E680 - How To Set Yourself Up For Your Best Year Yet: Actionable Insights From A Year Of Inspiring Conversations Hacks And Hobbies With Junaid Ahmed

41:30

Hey there, creative souls and aspiring champions! Welcome to another electrifying episode of Hacks & Hobbies, where we dive deep into the transformative power of creativity. Today, I'm thrilled to introduce you to Julie Stout - a creative powerhouse who's on a mission to turn underdogs into superheroes. Imagine a world where creativity isn't just a skill, but a way of life. Julie has lived this philosophy, helping her own children overcome educational challenges and now guiding businesses to unlock their creative potential. From navigating complex algorithm updates to reframing negative situations, Julie shows us that creativity is the ultimate superpower.In this episode, we'll explore how to lighten up, look beyond limitations, and transform challenges into opportunities. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a parent, or someone seeking to unleash your inner creative genius, Julie's insights will inspire you to see the world differently. Get ready to flip your perspective, raise your vibration, and discover how creativity can be your greatest asset. Let's dive in!Where to reach our Guest advancreative.com (Company) underdogscreate.com (Other) juliestout.com (Personal) 3 Hacks to take away Creativity is a Spectrum: Everyone has creative potential, and it's not limited to artistic talents. By understanding and nurturing creativity, individuals can overcome limitations and achieve higher performance in personal and professional life. The Power of the Creative Flip: Transform negative situations into opportunities by immediately shifting perspective, brainstorming solutions, and focusing on potential growth rather than dwelling on challenges. Raising Your Vibration: Creativity thrives when you "lighten up" (LTF - Lighten the F* Up), increase your energy levels, and learn to bypass negative thought patterns that restrict your creative flow.…

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E727 - Jeremy Shapiro - How to Build a Business That Gives You Freedom, Not a Second Job 42:12

5 days ago42:12

42:12

Welcome to Hacks & Hobbies, where we dive deep into the stories of passionate entrepreneurs who are rewriting the rules of success. I'm your host, Junaid Ahmed, and today, we're unlocking the secrets of entrepreneurial freedom with a man who's been in the trenches and emerged with wisdom that can transform your business journey. Meet Jeremy Shapiro - a serial entrepreneur, mentor, and coach who's spent decades helping founders break free from the daily grind. Imagine a business that doesn't just survive, but thrives - giving you the time, financial stability, and personal fulfillment you've always dreamed of.In this episode, Jeremy will shatter the myth that success means working 24/7. We'll explore how small strategic changes can create massive shifts in your business, why community is your greatest asset, and how to build a company that serves your life, not the other way around. Whether you're a startup founder, a seasoned business owner, or simply curious about the entrepreneurial mindset, this conversation will challenge everything you thought you knew about building a successful business. Get ready to reimagine your entrepreneurial path. Where to reach our Guest: https://BayAreaMastermind.com/ https://linkedin.com/in/jeremyshapiro/ https://instagram.com/bayareamastermind https://linkedin.com/company/bay-area-mastermind/ https://facebook.com/BayAreaMastermind3 Hacks to take away Entrepreneurial Freedom is About Optionality, Not Just Money Jeremy emphasizes that true entrepreneurial success isn't about working endless hours, but creating a business that provides choice in how you spend your time. This means building systems that allow the business to operate without constant personal intervention, giving entrepreneurs the ability to step away, travel, spend time with family, or pursue other interests. Small Hinges Swing Big Doors Jeremy introduces the concept that minor strategic changes can create significant business transformations. By focusing on small, iterative improvements and being willing to experiment, entrepreneurs can unlock massive potential in their existing businesses. The key is to continuously test, learn, and adapt rather than remaining stuck in rigid approaches. Don't Go It Alone - Community is Your Greatest Asset The conversation repeatedly highlights the importance of surrounding yourself with like-minded entrepreneurs. Just as cyclists draft off each other in a peloton to move faster and further, business owners can accelerate their growth by learning from peers, sharing experiences, and creating a supportive network that provides diverse perspectives and collective wisdom.…

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E726 - After interviewing Pat Flynn - How to Transform Learning into Leadership: Turning Hobbies and Passion into Meaningful Action 6:39

10 days ago6:39

6:39

Hey Hobby Hackers! Today's episode is something special. I just had the incredible opportunity to sit down with Pat Flynn - yes, THE Pat Flynn who inspired my podcasting journey back in 2018. If you've ever wondered how passion, consistency, and taking messy action can transform your creative path, this episode is for you. We dive deep into the power of learning by doing, the magic of hobbies, and how teaching while learning can lift entire communities. Pat even mentioned my Home Studio Mastery in his new book "Lean Learning" - a moment that still feels surreal. From fishing to Pokemon, from podcasting to personal growth, we explore how every small step, every conversation, and every action builds something meaningful. Whether you've been with Hacks and Hobbies for five years or five minutes, this conversation will remind you that you know enough to begin, and you're leading more than you realize. Get ready for an inspiring journey of discovery, courage, and community. Let's dive in!3 Hacks to take away Consistency Pays Off: By showing up consistently, engaging in communities (like SBI Pro), and taking messy action, you can create unexpected opportunities and connections that advance your goals. Learn by Doing, Not Just Hoarding: Stop accumulating knowledge for knowledge's sake. Instead, apply one thing at a time, use your skills to help others, and learn through practical experience and real-world application. Hobbies Teach More Than Hustle: Personal interests like fishing, Pokemon, or gardening are powerful learning environments where you naturally develop skills through hands-on experience, rather than endless preparation or theoretical study.…

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E725 - Lean Learning in Real Life: My Conversation with Pat Flynn 46:17

13 days ago46:17

46:17

Today, I have a truly special episode that represents a full-circle moment in my entrepreneurial journey. My guest is someone who has profoundly impacted my life - Pat Flynn. Back in 2018, I discovered Pat through Gary Vaynerchuk's book "Crushing It" and immediately enrolled in his podcasting course. In 2020, I joined his SPI Pro membership, and in 2022, I was even a guest on his show "Ask Pat". But here's the most incredible part - in Pat's latest book "Lean Learning", I'm actually mentioned! From being a student to now being recognized as a leader, this conversation is going to be an incredible exploration of learning, growth, and community. Pat Flynn is not just an entrepreneur, he's a mentor who has helped thousands of creators find their path.We're going to dive deep into how to learn effectively, overcome information overload, and turn your passions into meaningful work. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a hobbyist, or someone looking to level up your skills, this episode is packed with insights that will inspire and transform you. So buckle up, and let's jump into this amazing conversation! Our Guest smartpassiveincome.com (Company) patflynn.com (Personal) spipro.com (Company) 3 Hacks to take away Embrace Lean Learning: Focus on just-in-time learning by selecting specific mentors, avoiding information overload, and taking action instead of endlessly consuming content. Pat emphasizes breaking down learning into micro-mastery and concentrating on small, achievable steps. Leverage Community and Support: Surround yourself with people who champion your growth. Engage in communities, seek mentors, and be willing to both learn from others and contribute value. The right support system can accelerate your personal and professional development. Create Consistent Series and Force Functions: Develop a structured approach to learning and content creation by creating series with predictable formats and setting "force functions" - specific commitments that push you to take action and improve. This approach helps build skills, audience engagement, and personal confidence.…

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E724 - Interviewing a Legend - Pat Flynn 6:05

18 days ago6:05

6:05

Today's episode is a dream come true - a conversation with someone who's been a legend and mentor in my journey. I'm talking about Pat Flynn, and this isn't just an interview - it's a full-circle moment. Back in 2018, I discovered Pat through his book "Crushing It" and dove deep into his world - taking courses, joining his community, and even being featured on his expert panels. Now, something incredible has happened: Pat's new book "Lean Learning" actually mentions my brand, Home Studio Mastery, in chapter eight! This episode is about more than just another interview. We're diving into how to stop hoarding information and start creating. We'll explore why hobbies matter, how to transform from a learner to a leader, and why intentional learning beats information overload. If you've ever felt stuck, if you've been learning but not doing, this episode is for you. Get ready to be inspired, challenged, and motivated to turn your passions into something meaningful. Every hobby has a story, and every story can become your superpower. Subscribe now, and let's hack this journey together! 3 Hacks to take away Lean Learning Principle: Stop consuming endless information and start taking intentional action. Most people download resources, save videos, and collect courses without actually implementing what they've learned. Personal Growth Journey: Transition from being a learner to becoming a leader in your community by applying knowledge, sharing experiences, and building something meaningful through your passion or hobby. Validation Through Action: Recognize that every hobby has a story, and by actively engaging and experimenting with your interests, you can transform your learning into a personal and professional superpower.…

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E723 - Kay Chan - How to Transform Your Creative Passion into a Thriving Design Career 44:26

20 days ago44:26

44:26

Today we're diving into the fascinating world of design with a true visual storytelling expert.Imagine transforming your childhood love of drawing Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles into a career that helps global brands communicate their most powerful messages. Our guest today has done exactly that. Kay Chan is a presentation design virtuoso with over two decades of corporate and agency experience, who's mastered the art of turning complex ideas into stunning, memorable visuals. From her early days of illustration to becoming a sought-after freelance designer, Kay has navigated the evolving landscape of digital creativity with skill, passion, and an unwavering commitment to her craft. She'll share her journey, reveal insider tips on creating killer presentations, and show us how to hack our way through the creative process. Get ready for an inspiring conversation that will change how you think about design, communication, and turning your passions into a thriving career.Let's dive in!Where to reach our Guest https://khimeric.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/khimeric/ https://www.instagram.com/khimeric/3 Hacks to take away Presentation Design is More Than Just Slides: Presentation design is a strategic art of simplifying complex messages, focusing on the most impactful elements that capture and retain audience attention. It's not about cramming information, but about creating visual narratives that communicate core messages effectively. Be Proactive, Not Reactive in Your Design Career: Kay emphasizes the importance of setting goals, staying motivated, and not waiting for circumstances to force a career change. She discovered her niche in presentation design while still working a corporate job, which ultimately led to her successful freelance career. Your Website and Presentations Are Critical Brand Communication Tools: Kay argues that both websites and presentations are crucial for brand communication. While websites provide a constant digital presence, presentations offer a unique opportunity to directly engage with an audience and deliver your message with maximum impact.…

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E722 - How to Build a Powerful Home Studio by Mastering Your Unseen Foundation 9:02

24 days ago9:02

9:02

Are you a content creator struggling to make your mark? What if the secret to commanding attention isn't about what your audience sees, but what they'll never see? Welcome to Hacks and Hobbies, where today we're diving deep into the underground world of studio mastery.Just like an oak tree, your creative success depends on invisible roots. While everyone admires the polished branches, it's the unseen foundation that truly determines your potential. Imagine transforming your content creation from amateur to professional, not through expensive gear, but through strategic, intentional growth.In this episode, I'll reveal how years of silent preparation can lead to explosive, seemingly overnight success. We'll explore practical steps to build your home studio from the ground up, starting with one focused corner and growing your confidence with each incremental improvement. Whether you're a podcaster, YouTuber, or aspiring content creator, this episode will show you that true mastery happens in the shadows, long before the spotlight finds you. Get ready to dig deep, embrace the unsexy work, and watch your creative roots transform into towering success.Let's grow underground to show up online. 3 Hacks to take away Underground Growth Matters: Like the Chinese bamboo tree that grows underground for five years before rapidly shooting up, content creators must invest time in unseen preparation, learning, and skill development before achieving visible success. Focus on One Space First: Instead of trying to perfect an entire room at once, choose one corner to optimize completely. Master the lighting, sound, and visuals in a small area to build confidence and competence simultaneously. Invest in Education Before Equipment: Prioritize learning about lighting, audio, and acoustics before spending money on expensive gear. Practice in private, record test videos, critically audit your space, and make consistent improvements to strengthen your foundational skills.…

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E721 - Evgeniy Kharam - How to Master Soft Skills as Your Ultimate Secret Weapon in Cybersecurity and Tech 43:20

27 days ago43:20

43:20

Today, we're unlocking a game-changing secret weapon that often goes unnoticed in the tech world: soft skills.Joining me is Evgeny Kharam, a cybersecurity veteran with over 15 years of experience, who's about to reveal why technical expertise alone isn't enough to succeed. From his journey in the Navy to leading architecture teams at major consulting firms, Evgeny has discovered that the real magic happens when you master communication, empathy, and human connection. We'll explore how soft skills can elevate your career, whether you're in cybersecurity, technology, or any professional field. Learn how to break down complex technical jargon, build powerful relationships, and become a more effective communicator. Get ready to transform the way you think about professional success. This isn't just another tech talk – this is about becoming a more powerful, connected, and influential professional. Let's dive in!"Where to reach our Guest https://www.softskillstech.ca/ , https://www.linkedin.com/in/ekharam/3 Hacks to take away Soft Skills Are Critical: Technical expertise alone is insufficient; the ability to communicate complex ideas in simple, relatable language is crucial for success in cybersecurity and other technical fields. Communication Requires Empathy and Active Listening: Developing soft skills involves understanding different communication styles, asking open-ended questions, and truly listening to understand others' perspectives. Practical Skill Development: Improving soft skills can be achieved through techniques like box breathing, stepping out of your comfort zone, practicing active listening, and seeking mentorship to continuously improve communication and interpersonal abilities.…

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E720 - How to Speak to the Camera Lens Like a Pro: Overcoming On-Camera Anxiety 9:21

28 days ago9:21

9:21

Are you tired of feeling awkward in front of a camera? Do you freeze up the moment that red recording light turns on? Well, you're not alone. In today's episode of Hacks and Hobbies, I'm going to show you how to transform your on-camera presence from nervous and stilted to confident and authentic. Speaking to a camera lens doesn't have to be intimidating. It's not about being perfect – it's about being real. I'll share the game-changing techniques I've learned through hundreds of podcast interviews and video recordings that will help you connect with your audience like never before. We'll dive into three mental reframes that will shift your perspective, practical exercises to build your confidence, and insider tips that have helped me go from camera-shy to camera-ready. Whether you're creating content, recording podcasts, or just want to feel more comfortable on video, this episode is your roadmap to speaking to the lens like a pro. Get ready to unlock your on-camera confidence and make a lasting impact. Let's do this!3 Hacks to take away 1. The Camera is a Person, Not a Device Treat the camera lens like you're speaking to a real person Name your audience before recording Imagine you're having a conversation with a friend Drop the performance pressure and focus on connection 2. Confidence Comes from Connection, Not Perfection Don't aim for a flawless performance Be authentic and present Your energy matters more than technical perfection Remember that audiences want to see a genuine person, not a polished performer 3. Practical Techniques to Build Camera Confidence Use the Mirror Drill: Practice speaking to a mirror, then to a camera lens Try the Eye Contact Hack: Place a photo of a loved one near the camera lens Implement the One-Take Challenge: Record without stopping, speaking from the heart Consider using a teleprompter as a confidence monitor to help maintain eye contact and reduce anxiety…

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E719 - Lily Patrascu - How to Publish a Book That Transforms Your Personal Brand and Attracts Massive Opportunities 41:23

4 weeks ago41:23

41:23

Today, we're diving into a journey that could change everything you know about personal branding and storytelling. Imagine turning your life experiences, your passion, and your unique perspective into a powerful tool that opens doors to speaking engagements, business opportunities, and global recognition. Sounds impossible? Not when you have the right guidance. Today's guest is Lily Patrascu - a book publishing powerhouse who's helped everyone from housewives to multi-millionaires transform their lives through the art of writing. She's not just a publisher; she's a brand architect who believes that your story has the potential to impact millions.We'll explore how a single book can become your ultimate business card, how to craft a title that magnetizes your ideal audience, and why publishing isn't just about selling books - it's about creating a legacy. Whether you're an aspiring author, an entrepreneur, or someone with a story burning to be told, this episode will give you the blueprint to turn your ideas into impact.Get ready for an inspiring, actionable conversation that might just change the trajectory of your personal and professional life. Let's dive in! Where to reach our Guest https://lily.global/ https://www.facebook.com/lilypatrascuofficial https://www.linkedin.com/in/lilypatrascu/ https://www.instagram.com/lily.global/ https://www.tiktok.com/@lilypatrascu3 Hacks to take away 1. Strategic Book Publishing as a Personal Branding Tool Lily emphasizes that publishing a book is more than just writing - it's about creating a strategic asset that can open speaking opportunities, attract high-value clients, and elevate your professional brand. The book should be targeted to a specific audience and designed to solve a meaningful problem. 2. Overcoming Writing Barriers Through Modern Tools The transcript highlights multiple strategies for overcoming writing challenges, including using AI tools like ChatGPT, leveraging ghost writers, and utilizing audio recording methods. The key is to find a communication method that works for you and not get stuck in perfectionism. 3. The Transformative Power of Authorship Lily shares multiple stories demonstrating how book publishing can fundamentally transform an individual's life - from helping housewives secure speaking engagements to enabling multi-millionaires to expand their global reach. The process of writing a book helps authors clarify their ideas, gain confidence, and create a structured blueprint of their expertise.…

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E718 - How to Create a Professional Video Podcast on a Budget: Essential Gear and Setup Tips for Beginners 10:06

5 weeks ago10:06

10:06

Today we're cutting through the noise about creating a professional video podcast without breaking the bank.Ever thought, "I want to start a video podcast, but I don't have the gear, space, or budget"? Well, I'm here to tell you that you don't need a Hollywood studio to look and sound like a pro. In fact, you just need the right setup - and that setup might be simpler than you think. Today, I'm going to walk you through the essential three: lighting, audio, and camera. These are the foundation of every great video setup, and if you get them right, your videos will look and sound amazing, even on a tight budget.We'll dive into how a $40 light panel can transform your look, why your microphone matters more than your camera, and how your smartphone can be your secret weapon for creating professional content. By the end of this episode, you'll have a clear roadmap to launching your video podcast with confidence. So, grab your headphones, and let's get started! 3 Hacks to take away 1. Lighting is the Fastest Fix for Video Quality Use soft light sources or natural window light Position light slightly off-center from your face Avoid overhead lights that create harsh shadows Lighting accounts for 80% of video quality 2. Audio Quality Matters More Than Camera Equipment Use a USB microphone like Sure MB6 or Samsung Q2U Position mic 6-8 inches from your mouth Record in spaces with soft surfaces to reduce echo Bad audio will drive viewers away faster than low video quality 3. Your Smartphone Can Be a Professional Camera Mount smartphone on a tripod or arm for stability Record in 1080P or higher resolution Clean lens before shooting Lock exposure and focus if possible No need for expensive DSLR or mirrorless cameras…

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E717 - Honoree Corder - How to Write, Publish, and Profit from Your First Nonfiction Book 51:44

5 weeks ago51:44

51:44

In this episode, I'm sitting down with a true game-changer in the world of writing and publishing. Imagine turning your passion, your expertise, your life experiences into a book that not only tells your story but opens doors you never thought possible. My guest today has done exactly that - not just once, but 65 times. Honoree Corder is more than an author. She's a book producer, a TEDx speaker, and the founder of Indie Author University. She's made it her mission to transform aspiring writers into best-selling, best-earning authors. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a coach, or someone with a story burning inside you, this episode is your blueprint. We're diving deep into how to write a non-fiction book that doesn't just sit on a shelf, but becomes a powerful tool for growth, influence, and impact. How do you overcome writer's block? How do you turn your knowledge into a compelling narrative? And most importantly, how can a single book change the trajectory of your entire career? Get ready for an inspiring, practical, and transformative conversation. Honoree Corder is about to show you that your book isn't just a dream - it's your next big opportunity.Let's dive in.Where to reach our Guest honoreecorder.com3 Hacks to take away 1. The Four Elements of a Best-Earning Book A successful non-fiction book must be: Easy to read Easy to do Easy to remember Easy to share 2. Writing a Book is About Transformation, Not Just Content Your book should: Provide clear value to the reader Showcase your unique perspective Create a pathway for readers to understand and potentially work with you 3. Consistent Writing Habits Drive Book Success Key strategies include: Setting a specific daily writing time Breaking down your total word count into daily goals Committing to writing even when you don't feel motivated Never missing two consecutive writing days…

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E716 - The Cost of Saying Yes: Entrepreneurial Crossroads 7:09

6 weeks ago7:09

7:09

In the high-stakes world of entrepreneurship, saying "yes" can be both a golden opportunity and a potential pitfall. Today on Hacks and Hobbies, we dive deep into the complex landscape of business decisions that can make or break your dreams. Imagine being offered a life-changing sum for your business - a moment that seems like pure triumph. But what if that yes leads to unexpected challenges, loss of creative control, or even profound regret? We'll explore gripping stories of entrepreneurs who stood at critical crossroads. Like Bryan Bryn Putnam, who sold her fitness tech startup Mirror to Lululemon for $500 million, only to discover that selling means surrendering more than just equity. Or Jodi Bansal, who sold AppDynamics to Cisco for $3.7 billion, wrestling with the trade-offs between financial security and entrepreneurial autonomy. These aren't just stories of success or failure - they're powerful lessons about understanding the true cost of saying yes. What happens when a momentary decision transforms your entire entrepreneurial journey? Join us as we unravel the nuanced art of making pivotal business choices, and discover the hidden complexities behind seemingly straightforward decisions. 3 Hacks to take away 1. Due Diligence Beyond Financials Entrepreneurs must look beyond the immediate financial gain when considering a business deal. Evaluate cultural fit, strategic alignment, and personal consequences. The stories of Bryan Bryn Putnam and Jodi Bansal demonstrate that a successful acquisition isn't just about the dollar amount, but also about maintaining the company's vision and the founder's autonomy. 2. The Risk of Premature Decisions Timing and careful consideration are crucial in business. The Osborne effect and the dot-com boom examples illustrate how hasty decisions can lead to significant setbacks. Announcing products too early or selling out too quickly can result in missed long-term opportunities and potential market leadership. 3. Cultural Alignment and Vision Continuity When considering an acquisition or merger, founders must critically assess whether their core mission and company values will survive post-transaction. The integration into a larger corporate structure can often dilute the original entrepreneurial spirit and innovative approach that made the startup successful.These points underscore the importance of thoughtful decision-making and understanding the full implications of saying "yes" in business.…

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E715B - Cliff Ravenscraft - How to Break Free from Limiting Beliefs and Step into Your True Potential 26:28

6 weeks ago26:28

26:28

Welcome, hobby hackers! In today's powerful episode, we dive deep into breaking free from limiting beliefs with special guest Cliff Ravenscraft, a mindset expert who's going to transform how you think about personal growth. Cliff brings an incredible perspective on understanding the hidden barriers that hold us back - those sneaky excuses and self-doubts that prevent us from stepping into our true potential. We'll explore how to identify your limiting beliefs, understand where they come from, and most importantly, how to replace them with empowering thoughts that can dramatically change your life. Whether you're an entrepreneur, creative, or someone simply looking to level up, this conversation will give you practical strategies to rewire your thinking. Cliff will share his unique approach to uncovering what's really stopping you, and how to create neural associations that drive you towards your goals. Get ready for an eye-opening discussion that might just be the catalyst you need to break through your own mental barriers and start living the life you've always dreamed of. Let's dive in! Where to reach Our Guest https://www.cliffravenscraft.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/cliffravenscraft https://www.facebook.com/cliffravenscraft3 Hacks to take away Identifying Limiting Beliefs: Use a simple questioning technique to uncover your excuses and limiting beliefs by asking yourself what goals you have, what actions you know you need to take, and why you haven't started those actions yet. Reframing Unsubscribes and Negative Feedback: View unsubscribes or negative responses as a gift, not a personal failure. Focus on sharing content that resonates with your soul and passion, understanding that not everyone will connect with your message. Neurological Association of Pleasure and Pain: Create strong mental associations where taking action brings pleasure and avoiding action causes immediate, massive pain. This helps build motivation and consistency in pursuing your goals.…

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E715A - Cliff Ravenscraft - How to Eliminate Mental Barriers and Step into Your Extraordinary Life 40:16

6 weeks ago40:16