Leading Human

It is crucial that we embrace new perspectives, especially when it comes to mental health and well-being.Let's start by understanding the stigma surrounding therapy. For years, seeking professional mental health help has been shrouded in an unnecessary cloak of shame and misconception. People often feel labeled or judged, as if requiring mental health support is a sign of weakness or failure. This could not be further from the truth. Therapy is a powerful tool for insight and growth.Therapy isn't just for those in crisis. Many individuals use therapy as a means to better understand themselves, to cultivate healthier relationships, and to develop new strategies for living a balanced life. Think of it as a gym for your mental health. Just as we maintain our physical health through exercise, therapy helps maintain and improve our mental and emotional well-being.So, how do we start breaking down the barriers associated with therapy? First, it's about conversation and education. By openly discussing our experiences with therapy and mental health, we begin to normalize these discussions as a part of everyday life. Sharing stories, both of struggle and of triumph, helps educate those around us, dispelling myths and stereotypes that perpetuate the stigma.Creating a culture that supports mental health requires effort and understanding from all of us. It means being empathetic, respectful, and open-minded towards others' stories and journeys. Let's continue to challenge the misconceptions and embrace the possibilities that come with acknowledging and addressing our mental health needs.Unlock your mental and emotional wellbeing with Emma. Emma is your emotional and mental wellbeing available to everyone. You'll wonder where she's been all your life. Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify!

Shelley Prevost expresses gratitude for everyone involved in the development and use of Emma, an AI tool for mental health. She recounts the journey from initial conversations in April to the present development and the importance of her team, including Allan Davis, Chad, Chris Wilson, and Andrew Scales. Shelley outlines plans for 2025, including the launch of the Emma community feature, Inner Circles, emphasizing ethical use and care. She also shares the objective of using Emma to raise consciousness and improve mental health through daily interaction with an AI coach. Shelley invites new users to try Emma for free and provide feedback.Unlock your mental and emotional wellbeing with Emma. Emma is your emotional and mental wellbeing available to everyone. You'll wonder where she's been all your life. Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify!

Dr. Chad discusses the significance of "eureka moments" or sudden insights in coaching. Drawing on the story of the ancient Greek mathematician Archimedes, Dr. Chad explains how these moments of sudden clarity are highly valued by both coaches and clients. He explores the characteristics of such insights, including their suddenness, surprising nature, sense of certainty, associated pleasure, and the drive they create. He highlights research on the occurrence of insights during coaching sessions and the value of self-awareness. Unlock your mental and emotional wellbeing with Emma. Emma is your emotional and mental wellbeing available to everyone. You'll wonder where she's been all your life. Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify!

Dr. Chad delves into what our anxiety-related searches reveal about us. The discussion covers the multifaceted nature of anxiety, influenced by modern life's stresses like digital disruptions and geopolitical instability. We highlight the increasing prevalence of anxiety despite our efforts to be resilient. Their are a range of reasons people search for anxiety information—whether it's seeking a diagnosis, solutions, or reassurance. We present findings from a recent study showing that mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR) is as effective as the medication escitalopram. The importance of combining various approaches like therapy, coaching, and even AI chatbots to manage anxiety effectively. 00:13 Understanding Anxiety Searches00:41 The Rise of Anxiety in Modern Life02:58 Seeking Solutions for Anxiety03:47 Mindfulness vs. Medication06:07 Therapy, Coaching, and AI09:56 Exploring the Roots of Anxiety13:20 Practical Tips for Managing Anxiety15:58 Emma: Your Anxiety Companion16:48 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsLink to the cited study on MBSR. Unlock your mental and emotional wellbeing with Emma. Emma is your emotional and mental wellbeing available to everyone. You'll wonder where she's been all your life. Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify!

Today we're diving into a fascinating topic that's at the heart of understanding ourselves and others—self-awareness. Self-awareness is like holding a mirror up, not just to see what's on the surface but to understand the depths of our mind, our emotions, and our personal narrative.So, what exactly is self-awareness? In essence, it's the ability to focus on yourself and how your actions, thoughts, or emotions align—or don't—with your internal standards. It's about being able to monitor your thoughts, emotions, and behaviors.Interestingly, self-awareness has evolved as an adaptive quality in humans. Early on, it probably emerged for the purpose of survival—learning what makes us feel safe and what doesn't, understanding our responses to various situations, and modifying them for better outcomes. This evolved into the complex emotional and social awareness we see today.You might ask, why should we care about self-awareness? Well, being self-aware helps individuals make better decisions, build stronger relationships, and communicate more effectively. It enhances emotional intelligence, which is crucial for personal and professional growth.Self-aware people often exhibit certain characteristics. They're typically more mindful, they seek feedback regularly, and they're willing to consider perspectives that differ from their own. They understand their weaknesses and strengths and use this insight to their advantage.Now, you might be wondering how you can improve your self-awareness. It can be cultivated through self-reflection, keeping a journal, meditation, and seeking feedback from others. Engaging in these practices helps refine your ability to observe yourself and respond from a place of authenticity and clarity.Self-awareness is not a destination, but a journey. It's about continuously growing, learning, and adapting. As we evolve, so does our understanding of who we are and what we're capable of. Let’s strive to remain open to this ongoing process of discovery, learning not just who we are, but who we have the potential to become.Unlock your mental and emotional wellbeing with Emma. Emma is your emotional and mental wellbeing available to everyone. You'll wonder where she's been all your life. Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify!

Whether you're familiar with the concept or new to it, in this brief episode we'll delve into what coaching truly entails, its significance, and how it can be a transformative force in both personal and professional arenas.At its core, coaching is a partnership between a coach and a client, focused on achieving specific personal or professional goals. Unlike traditional teaching or lecturing, coaching is more about guiding and facilitating the client’s journey to self-discovery and empowerment. The coach serves as a catalyst for change, providing support, accountability, and a structured approach to help the client reach their potential.A coach acts as a confidant and motivator, helping clients to identify their strengths and weaknesses. They encourage clients to set realistic goals and create actionable plans. Through constructive feedback and continuous support, coaches empower their clients to overcome obstacles and measure their success by their own growth and achievement.Various types of coaching exist to cater to different needs. Life coaching, for instance, helps individuals achieve personal happiness and fulfillment. Career coaching focuses on career development and job satisfaction. Executive coaching aids leaders in enhancing their leadership skills and organizational impact. Each type of coaching, while unique, shares the common goal of guiding the client toward progress and confidence.The benefits of coaching are vast and impactful. Individuals who engage in coaching often report increased self-awareness, better stress management, a clearer vision for their future, and improved communication skills. Organizations that invest in coaching for their employees often see better teamwork, enhanced leadership, and higher overall performance.Coaching is more than just advice or therapy—it's a structured and dynamic process that facilitates personal and professional growth. Whether you’re looking to climb the corporate ladder, improve personal relationships, or simply become the best version of yourself, coaching offers a valuable pathway to achieving those aims. Unlock your mental and emotional wellbeing with Emma. Emma is your emotional and mental wellbeing available to everyone. You'll wonder where she's been all your life. Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Mentioned in this episode:Try Emma for Free Right NowGo to Emma at MyEmmaAi.com and sign up for a free trial.

Maria Ross emphasizes that true empathy is misunderstood, often confused with niceness or agreement, and instead should be about understanding and acting on others' perspectives.The Empathy Dilemma aims to support leaders in adapting to a post-pandemic world by balancing the needs of the business with those of their employees. The conversation covers five foundational pillars of effective empathetic leadership: self-awareness, self-care, clarity, decisiveness, and creating joy at work. Ross also addresses myths about empathy, including the false notion that empathy is tied to gender. Leaders need to embrace empathy to increase engagement, innovation, and collaboration in today's complex work environment.0:17 The Empathy Edge and Its Impact01:20 The Empathy Dilemma: Addressing Leadership Challenges04:10 Understanding Empathy: Myths and Realities06:25 Empathy in Leadership: Practical Applications07:23 Gender and Empathy in Leadership19:12 The Five Pillars of Empathetic Leadership24:07 Creating a Joyful Work Environment31:19 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsMaria Ross is a speaker, author, strategist, and empathy advocate. She has spoken in front of TED stages and at top conferences and companies, and she’s been featured in NPR, Entrepreneur, and Forbes. Her newly-released book, The Empathy Dilemma, is described as “refreshing” by Dan Pink and a powerful “balance of empathy and accountability” by Dorie Clark. Maria lives in Northern California where you may find her sipping red wine, doing CrossFit, or indulging in a British crime drama.Here's where you can listen to her TedTalk. Download a free chapter of The Empathy Dilemma here. Unlock your mental and emotional wellbeing with Emma. Emma is your emotional and mental wellbeing available to everyone. You'll wonder where she's been all your life. Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Mentioned in this episode:Try Emma for Free Right NowGo to Emma at MyEmmaAi.com and sign up for a free trial.

Psychologist Beth Capecchi joins the show. Dr. Beth works with adolescents and adults on a variety of issues, including self-esteem, anxiety, depression, family issues, identity work and relationship issues. She discusses her journey with ADHD, its impact on her life, and the benefits of understanding your diagnosis. She highlights the importance of self-awareness and developing personal strategies to manage ADHD symptoms over medicating yourself.Beth also explores the challenges men face in expressing emotions and the role of social media in exacerbating feelings of inadequacy. She emphasizes the value of community and support systems, noting that many people struggle with loneliness and the need for meaningful connections. Techniques like "Multiple Choice Thinking" and letter writing are recommended for therapeutic benefits.Discovering and Understanding ADHDMedication and Coping StrategiesBenefits and Pitfalls of DiagnosisSelf-Awareness and IntrospectionTherapy and Client DemographicsGender Dynamics in TherapyMen's Mental Health and CommunityTechniques and Tools in TherapySpirituality and Infinite LongingCheck out: Never Perfect with Dr. Beth Unlock your mental and emotional wellbeing with Emma. Emma is your emotional and mental wellbeing available to everyone. You'll wonder where she's been all your life. Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Mentioned in this episode:Try Emma for Free Right NowGo to Emma at MyEmmaAi.com and sign up for a free trial.

In this solo cast episode host Dr. Chad Prevost shares five steps to break free from stress patterns and embrace a more fulfilling life. Before diving into the topic, Dr. Chad celebrates his recent TED talk, 'Breath, Surrender, and Your Courageous Conversation.' The episode explores themes like reflecting on personal journals, clarifying core values, building a strong 'why,' using feedback constructively, setting aspirational goals, and taking bold actions to live with purpose. Start where your are, embrace radical optimism, and align your abilities and passions in service of others. Practical tips and real-life examples make this episode a guide to living a purpose-filled, balanced, and rewarding life.00:00 Introduction and Chad's TED Talk Announcement01:11 Reflecting on Past Journals04:19 Understanding Cortisol and Stress07:04 Step 1: Clarify Your Values11:05 Step 2: Build Your Why13:29 Step 3: Recognize the Influence of Others15:05 Step 4: Set Aspirational Goals17:34 Step 5: Live Your Purpose20:46 Conclusion and Coaching InvitationUnlock your mental and emotional wellbeing with Emma. Emma is your emotional and mental wellbeing available to everyone. You'll wonder where she's been all your life. Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify!

Chad Prevost and Christy Bonner delve into the Enneagram's embodiment aspect, exploring how different types (1-9) relate to their bodies. Christy emphasizes the importance of somatic practices like yoga and meditation for each type, highlighting specific exercises and mindsets that can help individuals connect with their bodies and emotions, ultimately leading to personal growth and healing.Christy Bonner's Background and Enneagram JourneyChristy's Enneagram Work and Personal GrowthChristy's Family Dynamics and Internal WorkThe Power of the Enneagram and Its ApplicationsEmbodiment and the EnneagramEmbodiment Practices for Every Enneagram TypeEmbodiment Practices for Body TypesEmbodiment Practices for Heart TypesEmbodiment Practices for Head TypesFinal Thoughts on Embodiment and the EnneagramChristy Bonner is a licensed marriage and family therapist, a 500 hour certified yoga instructor, a retired board certified chaplain, and a certified Enneagram teacher. Her educational background includes a Bachelor of Arts from Emory and Henry College, a Master of Divinity from Emory University, and a Doctor of Ministry from Louisville Presbyterian Theological Seminary. Christy finds meaning and purpose in her work seeing therapy clients, teaching yoga, writing for The Lookout Mountain Mirror, providing pulpit supply for local churches, and co-hosting the Enneagram+Yoga podcast. She loves to spend her free time antiquing, traveling, spending time with her husband and two kids, and connecting with family and friends. For more info about Christy check out her website: www.mindbodyandspiritcare.com or follow her on Instagram @enneagram.yogaUnlock your mental and emotional wellbeing with Emma. Emma is your emotional and mental wellbeing available to everyone. Try Emma, an AI-powered, personalized self-development platform. You'll wonder where she's been all your life. Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Mentioned in this episode:Try Emma for Free Right NowGo to Emma at MyEmmaAi.com and sign up for a free trial.

In this episode we jump right in: Shelley talks to Cameron Doody, founder of Bellhops, about the harsh realities and intense pressures of being a startup founder. They delve into the experiences of burnout, stress coping mechanisms, the high stakes of raising venture capital, and the emotional burden founders carry. Cameron shares personal anecdotes, including moments of extreme stress and the balance between critical business decisions and personal well-being. They also touch on the supportive role of investors and the need for realistic expectations in startup culture.00:00 Discussing Burnout and Stress in Founding a Company00:32 The Pressures of Venture Capital01:58 Balancing Personal Life and Business06:22 The Reality of Founding a Startup22:06 The Role of Venture Capital in Startups26:47 Mental Fitness and Coping Mechanisms31:18 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsEmma is your emotional and mental wellbeing available to everyone. Try Emma, an AI-powered, personalized self-development platform. You'll wonder where she's been all your life. Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Mentioned in this episode:Try Emma for Free Right NowGo to Emma at MyEmmaAi.com and sign up for a free trial.

Welcome to Leading Human, the podcast that explores the intersection of emotional intelligence, leadership, and the modern workplace. I'm your host, Chad Prevost, co-founder of Big Self School and co-creator of Emma—the AI-powered tool helping small teams communicate better and lead with more clarity and heart. Each episode, we bring you insights, stories, and strategies to help you and your team grow—without losing your humanity in the process.Stay present, stay human, and keep leading from the inside out!

Chad Prevost has a chat with Michael Horn about careers and life design, specifically when it comes to the desire to change jobs and how to go about the process. It involves a lot more than vaguely tuning in to your calling, or throwing out a bunch of LinkedIn applications. It may feel daunting right now, but when you listen to Michael and consider the array of input that Job Moves has to offer, you might just come away feeling encouraged and inspired to take the next step.Based on a popular Harvard Business School course and research conducted with over a thousand professionals, JOB MOVES is a guide to changing jobs and advancing your career. It’s NOT about hacking the job market and raking in lucrative offers. Instead, they argue that the most successful job seekers don’t just try to get hired; they consciously hire their next job so they can make progress in their career and life. Michael B. Horn is the co-author of JOB MOVES. He strives to create a world in which all individuals can build their passions, fulfill their potential, and live a life of purpose. He is the author of several books, including the award-winning Disrupting Class, Choosing College, Blended, and From Reopen to Reinvent. He is the cofounder of and a distinguished fellow at the Clayton Christensen Institute, a non-profit think tank, and teaches at the Harvard Graduate School of Education. Check out JOB MOVES: 9 Steps for Making Progress in Your CareerUnlock your mental and emotional wellbeing with Emma. Emma is your emotional and mental wellbeing available to everyone. Try Emma, an AI-powered, personalized self-development platform. You'll wonder where she's been all your life. Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify!

Chad Prevost gets a chance to catch up Kristina Montague who has just released her first book, documenting a movement she started a little over ten years ago. She is one of the few founders who started an angel investing fund, which focused on women-only. In fact, it's the only one of its kind in the southeast. A groundswell of women are discovering the power and purpose of angel investing. Women are reshaping the conversation in startup investing not only to open doors for other women and more diverse founders but also to consider a wider lens of companies solving problems that matter to women.We celebrate it and discuss the challenges still ahead on this episode of The Humanist.Check out Kristina's book, Jump In here.Unlock your mental and emotional wellbeing with Emma. Emma is your emotional and mental wellbeing available to everyone. Try Emma, an AI-powered, personalized self-development platform. You'll wonder where she's been all your life. Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify!

This week Chad Prevost speaks with Briana Garza. Briana left a decade of working in the healthcare industry in a job she tolerated but didn't love and shifted into food--another challenging industry in many respects, but one that aligned with her purpose and the kind of life she aspired to live. With hard work, a splash of courage, and lots of interpersonal skills, she's making it happen through the collaborative efforts of the Chatt Taste Food Tours. We discuss how she set out to design the life she leads now.Find out more about Chatt Food Tours here.Click here to reach out to Chad to book a call for workshop training or coaching, or contact him at [email protected] to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Order a copy of Chad’s book Shock Point or order an ebook here.

Chad Prevost and Justin Jones-Fosu sit down to discuss issues mainly related to communicating more effectively and openly with each other, but with a special emphasis on men. This conversation is meant to open the gates toward how we can have better conversations with one another, especially how we can be better fathers, sons, brothers, mentors, and leaders.If you only remember a few things about Justin, it’s that he loves being a dad-e and giving to educational initiatives on the continent of Africa and the country of the United States. He believes that these are more important than any accomplishments, recognition, or accolades!He is the author of Your WHY Matters NOW, The Inclusive Mindset, and his latest book I Respectfully Disagree: How to have Difficult Conversations in a Divided World challenges the reader to focus on building bridges to people rather than barriers from them.  Justin is a former HR Professional who obtained his MBA specializing in Leadership and Organizational Change and undertook further graduate studies in Human Resource Development. He has also gained valuable leadership experience with three Fortune 500 companies as well as by consulting on strategy, leadership, diversity/inclusion and organizational development. Justin was named as one of EBONY Magazines “30 Young Leaders on the Rise.”Justin's websiteJustin's TEDTalkReach out to Chad to book a call at [email protected] a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Order a copy of Chad’s book Shock Point or order an ebook here.

On this week's episode, Chad Prevost has a conversation with Ben Katt focused on Katt's recently released, The Way Home: Discovering the Hero's Journey to Wholeness at Midlife. Find out more about Ben Katt here.Click here to reach out to Chad to book a call for workshop training or coaching, or contact him at [email protected] to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Order a copy of Chad’s book Shock Point or order an ebook here.

Carter Fowler and Chad Prevost connect on how they found a home in Chattanooga, and especially how Fowler discovered unbelievable success with Totem. They may be just QA testing right now, but sales have exploded--and all from a single viral video.Totem has found a need the world over--a hardware device meant to be worn when you're going to big social events where you need to stay connected--and sometimes your devices don't work well at these huge events.He also discusses his meditation and healing practices, and how he's dealt with the early success of Totem.Tune in to this week's episode and hear the Totem story.Reach out to Chad to book a call at [email protected] a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Order a copy of Chad’s book Shock Point or order an ebook here.

Michael Thompson discusses his new book Shy by Design, which outlines 12 timeless principles for standing out quietly. He shares his journey from stuttering and shyness to embracing his imperfections and leveraging his unique qualities. Thompson highlights the importance of curiosity and authenticity, drawing from his experiences in sales and his work with clients. He emphasizes the value of living in the 90s-like pace of his current town, Palamos, and the balance between creative work and financial stability. Thompson also touches on the significance of belonging and the impact of his students' diverse backgrounds on his teaching approach.Check out Michael's Medium channel here.And check out Shy By Design here.Reach out to Chad to book a call at [email protected] a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Order a copy of Chad’s book Shock Point or order an ebook here.

The discussion today centers on David Brooks' book The Second Mountain, which explores the transition from self-interest to a moral life. Daniel Lucas, Nick McLain, James Dawson join Chad Prevost in sharing personal insights, emphasizing the importance of overcoming ego and embracing vulnerability. They highlight the challenges of the second mountain, which involves qualitative, non-quantifiable growth, and the necessity of community and empathy. The conversation also touches on the role of suffering in personal development, the shift from happiness to joy, and the impact of societal and cultural influences on individual journeys. The group also emphasizes the importance of intentional community and the transformative power of shared experiences.Join the one-day Junto Men's Retreat October 26, 2024 at Rising Fawn Gardens. Learn more and sign up here.Reach out to Chad to book a call at [email protected] a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Order a copy of Chad’s book Shock Point or order an ebook here.

It's another episode for the What Makes This Book Great?! mini-series. This time, Chad Prevost and Phil Mondy discuss Atomic Habits by James Clear, highlighting its success with over 3 million copies sold and its cultural impact. The duo explore the book's key principles, such as making habits obvious, attractive, easy, and satisfying, and breaking habits by making them invisible, unattractive, difficult, and unsatisfying. Phil shares his experiences with habit formation, including morning routines and exercise, and the importance of aligning habits with long-term goals. They also discuss the challenges of breaking bad habits, like daily drinking, and the concept of identity in behavior change. The conversation touches on the competitive nature of habit formation and the benefits of cold plunges for mental and physical well-being.Reach out to Chad to book a call at [email protected] a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Order a copy of Chad’s book Shock Point or order an ebook here.

On today's episode, Chad is visited by Charlie Moss, Richie Daigle, Chris Collins, and Matt McLelland to discuss an interesting choice: Jonathan's Krakauer's Into the Wild.Why is it an interesting choice for The Humanist? Well, on the surface it might seem like the adventure-seeking Chris McCandless's tragic story might not be the subject matter for our discussions. Yet it is when seen through the interpretive lens of life decisions, good and bad decisions, reactions and responses in compliance and against our parents. Also, in seeking "Truth" and the expression of an authentic life.Check out our rich discussion of this powerful book, and learn what makes this book great.Reach out to Chad to book a call at [email protected] a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Order a copy of Chad’s book Shock Point or order an ebook here.

For this week's episode we have return guests and friends of the show, Matt McLleland and Daniel Lucas to discuss Adam Grant's brilliant, Think Again. The discussion on Think Again highlights the book's impact and relevance, emphasizing the importance of rethinking and humility. The book, a New York Times bestseller, encourages readers to approach problems like scientists rather than politicians or salespeople. Key points include the significance of emotional intelligence (EQ) and the balance between confidence and humility in leadership. The conversation also touches on the challenges of overcoming confirmation bias, the value of constructive conflict, and the importance of self-awareness in decision-making. Personal anecdotes and real-world examples illustrate the book's practical applications.Reach out to Chad to book a call at [email protected] a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Order a copy of Chad’s book Shock Point or order an ebook here.

For this week's conversation I'm joined by friends of the show and fellow podcasters, Daniel Lucas and Richie Daigle. They generously gave of their time to dive into this big Rick Rubin book, The Creative Act--and then to join me for a wide-ranging and unscripted conversation about it.The idea for this series is to consider a book that has met several hallmarks of cultural success. Whether or not we like or love the book, we consider the features of the book and what has led to its critical and bestselling success. Spoiler alert: Usually we do like and love the books we cover. But the point is, we're not just fanboys. We're considering what the book tries to achieve and whether or not it lands. For the record, we have no affiliation with the authors and there are no affiliate links. We are here to consider these books and see how they lead us into richer territory and meaningful conversation.Reach out to Chad to book a call at [email protected] a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Order a copy of Chad’s book Shock Point or order an ebook here.

Chad Prevost and Reagan Pugh discuss their experiences as Enneagram Type Fours, exploring the challenges and opportunities of emotional intensity. They emphasize the importance of emotional awareness and self-acceptance in overcoming shame and doubt. Also dealing with personal struggles with anger as a coping mechanism. The importance of emotional intelligence and self-awareness in personal growth and relationships, emphasizing the need to recognize and address emotional issues to improve communication and overall well-being. They discuss the growing importance of emotional intelligence in leadership roles, highlighting the unique strengths of emotionally attuned leaders and the challenges of balancing emotional intelligence with the pressure to be liked and avoid conflict.Learn more about Reagan Pugh here.And check out his book, Too Emotional, here.Download our free book, Desire: How Do You Want to Feel? Finding your way to your desire requires a number of the principles we teach at the Big Self School. It requires a calm center, self-knowledge, and courage to put the ideas into practice. Whether you think you know your desires, but want to reconnect to them, or you simply have no idea, this book can help you realize your way to a deeper and more authentic connection with yourself. Desire is ultimately about how you want your feelings, experiences, and values to line up in your life. This book is only available in print in hardback, but it's yours free as our downloadable PDF.Book a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Order a copy of Chad’s book Shock Point or order an ebook here.Just plain ol' sign up for a quarterly roundup of all things happening at Big Self School, and only when a specific opportunity is available.

Chad Prevost and Chris Heuertz discuss the Enneagram, a personality typing system that aims to help individuals understand themselves and others better. Chris provides insights into its history and practical applications. They highlight its ability to help individuals understand their motivations and behaviors. They also discuss the importance of vulnerability and community in using the Enneagram effectively, and explore the overlap between psychological and spiritual practices. Later, they delve into the Enneagram's origins, symbolism, and ecumenical use across various esoteric and mystical communities. They discuss the connections between the Enneagram and personality, explore the Enneagram and Gurdjieff's work. They also delve into the concept of Enneagram wings and their impact on personal growth.More on Chris Heuertz here.Download our free book, Desire: How Do You Want to Feel? Finding your way to your desire requires a number of the principles we teach at the Big Self School. It requires a calm center, self-knowledge, and courage to put the ideas into practice. Whether you think you know your desires, but want to reconnect to them, or you simply have no idea, this book can help you realize your way to a deeper and more authentic connection with yourself. Desire is ultimately about how you want your feelings, experiences, and values to line up in your life. This book is only available in print in hardback, but it's yours free as our downloadable PDF.Book a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Order a copy of Chad’s book Shock Point or order an ebook here.Just plain ol' sign up for a quarterly roundup of all things happening at Big Self School, and only when a specific opportunity is available.

Chad Prevost and friend of the show, Matt Mclleland, discuss the significance of choice in shaping our identity and life outcomes, with a focus on self-awareness, conscious decision-making, and overcoming unconscious patterns. What is the impact of social media and technology on mental health? What are the challenges of balancing innovation with risk aversion in various industries? Whatever the answer, you need courage, authenticity, and leadership in navigating complex dynamics.High NotesOptimism, emotions, and Adlerian psychology.Self-expression, peer pressure, and individuality.Parenting, self-awareness, and the importance of opinions.Leadership values and authenticity.The power of choice in life and personal growth.Overcoming negative thoughts and building resilience through exercise and positive thinking.Gen Z mental health, social media, and parenting.Sustainability innovation and autonomous vehicles.Innovation, fear, and leadership in various industries.Download our free book, Desire: How Do You Want to Feel? Finding your way to your desire requires a number of the principles we teach at the Big Self School. It requires a calm center, self-knowledge, and courage to put the ideas into practice. Whether you think you know your desires, but want to reconnect to them, or you simply have no idea, this book can help you realize your way to a deeper and more authentic connection with yourself. Desire is ultimately about how you want your feelings, experiences, and values to line up in your life. This book is only available in print in hardback, but it's yours free as our downloadable PDF.Book a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Order a copy of Chad’s <a...

Today's conversation revolves around the importance of practicing gratitude, self-care, and radical optimism in the face of adversity. Ashley Jones shares her story of unexpectedly becoming a young parent and then navigating the diagnosis of their child, Skyler's, rare condition. Ashley tells us about our culture's comfort level with talking about grief. She also sees a great, big need for creating space for grief and healing through conversation, and highlights, among other things, the importance of self-awareness in healing. They also discuss the complexities of trauma and loss, and the need for a holistic approach to healing that addresses the physical, emotional, and mental aspects of loss. Ashley emphasizes the importance of living authentically, while still setting boundaries and embracing vulnerability.High NotesHealing, gratitude, and self-care in difficult circumstances.Grieving and navigating loss after the death of a child at a young age.Grief, loss, and finding meaning after a child's death.Grief support and healing with a nonprofit organization.Grief, healing, and emotional awareness.Personal and professional boundaries, authenticity, and trauma recovery.Living authentically, dealing with criticism, and writing a book on surviving loss.Regrets of the dying, including letting happiness, staying in touch with friends, expressing feelings, and living authentically.Find out more about Ashley and the Momento Organization here.Download our free book, Desire: How Do You Want to Feel? Finding your way to your desire requires a number of the principles we teach at the Big Self School. It requires a calm center, self-knowledge, and courage to put the ideas into practice. Whether you think you know your desires, but want to reconnect to them, or you simply have no idea, this book can help you realize your way to a deeper and more authentic connection with yourself. Desire is ultimately about how you want your feelings, experiences, and values to line up in your life. This book is only available in print in hardback, but it's yours free as our downloadable PDF.Book a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Order a copy of Chad’s book Shock Point or order an ebook here.Just plain ol' sign up for a weekly...

Chad Prevost and Frederik Pferdt discuss the importance of developing a mindset that can navigate and shape an uncertain future. Pferdt emphasizes the need to move away from fear and uncertainty and instead focus on creating a better future through radical optimism, living in the present, and embracing the unknown. They also explore the power of reframing challenges as opportunities for growth, cultivating a positive mindset, and valuing authority while cultivating a beginner's mindset. Throughout the conversation, they discuss the importance of taking proactive steps towards improvement and inspiring others to do the same.High NotesCreating a better future through radical optimism and living in the present moment.Cultivating a "Future Ready" mindset through 5 key dimensions (radical optimism, unreserved openness, compulsiveRadical optimism and how to practice it in daily life.Mindfulness, meditation, and cold water exposure for personal growth.AI experimentation and fear vs. optimism.Embracing a beginner's mindset and personal growth.Developing a positive mindset for the future.Find out more about Frederik Pferdt and his book here.Download our free book, Desire: How Do You Want to Feel? Finding your way to your desire requires a number of the principles we teach at the Big Self School. It requires a calm center, self-knowledge, and courage to put the ideas into practice. Whether you think you know your desires, but want to reconnect to them, or you simply have no idea, this book can help you realize your way to a deeper and more authentic connection with yourself. Desire is ultimately about how you want your feelings, experiences, and values to line up in your life. This book is only available in print in hardback, but it's yours free as our downloadable PDF.Book a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Order a copy of Chad’s book Shock Point or order an ebook here.Just plain ol' sign up for a weekly roundup of all things happening at Big Self School.

Chad discusses the growing pressure of stress in modern society and the need to develop mindfulness practices to manage it. He emphasizes the importance of recognizing and interrupting compulsive thinking patterns that reinforce negative emotions and emotional reactivity. Chad introduces the "stop one minute breathing space" technique to help you pause and take stock of your body, feelings, and associated thoughts, all through the lens of modern neuroscience in understanding this phenomenon.High Notes:Managing stress and emotions through mindfulness practices.How thoughts and emotions are linked, leading to patterns of emotional reactivity.The "magic quarter second" of choice before acting on impulses.Mindfulness and self-awareness practices to manage stress and anxiety.Pausing before reacting to thoughts and emotions to choose a wiser response.Mindfulness meditation can help empower individuals to slow down and respond from a more inner wise place.By focusing on breath, individuals can control their heart rate and access natural resilience and wisdom.One-minute breathing space for stress resilience.Find out more about Big Self School:Big Self School seeks to democratize wellbeing and happiness. Our methodology is rooted in science and ancient wisdom to help clients improve their outcomes and design their dream life. We are innovating the way coaching is currently practiced. We’re building a community to serve in a variety of high impact ways from coaching to in-person trainings to even using AI. Let's dream of a better future for everyone. Lead yourself first. Others will follow. bigselfschool.comDownload our free book, What Do You Expect? Discovering Methods for Deep Calm.Book a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify.Order a copy of Chad’s book Shock Point or order an ebook here.

Chad discusses the concept of stress in today's fast-paced world, exploring its impact on the human body and mind. He highlights the importance of understanding and managing stress to improve overall well-being. He presents a counterintuitive perspective that stress can be beneficial when viewed as a positive force. Later, he explores the interplay between stress and social isolation, emphasizing the importance of social support in managing stress. Embrace stress as an opportunity for connection and resilience, and develop courage in handling life's challenges with the support of others.High Notes:Stress and its impact on the body, with a focus on understanding and managing stress.Brain's stress response system and its impact on body.Relaxation techniques, physical activity, and social support for managing stress.Cortisol's effects on brain and body due to chronic stress.Stress, its effects on health, and the importance of community.Oxytocin's role in stress response and its physical benefits.Stress, resilience, and the importance of caring for others.Find out more about Big Self School:Big Self School seeks to democratize wellbeing and happiness. Our methodology is rooted in science and ancient wisdom to help clients improve their outcomes and design their dream life. We are innovating the way coaching is currently practiced. We’re building a community to serve in a variety of high impact ways from coaching to in-person trainings to even using AI. Let's dream of a better future for everyone. Lead yourself first. Others will follow. bigselfschool.comDownload our free book, What Do You Expect? Discovering Methods for Deep Calm.Book a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify.Order a copy of Chad’s book Shock Point or order an ebook here.

Chad Prevost and Chris Collins discuss the importance of building strong communities through authenticity and inclusivity. They emphasize the role of small businesses in fostering a sense of community and the need for people to feel welcomed and included. They also share personal experiences and insights on balancing parental responsibilities and personal aspirations, maintaining focus and setting structure to achieve productivity goals, and the significance of chiropractic care in identifying and resolving underlying health problems. We highlight the interconnectedness of the mind and body and the importance of prioritizing self-awareness, accountability, and community in personal growth and development.High NotesTrends in humanities and arts, with a focus on personal expression and creativity.Parenting, communication, and prioritization.Managing distractions and demands on the brain for productivity and well-being.Chiropractic care and its relationship with the nervous system and spine.Chiropractic care and its impact on nervous system function.Health coaching, stress management, and personality types.Mind-body connection, community building, and entrepreneurship.Social health, saying yes to experiences, and the benefits of ice plunges.Top 5 current fatherhood books with insights from authors.Download our free book, Desire: How Do You Want to Feel? Finding your way to your desire requires a number of the principles we teach at the Big Self School. It requires a calm center, self-knowledge, and courage to put the ideas into practice. Whether you think you know your desires, but want to reconnect to them, or you simply have no idea, this book can help you realize your way to a deeper and more authentic connection with yourself. Desire is ultimately about how you want your feelings, experiences, and values to line up in your life. This book is only available in print in hardback, but it's yours free as our downloadable PDF.Book a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Order a copy of Chad’s book Shock Point or order an ebook here.Just plain ol' sign up for a weekly roundup of all things happening at Big Self School.

Chad Prevost and John M. DeMarco discuss their paths to coaching, emphasizing the importance of building relationships, trust, and connection in their practices. They also explore the evolving nature of careers and skills, particularly among younger generations, and highlight the need for intentional training, experience, and learning agility to navigate this landscape. And what about the importance of clarity in intention, mindfulness, and coaching, and the interconnectedness of physical, emotional, and mental well-being? And how could we forget the intricate dynamics between artificial intelligence and humanity, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to AI and the importance of understanding and compassion in our interactions with others.High NotesCareer journey from writing to coaching.Career transition from ministry to coaching, emphasizing skills development and personal branding.Coaching people to clarify their intentions and set achievable goals.Mindfulness, coaching, and connecting physical and mental well-being.Self-criticism, writer's block, and the importance of intention and self-compassion.The power of intention and coaching.Balancing expertise and growth mindset in professional life.Staying human in a world of AI, focusing on empathy, strategic thinking, and soft skills.AI's impact on society, coaching, and meaning-making.Top Five and Why Most Misunderstood Conceptions about Coaching.Find out more about John M. DeMarco here.Download our free book, Desire: How Do You Want to Feel? Finding your way to your desire requires a number of the principles we teach at the Big Self School. It requires a calm center, self-knowledge, and courage to put the ideas into practice. Whether you think you know your desires, but want to reconnect to them, or you simply have no idea, this book can help you realize your way to a deeper and more authentic connection with yourself. Desire is ultimately about how you want your feelings, experiences, and values to line up in your life. This book is only available in print in hardback, but it's yours free as our downloadable PDF.Book a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Order a copy of Chad’s book Shock Point or order an ebook here.Just plain ol' <a href="https://mailchi.mp/eaaf23e94f22/newsletter" rel="noopener

Chad Prevost and Ben Albert discuss the importance of authenticity and resilience in entrepreneurship, sharing personal experiences with maintaining these qualities in the face of challenges such as burnout, financial struggles, and personal growth. They emphasize the need to be honest about one's struggles and to showcase vulnerability in marketing and storytelling, while also acknowledging the importance of self-awareness and adaptability in navigating these challenges. They also explore the challenges of balancing artistic integrity with financial success, highlighting the need for self-awareness, perseverance, and creativity in navigating these challenges.High NotesCoaching, authenticity, and marketing with a focus on personal growth and creativity.Career transitions, entrepreneurship, and mental health.Workplace burnout, authenticity, and entrepreneurship.Balancing passion and financial success in entrepreneurship.Creativity, self-awareness, and inner struggles.Authenticity in marketing, self-care, and personal growth.The power of small changes in daily habits for self-care and personal growth.Identity, persona, and growth.Embracing weaknesses and connecting people through marketing.Chad's Top 5 and Why best marketing movie picks.Find out more about Ben Albert here.Download our free book, Desire: How Do You Want to Feel? Finding your way to your desire requires a number of the principles we teach at the Big Self School. It requires a calm center, self-knowledge, and courage to put the ideas into practice. Whether you think you know your desires, but want to reconnect to them, or you simply have no idea, this book can help you realize your way to a deeper and more authentic connection with yourself. Desire is ultimately about how you want your feelings, experiences, and values to line up in your life. This book is only available in print in hardback, but it's yours free as our downloadable PDF.Book a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Order a copy of Chad’s book Shock Point or order an ebook here.Just plain ol' sign up for a weekly roundup of all things happening at Big Self School.

Chad Prevost and Charles Moss discuss their experiences in creative freelancing, sharing personal struggles with imposter syndrome and financial stability. They emphasize the importance of persistence, resilience, and community support in navigating these challenges. They also discuss their experiences in the music industry, finding a balance between creativity and financial stability. Finally, they share strategies for maintaining focus and productivity in a highly distracted world, including time-boxing and reward systems.Possible Follow Up Items:[ ] Check out Jose Saramago and Gerald Stern as examples of writers who found success later in life.[ ] Consider reading Shop Class as Soulcraft to explore the value of work.[ ] Try the productivity technique of working for 45-50 minutes then taking a 10 minute break on a completely different task.High Notes:Challenges of making a living as a writer with various publications and freelance work.The challenges of being a freelance writer, including finding time to write and balancing creative work with financial needs.Freelancing, job searching, and nonprofit work in the music industry.Freelancing, writing background, and career aspirations.Learning from struggles and finding new opportunities.The struggles of freelancing, creative writing, and balancing financial stability with personal goals.Starting writing careers later in life, with examples from Jose Saramago, Gerald Stern, and Cormac McCarthy.Creating Choose Your Own Adventure books for kids, challenges with marketing and promotion.Creative expression, failure, and market competition.Authentic living, creativity, and fulfillment.Fear, authenticity, and creativity with a focus on overcoming self-doubt and persisting in pursuing one's passionsCreativity, writing, and overcoming self-doubt.Managing distractions and staying productive while working.Choose Your Own Adventure books, highlighting top 5 favorites.Learn more about Charlie and how to connect here.Download our free book, Desire: How Do You Want to Feel? Finding your way to your desire requires a number of the principles we teach at the Big Self School. It requires a calm center, self-knowledge, and courage to put the ideas into practice. Whether you think you know your desires, but want to reconnect to them, or you simply have no idea, this book can help you realize your way to a deeper and more authentic connection with yourself. Desire is ultimately about how you want your feelings, experiences, and values to line up in your life. This book is only available in print in hardback, but it's yours free as our downloadable PDF.Book a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Order a copy of Chad’s <a...

Chad Prevost and Adam Hergenrother discuss practical approaches to personal growth and fulfillment, emphasizing the interconnectedness of outer work and inner growth. Adam shares his experiences in real estate and prioritizes both aspects of life. He explores the concept of awakening and breaking free from the cycle of self-driven desires by becoming aware of the ego and true nature of thoughts and emotions.Chad highlights the importance of maintaining a beginner's mindset and focusing on inner growth. The conversation also touches on the challenges of balancing work and spirituality, recognizing the ego's influence in leadership, and prioritizing relaxation to make informed decisions.High Notes:Finding meaning and fulfillment beyond financial success.The importance of money and living below one's means to achieve personal growth and inner peace.Money, happiness, and inner fulfillment.Finding balance between work and spirituality.Personal growth, ego, and the vastness of the universe.Spiritual awakening and recognizing the voice in one's head as a separate entity from the self.The role of ego in life, how it drives actions and decisions, and the importance of recognizing when ego is at play.Conscious leadership and emotional release in business decisions.Mindfulness practices for emotional awareness and self-awareness.Embracing difficult experiences for personal growth.More about Adam:ADAM HERGENROTHER is the Founder and CEO of Adam Hergenrother Companies, which includes KW Vermont, Livian™, BlackRock Construction, The Founder &amp; The Force Multiplier, the Hergenrother Foundation, and The 200% Life.Over the last 17 years, Adam has bootstrapped his way to building a billion dollar organization. He has built businesses, hired exceptional talent, written books, coached leaders, and more. He’s had what others call “success”—but after years of grinding in order to&nbsp;find “fulfillment,” he found himself asking, “Why has success not given me endless happiness?&nbsp;Is this all there is?“This question sparked his exploration into spirituality. What he discovered on his journey is that the material success we experience in our outer world is only half of the puzzle. We also need to tap into the other part of life that is our inner world—our highest self and who we are beyond our ego, identities and roles—to truly experience the deep fulfillment, joy, and enthusiasm that’s our birthright.Adam calls this The 200% Life.Here is the best place to learn more about his book, The 200% Life.Download our free book, Desire: How Do You Want to Feel? Finding your way to your desire requires a number of the principles we teach at the Big Self School. It requires a calm center, self-knowledge, and courage to put the ideas into practice. Whether you think you know your desires, but want to reconnect to them, or you simply have no idea, this book can help you realize your way to a deeper and more authentic connection with yourself. Desire is ultimately about how you want your feelings, experiences, and values to line up in your life. This book is only available in print in hardback, but it's yours free as our downloadable PDF.Book a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a...

Chad Prevost and Daniel Lucas discuss personal growth through ultrarunning, coping with life's challenges, and fulfillment in the digital age. They discuss the importance of resilience, mental toughness, and self-awareness in achieving success in ultra-distance running and in life.&nbsp;Daniel shares his experiences as an innovation specialist and discusses the challenges of driving innovation and growth within an organization. They explore the challenges of deep work and productivity, emphasizing the importance of setting aside distractions and focusing on meaningful work.High NotesBurnout, self-discovery through ultra-marathoning.Personal growth and self-improvement through education and ultra-running.Mental toughness and resilience in ultra-marathon running.Building mental resilience through marathon training.Using challenges to build resilience and camaraderie through ultra-distance running.Choosing to not do an ultra-marathon due to injuries and mental preparation.Personal growth through challenges and fulfillment.Personal growth and fulfillment for different generations.Parenting and personal growth.Personal growth, innovation, and leadership.Productivity, creativity, and fulfillment in work.Creating a better way to grow sprouts for commercial use.Sprouting broccoli seeds for nutrition, with coaching services offered.Download our free book, Desire: How Do You Want to Feel? Finding your way to your desire requires a number of the principles we teach at the Big Self School. It requires a calm center, self-knowledge, and courage to put the ideas into practice. Whether you think you know your desires, but want to reconnect to them, or you simply have no idea, this book can help you realize your way to a deeper and more authentic connection with yourself. Desire is ultimately about how you want your feelings, experiences, and values to line up in your life. This book is only available in print in hardback, but it's yours free as our downloadable PDF.Book a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Order a copy of Chad’s book Shock Point or order an ebook here.Just plain ol' sign up for a weekly roundup of all things happening at Big Self School.

Chad Prevost and Juan Aguinaga discuss the potential of public education to transform society through innovative approaches and collaborations. Juan shares his personal experience with a mentor, Jeremy Beard, who helped shape his belief in himself and his peers. Chad highlights the work of Chatt Prep, an all-boys public charter school in Chattanooga, Tennessee, which is achieving remarkable results through its focus on academics, data analysis, and collaboration with other schools. The conversation emphasizes the importance of mentorship, innovation, and collaboration in transforming public education and ensuring that all students receive a high-quality education.High Notes:Public charter school's success in Chattanooga, Tennessee.How teacher influenced student's love for reading and led to teaching career.Importance of struggling in school to achieve academic success.Challenges in educating communities about public charter schools.Using data to improve student performance in a charter school.Daily routine, fitness, and upcoming wedding plans.Download our free book, Desire: How Do You Want to Feel? Finding your way to your desire requires a number of the principles we teach at the Big Self School. It requires a calm center, self-knowledge, and courage to put the ideas into practice. Whether you think you know your desires, but want to reconnect to them, or you simply have no idea, this book can help you realize your way to a deeper and more authentic connection with yourself. Desire is ultimately about how you want your feelings, experiences, and values to line up in your life. This book is only available in print in hardback, but it's yours free as our downloadable PDF.Book a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Order a copy of Chad’s book Shock Point or order an ebook here.Just plain ol' sign up for a weekly roundup of all things happening at Big Self School.

Chad Prevost and Jonathan Fisher discuss the interplay between courage and heart health, exploring how fear and lack of courage can negatively impact heart health. They share personal experiences and scientific insights, highlighting the importance of acknowledging and working with fear to strengthen courage and promote better heart health. The conversation also touches on the complexities of the medical profession and the interconnected dimensions of the human heart, including physical, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects.High Notes:Healing, health, and happiness with a cardiologist.Personal struggles with academic achievement, depression, and loss.Burnout, depression, and self-care for healthcare professionals.Emotional intelligence, emotions, feelings, and moods, with a focus on the impact of misinterpreting bodily sensations on disconnection between mind and body, stress, and its effects on physical and mental health.Courage, fear, and their impact on physical health, including the connection between courage and the health of the beating heart.Mind-body connection, emotions, and heart physiology.Read Dr. Fisher's book Just One Heart to learn more about heart health from a holistic perspective.Download our free book, Desire: How Do You Want to Feel? Finding your way to your desire requires a number of the principles we teach at the Big Self School. It requires a calm center, self-knowledge, and courage to put the ideas into practice. Whether you think you know your desires, but want to reconnect to them, or you simply have no idea, this book can help you realize your way to a deeper and more authentic connection with yourself. Desire is ultimately about how you want your feelings, experiences, and values to line up in your life. This book is only available in print in hardback, but it's yours free as our downloadable PDF.Book a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify! Order a copy of Chad’s book Shock Point or order an ebook here.Just plain ol' sign up for a weekly roundup of all things happening at Big Self School.

Chad Prevost and Dale Woodfin discuss their experiences with managing creativity and focus in the digital age, sharing personal anecdotes and insights on prioritizing deep work and setting aside distractions. They also discuss the challenges of pursuing a creative career, including balancing artistic vision with financial stability, and the significance of dreams and authenticity in both art and life. Dale emphasizes the importance of trusting the creative process, paying attention to dreams, and being true to oneself.High Notes:Creativity, art, and earning a living as an artist.Songwriting, creativity, and career changes.Artistic expression, compromise, and financial stability as an emerging artist.Creativity, productivity, and setting aside time for artistic pursuits.Creativity, art, and the sources of inspiration.Art, creativity, and the relationship between artists and money.Art, creativity, and style with an artist.The importance of remembering and exploring dreams for personal growth and understanding the human condition.Art, self-expression, and breaking through judgments.Art, creativity, and personal growth.Aging and creativity in the arts.Artistic expression, creativity, and mastery.Mastery, creativity, and staying alive to possibilities.About Dale WoodfinBorn in South Pittsburg, Tennessee, where the Tennessee River whispers its secrets to the foothills of the South Cumberland mountains, Dale Woodfin found his muse not in classrooms, but in the free symphony of nature. This self-taught artist, graphic designer, poet, and musician grew up surrounded by the raw beauty of a rural landscape, dotted with historic scars and garage born experimental music in a community absent the curated galleries and night clubs. Instead, alternative music and the untamed processes of nature became his teachers.&nbsp;While Dale continues to work as a freelance graphic designer he now pours his most creative emotions and ideas onto canvas, a vibrant dance of acrylics and mixed media. Torn fragments of his digital works mingle with acrylic paint, mirroring the fractural and sometimes twisted impressions of the contemporary world. Dale Woodfin’s art isn’t just something you see, it’s something you feel, a vibrant echo of a life lived in the less familiar spaces between.Find Dale at: www.dalewoodfin.comDownload our free book, Desire: How Do You Want to Feel? Finding your way to your desire requires a number of the principles we teach at the Big Self School. It requires a calm center, self-knowledge, and courage to put the ideas into practice. Whether you think you know your desires, but want to reconnect to them, or you simply have no idea, this book can help you realize your way to a deeper and more authentic connection with yourself. Desire is ultimately about how you want your feelings, experiences, and values to line up in your life. This book is only available in print in hardback, but it's yours free as our downloadable PDF.Book a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Want to give us some love but don't know how? Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on <a...

Chad Prevost and Ben Cake explore the complexities of authenticity in various contexts, including personal relationships, marketing, and conflict resolution. They emphasize the importance of understanding the intent of others, simplifying complex ideas, and fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding. They also discuss the value of authenticity in their respective fields, while acknowledging the challenges of balancing sincerity with the need to make promises and guarantees. Throughout the conversation, they highlight the significance of embracing one's authentic self and pursuing meaningful goals in various aspects of life.High Notes:Authenticity, philosophy, and personal growth.Parenting advice, weekly struggles, and morale boosting.Life, identity, and experimentation with various careers and jobs.Identity, authenticity, and condescension in a seminary setting.Chad and Ben discuss the idea that people are not solely defined by their occupation or income level.Chad Prevost worked as a janitor at a church, experiencing condescension from an associate minister.Authenticity in marketing and coaching.Chad and Ben discuss coaching as a trusted space for self-exploration and growth, while also navigating marketing challenges.Research on authenticity highlights consistency principle, where making someone feel inconsistent can manipulate them into action.Authenticity, fear, and growth in relationships.The elusive nature of happiness in consumerist culture.The fear of being authentic and vulnerable in relationships, and how it can lead to feelings of being a burden or disappointment to others.Authenticity, surprises, and self-discovery.Ben reflects on marriage, authenticity, and self-discovery.Chad surprised himself by saying yes to cold plunging with strangers, found serendipity in nature and community.Spirituality, personal growth, and the challenges of maintaining expanded consciousness.The idea of "surrender" and "tasting the numinous" in therapies like mushroom use or other modalities, which some people see as a shortcut to expanded consciousness.The limitations of psychedelic drugs for personal growth, emphasizing the importance of consistent practice.Chad references Phil Stutz and Barry Michaels' tools as a helpful resource for personal growth through deliberate practice.Authenticity, self-awareness, and the challenges of modern life.The challenges of modern life, including the pressure to prioritize self-actualization over basic needs.The idea of living a more conscious, expanded life within the ordinariness of modern life.The importance of self-awareness and authenticity in making decisions.Chad Prevost discusses the choice between staying in a comfortable but unfulfilling life or taking risks for personal growth.Chad acknowledges the challenges and side effects of both choices, emphasizing the importance of personal growth and awareness.The concept of "no easy button" and its relation to authenticity, struggle, and creativity.Speaker reflects on the illusion of an "easy button" and the reality of ongoing struggle, even for those who appear successful.Chad Prevost and Speaker 2 discuss the concept of "fu money" and its relationship to authenticity, as explored in Sartre's philosophy.Speaker 2 suggests that wealth can lead to a false sense of security and isolationism, hindering personal growth and authenticity.Speaker 2 describes feeling grateful for recognition of their natural talent, but recognizes it may not lead to easier life.Speaker 2 finds appreciation from others for their natural abilities, but marketability remains a...

Chad Prevost explores personal growth and authenticity through various discussions, delving into the unconscious realm and examining the personal and collective unconscious, archetypes, and the hero's journey. He shares insights on navigating power dynamics and integrating conscious and unconscious aspects for personal growth. Prevost also discusses the complex relationship between individuation and personas, and the importance of acknowledging and integrating one's shadow self for personal growth and creativity. He highlights the stages of growth and provides examples of how this process can lead to greater self-awareness and authentic expression.High Notes:Jungian psychology and personal growth.Unconscious mind, archetypes, and personal growth.Jungian psychology and individuation.Persona, identity, and ego challenges in life transitions.Integrating personas and shadows for personal growth.Embracing and understanding one's "shadow side" for personal growth.Power dynamics and personal growth in the ministry and academic fields.Jungian psychology, self-awareness, and integration.Inner growth, self-awareness, and ego.Find out more about Big Self School:Big Self School seeks to democratize wellbeing and happiness. Our methodology is rooted in science and ancient wisdom to help clients improve their outcomes and design their dream life. We are innovating the way coaching is currently practiced. We’re building a community to serve in a variety of high impact ways from coaching to in-person trainings to even using AI. Let's dream of a better future for everyone. Lead yourself first. Others will follow. bigselfschool.comDownload our free book, What Do You Expect? Discovering Methods for Deep Calm.Book a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify.Order a copy of Chad’s book Shock Point or order an ebook here.

Today's conversation revolves around the role of creativity and entrepreneurship in shaping culture, the importance of belief and support in creative collaboration, and the challenges of bringing creative visions to life. Taylor Jones and Eric Brown emphasize the need for a holistic approach to culture building that prioritizes both individual and organizational well-being, and highlights the potential drawbacks of remote work while acknowledging its benefits. They also discuss the dangers of selfishness and isolation, and the value of self-awareness in avoiding burnout and recognizing one's limitations.High Notes:Creativity, entrepreneurship, and making a brighter future through a creative agency.Co-founders of whiteboard.ai discuss creative agency's origins and new book "Agency".The role of websites in making ideas real and supporting visionary leaders.Eric and Taylor discuss how they started a web design business in a dorm room and have since worked with over 500 clients, including nonprofits doing big things.Whiteboard's reputation grew as they embodied posture of belief, support in work.Creative vision and agency, challenges of bringing ideas to life.Creatives often struggle with balancing vision and hard work in pursuit of their goals.Agency and its tensions between self and others, mission and mastery.Balancing personal growth and mission in work.Tension between pursuing personal growth and collective mission/purpose.Personal ambition and its impact on work culture.The 4 quadrants of personal ambition: isolation, loneliness, vanity, and manifestation.Agency, leadership, and work culture.Self-care, creativity, and technology addiction.Eric discusses his experiences with mentoring and finding joy in helping others and sharing with struggles related to technology addiction.Agency and creativity with whiteboard co-founders.Whiteboard team hosts May Day in Chattanooga, Tennessee, for creative leaders and entrepreneurs.Show Notes:https://www.agencybook.com/maydaymayday.livehttps://www.whiteboard.is/Find out more about Big Self School:Big Self School seeks to democratize wellbeing and happiness. Our methodology is rooted in science and ancient wisdom to help clients improve their outcomes and design their dream life. We are innovating the way coaching is currently practiced. We’re building a community to serve in a variety of high impact ways from coaching to in-person trainings to even using AI. Let's dream of a better future for everyone. Lead yourself first. Others will follow. bigselfschool.comDownload our free book, What Do You Expect? Discovering Methods for Deep Calm.Book a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on Spotify.Order a copy of Chad’s <a...

Chad Prevost and friend of the show, Richie Daigle, discuss their experiences with identity and purpose, exploring the complexities of being identified by one's profession. Richie shares his struggles with being defined solely as a professional baseball player after his playing career ended, and what he did upon graduating during the economic recession of 2008. They delve into the idea that our actions and experiences offer glimpses into our character, and emphasize the importance of embracing failure as a learning opportunity. They also examine the concept of true self, recognizing the importance of acknowledging and accepting our complex and dual nature. They conclude by emphasizing the ongoing nature of self-discovery and personal growth, and the value of introspection and self-awareness in leading oneself first before attempting to lead others.High Notes:Identity, career paths, and personal growth.Richie Daigle shares his experience as a semi-pro baseball player and almost-famous person.Richie's shares his diverse work experience, including bartending, baseball lessons, and insurance sales.Self-discovery, failures, and personal growth.Chad and Richie discuss the concept of identity and how it relates to their experiences and actions.They explore the idea that our actions and experiences can reveal aspects of our identity, but are not solely defined by them.The stigma around labeling failures and the importance of exploring emotional responses.The nature of struggle and its impact on life.The idea that desire and motivation are propelled by the mystery of life and death.Chad shares a tool from Phil Stutz and Barry Michaels' book, which involves visualizing oneself on deathbed to create urgency and motivation.Embracing authenticity and living in the present moment.Emphasizing the importance of enjoying the process rather than just focusing on results.The shift from linear thinking to embracing the act of competition and enjoying the journey.Authenticity, true self, and the complexity of human nature.The concept of authenticity, and how it's difficult to define.Authenticity can be both off-putting and make others feel uncomfortable, as seen in Enneagram types and overly caring individuals.Richie questions the idea of a "true self" and the concept of removing the ego.Personal growth through self-awareness and recognizing brokenness.On leading oneself through self-awareness and disruption to uncover hidden truths about oneself.A prayer by Thomas Merton, emphasizing the importance of desire and trust in God's guidance.The idea of recognizing and embracing one's brokenness as a means of growth and learning.Find out more about Big Self School:Big Self School seeks to democratize wellbeing and happiness. Our methodology is rooted in science and ancient wisdom to help clients improve their outcomes and design their dream life. We are innovating the way coaching is currently practiced. We’re building a community to serve in a variety of high impact ways from coaching to in-person trainings to even using AI. Let's dream of a better future for everyone. Lead yourself first. Others will follow. bigselfschool.comDownload our free book, What Do You Expect? Discovering Methods for Deep Calm.Book a discovery call for <a href="https://coachingcompany90341.hbportal.co/schedule/6307e324cc33a90f6cd8f41d" rel="noopener...

Chad recounts his terrifying experience during a whitewater rafting trip. What is the difference between giving up and surrendering when it comes to how we live our (extra)ordinary lives?Tune in and find out. You'll be glad that Chad lived and what you can takeaway from his harrowing experience. High Notes:The concept of surrender and letting go. Surrender and giving up, with personal stories of loss and grief.Drowning experience, thoughts of mortality, and a miraculous escape.Near-death experience and surrendering to fate.Facing and overcoming fears through mindfulness and self-reflection. Find out more about Big Self School:Big Self School seeks to democratize wellbeing and happiness. Our methodology is rooted in science and ancient wisdom to help clients improve their outcomes and design their dream life. We are innovating the way coaching is currently practiced. We’re building a community to serve in a variety of high impact ways from coaching to in-person trainings to even using AI. Let's dream of a better future for everyone. Lead yourself first. Others will follow. bigselfschool.comDownload our free book, What Do You Expect? Discovering Methods for Deep Calm.Learn more about the May 11, 2024 event: Men's Mental Health MattersBrandon Clift from The ManKind Project&nbsp;and Men Who Chatt - Community For Chattanooga Men,&nbsp;Sydney Guerrette from Be The Change Youth Initiative&nbsp;and @James Woods from Dads Making a Difference - A First Things First Program.Register here.Book a discovery call for coaching or workshop trainings here.Leave us a review and subscribe on Apple iTunes or Subscribe on <a...

Today's conversation centers around the importance of addressing stigmas associated with men's mental health and the need for supportive resources and community engagement. Chad and friend of the show, James Dawson, emphasize the interconnectedness of mental health and wellness, and share their experiences with men's mental health retreats and breathwork practices. They discuss the evolution of masculinity and the need for men to reconnect with emotions and vulnerability, and highlight the importance of creating safe spaces for this reconnection to occur.High Notes:Mental health and healing through reconnection with oneself and ancestors.James' experience at a men's mental health retreat, highlighting the importance of addressing underlying issues.Intentional gathering, emphasizing the importance of gratitude and ancestral connection.Men's retreat with breathwork, Tai Chi, and meditation.The leaders of the retreat emphasized that they were not a religious group, but the breathwork and meditations addressed the spiritual realm.James describes experiencing a profound spiritual transformation during a 30-minute breathwork session in sensory deprivation, including leaving their physical body and experiencing a death and rebirth process.The power of collective breathwork in a group setting, imagining a camera that could capture their collective breath and the transformative experiences that occurred.Tai Chi and breathwork retreat that focused on inviting participants to move their energy and attention towards their heart, rather than just their mind or body.Men's healing and growth through meditation and connection.Doing cold plunges every morning, feeling resilient and empowered after facing the pain of the cold water.Reconnecting with inner child through ancestral meditation and journaling.James's app, H E A R E, offers daily check-ins, weekly meditations, and ongoing support for men's healing and growth.Men's emotional intelligence and reconnection.Men's groups for personal growth and connection, and the emotional intelligence, vulnerability, and the political climate.The importance of reconnecting with one's inner self and exploring the divine masculine and feminine archetypes.The group shares personal experiences and insights on how to create a more connected and vulnerable atmosphere for men, free from toxic masculinity.Confronting pain and trauma for personal growth.New research on the impact of beliefs on stress, suggesting that recognizing the potential good in stress can lead to positive bodily changes.James shares their belief that confronting challenges leads to growth and regeneration.Chad agrees, citing the pandemic and shift to remote work as contributing factors.Masculinity, comfort, and the importance of vulnerability.The hosts discuss the importance of examining our defense mechanisms and projecting archetypes in order to heal and grow, rather than simply perpetuating societal norms.The limitations of traditional masculinity ideals and the importance of empathy and love.Burgers in Chattanooga, Tennessee, with recommendations and insights. Find out more about Big Self School:Big Self School seeks to democratize wellbeing and happiness. Our methodology is rooted in science and ancient wisdom to help clients improve their outcomes and design their dream life. We are innovating the way coaching is currently practiced. We’re building a community to serve in a variety of high impact ways from coaching to in-person trainings to even using AI. Let's dream of a better future for everyone. Lead yourself first. Others will follow. <a href="http://bigselfschool.com/" rel="noopener...

Chad Prevost and James Dawson discuss their experiences with burnout in startup culture, emphasizing the importance of self-care and setting realistic expectations. They also explore the intersection of neuroscience and personal growth, and share their personal experiences with cold water plunging. The conversation highlights the role of perspective and gratitude in shaping our experiences and relationships, and emphasizes the need for earned dopamine in avoiding burnout and building successful startups.High Notes:Entrepreneurship, burnout, and self-awareness.James Dawson reflects on his entrepreneurial journey, from granola subscriptions to tech startup.Early 20s startup journey.Struggles with self-shame and feeling like you're not good enough.Burnout in the startup world and how understanding work types can prevent it.The evolution of psychology and mental health awareness, from Freud and Jung to current trends in Gen Z and millennials.Safe spaces for venting and letting out emotions, as well as the limitations of past therapeutic methods.Despite neglecting his own well-being, James succeeded in launching a cashflow-positive business from a napkin note, with a team of 10-15 people.Burnout, productivity, and self-care strategies.Chad Prevost and James discuss burnout and the need for strength-based leadership, emphasizing the importance of earning dopamine through meaningful work rather than relying on fake dopamine from media.The idea of moving towards discomfort and how it can help alleviate pain.James shares their personal experience with cold water therapy and how it helped take away their burnout-related pain.The benefits of cold water plunging and reframing pain as a necessary part of growth.Doing cold water plunges for over a year, consistently in winter.Pain is a signal to address root issues, rather than avoid it.Personal growth, trauma, and self-talk with a focus on ice plunging and breathwork.Emotional pain rooted in self-relationship, seeking self-improvement.Adler and Kahneman agree: trauma shapes our memories and stories.Self-care and positive self-talk to overcome trauma.Cold plunging, gratitude, and authenticity.James shares their personal experience with cold plunging and its benefits for mental health, community, and personal growth.Chad reflects on his initial hesitation to participate in cold plunging but ultimately found value in the experience, including community, nature, and confronting limiting beliefs.The power of gratitude and its opposite, letting go, in a cold water challenge.The practice of gratitude is inspired by Wim Hof and involves naming what one is thankful for and letting go of something unwanted.Find out more about Big Self School:Big Self School seeks to democratize wellbeing and happiness. Our methodology is rooted in science and ancient wisdom to help clients improve their outcomes and design their dream life. We are innovating the way coaching is currently practiced. We’re building a community to serve in a variety of high impact ways from coaching to in-person trainings to even using AI. Let's dream of a better future for everyone. Lead yourself first. Others will follow. bigselfschool.comDownload our free book, What Do You Expect? Discovering Methods for Deep Calm.Learn more about the May 11, 2024 event: Men's Mental Health MattersBrandon Clift from<a...

This episode's conversation revolves around the themes of creativity, vulnerability, and personal growth. Genesis emphasized the importance of practicing vulnerability in creative endeavors, and with Chad Prevost and Ben Cake, they discussed the need for radical new ways to understand and practice humanism. This includes sharing experiences with embracing risk and failure, and the importance of staying open-minded and connected to the world around them to maintain a genuine and fulfilling creative practice. They also reflect on the nature of fear and how overcoming it can lead to new adventures and experiences.Genesis the Greykid is a fine artist/creative that has sold artwork all over the country and internationally. His passions are people, places, and memory....and feels the best way to speak of this love, is through his gift with art and poetry. He's worked with some of the most talented creatives in the world and hopes to continue doing this the rest of his life.&nbsp;Top Shelf Ideas:Vulnerability, creativity, and ego in art and life.Vulnerability and authenticity in life and conversation.Genesis shares insights on creativity, fulfillment, and his new restaurant venture.Tthe importance of leaving space for other perspectives, avoiding the mistake of assuming everyone thinks alike.Art and personal growth through pain and relationships.Chad discusses how people interpret their art, sometimes without their input.The collaboration and interpretation of their work by others.On values empathy and connection, sharing personal stories of grief and growth.Creativity, isolation, and artistic expression.Genesis discusses isolating himself for almost a year in New York, feeling the need to focus on his work and ideas without distractions.On the desire to be vulnerable and open about personal struggles in poetry workshops and mediums.Unexpected connections and sales, highlighting the importance of trusting one's artistic vision.Letting his unique style and personality shine through in his interactions with others, leading to meaningful relationships and art sales.Creativity, relationships, and money with an artist.The importance of process in creativity, worrying that technology shortcuts may deprive artists of the necessary time and effort to develop their skills and ideas.Genesis's fluid relationship with writing, which has become an extension of their body and mind, allowing him to create without needing to be alone or around people.Relationship with money has shifted since achieving commercial success, with mentors helping to reframe perspective.The philosophy of money and creative freedom.Money is not real, and creative freedom is key to success.Creative confidence through spirituality and taking risks.Art, business, and authenticity.The intersection of art and business, finding beauty in the dance of commerce.Building a business with a focus on authenticity and enjoyment.Creativity, selflessness, and success as an artist.Personal insights on creativity, spirituality, and pushback from others.Invoking the muse and pleasing God through creativity and selflessness.Insights on letting go of pride and success to move forward in life.Reflections on the shelf life of success and creative ideas, wondering if holding onto past accomplishments can hinder growth.The importance of tapping into the "flow" or "zeitgeist" in their creative work, finding inspiration both...

The central focus of the first month's theme for The Humanist is understanding Authenticity. Why? Partly because the title of the podcast almost featured authenticity in the first place. Partly because authenticity seems to be having "a moment" culturally, and we aim to find out what's going on: How authentic is authenticity really when it comes to ways it's used an understood?Chad Prevost and Ben Cake discuss the creative process and flow states, emphasizing the importance of embracing the unknown and not over-strategizing. They also explore the concept of compromise in relation to living an authentic life, highlighting the need for individualized metrics and prioritizing self-awareness and sustainability in personal growth. Later, they discuss the challenges of balancing creative aspirations with practical considerations, emphasizing the importance of setting terms with oneself about what success looks like and embracing a creative life without compromise or shame. They also address the fear of failure and pressure to constantly produce content.SummaryCreativity, flow states, and the source of inspiration.Chad Prevost and guest discuss creativity as a vehicle for a higher power, drawing on Rick Rubin and Elizabeth Gilbert's ideas.Ben Cake experiences flow state when nearing project completion, feeling momentum and possibility.Compromise and taking one for the team, with insights on self-doubt and fantasies.Ben discusses compromises made in pursuit of authentic life, framing them as pragmatic decisions rather than losses of faith.The importance of framing compromises in a way that reduces shame and increases positive outcomes.The idea of "taking one for the team" and how it can be a form of self-sabotage, where individuals prioritize the needs of others over their own goals.Examine your own stories and decisions, and to ask if you are holding yourself back from pursuing your true desires.Living a creative life, overcoming fear and shame, and finding sustainability through self-care and personal growth.Chad discusses living a creative life without compromise, experimentation, and freedom to try new things.Ben argues that setting terms with oneself about success can limit creativity, leading to a different definition of success.The importance of living a fulfilling life, and the need for sustainability and balance in daily activities.Ben describes an ideal day, including self-care, family time, intellectual conversations, and a business meeting, highlighting the importance of nurturing various aspects of oneself.Creativity, authenticity, and overcoming fear and shame in the creative process.The importance of authenticity in personal growth and transformation coaching.Chad discusses how creating an intentional creative life can lead to positive results, but acknowledges the potential for idealized metrics.The importance of taking action and showing up to create opportunities for success.Stop overthinking and debating, and instead, start doing something to manifest luck and success.Embracing discomfort and overcoming shame and fear in creative pursuits.Find out more about Big Self School:Big Self School seeks to democratize wellbeing and happiness. Our methodology is rooted in science and ancient wisdom to help clients improve their outcomes and design their dream life. We are innovating the way coaching is currently practiced. We’re building a community to serve in a variety of high impact ways from coaching to in-person trainings to even using AI. Let's dream of a better future for everyone. Lead yourself first. Others will follow. bigselfschool.comDownload our free workbook,...

The central focus of the first month's theme for The Humanist is understanding Authenticity. Why? Partly because the title of the podcast almost featured authenticity in the first place. Partly because authenticity seems to be having "a moment" culturally, and we aim to find out what's going on: How authentic is authenticity really when it comes to ways it's used an understood?Chad Prevost and Ben Cake discuss the challenges of maintaining authenticity in creative pursuits and leadership roles. They explore how advertising and marketing can perpetuate idealized versions of life, and the impact of judgment from others on one's creative identity. They also discuss the balance between artistic integrity and commercial success, using examples from various art forms. They explore the importance of living authentically and being willing to make changes to ensure satisfaction in one's creative pursuits.In the end, they don't arrive at hard conclusions, but the discussion itself does seem valuable. Authenticity, creativity, and snapshots in life.Ben Cake discusses authenticity, creativity, and the struggle to stay engaged with life.Speaker discusses how snapshots can be harmful, leading to unrealistic expectations and suffering.Exploring and acknowledging snapshots can help improve self-awareness and authenticity.Leadership, self-awareness, and the importance of following one's passions.Chad and Ben discuss the importance of leading oneself before leading others.Rick Rubin's success was due to luck and not planning.The value of persistence in creative fields despite lack of recognition or financial success.Chad admires writers who persist in publishing despite lack of recognition.Chad and Ben discuss the concept of mastery in writing and the challenges of achieving it.Ben argues that pursuing expertise can lead to a paradox where one becomes so focused on pleasing a narrow audience that they neglect to appeal to a broader one.Chad suggests that artists may feel sad or frustrated when they pour their heart and soul into their work, only to find that it goes unappreciated or unnoticed by a wider audience.Creativity, ambition, and judgment from others.The idea of commitment to art and family, and admiration for authors who commit to their craft despite potential regrets.On judgment from others and its impact on authenticity.Creative identity, authenticity, and career changes.On peaking early in their career and the challenges that come with it.The impact of criticism on one's self-narrative and identity.Find out more about Big Self School:Discover the transformative power of Big Self School, where personal growth meets professional development. Unlock your full potential and achieve your wildest dreams through our innovative courses, workshops, and coaching programs. Led by industry experts and thought leaders, Big Self School empowers you to break free from limiting beliefs, cultivate a growth mindset, and become the architect of your own success. Whether you're an entrepreneur, executive, or simply seeking to live your best life, Big Self School provides the tools, strategies, and support you need to thrive. Join our vibrant community of like-minded individuals and experience the life-changing impact of investing in your personal and professional growth with Big Self School.Book a discovery call hereOrder a copy of Chad’s <a...