Finding Mastery with Dr. Michael Gervais

Rhonda Morris, the former VP and Chief Human Resources Officer at Chevron, shares her remarkable journey as the first African American female corporate officer in the company's history. She discusses the importance of authentic leadership and the challenges she faced in a competitive environment. The conversation covers the role of HR in fostering connections, enhancing employee satisfaction, and navigating the complexities of team dynamics. Rhonda emphasizes resilience, vulnerability, and the need for psychological understanding in modern leadership, especially in a post-pandemic world.

Diplo, a Grammy Award-winning DJ and cultural innovator, dives into the complexities of the music industry. He discusses the pivotal role of curiosity in enhancing creativity and separating self-worth from external validation. Diplo opens up about balancing a demanding career with personal life, sharing insights on resilience stemming from a tumultuous upbringing. He emphasizes that mastery is a continuous journey, reflecting on the importance of vulnerability, connection, and enjoying the process over merely chasing achievements.

In this insightful discussion, Matt Breitfelder, Partner and Head of Human Capital at Apollo, delves into the essential role of empathy in leadership. He emphasizes how cultivating a strong cultural foundation fosters high performance and trust among teams. Matt explores the challenges of modern leadership, from navigating hybrid work to leveraging AI, while advocating for a strengths-based approach to unlock human potential. His views on continuous learning and the importance of psychological safety offer valuable gems for leaders aiming to thrive in today's dynamic workplace.

JoAnn Garbin, a tech entrepreneur with 25 years of experience at Microsoft, discusses innovation as a process rooted in values and courage. She shares insights on embracing fear and joy to foster creativity and emphasizes the importance of psychological safety and divergent thinking. JoAnn also reflects on her personal resilience and how life's challenges can shape us. The conversation highlights the interplay of innovation and AI, urging listeners to reconnect with their creativity for a more fulfilling life.

Sasha DiGiulian, a world champion rock climber and pioneer with multiple first female ascents, shares her unique insights on fear and self-doubt. She emphasizes the importance of being present during challenges and balancing excitement with anxiety. Sasha discusses vulnerability as a strength, her recovery from injuries, and how to embrace life's pressures while remaining authentic. Her journey of self-acceptance, alongside the significance of teamwork and resilience, offers valuable lessons for anyone looking to thrive under pressure.

Dr. Ethan Kross, a leading expert on emotion and self-control and professor at the University of Michigan, shares groundbreaking insights on managing emotions. He explains the science behind emotional regulation and self-efficacy, emphasizing the power of emotional literacy. The conversation explores techniques like distanced self-talk and mental time travel for navigating challenges. Kross also discusses how environments influence feelings and offers tools for athletes to manage their emotions effectively. This engaging talk reshapes our understanding of emotional mastery.

John Paul DeJoria, co-founder of Patrón Tequila and Paul Mitchell, shares his incredible journey from homelessness to billionaire entrepreneur. He emphasizes the transformative power of giving, even in hardship. JP reveals how adversity shaped his resilient mindset and the importance of gratitude over material wealth. He discusses the essence of true wealth, the role of kindness in business, and how unexpected opportunities can emerge from challenges. Prepare to be inspired by his insights on empathy, leadership, and the significance of making a difference.

Ryan Leaf, a former NFL star known for his tumultuous journey from top draft pick to struggles with addiction, shares his powerful story of redemption. He candidly discusses the pressures of success and the societal stigma surrounding mental health in sports. Leaf emphasizes the importance of redefining success and overcoming shame, reflecting on how his past struggles have fueled his mission to help others navigate mental health challenges. His insights on resilience, personal acceptance, and the impact of community support offer a poignant perspective on turning adversity into strength.

Serj Tankian, Grammy-winning artist and frontman of System of a Down, shares his journey blending creativity with activism. He discusses turning emotional turmoil into artistic expression, emphasizing mindfulness as a tool for managing intense feelings. Serj reflects on his Armenian heritage's influence, the healing power of music, and the significance of addressing historical injustices. He also tackles complex themes like the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and climate crisis, advocating for small actions that foster meaningful change.

In this engaging conversation, Robert Greene, author of influential works like "The 48 Laws of Power," explores the intricate relationship between mastery, power, and love. He reflects on his personal journey of recovery from a stroke and shares practical wisdom on self-discovery amidst societal pressures. Greene emphasizes the interconnectedness of self-mastery and craft, highlighting resilience and the emotional complexities of personal struggles. He also discusses leadership's alignment with inner power and the pursuit of a fulfilling, purpose-driven life.