Grow the Good, formerly The Sonya Looney Show, is your guide to continual personal growth, meaningful connections, and positive impact in the world. Challenge the idea that you are broken or need fixing. Instead, discover how to cultivate the good that already exists within you and amplify the strengths and potential you may not yet realize you have. Grounded in the science of positive psychology and guided by the pillars of purpose, vitality, resilience, hope, and connection, each episode i ...
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Sonya Looney Podcasts
What does it take to flourish? We started Flourish FM to share cutting edge research from world experts on how to thrive, so you can take away big ideas and practical steps to enhance your life, the lives of others, and, ultimately, make the world a better place. Flourish FM is hosted by Dr. Jon Beale and Dr. Nick Holton, and in collaboration with the Human Flourishing Program at Harvard University, the Department of Education at the University of Oxford, and The Shipley School.
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Every woman harbors the spirit of flight. We talk about it, one story at a time. Our guests include superstar athletes, world champions, aviators, gritty moms, and women who can't be ignored. Join us each week and connect with women who dare to pursue their dreams and fly.
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Episode 68#: Resilience, Performance and Growing the Good, with Sonya Looney
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45:44Sonya Looney is a World Champion mountain biker with nearly two decades of elite racing experience across 25+ countries, earning titles including 2015 World Champion and four times USA National Champion. Her unique background combines endurance sports with a deep expertise in positive psychology. She holds a Master’s in Applied Positive Psychology …
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Mindfulness in Action: Slowing Down the Rush
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23:44Lately, I've been grappling with motivation—questioning what to share, how to show up authentically, and the pressure to always be productive. Let's dive into the emotional and physical toll of constantly hurrying, the societal glorification of busyness, and the importance of setting boundaries to protect our well-being. Together, we'll reflect on:…
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Episode 70#: Understanding the Impact of Biological Rhythms on Flourishing, with Dr. Satchin Panda
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53:07Dr. Satchin Panda is a world-leading expert in circadian rhythm research. He’s an Associate Professor at the Salk Institute for Biological Studies, a Pew Scholar, and a recipient of the Dana Foundation Award in brain and immune system imaging. Satchin is the author of two best-selling books, The Circadian Code and The Circadian Diabetes Code. Learn…
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Episode 69#: Exploring the “New Happy” Philosophy with Stephanie Harrison.
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48:14Stephanie Harrison is an expert in the science of happiness, author of the international bestseller New Happy: Getting Happiness Right in a World that’s Got It Wrong (2024), and creator of the new happy philosophy. In New Happy, Stephanie argues that the secret to happiness is helping others, and that by adopting this philosophy in our lives, we wi…
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Why Feeling Valued Matters: Creating a Culture of Significance with Zach Mercurio
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1:04:59Ever wonder why feeling valued and significant at work (and in life!) matters so much? This week, I'm thrilled to welcome researcher, author, and purposeful leadership expert Zach Mercurio to Grow the Good. Zach dives deep into the critical concept of mattering—the foundational human need to feel significant, seen, and valued by others. Drawing fro…
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The Power of Connection: Why Friendship Matters More Than You Think
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19:23We all crave connection—but in the busy shuffle of adult life, it’s easy to lose touch with the very relationships that keep us grounded. In this solo episode of Grow the Good, I’m diving into the topic of friendship and why it’s essential—not just for happiness, but for our health and longevity. I explore why making new friends gets harder after 3…
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Mind-Body Mastery: Building Resilience, Flow, and Confidence with Pete Kadushin
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1:00:56How do you truly unlock your potential—not just in sport, but in life? In this episode of Grow the Good, I’m joined by Pete Kadushin, performance psychologist, educator, and Manager of Learning and Development for the Chicago Blackhawks. Pete brings over 15 years of experience working with elite performers in professional sports, collegiate athleti…
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Episode #67: How to overcome a victim mindset and realize your potential Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman
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42:50Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman is a psychologist, coach, professor, keynote speaker, and bestselling author who is passionate about helping people with all kinds of minds live a creative, fulfilling, and self-actualized life. His early educational experiences made him realize the deep reservoir of untapped potential of students, including bright and creat…
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Meaningful Work Matters featuring Sonya Looney
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48:12Today's episode features an episode of the Meaningful Work Matters podcast hosted by Andrew Soren. Beyond Perfect Performance: Lessons from Sonya Looney In this episode of Meaningful Work Matters, host Andrew Soren explores the intricate relationship between perfectionism and meaningful work with Sonya Looney, a unique voice at the intersection of …
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Mindfulness in Action: How to Regulate Your Emotions for Resilience and Performance
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32:57Have you ever found yourself overcome by emotions—whether excitement at a race start, stress at work, or overwhelm from everyday life? In this Mindfulness in Action session, I explore practical strategies to regulate your emotions, inspired by Ethan Kross’s insightful new book, Shift. I'll share powerful tools, including mindfulness techniques focu…
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Finding Meaningful Work with Tamara Myles and Wes Adams: The 3 C's to Thrive in Your Career
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57:10What does it mean to truly find meaning at work? This week, I'm thrilled to chat with my friends and positive psychology experts, Tamara Myles and Wes Adams. Their new book, Meaningful Work, offers powerful insights and practical strategies on how we can transform our careers and workplaces using their three-part framework: Community, Contribution,…
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Embracing Uncertainty, Rejection, and the Power of Your Story with Capella Fahoome
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58:51How do you respond to rejection, uncertainty, or feeling like an outsider? Today's guest, Capella Fahoome, filmmaker and organizational development expert, believes these moments are opportunities for incredible growth. Capella shares her inspiring journey from psychology to award-winning filmmaking, highlighting the essential role of relationships…
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Clarity, Belonging, and the How to Win the Inside Game with Steve Magness
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1:01:51What does it really take to thrive in today’s world? Dive into this compelling conversation with Steve Magness, renowned performance coach and author of 'Win the Inside Game.' In this episode of Grow the Good, Steve and I unpack the essentials of maintaining a balanced identity amidst life’s challenges. We delve into his innovative framework for su…
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Practice: Moving Toward Contentment in the Chaos
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25:29In this reflective moving meditation, I am taking us on a trail ride through the serene greenery post a heavy snowfall, sharing her personal journey towards finding contentment amidst life’s relentless pace. I'm going to talk about the subtle distinction between rumination and reflection, emphasizing the value of embracing the present moment withou…
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The Mental Reset: How to Break Free from Rumination and Overthinking
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53:59We've all been there - stuck in a thought loop about an experience, interaction, or feeling. But how do we break the cycle? Today, I'll explore the six common triggers of rumination, from social interactions to deep-seated resentments, and learn how to differentiate between harmful rumination and productive reflection. I'll guide you through effect…
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Episode #66: Nine tenets to building mental fitness, with Drew Ramsey, MD
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56:22Drew Ramsey, MD, is a leading board-certified integrative psychiatrist, best-selling author and leading proponent of nutritional psychiatry and mental fitness. He served as an Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Columbia University, Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeon for twenty years. He also founded the Brain Food Clinic in New Yo…
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Unlocking Your Inner Wisdom with George Mumford
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1:10:19Mindfulness expert George Mumford has traversed a remarkable path from injured athlete to mind-body guru and has inspired countless individuals, from NBA legends like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant to corporate leaders and Olympic athletes. In this episode, George shares invaluable insights on achieving peak mental states through “no mind,” embraci…
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Episode #65: How to improve your well-being and recover from mental illness, with Dr. Lindsay Oades
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51:56Dr. Lindsay G. Oades is an internationally acclaimed, multi award-winning well-being scientist, researcher, public policy strategist, educator and author. He is Deputy Dean and Professor of Wellbeing Science at the University of Melbourne. He has recently worked with UNESCO on the International Science and Evidence Based Education Assessment. He is…
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NEW Practice: A Moving Meditation on Resilience and Recovery
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21:38Join me, Sonya Looney, in our first moving meditation of 2025. Today's journey is about harnessing patience and acceptance amidst life's unavoidable interruptions. I'm back on the bike after my longest training break, so it feels more relevant than ever to highlight the importance of emotional regulation, the power of naming our emotions, and the c…
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A New Chapter in Cultivating Personal Growth and Wellbeing
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27:00Are you ready to transform the way you think about success and happiness? This isn’t just about personal achievement; it’s about creating a life filled with purpose, vitality, and meaningful connections. Welcome to 'Grow the Good,' where we explore not just surviving, but truly thriving in every area of life. Formerly the Sonya Looney Show, this po…
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Episode #64: Gretchen Rubin on Happiness and Human Nature
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58:01Gretchen Rubin is one of today’s most influential and thought-provoking observers of happiness and human nature. She’s known for her ability to convey complex ideas – from science to literature to stories from her own life – with levity and clarity. Gretchen is the author of many books, which have sold millions of copies in more than thirty languag…
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Performance-Based Identities with Dr. Ben Walker
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59:35How do your achievements shape your sense of self? In this episode of Grow the Good, I sit down with Ben Walker, an expert in organizational behavior from Victoria University of Wellington, to explore the intricate world of performance-based identities. We discuss how the labels we attach to ourselves shape our sense of self and influence our deepe…
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As a world champion mountain biker, mental performance coach, and someone deeply passionate about positive psychology, I’ve always believed in focusing on the good that already exists within us and around us. “Grow the Good” isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement towards living authentically and thriving through the pillars of purpose, vitality, resi…
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Episode #63: How to live a more fulfilling and meaningful life, with Oliver Burkeman
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51:26Oliver Burkeman is a British journalist, author, and speaker whose work focuses on productivity, time management, and finding meaning in our fast-paced world. He graduated from the University of Cambridge, where he studied Social and Political Sciences, informing his critical examination of societal expectations around productivity and success. Bur…
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December can be a joyful yet challenging time - full of excitement for the holidays and a new year, but also heavy with grief, difficult family dynamics, and feelings of loneliness. Let's step away from the chaos and immerse ourselves in the sights, sounds, and sensations of the natural world to find calm amidst the storm. By slowing down and reall…
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In a world where achievements often define us, it's easy to get caught up in chasing external validation and performance-based identities. But what does it mean to truly escape the comparison trap? As we gear up for a transition to "Grow the Good," I'm excited to share this solo reflection about the power of uniqueness. I explain why moving away fr…
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Episode #62: Is Our Modern Civilization Helping or Hindering Flourishing? Insights and Answers with Dr. Christopher Ryan
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49:27Dr. Christopher Ryan is a thought-provoking author, researcher, and host of the podcast Tangentially Speaking. He gained international recognition with his New York Times bestseller Sex at Dawn (co-authored with Cacilda Jethá), which reexamines human sexuality through the lens of anthropology and evolutionary biology, challenging conventional views…
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Functional Mental Toughness with Dr. Brad Cooper
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58:35Have you ever struggled to push through that final mile, nail a big presentation, or remain poised under stress? Today, we’re tackling Functional Mental Toughness with Dr. Brad Cooper, whose approach to mental toughness isn’t just about enduring more; it’s about thriving, preparing, and activating in ways that enhance performance without compromisi…
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Transform Perfectionism into Social Contribution with Sonya Looney
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40:52This week we are sharing an episode of the Wise Effort Show with Dr. Diana Hill featuring Sonya! ---------- In this episode of the Wise Effort Show, Dr. Diana Hill, a clinical psychologist, discusses the challenges of perfectionism and how to practice wise effort at work with Sonya Looney, a world-champion mountain biker They explore the intersecti…
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Episode #61: “Toxic Productivity” and Our Ability to Flourish, with Israa Nasir
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49:53Israa Nasir, MHC-LP, is a psychotherapist, writer, and the founder of WellGuide, a digital community for mental health awareness. She recently published Toxic Productivity: Reclaim Your Time and Emotional Energy in a World that Always Demands More (November 2024), a book that demonstrates how to challenge the various masks of toxic productivity and…
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I want to dig deep into something that touches every one of us, whether we’re aware of it or not: purpose. Purpose encompasses goal direction, intentionality, and the pursuit of what is seen as important in life. It provides a reason to get up in the morning and persist through challenges. Purpose has layers—it’s not just one definition or feeling.…
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Bringing meditation into daily life is a different beast. Today’s moving meditation will be short, simple—and really hard, because we’re taking meditation on the move so you can apply mindfulness to everyday activities like workouts or a quiet hike. In today’s episode, I break down how to shift from an ego-focused to a task-focused mindset during p…
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Episode #60: Emotional Intelligence and Resilience with “EI” Pioneer, Dr. Daniel Goleman
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58:16Psychologist and author of Emotional Intelligence, Daniel Goleman, Ph.D., has transformed the way the world educates children, relates to family and friends, leads, and conducts business. A frequent speaker on campuses and to businesses of all kinds and sizes, he has worked with organizations around the globe, examining the way social and emotional…
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Mastering Mindfulness in Sports: Dr. Sara Mitchell on Enhancing Athletic Performance and Well-being
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1:01:19It’s clear: mindfulness transforms athletic performance and overall well-being. But how do we use it in daily practice? Today, I’m sitting down with the incredible Dr. Sara Mitchell. We unpack the power of mindfulness in enhancing focus, managing self-talk, and steering through life’s chaos both on and off the track. Learn about the crucial roles o…
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Episode #59: How to Harness Meaning, Mattering and Purpose for a Flourishing Work Life, with Dr. Zach Mercurio
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56:17Zach Mercurio, Ph.D., is a researcher, author, and speaker specializing in purposeful leadership, mattering, meaningful work, and positive organizational psychology. As author of The Invisible Leader: Transform Your Life, Work, and Organization with the Power of Authentic Purpose, Zach has inspired individuals and organizations to discover and leve…
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Practice: A Moving Meditation to Combat Self-Criticism
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23:04Today, I’m taking you along a trail ride, not just through the physical landscapes but through the terrain of our minds. It’s about confronting and managing the self-criticism that often accompanies our high expectations, especially when we push towards big goals in high-performance settings. In this episode, I’ll share how I transform self-critici…
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Episode #58: How to Clean Up Your Mental Mess & Flourish, with Dr. Caroline Leaf
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58:31Dr. Caroline Leaf is a clinical and research neuroscientist, communication pathologist, and author, recognized for her groundbreaking work on brain science and mental health. With a Ph.D. in Communication Pathology, Caroline focuses on the mind-brain connection and the transformative power of thought management for enhancing mental well-being. Her …
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Vibrant Health: Neuroscience, Nutrition, and Sleep with Lauren Costantini
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58:18Does success have a singular path? Lauren Costantini is a former neuroscientist turned nutrition coach, whose eclectic journey from performing arts to the pinnacle of science and athletics offers so many cool insights into achieving vibrant health. Lauren’s shift to a plant-based diet enhanced her recovery from surgery and transformed her athletic …
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Fresh Tracks: Reflecting, Racing, and Rethinking Success
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38:42I’m thrilled to be back on the airwaves after a two-month rejuvenation break! In today’s episode, I’m excited to share some personal updates including: completing my master’s in applied positive psychology, winning the downhill category at Singletrack Six, and my top-ten finish at Breck Epic. Plus, I’ll share more about my transition to part-time r…
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Episode #57: What Every BODY Should Know About Nutrition & Flourishing, with Dr. Federica Amati
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57:35Dr. Federica Amati is a postdoctoral medical scientist and public health nutritionist, committed to advancing our understanding of nutrition and lifestyle interventions for optimal health. She holds a Ph.D. in Clinical Medicine Research from Imperial College London, where her work focused on the gut microbiome and its impact on human health. She fo…
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Episode #56: Navigating life’s choices: Daniel Pink on motivation, regrets, growth and flourishing
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51:17Daniel H. Pink is a renowned author known for his groundbreaking work on motivation, work, and human behavior. He is the author of five New York Times bestsellers, the most recent of which is The Power of Regret: How Looking Backward Moves Us Forward, which explores the role of regret in personal and professional growth, offering new insights into …
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Episode #55: The Art and Science of Connection and Social Health, with Kasley Killam
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50:13Kasley Killam, MPH, is the author of The Art and Science of Connection: Why Social Health is the Missing Key to Living Longer, Healthier, and Happier (HarperCollins, June 2024). She is a Harvard-trained social scientist, award-winning innovator, and is internationally recognized as a leading expert in “social health”: the dimension of well-being th…
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Episode #54: Strategies for Real World Enlightenment, with Susan Kaiser Greenland
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49:50Susan Kaiser Greenland is a mindfulness educator and bestselling author, who teaches mindfulness to children, teens, parents, and educators for everyday practices. She is a former corporate attorney, but transformed her career after discovering meditation, founding Inner Kids to teach secular mindfulness in schools and community programs. She has b…
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As we celebrate during the Olympics, I am always struck by the power of elite athletes who are also navigating motherhood. In this Quick Study, I'm highlighting conversations with three incredible women who share their raw and honest experiences transitioning into motherhood while competing at the highest levels. Hear from Betsi Flint, a 7x AVP Cha…
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Episode #53: Positive Leadership: How to Lead Well by Doing Good, with Dr. Craig Dowden
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47:51Dr. Craig Dowden is a bestselling author, award-winning keynote speaker, and executive coach born and raised in Newfoundland. He is celebrated for his expertise in bridging the gap between the science and practice of leadership excellence, and has spent over 25 years exploring the connections between leadership theory and application. Craig’s caree…
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Revisiting Practice: A Moving Meditation for Your Next Ride
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22:49As I’ve recently raced the TransRockies, the importance of mindfulness in riding, sport, and life was vividly reminded to me. Mental well-being isn’t just a component of high performance—it’s the foundation. This episode revisits our exploration into the transformative practice of moving meditation, specifically tailored for cycling. In this moving…
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Episode #52: How to exit the grind and live a happier, more fulfilling life
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52:23Dr. Maike Neuhaus is a future-oriented positive psychology coach dedicated to empowering individuals, teams, and organizations to flourish. As co-founder and Self-Leadership Driver of Ducidium, she spearheads a mission to equip others with the tools and mindset needed to confidently lead transformative journeys. She is also founder of the Flourishi…
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Finding Meaning and Mattering at Work Through Eudaimonia with Andrew Soren
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58:40Today, we’re tackling a crucial topic—finding and fostering meaningful work. It’s not just about what we do, but aligning our work with our deepest values to find joy and purpose every day. I’m thrilled to be joined by Andrew Soren, a leader dedicated to enhancing well-being in the workplace. Andrew is the Founder and CEO of Eudaimonic by Design, h…
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Quick Study: Plant-Based Performance for Athletes
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15:35Plant-based nutrition can change our overall health - but how can it impact athlete performance? In today’s “Quick Study” episode, I'm excited to highlight two remarkable advocates for plant-based living—Olympic silver medalist Dotsie Bausch and vegan bodybuilding pioneer Robert Cheeke. Dotsie shares her transformative journey from professional cyc…
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Episode #51: How to use transformational coaching to thrive at work and in life
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57:45Elena Aguilar [Ay-lay-nuh Ar-gue-la] is a bestselling author and coaching expert known for her eight books on coaching and leadership development, including The Art of Coaching and The Art of Coaching Teams. Her forthcoming comprehensive coaching book, Arise: The Art of Transformational Coaching, highlights conversational skills to help you thrive …
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