#344 It’s not the seed—it’s the setting.

Growth Instigators Hotline

#Business #Aaron Havens #Entrepreneur

32:12

DaQuane Cherry was once the kid who wore a hoodie to hide skin flare-ups in school. Now he’s an artist and advocate helping others feel seen. He reflects on his psoriasis journey, the power of small joys, and why loving yourself first isn’t a cliché—it’s essential. Plus, a deep dive into the history of La Roche-Posay’s legendary spring. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…

about a year ago 2:36

MP3•Episode home

"A seed can be perfect, but if the soil is toxic, it won't grow." This powerful metaphor sets the stage for an eye-opening exploration of why your environment matters more than your personal efforts when it comes to sustainable growth.
We've all experienced those moments of frustration—reading all the right books, putting in extra hours, pushing ourselves to improve, yet somehow hitting invisible barriers to our progress. As growth coach Aaron Havens reveals in this thought-provoking episode, the problem often isn't you—it's your setting. Drawing from W. Edward Deming's wisdom that "the environment always wins," Havens challenges us to shift our focus from individual strategies to the systems and cultures that surround us.
Through relatable examples and practical insights, this episode illuminates why good people struggle in bad systems, regardless of their talent or determination. It's like "planting a tomato in concrete"—the seed isn't the problem. Havens guides listeners through an honest assessment of their current environments, providing frameworks to determine if your surroundings are supportive or draining, honest or passive-aggressive, encouraging or needlessly competitive. For those in leadership positions, there's an added dimension of responsibility: creating cultures where others can genuinely flourish.
Ready to break through your growth ceiling? The solution might not be working harder but changing your environment entirely. Whether you're looking to transform your workplace culture or create more nurturing personal spaces, this episode offers both the wake-up call and practical direction needed to cultivate settings where growth happens naturally. Share your environmental challenges or reach out for support at growthinstigators.com—because sometimes the most powerful growth strategy is changing the soil, not the seed.

Chapters

1. Opening Metaphor: Seeds and Soil (00:00:00)

2. Thrive and Grow Thursday Introduction (00:00:15)

3. Your Environment Shapes Your Growth (00:00:35)

4. Assessing Your Current Environment (00:01:06)

5. Call to Action and Contact Information (00:01:19)

374 episodes

Growth Instigators Hotline

#344 It’s not the seed—it’s the setting.

Growth Instigators Hotline

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Chapters

1. Opening Metaphor: Seeds and Soil (00:00:00)

2. Thrive and Grow Thursday Introduction (00:00:15)

3. Your Environment Shapes Your Growth (00:00:35)

4. Assessing Your Current Environment (00:01:06)

5. Call to Action and Contact Information (00:01:19)

374 episodes

#Business #Aaron Havens #Entrepreneur

All episodes

Growth Instigators Hotline

1
#373 Are we chasing our tails? 2:59

6 hours ago2:59

2:59

Growth Instigators Hotline

1
#372 We all like feedback… to a degree! 2:56

1 day ago2:56

2:56

Feedback is a gift, not a grenade, revealing what we can't see about ourselves. The most effective leaders don't avoid feedback but actively seek it out, growing faster by inviting correction rather than avoiding it. • Our natural reaction to feedback often involves a stomach-dropping sensation like being on a rollercoaster • Harvard Business Review notes that effective leaders consistently ask for feedback • Feedback serves as a mirror revealing things we cannot see on our own • Defensiveness kills growth while curiosity fuels continuous improvement • When giving feedback, make it specific, kind, and actionable • Provide "micro-feedback" in the moment rather than waiting for annual reviews • Ask trusted people for one thing you could do better, then listen without defending • Feedback should serve growth, not ego I help leaders create feedback cultures rooted in trust and accountability. Shoot me a text if you'd like to chat about how I can help. What's one piece of feedback you've received that changed the way you lead? Let me know after the beep.…

Growth Instigators Hotline

1
#371 Are you curious? 2:45

2 days ago2:45

2:45

Ever noticed how toddlers relentlessly ask "why"? Far from being annoying, this habit exemplifies the purest form of intelligence—unbridled curiosity. When did we lose this superpower, and what happens when we reclaim it? Curiosity might just be the most underrated catalyst for personal and professional growth. Even Albert Einstein, arguably one of history's greatest minds, claimed he possessed "no special talents" but was "only passionately curious." This simple insight—that growth stops precisely where curiosity ends—changes everything about how we approach leadership, relationships, and self-development. The most dangerous phrase in business isn't "I don't know"; it's "we've always done it this way." When organizations and individuals become entrenched in certainty, innovation suffocates and irrelevance follows. The antidote? Learning to ask better questions. Starting with "what's one thing I learned today?" creates a perpetual learning orientation that gradually transforms fixed mindsets. For leaders, "what am I missing?" becomes the most powerful reflex, replacing defensiveness with wonder and inviting perspectives that might otherwise remain unheard. Curiosity builds bridges across differences and creates spaces where innovation flourishes naturally. Ready to break free from stale thinking patterns and recapture the curiosity that fuels discovery? Text me at 970-306-6432 or visit growthinstigators.com to explore how we can work together to create a culture where questions lead to breakthroughs and continuous growth becomes your competitive advantage. What's one area of your life where curiosity could open a new door?…

Growth Instigators Hotline

1
#370 Passion 2:30

5 days ago2:30

2:30

Passion transforms how we engage with work and life, helping us find energy in obligation and meaning in mundane tasks. When connected to something that truly lights us up, we develop resilience that carries us through challenges because our purpose speaks louder than temporary discomfort. • Showing up with energy instead of obligation when connected to work that excites us • Pushing through difficult days because our "why" is louder than our "ugh" • Finding meaning in mundane tasks by understanding their connection to our larger purpose • Using the "whistling while you work" test to gauge your passion and fulfillment • Examining areas where passion might be missing in your life • Recognizing that passion provides perspective, not just blind positivity What's that whistle tune from? And what's one area where passion is missing in your life and how could you bring it back? Leave us a message after the beep, and as always, keep instigating growth in all you do.…

Growth Instigators Hotline

1
#369 Staying Positive During Setbacks 2:37

6 days ago2:37

2:37

Setbacks are powerful teachers that wake us up through unexpected storms. Positivity during difficulties isn't about fake optimism but developing grit, perspective, and asking better questions when faced with challenges. • See the signal in your setback – most derailments are disguised invitations and feedback • Protect your mindset during turbulent times by reminding yourself this won't last • Reframe the setback – history is full of leaders who built empires from rock bottom • Approach challenges as if they're happening for you, not to you • Setbacks create openings where real growth can finally breathe If today's message resonated with you, text me. I can help you or your team through challenging times—you're not alone in this storm. Keep instigating growth in all you do.…

Growth Instigators Hotline

1
#368 No music. No medal. Just silence. 2:31

7 days ago2:31

2:31

Growth Instigators Hotline

1
#367 Eating a bag of chips 2:59

8 days ago2:59

2:59

Ever caught yourself mindlessly finishing an entire bag of chips when you planned to eat just one? That's the hidden power of micro actions—small behaviors that compound quickly, shaping our lives in profound ways. Small, consistent actions shape your future more profoundly than occasional moments of inspiration or motivation. While our culture celebrates the big breakthrough, the viral moment, and the overnight success, true excellence emerges from the quiet, consistent decisions we make daily. These micro choices—often invisible to others—gradually construct our habits, skills, and ultimately, our identities. Think of it like a dripping faucet. One drop seems insignificant, but over time, those drops fill glasses, sinks, and bathtubs. The same principle applies to both growth and decline in our lives. As James Clear wisely notes, "You get what you repeat." Are you repeating focus or distraction? Gratitude or complaint? Growth or stagnation? The compounding effect works in all directions. The good news? You can harness this power starting today. Don't wait for perfect circumstances or motivation to strike. Begin with the next small action that aligns with who you want to become: write one sentence, drink one glass of water, take one deep breath before responding. Your legacy isn't built in dramatic leaps—it's constructed through countless small steps taken consistently over time. What micro action will you commit to repeating this week? Text me to discuss how we can work together to instigate meaningful growth in your life or organization.…

Growth Instigators Hotline

1
#366 The Power of Relational Awareness 2:45

9 days ago2:45

2:45

Communication without awareness has consequences, and emotional intelligence extends beyond self-awareness to understanding how your mindset impacts those around you. Leadership is felt long before it's heard, with your emotional energy entering the room before you even speak. • When leaders carry frustration into meetings, everyone feels the tension even if they can't name it • Daniel Goleman teaches that emotional abilities and self-awareness are essential for success regardless of intelligence • Learning relational awareness often happens the hard way through bulldozing past the emotional tone we set • People need both your expertise and your healthy presence • Practical relational awareness includes taking 30 seconds to center yourself before meetings • Notice body language and emotional shifts in others • Own your impact, not just your intent or words What's one shift you can make to lead with more emotional and relational awareness? Keep instigating growth in all you do.…

Growth Instigators Hotline

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#365 Where did you park your car? 2:43

12 days ago2:43

2:43

Growth Instigators Hotline

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#364 How Environment Impacts Motivation 2:39

13 days ago2:39

2:39

Why does motivation seem to flow effortlessly in certain spaces while completely abandoning us in others? This question sits at the heart of our exploration into how physical environments shape our drive, focus, and productivity. Most of us have experienced the frustration of trying to work in counterproductive spaces—where flickering lights, uncomfortable temperatures, or distracting noises sabotage our best intentions. Yet we rarely connect these environmental factors to our motivation levels, instead blaming ourselves for lacking discipline or willpower. This misplaced responsibility creates unnecessary frustration when the solution might be far simpler than developing stronger mental fortitude. Through personal examples, I share how discovering the perfect coffee shop environment increased my productivity tenfold compared to working from home. This revelation led me to create multiple distinct workspaces that I alternate between throughout the day, each supporting different types of thinking and energy levels. Drawing insights from Steven Pressfield's "The War of Art," we explore how our surroundings directly influence what we focus on, how long we maintain that focus, and whether we feel energized to return to that work again tomorrow. The most powerful takeaway is that environment-based motivation is largely within our control. Small, intentional adjustments to our workspaces can dramatically reduce the willpower needed to stay productive. Whether you're struggling with personal motivation or leading a team that seems perpetually stuck in low gear, examining the physical and cultural environment might reveal the missing piece in your productivity puzzle. What single change could you make to your environment today that would help you stay motivated and focused? Share your thoughts after the beep—I'm genuinely curious to hear what works for you.…

Growth Instigators Hotline

1
#363 Own your paddle 2:53

14 days ago2:53

2:53

Growth Instigators Hotline

1
#362 Enjoy the flight! 2:43

15 days ago2:43

2:43

Tracking your progress is essential for meaningful growth, as flying blind with just good intentions leads to crash landings rather than real development. • "You can't grow what you don't track" is the central message of this episode • Effort doesn't automatically equal progress without measurement • Likens growth without tracking to a pilot flying without instruments • Tracking reveals patterns, points out waste, and shows where you're winning • Simple systems work best if they're consistent - weekly check-ins, whiteboards, or journal questions • Making regular adjustments based on tracking data is key to continuous improvement Visit growthinstigators.com to learn how Aaron can help your team create systems that clarify progress and drive high-performance habits.…

Growth Instigators Hotline

1
#361 Today wants to punch you in the face 2:39

16 days ago2:39

2:39

Ever tried to smile through a Monday that's already throwing punches? You're not alone. Resilience is widely misunderstood in our high-achievement culture. Many think it's about never showing weakness or maintaining relentless positivity in the face of challenges. But as this episode reveals, true resilience has nothing to do with never getting knocked down – it's about refusing to stay there. The Growth Instigators Hotline takes an honest look at what building a resilient mindset actually involves. We explore why acknowledging what's difficult isn't weakness but the foundation of authentic grit. You'll discover why tiny forward movements matter more than dramatic leaps, and why endurance ultimately outvalues enthusiasm in both personal growth and professional success. Aaron Havens breaks down practical approaches to resilience that apply whether you're facing a coffee-spilled Monday or leading a team through organizational challenges. The episode introduces Angela Duckworth's powerful perspective that "enthusiasm is common, endurance is rare," offering listeners a refreshing alternative to toxic positivity. Whether you're building personal resilience muscles or creating a culture that doesn't break under pressure, this episode provides actionable insights for transforming your relationship with adversity. Ready to punch Monday back and show up stronger tomorrow? Visit growthinstigators.com to learn how Aaron can help your team develop resistance that thrives under pressure.…

Growth Instigators Hotline

1
#360 Good for you! Congrats. You made it… 2:45

19 days ago2:45

2:45

Purpose is the essential engine behind everything that lasts, and without alignment to what matters most, achievements feel hollow. No matter how impressive your resume becomes, true fulfillment only comes when your actions connect with your authentic values and desired impact. • Success without purpose leads to emptiness despite achievements • Your purpose doesn't need to be grand - just authentic to your values • Take time to reflect on why you're doing what you're doing • Clarity develops through reflection, not immediate answers • Sometimes you need a new perspective, not a new life • Purpose gives meaning to hardship, not elimination of challenges • Viktor Frankl's wisdom: having a why helps bear any how Visit growthinstigators.com or text Aaron at 970-306-6432 to discuss how he can help leaders reconnect with purpose. Leave Aaron a message answering: what's one area of your life where purpose feels cloudy and how can you start clarifying it?…

Growth Instigators Hotline

1
#359 Leveraging Strengths for Growth 2:59

20 days ago2:59

2:59

Your strengths aren't just nice-to-have qualities but powerful engines for accelerated growth and development. Building on what you're naturally good at creates more energy, confidence, and results than constantly trying to fix your weaknesses. • Poll question: Do you focus more on improving weaknesses or strengths? • You grow faster when building on what you're great at • Personal story of losing momentum in strengths while fixing weaknesses • The strengths-based approach increases energy and confidence • We often downplay our natural talents because they come easily • Your "zone of genius" might be someone else's daily struggle • Double down on strengths you've been treating as ordinary • Apply your strengths in new situations (encouragement in conflict, analytics in relationships) • Marcus Buckingham: "You grow most in your areas of strengths" • Operating from strengths builds confidence and resilience What's one strength you've been underusing that you're ready to lean into this week? Leave a message after the beep.…

Growth Instigators Hotline

1
#358 Relational Leadership 2:55

21 days ago2:55

2:55

Growth Instigators Hotline

1
#357 You don’t have to change the world in one day! 2:53

22 days ago2:53

2:53

Attempting multiple habit changes simultaneously almost always leads to failure, while focusing on identity-driven habits creates sustainable transformation. The key to lasting change is building habits aligned with who you want to become rather than just what you want to achieve. • Aaron confesses to once trying to develop six habits at once, resulting in wasted resources • Professional golfers focus on process (technique, one stroke at a time) rather than outcomes • Performance that lasts is built on identity-driven discipline, not just chasing results • Focus on becoming a writer rather than just writing more • Pick ONE area to grow instead of diluting your efforts across multiple fronts • Attach new habits to your identity using "I'm the kind of person who..." • Make habits small enough to repeat consistently • Momentum beats motivation for sustainable growth What's one identity-aligned habit you're ready to build this week? Visit growthinstigators.com or text 970-306-6432 to discuss how Aaron can help your team install habits that actually stick.…

Growth Instigators Hotline

1
#356 Here’s how to 10X your strengths. 2:52

23 days ago2:52

2:52

Growth Instigators Hotline

1
#355 Let freedom ring baby! 1:15

26 days ago1:15

1:15

Growth Instigators Hotline

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#354 The Courage to Reinvent Yourself 2:46

27 days ago2:46

2:46

The snake doesn't shed its skin because something's wrong—it does so because growth demands it. This powerful metaphor forms the foundation of today's exploration into personal reinvention and the courage it requires. We often misinterpret discomfort in our careers and personal lives as failure when it's actually a natural signal of growth. That role you once loved, the systems you built, your way of showing up—they served you well in the past, but maturity means recognizing when these familiar patterns have become constraints rather than catalysts. The central message resonates throughout: "Reinvention isn't failure, it's maturity." The journey toward reinvention begins with honest self-assessment. Where are you forcing something that used to flow? What aspects of your life feel stale or misaligned? These questions aren't about finding fault but identifying opportunity. By visualizing what the next version of yourself would do differently—what they'd embrace, what they'd no longer tolerate—you create a roadmap for evolution. Most powerfully, this episode reminds us that transformation doesn't require grand announcements or dramatic overnight changes. It starts with small, intentional shifts that honor your emerging self. The version of you that's evolving isn't rejecting your past—it's celebrating your remarkable capacity to grow. For those navigating personal or organizational transitions, I offer support in moving forward with clarity and strategy. What small shift could you make this week that aligns with the next version of you waiting to emerge? Your reinvention story is just beginning.…

Growth Instigators Hotline

1
#353 The Role of Vulnerability in Leadership 2:56

28 days ago2:56

2:56

Vulnerability builds stronger leadership by creating authentic connections. Brené Brown reminds us that vulnerability means having the courage to show up when we can't control the outcome. • Pretending to have it all together is exhausting and overrated • Vulnerability doesn't weaken leadership—it deepens it • Being human while leading makes people lean in and want more • Saying "I don't know" adds value to what you do say • Vulnerability builds trust faster than perfection • People follow real leaders, not flawless ones • When leaders show vulnerability, team members become more courageous • Vulnerability transforms leadership from performance into connection Visit growthinstigators.com or text 970-306-6432 to learn how Aaron helps leaders unlock deeper connection through honest, human-centered leadership.…

Growth Instigators Hotline

1
#352 You don’t rise to the level of your goals… 2:40

29 days ago2:40

2:40

Growth Instigators Hotline

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#351 Leading with a messed-up mindset. 2:58

4 weeks ago2:58

2:58

Your mindset isn't just a personal matter—it's the foundation of your leadership effectiveness. Just as trying to sprint with a twisted ankle limits your physical performance, leading with a damaged mindset hampers your entire leadership capacity. This episode explores how the power of positive expectations fundamentally transforms leadership outcomes. When two leaders walk into identical meetings—one expecting resistance, the other connection—they create entirely different experiences despite identical external circumstances. Your expectations shape everything from your body language to your tone of voice, and ultimately determine the responses you receive from others. The self-fulfilling nature of expectations is particularly powerful in leadership contexts. As Zig Ziglar wisely noted, "positive thinking won't let you do anything, but it will let you do everything better than negative thinking will." When you expect the worst, you unknowingly encourage it through subtle signals that others instantly detect. Conversely, positive expectations create courage and permission for your team to rise to challenges. This doesn't mean adopting blind optimism or ignoring potential obstacles. Rather, it means facing reality while maintaining faith in your ability to navigate challenges successfully. Your mindset as a leader gives permission—whether that's permission to retreat into cynicism or permission to pursue ambitious goals with confidence. Ready to transform your leadership approach through mindset work? If your team culture is being shaped by negative narratives, I can help you shift to leading with expectancy. Visit growthinstigators.com or text 970-306-6432 to discover how we can work together to create positive expectations that drive better outcomes for your entire organization.…

Growth Instigators Hotline

1
Purposeful Productivity 2:55

5 weeks ago2:55

2:55

Have you ever found yourself racing through life with a packed calendar but an empty soul? That disconnection signals a critical misalignment between your actions and your deeper purpose. In this transformative episode, we dive deep into what I call "impressive wandering" – that peculiar state where you're checking all the boxes, perhaps even achieving considerable success, but still feeling fundamentally unfulfilled. Like having a perfect compass and detailed map while having no idea where you actually want to go. The truth is refreshingly simple yet profoundly challenging: fulfillment doesn't come from doing more; it comes from doing what actually matters. As Simon Sinek wisely observes, working hard for something we don't care about creates stress, while working hard for something we love generates passion. This distinction changes everything about how we experience our daily work. When we align our actions with our purpose, three powerful shifts occur. First, purpose gives meaning to even mundane tasks. Second, alignment clarifies decision-making, allowing us to move with greater conviction. Finally, we reclaim the energy that misalignment constantly drains from us. The question worth pondering is: where in your life are your actions and purpose not lining up? Identifying this gap is the first step toward meaningful change. Ready to move beyond impressive wandering and into purposeful growth? Visit growthinstigators.com or text me at 970-306-6432 to discover how we can help you rediscover your purpose and build systems that truly reflect it. Your calendar may be full—but it's time your soul returned from vacation.…

Growth Instigators Hotline

1
#349 Activity doesn’t equal growth. 2:36

5 weeks ago2:36

2:36

Activity without direction is just motion, not growth—like a hamster running on a wheel versus a gardener patiently waiting for seeds to take root. The difference between being busy and being effective lies in whether your actions align with your values, mission, and future. • Movement without reflection leads to burnout • Direction matters more than hustle • Ask if what you're doing contributes to where you want to go • Growth is slower than motion but deeper • Don't mistake speed for success Do you need instigation in your growth? If your team is stuck in cycles of activity without real development, I help leaders refocus on intentional growth. Visit growthinstigators.com or text me at 970-306-6432 to chat about how I can help.…

Growth Instigators Hotline

1
#348 Let’s talk about momentum. 2:59

5 weeks ago2:59

2:59

Momentum is the critical force that turns stagnation into progress, requiring more energy to start than to maintain once in motion. Like a car that's easier to steer, accelerate and harder to stop once rolling, our leadership and thinking follow the same principle - movement creates clarity, progress builds confidence, and small wins lead to breakthroughs. • Momentum isn't magic - it's motion with direction • You don't need to build the entire staircase, just take the first step • When you feel stuck, get one thing moving - that first step is crucial • Momentum reduces resistance and helps you see more opportunities than problems • Each win builds belief and tells your brain "I can do this" • When leaders create momentum, energy spreads and confidence multiplies throughout teams Visit growthinstigators.com or text me at 970-306-6432 to schedule a discovery call if your team feels stuck or slow-moving. I'd love to hear what small win you could pursue this week to create momentum in your life.…

Growth Instigators Hotline

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#347 Are you under pressure? Now were talking!! 2:34

5 weeks ago2:34

2:34

Growth Instigators Hotline

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#346 If you can’t picture it, you’ll struggle to pursue it. 2:55

5 weeks ago2:55

2:55

Visualization is a powerful tool for achieving success because the brain doesn't fully distinguish between well-rehearsed mental images and lived experiences. When we pair purpose with imagination, we rewire our mindset to expect success rather than fear failure. • "If you can't picture it, you'll struggle to pursue it" • Visualization programs your focus, energy, and expectations • Top athletes, surgeons, and leaders use visualization before important performances • Dennis Waitley calls visualization "daydreaming with a purpose" • Visualization shrinks fear by building familiarity • It boosts confidence by letting you see success ahead of time • Regular visualization aligns your habits with your hopes • The practice helps you become rehearsed rather than reactive Visit growthinstigators.com to schedule a discovery call if your team needs help clarifying future goals and getting aligned. Share what vision you want to visualize more clearly and how practicing visualization this week could impact your confidence by emailing Aaron@growthinstigators.com.…

Growth Instigators Hotline

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#345 Who has gone ahead of you that you respect! 2:46

6 weeks ago2:46

2:46

Mentorship shortens the distance between where you are and where you're going by providing wisdom from someone who has already faced similar challenges. Having a guide who has climbed the mountain before you can completely transform your journey – not because they're perfect, but because they've gained valuable insights from their failures and successes. • Mentors provide clarity when your vision is cloudy • They tell hard truths when you're veering off course • They offer encouragement when you need motivation • Mentorship doesn't require formal arrangements – coffee conversations or weekly check-ins can be powerful • Asking "how would you handle this if you were in my shoes?" can provide valuable perspective • Consider both finding a mentor and becoming one for others Leave a message after the beep or send an email to Aaron at growthinstigators.com and let me know who's one mentor who shaped your growth journey and what's one area of your life or leadership where you'd love guidance right now. If your organization is looking to build stronger mentoring structures or leadership pipelines, I help leaders and organizations design systems that multiply wisdom. Visit growthinstigators.com and let's schedule a discovery call.…

Growth Instigators Hotline

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#344 It’s not the seed—it’s the setting. 2:36

6 weeks ago2:36