The Ryan Leak Podcast When Phenomenal Skill Meets Phenomenal Will
Nov 10, 2025
Discover the powerful difference between skill and will in achieving success. Explore how grit, as highlighted by Angela Duckworth, often outperforms talent. Hear the inspiring journey of Jamie Kern Lima, who turned rejection into a billion-dollar success story. Learn how willpower can help you navigate adversity and stay committed. With insights on persistence at work and home, this discussion affirms that while skill may open doors, it’s will that keeps you inside. Anyone can develop the determination to succeed.
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Skill Is Visible And Trainable
- Skill is measurable, trainable, and comes from thousands of focused hours of practice.
- We admire skill because we can see highlights, resumes, and stats that prove competence.
Will Shows Up When It Gets Hard
- Phenomenal will is invisible until adversity reveals it and determines who perseveres.
- Angela Duckworth's research shows grit (passion plus perseverance) predicts success more than talent or IQ.
Everyday Examples Of Will In Action
- Ryan gives vivid examples (athletes, parents, entrepreneurs) showing will as standing up after defeat and persisting through hardship.
- He contrasts practice-based skills with will-driven acts like showing up after loss or continuing after rejections.
