

excellence, actually
Steve Magness, Brad Stulberg, & Clay Skipper
"excellence, actually" is a podcast from The Growth Equation, hosted by Steve Magness, Brad Stulberg, and Clay Skipper. Drawing on their years of working and corresponding with Olympians, coaches, executives, world-class physicians, and other elite-level achievers in their coaching practice and professional careers, they give you the mental and physical tools, practices, habits, and frameworks used by the best in the world in the pursuit of excellence. Each episode will give you concrete ideas and tips to use in your life immediately to help you become more meaningfully engaged in the pursuits that support your goals and your values. This is not the performative nonsense that is peddled online by grifters and influencers, but the evidence-based systems that work for the best in the world. This is excellence, actually. (This podcast used to appear under the name FAREWELL.) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 4, 2024 • 43min
053 - Everything You Need to Know About the "Second Wind"
Exploring the mystery of the 'second wind' phenomenon, the hosts dive into the physiological and psychological factors behind it, emphasizing the importance of effort perception and motivation. They also debate the role of ego and egolessness in achieving excellence and peak performance.

8 snips
Jul 1, 2024 • 18min
052 - The Coach Up: How to (Deep) Read More Books
Exploring the benefits of deep reading in the digital age, including methods for note-taking and maintaining focus. Tips on reading habits, the significance of physical books, and consistency for deep reading practices are discussed.

10 snips
Jun 27, 2024 • 44min
051 - Does Being a Good Person Make You a Worse Competitor?
Discussing the correlation between negative character traits and sports performance, including the balance between confidence and ego. Exploring how athletes can maintain confidence while focusing on team goals and personal growth. Addressing the necessity of delusion and confidence in competitive fields, and the impact of contrasting personalities on performance. Examining how parenthood can affect athletes' identities and performance, highlighting the struggle of managing different roles.

Jun 24, 2024 • 10min
050 - The Coach Up: The Visual Tool to Win Hard Workouts (or Days)
Explore how ultrarunner Courtney Dauwalter uses a visual tool for problem-solving in races. Learn about the power of mantras and self-belief in ultrarunning. Embrace challenges and the value of trying in the pursuit of growth and knowledge.

24 snips
Jun 20, 2024 • 1h 5min
049 - Diet, Exercise, and Performance Dos and Don'ts with Adam Bornstein
Fitness and nutrition expert Adam Bornstein shares insights on the health industry, mindset shifts, sustainable eating, and lessons from working with Arnold and LeBron. He discusses the power of the human body, navigating wellness misinformation, prioritizing basic health habits, achieving goals through identity shift, and the unwavering focus of high performers.

Jun 17, 2024 • 11min
048 - The Coach Up: JJ Redick on the Confidence of an NBA Sharpshooter
Former NBA player JJ Redick discusses the importance of confidence in shooting, sharing insights on maintaining self-belief during slumps. Topics include building confidence through preparation, support, risk-taking, and skill development.

Jun 13, 2024 • 38min
047 - How to think About Longevity and End-of-Life Health
Exploring the obsession with longevity and improving end-of-life health. Discussing the societal impact and balance between extending lifespan and present enjoyment. Delving into personalized medicine, challenges of over-testing, and importance of managing chronic diseases early. Emphasizing adjusting movement habits for successful aging and investing in friendships and community.

Jun 10, 2024 • 15min
046 - The Coach Up: How (and Why) To Do A Digital Sabbath
Guest Brad Stulberg shares the benefits of a Digital Sabbath, highlighting presence and creativity. Discusses the process of disconnecting from devices, the advantages of a digital detox, and the importance of mindful usage for overall well-being.

16 snips
Jun 6, 2024 • 1h 10min
045 - The Reason You Can’t Ever Get Through Your To-Do List (with Oliver Burkeman)
Author Oliver Burkeman challenges traditional time management strategies, advocating for accepting our limits and focusing on meaningful goals. He discusses the balance between efficiency and deep focus, prioritizing important tasks, and embracing reality to reduce stress and enhance productivity. The conversation delves into the impact of capitalism on our mentality, the evolution of productivity discourse, and finding contentment in the present moment.

8 snips
Jun 3, 2024 • 14min
044 - The Coach Up: Beginner's Mind and the Power of Pessimism
Rebecca Rusch, the 'Queen of Pain,' shares her surprising approach to mastering her craft in this podcast. They discuss the Zen concept of 'Beginner's Mind,' the power of pessimism, and the perils of over preparing. Embracing humility, continuous growth, and the value of asking for help are highlighted themes in the conversation.


