How To Build Character Through Habits, Purpose, And Play With Dr. Arthur Schwartz Learning From Your World podcast

The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt

51:57

On the Season 2 debut of Lost Cultures: Living Legacies , we travel to Bermuda, an Atlantic island whose history spans centuries and continents. Once uninhabited, Bermuda became a vital stop in transatlantic trade, a maritime stronghold, and a cultural crossroads shaped by African, European, Caribbean, and Native American influences. Guests Dr. Kristy Warren and Dr. Edward Harris trace its transformation from an uninhabited island to a strategic outpost shaped by shipwrecks, colonization, the transatlantic slave trade, and the rise and fall of empires. Plus, former Director of Tourism Gary Phillips shares the story of the Gombey tradition, a vibrant performance art rooted in resistance, migration, and cultural fusion. Together, they reveal how Bermuda’s layered past continues to shape its people, culture, and identity today. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

Learning From Your World »
How to Build Character Through Habits, Purpose, and Play With Dr. Arthur Schwartz

about a year ago 38:01

MP3•Episode home

In Part 2 of my conversation with Dr. Arthur Schwartz, President of Character.org and a leading voice in moral development, we explore what it really takes to build character and live with purpose.

We discuss:
- What Really Drives Action: Why character is about behavior, not just beliefs, and how to act on what matters most.
- The Power of Purpose: How even simple goals (like a push-up contest) can provide meaning and motivation.
- Rewiring Your Inner Voice: How to reshape negative self-talk through daily value-based habits.
- The Role of Environment and Culture: How your surroundings shape your character…and how to build the culture you need to grow.

Challenge:
Find an image that represents the kind of character you want to build, and keep it somewhere visible as a daily reminder.

Resources:

Soar with Your Strengths by Donald O. Clifton

The Righteous Mind by Jonathan Haidt

The Coddling of the American Mind by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt

Chatter by Ethan Kross

Grit by Angela Duckworth

The Path to Purpose by William Damon

41 episodes

#Careers #Business #Self-Improvement #Christina Wenman #Podcasting Education #I Talk

How to Build Character Through Habits, Purpose, and Play With Dr. Arthur Schwartz

Learning From Your World

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

In Part 2 of my conversation with Dr. Arthur Schwartz, President of Character.org and a leading voice in moral development, we explore what it really takes to build character and live with purpose.

Challenge:
Find an image that represents the kind of character you want to build, and keep it somewhere visible as a daily reminder.

Resources:

The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt

Soar with Your Strengths by Donald O. Clifton

The Righteous Mind by Jonathan Haidt

The Coddling of the American Mind by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt

Chatter by Ethan Kross

Grit by Angela Duckworth

The Path to Purpose by William Damon

41 episodes

#Careers #Business #Self-Improvement #Christina Wenman #Podcasting Education #I Talk

All episodes

Learning From Your World

1
How to Build Character Through Habits, Purpose, and Play With Dr. Arthur Schwartz 38:01

5 weeks ago38:01

38:01

In Part 2 of my conversation with Dr. Arthur Schwartz, President of Character.org and a leading voice in moral development, we explore what it really takes to build character and live with purpose. We discuss: - What Really Drives Action: Why character is about behavior, not just beliefs, and how to act on what matters most. - The Power of Purpose: How even simple goals (like a push-up contest) can provide meaning and motivation. - Rewiring Your Inner Voice: How to reshape negative self-talk through daily value-based habits. - The Role of Environment and Culture: How your surroundings shape your character…and how to build the culture you need to grow. Challenge: Find an image that represents the kind of character you want to build, and keep it somewhere visible as a daily reminder. Resources: The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt Soar with Your Strengths by Donald O. Clifton The Righteous Mind by Jonathan Haidt The Coddling of the American Mind by Greg Lukianoff and Jonathan Haidt Chatter by Ethan Kross Grit by Angela Duckworth The Path to Purpose by William Damon…

Learning From Your World

1
Is Empathy Enough? The Hidden Cost of Good Intentions With Dr. Arthur Schwartz 26:27

6 weeks ago26:27

26:27

Is empathy enough to create real change? In this episode, I talk with Dr. Arthur Schwartz, President of Character.org and lifelong advocate for character development, about why empathy alone doesn’t create change, and what it really takes to live with integrity, purpose, and courage. We discuss: - Why Empathy Isn’t Enough: What most people get wrong about empathy, and how too much of it can block justice and enable harm. - Character vs. Compliance: The difference between doing the right thing because you have to vs. because it’s who you are. - Building A Virtue Habit: How Arthur built a gratitude practice from scratch and why small habits matter. Challenge: Choose a character trait that doesn't come naturally to you, and create a small daily habit to practice it. Resources: FREE VIA Character Survey Soar With Your Strengths by Donald Clifton (Book) StrengthFinder 2.0 (Book) Chatter by Ethan Kross (Book) Character.org…

Learning From Your World

1
Escaping the Linear World: Nonlinear Thinking with Perry Knoppert (Part 2) 46:29

7 weeks ago46:29

46:29

What if your mind was never meant to fit the system? In this episode, Perry Knoppert shares what happened after he gave everything up, and what he built. From living without a home to founding the Octopus Movement, Perry explores the power of nonlinear thinking and creating outside the lines. *This is Part 2 of our conversation. In Part 1, Perry shares how his journey began. We talk about: The moment he realized his brain didn’t belong in a linear world The difference between creativity and innovation What AI can’t do, and why human intelligence has never been more essential How fear shapes our world and what it takes to shift from conformity to connection Challenge (at 00:43:00): Perry shares a personal technique to quiet your mind and access stillness in a noisy world. The Octopus Movement Website…

Learning From Your World

1
Losing Everything to Learn Everything: Perry Knoppert on Homelessness, Mental Health, and Starting Over (Part 1) 30:41

8 weeks ago30:41

30:41

What happens when someone steps outside the system? In this episode, Perry Knoppert, founder of The Octopus Movement, shares the story of the seven months he spent without a home. What began as a personal decision rooted in curiosity quickly became a deeper experience of disconnection, challenge, and insight. With honesty and reflection, Perry talks about: Why he gave everything up, and what happened next The emotional and mental toll of being unhoused The unexpected phone call that helped him begin again…

Learning From Your World

1
The Truth About Narcissists: Why They Manipulate & Distort Reality With Chelsey Brooke Cole 54:59

9 weeks ago54:59

54:59

After an overwhelming response to our first conversation, I had to bring Chelsey back for round two! In this follow-up, the licensed psychotherapist and author answers listener questions, breaking down narcissistic behavior and how to heal from toxic relationships. We explore: Grandiose vs. covert narcissists - how they manipulate differently. Why narcissists distort reality and avoid responsibility. How to rebuild confidence and regain control after narcissistic abuse. Challenge: At [00:52:00], Chelsey encourages listeners to take one small step toward healing - replace an unhealthy habit with a simple, positive action to strengthen your nervous system and self-trust. Resources: Chelsey’s Book: If Only I’d Known Narcissism Quizzes Narcissism Resources…

Learning From Your World

1
How Peace Corps Director Dr. Jody Olsen Led 7,000 Volunteers to Safety—And What It Taught Her About Life 54:21

10 weeks ago54:21

54:21

In this episode, I talk with Dr. Jody Olsen, former Peace Corps Director and global leader, about embracing courage, building trust, and making bold life decisions. From her unexpected leap into the Peace Corps in the 1960s to leading the evacuation of 7,000 volunteers during the COVID-19 pandemic, Dr. Olsen shares her journey of stepping into the unknown, making high-stakes decisions, and fostering deep human connection across cultures. We discuss: The Decision That Changed Everything - How one moment led Dr. Jody Olsen to the Peace Corps and reshaped her entire life. The Power of Vulnerability and Trust - Why embracing uncertainty and relying on others is key to building strong relationships. Making Tough Calls Under Pressure - The inside story of how Dr. Olsen led the evacuation of 7,000 Peace Corps volunteers at the height of the pandemic. The Loneliness Epidemic & How to Rebuild Meaningful Connections – Why so many people feel disconnected today and practical ways to strengthen relationships in a digital world. Challenge: At [00:51:47], Dr. Olsen shares her challenge: Tell a story, be a mentor, or find a hero. She urges us to connect more deeply by sharing wisdom across generations, offering guidance to others, and seeking role models in our everyday lives. Resources: Dr. Jody Olsen’s book, A Million Miles Bowling Alone by Robert Putnam (on the power of community)…

Learning From Your World

1
Lead with Vision: How Visual Thinking Transforms Leadership With Todd Cherches 44:45

11 weeks ago44:45

44:45

In this episode, I talk with Todd Cherches - CEO of Big Blue Gumball, NYU professor, TEDx speaker, and author of Visual Leadership - to explore how visual thinking transforms leadership, communication, and problem-solving. We explore why leadership isn’t just about titles, but about how you see, think, and connect with others. We discuss: Why leadership is about influence - not job titles. How visual thinking strengthens memory, communication, and problem-solving. The power of metaphors, props, and mental models in making ideas stick and strengthening connections. Challenge: Todd encourages us to become more aware of the metaphors we use and those used by others. This week, listen for metaphors in everyday conversations and try incorporating ones that resonate with your audience to build better connections. Resources: Todd’s Website Book: Visual Leadership: Leveraging the Power of Visual Thinking in Leadership and in Life TED Talk: The Power of Visual Thinking…

Learning From Your World

1
The Power of Connection: Healing Anxiety and Despair with Dr. Chinwé Williams 50:11

12 weeks ago50:11

50:11

In this episode, I explore the critical role of connection in mental health with Dr. Chinwé Williams - licensed counselor, trauma therapist, and co-author of Beyond the Spiral and Seen. We discuss how anxiety and despair impact the brain, why true healing requires relationships, and how we can foster deeper, more meaningful support systems in our lives. We discuss: - Why feeling seen is essential for emotional well-being. - How connection rewires the brain and reduces anxiety. - How to help others feel truly heard - without trying to "fix" them. Challenge: Dr. Chinwé introduces three powerful words, "tell me more," as a tool for deeper connection. This week, practice using this phrase in conversations and notice how it changes the way people open up to you. Resources: - Dr. Chinwé’s Website - Beyond the Spiral: Why You Shouldn’t Believe Everything Anxiety Tells You - Seen: Healing Despair and Anxiety in Kids Through the Power of Connection…

Learning From Your World

1
The Ninja Mindset: How Martial Arts Builds Confidence, Resilience, and Mental Strength (Part 2) 46:55

13 weeks ago46:55

46:55

In this episode, Cheryl Ilov returns to dive deeper into the philosophy of martial arts, the neuroscience of movement, and how training rewires both body and mind. We explore the principles that make Ninpo Taijutsu more than just self-defense - it’s a lifelong practice of resilience, strategy, and adaptability. We discuss: Why martial arts builds mental toughness, problem-solving skills, and confidence. How movement reshapes the brain through neuroplasticity. The unexpected ways martial arts can be a path to healing, empowerment, and personal transformation. Challenge: At [42:50], Cheryl explains the importance of embracing fear and discomfort in small, intentional ways. This week, choose one thing that pushes you outside your comfort zone and reflect on the experience. Resources: Cheryl’s Website FemiNinja Podcast The Reluctant Ninja Book Forever Fit and Flexible Book…

Learning From Your World

1
The Reluctant Ninja: Healing Trauma Through Movement (Part 1) 36:45

14 weeks ago36:45

36:45

In this episode, I talk with Cheryl Ilov (movement expert, author, and podcast host) about how training in Ninpo Taijutsu helped her heal from trauma, rebuild her confidence, and redefine her sense of strength. After years of resistance, she discovered that martial arts offered a unique path to empowerment. At 57, she became her teacher’s first female black belt, proving that transformation is possible at any stage of life. We discuss: How an unexpected introduction to martial arts became a turning point in Cheryl’s healing journey. The role movement plays in trauma recovery and why martial arts is particularly powerful. How facing fear, whether in training or life, can rewire the brain for resilience and confidence. Resources: Cheryl’s Website FemiNinja Podcast The Reluctant Ninja Book Forever Fit and Flexible Book…

Learning From Your World

1
Rethinking Burnout: The Power of Energy Management with Avery Thatcher 53:09

15 weeks ago53:09

53:09

In this episode, I talk with Avery Thatcher, burnout specialist and former ICU nurse, about rethinking stress management, recovering from burnout, and building sustainable energy resilience. We discuss: Why managing energy works better than managing stress—and what most strategies get wrong. The four types of energy and how they each lead to burnout. How burnout is shaped by larger societal pressures, not just personal choices. Challenge: At [00:49:22], Avery shares her challenge to rethink your morning routine. Instead of a rigid to-do list, focus on how you want to feel and choose actions that align with creating that foundation. Resources: Avery’s Website Kelly McGonigal’s TED Talk on stress perception .…

Learning From Your World

1
The Story Behind Learning From Your World: Connection, Courage, and Curiosity 10:09

16 weeks ago10:09

10:09

In this solo episode, I share the backstory of Learning From Your World - why I started this podcast, how it's evolved, and the surprising themes that have emerged from my conversations. I discuss: How the book I wrote at 16 led to the podcast. Why connection and courage are the two forces that shape our lives - and how they reinforce each other. The "two wheels" analogy - how connection creates momentum and drives growth. Challenge: At [09:10], I challenge you (and myself!) to take one small action today: strengthen a connection, start a new one, or do something that scares you. New episodes drop every Wednesday - subscribe to stay connected!…

Learning From Your World

1
Recognizing and Healing from Narcissistic Abuse with Chelsey Brooke Cole 54:29

30 weeks ago54:29

54:29

In this episode, I talk with Chelsey Brooke Cole, licensed psychotherapist, speaker, and author, about understanding narcissistic behavior, healing from narcissistic abuse, and fostering personal growth after trauma. We discuss: - The difference between narcissistic traits and narcissistic personality disorder. - The cycle of narcissistic abuse and its impact on victims. - Recognizing red flags, gaslighting, and DARVO in relationships. Challenge: At [00:52:28], Chelsey encourages listeners to start a documentation practice. Write down your interactions and feelings to help validate your experiences and spot manipulation patterns. Resources: - Chelsey’s book, If Only I’d Known - Chelsey’s Website - Chelsey's LinkedIn…

Learning From Your World

1
Mastering The Art of Conscious Conversations With Chuck Wisner 54:26

31 weeks ago54:26

54:26

In this episode, I talk with Chuck Wisner, author of The Art of Conscious Conversations , to explore how conscious communication can transform our relationships and professional lives. We discuss: - The power of internal narratives in shaping our external interactions. - How to use self-reflection to reveal and adjust our personal biases and judgments. - Practical strategies for fostering better storytelling, collaborative, creative, and commitment-focused conversations. Challenge: At [0:50:40], Chuck encourages us to write four key elements on a sticky note: desires, concerns, authority issues, and standards. Use this tool in your next conversation to investigate your own thinking and as a template to ask great questions. Resources: - "The Art of Conscious Conversations" Book - Chuck's Website - Chuck's LinkedIn…

Learning From Your World

1
Why Authentic Language Matters With Andy Weins 1:23:04

32 weeks ago1:23:04

1:23:04

In this episode, I talk with Andy Weins, author, entrepreneur, and army veteran, about the impact of language on our reality, psychological resilience, and the role of authenticity in personal and professional life. We discuss: How the language we use shapes our emotions and actions. The power of authenticity in building stronger connections and self-acceptance. How to cultivate a growth mindset and overcome self-limiting beliefs. Challenge: At [1:20:00], Andy challenges us to start each day by expressing gratitude to someone, using the phrase “I feel [emotion] when you….” This practice fosters self-awareness and encourages meaningful communication. Resources: - Andy's book - Andy's website - Experience Andy Weins Live…

Learning From Your World

1
Discovering Your Dream Job and the Power of Storytelling With Mikki Williams 39:04

2 years ago39:04

39:04

In this episode, Mikki and I talk about the power of storytelling and the tools she created to live a fulfilling life and find her dream job. We discuss: - The 4 objectives that led Mikki to find her dream job. - The experience list she created to live a more fulfilling and exciting life. - Mikki’s tips to become a great storyteller. Challenge: At [34:42], Mikki shares something she created called the PIES challenge. Over the next 30 days, take at least one of each of the following: physical risk, intellectual risk, emotional risk, and spiritual risk. Resources: Mikki's Website…

Learning From Your World

1
Finding Your Greatness Zone With Jay Forte 40:03

2 years ago40:03

40:03

In this episode, Jay and I talk about authenticity and what it means to be in our Greatness Zone. We discuss: - What our "greatness zone" is and how stopping and noticing can help you find it. - How our greatness zone changes over time. - Why being in your greatness zone improves the lives of the people around you. Challenge: At [38:28], Jay shares a habit that you can start tonight to interrupt the "busy" and create an inventory for what is working vs. what is not working. Resources: The Forte Factor The Greatness Zone Book…

Learning From Your World

1
A Vow to Live Bigger With Barbara Majeski 47:20

2 years ago47:20

47:20

In this episode, I talk with TV personality and founder of the MORE Life Collective, Barbara Majeski, about the vow she made to herself after experiencing a Stage III cancer diagnosis and divorce - back to back. We discuss: - How Barbara’s childhood experiences have shaped her purpose and who she is today. - How we can use our experiences to have a positive impact on the people around us. - Barbara's moment of clarity that led her to finally doing what she always wanted to do. Challenge: At [45:12], Barbara encourages listeners to commit to one of three non-negotiable daily activities to help you build positive habits. Resources: https://www.themorelifecollective.com/ https://www.barbaramajeski.com/…

Learning From Your World

1
The Art of Peaceful Living With Sid McNairy 39:31

2 years ago39:31

39:31

In this episode, I talk with Sid McNairy, author, life empowerment coach, meditation teacher, and yoga instructor about peace. We discuss: - How Sid went from being a football coach to a meditation teacher. - Defining peace: the birthplace of love. - Practical ways to invite peace into our lives. Challenge: At [37:18], Sid shares a challenge that will help you get closer to living a peaceful life. Resources: Art of Peaceful Living Website…

Learning From Your World

1
Vulnerable Action With Aruna Krishnan 37:08

2 years ago37:08

37:08

In this episode, I talk with Aruna about: - How taking action helped transform her confidence. - The hardest part about writing a book: vulnerability. - Practical recommendations to shift from responding to reacting. Aruna's Challenge: 35:18

Learning From Your World

1
Are You Authentic, Really? With Charles Scott 42:50

2 years ago42:50

42:50

In this episode, I talk with Executive Mentor and lifelong adventurer, Charles Scott, about what it really means to be authentic. We discuss: - What true authenticity really looks like. - How authenticity changes over time. - Mimetic Theory and its impact on our ability to remain authentic. Challenge: At [42:53], Charles shares a challenge that will maximize your everyday vitality with alignment and authenticity. Resources: Sparked Book The Principle of 18 Book The Lion Tracker's Guide to Life Book Sparketype Assessment (Free)…

Learning From Your World

1
Make Your Environment a Product of You With Jay Chase 37:03

2 years ago37:03

37:03

What does it actually mean to “take control of your life?” In this episode, I talk with Jay Chase about how he went from being a product of his environment to making his environment a product of him. Taking control of your life is more than an inspirational quote. Jay talks about the real emotions and stories that came with the everyday struggle he faced during this process. He shares the primary person, books, and life events that were pivotal in helping him out of the pain. Challenge: At [34:48], Jay shares a simple challenge you can start today that will help you see a different perspective, train discipline, and invite more blessings into your life. Resources: Four Agreements Book Jay's Website…

Learning From Your World

1
Building Mental Wealth With Michael Gilbert 37:16

2 years ago37:16

37:16

What is mental wealth – and how can I get more of it? Michael Gilbert is the founder of Lumin-us, a nonprofit start-up with the goal of helping young adults find mental wealth through social therapy and asking questions like “What’s your bright spot?”. Michael and I discuss how we can use social therapy to improve mental wealth in ourselves and the people around us. In this episode, I also talk to Michael about: - Guidance for parents looking to support their kids’ mental health. (7:00) - Direction for people who are silently struggling. (13:07) - What employers and employees can do to improve mental wealth in the workplace. (20:57) Challenge: At [36:06], Michael shares a simple challenge you can do right now to improve your mental wealth. Resources: Lumin-us Instagram Lumin-us Website Project Healthy Minds The Trevor Project Lost Connections Book Look for Lumin-us on Project Pitch It season 7 this Spring!…

Learning From Your World

1
The Key to Lifelong Learning With Ted Neitzke 35:07

2 years ago35:07

35:07

In this episode, I talk with the CEO of CESA 6 and Mayor of Port Washington about the key to lifelong learning…CURIOSITY. Ted shares how to murder your books and other great tips to help retain the information you learn. He shares easy-to-implement strategies for leaders, parents, teachers, and individuals to leverage learning and create more meaning. We discuss: - How to learn every day - without even touching a book! - A simple, yet powerful lesson we can learn from buffalo. - The quickest way to positively impact someone’s life. Challenge: At [31:50], Ted shares a question you can ask yourself tonight and tomorrow morning that will help you reflect on what you can control in a positive way. Resources: Ted's Smart Thinking Podcast…

Learning From Your World

1
Reframe Your Greatest Challenge Into Your Greatest Gift With McKenna Reitz 44:40

2 years ago44:40

44:40

In this episode, I talk with McKenna Reitz about how she has transformed her experience with Alopecia into an opportunity to pursue her purpose with confidence. We discuss: - The internal and external factors that played a role in helping her improve her mindset. - The psychology and challenges behind reframing your life experiences into opportunities. - Advice for people before, during, and after experiencing a significant life event. Challenge: At [43:07], McKenna shares a challenge for listeners to try the next time they experience a daily hassle. Resources: McKenna's Website McKenna's TED Talk…

Learning From Your World

1
Stop and Notice With Jay Forte 33:15

2 years ago33:15