Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen

McKay throws open the door on the often-misunderstood concept of charm in this latest installment of the Open Your Eyes podcast. Forget the social butterflies - McKay argues that charm is a powerful tool anyone can learn and put into practice to make a positive difference for themselves and for all those they encounter.The episode dives deep, exploring the surprising influence of charm with real-world examples. From the unlikely success of the Hoover Dam, spearheaded by a charming leader who united a team of unskilled workers, to the life-saving power of a smile and a kind word offered by a stranger, our host weaves a compelling narrative. Research backs it up too, with studies revealing the contagious nature of smiles and the persuasive power auditors wield when armed with charm. McKay empowers us all to cultivate our own charm with actionable tips – a sprinkle of genuine compliments, the magic of active listening, and the importance of remembering names. As our learned host notes, charm is more than just charisma, it's about creating genuine connections and making others feel valued. By incorporating the information and tips he offers here today, you can cultivate your charm and use it to create a more positive and impactful life.Episode Highlights:The Hoover Dam's historical significanceHow Frank Crow, the Hoover Dam project leader, united a team of unskilled workers through his charmThe science of charm, showing it can be learned and its impact on social interactionsStanford University studies highlighting the power of smiling for both the smiler's mood and those around themReal-world examples demonstrating the influence of charm, such as Don Ritchie saving lives with kindness and charm, and charming auditors' successPractical tips for cultivating charmKey Takeaways:"Frank Crow was a genius for organized thinking and for imparting organized thinking to other people. He was not only an engineering genius, he was a people genius.""A smile can save someone's life, so add it to your charm.""Olivia Fox, author of The Charisma Myth, defines charm as how delightful it is to interact with someone. I love that definition.""Charming people smile. They just smile and it gives them influence.""Smiling, even a forced smile, elevates your mood and smiles are contagious.""Fred Rogers used his charm and genuine kindness to leave a lasting impression on generations of viewers.""Charming people remember names, even small details, often to a surprising degree.""If you want to endear people to you, be charming.""Taking care of yourself can make all the difference when you're trying to land a job or influence someone.""Charm goes much further than talent, than popularity, or anything else."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

McKay Christensen discusses the power of knowledge and 'know-how' with guest Tu Youyou, highlighting her research on Chinese herbal medicine and the discovery of artemisinin. The episode covers John Snow's cholera investigation, Joshua Bell's mastery, Bob Mankoff's cartoonist journey, and Hedy Lamarr's innovation. Emphasizing the importance of practice and expertise, McKay inspires listeners to pursue mastery in their own lives.

McKay shines his spotlight this week on the remarkable interplay between faith and perseverance in achieving the seemingly impossible. By weaving together historical sports achievements and biblical narratives, he illuminates how a minuscule chance, when bolstered by steadfast belief and tenacity, can culminate in profound success.Our host delves into the awe-inspiring stories of racehorses Secretariat and Rich Strike, whose unexpected and historic victories in the world of horse racing underscore the significant impact of genetic legacy and relentless determination. Alongside these tales, McKay reflects on the biblical “Parable of the Unjust Judge”, reinforcing the theme that persistence can indeed influence outcomes and bring about justice. Through discussions on the essential role of psychological resilience and the application of these timeless lessons to personal and professional challenges, he offers listeners actionable insights into transforming slim odds into substantial successes. Be sure to join McKay here today as he draws poignant connections between legendary sports achievements and enduring spiritual teachings, motivating us all to keep pushing forward, no matter the odds.Episode Highlights:Exploring Secretariat’s legacyRich Strike’s unforeseen triumphThe role of pedigree in determining potential in sportsLessons from the parable of the unjust judgeStrategies for converting minimal odds into significant successesInsights into the mental toughness required in high-stakes environmentsApplying lessons from the world of sport and scriptureKey Takeaways:“We're talking about turning a 1% chance into a significant outcome.”“The unexpected victory of Rich Strike shows that underdogs can emerge victorious.”“Fully understanding the 99% can make a 1% chance sufficient.”“Belief is crucial, especially when facing great odds.”“True ‘impossibility’ is nothing when approached with conviction.”“Our deepest desires can become reality if pursued with relentless determination.”“Give more, love more, and live more, and watch what returns to you as a result.”“You'll turn your 1% chance with 99% belief into 100% certainty, I am certain of it.”Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

In today’s episode of Open Your Eyes, McKay guides listeners through a thought-provoking exploration of the criteria by which we measure our lives. Combining an analysis of lives spectacularly well-lived with his own learnings and sage observations, our host demonstrates the critical importance of ensuring these criteria are firmly founded upon those aspects in life that truly matter.The episode traverses various inspiring narratives, from Dr. Sanduk Ruit’s revolutionary work in making cataract surgery affordable for millions in Nepal to Dashrath Manjhi's 22-year mission to carve a safer path through the mountains for his village. McKay also reflects on his battle with cancer, his children’s perseverance and relentless determination, and the poignant story of a colleague and his son who was born with severe physical challenges. The episode concludes by drawing on the biblical story of Peter walking on water, underscoring the importance of maintaining faith amidst adversity. Collectively, these stories challenge listeners to consider the legacies they wish to create, ultimately posing the essential question: "How will you measure your life?"Episode Highlights:Global listener reachDr. Sanduk Ruit’s journeyDashrath Manjhi's dedicationClayton Christensen on life’s measuresPersonal growth through serviceStories highlighting the power of love and perseveranceFaith and overcoming doubtsMeasuring your life by what really matters mostQuotes:"I committed myself to a mission of making eye surgery affordable and accessible to every person in Nepal.""One can measure the surgeries provided to the impoverished in Nepal and the miles of travel saved by Dashrath’s new mountain path.""Consider if, ultimately, we are measured against the things that truly matter.""I realized my life would be measured by how I aided people in similar circumstances to mine.""Each day presents a choice on where to place your focus.""Love empowers you to focus, care, and exert more effort.""Keep going until you achieve your goals.""Faith means to believe without seeing, and the reward of faith is to see what you have believed."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

This week, McKay delves into the powerful theme of ‘letting go’, exploring how releasing past traumas and burdens can lead to personal growth and transformation. Drawing upon his wealth of inspiring stories and intricate knowledge of scripture, he identifies 3 tools listeners can implement now to make letting go a positive habit within their own lives.Sharing Bethany Hamilton's extraordinary journey after losing her arm in a shark attack, Viktor Frankl's insights from surviving concentration camps, and Peter's biblical story of denial and restoration, McKay addresses such concepts as emotional baggage, finding meaning in suffering, and the power of forgiveness and renewal. He tops things off with an examination of the incredible determination demonstrated by amputee Arunima Sinha’s legendary ascent of Everest. Distilling lessons from all of these formidable tales and mixing them with his own extensive wisdom, our host provides us all today with the practical tools and knowledge to successfully embrace letting go and achieving our full potential.Episode Highlights:Bethany Hamilton's story of losing her arm in a shark attack and her return to surfingPhantom pain and its metaphorical relation to carrying emotional baggagePeter's denial and restoration in the BibleViktor Frankl's insights on finding meaning in suffering and letting go of controlPersonal anecdotes and scriptural teachings regarding the power of letting go of negativityArunima Sinha's journey from a tragic accident to becoming the first female amputee to climb EverestPractical tools and lessons on how to let go and embrace a more fulfilling lifeKey Takeaways:"You can't be what you can't see. Open your eyes to the possibilities around you.""Phantom pain: the nerves signal to your brain the sensation of pain, even in a missing limb.""Peter's three denials were met with three affirmations of love, restoring his faith and purpose.""Viktor Frankl found meaning in suffering, focusing on helping others despite his dire circumstances.""Negativity attracts more negativity; let go of it to invite positivity into your life.""Arunima Sinha turned her mess into greatness by climbing Everest after losing her leg.""Letting go frees up space in your mind for new, fulfilling pursuits.""Focus on the next right thing, and trust the outcome to unfold in its time.""When we let go, we find amazing things and unlock immense potential."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

Inspired by the story of Beck Weathers, a Dallas pathologist whose harrowing experience on Mount Everest led to profound change, McKay explores the transformative power of resilience, reflection, and personal growth in today’s episode. He interweaves Beck's gripping journey with inspiring tales and scriptural insights, emphasizing themes of obsession, identity, and the importance of taking a “halftime” moment to confront apparent failures and make any necessary adjustments for the future.McKay traces Beck's path from battling depression and an obsessive passion for climbing to surviving a near-fatal ordeal on Everest. His miraculous survival and personal transformation highlight the essence of failing forward and finding inner peace, much like a team reassessing and strategizing at halftime. Featuring other stories such as missed basketball opportunities, resilience in the Miss USA pageant, and Esther's biblical story, McKay underscores the significance of undertaking a halftime reflection and moving on to embrace one's true identity, learn from failures, and leverage spiritual insights to navigate life's challenges.Episode Highlights:Beck Weathers' remarkable journeyInsights on embracing failure and using it as a stepping stone to success.Inspiring stories illustrating the importance of embracing challenges and staying true to one's identityThe importance of embracing one's true identity through scriptural references and personal faith.Practical tools and perspectives for overcoming challenges and making pivotal changes in life.The infinite worth of individuals and their potential for positive change and impact.Quotes:"Life is made up of a series of attempts and failures.""Successful people learn how to fail forward, to learn from their failures in a healthy way.""You are of immense worth. Your potential is endless.""Your potential to make a difference in this world and to other people for good is unlimited.""Don't wait for things to be perfect. Be mediocre with all you have. And remember, let go of the fear of failure.""Halftime is perhaps the most important part of the game.""When you can see who you really are, you can become who you really can be."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

Blessed with the insights and clarity that come to one whose life may be a little bit more than half over, McKay examines the profound impact of pivotal life decisions and the unexpected journeys they can lead to at any point in one’s life. From the inception of revolutionary airlines by daring entrepreneurs to the inspiring resilience of individuals overcoming personal adversities, today’s episode is a testament to the power of taking risks and seeking adventure at every stage of life.Throughout the episode, McKay introduces innovators whose bold decisions reshaped their destinies. Among the stories shared are J.M. Barrie's early losses and how they inspired Peter Pan, the origins of Southwest Airlines and JetBlue, and the lifelong impact of astronaut Sunita Williams’ curiosity. Additionally, our host recounts the tale of a transformative spiritual experience, illuminates God’s role in our endeavors, and concludes with a truly moving narrative highlighting the immense value of ‘safe haven laws’. Regardless of where you are on your own journey, join McKay here today and accept his sincere invitation to embrace the adventure of your own life with courage and curiosity.Episode Highlights:The genesis of Peter PanSouthwest Airlines originsJetBlue's founding and growthSunita Williams' astronaut careerIngrid Olsen's spiritual revelationDivine influence in life's trialsEmbracing risks in midlifeTransforming personal pain into community gainQuotes:"To live will be an awfully big adventure.""The moment you doubt whether you can fly, you cease forever to be able to do it.""I didn't still the wind. Instead, I gave you strength to overcome.""What could have been a simple test of faith turned into a profound lesson on God's presence and strength.""Sometimes the worst things that happen to us lead to the best things in our lives.""Every risk leads to a new path, every challenge a new adventure.""Her time in space was not just a journey above the Earth, but a testament to where curiosity and determination can take us.""From creating airlines to changing laws, the spirit of initiative can significantly shape our world.""In the face of adversity, remember that sometimes, God's gifts are not in what He takes away but in what He gives us the strength to endure.""Embrace each day with the potential to be an adventure."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

This week, McKay explores the beauty, joy, and value to be found in second place, highlighting the fact that it can catalyze profound personal growth and societal impact. He illuminates the often-overlooked virtues of being second, suggesting that true success is not necessarily found at the pinnacle of individual achievement, but in the influence and change we can effect when we accept a seemingly more humble role.McKay recounts the powerful stories of such Olympic athletes as silver medalist Mack Robinson, who used his platform and later life to foster community improvements and youth engagement, exemplifying how second place can lead to first-rate contributions to society. In addition to revealing the truth that embracing second place means putting God and faith first, our host shares personal accounts of the ways in which adopting a secondary role in conversations and leadership opens up opportunities for deeper understanding and more effective teamwork. Today’s inspiring episode invites listeners to reconsider their ambitions and perspectives on success, advocating for a shift towards valuing the quiet yet impactful victories that come from putting others first.Episode Highlights:The legacy of Mack RobinsonThe power of second placeHistorical Olympic momentsLeadership through listeningCommunity impactThe role of humility in leadershipPutting God and faith in first placeCelebrating unsung heroesQuotes:"Most of us, probably all of us, come in second or third a lot more than we win.""Listening does put you in second place, and there you learn more than you could in first.""You'd be surprised how much joy there is in being second in a conversation.""Putting second first has intrigued me for a while. How do we put our seconds, our second tendency, first?""When you put being second first, the influence you start to gain can transform your personal and professional life.""We work and lead and parent and live, often coming in second, but we do so quietly, setting records and reaching our goals in the background.""Mack Robinson wore his Olympic uniform while sweeping streets, demonstrating the dignity and pride he maintained despite not coming in first.""The beauty and grace in life often aren't found in the headlines but in quieter stories and moments that we experience every day.""Good listeners come in second in conversations, but they learn more than they would have otherwise." "By putting God or faith first, you inherently place yourself second, which reshapes your priorities and impacts."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

Acknowledging that adopting new perspectives can significantly enhance personal and professional growth for everyone, this week McKay focuses on the many benefits this process offers men in particular. Exploring the power of choices and mentorship through a variety of instructive stories and insights, he introduces and illuminates the "seven ways to be a better man."Throughout the episode, impactful narratives such as Frank Sinatra's transformative journey with a vocal coach illustrate the profound influence of guidance and persistence. McKay uses this and other stories to drive home the importance of self-improvement methods, including listening skills, resilience, education, and redefining personal narratives. By interlacing these tales with practical advice and actionable steps, he not only highlights challenges but also motivates listeners to foster meaningful relationships and commit to continuous personal growth. Tune in today and immerse yourself in this compelling blend of historical biography and modern analysis filled with practical lessons on navigating the complexities of life and achieving personal greatness.Episode Highlights:Daily choices and how the small decisions shape our overall life trajectoryThe impact of mentorshipThe "seven ways to be a better man," including practical tips for personal growthCurrent trends affecting men's roles in society, education, and professional environmentsInspiring stories from various individuals who have overcome significant challengesInsights from educators, psychologists, and other professionals on improving one’s lifeMcKay’s call to actionQuotes:"Each day we live, we have a series of choices of where we spend our time and what to think.""The foundation of our behavior and beliefs is the way we see the world and ourselves in it.""We've all been given gifts that can, in turn, give these gifts to the world and to the men in our lives.""When Frank Sinatra started learning, the whole world opened up to him.""Each time I find myself flat on my face, I pick myself up and get back in the race. That’s life.""Just because it's routine doesn't mean it has to be mundane. Spice it up, romanticize it, make every moment count.""Listening isn’t just about hearing what's said, it’s about understanding and responding with action.""We need to be the coaches in the lives of others, offering guidance and support when they need it most."Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/

McKay navigates the significant impact of daily choices, portrayed through both literal and metaphorical bridges, in this week’s installment of Open Your Eyes. Connecting personal decisions to navigating major waterways, he highlights how these choices construct the pathways of our lives and the consequences they carry across various sectors, from individual life changes to broad economic impacts.Along the way, McKay reflects upon the vital role of Baltimore's key bridges in local and national commerce and unpacks the recent maritime crisis involving the cargo ship Dali to illustrate the importance of quick decision-making in emergency situations. He also delves into the transformative power of creativity during historical moments, as seen in Francis Scott Key's spontaneous composition of what would become a national anthem, and explores personal stories of resilience and legacy—how habitual reading influenced Lin Manuel Miranda to create "Hamilton," the cherished quilts made by his grandmother, and the resourcefulness of missionaries in Africa. These narratives underscore the profound impact of resilience and creativity, reminding listeners that the bridges we build through our everyday actions not only define our personal journeys but also leave enduring legacies that span generations.Episode Highlights:How strategic choices, akin to selecting navigational routes, influence broader life and economic outcomesThe significant roles of the Francis Scott Key and Memorial Bay bridges in supporting Baltimore's economy and national infrastructureHow the cargo ship Dali's crisis highlights the crucial aspects of crisis management and decisive action under pressureFrancis Scott Key's spontaneous creation of a national anthem during wartime serves as a poignant example of how creativity can forge lasting legaciesLin Manuel Miranda's journey from reading to creating the acclaimed musical "Hamilton"The heartfelt legacy of McKay’s grandmother’s quiltsThe resilience of missionaries in Africa who reinforced bridges to transport essential suppliesHow choices, whether in crisis or calm, build the metaphorical bridges that guide and shape our livesQuotes:"Each choice leads us down a different path, much like choosing a route from the sea into the heart of a bustling city.""The bridges we cross are not just made of steel and concrete, but also of the decisions we make every day.""When the Dali faced disaster, it wasn't just a ship in peril— it mirrored our own moments of crisis, where quick, decisive action can avert greater disasters.""Francis Scott Key's impromptu words on that historic night echo the unforeseen impact of our spontaneous decisions.""Every day, we write the poem of our lives, not on paper, but through the actions we take and the decisions we make.""Like the sturdy girders of a bridge, our habits and decisions support the weight of our lives’ ambitions and challenges.""Let us embrace the ‘tugs’ of inspiration as guides to steer us through life's turbulent waters.”Links:https://www.mckaychristensen.org/