Best Azhelle Wade | The Toy Coach Podcasts (2025)

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#289: The TCA Journey Behind a Toy Empowering Kids to Choose Kindness with Jana Hallam 23:38

Play Pause

19h ago23:38

23:38

A toy doesn’t need to be loud or flashy to leave a lasting impact. The most meaningful ones teach kindness, spark empathy, and build something real in a child’s heart. That belief is what led today’s guest to create a toy that’s about so much more than play. In this special replay episode, we’re passing the mic to guest host Virginia Lette, who sit…

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459 - Brené Brown On How To Be Your Most Brave & Courageous Self 31:03

2d ago31:03

31:03

By Marie Forleo

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#288: How an Industry Veteran Rebuilt His Toy Knowledge Through TCA with Gerardo Davila 27:25

9d ago27:25

27:25

Every once in a while, I meet a toypreneur whose journey reminds me why I started this podcast… and today’s guest is one of those people. In this episode, we’re bringing back the story of a Toy Creators Academy grad who went from leading sales at Mattel to launching a heartfelt plush brand that’s changing bedtime for kids everywhere. Meet Gerardo D…

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458 - Matthew McConaughey's Success Tips Will Change Your Life 51:20

10d ago51:20

51:20

Get your in-person or virtual tickets for "How to Lose Your Mind with Marie Forleo & Josh Pais." --> https://marieforleo.com/london Want MORE from your life? Today, the iconic Matthew McConaughey is on #MarieTV to share his secret to finding your frequency and getting in rhythm with life. So you can stop settling and create massive success — on you…

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#287: Looking Back at a TCA Alum’s Journey as a Game Designer with Chrissy Fagerholt 20:00

16d ago20:00

20:00

You know I love celebrating a toypreneur's full-circle moment and today’s episode is just that. We're revisiting the incredible journey of TCA alum Chrissy Fagerholt of EAP Toys and Games, from her very first appearance on this podcast to her latest game launch and ongoing success in self-publishing. This episode is a special highlight reel of Chri…

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457 - DELETE Your Old Self! – Watch THIS to Attract Abundance & Win at Life 1:01:07

17d ago1:01:07

1:01:07

Ever feel stuck in the same loop — making the same mistakes, doubting yourself, or overthinking everything? In this powerful conversation, Marie sits down with her longtime partner Josh Pais to share the tools from his new book Lose Your Mind: The Path to Creative Invincibility. You’ll learn how to stop suppressing emotions, overcome fear, and use …

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#286: 3 Surprising Ways To Use AI To Save Money In Your Toy Business 32:13

23d ago32:13

32:13

Toy people, I see you. You’re trying to run your business, deal with tariffs, build your brand, pitch your ideas, and maybe even answer customer questions at 3AM. But what if I told you that AI could actually help you make the most out of your time and money as you build your toy business? In this episode of Making It in The Toy Industry, I’m break…

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456 - Laura Vanderkam On Time Freedom Habits From The World’s Most Successful People 29:03

24d ago29:03

29:03

Ready to opt OUT of overwhelm once and for all? Save your seat here to my free masterclass here → http://jointimegenius.com/freetraining Laura Vanderkam has a powerful message: You can be more productive AND less stressed at the same time. In this interview, she discusses her book, “Off the Clock,” and how you can take control of your time to be mo…

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#285: TCA Accelerator Coaching Call with Michael Harring 1:03:09

30d ago1:03:09

1:03:09

Should you launch your toy on Kickstarter? That’s the question that we’re going to explore today. TCA alumni Michael Harring, launched Wayward Ghouls and his line of Squeaks toys on Kickstarter as what he says is “just a test.” With the goal of $49,000, Michael’s almost at 50% with a $19,000 pledge but he shared in our interview that for some reaso…

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455 - Elizabeth Gilbert: Women Only Learn THIS Too Late — The Secret to Money, Success & Purpose 1:13:25

1M ago1:13:25

1:13:25

What happens when love becomes addiction and life completely breaks you open? In this raw conversation, Elizabeth Gilbert shares her journey through grief, codependency, and recovery - revealing how our most devastating experiences can become our greatest teachers. You'll learn the difference between healing and fixing, why familiar pain often feel…

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#284: What the End of De Minimis Means for Toy Creators 36:00

1M ago36:00

36:00

For years, international toy sellers had a semi-secret shortcut to ship goods under $800 tariff free. That shortcut? Gone. And if you’re not prepared, your business could feel it fast. As of August 29th, the De Minimis Exemption was officially eliminated for many international shipments to the U.S. The change, quietly confirmed by U.S. Customs and …

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454 - How I Manage My Time – 5 Tips To Win At Anything In Life 16:52

1M ago16:52

16:52

Ever wish you had more hours in the day? Discover the surprising habit that's been secretly sabotaging your productivity, and how to reverse it. Plus, my top 5 tips for mastering your time, achieving big goals, and making your dreams a reality -- WITHOUT stress, overwhelm, or burnout. Ready to opt OUT of overwhelm once and for all? Save your seat h…

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#283: 3 Costly Mistakes That Toy Creators Make with Factories 27:35

1M ago27:35

27:35

I’ll never forget the time I asked a factory to “just move the pen and scissors down a little” on a packaging layout. What came back? A sample where the entire arrangement was totally rearranged and the design I’d worked so hard on was completely off. Communicating with factories is one of the most exciting parts of the toy-making journey, but one …

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453 - Never Enough Time? This Genius Strategy Will Turn You Into a Time Multimillionaire! 7:38

1M ago7:38

7:38

If you ever catch yourself thinking, “There’s just never enough time!” — listen up. A few years back, I discovered a little magic trick that almost instantly, can turn you into a TIME MULTIMILLIONAIRE. Whether it's launching your dream project, getting in the best shape of your life, or writing that novel you keep talking about — by the end of this…

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#282: Why Toy Companies Are Switching to Manufacturing in India with Joshua Punin 49:03

2M ago49:03

49:03

Even with the recent increased tariffs on India, many of my clients and students have been seeking out new factory partnerships in this country. For decades, China has been the go-to destination for toy production, and they are indisputably the best at producing high quality goods quickly, but what happens when rising costs, shipping delays, and sh…

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452 - Why Everything You Know About Success & Productivity Is Wrong | Seth Godin 54:50

2M ago54:50

54:50

Seth Godin shatters the biggest lies about productivity, business, and the self-help industry that are keeping you stuck. Discover why your morning routine isn't working, the "authenticity" trap you're falling into, and how to build massive success without social media. WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS EPISODE: 0:00 - 3 steps to achieve your dreams 3:00 - Wh…

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#281: TCA Accelerator Coaching Call with Carrie Shaked 59:47

2M ago59:47

59:47

Building forts is a rite of passage for most kids and often the bane of organized parents. I can still picture my mom, coming home late from running her business, to find chairs flipped sideways, blankets draped across them, boxes forming doorways, and my brother and I, tucked away inside playing. It was 100% an eyesore to my parents and 1000% a sa…

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451 - Communication Coach to Billionaires: “How to Speak Like the 1%” – Get Anything You Want 1:10:41

2M ago1:10:41

1:10:41

Feel awkward in interviews or freeze up when the spotlight hits? Emmy-winning journalist and communication coach Bill McGowan reveals the biggest mistakes even top performers make—and how you can avoid them. Learn how to speak memorably, redirect tough questions with grace, and deliver your message with clarity and confidence every time. Bill McGow…

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#280: TCA Accelerator Coaching Call with Courtney Smithee 44:13

2M ago44:13

44:13

Ever wondered why all baby toys are so bright and loud? all primary and neon colors? Aesthetic-focused moms are craving a change. In this episode of Making It in The Toy Industry, I’m bringing you a powerful coaching session that spotlights someone who's filling that market opportunity. Playcor is a brand on a mission to make toys that look as beau…

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#279: TCA Accelerator Coaching Call with Kieche O’Connell 52:36

2M ago52:36

52:36

The most innovative toy ideas I’ve ever seen come from people outside the toy industry. When I met Dr. Kieche O’Connell, the creator of Catoms, I was completely blown away. She found a way to merge her love of science and the periodic table into a collectible plush toy line. Kieche’s deep understanding of chemistry and the unique traits of each ele…

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450 - America's #1 MEDIUM: Signs You're IGNORING Your Psychic Voice & How to UNLOCK It 1:24:07

2M ago1:24:07

1:24:07

Feeling stuck of off track? Psychic medium Matt Fraser reveals the hidden signs that you're out of alignment with your soul's purpose. Discover how to reconnect with your inner guidance, understand your spiritual team, and avoid the biggest regrets from the other side. Matt Fraser is America's Top Psychic Medium, a New York Times Bestselling author…

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#278: TCA Accelerator Coaching Call with Manish Punwani 53:25

3M ago53:25

53:25

Ever feel like your toy or game idea is too niche or catch yourself wondering if you’ve really got what it takes to break into the industry? Maybe you’ve been sitting on a killer concept, or you’re already knee-deep in prototypes and second guesses. In this episode of Making It in the Toy Industry, I’m chatting with TCA alum and current Accelerator…

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#277: Game Pitching Tips From a Toy Industry Insider with Tanya Thompson 1:04:42

3M ago1:04:42

1:04:42

Have you ever had a game idea pop into your head and thought, “This could be huge… but how do I even pitch it?” Or maybe you’ve been sitting on a finished prototype, wondering if it’s really “good enough” to get in front of a big toy company. If you’ve been dreaming of turning your game concept into a real product on shelves, this episode is made f…

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449 - How to Unlock Your Creativity with Tina Wells 30:37

3M ago30:37

30:37

Tina Wells wrote six books in three years. How does she write so consistently? And more importantly, how can you? Listen now to learn why process matters more than talent, how to make time for personal projects, and the one thing every successful writer needs. Plus, you’ll get the writing prompt Tina always uses to get her words flowing. Thanks for…

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#276: TCA Accelerator Coaching Call with Joanna of Fren Forest 43:38

3M ago43:38

43:38

If you've ever wished you could sit in on a real coaching call inside Toy Creators Academy, today’s your lucky day. This episode is part of a special behind-the-scenes series where I bring you inside the TCA Accelerator for a one-on-one strategy session with Joanna, the creator of Fren Forest. Joanna is a sculptural artist with a love for cozy char…

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448 - How to Stop Feeling Lost & Discover Your Unique Purpose with Jim Murphy 56:45

3M ago56:45

56:45

What if winning in life meant more than just trophies and titles? In this inspiring episode, performance coach Jim Murphy reveals the powerful mindset shift that helped his world-class clients find peace, purpose, and record-breaking success. Whether you're an athlete, executive, or everyday high-achiever, this conversation will change how you thin…

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447 - This Netflix Co-Founder Turned His Idea Into A Company Worth Over $100 Billion | Marc Randolph 49:25

3M ago49:25

49:25

They told him it would never work. But Netflix co-founder Marc Randolph trusted his gut — and turned his “crazy” idea into a 100 billion dollar company anyway. Now, with more than 40 years in business and 7 successful start-ups under his belt, Marc’s sharing his insider secrets with you. Listen now and learn the Netflix Secret to turn your ideas in…

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#275: 3 Unmissable Lessons to Turn Your Hobby Into a Hit Game 17:35

4M ago17:35

17:35

Can your hobby become the next best selling board game? If you’ve ever wondered how to turn your weekend hobby into something magical and marketable, this episode is your cheat sheet. In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, I’m unpacking the gold that Elizabeth Hargrave, the brilliant mind behind Wingspan, dropped in our conversation from…

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446 - Cash In On Your Creative Ideas with Multi-Million Dollar Toy Inventor Azhelle Wade 25:43

4M ago25:43

25:43

Multi-million dollar toy creator Azhelle Wade shares the pricing, pitching, and strategy secrets to turn your weirdest ideas into best-selling products. Thanks for listening! New episodes drop every Tuesday. Make sure you hit the follow button to get notified. <3 COME SAY ‘HI!’ Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/marieforleo Tiktok: https://www.tik…

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#274: Turn Your Hobby Into a Best-Selling Board Game with Elizabeth Hargrave 47:26

4M ago47:26

47:26

What are your hobbies? I personally enjoy dance, specifically latin dance and often I wonder, “What if I could translate salsa dancing into a toy or game?”. Well today, we’re going to explore that possibility. Today my guest shares how she turned her hobby into a best selling board game! In this episode of Making It in the Toy Industry, I’m joined …

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445 - The Secrets of Happiness & Longevity: Dan Buettner discusses Blue Zones 30:36

4M ago30:36

30:36

Looking for the secret of happiness? Interested in the science of longevity? Dan Buettner is the man to follow. He’s written 4 New York Times bestselling books after researching “Blue Zones” — regions of the world where people live longer, happier and healthier lives and what they do differently. In this episode Marie interviews Dan about the world…

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#273: The Tabletop Game Licensing Blueprint that Closed Major Deals with April Mitchell 27:48

4M ago27:48

27:48

Licensing a tabletop game doesn’t require years of experience or a perfectly polished prototype. What it really takes is a strong idea, a strategic approach, and the confidence to put yourself out there. In this episode of Making It In The Toy Industry, I’m sitting down with April Mitchell, motivational speaker, licensing expert, TCA Alumni, and fo…

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444 - “Do Not Buy A House!” - DO THIS to Build REAL Wealth Instead with Ramit Sethi 1:23:29

4M ago1:23:29

1:23:29

What if everything you’ve been taught about money is wrong? In this real talk conversation, bestselling author and financial expert Ramit Sethi reveals why buying a house might be the worst investment you can make — and what to do instead to build real, lasting wealth. You’ll learn how to stop “playing small” with your money, avoid common financial…

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#272: How Labubu Became The Most Wanted Plush in the World 36:08

4M ago36:08

36:08

It started with a fuzzy little monster, hiding in the pages of a picture book inspired by Nordic fairy tales. She wasn’t famous. She didn’t have a movie deal. But when one K-pop superstar hugged her on Instagram… everything changed. This week on Making It In The Toy Industry, I’m diving into the jaw-dropping rise of Labubu, the “ugly-cute” characte…

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443 - Robin Sharma On The Extraordinary Benefits Of Waking Up at 5am 37:16

4M ago37:16

37:16

Ready to create your best work? Robin Sharma has a morning routine for you. Learn about the extraordinary benefits of joining the 5am club — and why so many high performers, creatives, and leaders are waking up at 5am. “You can play with your phone or change the world. You don't get to do both.” Thanks for listening! New episodes drop every Tuesday…

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#271: Email Marketing Rules You Can’t Break 40:39

4M ago40:39

40:39

Are you sleeping on the money-making magic of your email list? If you've been pouring all your energy into TikToks, Reels, and likes… hold up. Because while social media might be where the buzz is, your email list is where the buying happens. It’s your direct line to superfans, curious retailers, and future customers who actually want to hear from …

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442 - Repeat These 2 Words to Reinvent Yourself with Jonathan Van Ness 1:02:35

5M ago1:02:35

1:02:35

What if two simple words could change how you see yourself - and your future? In this powerful peisode, Jonathan Van Ness shares the surprising phrase that helped them stop spiraling self-talk and start living with purpose, creativity, and courage. From overcoming people-pleasing to embracing their natural talents, JVN gets real about how they lear…

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#270: The Pricing Strategy That’s Getting Buyers to Say YES 19:53

5M ago19:53

19:53

What if your toy’s price point was the only thing standing between you and a “yes” from a major retailer? You’ve got the product, the mission, and maybe even a booth at Toy Fair but if buyers are walking by without placing orders, it might not be your toy that’s the problem… it might be the price. In this episode, you’ll hear how one Toy Creators A…

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441 - Arianna Huffington On The Sleep Revolution That Will Transform Your Life 24:05

5M ago24:05

24:05

Did you know better sleep could radically improve every part of your life? Whether you can’t sleep or just don’t want to sleep more — this information is a big wake-up call. According to Arianna Huffington, we’re in the midst of a sleep deprivation crisis and she’s got hard science to back it up. Lack of sleep has profound and sometimes dire conseq…

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#269: Thinking Differently About Toy Production with Lisa Doiron of Basic Fun 16:12

5M ago16:12

16:12

Before we dive into one of the most creative plush lines I’ve ever seen, we need to talk about something serious — TARIFFS. In this episode of Making It in The Toy Industry, I’m kicking things off with an urgent update about the current U.S.–China tariff situation and how it could affect your toy business. I’m sharing what I would do right now if I…

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440 - Quit the Life That’s Killing You (Before It’s Too Late) with Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach & Amanda Doyle 1:13:21

5M ago1:13:21

1:13:21

Ever feel like you're barely surviving the life you're "supposed" to want? In this deeply honest episode, Glennon Doyle, Abby Wambach, and Amanda Doyle explore the emotional toll of living a life that no longer aligns with your truth. From grief and self-abandonment to the liberation of saying no and quitting with intention, this conversation is a …

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439 - Tony Robbins on What it Takes to Have an Extraordinary Life 54:44

5M ago54:44

54:44

“Our competitive advantage is love.” Go behind the scenes as Tony Robbins shares candidly about his life, family and work — and what you can do right now to transform the quality of your life. This episode is packed with insights, ahas and practical strategies. Grab your notebook and pop on your headphones (especially if you have little kids around…

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#268: The Truth Behind Being a Game Inventor with Jeremy Posner 44:53

5M ago44:53

44:53

Behind every “yes” in the toy industry, there’s a mountain of “no’s,” countless hours of hustle, and more trial and error than most people expect. At one point, he came close to walking away from it all—until a single line from an episode of Bluey reminded him that making games was exactly what he was meant to do. In this episode Making It In The T…

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438 - Grace Bonney: Here's the Deal About Work Life Balance 34:04

5M ago34:04

34:04

So often women beat themselves up, thinking that they’re doing something wrong because they haven’t found a perfect work life balance. Marie and Grace dive deep into what it means to be real and vulnerable without getting sucked down into a place of negativity, the transformational power of mistakes, and the real deal with work life balance. It’s n…

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#267: Winning a TOTY Award and Scaling a Toy Business Through 3D Printing with Solobo Toys 47:50

6M ago47:50

47:50

Can 3D printing really replace traditional toy manufacturing? One founder says “absolutely” and she’s got the award to prove it. In this episode, I’m chatting with the amazing Courtney Peebles, founder of Solobo Toys, about how she won a TOTY Award for her hit plush toy, Emotional Baggage, and how rising manufacturing challenges pushed her to trans…

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437 - How to Heal When Everything Falls Apart 1:25:13

6M ago1:25:13

1:25:13

What do you do when life falls apart? In this powerful conversation, Suleika Jaouad shares how journaling, creativity, and community helped her survive cancer, heartbreak, and uncertainty - and build a life of purpose and beauty. You'll learn how to transform pain into power, rewrite limiting narratives, and reconnect with what makes you feel most …

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#266: NY Toy Fair 2025 Exclusive Interview with Sharon Price John 43:38

6M ago43:38

43:38

“There are no tired brands, just tired marketers.” That quote alone has been living rent-free in my head since this interview. It has challenged me to take a look at my own brand and ask, am I doing everything I can to keep it thriving? In this episode, Sharon Price John, President and CEO of Build-A-Bear Workshop and Chairwoman of the Toy Associat…

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436 - Seth Godin Thinks You Should Stop Waiting For The Right Moment 33:21

6M ago33:21

33:21

Marie Forleo talks to the legendary Seth Godin about handling failure in life, overcoming writer’s block, self-doubt and starting something that matters right here and now. You'll learn why you should stop waiting for the right moment, why Seth doesn’t believe in your ‘calling’, and so much more. We rarely look back on our lives and say “I’m disapp…

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#265: Navigating the Tariff Changes in The Toy Industry | April 2025 1:03:54

6M ago1:03:54

1:03:54

Is it time to stop manufacturing overseas? Or are these tariffs just temporary chaos? In this episode we're talking about the massive new tariffs shaking up the toy industry and what they mean for your bottom line. With import costs from China jumping up to 54% April 2nd, and a potential 104% threat looming over the horizon, toy creators everywhere…

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435 - Mark Manson: How to Stop Caring About Things That Don’t Matter 27:37

6M ago27:37

27:37

Best-selling writer Mark Manson has a fresh, irreverent perspective to share in the conversation about what brings true happiness and fulfillment in life. No matter how great your life is, you’re always going to encounter pain and struggle—the question is, how are you going to react to it? The key to living a good life isn't getting rid of struggle…