Game Changers with Molly Fletcher

Have you ever found yourself stuck in a spiral of negative thoughts? That voice in your head can feel impossible to shut off. But what if you could learn to make it work for you instead of against you? In this episode, I sit down with Ethan Kross, bestselling author of Chatter, to share science backed tools you can use the minute overthinking kicks in. We break down why negative self talk shows up, how to recognize it quickly, and practical ways to reset your brain in the moment. If you often replay conversations or second guess decisions, this conversation will help you quiet the noise and regain control. More from Molly: Get Molly's latest book, Dynamic Drive Website: mollyfletcher.com

Dr. Maya Shankar, cognitive scientist and former White House behavioral advisor, explores how change rattles identity and why uncertainty triggers stress. She discusses brain responses to pivots, grieving lost roles, and practical tactics like temptation bundling, self-affirmation, and building a change survival kit. Short, research-backed strategies help widen your sense of self and spot hidden opportunities in disruption.

Kim Perell, nine-time founder, investor, and bestselling author who turns setbacks into momentum. She explains why waiting to feel ready stalls progress. She reframes failure as a chapter, not an identity. She walks through pivots, hiring lessons, and practical rituals that keep momentum going.

Emily Harrington, professional climber and adventurer known for summiting Everest and free-climbing El Capitan, shares why she seeks hard things. She talks about reframing failure, building confidence through discomfort, and mantras for managing fear. Conversations cover balancing ambition with parenthood and how trying itself becomes the goal.

Buzz Williams, Maryland men's basketball coach known for transforming programs with culture and daily leadership habits. He breaks down the small, repeatable disciplines that shape team character. Short takes cover his nine daily practices, a simple checkbox system to stay aligned, and how trust, truth, and energy management keep teams steady.

Jen Hatmaker, a New York Times bestselling author and speaker, reveals her journey of rebuilding life after her 26-year marriage ended. She discusses her memoir, *Awake*, tackling profound themes like vulnerability and the courage it takes to start over. Jen emphasizes recognizing red flags in relationships and shares insightful advice on managing grief while juggling responsibilities. With compassionate reflections on her past, she inspires listeners to embrace new beginnings and prioritize love in their lives.

Brian Kelly, founder of The Points Guy and travel expert, reveals insider secrets that will change the way you travel. He shares essential credit card strategies, emphasizing the benefits of transferable points over single-airline loyalty. Learn about avoiding booking mistakes and the significance of using tools for the best award redemptions. Brian highlights the power of politeness with gate agents and the importance of leveraging perks to reduce travel stress. He also discusses the future of loyalty programs and how his success aids social change.

Dr. Tasha Eurich, an organizational psychologist and author of Shatterproof, challenges conventional wisdom about resilience. She reveals three myths that high performers often believe, such as resilience always being a choice. Tasha discusses the concept of 'grit gaslighting' and the limits of resilience as an exhaustible resource. She offers practical tools to replenish resilience, like identifying core human needs and using the Reflected Best Self Exercise. This enlightening conversation encourages a shift in how we think about coping with life's pressures.

Sean McVay, the Super Bowl-winning head coach of the Los Angeles Rams, shares his journey from championship highs to the brink of retirement at just 36. He reflects on how early success led to a loss of personal perspective and the vital role his family played in his recommitment to coaching. McVay emphasizes leading with authenticity, creating psychological safety, and the importance of resilience and community. He stresses that true leadership is about serving others and valuing connections over accolades.

Dr. Caroline Leaf, a leading neuroscientist and bestselling author, shares insights from over 40 years of research in mental health. She discusses practical tools for reprogramming negative thought patterns and underscores the need for 63 days to solidify new habits. Emphasizing self-regulation, she explores how we can choose our emotional responses and manage stress effectively. Leaf highlights the mind-body connection and the importance of self-awareness in fostering resilience, offering strategies to reclaim peace amid life's challenges.