Often, we doubt ourselves and our creative ideas. We think that creative people were born with special abilities. And often, we doubt our creative talents. But, is that what we truly believe? If so, why are those creative ideas still in our heads? Ready to come out. Here’s the truth- they were given to you because you were born to create it. Creativity isn’t a birthright or destination, it’s a process. If you follow the I.D.E.A strategy and keep working, good things will happen. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I talk about how everyone has a creative force inside of them and what it takes to develop that creativity with an author, entrepreneur and photographer: Chase Jarvis. Chase Jarvis is an American artist, director, entrepreneur and author who co-founded the on-line educational platform Creative Live. Chase consistently uses his voice to educate and inspire people to achieve their creative potential. As a child, Chase Jarvis loved being creative and started making his own films, but after overhearing his teacher tell his parents “Chase is so much better at sports than arts”, he lost his creative passion and replaced it with a need to achieve athletically. In the following years he became a standout athlete in multiple sports, but his grandfather’s death reignited his creative spirit and since that time he has lived a creative life putting his creative spirit into everything he does. Now, his mission is to help people tap into their creative potential. So, get ready to learn how to unleash your creativity on Episode 853. Some Questions I Ask: Why do we shut down creativity? (13:20) How much happier are creative people? (19:44) How can you make creativity your daily practice? (33:40) Why is it important for artists to build powerful relationships? (38:09) Why did you decide to write the book now? (47:18) In This Episode You Will Learn: Why you should dream big (16:20) Why Mindset Matters (21:50) How to move with intent (34:00) Why building relationships is important (38:09) The I.D.E.A creative process (38:25) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the video, show notes, and more at http://www.lewishoes.com/853 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes

Stress is an unavoidable part of life. It’s not about having a stress-free life- it’s about learning how to deal with it gracefully. Think of the last stressful moment you had. How did you react? Did you get angry and tense up? Or were you able to breathe and move through it? The more we work on our reaction when things go differently than we’d hoped, the happier we will be. For this Five Minute Friday, I revisited a conversation I had with Dan Millman where he shared his definition of stress and the practice that helps him with it. Dan Millman is a former world champion athlete, university coach, martial arts instructor, and college professor. After an intensive, twenty-year spiritual quest, Dan’s teaching found its form as the Peaceful Warrior’s Way. He has now written seventeen books. Learn how to move through life without tension in Episode 852. In This Episode You Will Learn: Dan’s definition of stress (2:30) Stress with tension vs. stress without tension (3:50) How martial arts can help with stress (4:30) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the video, show notes, and more at http://www.lewishowes.com/852 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes

YOU TEACH OTHERS HOW TO TREAT YOU. Often, we don’t like how people talk to us. Whether it’s at home, at work, or with our friends, there are many times where we don’t get the respect we desire. It feels terrible. But how much ownership do we take of those situations? Here’s the truth- you get what you put up with. Unless you’re willing to set boundaries and tell people what’s not ok, you’ll end up being walked over. If you keep showing up, people will assume that it isn’t that bad. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I talk about what it takes to stand up for the things you believe with an actor-turned-activist: Sophia Bush. Sophia Bush starred as Brooke Davis in The WB/CW drama series One Tree Hill and as Det. Erin Lindsay in the NBC police procedural drama series Chicago P.D. Sophia consistently uses her platform for activism and fundraising and has a new podcast called Work in Progress. Sophia stood up for herself before the Me Too Movement began by quitting a television show where she was being mistreated. She shares her struggle to admit that something was wrong and the tricks her mind played on her in the process. So get ready to learn how to have the courage to demand change on Episode 851. Some Questions I Ask: What’s missing in your toolkit? (31:00) What needs to change for actual change to happen? (53:00) How do we know what to take on first? (58:00) What are the three accounts we should follow to be educated on what’s going on? (1:12:00) Who was the most influential person in your life? (1:18:30) In This Episode You Will Learn: The scary side of acting (27:00) About Lewis’ “Yes and No List” (34:00) The importance of opening up about what you’re ashamed of (40:00) The struggle Sophia had with quitting her toxic work environment (45:00) How to separate yourself from the system that you’re in (1:00:00) Sophia’s plan for the future (1:24:00) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the video, show notes, and more at http://www.lewishowes.com/851 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes

THE CRITICS ARE COMING. People understand that there will be challenges and fear when they chase their dreams. But they’re not willing to be embarrassed. Are you willing to look like a fool? To go all-in and fail? It’s a guarantee when you go after the thing you want. You have to keep putting your head out there knowing that it could get chopped off. The more you face your fears, the more self-confidence you’ll have. You will fall. You need to have the grit to use it as fuel to get back up. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I talk about relentlessly pursuing your passion with one of the most successful football players in history: Tony Gonzalez. Tony Gonzalez is a Pro Football Hall of Famer, retired All-Pro NFL Tight end, and father of four. He is currently an analyst on Fox NFL’s pregame show. During his career, he only missed two games and lost only two fumbles on 1,327 touches. Tony is open about his struggles with depression and self-doubt that he might not be good enough. But by working through these emotions, he has come out a more authentic and heart-centered person. So get ready to learn how to get into the flow of life on Episode 850. Some Questions I Ask: How do you get connected to the heart when there is so much ego? (8:00) When did you experience the most self-doubt? (16:00) How do people stop caring what people think about them? (31:30) Who was the most influential for you growing up? (43:00) In This Episode You Will Learn: How to get into the flow (6:00) How to use criticism as fuel (20:00) About Tony’s struggle to transition from football to commentary (22:00) An exercise for opening your heart (32:00) About the letters Tony wrote himself before games (35:00) How to parent with your heart (52:00) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the video, show notes and more at http://www.lewishowes.com/850 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes

DON’T GET DISTRACTED BY SHINY THINGS. It can be exciting to receive connections to the rich and powerful. Fancy dinners, galas, and White House dinners can be tempting. But if these things are keeping you from accomplishing what you set out to do, you’re better off without them. Money comes with strings. If the people pulling those strings don’t align with your message, that money has too great a cost. For this Five Minute Friday, I revisited a conversation I had with Jacob Lief where he shared what has made his non-profit Ubuntu so successful. Jacob Lief is the Founder and CEO of Ubuntu Education Fund, a non-profit organization that takes vulnerable children living in the townships of Port Elizabeth, South Africa from cradle to career. Ubuntu's programs form an integrated system of medical, health, educational and social services, ensuring that a child who is either orphaned or vulnerable can, after several years, succeed. Jacob has been able to stay focused on one area and one community of people by being consistent about what Ubuntu says yes to. It’s not the most glamorous route, but it’s the most impactful. Learn how to stay disciplined and focused on your goal in Episode 849. In This Episode You Will Learn: The thing that has worked the best for Ubuntu (2:00) Why you sometimes have to say “no” to things (2:30) About the struggle to keep people interested in your cause (3:00) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the video, show notes, and more at http://www.lewishowes.com/849 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes

NEVER BE CLOSING. A lot of books about selling encourage you to act like someone you’re not. They tell you to say the other person’s name. Copy their body language. Become a salesman. But what if the key to selling is accepting who you are? What if everything weird about you is what will make you successful? Stop thinking of business as transactional. Instead, be generous. Play the long game. And be kind. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I talk about the soulful art of persuasion with an expert in marketing: Jason Harris. Jason Harris is the CEO of the award-winning creative agency Mekanism and the co-founder of the Creative Alliance. Harris works closely with brands through a blend of soul and science to create provocative campaigns that engage audiences. Iconic brands include Peloton, Ben & Jerry’s, MillerCoors, HBO, and the United Nations. Under his leadership, Mekanism was named to Ad Age’s Agency A-list, twice to their Best Places to Work, and to the Creativity 50. Harris has been named in the Top 10 Most Influential Social Impact Leaders, as well as the 4A’s list of “100 People Who Make Advertising Great.” His methods are studied in cases at Harvard Business School. Jason has put together four principles of persuasion that can help transform you into a master influencer. The bullet points are easy to understand and might even surprise you. So get ready to learn the soulful art of persuasion on Episode 848. Some Questions I Ask: What’s the most fun you’ve had working on a brand? (10:00) How can you be empathetic when people are attacking you? (31:00) What’s something people can do today to make them more influential (43:00) What are you three truths? (46:00) In This Episode You Will Learn: About Jason’s company Mekanism (5:00) Why you should never be closing (12:30) How vulnerability is key to power (16:00) The Four Core Principles of persuasion (19:00) Why it’s important to master different skills (38:00) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the video, show notes and more at http://www.lewishowes.com/848 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes

DO THINGS DIFFERENTLY. We all face a lot of pressure from the world. We’re constantly comparing ourselves to others on social media and getting critiques from friends and family. Whether it’s when to have kids, our relationship choices, or a nontraditional career, it’s hard to step outside the box. We might feel judged. We might feel alone. And it might be scary to wander into new territory. So how can we stay true to what WE want? On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I talk to an inspirational woman changing the world on her terms: Marie Forleo. Marie Forleo is a life coach, motivational speaker, author and host of Marie TV. She is the owner of Marie Forleo International, B-School and MarieTV, and Oprah named Marie a thought leader for the next generation. Marie is passionate about spreading her message that you can figure out the problems in your life. She shares three simple steps to avoid getting overwhelmed and feeling helpless. So get ready to learn how life is “figureoutable” on Episode 847. Some Questions I Ask: What’s been the greatest lesson in the last 10 years? (6:00) What are the things you think you’re not doing well in business? (24:00) Are you open to the idea of marriage? (35:00) Where would you be if you were single for the last 10 years? (38:00) Where do you have the least amount of confidence? (48:30) What are the 3-5 things you do every day or most days? (1:00:00) In This Episode You Will Learn: How work ethic can be a bad thing (13:00) How Marie sets non-negotiable “adventure time” with her husband (16:00) The importance of downtime at home and in your job (20:00) About Marie’s decision to not have kids (27:00) Why you should trust your timing (42:00) The three rules for understanding “everything is figureoutable” (1:18:00) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the video, show notes and more at http://www.lewishowes.com/847 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes

WRITE FOR OTHERS, NOT FOR YOU. There are a lot of smart, accomplished people in our audience. You know things that are valuable to others. You’ve got great businesses. You’re ready to share that knowledge with the world. But figuring out where to start can be overwhelming. For this Five Minute Friday, I revisited a conversation I had with Tucker Max where he shared his three steps to starting your book. Tucker Max is a NYTimes Best-selling Author who was named one of Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential in 2009. He invented the genre “fratire,” and his number one bestseller, I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell, was made into a major motion picture. Tucker is the co-founder of Scribe, a company that turns ideas into books. He says that before you sit down and start typing, you should first hone in on who you’re writing for and what you’re writing. Learn how to find the goal, audience, and subject of your book in Episode 846. In This Episode You Will Learn: How to understand what kind of book you’re writing (02:00) How to find the audience for your book (03:00) The way to figure out what to write about (04:00) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the show notes and more at http:/www.lewishowes.com/846

BELIEVE IN SOMETHING GREATER. There are two types of winners I’ve observed. Both of them have confidence. But one winner, when asked how they did it, answers, “I am the greatest.” The other winner, when asked how they did it, answers, “God is the greatest.” Are you putting pressure on yourself to succeed or fail? Or are you putting your strength in something greater? Whether or not you consider yourself a religious person, know that you are not going through life in a vacuum. You’re never on your journey alone. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I talk about spirituality, loss, and dreaming big with one of the most inspirational performers on the planet: Lindsey Stirling. Lindsey Stirling is a modern-day "Dancing Violinist" who got her start on American’s Got Talent in 2010. Since then, she has over 11 million subscribers on YouTube. She has been called "The Hip Hop Violinist" due to her twist on songs from today's hits, as well as creating an electronic / dubstep album of original compositions. Lindsey has learned to use her spirituality to inspire her to do things she never thought possible. She shares the daily practices that ground her and retrain her brain. So get ready to learn how to live intentionally and with gratitude on Episode 845. Some Questions I Ask: Why do we lose the ability to dream? (23:30) How do we “re-dream” when things are going well? (26:00) What should someone do who is experiencing periods of darkness? (31:00) How does someone build a belief in themselves? (37:00) How did you handle two close people passing away? (42:00) What’s missing in your life right now? (54:00) What would your dad be most proud of today? (1:00:00) In This Episode You Will Learn: The inspiration behind Lindsey’s new album (7:00) About Lindsey’s experience getting booed off the stage on America’s Got Talent (12:00) Why you need to live life without limits (19:00) How to live intentionally (34:00) How gratitude affects happiness (37:00) Why Dancing With The Stars was spiritual for Lindsey (47:00) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the show notes, video and more at http://www.lewishowes.com/845 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes

FAMILY ISN’T EVERYTHING. How often have you heard phrases about putting family first? Most of us had a plaque on the wall growing up that said something similar. But if you’re letting family walk all over you, you’re doing a disservice to yourself. We get what we tolerate. If you don’t like something, but you tolerate it, you can’t expect people to change. So how do we have better relationships with our families? We have to create a request. And we have to keep our word. Telling people what you need doesn’t always feel good, but it’s necessary to take care of yourself. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I talk about boundaries and reparenting yourself with an inspirational holistic psychologist: Dr. Nicole Lepera. Dr. Nicole LePera is a Holistic Psychologist who believes that mental wellness is for everyone. She evolved her more traditional training from Cornell University and The New School to one that acknowledges the connection between the mind and body. Dr. LePera founded the Mindful Healing Center in Center City Philadelphia where she works with individuals, couples, and families taking gut health, sleep, movement, cellular health, belief, and mindfulness into treatment. Dr. Nicole Lepera shares her three steps to creating healthy boundaries and how to break cycles in ourselves. So get ready to learn how to be a self healer on Episode 844. Some Questions I Ask: What were your biggest limiting beliefs? (9:30) How do we become unstuck? (17:00) How do we manage the guilt of our family? (23:00) How do we regulate our nervous system? (46:00) What does it mean to “reparent” yourself? (1:0200) How do we become a self healer every day? (1:16:00) In This Episode You Will Learn: How emotion is tied to memory (12:00) What “interdependence” means (20:00) The three steps to create a boundary (29:00) How to “depersonalize” (39:00) Dr. Nicole’s definition of manifestation (57:00) About the “Small, Daily Promise” (1:13:00) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the video, show notes and more at http://www.lewishowes.com/844 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes

TURN ADVERSITY INTO ADVANTAGE. Do you spend a lot of time wishing things were different? Do you feel sorry for yourself for the struggles you face? Maybe it’s time to reframe those obstacles as gifts. After all, the things that hurt us the most can help us show others more love. Pain can lead us to pleasure. And your negative experiences will lead you to greatness. For this Five Minute Friday, I revisited a conversation I had with Prince Ea where he shared his message that everything is perfect. Richard Williams, better known by his stage name Prince EA, is an American rapper, spoken word artist, music video director and rights activist from St Louis, Missouri. He has over four million subscribers on YouTube and inspires people daily with his viral videos. Learn how to accept your present while changing your future on Episode 843. In This Episode You Will Learn: How the artist Immortal Technique influenced Prince Ea (2:00) The importance of accepting what is (3:00) About the philosophy that everything is perfect (3:30) How pain can be ultimately good (4:00) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the video, show notes and more at http://www.lewishowes.com/843 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes

PLAY MORE CHESS AND LESS CHECKERS. We always make fun of dogs chasing their tails. It’s funny to watch- they spin and spin and spin trying to catch the impossible. They eventually flop onto the ground exhausted. What’s the “tail” you are chasing? You probably think something will change when you finally catch that thing that is just out of reach, but the reality is that it probably won’t. I’ve accomplished so many goals that ultimately left me feeling empty. Stop spinning around reaching for things that won’t ultimately bring you happiness. Instead, focus on the process and the impact you have on others. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I talk about figuring out what really matters with a King of New York hospitality: Eugene Remm. Eugene Remm is an entrepreneur and wellness expert whose companies include Catch Hospitality Group (Catch Restaurants, Lexington Brass) and the boxing-inspired group fitness concept Rumble. Forbes Magazine dubbed him one of the “New Kings of New York Hospitality.” Eugene has been able to leverage social media in truly innovative ways by staying ahead of trends and being authentic. He had to learn through failure to be a team player. He now teaches that looking out for the benefit of all benefits you as well. So get ready to learn how to play big and stay humble on Episode 842. Some Questions I Ask: What happened to your nightclubs? (27:00) How do you handle relationships when their investments are lost? (28:00) What was the moment you had the biggest ego slap? (34:30) Why does a nightclub guy think he can start a fitness company? (47:00) How do you attract such high profile investors? (52:00) How do you manage 1000 people? (1:04:00) In This Episode You Will Learn: Why you should focus on the process and not the goal (7:00) Why it’s important to know your limit (21:00) The power of taking accountability for your failures (25:00) Why you need a balance of gut instincts and data (38:00) The three things you need to be successful (40:00) When to lean into a trend and when to go against it (42:00) Why paying people isn’t the number one thing (1:06:00) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the video, show notes and more at http://www.lewishowes.com/842 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes

GRIT CANNOT BE TAUGHT. What does it mean to be unstoppable? No matter what knocks you down, you stay the course for your goal. It’s not enough to just withstand the struggle. You have to embrace the struggle. That’s what I did when I played football, and it’s what I do in my career today. Fall in love with the pain associated with your passion. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I talk about the power of grit with a champion surfer with an inspiring story: Bethany Hamilton. Bethany is a professional surfer, author and motivational speaker. At the age of 13, Bethany lost her left arm to a 14-foot tiger shark, which seemed to end her dream career as a surfer. However, one month after the attack, Bethany returned to surfing and within two years had won her first national surfing title. Bethany’s foundation of faith has been her backbone; her source of truth, hope, and strength. At 17 years old, she realized her dream of surfing professionally, and she is still an active surf competitor to this day. Bethany talks about her journey to become a mother and what it’s taught her. She also reveals the lessons her parents taught her that allowed her to get back on the board after losing her arm. So get ready to learn all about how to be unstoppable on Episode 841. If you enjoyed this episode check out the video, show notes and more at http://www.lewishowes.com/841 and follow at www.instagram.com/lewishowes.

WHAT TURNS YOUR CRANK? We often define ourselves by what job we do. I’m an accountant. I’m a teacher. I work in finance. But maybe we’re thinking about our careers in the wrong parameters. Instead of finding a job, we should be trying to find a way to feel excited and fulfilled every day. If you wake up with dread, you feel like you’re in a suit that’s too small, or you’re uninspired, you’re probably not in the right place. So how do we figure out what we’re meant to do? It’s not easy. But it’s worth trying to figure out. For this Five Minute Friday, I revisited a conversation I had with Suzy Welch where she shares how to find your “Area of Destiny.” Suzy Welch is a business journalist, TV commentator, and public speaker. A popular Today Show and CNBC contributor, Suzy is the author of the New York Times bestseller 10-10-10: A Life Transforming Idea, a guide to values-driven decision making. With her husband, Jack Welch, Suzy founded the Jack Welch Management Institute, ranked as one of the top online MBA programs in the world by Princeton Review and CEO Magazine. In This Episode You Will Learn: About the sermon that gave Suzy the idea of the “Area of Destiny” (2:30) The two types of “Super Highways” (3:30) How to find what you’re uniquely good at (4:00)

YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE YESTERDAY. We are all governed by fear. Even when good things happen, we’re afraid they will go away. Once you accept and welcome your fear, it won’t have control over you anymore. It’s about embracing the duality. You have to be ok with the best outcome and the worst outcome. Here’s the truth: you don’t have to live anxious and scared. You don’t have to be governed by your story. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I talk about increasing your receiving vibration with a comedian turned motivational speaker: Kyle Cease. Kyle Cease is a New York Times best-selling author with two #1 Comedy Central specials to his credit. He has been a guest speaker at thousands of colleges, summits, and Fortune 500 conferences and has made over 100 TV and movie appearances. Kyle teaches that most of our “triggers” are fears we have based on old stories. Once we dig deep to figure out where those are rooted, we can stop letting them control us. So get ready to learn how to let go of fear on Episode 839. Some Questions I Ask: Why do we resist fear? (56:30) How do we overcome our fears? (1:00:00) How do you get prepared to receive money? (1:22:00) How important is it to develop skills? (1:26:00) In This Episode You Will Learn: How to operate with a receiving vibration (9:00) How to avoid ending up in a codependent relationship (23:00) Why you have to accept opposites (34:00) How meditation transforms the old story (38:00) The only thing that causes fear (56:00) An exercise to get rid of fear (1:03:00) The purpose of triggers (1:07:00) Why you should be careful about the way you talk about money (1:15:00) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the video, show notes and more at http://www.lewishowes.com/839 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes

BE A CONSCIOUS SAMARITAN. Most of us know the parable of The Good Samaritan. It tells the story of an injured man at the side of the road. The priest crosses to the other side and ignores the man in need of help. The Levite does the same. The Samaritan, though, stops and cares for the man. But let’s zoom out a bit. Is there something we could do on a more global scale so that less men are left injured and uncared for on the side of the road? People are living with chronic trauma. Every day is a struggle. If there is a way to help more people at once, we should be open to making those changes. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I talk about caring for those who are in need with a 2020 candidate for President of the United States: Marianne Williamson. Marianne Williamson is an internationally acclaimed lecturer, activist and author of four #1 New York Times bestselling books. She has been a popular guest on television programs such as Oprah, Good Morning America, and Bill Maher. In 1989, she founded Project Angel Food, a meals-on-wheels program that serves homebound people with AIDS in the Los Angeles area. To date, Project Angel Food has served over 11 million meals. Marianne also co-founded the Peace Alliance. Marianne is seeking to harness the power of love to fight the hate she sees in the world. She teaches us to go “all in” for the causes we believe in while being unattached to the result. So get ready to learn how to overcome the fear of failure and change the world on Episode 838. If you enjoyed this episode, check out the video, show notes and more at http://www.lewishowes.com/838 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes

NOTHING HAPPENS EASILY. If you want to make real change in your life, you have to know it’s going to be uncomfortable. Everything has its process. You’re going to feel scared. You’re going to have growing pains. That’s part of being a human. But your ability to make mistakes and still stay true to your goals will determine whether or not you make it. You have to take it one step at a time. You have to surround yourself with people who share your belief system. And you have to be honest with yourself. Little by little, your self-confidence will grow, and you’ll be miles away from where you started. For this Five Minute Friday, I revisited a conversation I had with Gabrielle Reece where she shared strategies to increase your belief in yourself. Gabby is a world-renowned athlete, New York Times bestselling author, wife, and mother. Together with her husband, surfing legend Laird Hamilton, Gabby is an avid proponent of empowering people to take responsibility for their health and a truly authentic example of healthy living. Gabby has become a role model for women worldwide regarding how to achieve peak fitness, good health, and overall well-being for themselves and their entire family. Gabby says that you need to create the infrastructure around yourself to be successful. Learn how baby steps will help you reach your goals in Episode 837. “When it can be easy, allow it to be easy.” - @GabbyReece In This Episode You Will Learn: How to create an infrastructure around yourself to be successful (1:30) Why baby steps are the most impactful (2:00) Why you have to surround yourself with people who have similar messaging (3:00) How to make a safe space for you to fail (4:50) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the video, show notes and more at http://www.lewishowes.com/837 amd follow at instagram.com/lewishowes

LET YOUR LIGHT SHINE. We all have greatness inside us. That’s the whole reason I started this podcast. So why do we make ourselves smaller to fit in with everyone else? Why do we hide? Why do we make excuses? Why do we let others dim our light? By denying our destiny, we create disease, conflict, and unhappiness. Shine your light. It’s not always easy. When you embrace your greatness, others will attack you. You’re challenging their “paradigm.” DO IT ANYWAYS. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I’ve combined key lessons from Teachers of The Secret: Michael Beckwith, Lisa Nichols, Jack Canfield, John Assaraf, and Bob Proctor. Michael Beckwith, Lisa Nichols, Jack Canfield, John Assaraf, and Bob Proctor are all featured in the book and movie The Secret. Michael Beckwith is a minister, author, and founder of the Agape International Spiritual Center, a New Thought church with a congregation estimated in excess of 8,000 members. Lisa Nichols is a hugely successful entrepreneur, life coach, and CEO of one of the first publicly traded self-development companies. Jack Canfield is the co-author of the Chicken Soup for the Soul series, which has more than 250 titles and 500 million copies in print in over 40 languages. John Assaraf is founder of NeuroGym, has built 5 multimillion dollar companies, wrote 2 New York Times Bestselling books and is featured in 8 movies. Bob Proctor is the best-selling author of “You Were Born Rich” and has transformed the lives of millions through his books, seminars, and courses. These teachers help us to use visualization to tell The Universe what we want. It’s not difficult, but it’s a skill many of us have never been taught. So get ready to learn how to master the Law of Attraction on Episode 836. Some Questions I Ask: How do you deal with people trying to dim your light? (07:15) What are you most proud of? (10:00) Is there ever a place for anger? (12:00) How does someone discover their unique calling? (15:00) How can someone be positive when they’re broke and unhealthy? (22:00) In This Episode You Will Learn: Why people attack you when you go after your dream (7:30) How to visualize with emotion to create cognitive dissonance (13:30) Why you should pursue acts of service instead of “things” (17:45) How negative self-talk affects the brain (19:15) The only two beliefs that exist (24:00) The fundamental truths to achieving success (26:00) Why so many brilliant people are not successful (36:00) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the video show notes and more at http://www.lewishowes.com/836 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes

ENERGY FLOWS TO AND THROUGH YOU. We tend to minimize what we think we can accomplish. We put ourselves in a box. But we often think that other people can do what we can’t. Why do we believe in others more than ourselves? We all have infinite potential. But we let our “paradigm” define what’s possible. Let’s investigate all the ways your thoughts are holding you back from being happy, healthy, and wealthy. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I talk about shifting your paradigms with a master of the Law of Attraction: Bob Proctor. Bob Proctor is one of the most sought-after speakers in the world and featured in the wildly popular film, The Secret. For over 40 years, Bob Proctor has focused his work and teachings on helping people use the power of their mind to achieve prosperity, rewarding relationships and spiritual awareness. He is the best-selling author of "You Were Born Rich" and has transformed the lives of millions through his books, seminars, courses and personal coaching. Bob says he was going nowhere before he “woke up” to how the universe works. He’s passionate because he figures that if it could work for him, it could work for anyone. So get ready to learn how to develop your six mental faculties on Episode 835. Some Questions I Ask: Why do you call your former self a loser? (9:00) Did you have big dreams as a kid? (24:00) Which faculty was the hardest for you to tap into? (29:30) What’s the thing you want to change most in yourself? (59:00) Do you think you’ll ever realize your potential? (1:03:00) What is something you’re proud of that most people don’t know about you? (1:23:33) In This Episode You Will Learn: How Bob almost missed the change to film The Secret (5:00) The power of generosity (14:00) How Bob changed his outlook on money (15:30) The 6 faculties to improve the qualities of your life (28:00) How to develop your intuition (33:00) The power of self-image (43:00) The key habits to change your life (1:21:00) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the video, show notes and more at http://www.lewishowes.com/835

WHAT’S YOUR EXCUSE? We love to focus on why we’re not able to go after our dreams. Whether it’s our financial situation, our past, or the government, it’s much easier to blame an outside force than take responsibility. But what if there are no excuses? What if the only thing in your way is you? After all, you can’t change your circumstances. But you can change how you react to them. Life isn’t happening to you- you’re happening to it. For this Five Minute Friday, I revisited a conversation I had with Fabio Viviani where he shared how he became successful in America despite being in debt and not speaking English. Fabio believes that complaining only holds you back from going after what you really want. Learn how to succeed in spite of any circumstances in Episode 834. In This Episode You Will Learn: Fabio’s mindset (2:13) Fabio’s biggest pet peeve (1:45) Why Fabio lives his life like a “military tank” (2:00) How Fabio re-created his success in America arriving half a million dollars in debt and not speaking English (2:30) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the video, show notes and more at http://www.lewishowes.com/834

JOIN ME FOR TESLA TALKS. Be open. Be honest. Let other people in. Too often we keep up walls and try to hide who we really are. But when you are vulnerable and transparent, amazing things can happen. My friend Matt joins me in the Tesla for this episode of The School of Greatness to ask me 73 questions. I answer them all. Instead of “Coffee Conversations,” this is “Tesla Talks.” Matt asks me some silly questions, but we also get deep about my goals. I share a dark dream I had about my greatest fear, I talk about the scariest moment of my life, and the one question I wish I got asked more. We had a lot of fun- I hope you enjoy it! So get ready to know 73 new things about me on Episode 833. In This Episode You Will Learn: My greatest fear (16:00) My secret talent (23:02) My most-used emoji (29:30) What I would do if I weren’t doing what I do now (33:50) My career high point (24:00) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the video, show notes and more at http://www.lewishowes.com/833 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes

WE HAVE TO BE HONEST WITH OURSELVES. We learn a lot of coping mechanisms when we’re younger. They help us get through tough times. But so many of us are still carrying around tactics that are no longer needed. They can make us defensive. They can prevent us from developing relationships. And they can hold us back from our goals. We need to “update our software.” Our situation has changed, but our brain has stayed the same. By working through your issues and not being afraid to change, we can learn healthier ways to move through the world. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I talk about letting go of the things that no longer serve us with a world-famous comedian: Whitney Cummings. Whitney Cummings is a stand-up comedian, actress and producer. She created the CBS sitcom 2 Broke Girls, the NBC sitcom Whitney, and the movie The Female Brain. She was also a producer and writer for the ABC revival of Roseanne. So get ready to learn all about codependency and reinventing yourself on Episode 832. Some Questions I Ask: When did you realize you were good at stand up? (6:30) What are you most proud of? (29:00) Who was more influential growing up- mom or dad? (51:00) How do you deal with the Hollywood ups and downs? (1:06:00) In This Episode You Will Learn: Why we should forgive our parents (20:00) How anxiety can help you (27:00) How to change the type of people you’re attracted to (36:00) Why your relationship needs to be “boring” (41:30) The difference between interdependence and codependency (48:00) Why financial freedom is important to Whitney (1:00:00) About PC culture and stand up comedy (1:33:00) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the video, show notes and more at: http://www.lewishowes.com/832 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes.

TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR NARRATIVE. What stories are you telling? The ones you repeat will end up shaping your life. When you’re building a work culture, storytelling is key. They will determine how employees behave. They will shape the narratives they tell themselves about their coworkers. And they will inspire them to work even harder. How can you harness the power of storytelling to create an ideal environment for you and your company? For this Five Minute Friday, I revisited a conversation I had with Bryan Johnson where he shared how he used town hall meetings, stories, and unconventional hiring methods to make his ideal work culture. Bryan Johnson is the founder of Kernel, OS Fund and Braintree. In 2013, he sold Braintree to Paypal for $800 million. Bryan set a high standard for his employees that let them know they had to be at the top of their game at all times. Learn how to build an amazing work culture on Episode 831. In This Episode You Will Learn: How to communicate your vision to your team (02:30) The interesting job ad Bryan placed to find employees (2:45) Why Bryan used Town Hall meetings at work (04:00) How storytelling is key for the culture you want to build (5:15) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the video, show notes and more at http://www.lewishowes.com/831

IT’S TIME TO TRANSFORM. At some point in our lives, we have let go of our old selves and grow into something greater. Think about the king cobra. It starts to feel uncomfortable in its skin. It’s not able to see- its skin makes its vision blurred. So it moves in seclusion. It gets rid of the old skin, and a new shiny skin comes up. Suddenly, its vision is clear. We all need this process. We all need to let go of the past and embrace our future. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I talk about freeing ourselves from suffering with one of my most influential teachers: Preethaji. Preethaji is the co-founder of the O&O Academy near Chennai, India. O&O’s campus and teachings are designed to free humans from all forms of suffering. Combining ancient wisdoms and teachings with neuroscience and neurobiology, Preethaji helps students develop a personal practice of mindfulness, meditation, and breathwork with the goal of personal transformation. I studied with Preethaji in India, and it changed my life. She taught me that there are only two states in life: a suffering state and a beautiful state. So get ready to learn how to stop suffering on Episode 830. Some Questions I Ask: Why did this calling come to you when it did? (6:30) How do we stop suffering? (18:00) What happens when we fixate on past experiences? (23:00) Why do so many people hold onto heartbreak (39:30) What happens when our outer world is thriving but the inner world is suffering? (49:00) In This Episode You Will Learn: What to do when your children struggle with depression and addiction (11:00) The only two states in life (13:00) The fable of Yesmi and Nomi (22:00) The root of loneliness (25:00) The four sacred secrets (34:00) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the video, show notes, and more at http://www.lewishowes.com/830

TREAT OTHERS HOW YOU WANT TO BE TREATED. Kindness seems like a basic idea, but when you’re a champion it’s not high on your list. The Golden Rule isn’t always easy. Especially when you’re focused on yourself. But you can be the best and be good to others. It takes discipline. It takes mentorship. And it takes a commitment to what’s important in life. No matter what you’ve done in your past, you can always reinvent yourself. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I dive deep into never giving up from a champion who went through dark times: Mike Tyson. Tyson is a former undisputed heavyweight champion of the World and won his first 19 professional bouts by knockout, 12 of them in the first round. He holds the record as the youngest boxer to win the WBC, WBA and IBF heavyweight titles at 20 years, four months, and 22 days old. Mike Tyson is learning to forgive himself and be grateful. He also shares his feelings about discipline and how visualization helped him believe he could be a champion. So get ready to learn how to be a champion and why it’s never too late for a comeback on Episode 829. Some Questions I Ask: Did you know who you were at 25? (6:00) What was your biggest fear in your early 20s? (10:00) If your 25 year-old self was sitting here, what would you tell him? (14:00) What are you most proud of? (36:30) In This Episode You Will Learn: About Mike Tyson’s spiritual journey (4:30) The power of visualization (19:00) When Mike started to feel more peace in his heart (32:00) Why you should think outside the box (42:30) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the video, show notes and more at http://www.lewishowes.com/829 and follow at insagram.com/lewishowes.

CONSISTENCY IS KEY. So many of us diet. But we don’t maintain it. We start strong and then fall off. The reason? We don’t have a strong “why.” Wanting a six-pack isn’t enough. It has to be deeper than that. For this Five Minute Friday, I revisited a conversation I had with Drew Canole where he shared how to find your ideal diet and stay consistent. Drew Canole is a Nutrition Specialist, Transformation Specialist and national spokesperson for the benefits of juicing vegetables for health and vitality. He is the founder of Fitlife.TV where he shares "Educational, Inspirational and Entertaining" videos and articles about health, fitness, healing and longevity. Drew says that to succeed in your diet, you need a “whydentity.” This is the combination of your identity and your “why.” Learn how to finally stay consistent with your nutrition and your goals on Episode 825. In This Episode You Will Learn: How a genetic test can help you figure out what you should be eating (3:00) How to stay consistent with your diet (4:00) How to make your "why" strong enough (4:00) The reason coaching helps you lose weight (5:00) If you enjoyed this episode check out the video, show notes, and more at http://www.lewishowes.com/828

IT’S NEVER TOO LATE TO CHANGE LANES. Pivoting isn’t a sign of failure, it’s a sign that you’re listening to feedback. You have to know when to jump ship. If you don’t, you might be missing out on some amazing new opportunities. So, how do you know which direction to take? See what people are responding to. Build relationships with your audience. And never think you’ve missed your chance to follow a dream. There’s no better time than now. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I talk about being able to pivot with an entrepreneur who is never afraid to change directions: Mark Sisson. Mark Sisson is a New York Times bestselling author and founder of Primal Nutrition, LLC, and Primal Kitchen, LLC. He is the publisher of MarksDailyApple.com, the #1-ranked blog for over a decade in its health and fitness category. Mark says that he figured out his famous product by first building a brand. It took a lot of groundwork but ultimately paid off in the end. So get ready to learn how to be a successful entrepreneur at any age on Episode 827. Some Questions I Ask: How do you know when you need to pivot? (15:15) How did you have the mindset to shift into running a large business? (30:00) What advice would you have for people building their personal brand? (34:30) What was your biggest fear when building a food business? (40:00) How do you deal with companies knocking off your product? (45:00) In This Episode You Will Learn: About Mark’s journey to where he is now (6:00) The greatest skill set an entrepreneur can have (13:00) The power of hiring a team to execute your vision (31:00) Why in retail you have to compete on brand not price (36:00) How to build a brand (38:00) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the video, show notes and more at www.lewishowes.com/827 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes

GO FROM THINKING TO DOING TO BEING. Your emotions create your reality. You can either be held back by the feelings of your past, or you can create the feelings of your future. Every thought you have affects every atom. So how can we free ourselves from those familiar emotions that are keeping us from our ideal reality? It takes work. You’ll probably feel uncomfortable. You might even miss the old you. But once you harness your thoughts, you’ll be able to heal your body and create your future. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I talk about the power of the mind with a neuroscientist and one of my favorite past guests: Dr. Joe Dispenza. Dr. Joe Dispenza is an international lecturer, researcher, corporate consultant, author, and educator who has been invited to speak in more than 33 countries on six continents. In his easy-to-understand, encouraging, and compassionate style, he has educated thousands of people, detailing how they can rewire their brains and recondition their bodies to make lasting changes. Dr. Joe says that we can collapse space and time by using our thoughts and emotions to create our future. So get ready to learn how to have heart and brain coherence on Episode 826. Some Questions I Ask: How does someone feel worthy when they’ve always been told they’re not? (14:00) How do you achieve a coherent heart? (21:00) What’s more powerful- our thoughts or our emotions? (42:00) How does someone become aware of their thoughts? (49:00) For mission-driven people, how can you have a relationship? (1:02:00) In This Episode You Will Learn: How to stop being held back by your past (15:00) Why gratitude is crucial for changing your thoughts (24:00) About the scientific evidence backing up Dr. Joe’s work (26:00) How to use quantum physics to accomplish your dreams (45:00) Dr. Joe’s prediction for the future (1:10:00) The reason people’s dreams don’t happen (1:16:00)

WHAT WOULD YOU DO TO ACCOMPLISH YOUR DREAM? Are you giving all you’ve got? Or are you afraid to go all in? So often we give up before we’ve even begun. You are worthy of going after your dreams. You are worthy of fighting for what you want. You’ve got to commit to yourself so that you can succeed at the one thing you can control- your effort. For this Five Minute Friday, I’m doing a special solo episode where I share where I’m at in my journey to become an Olympic athlete. I received some difficult news about six weeks ago about the Pan American Games. But I’m still training with the team for the next ten days. I need to give everything I can so that I don’t have any regrets. In This Episode You Will Learn: Why I’m leaving for Brazil for the next week (1:30) The physical sacrifices I’ve made for handball (3:00) The reason I’m going even though I’m an alternate (3:50) What it takes to accomplish a goal (8:00)

THERE IS JUST CONSCIOUSNESS AND ITS CONTENTS. When you’re dreaming, you don’t know that you’re asleep. You’re caught up in the dream. That’s how most of us go through life. We’re unaware that we’re not actually experiencing the things we are feeling. But you can break the spell in a moment with meditation. When you become present, you’re no longer asleep. It’s time to wake up. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I continue my conversation on meditation and mindfulness with one of the greatest thinkers of our time: Sam Harris. Sam Harris is a New York Times best-selling author, podcast host, and creator of the Waking Up Course. His books include The End of Faith, Letter to a Christian Nation, The Moral Landscape, Free Will, Lying, Waking Up, and Islam and the Future of Tolerance (with Maajid Nawaz). The End of Faith won the 2005 PEN Award for Nonfiction. His writing and public lectures cover a wide range of topics—neuroscience, moral philosophy, religion, meditation practice, human violence, rationality—but generally focus on how a growing understanding of ourselves and the world is changing our sense of how we should live. Sam shares that when he experiences emotions like anger to sadness, he becomes interested in the emotion. He observes his body’s reaction and tries to distance himself from the feelings. So get ready to learn how mindfulness can end suffering on Episode 824. Some Questions I Ask: How do you eliminate worry? (49:00) How do we stay satisfied in an unsatisfied world? (1:07:00) When do you feel the most loved? (1:15:00) What’s the one lesson you want to teach your kids? (1:21:00) What’s the question you wish you had the answer to? (1:31:00) What are you most proud of? (1:40:00) In This Episode You Will Learn: The landmarks for mindfulness (53:00) Why the feeling of self is an illusion (54:00) The hardest part of meditation (01:11:00) What death has meant in Sam’s life (01:37:00) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the show notes, video, and more at http://lewishowes.com/824 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes

ALMOST ALL OF YOUR SUFFERING COMES FROM YOUR THOUGHTS. We all get stuck in the past. We worry about the future. We’re full of anxiety. It can consume us. And makes us ungrateful for what is happening now. In fact, you could say that the root of all our unhappiness is our thoughts. So how can we get more present? It’s not something that happens automatically. You have to practice every day. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I dive deep into the idea of eliminating suffering with an expert in meditation: Sam Harris. Sam Harris is a New York Times best-selling author, podcast host, and creator of the Waking Up Course. His books include The End of Faith, Letter to a Christian Nation, The Moral Landscape, Free Will, Lying, Waking Up, and Islam and the Future of Tolerance (with Maajid Nawaz). The End of Faith won the 2005 PEN Award for Nonfiction. His writing and public lectures cover a wide range of topics—neuroscience, moral philosophy, religion, meditation practice, human violence, rationality—but generally focus on how a growing understanding of ourselves and the world is changing our sense of how we should live. Sam explains how experiencing unconditional love got him interested in meditation and how he reframes the “bad things” that happen to him in life. So get ready to learn all about consciousness on Episode 823. Some Questions I Ask: When did you get into meditation? (6:00) Had you ever felt unconditional love before taking MDMA? (10:30) When did you start to focus on the desire to be happy? (15:50) Why do so many people believe so firmly in religion? (19:30) How do we unlock our consciousness? (32:40) If you could control your thoughts, what would you want to think? (41:00) In This Episode You Will Learn: The goal of meditation (14:00) The main tool we have is human conversation (18:00) The only important thing in the universe (30:00) How to reframe anxiety (35:00) Why worry is pointless (45:30) If you liked this episode, check out the video, show notes and more at http://www.lewishowes.com/823 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes

LIFE IS GOOD. Being an optimist instead of a pessimist is a choice. You can wake up each day and focus on what’s wrong. Or you can choose to be grateful. Whatever you focus on grows. So if you are spending your time on things that make you unhappy, they will take over. But if you can cultivate gratitude, simplicity, and optimism, that’s what your life will become. Choose happiness. For this Five Minute Friday, I revisited a conversation I had with Bert Jacobs, founder of the Life is Good Company, where he shared a few of his ten Superpowers that are surprisingly simple and timeless. Bert has appeared on CNN’s Tips from the Top, CNBC’s Business Nation, and The Donny Deutch Show. Life Is Good has been featured in the New York Times, on the cover of Inc Magazine, and on NBC’s The Today Show. Bert is the second youngest of six siblings from Needham, MA. He credits his mother with teaching his brother and him to face the bumps in the road with a smile. The Jacobs brothers see simplicity, humility, and a sense of humor as the three keys to Life is good’s continued success. Learn how to live a good life the same way your grandfather and your grandfather’s father did in Episode 822. “Optimism is a choice.” - @LifeIsGood In This Episode You Will Learn: Why optimism is a choice (1:00) How openness is a superpower (1:30) What selling “Life is Good” t-shirts taught Bert (2:00) About the tools for living a fulfilling life (3:00) For videos, show notes, and more visit: http://www.lewishowes.com/822 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes

IN CHARM WE TRUST. How do you enroll people in your vision? How do you ask for more than what your limiting beliefs think you deserve? How do you accomplish dreams even though you feel unprepared? It’s all about pushing past what you think you can do. You have to ask. And you need to surround yourself with people who will help you accomplish the impossible. The School of Greatness wouldn’t be what it is today without the help of my executive team. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I talk about the journey of The School of Greatness with my friend and COO Cesar and my amazing assistant: Sarah Livingstone. Sarah Livingstone has been my assistant for the last six years and is now moving on. She doesn’t love the spotlight, but I wanted to stretch her by having her as a guest on The School of Greatness. She says the keys to being a great assistant are thinking three steps ahead of others and believing in the message. So get ready to learn more about Sarah and how The School of Greatness has become what it is today on Episode 821. Some Questions I Ask: What’s been the biggest lesson from the last four years? (11:00) What was the highlight of the second your for you? (29:00) What advice do you have about being a great team player? (35:30) Who was your favorite guest on The School of Greatness? (43:00) Was there ever a time you wanted to quit? (46:00) What advice do you have for me moving forward? (56:00) In This Episode You Will Learn: The story of how Sarah and I met (15:00) About the “champagne” story (19:00) Sarah’s highlight of the six years (24:00) About the evolution of Sarah’s mindset (40:00) What’s next for Sarah (1:00:00) For videos, show notes, and much more go to www.lewishowes.com/821 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes.

DO THINGS ON YOUR OWN TERMS. We all judge people. We make assumptions about what people care about and who they are based on the way they look. But people are often more than they seem. No matter what judgments people may have of you, you can break the status quo. Never let the way you look determine what you’re capable of. Keep questioning your judgements and make others question. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I talk about defying people’s expectations with a couple who is much more than they seem: Lauryn and Michael Bosstick. Lauryn Evarts and Michael Bosstick host the entrepreneurial podcast, The Skinny Confidential HIM & HER, which just hit 16 million downloads. Lauryn has turned her passion for beauty, wellness and no-censor advice into one of the most distinctive blogs online today, The Skinny Confidential. Along with the blog Lauryn released her own book, The Skinny Confidential Lifestyle Guide and a BODY GUIDE, which is a monthly subscription service that includes new workouts and meal plans. Michael Bosstick is the CEO of Dear Media, founder of Bosstick Media, co-founder of Jetbed, Inc., co-host of the TSC podcast + much more. Lauryn and Michael are open about the struggles of working together while being married and what it takes to keep sex alive after ten years. So get ready to learn how to keep a relationship exciting (especially while working together) on Episode 820. Some Questions I Ask: What did you want in a long term partner? (7:00) What do you guys get judged for the most? (17:00) What’s the hardest thing about being married and working together? (19:00) Do you ever wish you could not be so public with everything? (27:00) Which is something you wish you were better at? (38:00) What advice would you give to a couple who wants to go into business together? (46:00) What’s the question you wish Lauryn would ask you that she hasn’t asked? (58:00) In This Episode You Will Learn: About Lauryn and Michael’s most interesting podcast guest (11:00) A fun easy way to spice up your sex life (23:00) Why Lauryn has been transparent about her plastic surgery (26:00) How to build a “strategic future by design” (47:00) How to not let outside voices affect your relationship (54:00)

BECOME AN EXPERT. Confidence is so important. But you have to earn it. If you’re confident without putting in the work, it can come off as arrogance or even insecurity. So how can you have calculated confidence? Learn from your mistakes. Put in the hours. And believe in what you’re doing. Once you’ve worked hard for your confidence, you’ll be able to look your clients in the eye knowing you’re an expert in your field. For this Five Minute Friday, I revisited a conversation I had with the hit show Million Dollar Listing’s Josh Altman where he shared what makes him one of the best realtors in the world. In This Episode You Will Learn: How to be a successful salesperson (2:05) Why you should surround yourself with a dream team (3:00) The importance of getting a mentor (4:00) The four keys to Josh’s success (5:30)

LIFE IS NOT A DRESS REHEARSAL. All of us are trying to do too many things at once. We’re on the phone while doing something else. We’re on a date but we’re distracted. We’re responding to text messages at red lights. When we live like this, we never fully experience anything. We’re half-living. It’s hard to build relationships, be joyful, and be open to opportunities when you’re not present. You may even be putting your life in danger. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I talk about the power of presence with a coach and mentor who has grounded me throughout my adult life: Chris Lee. Chris Lee has spent the last 27 years leading powerful Leadership Seminars around the world. A pioneer in emotional intelligence, Chris Lee has trained and developed people at the top of their game such as Olympic athletes, Fortune 500 Business leaders, celebrities and individuals with a desire to elevate themselves. Chris Lee also serves as a collaborator on TV and radio shows for Univision and The Fox Network. Chris says that we need to realize that life has an ending. What you’re experiencing now will soon be over- this is your one shot! By taking ownership of your life and your environment, you can stop your resentments of the past and anxiety about the future. So get ready to learn the Seven Keys to Being Present on Episode 818. Some Questions I Ask: How do we be more present? (7:00) How do we lead a more joyful life? (13:00) What’s the difference between appreciating where you’re out and realizing you want something better? (14:50) What is a lesson you’ve learned in the last six months? (36:00) What’s a lesson you still need to learn? (38:00) In This Episode You Will Learn: Seven keys to be more present (9:00) Why we stay stuck in situations we don’t want to be in (16:00) Why you need to hold other people accountable for being present (18:00) The importance of setting intentions (24:00)

YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE THE BEST. So often we feel behind. Other people have already figured out what they want. Other people got started earlier. They’re sure of the path they’re on. But that’s not necessarily a good thing. I would have never thought I’d end up where I am now. My whole life I’ve been a generalist. I’ve never been the best at anything. There was always someone bigger, faster, and stronger. But I had heart and vision, and I was willing to work just as hard. This allowed me to collect a lot of different skills. Those skills, even though they seem random, make me successful on the path I’m on now. If you take your time and follow your inspiration, you’ll end up somewhere you couldn’t have even imagined. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I talk about finding your perfect career path with an expert on fulfilling work: David Epstein. David Epstein is a New York Times bestselling author and a science and investigative reporter. He co-authored the story for Sports Illustrator that revealed Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez had used steroids. His writing has been honored by an array of organizations, from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, to the Society of Professional Journalists and the National Center on Disability and Journalism, and has been included in the Best American Science and Nature Writing anthology. David gives example after example of people who had diverse backgrounds that seemed unrelated to the thing they ended up being famous for. He says that his most important projects are things he never could have planned. So get ready to learn why setting rigid long term goals may actually hold you back on Episode 817. Some Questions I Ask: How do we know what our best skills are? (22:30) What advice would you give your son about figuring out his career? (23:30) How do we do the matching process for ourselves? (43:00) Why do we have an obsession with being the best? (57:00) How do we know when we’ve found fulfillment? (1:04:00) In This Episode You Will Learn: About the concept “skill stacking” (10:00) Why David wrote his book on generalists (11:00) About The Dark Horse Project (13:30) Why “self-regulatory learning” is the most beneficial (16:00) About the “end of history allusion” (25:00) How David uses a “book of experiments” (48:00) Why we get stuck in the rut of competence (52:00)

Harvest seeds of growth. Ending relationships is never easy. But it’s a part of life. Not all relationships last, but it’s how we end them that makes all the difference. You can use the opportunity to plant seeds that better your future, or you can plant bitter seeds that will bloom into hatred and rage. You make the decision. It is possible to consciously uncouple. For this Five Minute Friday, I revisited a conversation I had with Katherine Woodward where she explained the best way to end a relationship. Katherine Woodward Thomas, M.A., MFT is the author of the New York Times Bestseller Conscious Uncoupling: 5 Steps to Living Happily Even After, which was nominated for a Books for a Better Life Award, and the national bestseller, Calling in “The One:” 7 Weeks to Attract the Love of Your Life. She is also a licensed marriage and family therapist and teacher to thousands from all corners of the world in her virtual and in-person learning communities. Katherine teaches us to understand our feelings and gives us techniques to release them. In This Episode You Will Learn: About “affect labeling” or naming your feelings (2:00) The practice of Tonglen (3:55) How to harvest the seeds of growth that are underneath our emotions (4:30) About the concept of Karma (5:20)

WE COULD ALL USE A LITTLE MAGIC. Storytelling is an important part of everything you do. Whether you’re trying to sell something, speaking, or building relationships, you can’t ignore the power of story. It’s what causes us to have an emotional connection to something. Magic is an art form that uses storytelling. It’s not just about magic tricks. It’s about what you feel while you’re watching the trick. It’s about what the magician is telling you that changes your memory of the event. And it’s about how you take what you’re seeing and relate it to your story. How can you use the power of magic in your own life? On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I’ve combined lessons about capturing your audience from some of the greatest magicians alive: Penn Jillette, Oz Perlman, Julius Dien, Derren Brown, and Lior Suchard. Derren Brown uses magic, suggestion, psychology, misdirection and showmanship to create series and specials on stage and television. He’s won two Laurence Olivier Awards for Best Entertainment and has also written books for magicians as well as the general public. Lior Suchard is considered to be the world’s greatest mentalist. His mind-blowing performances of thought influence, miraculous prediction and startling mind reading have made him the most sought after mentalist on the planet. He entertains audiences all over the world, which have brought him a list of fans stretching from A-list Hollywood celebrities to heads of state and notorious businessmen. Born and raised in London, Julius Dein has fast become one of the world’s most recognized social media stars. Mixing together mind-blowing magic with hilarious comedy and travel culture, Julius Dein has over 20 million followers across the internet. Oz Pearlman is a world-class entertainer and one of the busiest mentalists in the country. You might recognize him from America’s Got Talent where he placed third out of thousands of acts. Oz has also appeared on a variety of both national and international networks, a few of which include NBC’s Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, The TODAY Show & ABC World News and been profiled in Forbes, The New York Times, to name but a few. When he isn’t blowing the minds of audiences around the world, Oz is an avid marathon and ultra-marathon runner. Penn Jillette is a magician, actor, musician, inventor, television personality, and best-selling author best known for his work with fellow magician Teller as half of the team Penn & Teller. The duo has been featured in numerous stage and television shows such as Penn & Teller: Fool Us, and Penn & Teller: Bullshit!, and are currently headlining in Las Vegas at The Rio. He has published eight books, including the New York Times Bestseller, God, No!: Signs You May Already Be an Atheist and Other Magical Tales. All of these amazing magicians use the same tools to draw in their audience and capture their imaginations. It’s more than impressive tricks, flashing lights, or fancy outfits. So get ready to learn how to harness the power of storytelling on Episode 815. Some Questions I Ask: What is your greatest superpower, Darren Brown? (12:35) Do you feel like you had a good childhood? (17:10) How did you learn how to tell better stories? (19:25) Does mentalism have to do more with emotional intelligence or observed behavior? (35:20) What’s the perfect person to work with as a mentalist? (36:40) In This Episode You Will Learn: Why the stories we tell ourselves restrict us (8:10) The four pillars of magic (15:00) The power of the sense of wonder (16:50) Why you need to combine your message with an emotional response (22:05) The formula for going viral (24:45) Why you should reverse engineer based on the outcome you want (30:45) The power of partnership (38:24) Why empathy is important in art (41:26) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the show notes, video and more at www.lewishowes.com/815 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes

THE HARDEST THING TO DO WHEN YOU GET OLDER IS CHANGE A HABIT. There is a Buddhist metaphor of the elephant and the rider. We are all riding an elephant. We think that we are in control. We have the reigns. But the elephant could overpower us at any moment. No matter how much we use our minds, our emotions ultimately are more powerful. This applies to the way we eat. We become slaves to our cravings and desires. Sometimes it takes something big to get back in control of our “elephant.” On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I talk about changing habits, being authentic, and what it takes to build the longest running act in Vegas with one of the world’s most famous magicians: Penn Jillette. Penn Jillette is a magician, actor, musician, inventor, television personality, and best-selling author best known for his work with fellow magician Teller as half of the team Penn & Teller. The duo has been featured in numerous stage and television shows such as Penn & Teller: Fool Us, and Penn & Teller: Bullshit!, and are currently headlining in Las Vegas at The Rio. He has published eight books, including the New York Times Bestseller, God, No!: Signs You May Already Be an Atheist and Other Magical Tales. Not many people can keep a marriage together for over forty years, let alone a working partnership. Penn is someone who shows up authentically every day. He isn’t afraid to express his thoughts and values even though they upset some people. So get ready to learn how to doubt yourself less and care about the things that matter on Episode 814. Some Questions I Ask: Why do we live in so much fear when we’re safer than ever? (8:00) What are you most proud of in the last few years? (9:00) Which of your parents is the most influential in your life? (47:00) What’s the lesson you still need to learn about yourself? (54:00) Is there anything you wish you would have done differently in the last years? (1:01:00) What is your superpower? (1:09:00) In This Episode You Will Learn: About the “mono diet” (20:00) Penn’s thoughts on religion (40:00) What makes Penn and Teller successful as a partnership (58:00) About “effective altruism” (1:13:00) How empathy makes a great magician and artist (1:19:00) If you enjoyed this episode check out the video, show notes and more at www.lewishowes.com/814 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes

WRITE YOUR STORY. Everyone has a story. You do. I do. Your life will be recorded. The question is, is your story the one that you want to be told? We often let other people write our pages instead of taking the pen and doing it ourselves. If you want your life to be a masterpiece, you’re going to have to live intentionally. For this Five Minute Friday, I revisited a conversation I had with John Maxwell where he shared the gift that inspired him to live an intentional life. John C. Maxwell is a #1 New York Times bestselling author, coach, and speaker who has sold more than 25 million books in fifty languages. In 2014 he was identified as the #1 leader in business by the American Management Association and the most influential leadership expert in the world by Business Insider and Inc. magazine. The recipient of the Mother Teresa Prize for Global Peace and Leadership from the Luminary Leadership Network, Dr. Maxwell speaks each year to Fortune 500 companies, presidents of nations, and many of the world's top business leaders. John says that in order to live intentionally, you have to bridge the gap between knowing and doing. You have to take your good intentions and act them out.

MEDITATION WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE. A lot of us are suffering, and we don’t even realize it. We’re always on the move. We’re always doing. We’re balancing so many responsibilities. We don’t take time to quiet our minds so that we can start to understand what’s going on up there. That’s why meditation is so powerful. It allows you to get to the root of your problems instead of constantly fixing the symptoms. It’s like flossing your brain. Meditation will get all “gunk” out. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I’ve combined interviews with experts on meditation: Jay Shetty, Preethaji, Krishnaji, Dan Harris, and Andy Puddacomb. Jay Shetty is a former monk who was named in the Forbes 30 Under 30 Class of 2017 for being a game-changer and influencer in the world of Media. Jay’s daily show HuffPost Live #FollowTheReader, where he interviewed the likes of Russell Brand, Tim Ferriss and Deepak Chopra reached 1 million people daily. Jay aims to share knowledge at the pace we want entertainment, something he likes to call “making wisdom go viral.” He has created content for and partnered with Snapchat, Facebook, National Geographic, Nasdaq and HuffPost to name a few. Preethaji is a modern day Indian philosopher and sage who has co-founded along with her husband Krishnaji the O&O Academy (school to revolutionize and transform human thought), World Youth Change Makers (an elite community of youth redirecting the future of the world through a revolution in consciousness), and One Humanity Care (a Foundation working with the vision to uplift 10,000 villages in India). Dan Harris is correspondent for ABC News, an anchor for Nightline and co-anchor for the weekend edition of Good Morning America. Harris encourages the use of meditation, and his "10% Happier" podcasts are interviews with other meditators. Harris' book, 10% Happier: How I Tamed the Voice in My Head, Reduced Stress Without Losing My Edge, and Found Self-Help That Really Works – a True Story, was published in March 2014. Andy Puddicombe is a meditation and mindfulness expert. An accomplished presenter and writer, Andy is the voice of all things Headspace. In his early twenties, midway through a university degree in Sports Science, Andy made the unexpected decision to travel to The Himalayas to study meditation instead. These masters explain the importance of meditation, the common misconceptions, and the science behind it all. It’s a lot more straightforward than you might think. So get ready to learn all about meditation on Episode 812. Some Questions I Ask: What’s the biggest lesson you learned from being a monk (5:45) What’s the intention you set every morning? (10:45) Why do we focus so much on suffering when it only hurts us? (21:10) What’s the importance of a spiritual vision? (22:35) Why is meditation so powerful? (24:45) Why is mindfulness meditation healing and how can we know what’s for us? (29:00) In This Episode You Will Learn: Why you need to deal with the root of the problem instead of relief of symptoms (7:00) A three-minute meditation to connect you to your emotions (13:00) How to end all suffering (20:40) About “mindfulness meditation” (28:30) Three tips for meditation (37:00)

BUILD YOUR CASTLE. Love at first sight is bullshit. A relationship is like a castle. You find a plot of land that has a lot of potential. Then, bit by bit, you build the castle. But it takes work from both of you. One person can’t be laying the bricks while the other is home watching TV. After lots of hard work, you’ll have something unique and ornate that belongs to you. You’ll have a castle. That’s love. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I talk about the key to lasting relationships with an international guru of the dating and relationship-coaching scene: Matthew Hussey. Matthew Hussey is a speaker, New York Times Bestselling author, columnist for Cosmopolitan Magazine, and dating expert on ABC’s digital series What To Text Him Back. His corporate clients include Hugo Boss, The Perfume Shop, Virgin Gyms, Procter & Gamble, Bare Escentuals, U.S. legal giant Weil Gotshal & Manges, and global management consultants Accenture. 50,000 women have attended his live events and he has reached over 10 million online. Matthew says that the “activation energy” for starting relationships is lower than ever. This causes ghosting. People are less invested in relationships. But there are ways you can meet people indirectly. So get ready to learn the three things you need to build a great relationship on Episode 811. Some Questions I Ask: Do people even want to have a committed, long term relationship? (19:00) Is a great relationship when you stop thinking about your needs and not expecting anything in return? (21:30) How do we step outside of the emotional feelings in a relationship? (25:00) When do you know you’re ready for a committed, intimate relationship? (47:00) What are the three things you need to have to sustain a relationship? (52:00) In This Episode You Will Learn: About “activation energy” and why things like Tinder make it low (10:00) Why space is important in order to not react emotionally (30:00) About the “castle” metaphor and why you need to build together (38:00) Why the “trash cans” define your relationship more than the highlights (45:00) The four stages of all relationships (1:02:30) The first step you can do to get out of the weeds of singlehood (1:11:30) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the video, show notes, and more at www.lewishowes.com/811 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes

COMMUNICATE YOUR VISION. Being an effective leader is difficult. Some do it through fear. Some do it through understanding. And others lead with love. You could be super demanding and scary and get what you want. But is that the kind of life you want to lead? Probably not. Often, leading in a way where you understand other people’s concerns will be the most beneficial to you. There’s a lot you can learn from others. Ask yourself: how can you bring people together in a way that satisfies their needs as well as your own? For this Five Minute Friday, I revisited a conversation I had with the legendary director Jon Chu where he shared how he communicates his vision on set. Jon Chu directed the films Crazy Rich Asians, Step Up 2: The Streets, Step Up 3D, and Justin Bieber: Never Say Never. Jon graduated from the USC School of Cinema-Television where he won the Princess Grace Award, the Dore Schary Award presented by the Anti-Defamation League, the Jack Nicholson directing award, and was recognized as an honoree for the IFP/West program Project: Involve. Learn how to enlist others in your vision and lead with love on Episode 805. In This Episode You Will Learn: The kind of leader Jon wants to be (1:00) The importance of synergy in creativity (1:30) The most important thing Jon has learned about communicating his vision (1:45) How to talk to people who have concerns about your vision (2:30) If you enjoyed this episode check out the show notes and more at http://lewishowes.com/810 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes.

THE LESS YOU DO THE MORE YOU CAN RECEIVE. Take a moment to explore your habits. Do you glance at your phone during every free moment? Do you fill up your calendar with things that don’t add value? Do you spend your day working on a job that has no meaning for you? If so, your life is cluttered. Not just with stuff, but with noise. Quieting down and clearing out our schedule can be scary because it means you may have the space to face some tough questions. But when you do, you’ll find you’re able to live a much more intentional life. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I explore minimalism with five experts on the subject: Cal Newport, Jesse Itzler, Joshua Fields Millburn, Rich Roll, and Chris Guillebeau. Cal Newport is a computer science professor at Georgetown University. In addition to academic research, he writes about the intersection of technology and society. He’s particularly interested in the impact of new technologies on our ability to perform productive work or lead satisfying lives. Jesse Itzler is an ultramarathon runner who is also a bestselling author, award-winning rapper, and an original partner for ZICO coconut water. He is the co-founder of Marquis Jets and a co-owner of the NBA’s Atlanta Hawks. Joshua Fields Millburn is the co-founder of The Minimalists, which has become a hugely popular podcast and lifestyle in the past few years. Joshua and his co-host help more than 20 million people live meaningful lives with less through their website, books, podcast, and films. The Minimalists have been featured in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Boston Globe, Forbes, and more. They have spoken at Harvard, Apple, and Google. Their documentary was recently released by Netflix. Rich Roll is a graduate of Stanford University and Cornell Law School, accomplished vegan ultra-endurance athlete and former entertainment attorney turned full-time wellness & plant-based nutrition advocate, popular public speaker, and inspiration to people worldwide as a transformative example of courage and healthy living. Rich became a #1 bestselling author with the publication of his inspirational memoir Finding Ultra: Rejecting Middle Age, Becoming One of the World’s Fittest Men, and Discovering Myself. Taking up where the book leaves off, in 2013 Rich launched the wildly popular Rich Roll Podcast. Chris Guillebeau is a NY Times Best Selling Author, speaker, a modern day explorer, and has been to nearly every country in the world. He is best known for The Art of Non-Conformity blog and book. He has also written guides for travel and small business topics under the brand Unconventional Guides. He organizes the annual World Domination Summit in Portland, Oregon. These five incredible teachers all have a practice of minimalism. I’ve combined key lessons from interviews with them to create a masterclass on doing less so that we can ultimately do more. So get ready to learn all about quieting down and clearing out on Episode 809. Some Questions I Ask: What was the greatest lesson you learned from Monks? (16:15) What’s the biggest personal challenge over the last few years? (32:13) If you were going to choose diet, meditation and exercise, which would you start with? (34:15) What’s the difference between a hobby and a quest? (36:39) In This Episode You Will Learn: About Cal Newport’s “30 Day Digital Declutter” (10:53) What happens when you remove your “pacifiers” (26:10) The question we should be asking ourselves but don’t (29:00) Why it can be good to have a quest (37:02) The importance of “getting in the box” (39:40) Plus much more...

WHAT DOES IT TAKE TO WIN? We can have our eyes on the prize. We can work every day to accomplish our goal. We can sacrifice and suffer to be the best. But at the end of the day, you can’t define yourself by whether or not you get “first place.” If your identity depends on one thing, you’re bound to fail. You have to free yourself from tying your worth to winning. When you do, you just might see some amazing results. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I talk about faith, family and CrossFit with the “Fittest Man On Earth:” Rich Froning. Rich Froning is a CrossFit athlete known for his achievements participating in the CrossFit Games. He became the first person to win the title of "Fittest Man on Earth" four times and has led team CrossFit Mayhem Freedom to the first-place finish three times. Froning owns and operates the affiliate gym CrossFit Mayhem, located in Cookeville, Tennessee, and is a member of the CrossFit Level 1 Seminar Staff. Rich fell off the rope the first time he competed in the CrossFit Games and got second place. He felt like a very public failure. But when he released his need to win, he became unstoppable. So get ready to learn what it takes to be an outstanding competitor, husband and father on Episode 808. Some Questions I Ask: Who did you have a deeper relationship with- mom or dad? (7:18) How did you get into CrossFit? (10:00) Did you get injured a lot when training? (20:00) How did you train your mind to prepare yourself for the whole world to take you down? (33:00) How did you handle fear throughout your career? (38:00) In This Episode You Will Learn: How Rich trained for the CrossFit Games (18:00) About the changes happening in the CrossFit Games (26:00) How Rich’s faith helped him compete (35:00) The importance of pain in daily life (41:00) About Rich’s infertility and adoption journey (48:00) The three lessons Rich has learned from his years in CrossFit (58:00) If you enjoyed this episode check out the video and show notes at http://lewishowes.com/808 and follow at instagram.com/lewishowes

FIND YOUR BIG IDEA. Anyone can craft an engaging speech. You have to start with something that drives you. Whether you’re speaking to one person or a thousand, once you find your big idea, you can continue with a few key steps that will guarantee to keep your audience wanting more. You must demonstrate that you can view the world from your listener’s perspective. Say what the consequences will be if they don’t accept your offer. And what the reward will be if they join your movement. For this Five Minute Friday, I revisit a conversation with my good friend Michael Port, who breaks down five key components of speech writing and why they work. Michael Port is a New York Times bestselling author and former professional actor having appeared in numerous films and on television. These days, Michael can be seen on MSNBC, CNBC, and PBS as an on-air expert in communication and business development and as the host of his own podcast Steal the Show with Michael Port. From creating a powerful speech to preparing for an interview, Michael assures that including these components will win your audience over. Learn how to write an incredible speech in Episode 807. In This Episode You Will Learn: What Michael means by “big idea” (1:10) Why you need to show your listener that you understand how they feel (2:16) The importance of feeling a little pain around change (3:50) How demonstrating the consequences before the reward is key (4:00) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the show notes, more at http://lewishowes.com/807, and follow me on instagram.com/lewishowes

BE THE CAPTAIN OF YOUR SHIP. As influencers, we don’t always accept that we are in control of our business. We depend on agents, our audience, or even chance to make decisions for us. But you have to get clear on your model. Reclaim your life’s agenda. Take back command of your ship. It’s the only way your business will scale. On today’s episode of The School of Greatness, I continue to explore what makes a successful career as an “influencer” with a top personal growth leader: Brendon Burchard. Brendon Burchard is a 3-time New York Times bestselling author and one of the most-watched, quoted, and followed personal development trainers in history. SUCCESS Magazine and O, The Oprah Magazine, have both named him one of the most influential leaders in personal growth and achievement. Forbes named him the world’s leading high-performance coach and Larry King named him the world’s top motivational trainer. Brendon says that you can’t worry about things being perfect, you just have to have consistency. Get out there. So get ready to learn how to master “mayhem” and “meaning” and be your own captain on Episode 806. Some Questions I Ask: What does “mayhem” mean? (1:07:00) How do influencers find “meaning?” (1:14:00) Why do influencers experience self-doubt? (1:20:30) When do you feel the most loved? (1:23:00) In This Episode You Will Learn: Why you need to care about business and building a brand (50:00) The three ways to make money without working as hard (55:00) The four aspirations everyone has (1:03:00) The moment that Brendon almost gave up (1:30:00) How to be more present (1:36:00) If you enjoyed this episode, check out the video, show notes, and more at http://www.lewishowes.com/806 and follow at instagram.com/LewisHowes