the journey to sobriety and self-love amidst addiction, privilege, racism, and self-sabotage. In this episode, we dive into:The powerful role of vulnerability, honesty, and openness in fostering genuine connections, breaking down barriers, and coming home to yourself.How so many of us try to cope with stress, overwhelm, or differences by turning to unhealthy behaviors, even addiction, and how these need not be lifelong conditions.How comparing your suffering to others often only piles on, rather than eases the pain.An unusual take on redefining and rebuilding relationships after life-altering events, like divorce, addiction, and recovery.The importance of including diverse voices in educational and communal spaces and beyond.You can find Laura at: Website | Instagram | The Only One In The Room PodcastIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Rich Roll about his journey through addiction and awakening.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED. To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The science is crystal clear, deep, genuine, healthy and enduring relationships are at the center of a well-lived life. But, so often, it’s the long-term intimate partnerships that we take most for granted or give least attentiveness to. Just assuming they’ll keep on keeping on. Until they don’t. So how DO you keep your relationship with someone you hope to be a life partner not just alive, but truly rich and flourishing and nourishing and joyful? Especially over a period of years or, if you’re fortunate enough, decades? What’s the secret to maintaining passion and connection throughout the years?That’s where we’re headed in this eye-opening conversation with professor Eli Finkel, as we dive deep into the world of romantic relationships. Eli is the author of the bestselling book The All-Or-Nothing Marriage: How the Best Marriages Work.You'll discover:The surprising impact of engaging in exciting, out-of-the-ordinary activities on relationship satisfaction and passion.How to distinguish between activities that foster closeness and those that reignite desire.The unexpected benefits of breaking out of routines and embracing new challenges together.And, lots more. During our conversation, we delve into the intricacies of maintaining passion in long-term relationships, discussing the importance of novelty, and exploring the potential benefits of breaking out of routines in the aftermath of the pandemic. Eli shares valuable insights on how couples can be deliberate about rebooting their relationships and resetting priorities, all while creating meaningful connections and lasting memories.You can find Eli at: Website | TwitterIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Julie and John Gottman about love and marriage.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of our core values and beliefs here at Good Life Project is that every human being, regardless of how they identify, love, practice, or live is endowed with dignity and worth, and is entitled to be treated through this lens. We also believe that every person can learn from any person, especially those who they perceive as being different from them. It’s a big part of the reason we’re always seeking to share a rich tapestry of voices on the podcast. The moment we close ourselves off to those we perceive as other, whether from fear, lack of knowledge or lived experience, we close ourselves off to a part of ourselves and of life that could have made our days so much richer. And, we shrink our worlds and lives along the way.So, as we head into this year’s Trans Day of Visibility, we wanted to share a selection of moments, ideas and awakening from a few deeply-moving conversations we’ve had over the years with some incredible, big-hearted, and wise humans who also happen to identify as transgender, and have chosen to make it their life’s work to step into conversation with others to share their experience. Not just of being transgender, but also of moving through a world that often misunderstands, labels, and ostracizes on a level that leads to injustice, rising at times to violence and suffering. These conversations aren’t just about transgender life, though, they’re about life, the way we choose to relate to each other, hear and see each other, acknowledge our shared humanity, and choose to either expand our horizons and our lives, or contract both. So excited to share this Best Of episode featuring Imara Jones and Trystan Reese. You can find Imara Jones at: Website | Instagram | TransLash Podcast | Listen to Our Full-Length Convo with ImaraYou can find Trystan Reese at: Website | Instagram | Listen to Our Full-Length Convo with TrystanCheck out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED. To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We live in a world of near-constant distraction, making it harder and harder to focus, to be present and attentive in the activities, goals, pursuit and even relationships that mean the most to us. And, so often, the solution offered to reclaim focus are the same old tired things we hear, over and over again.So, today, in the next installment of our Life-changing Habits series, we’re exploring 7 unconventional, more secret-weapon-level, science-backed habits that can help you stay focused, be less distracted, and truly be present in the moment. These unconventional but incredibly powerful habits can transform the way you interact with the world and the people that really matter. And, pretty safe bet you either haven’t heard of them or tried them, or if you have, you never had them teed up in the context of improving focus, along with specific direction, and the science behind how and why they work. So excited to share these 5 life-changing focus-building habits with you. Submit a voice memo of your 5 Good Life Habits.If you LOVED this episode, you’ll also love the other episodes in this series:5 Life-Changing Habits5 Life-Changing Relationship Habits5 Life-Changing Holiday Survival Habits Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED. To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever felt like you're living a life that isn't truly yours? Maybe you long to uncover the most authentic version of yourself, the one that’s laid hidden beneath layers of expectations and societal norms? Or, maybe you ever feel trapped in a never-ending cycle of change and growth without ever really getting where you want to be or feeling the way you want to feel. What if I told you that there's a process to the feeling of emergence, a journey to be embraced? And that it was steeped not in rigidity or force, but in poetry and grace.In today’s conversation, interwoven with live, spoken word performances, poet, spoken word phenom, author, actor, and artist, Arielle Estoria, guides us through a journey she calls The Unfolding, which is also the title of her new book - a beautiful collection of poems, essays, and meditations that guide us through this transformative process.She shares her personal experiences of pain and growth, and reveals how we can all learn to embrace a process of Unfolding, of coming home to ourselves, in our own lives. And, along the way, she also recites some beautiful, deeply-evocative poems that I know you won’t want to miss.You can find Arielle at: Website | InstagramIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Cleo Wade about life, love and expression.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED. To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if there was a game-changing relationship practice or tool or strategy that was capable of not only transforming your personal relationships, even the really tense one, but also your relationship with yourself, and even with the way to respond to others, even complete strangers, and embrace shaping the world to be a better place? Turns out, there just might be. And, this is where we’re headed today with my guest, Rick Hanson. As a psychologist, best-selling author, and expert on positive neuroplasticity, Rick has lectured at some of the world's top institutions and is here to share his insights on how to warm your heart, see the person behind the eyes, and ultimately shape the world to be a better place.TW: brief mention of suicidal thoughtsYou can find Rick at: Website | InstagramIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Tara Brach about the practice of compassion and acceptance.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED. To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

My first exposure to Anne Lamott’s work was her iconic book, Bird By Bird, which as a writer, was transformative. Not just because it helped me better understand how and why to write, but also because her wonderfully wise and irreverent voice inspired me to be more real, more honest in both my work and my life. I’ve remained captivated by her writing ever since. The author of too many The New York Times bestsellers, including Almost Everything; Hallelujah Anyway; Small Victories; Stitches; Help, Thanks, Wow; and her most recent Dusk Night Dawn, Anne goes places other fear to tread with such humility, humor and craft, it’s like you’ve been invited into her mind, her life and her ability to draw belly laughs, deep wisdom and hits of awakening from those often tiny moments that touch down in our lives that so many of us miss. She reminds you, it may not be fun while it’s happening, but it’s all part of the beautiful souffle of life and every ingredient matters. So excited to share this best-of conversation with you now.You can find Anne at: Website | InstagramIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Glennon Doyle about living more authentically and untamed.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED. To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So, you think you’re making good decisions, but are you really? And, what about the hidden scripts and noisy inputs that affect nearly every decision you make, without you being aware of any of it? How do we make better decisions?Today's guest can help. Daniel Kahneman is one of the most influential psychologists and thinkers in modern history, his ideas have literally changed the way we live, work, relate, see the world, make decisions, and build solutions, organizations, industries, societies, and lives. Best known for his remarkable work with Amos Tversky, which explores how we reason and make decisions, his research was, in no small way, seminal in the creation of the field of behavioral economics. He’s been awarded the Nobel Prize, as well as the Presidential Medal of Freedom. His New York Times best-selling book, Thinking, Fast and Slow, has sold more than seven million copies worldwide. And his most recent book, Noise: A Flaw in Human Judgment, explores how unrecognized, systemic influences affect our decisions in ways, both rational and not, that remain completely hidden to us and often lead to profound unfairness and inequality. We talk about key ideas from his research spanning more than 6 decades. But, we also dive deep into the life experiences that shaped him. Fascinatingly, Kahmeman’s curiosity about humans and all our complexities was sparked as a young Jew living with his family in Nazi-occupied France during World War II, and running for years, before fleeing. His sometimes harrowing experiences triggered questions and curiosities that powerfully influenced what would become a lifelong devotion to understand why we do the things we do.We explore those early experiences, and he shares where some of the seeds were first planted that would later grow into the body of research and work that have changed the world. You can find Daniel at: Princeton University | The Nobel PrizeIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Charles Duhigg about how unknown influences and habit and ritual effect our behavior.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED. To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you tired of feeling like you’re powerless against your cravings, no matter how much you try to resist them? From unhealthy, yet irresistible snacks to binge-TV, we often feel helpless against the biochemical storm happening inside our bodies and brains that lure us into behaviors we know are not healthy or life-enhancing, yet, still, we keep saying yes to them. Thinking, “I’m better than this,” or trying to tap willpower isn’t enough. We need to understand what’s really happening and learn how to harness our physiology for good.Today's episode is going to change everything you thought you knew about cravings. To help guide us through this exploration, is double board-certified doctor and wellness expert specializing in food allergies, hormones and gut health, Amy Shah, MD. Building on the ideas from her new book, I’m So Effing Hungry: Why We Crave What We Crave – and What to Do About It, Amy takes us deep into the world of cravings, what they really are and are not, how they co-opt your body’s systems, and she even reveals how companies use this knowledge to manipulate our cravings and how we can take back control of our brains, and lives. So get ready to rewire your brain and discover natural ways to get that dopamine fix that will keep you motivated and focused on your goals. You can find Amy at: Website | InstagramIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Aviva Romm, MD about how to work with our hormones to live better lives.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED. To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When you hear the term “greatness,” what do you think? For most people, images of world-class athletes, innovators, performers, leaders or industry or arts come to mind. The best of the best in any field. Those who push harder than anyone and everyone else and succeed on a scale most can only dream of. But, what if that’s not actually greatness at all? What if greatness was more about how you show up in your life, and lead with service and humanity? That’s the argument that my dear friend, New York Times best-selling author, keynote speaker, industry-leading show host, and former pro-athlete, Lewis Howes, makes. "Greatness,” according to Lewis, “is about service to other people in the pursuit of your dreams, making sure that everyone else wins around you while you're winning and empowering people around you while you grow and succeed."He believes that success alone will not bring joy, but we must also fulfill our inner peace, free ourselves emotionally and mentally, and have clarity on what direction we want to go in. Only then can we live our highest version of ourselves and be the best version of ourselves. Many of these ideas are detailed in his new book, The Greatness Mindset: Unlock the Power of Your Mind and Live Your Best Life Today. We dive into key elements in a powerful and revealing way in today’s conversation.You can find Lewis at: Website | The School of Greatness podcast | The Daily Motivation podcastIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Chase Jarvis about reimagining success.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever had a moment or experience, maybe even an entire season of life that was so hard, so filled with struggle and, maybe even, grief, loss and uncertainty, that the very idea of feeling or accessing any kind of big or meaningful or sustained happiness or joy just completely left you? Yeah, we’ve all been there on some level. But, what if, even in those moments where the big happy, or the big joy just isn’t accessible, there was still a way to dip into fleeting moments of lightness, or what my dear friend and guest today, Cyndie Spiegel, calls microjoys? One that gives you just enough of a glimmer of hope and connection, ease and maybe even laughter, that it keeps you going long enough to begin to emerge back into a state of more sustained spaciousness and possibility?Cyndie is a beloved storyteller-turned-writer and an igniter of power conversation whose new book, Microjoys: Finding Hope (Especially) When Life Is Not Okay, is a revelation. She first began holding on to what she calls microjoys during a devastating season that saw her mom pass from cancer, her nephew murdered, her brother struggling to recover from a stroke, and her own diagnosis of cancer, all while navigating a global pandemic. That’s what we’re diving into today, both the notion of microjoys, along with myriad ways to access these moments and experiences. You can find Cyndie at: Website | Dear Grown Ass Women | InstagramIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Ocean Vuong about navigating struggle and making peace with his story.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED. To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever felt overwhelmed or helpless in the face of anxiety? Like the more you try to manage it, the more out of control it becomes? Maybe it’s in social situations where you’re surrounded by new people or work situations where it’s so easy to start spinning about everything from how you’ll be perceived to what happens if you stumble. Or, maybe it's just about the state of your life, relationships, family, community, or even the world. If that’s you, you're not alone. But, what if anxiety was actually just a particular type of energy that could be transformed into something akin to a superpower? This is the bold idea offered by my guest today, Professor Wendy Suzuki. Her latest book, Good Anxiety: Harnessing the Power of the Most Misunderstood Emotion, explores how to use anxiety as a superpower. Wendy is passionate about helping people understand the phenomenon of anxiety and how to reframe it in order to lead a more fulfilling life and offers science-based strategies to help us turn the volume down on our anxiety responses. You can find Dr. Wendy at: Website | InstagramIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Jud Brewer about unwinding anxiety.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED: To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How many times have you said yes to something, started it, gotten halfway through, then either been distracted, run out of time, energy, money, ideas, motivation, or all the above? And, just kind of walk away, leaving something that could’ve been amazing unfinished? Never getting the chance to back in the I DID THAT glow of accomplishment and tell everyone around you, “hey, I DID that!” And, yes, I’m raising my hand here.And, what about being able to do what’s important without it also taking over your life, and leaving you living reactively? Wouldn’t it be cool if there were ways, strategies, tools, processes and technology that could dramatically reduce the amount of time it takes to get things done, so you could have so much more free time to do all the other stuff you love to do? Including absolutely nothing at all? These are the questions we’re diving into in today’s special spotlight conversation featuring conversations with Start Finishing author, Charlie Gilkey, and Free Time author, Jenny Blake. How do I not only choose and start but also finish what really matters? And, while you’re at it, how can I reimagine the way I work to create a ton more free time to do anything that lights me up? You can find Charlie Gilkey at: Website | Instagram | Listen to Our Full-Length Convo with CharlieYou can find Jenny Blake at: Website | Free Time Podcast | Listen to Our Full-Length Convo with JennyIf you LOVED this episode you'll love the conversation we had with Chip Conley about reimagining what you center in your life.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED: We’re looking for special guest “wisdom-seekers” to share the moment you’re in, then pose questions to Jonathan and the Sparked Braintrust to be answered, “on air.” To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Cole Arthur Riley grew up in a house full of loud, funny, and loving personalities, but as a kid, she kept her voice from others, barely speaking at all until she was 7 years old. Still, her dad kept finding ways to, as she described, bribe her to share her voice and nurture her creative impulse, often in writing, from poems to stories and beyond. Over time, as her expressive and creative voice took shape, her lens on spirituality also yearned for a more expansive expression, she began to bring all parts of her life together - the creative impulse, life experience, sense of identity and fairness and spiritual inclination - to write her own blended prayer-meets-poetry, modern liturgies. Then, she started sharing them on Instagram under the moniker, Black Liturgies. Almost immediately, the project took off, growing into a global phenomenon. Her work then led to Cole’s debut book and New York Times bestseller, This Here Flesh: Spirituality, Liberation, and the Stories That Make Us, which explores some of the most urgent questions of life, identity, and faith: How can spirituality not silence the body, but instead allow it to come alive? How do we honor, lament, and heal from the stories we inherit? How can we find peace in a world overtaken with dislocation, noise, and unrest? In this stunning work, Cole invites us to descend into our own stories, examine our capacity to rest, wonder, joy, rage, and repair, and find that our humanity is not an enemy to faith but evidence of it. And we talk about all of it in today’s conversation. Her journey, her wisdom, the incredible response of the community, and more.You can find Cole at: Website | InstagramIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Alex Elle about how to heal.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED: We’re looking for special guest “wisdom-seekers” to share the moment you’re in, then pose questions to Jonathan and the Sparked Braintrust to be answered, “on air.” To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if you were, unknowingly being controlled by unresolved pain from your past, even minor, or momentary experiences, ones that took root and, from that moment on, without you having any idea, limited everything from your relationships to your health, work, wealth, and life? We all encounter unresolved pain from our past, or what my guest today, New York therapist and author of the new book The Origins of You: How Breaking Family Patterns Can Liberate the Way We Live and Love, Vienna Pharaon, calls origin wounds. But most of us don't realize they’re even there, so we just keep repeating patterns that lead to unhappiness, having no idea what’s really stopping us from feeling more connected and alive. Even if we do recognize them, understanding and dealing with them can be a difficult and intimidating process. I love how practical, strategic, and tool-oriented Vienna is in her approach. I opened my eyes to such much, maybe it’ll do the same for you.You can find Vienna at: Website | Instagram | “What’s Your Origin Wound” quizIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Bessel van der Kolk about resolving trauma.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED: We’re looking for special guest “wisdom-seekers” to share the moment you’re in, then pose questions to Jonathan and the Sparked Braintrust to be answered, “on air.” To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever wonder if entrepreneurship is for you? Whether starting a personal business like coaching or consulting, building around an idea, platform, technology or product, teaching others what you know, either in person or through books, courses and talks, heading out on your own, blazing your own path can be scary. And, this is especially true if you’re walking away from a job with a nice salary, benefits, and some sense of security. Even more so if your resources are limited.But, does it have to be that scary or risky? What can we do to, first, understand if this path is right for us and, second, set ourselves up for success? Not just in building a flourishing business, but also in crafting a life you love? These are the questions we’re exploring today with my long-time friend, Amy Porterfield.Now 14 years in, having helped tens of thousands of people, Amy has built an extraordinarily successful company with a full team and many offerings, and produces a top-ranked podcast, Online Marketing Made Easy. She’s become a true champion, and also a leading voice on how to make the transition into entrepreneurship. In her new book, Two Weeks Notice: Find the Courage to Quit Your Job, Make More Money, Work Where You Want, and Change the World, Amy dives into her journey, then walks you through a detailed process to envision, validate, and build your own, low-risk, easy-on-the-psyche business. And, we dive deep into it all in today’s conversation.You can find Amy at: Website | Instagram | Online Marketing Made Easy with Amy Porterfield podcastIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Lisa Congdon about transitioning from full-time work to building a successful career in the arts.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED: We’re looking for special guest “wisdom-seekers” to share the moment you’re in, then pose questions to Jonathan and the Sparked Braintrust to be answered, “on air.” To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if paradise was real? But, instead of searching and traveling a journey to the far ends of the earth to find it, you could touch it at any moment, in any place, no matter how amazing or awful the setting or circumstance. And what if paradise or peace is something completely different than this all-perfect place or feeling a lot of us believe it to be? What if that feeling we so yearn to experience, is here and now, dead center in our lives of complexity and paradox? And, we just had to know what to do to feel it?Today's guest, Pico Iyer, has spent much of his life searching, living, and listening for insight and answers to life's big questions. A full-time writer and essayist since 1982, Pico's insightfulness and quest for meaning have led him to places and people all across the world. From Iran to North Korea, from the Dalai Lama’s Himalayas to the ghostly temples of Japan. He has shared his travels and lessons learned in his 15 books on subjects ranging from the Dalai Lama to globalism and the Cuban Revolution to Islamic mysticism. In our conversation, Pico and I dive deeper into his story and the events in his life that have led him to some powerful revelations that he shares in his latest book, The Half-Known Life: In Search of Paradise. We talk about some key ideas that make up a good life of peace, happiness and meaning. Pico opens up about the losses, opportunities, and, often, paradoxical feelings and experiences that helped him find paradise here on Earth. You can find Pico at: WebsiteIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Robert Thurman about meaning, Buddhism, and life.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED: We’re looking for special guest “wisdom-seekers” to share the moment you’re in, then pose questions to Jonathan and the Sparked Braintrust to be answered, “on air.” To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount CodesPeloton: Access high-energy workouts, instantly. Discover Peloton: streaming fitness classes to you live and on-demand. New Members who choose monthly billing get a 30-day free trial, or choose annual billing and get 12 months of Membership for the price of 10. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if you didn’t have to keep everything bottled up? Or show up a certain way? Or deny what you’re going through or feeling? What if you could just sit with it, feel it fully, then find a way to not only release it, but turn those feelings, thoughts, and emotions into something that went out into the world and moved people to feel and connect and love and laugh, too?This is the work, the world, and life of New York City designer, illustrator, muralist, and author, Timothy Goodman. Surviving early life trauma, losing himself to drugs, getting arrested, and barely graduating high school, a chance encounter with a boss who’d become a mentor rekindled a passion for art and expression that had been seeded by the example of his grandma decades earlier. He was smitten with design, storytelling, and art and poured himself into it, eventually finding his way to New York City, studying at SVA, and knowing in his bones, this would be his home for life. Over the years, he’s built a stunning career. His new book, I Always Think It's Forever: A Love Story Set in Paris as Told by an Unreliable but Earnest Narrator, takes us into his exploration of love, blending poignant stories, insights and awakenings with vibrant joyful illustrations. And his body of work openly explores Timothy’s own mental health challenges and concern about the state of the world, sometimes centering both in his work. You can find Timothy at: Website | Instagram | TwitterIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Jason Naylor about the sweet spot between art, commerce and impact.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED: We’re looking for special guest “wisdom-seekers” to share the moment you’re in, then pose questions to Jonathan and the Sparked Braintrust to be answered, “on air.” To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount CodesPeloton: Access high-energy workouts, instantly. Discover Peloton: streaming fitness classes to you live and on-demand. New Members who choose monthly billing get a 30-day free trial, or choose annual billing and get 12 months of Membership for the price of 10. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you get through each day, let alone build a meaningful, connected and rewarding career when rapid-fire, constant change, groundlessness, unrelenting pace, overwhelm, and even workplace toxicity have become the norm?That’s where we’re headed with my guest today, Gabriella Rosen Kellerman. Her new book, Tomorrowmind: Thriving at Work—Now and in an Uncertain Future which was co-authored with renowned psychologist Martin Seligman, also known as the father of positive psychology, offers critical insights for facing a wildly fluctuating, seemingly perpetually unstable future of work. And in our conversation today, we explore a bit of Gabriella's background and her own trajectory in her career before diving into five science-backed strategies or workplace superpowers that can help us all thrive at work. From resilience to building rapid rapport at work, there's a lot of great insight to learn here.You can find Gabriella at: Website | LinkedInIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with DJ DiDonna about professional sabbaticals.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED: We’re looking for special guest “wisdom-seekers” to share the moment you’re in, then pose questions to Jonathan and the Sparked Braintrust to be answered, “on air.” To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount CodesPeloton: Work out anytime, anywhere with the Peloton App. New Members who choose monthly billing get a 30-day free trial, or choose annual billing and get 12 months of Membership for the price of 10. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In a world that seems to be constantly in motion, it can be difficult to find calm. Whether it's the never-ending stream of news notifications on our phones or the constant pressure to be doing, it can feel like we're always on the go. But it is possible to find calm amidst the chaos. Here are 7 ways to do just that.You can find the 1-page worksheet HERE.Find All Of The Episodes In This Series:How to Succeed at Anything Worth Doing | 2023 KickstartA Simple Model for a Really Good Life | 2023 KickstartWhat Should I Do With My Life? Start Here | Kickstart 2023Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED: We’re looking for special guest “wisdom-seekers” to share the moment you’re in, then pose questions to Jonathan and the Sparked Braintrust to be answered, “on air.” To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you weren’t paying attention to your health before the last few years, you are now. Question is, what should we actually be paying attention to? And, are there major things, early or even real-time indicators that could tell us how our day-to-day choices are affecting everything from our energy to level of pain, inflammation, fatigue, mental health and risk of chronic illness or life-altering disease, but that most of us are missing? These are the questions I pose to today’s guest, Dr. Casey Means, as we explore the world of metabolic and mitochondrial health and how technology is now becoming available on more of a mass scale that can help us reclaim control over so many aspects of our immediate and long-term wellbeing. And even guide our behavioral choices, from food to movement to meditation in real-time. And, I also share my own experience running my own, personal experiments with this emerging tech.You can find Casey at: Levels Website | Casey's Instagram | Levels InstagramIf you LOVED this episode you’ll also love the conversations we had with Dr. Aviva Romm about hormones, well-being, and the struggles of modern healthcare.Check out our offerings & partners: My New Book SparkedMy New Podcast SPARKED: We’re looking for special guest “wisdom-seekers” to share the moment you’re in, then pose questions to Jonathan and the Sparked Braintrust to be answered, “on air.” To submit your “moment & question” for consideration to be on the show go to sparketype.com/submit. Visit Our Sponsor Page For Great Resources & Discount Codes Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.