Gregory Walton on Why Big Changes Start With Small Acts | EP 593
Passion Struck with John R. Miles
The Power of Small Acts and Intentional Empathy
This chapter emphasizes the transformative effect of small acts of kindness and intentional empathy in creating a supportive community. It invites listeners to reflect on their actions and how they can foster connection and trust in their everyday interactions.
What if the secret to lasting transformation isn’t bold, sweeping moves—but quiet, intentional actions?
In this thought-provoking episode, John R. Miles interviews Stanford University psychologist Dr. Gregory Walton, whose groundbreaking research has reshaped how we understand belonging, mindset, and behavior change. Walton’s new book, Ordinary Magic, reveals how small, psychologically wise interventions can catalyze extraordinary change in schools, relationships, and society.
Greg shares the personal stories that inspired his research—from traveling through global poverty as a teen to being falsely arrested as an adult. These formative experiences drive his mission: to help people feel seen, valued, and capable of growth.
Full Shownotes here: https://passionstruck.com/gregory-walton-big-changes-start-with-small-acts/
Key Takeaways:
- Small acts can spark exponential impact
- Belonging isn’t a luxury—it’s foundational
- Everyone needs one person who believes in them irrationally
- Empathy and psychological safety create the conditions for growth
- Belief, when grounded in unconditional regard, can rewrite someone’s story
- Helping without humility can do more harm than good
- Start with trust—and build from there
Connect with Dr. Gregory Walton: https://psychology.stanford.edu/people/greg-walton
Sponsors:
- Factor Meals: http://factormeals.com/factormeals50off and use code “FACTOR MEALS 50 OFF”
- Rosetta Stone: Unlock 25 languages for life at “ROSETTASTONE.com/passionstruck.”
- Prolon: Reset your health with 15% off at “ProlonLife.com/passionstruck.”
- Mint Mobile: Cut your wireless bill to 15 bucks a month at “MINT MOBILE dot com slash PASSION.”
- Hims: Start your journey to regrowing hair with Hims. Visit hims.com/PASSIONSTRUCK for your free online visit.
- Quince: Discover luxury at affordable prices with Quince. Enjoy free shipping and 365-day returns at quince.com/PASSION
Next on Passion Struck:
In the next episode of Passion Struck, John sits down with Anne Marie Anderson, an Emmy Award-winning broadcaster, sports journalist, and leadership expert. Anne Marie has spent years breaking barriers in sports media, navigating high-stakes environments, and coaching top athletes and executives on leadership, resilience, and communication. In our conversation, we'll dive into the mental frameworks of high performers, the art of storytelling, and how to build confidence in any field.
For more information on advertisers and promo codes, visit Passion Struck Deals.
Join the Passion Struck Community!
Sign up for the Live Intentionally newsletter, where I share exclusive content, actionable advice, and insights to help you ignite your purpose and live your most intentional life. Get access to practical exercises, inspiring stories, and tools designed to help you grow. Learn more and sign up here.
Speaking Engagements & Workshops
Are you looking to inspire your team, organization, or audience to take intentional action in their lives and careers? I’m available for keynote speaking, workshops, and leadership training on topics such as intentional living, resilience, leadership, and personal growth. Let’s work together to create transformational change. Learn more at johnrmiles.com/speaking.
Episode Starter Packs
With over 500 episodes, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. We’ve curated Episode Starter Packs based on key themes like leadership, mental health, and personal growth, making it easier for you to dive into the topics you care about. Check them out at passionstruck.com/starterpacks.
Catch More of Passion Struck:
- My solo episode on Why Mattering at Work Is the New Metric Leaders Must Track
- Catch My Episode with Coach Matt Doherty on How You Rebound From Life’s Toughest Moments
- Watch my interview with Jessica Kriegel on How to Build an Intentional Workplace
- Can’t miss my episode withJacob Morgan on the Vital Power of Leading With Vulnerability
- Listen to my interview with Ivo Brughmans on How to Navigate the Paradoxes of Leadership
- Check My solo episode on Why We All Crave To Matter: Exploring The Power Of Mattering.
If you liked the show, please leave us a review—it only takes a moment and helps us reach more people! Don’t forget to include your Twitter or Instagram handle so we can thank you personally.
How to Connect with John:
- Connect with John on Twitter at @John_RMiles
- Follow him on Instagram at @John_R_Miles
- Subscribe to our main YouTube Channel and to our YouTube Clips Channel
- For more insights and resources, visit John’s website
Want to explore where you stand on the path to becoming Passion Struck? Take our 20-question quiz on Passionstruck.com and find out today!
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
