#083 Michael Sullivan: Language Learning Unlocked Why Apps Aren't Enough

MindHack

#Cody McLain #Productivity #Psychology #Self-Improvement #Fitness #Entrepreneur #Business #Podcasting Education #Mental Health #MindHack #Entrepreneurship #Self Development #Self Help

1:00:36

Do you have fond childhood memories of summer camp? For a chance at $250,000, campers must compete in a series of summer camp-themed challenges to prove that they are unbeatable, unhateable, and unbreakable. Host Chris Burns is joined by the multi-talented comedian Dana Moon to recap the first five episodes of season one of Battle Camp . Plus, Quori-Tyler (aka QT) joins the podcast to dish on the camp gossip, team dynamics, and the Watson to her Sherlock Holmes. Leave us a voice message at www.speakpipe.com/WeHaveTheReceipts Text us at (929) 487-3621 DM Chris @FatCarrieBradshaw on Instagram Follow We Have The Receipts wherever you listen, so you never miss an episode. Listen to more from Netflix Podcasts.…

about a year ago 58:05

MP3•Episode home

Discover why your brain needs more than gamified apps to achieve fluency, the exact moment when you stop translating in your head, and why that embarrassment you feel is actually your biggest barrier to mastery. Michael shares why language families matter, how Portuguese took him just weeks after mastering Spanish, and the counterintuitive reason why being tired might actually improve your speaking skills.

Whether you've hit the dreaded app plateau or feel like a five-year-old when attempting conversation, Michael offers science-backed daily practices that build true fluency without the burnout. Learn why 20 minutes daily trumps weekend cramming, when AI tools actually help, and the unexpected technique that will have you thinking in your target language faster than you thought possible.

ℹ️ About the Guest

Michael Sullivan, a language teacher who proves anyone can master a new language with the right approach. After mastering Spanish, he picked up Portuguese in just months. Michael teaches at Speak Better Spanish, where he helps students overcome the app-learning plateau through real human connection.

👨‍💻 People & Other Mentions

Speak Better Spanish - Michael's teaching platform
iTalki - Recommended platform for finding language teachers
Anki - Mentioned as a spaced repetition system app
Duolingo - Language learning app
Rosetta Stone - Language learning platform
Memorise/Memrise - Language learning platform

Support the show

Chapters

1. Intro (00:00:00)

2. Michael's journey to Spanish fluency (00:00:31)

3. Why language apps fall short (00:01:18)

4. Adult vs. childhood language learning (00:02:31)

5. Beyond apps: better learning methods (00:03:49)

6. Intensive vs. extensive learning approaches (00:05:06)

7. Overcoming language learning anxiety (00:08:26)

8. How languages connect and diverge (00:11:23)

9. Why some languages take longer to learn (00:14:35)

10. Why your third language is easier (00:18:00)

11. When languages mix in your brain (00:20:42)

12. Effective memory systems for language (00:22:48)

13. When you start thinking in a new language (00:26:13)

14. AI tools for language learning (00:29:52)

15. Daily practice vs. marathon sessions (00:33:50)

16. Words that mean their opposite (00:38:24)

17. Resources beyond Duolingo (00:40:10)

18. Can adults master new languages? (00:42:12)

19. The staircase model of language learning (00:44:36)

20. Call to Action: Connect with Michael and Cody (00:46:13)

76 episodes

#083 Michael Sullivan: Language Learning Unlocked Why Apps Aren't Enough

MindHack

49 subscribers

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

ℹ️ About the Guest

👨‍💻 People & Other Mentions

Speak Better Spanish - Michael's teaching platform
iTalki - Recommended platform for finding language teachers
Anki - Mentioned as a spaced repetition system app
Duolingo - Language learning app
Rosetta Stone - Language learning platform
Memorise/Memrise - Language learning platform

Support the show

Chapters

1. Intro (00:00:00)

2. Michael's journey to Spanish fluency (00:00:31)

3. Why language apps fall short (00:01:18)

4. Adult vs. childhood language learning (00:02:31)

5. Beyond apps: better learning methods (00:03:49)

6. Intensive vs. extensive learning approaches (00:05:06)

7. Overcoming language learning anxiety (00:08:26)

8. How languages connect and diverge (00:11:23)

9. Why some languages take longer to learn (00:14:35)

10. Why your third language is easier (00:18:00)

11. When languages mix in your brain (00:20:42)

12. Effective memory systems for language (00:22:48)

13. When you start thinking in a new language (00:26:13)

14. AI tools for language learning (00:29:52)

15. Daily practice vs. marathon sessions (00:33:50)

16. Words that mean their opposite (00:38:24)

17. Resources beyond Duolingo (00:40:10)

18. Can adults master new languages? (00:42:12)

19. The staircase model of language learning (00:44:36)

20. Call to Action: Connect with Michael and Cody (00:46:13)

76 episodes

#Cody McLain #Productivity #Psychology #Self-Improvement #Fitness #Entrepreneur #Business #Podcasting Education #Mental Health #MindHack #Entrepreneurship #Self Development #Self Help

All episodes

MindHack

1
#090 Josh and Greg : Rewire Your Mind - Simple NLP Secrets for Success 1:24:54

14 days ago1:24:54

1:24:54

Neuroscientist meets Trial Lawyer and what happens next will rewire your mind. Neuroscientist Josh Davis, PhD, and trial lawyer turned entrepreneur Greg Prosmushkin, authors of "The Difference That Makes The Difference," reveal powerful, easy to use Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) techniques to instantly shift your mindset for success. We dive into compelling stories of how NLP dramatically transformed Greg's courtroom confidence and Josh's ability to quickly shift emotional states. You'll discover practical NLP strategies including mental reframing, breaking negative thought loops, and mastering instantaneous rapport to improve your communication skills, overcome stress, and erase self-limiting beliefs. Listen now to learn how NLP can upgrade your thinking, elevate your performance, and unlock lasting, positive change across your work, relationships, and personal growth. ℹ️ About the Guests Joining us today are neuroscientist Josh Davis, PhD, and trial lawyer turned entrepreneur Greg Prosmushkin, co-authors of the groundbreaking new book, "The Difference That Makes The Difference." Together, they combine powerful neuroscience and real-world courtroom strategies to help you harness simple yet transformative Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP) techniques. A special shoutout to their innovative collaboration bridging science and practical insights to create meaningful positive change. LinkedIn - Josh Davis PhD Instagram - Two Awesome Hours Instagram - Greg Prosmushkin Facebook - The law office of Greg Prosmushkin Website - Philadelphia Personal Injury Lawyer iTunes Spotify Download as MP3 Get a copy of the book " The Difference that Makes the Difference " today. 👨‍💻 People & Other Mentions Tony Robbins (Motivational speaker, NLP advocate) John Grinder (Co-founder of Neuro Linguistic Programming, NLP) Robert Cialdini (Author of "Influence") Books - "The Difference That Makes The Difference" by Josh Davis, PhD and Greg Prosmushkin” Support the show…

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#089 Jay Yang: Success Without Permission - A Teenager's Path to Six Figures 57:51

21 days ago57:51

57:51

The invisible prison holding you back isn't built with bars but beliefs. Most never realize they forged their own chains. Enter Jay Yang: while classmates played video games, he cold-emailed CEOs and landed career-making opportunities with Noah Kagan at 16. By 19, he commanded a six-figure business and 200,000 followers without permission slips from gatekeepers. This conversation cracks open the playbook others pray you never discover. Jay reveals his ingenious TAG method that turns untouchable mentors into allies, the exact 19-slide deck strategy that bypassed years of corporate climbing, and his "sawdust selling" technique that transforms your everyday actions into income streams. Behind every locked door of opportunity stands no guard but your own hesitation. Learn the four-step framework that propelled a teenager past professionals with decades of experience. This isn't inspiration. It's a tactical blueprint for those brave enough to simply try the handle. ℹ️ About the Guest Jay Yang believes you don’t need permission to create your own opportunities. At 16, he cold-emailed Tyler Denk, CEO of beehiiv, with a list of ideas on how he could help. That email turned into an internship where he built beehiiv 101 —a course that has helped hundreds of users unlock the platform’s potential. At 17, he sent Noah Kagan, founder of AppSumo, a 19-page pitch deck breaking down gaps in his social media and email marketing—and how to fix them. That landed him a role as Head of Content, where he led social media campaigns, including the one that made Million Dollar Weekend a New York Times bestseller. Today, Jay continues to help entrepreneurs scale their brands, grow their audiences, and market their products more effectively. In his latest book, You Can Just Do Things: The Power of Permissionless Action , Jay shares the stories and strategies that helped him take bold action, build momentum, and create his own career path from scratch. When he’s not working, he’s likely playing pickup basketball, lifting weights, or spending time with family and friends. Twitter (X): @jayyanginspires Instagram: @jayyanginspires LinkedIn: Jay Yang Weekly Newsletter: The Spark iTunes Spotify Download as MP3 👨‍💻 People & Other Mentions Tyler Denk – CEO and co-founder of beehiiv ; offered Jay Yang an internship after receiving a cold email from him at age 16 Noah Kagan – Founder of AppSumo ; hired Yang as Head of Content after Yang pitched him with a 19-page deck; The pitch deck Jay used – Noah Kagan Million Dollar Weekend by Noah Kagan – NYT bestselling book that Jay helped promote through strategic content campaigns Charlie Munger – Investor and Warren Buffett's business partner; quo Support the show…

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#088 Vicki Tan: Ask Better Questions - An Interactive Approach to Life's Decisions 1:06:31

27 days ago1:06:31

1:06:31

You're stuck in life because you're navigating uncertainty without understanding the invisible geography of your mind. Tech design maverick Vicki Tan (Google, Spotify, Headspace) transforms decision-making with a powerful insight that revolutionized her career: most people struggle to make choices that lack self-coherence. They don't align with who they truly want to be. Discover how cognitive biases influence all aspects of your daily life, from perception of time to how you navigate life's most pressing questions. Through thought-provoking stories—including how her 125-pound dog taught her more about self-discovery than moving to NYC—Vicki maps the quiet ways we approach uncertainty. She reveals why changing jobs, cities, and relationships sometimes fails to deliver satisfaction, while explaining why well-intentioned advice from friends might not resonate with your unique mental shortcuts. From her interactive guide "Ask This Book a Question," learn the playful approach to decision-making that empowers you to understand yourself in a new way. This journey of self-discovery helps you view your questions in a different light, making you surprised by how clear your path forward becomes. ℹ️ About the Guest Vicki Tan is a San Francisco–based digital product designer and behavioral science expert whose work has shaped user experiences at leading tech companies. Currently a Staff Product Designer at Pinterest, she has previously held key design roles at Spotify, Headspace, Lyft, and Google. Her approach blends psychology and design to create meaningful products that help people find inspiration and build healthy habits. In April 2025, Vicki released her debut book, Ask This Book a Question: An Interactive Journey to Find Wisdom for Life's Big and Little Decisions . This innovative guide reimagines decision-making by encouraging readers to explore their questions through the lens of cognitive biases and storytelling. The book offers interactive visuals and prompts to help readers navigate choices with greater clarity and self-awareness. Instagram - http://instagram.com/vickiheart LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/vickitan/ Twitter - http://twitter.com/vickiheart Bluesky - https://bsky.app/profile/vickiheart.bsky.social Get your copy of "Ask This Book a Question" today: https://vickitan.com/book 👨‍💻 People & Other Mentions Vicki Tan - Product designer who worked at Google, Spotify, Headspace, and Pinterest; author of "Ask This Book a Question" Ask This Book a Question by Vicki Tan - Book about decision-making through questioning, available April 8, 2025 Daniel Kahneman - Behavioral economist mentioned in relation to cognitive biases Amos Tversky - Collaborated with Kahneman on cognitive bias research Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman - Book on behavioral economics and cognitive biases Viktor Frankl - Referenced regarding the space between stimulus and response James Clear - Author of "Atomic Habits" mentioned regarding tiny habits creating life shifts Atomic Habits by James Clear - Book about building good habits and bre Support the show…

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#087 Tama Kieves: A Harvard Lawyer's Radical Path to True Fulfillment 49:12

6 weeks ago49:12

49:12

What if everything you've been told about success is actually holding you back? In this eye-opening conversation with Harvard-trained lawyer turned spiritual entrepreneur Tama Kieves, we unveil why "being practical" might be the most impractical decision you'll ever make for your happiness. Feeling empty at the peak of achievement isn't just common—it's a wake-up call. Tama reveals the counterintuitive truth that 68% of high achievers report feeling trapped in their success, and shares her radical approach to breaking free from conventional thinking. Her provocative advice to "stop being so damn practical" isn't just bold—it's backed by Yale neuroscience showing how embracing uncertainty actually supercharges creativity by 53%. From rewriting limiting beliefs to accessing your hidden genius, this episode delivers transformative insights for anyone who's ever felt successful yet unfulfilled. Discover why your unconventional desires aren't frivolous—they're the encoded roadmap to your most authentic life. ℹ️ About the Guest Tama Kieves is a Harvard Law School graduate who left her legal career to help others discover and pursue their true calling. She shares daily inspiration for unconventional achievers on Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook and YouTube @TamaKieves. Her latest book, Learning to Trust Yourself , explores how limiting beliefs can shape our reality—and how to overcome them. Her work has been featured in a TEDx talk and highlighted by publications like Oprah Magazine . Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TamaKievesAuthor/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/tamakieves LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamakieves YouTube - @TamaKieves 👨‍💻 People & Other Mentions Learning to Trust Yourself - Tama's latest book about overcoming limiting beliefs Thriving Through Uncertainty - Another book by Tama mentioned in the conversation A Course in Miracles - A spiritual program Tama teaches, focused on living in love instead of fear TEDx Talk: "You Can't Plan an Inspired Life" - Tama's TEDx talk mentioned in the introduction Free CBT - iOS App recommended by Cody for cognitive behavioral therapy Jim Carrey - Mentioned for his quote about fame Inspired Self Dialogues - Tama's free tool for undoing fear or negativity Support the show…

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#086 Sari Azout: Why Imagination Beats Skills in an AI Powered World 1:01:43

7 weeks ago1:01:43

1:01:43

Everyone's obsessed with using AI to be more productive—but what if we've got it all wrong? In this mind-blowing conversation with Sublime founder Sari Azout, we uncover why the "move faster" mindset might actually be making us miserable. Sari drops truth bombs about why imagination—not technical skills—will be the career superpower of the future. She reveals how the most successful people will use AI differently than everyone else, and why being willing to be bored might become the ultimate luxury. We explore the surprising reason many tech leaders don't let their own kids use the products they create, and how to build a personal knowledge system that gives you an unfair advantage in an AI world. If you're feeling overwhelmed by productivity culture, this episode will completely change how you think about technology. ℹ️ About the Guest Sari Azout is the founder of Sublime, a personal knowledge management tool designed to help people curate and connect ideas in meaningful ways. In her thought-provoking essay "The End of Productivity," she challenges conventional thinking about AI and productivity—questioning whether our obsession with efficiency is actually preventing us from doing our best work. With Sublime, she's building technology that focuses on deepening intention rather than hijacking attention, creating a refreshing alternative in today's distraction-driven digital landscape. X - @sariazout Instagram - @sariazoutbaka iTunes Spotify Download MP3 👨‍💻 People & Other Mentions Sari Azout - Founder of Sublime Sublime - Personal knowledge management tool "The End of Productivity" Essay by Sari Azout - Essay mentioned in the podcast Cal Newport - Author known for "Deep Work" concept Mark Andreessen - Mentioned regarding creativity and execution Steve Jobs - Referenced regarding children's technology use Morning Brew Newsletter - Newsletter mentioned in discussion Blaise Pascal - Quoted: "All of man's problems stem from his inability to sit quietly in a room alone" Linus Torvalds - Creator of Linux, mentioned regarding creativity and intrinsic motivation Jiro Dreams of Sushi - Documentary film referenced regarding mastery and dedication Support the show…

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#085 Dr Beth McDougall: Body Intelligence The Science of Healing Yourself 1:12:28

8 weeks ago1:12:28

1:12:28

Your Body's Secret "Source Code" That Big Medicine Doesn't Want You to Access! Dr. Beth McDougall exposes the hidden intelligence within you that conventional doctors miss entirely. After solving thousands of "impossible" health cases over 25+ years, she's uncovered the shocking truth about your body's "pristine blueprint" – an energetic template that could transform how you heal forever. Beth McDougall, MD is contributing to an emerging medical paradigm at the intersection of medicine and contemporary physics and describes health in the larger context of our relationship to the life force that informs, animates, and connects us all. Thinking about health in this larger context provides solutions for reversing disease, slowing aging, and optimizing our lives. From Defeating Her Own Lyme Disease to Running San Francisco's Most Elite Health Clinic! Get the same actionable strategies Dr. McDougall uses with her high-performance clients. Learn the simple body-listening technique that outperforms expensive medical tests, and unlock your body's natural healing superpowers that could add decades of vibrant health to your life! ℹ️ About the Guest Dr. Beth McDougall, pioneering physician and medical detective, joins us today. Follow her @bethmcdougallmd on Instagram where she shares cutting-edge insights on health optimization. Her latest book "Your Pristine Blueprint" reveals how our bodies contain an encoded intelligence that can revolutionize healing when properly accessed. As Chief Medical Officer at JYZEN, she's collaborated with top biophysicists to create what many consider the most comprehensive bio-optimization center in the world. Instagram: @bethmcdougallmd Youtube Website iTunes Spotify Download MP3 👨‍💻 People & Other Mentions Your Pristine Blueprint - Book JYZEN - Dr. McDougall's medical and human performance center in San Francisco Dr. Peter Attia - Mentioned for his proactive healthcare approach Dr. Andrew Huberman - Referenced regarding morning light exposure Brian Johnson - Mentioned for his extreme longevity experiments and "Blueprint" protocol Dr. Rhonda Patrick - Referenced regarding heat shock proteins and sauna usage Support the show…

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1
#083 Michael Sullivan: Language Learning Unlocked Why Apps Aren't Enough 58:05

9 weeks ago58:05

58:05

"I've been doing Duolingo for over a year, completed the entire Spanish course, and still can't hold a conversation." Sound familiar? In this myth-busting episode, language teacher Michael Sullivan reveals the crucial missing piece in your language learning journey—human connection. Discover why your brain needs more than gamified apps to achieve fluency, the exact moment when you stop translating in your head, and why that embarrassment you feel is actually your biggest barrier to mastery. Michael shares why language families matter, how Portuguese took him just weeks after mastering Spanish, and the counterintuitive reason why being tired might actually improve your speaking skills. Whether you've hit the dreaded app plateau or feel like a five-year-old when attempting conversation, Michael offers science-backed daily practices that build true fluency without the burnout. Learn why 20 minutes daily trumps weekend cramming, when AI tools actually help, and the unexpected technique that will have you thinking in your target language faster than you thought possible. ℹ️ About the Guest Michael Sullivan, a language teacher who proves anyone can master a new language with the right approach. After mastering Spanish, he picked up Portuguese in just months. Michael teaches at Speak Better Spanish, where he helps students overcome the app-learning plateau through real human connection. LinkedIn Download MP3 iTunes Spotify 👨‍💻 People & Other Mentions Speak Better Spanish - Michael's teaching platform iTalki - Recommended platform for finding language teachers Anki - Mentioned as a spaced repetition system app Duolingo - Language learning app Rosetta Stone - Language learning platform Memorise/Memrise - Language learning platform Support the show…

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1
#082 Leanne Whitney: Calm Your Mind Ancient Wisdom for Modern Anxiety 1:20:13

10 weeks ago1:20:13

1:20:13

In this episode of MindHack, I speak with Dr. Leanne Whitney, a leading researcher in comparative psychology who bridges Western psychological insights with Eastern wisdom traditions. Dr. Whitney explains how anxiety often stems from disconnection between mind and body, revealing why traditional approaches to managing thoughts often fail. She unpacks the critical difference between Western psychology's view of ego and yoga's perspective on consciousness, offering practical insights on breaking free from destructive thought patterns. We explore how breath work directly impacts the nervous system, discuss the dangers of spiritual bypassing, and examine why many people get trapped in cycles of seeking external validation. Dr. Whitney shares specific techniques to establish safety in your body as the foundation for psychological healing. Whether you're struggling with daily stress or seeking deeper self-understanding, this conversation provides clear, actionable tools to transform your relationship with anxiety. ℹ️ About the Guest Dr. Leanne Whitney is a pioneer in bridging Eastern wisdom with Western psychology, guiding individuals to transform anxiety through mind-body integration. Find her on Instagram @drleannewhitney, where she shares practical tools for nervous system regulation. Her groundbreaking book, Consciousness in Jung and Patanjali , explores how ancient yogic practices offer solutions to modern psychological challenges that traditional therapy often misses. Her work has been featured through published research and public dialogues on depth psychology and consciousness, where she brings an integrative approach to self-realization, healing, and transformation. Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn Download MP3 iTunes Spotify 👨‍💻 People & Other Mentions Carl Jung Patanjali's Yoga Sutra Sam Harris Deepak Chopra 4,000 Weeks by Oliver Burkeman John Wellwood Internal Family Systems by Richard Schwartz Robert Falconer Dan Siegel Bill W. - AA Founder Yogi Bikram Ma Anand Sheela Jay Shetty Keith Raniere - NXIVM HeartMath Institute Support the show…

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#081 Trish Kendall: How to Overcome Addiction and Create Success 57:17

11 weeks ago57:17

57:17

Discover how Trish Kendall, once a former meth addict, rose to become an inspirational keynote speaker. Trish shares her incredible journey from childhood trauma and addiction to a life of enduring success, inspiring others to make transformative choices. MindHack episodes are approximately 60 minutes long and focus on key scientific insights and actionable takeaways to help you optimize your health, enhance productivity, or improve well-being. New episodes are released weekly. ℹ️ About this Guest Trish Kendall, an expert in creating enduring success and an international keynote speaker, highlights the inspiring stories of her guests as they share their journeys to lasting achievement. She proudly considers herself the most successful person she knows, excelling in her career, being a trusted member of her community, and a loving wife and mother of two—goals she once believed were impossible. Trish’s childhood was scarred by abuse, neglect, and a devastating crystal meth addiction that nearly took her life at 20. But through five transformative choices, she climbed out of despair and built a life of enduring success. Today, she inspires others to overcome their struggles and find their own path to fulfillment. Website Instagram Facebook LinkedIn YouTube Download MP3 👨‍💻 People & Other Mentions Adam Grant : - Social scientist and author of "Give and Take" GDA Speakers : One of the bureaus Trish works with Support the show…

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#084 Siim Land: Unlocking Longevity Secrets to Living Longer 1:00:04

12 weeks ago1:00:04

1:00:04

In this episode of MindHack, I explore the science of enhancing longevity and health span, leveraging both lifestyle modifications and cutting-edge research to improve how your body ages. We delve into the biological components of aging, discussing how factors like diet, exercise, and stress management can influence your health span. I also outline tools to implement these changes in your daily routine, such as monitoring blood work regularly and incorporating certain supplements that support overall health. Additionally, I address the often-overlooked aspect of social connections and how they impact long-term health benefits. MindHack episodes are approximately 60 minutes long and focus on key scientific insights and actionable takeaways to help you optimize your health, enhance productivity, or improve well-being. New episodes are released weekly. ℹ️ About this Guest Siim Land is a renowned health and longevity expert, author, and public speaker, best known for his work on optimizing health span and extending lifespan through lifestyle interventions. With a background in anthropology and a passion for science, Siim combines ancestral wisdom with cutting-edge research to provide practical strategies for healthy aging. His work focuses on empowering individuals to take control of their health and longevity, helping them achieve optimal well-being and live longer, healthier lives. Through his writing, speaking engagements, and online platforms, Siim continues to inspire and educate others on the science of longevity and the art of living well. Website X/Twitter Instagram Facebook LinkedIn The Longevity Leap Listen on Apple Podcast Listen on Spotify Download as an MP3 Other books here 👨‍💻 People & Other Mentions Dr. Peter Attia Andrew Huberman Brian Johnson Viktor Frankl Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl Journal of American Heart Association Support the show…

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#080 Jay Papasan: Why Most People Fail at Focus The ONE Thing You’re Missing 1:04:07

13 weeks ago1:04:07

1:04:07

What’s holding you back from achieving extraordinary results? In this episode of the MindHack Podcast, we dive deep with Jay Papasan, bestselling author of The ONE Thing, to uncover the secret to mastering focus and achieving success. Jay’s groundbreaking framework has transformed the lives of millions by helping them cut through the noise of daily distractions and discover their ONE thing—the priority that drives extraordinary outcomes. Join us as Jay shares the origin story of The ONE Thing, his collaboration with Gary Keller, and the research behind their powerful productivity principles. We explore the domino effect of small wins, why multitasking is sabotaging your success, and how to identify and take action on what truly matters. Jay also reveals his personal strategies for aligning daily habits with long-term goals, the role of core values in decision-making, and why thinking big is the first step to creating a purposeful life. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a busy professional, or simply someone striving for more clarity in a chaotic world, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you focus on what matters most. Learn why most people fail at focus—and discover the ONE thing you’re missing to unlock your potential. 🎧 Tune in now to start transforming your mindset, mastering your focus, and building a life that truly matters! ℹ️ About this Guest Jay Papasan is a bestselling author, speaker, and productivity expert, best known for co-authoring The ONE Thing with Gary Keller. With a background in publishing and years of experience as Vice President of Strategic Content at Keller Williams Realty, Jay has mastered the art of simplifying complex ideas into practical, actionable strategies. His work focuses on helping individuals and businesses achieve extraordinary success by prioritizing what matters most. Through his writing, speaking, and coaching, Jay continues to inspire people worldwide to focus on their "one thing" and unlock their potential. Website Twitter Instagram Facebook LinkedIn The One Thing Website Listen on Apple Podcast Listen on Spotify Download as an MP3 - https://bit.ly/4hyzitU The ONE Thing: The Surprisingly Simple Truth About Extraordinary Results By Jay Papasan & Gary Keller Other books here 👨‍💻 People & Other Mentions Gary Keller Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die by Dan and Chip Heath Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones by James Clear FedEx Delivers: How the World's Leading Shipping Company Keeps Innovating and Outperforming the Competition by Madan Birla Principles: Life and Work by Ray Dalio Shane Parrish Charlie Munger Ryan Holiday Time Ferris Codie Sanchez Pygmalion Effect Support the show…

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#079 Jay Steinfeld: The Four E’s of Success How Blinds.com Became a Business Powerhouse | Ep. 079 1:17:00

22 weeks ago1:17:00

1:17:00

What does it take to transform a small garage startup into the world’s largest online retailer of custom blinds? In this episode, Cody McLain sits down with Jay Steinfeld, the founder and former CEO of Blinds.com, to uncover the secrets behind his groundbreaking leadership philosophy—the Four E’s: Evolve, Experiment, Express, and Enjoy. Jay shares how these principles shaped Blinds.com’s journey from its humble beginnings to a $150 billion partnership with Home Depot, and why fostering a culture of continuous improvement, generosity, and experimentation was critical to its success. Discover how to build a thriving business culture, create meaningful customer experiences, and lead with authenticity—even in the face of adversity. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, leader, or innovator, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you achieve your own business breakthrough. ℹ️ About this Guest Jay Steinfeld is an accomplished entrepreneur, author, and business leader who revolutionized the e-commerce industry as the founder and former CEO of Blinds.com, the world’s largest online retailer of custom blinds. Launching the company from his garage in 1993, Jay built it into a market leader, culminating in its acquisition by Home Depot. A pioneer in business innovation, Jay is known for his leadership philosophy, “The Four E’s: Evolve, Experiment, Express, and Enjoy,” which he detailed in his book Lead from the Core: The Four Principles for Profit and Prosperity. Beyond his entrepreneurial success, Jay is an Entrepreneur in Residence at Rice University, an advisor at UT Austin’s Herb Kelleher Entrepreneurship Center, and a sought-after speaker on leadership, culture, and innovation. Through his work, Jay has inspired countless individuals and organizations to embrace continuous improvement, create impactful cultures, and lead with authenticity and generosity. Website Twitter Instagram LinkedIn Listen on Apple Podcast Listen on Spotify Download as an MP3 - https://bit.ly/4ghAMbo Lead from the Core By Jay Steinfeld 👨‍💻 People & Other Mentions UT Austin's Herb Keller Entrepreneurship Center Rice University Give and Take: Why Helping Others Drives Our Success by Adam Grant Stephen Covey The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable by Patrick M. Lencioni From Foster Care to Millionaire: A Young Entrepreneur's Journey of Success, Failure, and Triumph by Cody McLain Edwin Catmull Support the show…

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Cody McLain: The Purpose Paradox Why Having Everything Can Leave You Empty 49:07

24 weeks ago49:07

49:07

What happens when you reach the summit of success, only to find yourself feeling empty? In this episode of the MindHack podcast, Cody McLain shares his personal journey of achievement, disillusionment, and discovery. Drawing from ancient wisdom, modern neuroscience, and his own hard-won insights, Cody unpacks the hidden flaws of our achievement-obsessed culture and reveals how to break free from the cycle of empty success. Explore how to shift your focus from external milestones to internal fulfillment, embrace the process of living with purpose, and find joy in the journey rather than the destination. Whether you’re grinding toward your goals or wondering why success doesn’t feel as fulfilling as you expected, this episode offers practical tools and timeless wisdom to help you redefine what it means to truly succeed. Listen on Apple Podcast Listen on Spotify Download as an MP3 - https://bit.ly/3ZtoJSd From Foster Care to Millionaire: A Young Entrepreneur's Journey of Success, Failure, and Triumph by Cody McLain 👨‍💻 People & Other Mentions Seneca the Younger Steve Jobs Robert Sapolsky Daniel Kahneman Prospect theory Ikigai Ubuntu Philosophy Viktor Frankl Laura A. King G.L.A.D Technique Headspace App Calm App One Second Everyday App Insight Timer App Reflection App Day One App Thích Nhất Hạnh The Second Mountain: The Quest for a Moral Life by David Brooks The Power of Meaning: Finding Fulfillment in a World Obsessed with Happiness by Emily Esfahani Smith Julia Cameron The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron Support the show…

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#078 Ben "Doc" Askins: Beyond the Hero’s Journey Overcoming Trauma and Finding Empathy 1:08:12

25 weeks ago1:08:12

1:08:12

In this episode of the MindHack Podcast, we sit down with Ben "Doc" Askins, a former combat medic turned psychiatric physician assistant, who brings a wealth of experience in trauma therapy and unconventional healing. With nearly two decades in military medicine and a specialization in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, Ben challenges the traditional Hero’s Journey narrative and instead explores the path of the Anti-Hero—a journey that delves into the raw, real, and often messy truths of self-discovery. Through his unique insights, Ben shares how confronting trauma and embracing empathy are essential for true healing. This conversation is for anyone grappling with their own inner battles or seeking to make peace with past traumas. Together, we uncover practical steps to break free from self-deception, build meaningful connections, and find empathy not only for others but also for ourselves. Join us as we unpack a new approach to healing—one that is unfiltered, authentic, and ultimately empowering. ℹ️ About this Guest Ben "Doc" Askins is a former combat medic and psychiatric physician assistant with nearly two decades of experience in trauma care and therapy. Certified in MDMA-assisted psychotherapy by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), Ben blends traditional medicine with innovative approaches to healing. As the author of Anti-Hero’s Journey: The Zero With a Thousand Faces, he challenges conventional narratives of growth, offering raw insights on trauma, empathy, and self-discovery. Through his work, Ben inspires others to confront their struggles and embrace authentic transformation. Website Clinical Website Facebook Page YouTube Twitter Instagram Listen on Apple Podcast Listen on Spotify Download as an MP3 - https://bit.ly/3B3UXKn Anti-Hero's Journey: The Zero With a Thousand Faces: A Warped War Memoir on the Way to Enlightenment By Ben "Doc" Askins 👨‍💻 People & Other Mentions Maps (MultiDisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies) The Hero with a Thousand Faces (The Collected Works of Joseph Campbell) by Joseph Campbell Transpersonal Psychology Dr. Stanislav "Stan" Grof Carl Jung Carl Jung Shadow Karpman Drama Triangle Transactional Analysis in Psychotherapy: A Systematic Individual and Social Psychiatry by Eric Berne Catch-22 by Joseph Heller The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk Default Mode Network MDMA Support the show…

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#077 Kurt Wagner: Inside Elon Musk’s Twitter Takeover Power, Influence, and the Cost of Free Speech 1:04:27

28 weeks ago1:04:27