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Turning Overwhelm into Opportunity with Matthew Arau
Manage episode 473080612 series 3598827
🎧 Episode Overview
What if burnout wasn’t a sign of weakness—but a signal to shift?
Dr. Matthew Arau knows what it’s like to carry the weight of expectations, excellence, and exhaustion. From directing award-winning bands to leading educators through a global crisis, he looked like he had it all together. But inside? He was breaking.
In this soul-deep conversation, we talk about the birth of Upbeat Global, how mindfulness practices saved his sanity, and how the simple act of writing “GET” on a to-do list became the spiritual spark that reignited his life and leadership.
💥 Whether you're in music, business, or ministry—this episode will help you slow down, breathe deep, and lead better.
💡 Key Takeaways from This Episode
🔴 When Music and Leadership Collide
Matthew’s journey from high school band director to national leadership coach Started when he fused music education with personal growth practices to change toxic culture into thriving student leadership.
🔴 From Pandemic Panic to Purpose
During COVID-19, Matthew found himself guiding educators through impossible challenges. His burnout became fuel for something bigger: teaching mindfulness and mindset across the nation.
🔴 The Origin of “GET”
A cold Wisconsin morning. A memory of 9/11. A to-do list that became a gratitude list. And a new mantra was born: “I GET to.”
🔴 G = Gratitude | E = Enthusiasm | T = Treasure
This acronym became more than a mindset—it became a movement. School districts, entrepreneurs, and leaders now use “GET” to reframe stress and unlock joy in the moment.
🔴 Your Dream Must Be Bigger Than Your Doubt
You don’t need to wait until you feel ready. You just need to care more about the mission than the fear.
📚 Resources & Guest Info
🌐 Take the Quiz: https://www.powerofget.com
📕 Book: Upbeat: Mindset, Mindfulness, and Leadership in Music Education and Beyond
📔 Upbeat Daily Journal & Planner
📲 Socials: @MatthewArau
💼 Website: https://www.upbeatglobal.com
🎯 Final CTA
If this episode hit you deep—share it with a friend who needs a reset.
Rate, review, and subscribe to Grace in the Grind.
Let’s lead well, live fully, and never forget—we GET to do this.
🔔 New episodes drop weekly.
Follow Jim on socials @LeadWithJim and grab a free leadership resource at www.leadwithjim.com.
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