Game Changers with Molly Fletcher

What happens when achieving your biggest goal leaves you feeling empty? At age 36, LA Rams coach Sean McVay became the youngest head coach to win a Super Bowl—and soon after, he nearly walked away from coaching altogether. In this candid conversation, Sean opens up about why he almost retired, the perspective he gained, and his growth as a leader. He shares the lessons he’s learned about resilience, leading with authenticity, and building purpose-driven success.

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.

Dan Buettner, a National Geographic Explorer and founder of Blue Zones, shares secrets of longevity from the world's healthiest communities. He reveals surprising truths about how environment, social connections, and a sense of purpose trump genetics in living longer. Discover the whole foods linked to longevity and the power of community in enhancing health. Plus, get insights from his new cookbook featuring simple, nutritious recipes designed for a longer life. Embrace actionable lifestyle changes inspired by centenarians!

Arthur Brooks, a Harvard professor and bestselling author, shares his insights on happiness drawn from years of research. He explains why high achievers often feel empty despite their success, introducing concepts like the 'arrival fallacy.' Brooks emphasizes the importance of meaningful relationships and leisure, and how creativity plays a crucial role in genuine satisfaction. He challenges listeners to rethink success, focusing on emotional connection and personal growth, rather than merely chasing achievements.

Fashion designer Kristin Juszczyk, co-founder of Off Season, redefined fan apparel after crafting DIY game day outfits for her NFL player husband. She shares her journey from DIY to dressing stars like Taylor Swift and Simone Biles. Kristin discusses the importance of betting on yourself and how strategic partnerships shaped her brand. The conversation dives into overcoming personal challenges, the significance of authenticity, and how she navigated the fashion industry while embracing change and championing stylish sportswear for women.

Ben Newman, a performance coach renowned for his work with sports icons like Nick Saban and Caitlin Clark, dives into the concept of 'the burn'—the internal drive that fuels elite performance. He discusses how top performers transcend mere motivation and lean into discipline and consistency. Newman shares strategies for overcoming complacency, the importance of structured routines, and the impact of fostering a community of high achievers. With personal anecdotes and insights, he inspires listeners to discover their own fire to achieve sustained success.

Carly Zakin and Danielle Weisberg, the dynamic co-founders of TheSkimm, share their inspiring journey from sending a single email to building a multi-million reach media empire. They delve into the raw challenges of entrepreneurship, including late nights and self-doubt. The duo emphasizes the importance of courage, partnership, and betting on oneself when others doubt your vision. They also touch on the impact of modern caregiving challenges for women post-COVID-19, offering insights into balancing careers and personal responsibilities.

Dawn Staley, a Hall of Famer and the head coach of South Carolina women’s basketball, shares her profound journey from North Philly to coaching excellence. She emphasizes the importance of discipline and the lessons learned from both victories and setbacks. Dawn sheds light on the emotional aftermath of winning Olympic gold, revealing how achieving dreams can sometimes lead to unexpected emptiness. With insights from her new book, *Uncommon Favor*, she inspires listeners to embrace resilience, faith, and inclusive leadership on their paths to success.

According to the National Sleep Foundation, 60% of adults aren’t getting enough sleep and nearly 4 in 10 regularly struggle to fall asleep. If you want to change your life, start by fixing your sleep. In this episode, I sit down with renowned sleep expert Dr. Michael Breus, “The Sleep Doctor,” to unpack five habits that will instantly improve your sleep quality. He shares science-backed strategies that are simple, practical, and easy to implement—no gadgets, pills, or gimmicks. We talk about why your wake-up time matters more than your bedtime, what’s really happening when you wake up at 3 a.m., and how dialing in your sleep can elevate your energy, focus, and overall performance. More from Molly: Get Molly's latest book, Dynamic Drive Website: mollyfletcher.com

Admiral William McRaven, a four-star admiral and bestselling author known for leading the mission that took down Osama bin Laden, shares invaluable leadership insights. He emphasizes the importance of resilience, humility, and clarity under pressure. McRaven discusses how to earn trust during uncertainty and the significance of transparent communication in crisis management. Highlighting the qualities that distinguish great leaders, he underscores the vital role of emotional intelligence and teamwork, all while encouraging a mindset of curiosity and boldness.