811: Tap into the Michelangelo Mindset and Get What You Want by Subtraction with Dr. Mark Goulston

Dr. Mark Goulston is a renowned psychiatrist, author, and podcast host. He is the co-author of 9 books, including the top book on listening in the world, "Just Listen." Dr. Goulston also hosts the "My Wake Up Call" podcast, where he interviews influential guests. Today, Dr. Goulston discusses the "Michelangelo Mindset," which he describes as the "apple of personal and professional development." He explains how this mindset, inspired by Michelangelo's sculpting process, can help individuals and businesses carve away everything that isn't serving them to realize their true potential and success. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wndFkpPfvgM In this episode of Marketer of the Day, Dr. Goulston explains the Michelangelo Mindset and its applications in marketing, leadership, and communication. He emphasizes listening for what people truly want rather than pushing one’s own agenda, using the metaphor of sculpting David by removing everything that isn’t essential. He shares practical strategies for pitching investors, engaging customers, and attracting top talent, highlighting the importance of triggering “Wow” moments, reducing clutter, and focusing on immediate, actionable value. His work includes coaching startups through an international accelerator, as well as sharing insights from his books, public speaking, and online resources at MichelangeloMindset.com and LinkedIn. Quotes “Inside every customer is someone who wants to buy—don’t sell them; inside every investor is someone who wants to give—don’t push, just sculpt away everything that isn’t essential.” “Focus on what people are listening for, not what you want to say; when you give them what they’re looking for, they give you their mind for an hour.” “Wow, yes moments break through clutter—they make people pay attention, act, and remember you.” “The Michelangelo Mindset is about carving away everything that isn’t serving the result you want, whether it’s in business, relationships, or personal growth.” Resources Follow Dr. Mark Goulston on Facebook Connect with Dr. Mark Goulston on LinkedIn Subscribe to My Wakeup Call with Dr. Mark Goulston on Apple Podcasts Browse Dr. Mark Goulston's Published Books on Amazon