
Passion Struck with John R. Miles
Why Passion Struck Is Different from Every Other PodcastMost personal development podcasts focus on motivation, success, or productivity hacks. They tell you to hustle harder, think positive, or push through—but they rarely address the real issue:Why do so many people feel like they’re doing everything “right” and still feel unfulfilled?That’s where Passion Struck is different.This podcast isn’t about external success—it’s about internal transformation. It’s about understanding why you feel stuck, why your efforts don’t always lead to fulfillment, and what science reveals about breaking free.At the heart of Passion Struck is a radical idea:Mattering is not something you earn—it’s something you choose.And when you finally stop chasing external validation and start aligning your actions with what truly matters, everything changes.Hosted by John R. Miles, a former Fortune 50 executive, award-winning author, and global expert on intentional living, Passion Struck brings together the world’s top behavior & neuroscientists, psychologists, alternative health experts, and thought leaders to explore:The science of purpose—how your brain is wired for meaning.The psychology of transformation—why change is hard and how to make it last.The mind-body connection—how holistic health fuels passion and performance.The new rules of leadership, success, and human potential.This isn’t just a self-improvement podcast—it’s a wake-up call. A challenge to break free from autopilot, rewrite your story, and take ownership of your life.If you’re ready to stop existing and start mattering, this podcast will show you how.Rewire Your Mind. Redefine Your Life.New episodes drop every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. 👉 Follow now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform.
Latest episodes

May 15, 2025 • 1h 2min
Biet Simkin on How to Awaken Your Soul When Life Breaks You | EP 611
Biet Simkin, a globally respected meditation guide and best-selling author, shares her profound journey through grief and addiction. She reveals how losing her mother and child catalyzed a radical transformation towards spirituality and sobriety. Biet emphasizes that suffering is a teacher, not an enemy, and discusses the healing power of music and meditation. She encourages listeners to stop seeking external validation, reclaim their inner lives, and transform pain into personal growth and awakening.

May 13, 2025 • 59min
Dr. Zach Mercurio on How Leaders Can Help People Feel Seen | EP 610
In a thought-provoking discussion, Dr. Zach Mercurio, a researcher and author of "The Power of Mattering," delves into the critical nature of feeling valued in our lives and workplaces. He discusses how mattering is not just a luxury but a survival instinct. Zach highlights the consequences of "anti-mattering" and the importance of leaders recognizing individual contributions. With insights on fostering connections through small acts, he offers a practical framework for leaders to truly make people feel seen and appreciated.

21 snips
May 9, 2025 • 28min
5 Mental Health Habits That Anchor You in Uncertain Times w/ John R. Miles | EP 609
Uncertainty can shake our mental health, but the right habits can serve as anchors. Discover five transformative practices that promote self-trust and emotional stability. Learn how connection through belonging rituals can protect your well-being. A sense of purpose emerges as a powerful tool to steer us through turbulent times. The episode draws on personal stories and behavioral science to emphasize the importance of small achievements and intentional emotional care, making it an essential listen for anyone feeling lost.

May 8, 2025 • 54min
Tiffany Moon on How to Write Yourself a Prescription for Joy | EP 608
In this inspiring and refreshingly candid conversation, Dr. Tiffany Moon—a board-certified anesthesiologist, entrepreneur, and reality TV star—opens up about her journey from high-achieving perfectionist to someone learning to prioritize joy, authenticity, and self-compassion. She shares powerful stories from her new book Joy Prescriptions, revealing how chasing success left her burned out and disconnected, and what it took to rewrite her inner script.Together, we explore how societal expectations, burnout, and achievement culture can rob us of joy—and how to reclaim it through intention, play, and honest self-reflection.Click here for the full show notes: https://passionstruck.com/tiffany-moon-write-yourself-prescription-for-joy/Join the Ignition Room!Join the new Passion Struck Community! - The Ignition Room: https://station.page/passionstruckKey Takeaways:
The neuroscience behind belief, purpose, and spiritual practice
How mindfulness reshapes the brain’s architecture
Why people with spiritual habits tend to live with more hope
And how to reinforce your sense of mattering every day
For more information on Dr. Tiffany Moon: https://www.tiffanymoonmd.com/Sponsors:
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For more information on advertisers and promo codes, visit Passion Struck Deals.Speaking Engagements & WorkshopsAre you looking to inspire your team, organization, or audience to take intentional action in their lives and careers? I’m available for keynote speaking, workshops, and leadership training on topics such as intentional living, resilience, leadership, and personal growth. Let’s work together to create transformational change. Learn more at johnrmiles.com/speaking.Episode Starter PacksWith over 500 episodes, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. We’ve curated Episode Starter Packs based on key themes like leadership, mental health, and personal growth, making it easier for you to dive into the topics you care about. Check them out at passionstruck.com/starterpacks.Catch More of Passion Struck:
My solo episode on Why Hustle Culture Is Toxic (And How to Break Free From It)
Can't miss my episode with Homaira Kabir on How You Overcome the Tyranny of Perfection
My episode with Susan Cain on What is the Happiness of Being Bittersweet
Listen to my interview with Thomas Curran on Breaking Free From the Perfection Trap
Catch my interview with Matthew Weintrub on the Psychedelic Origin of Religion
Listen to my solo episode on Why You Should Avoid the Trap of Effortless Perfection
If you liked the show, please leave us a review—it only takes a moment and helps us reach more people! Don’t forget to include your Twitter or Instagram handle so we can thank you personally.How to Connect with John:
Connect with John on Twitter at @John_RMiles
Follow him on Instagram at @John_R_Miles
Subscribe to our main YouTube Channel and to our YouTube Clips Channel
For more insights and resources, visit John’s website
Want to explore where you stand on the path to becoming Passion Struck? Take our 20-question quiz on Passionstruck.com and find out today!See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

May 6, 2025 • 55min
Andrew Newberg on What Makes Us Feel Like We Matter | EP 607
Dr. Andrew Newberg, a leader in neurotheology and author, dives into the fascinating connection between the brain, spirituality, and our sense of purpose. He reveals how spiritual practices like meditation reshape brain architecture and enhance emotional resilience. The conversation highlights the vital role of belief in fostering meaning and community. Newberg also addresses the complexities of modern social dynamics, the changing landscape of spirituality among younger generations, and how compassion can combat loneliness.

May 2, 2025 • 23min
Why Mental Health Is the Root of a Meaningful Life w/John R. Miles | EP 606
Dive into the crucial role of mental health, which underpins our purpose and connection. Discover how emotional erosion silently impacts us and challenges the notion that seeking help signifies weakness. Uncover the link between mental well-being and meaningful relationships while exploring a new community dedicated to fostering emotional sustainability. Learn that you don’t have to hit rock bottom to prioritize mental health and how intention and engagement can lead to a more fulfilling life.

May 1, 2025 • 56min
Elizabeth Weingarten on How to Fall in Love With Questions | EP 605
In this enlightening conversation, Elizabeth Weingarten, a journalist and applied behavioral scientist, explores the art of embracing uncertainty through inquiry. She argues that life’s toughest questions should be seen as partners in our growth rather than problems to solve. Weingarten emphasizes how our obsession with quick answers can obscure deeper truths and hinder personal development. By fostering a mindset of curiosity, she illustrates how meaningful questions can enhance resilience, relationships, and self-awareness.

Apr 29, 2025 • 1h 16min
Gretchen Rubin on the Secrets of Adulthood and Happiness | EP 604
Join bestselling author Gretchen Rubin as she shares her insights from her new book, Secrets of Adulthood. With wit and wisdom, she explains why aphorisms are powerful tools for personal growth. Rubin discusses the surprising effects of sensory loss after COVID, the challenge of navigating adult friendships, and the paradox of love in personal development. She emphasizes the importance of self-knowledge and offers practical advice for living intentionally and fostering meaningful connections. Tune in for a delightful and thought-provoking conversation!

Apr 25, 2025 • 54min
Skateboarding Legend Tom Schaar on How to Fall 999 Times and Still Win | EP 603
Tom Schaar, an Olympic silver medalist and skateboarding pioneer, shares his incredible journey as the first to land a 1080. He reveals the mental discipline behind his success and how he has turned 999 failures into growth opportunities. Mindset shifts from prodigy to pro, handling fear in competition, and the importance of balance in life are key themes. Tom emphasizes embracing challenges and the power of micro-improvements, inspiring anyone facing personal hurdles to push their limits and keep striving.

Apr 24, 2025 • 1h
Rosalind Chow on How Sponsors Fuel Your Career Growth | EP 602
Dr. Rosalind Chow, an organizational behavior expert at Carnegie Mellon and author, discusses the essential role of sponsorship in career advancement. She highlights how sponsorship differs from mentorship, creating pathways that can drastically change careers for individuals who might be overlooked. The episode shares compelling stories, including Kim Ng's rise as MLB's first female GM, and delves into strategies for fostering genuine connections in the workplace. Dr. Chow emphasizes empathy, trust, and the importance of advocating for underrepresented voices in leadership.