The ONE Thing

Jay Papasan shares his journey of growing a newsletter from 89 to over 12,000 subscribers through consistent creation and valuable lessons. He emphasizes the importance of patience, vulnerability, and simplicity. Quality relationships with a dedicated audience outweigh sheer numbers, and actionable steps in content creation drive growth. By nurturing genuine connections and using accessible writing, creators can significantly impact their audience. The challenge encourages starting a new project without waiting for perfection.

What if the ability to bounce back isn’t something you’re born with—but something you can build?This week, you’ll hear from Dr. Robyne Hanley-Dafoe, a behavioral psychologist and expert on resilience and stress. Robyne breaks down how resilience is not just about “toughing it out”—it’s about building habits that create consistent, calm comebacks even in the face of chaos. We talked about how high achievers fall into the “when-then” trap, why your family relationships are the glass balls you can’t afford to drop, and how naming your emotions for just 90 seconds can change your entire day—and maybe even your future.We also explore how chronic stress hijacks your brain, how to get back to shore when you’re overwhelmed, and why the answer isn’t in hydrogen water or another hype cycle. It’s in the basics—sleep, movement, quiet rituals, and trusted people who check your blind spots.Challenge of the Week:When you reunite with someone you love—your partner, your kids, a teammate—let your face light up. Let them feel how good it is to be seen, and how good it is to come home.***To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: the1thing.com/pods.We talk about: How to recognize and interrupt the “when-then” trap The 90-second rule that can reduce long-term emotional distress Why showing up for your relationships is a resilience strategy Links & Tools from This Episode: Learn more: drrobyne.ca Follow Dr. Robyne on Instagram: @dr_robynehd Connect with Dr. Robyne on LinkedIn Free Resources Want to be a guest or share feedback? Email podcast@the1thing.com or send us an audio note at Speakpipe.com/the1thing. Produced by NOVA 

It’s graduation season—and whether you’ve got a child, a niece or nephew, or just a young person in your life heading to or already in college, you’re probably wondering how to best support them in this new chapter.In this episode, Jay gets personal. He walks through the highs and lows of his own college years—from social misfires and major indecision to joining the rugby team and becoming a double major in French and English. But more importantly, he shares what we wish college students learned… and what they actually do.Back in 2015, the ONE Thing team interviewed 15 students from across the country who had read the book and tried to apply its principles. With a little coaching and a few worksheets, they surfaced six core discoveries that can serve any young adult stepping into independence: Lay a Future Foundation – Even a vague purpose provides powerful direction. Set Mid-Term Targets – Clarity around “where you want to be when college ends” helps shape present-day decisions. Make a Success List, Not a To-Do List – Prioritize ruthlessly, especially when everything feels urgent. Think Big – Sometimes we create unnecessary limits. Big goals can make hard things feel smaller. Time Block for Willpower – Willpower isn’t on will-call. Structure your calendar to match your energy. Clarify Core Values – Use your values as a compass for choices, especially when you're on your own. Whether you're a parent, a mentor, or a recent grad yourself, this episode will inspire you to share the tools of focus, goal setting, and intention with someone who needs them most.Challenge of the Week:Identify a college-aged person in your life. Then go to the1thing.com/college to download the free college guide. Consider giving them a copy of The ONE Thing and the Core Values Deck as a graduation gift—and don’t just give it. Follow up. Ask if they’d like to go through it together. Help them put these tools into practice.***To learn more, and for the complete show notes, visit: the1thing.com/pods.We talk about: Why “figuring out your ONE Thing” matters even when you’re young The halo effect of getting clear on your goals Why willpower should be scheduled, not summoned Links & Tools from This Episode: The ONE Thing College Guide The ONE Thing Core Values Deck Episode 483: Are You Using This Simple Tool to Make Better Decisions? Free Resources Want to be a guest or share feedback? Email podcast@the1thing.com or send us an audio note at Speakpipe.com/the1thing. Produced by NOVA

Geoff Woods, Chief Growth Officer at a multinational conglomerate and founder of an AI leadership company, returns to discuss transformative leadership and personal growth. He emphasizes the importance of asking big questions, transitioning from certainty to curiosity, and detaching identity from outcomes. Geoff candidly shares his struggles with self-worth and how redefining success through values has led to a more meaningful life. He inspires listeners to envision their future selves and act boldly towards meaningful goals.

Jordan Freed, a productivity coach and Head Coach of The ONE Thing, discusses the Four Thieves of Productivity: saying yes too easily, fear of chaos, poor health, and unsupportive environments. He shares personal insights on identifying these thieves in our lives. Freed emphasizes the importance of a conducive environment for focus and offers strategies to create a 'bunker' for deep work. He also touches on the hierarchy of health, recommending simple habits like breath, water, and sleep to enhance overall productivity.

Celebrate twelve years of impact! Discover the art of reversing traditional goal setting to align your daily actions with long-term aspirations. Learn about 'goal setting to the now' and practical steps to clear your path to success. Uncover the importance of weekly check-ins to combat goal drift and unconscious quitting. Plus, explore the 7D Method to reclaim at least four hours weekly by cutting down on unnecessary commitments. Join the challenge to identify extra time for what truly matters!

Anne-Laure Le Cunff, a neuroscience researcher and founder of Ness Labs, shares insights from her new book, "Tiny Experiments." She introduces the concept of pacts—small commitments that ease the habit-building process without perfectionism. The conversation delves into the head, heart, and hand method for diagnosing procrastination, urging listeners to understand their motivations. Emphasizing the beauty of intentional imperfection, Anne-Laure encourages focusing on sustainable progress and nurturing relationships over mere productivity.

Discover the concept of a 'freedom number'—the key to achieving financial independence without relying on work. Learn how to calculate your number using the 4% Rule and gain insights into effective investment strategies. The discussion emphasizes that financial freedom is about making choices, not just accumulating wealth. With practical tools and a downloadable worksheet, listeners can map out their paths to financial security. Transform your dreams of financial independence into actionable steps today!

True wealth is built on daily habits rather than just numbers. The podcast delves into nine key practices for financial independence, such as living below your means and automating savings. It highlights the importance of tracking your net worth for better decision-making. Continuous learning and reassessing financial goals play a vital role in wealth-building. Personal stories from experts add depth to the advice, making it relatable and actionable. Listeners are encouraged to take charge of their finances and invest wisely.

Discover how wealth building can be simplified through the "Path of Money" model. Hear a personal journey that illustrates key shifts from earning to investing. Explore the critical differences between active and passive investing, and learn how to leverage them for greater financial returns. Understand the importance of analyzing your money flow and making informed choices. Insights on spending, saving, and compound growth will empower your financial decision-making. Get ready to take control of your financial future!