excellence, actually

Professor of religious history at Duke, Kate Bowler, discusses the influence of the prosperity gospel on today's wellness industry. She shares her personal story of being diagnosed with cancer at age 35, challenging the idea of self-improvement. The podcast explores the origins of the prosperity gospel, the power of positive thinking, and the parallels between performing religion and performing health. It also emphasizes the importance of congregational community in navigating challenges and maintaining faith.

Steve Magness discusses the concept of stopping workouts just before reaching a goal to develop mental resilience. He explains how this practice creates discomfort and anxiety, helping individuals develop mental toughness. He also explores how stopping a little bit short can be applied in various aspects of life to overcome anxiety and tension. Additionally, he discusses the idea of embracing discomfort as an opportunity for growth and learning, sharing personal experiences of applying this concept in daily life.

In this podcast, the hosts do a fantasy draft of their favorite movies and shows about performance. They discuss the criteria for their selections, debate the importance of entertainment value versus lessons on mastery, and highlight various films and documentaries that showcase commitment, risk-taking, and teaching prowess. The hosts engage with the listeners, asking for their thoughts and recommendations and encouraging them to subscribe and share the podcast.

Behavioral scientists Brad, Steve, and Katy Milkman discuss goal-setting in the new year. They cover open vs. specific goals, big vs. small goals, the what the hell effect, mindset shifts, and metaphors for goal setting. They also explore the impact of confidence, unrealistic expectations, and the benefits of setting ambitious goals with a little bit of slack. A mini masterclass on goal setting is included.

Elite ultrarunner Courtney Dauwalter talks about her unprecedented accomplishment of winning three iconic 100-mile races within 10 weeks, while maintaining a rare mixture of joy and intensity. She shares her mindset towards embracing the 'pain cave' and her unique visualizations and mantras. Courtney also discusses the power of belief, taking risks, refreshing rituals, and maintaining a healthy relationship with running.

FAREWELL is a podcast about performance, delivering insights, habits, and practices to help you fare well. It features interviews with high-level performers and explores the power of the human mind.

Steve, Brad, and Clay discuss the impact and limitations of motivational speaking, the importance of daily practices for lasting change, and the role of community in motivation. They explore different approaches to change and reflect on purposeful hard work. The speakers emphasize the significance of diversifying tools and not relying solely on motivation.

The hosts discuss habits they started in 2023 and share their physical goals for 2024. They explore the benefits of disconnecting from digital devices and the importance of sprinting in fitness. The analogy of weightlifting and reading publications is discussed, along with the brain's ability to make predictions and the importance of context in understanding emotions.

Mark Epstein, author of 'Going to Pieces Without Falling Apart', joins the hosts to discuss his book's impact on mental well-being and peak performance. They explore topics like creating space between thoughts and reactions, letting go of the self, embracing uncertainty and anxiety, and learning to be with discomfort.

Clay and Steve discuss strategies for maximizing health during the holiday season, including the importance of consistency in training and gradually building momentum. They also address staying active and motivated during the pandemic and provide advice on building a new exercise regimen.