The Greg McKeown Podcast

Ethan Kross, Ph.D., author of "Chatter," explores the dual nature of our inner voice, discussing how it can both empower and hinder us. He shares strategies for managing intrusive thoughts through techniques like social support and distance self-talk. Kross highlights the importance of reframing challenges and navigating emotional hurdles with empathy. He delves into the balance between offering support and actionable advice while emphasizing the role of positive emotions in enhancing mental clarity and decision-making.

Elena Aguilar, a writer, coach, and educator dedicated to team development and racial justice, joins the discussion to share her journey of balancing passion and business. She reveals the struggles of maintaining creativity under financial pressure while pursuing impactful writing. The conversation delves into the courage required to step outside comfort zones and the importance of actionable steps for personal development. Elena also highlights the significance of nurturing passion projects and how they can foster resilience and self-expression.

Former Atlanta Falcons GM Thomas Dimitroff shares his journey through football and his recent career transition. He discusses the importance of prioritizing what's essential in life, especially when faced with unexpected changes. Dimitroff highlights the need for personal growth and creating space for reflection in a demanding career. He also emphasizes the power of networking and peer support, as well as fostering open conversations about well-being and authenticity in sports leadership.

Caroline Achkar, an advocate for Essentialism from Beirut, shares her journey towards adopting a healthier lifestyle and nurturing the next generation. She discusses how Essentialism has transformed her health after a life-threatening surgery, pushing her towards a gluten-free diet. The conversation also touches on creating supportive spaces, like cafés, to foster community resilience amidst Lebanon's challenges. Caroline emphasizes the power of expressing dreams and intentions, which can inspire both personal growth and collective healing.

Anna McKeown, the wife of Greg McKeown and a key player in developing the Essentialism philosophy, discusses the journey of prioritizing what truly matters. Together, they reflect on the balance between work and family commitments, sharing personal stories that blend humor and heartfelt lessons. The significance of empathy in relationships, navigating emotional attachments, and celebrating milestones like bestseller success are also explored. Anna emphasizes the importance of gratitude and creating a positive home environment, reminding listeners to embrace their own essential priorities.

Drew Scott, an HGTV star and half of the Property Brothers, teams up with his wife Linda, a positive force and co-host of the At Home podcast. They reflect on their diverse childhoods and the pivotal lessons learned from their families. Their discussion spans the evolving definitions of home, the importance of purpose in family dynamics, and how their upbringing shapes their creative and entrepreneurial endeavors. They emphasize the drive for meaningful change, balancing passion with profit, and the essential nature of navigating structure in fostering creativity.

Vanessa Guzman, a first-generation American-Latina and empowerment consultant, shares her journey toward embracing an essentialist lifestyle despite cultural pressures. She emphasizes the importance of self-prioritization and the challenges faced while redefining success in her life. The conversation highlights the need for a supportive community and maintaining a manageable pace during transformation. Vanessa also discusses mindfulness in balancing commitments and the role of accountability partners in personal growth, urging individuals to craft a narrative focused on their well-being.

Josh Shipp, a youth expert and former at-risk foster child, shares his transformative journey into youth advocacy. He delves into decoding teenagers' behavior, shedding light on the importance of consistency in parenting. Josh discusses feelings of inadequacy many parents face, advocating for a coaching approach as kids become more independent. He also emphasizes equipping young adults with essential life skills for college and fostering communication and responsibility in children through quality time and affirmations.

Nate Checketts, Co-founder and CEO of Rhone, discusses his journey in creating comfortable activewear tailored for men. He shares profound insights on parenting a child with dyslexia, highlighting unique strengths over perceived disabilities. The conversation critiques traditional education’s one-size-fits-all approach, celebrating alternative learning styles like Montessori. He reflects on his childhood sports experiences, emphasizing the importance of following personal passions amid family expectations and navigating work-life balance during the pandemic.

In this discussion, Dana Biberston, a mother of six and advocate for essentialism, shares her journey through health challenges and family dynamics. She emphasizes the power of spirituality in finding fulfillment amidst chaos. Dana reveals how daily spiritual practices sparked by personal trials can lead to transformative change. The conversation also explores the importance of prioritizing what truly matters and the idea of a 100-year vision to foster deeper connections and appreciation for legacy in shaping our lives.