

Passion Struck with John R. Miles
John R. Miles
Welcome to Passion Struck, the #1 Alternative Health podcast, where we uncover what it truly means to matter.I’m John Miles, author, Navy veteran, and former Fortune 50 executive. You built a life that looks good; now let’s build one that feels true.Each week, I sit down with leading neuroscientists, psychologists, health experts, and thought leaders to explore the science of purpose, the psychology of lasting change, and the mind–body connection that fuels a meaningful life.This is your corner of the internet to pause, reflect, and reimagine who you are and who you can become.Because mattering isn’t something you earn. It’s something you choose.Stop existing. Start mattering.New episodes every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 3, 2025 • 27min
Own Your Cracks: Embrace Wabi-Sabi to Grow Into What Matters | EP 555
Explore the transformative power of Wabi-Sabi, embracing the beauty of imperfection and life's chaos. Hear personal stories of loss and resilience, turning cracks into growth opportunities. Discover practical strategies for reflecting on the past, living in the present, and setting meaningful goals for the future. This insightful discussion empowers you to redefine your perspective on perfection, encouraging a more intentional, fulfilling approach to life.

Jan 2, 2025 • 57min
Kari Leibowitz on How to Overcome the Winter Blues | EP 554
In this transformative episode, John sits down with Dr. Kari Leibowitz, a Stanford-trained health psychologist and mindset science expert, to uncover the secrets to thriving during winter's toughest days. Dr. Leibowitz's groundbreaking research, detailed in her forthcoming book "How to Winter," reveals practical strategies to embrace the cold, dark months and find joy and resilience in the process.Discover how Dr. Leibowitz's time living above the Arctic Circle taught her powerful lessons on joy, connection, and thriving during the Polar Night. Learn evidence-based techniques to combat Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.), maintain positivity, and build a resilient mindset that helps you navigate life's metaphorical winters with grace and strength.Link to the full show notes: https://passionstruck.com/dr-kari-leibowitz-overcome-the-winter-blues/Call to Action: Don't let winter bring you down! Tune in for valuable insights and actionable tips that will empower you to find light in the darkness and strength in adversity. Whether you're preparing for the literal challenges of winter or facing personal struggles, Dr. Leibowitz's wisdom will inspire and guide you.Sponsors:
Rosetta Stone: Unlock 25 languages for life at “ROSETTASTONE.com/passionstruck.”
Prolon: Reset your health with 15% off at “ProlonLife.com/passionstruck.”
Mint Mobile: Cut your wireless bill to 15 bucks a month at “MINT MOBILE dot com slash PASSION.”
Hims: Start your journey to regrowing hair with Hims. Visit hims.com/PASSIONSTRUCK for your free online visit.
Quince: Discover luxury at affordable prices with Quince. Enjoy free shipping and 365-day returns at quince.com/PASSION.
In this episode, you will learn:
How a positive mindset influences physical and mental well-being.
Evidence-based techniques for thriving during winter.
Insights from Arctic cultures on flourishing in darkness.
Practical ways to combat Seasonal Affective Disorder (S.A.D.).
The importance of rest, intention, and deliberate choices for resilience.
Connect with Dr. Kari Leibowitz: https://www.karileibowitz.com/For more information on advertisers and promo codes, visit Passion Struck Deals.Join the Passion Struck Community! Sign up for the Live Intentionally newsletter, where I share exclusive content, actionable advice, and insights to help you ignite your purpose and live your most intentional life. Get access to practical exercises, inspiring stories, and tools designed to help you grow. Learn more and sign up here.Speaking Engagements & Workshops Are 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 Packs With 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 4 Inspiring Ways to Bridge the Gap Between Theory and Action
My episode with Art Markman on How to Unlock Unstoppable Success
Watch my episode with Israa Nasir on How to Break Free From Toxic Productivity
Catch my interview with Adrian Brambila on 21 Brutal Money Lessons You Need Now
Listen to my conversation with BJ Fogg on How Tiny Habits Can Transform Your Life
My solo episode on Reinvent Yourself: The Journey from Ordinary to Extraordinary
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 and on Instagram at @John_R_Miles. Subscribe to our main YouTube Channel here and to our YouTube Clips Channel here. 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.

Dec 31, 2024 • 56min
Shira Gill on How to Adjust the Volume of Your Life | EP 553
In this episode, Shira Gill shares insights from her newest book, LifeStyled, which breaks down how to streamline and simplify each area of your life. The book is designed to help readers clarify what's most important, strip away excess, and tackle life's common obstacles with realistic strategies.From transforming chaotic spaces into serene sanctuaries through her proven methodologies to empowering individuals to make intentional and lasting changes, Shira Gill exemplifies how adopting a minimalist approach can lead to a more fulfilling and balanced life.Link to the full show notes: https://passionstruck.com/shira-gill-how-to-adjust-the-volume-of-your-life/Call to Action: This episode will resonate deeply with anyone passionate about simplifying their life, reducing overwhelm, and creating meaningful habits. It’s a call to action to embrace the power of less, take practical steps towards organization, and make impactful changes that enhance your well-being and daily experiences.Sponsors:
Rosetta Stone: Unlock 25 languages for life at “ROSETTASTONE.com/passionstruck.”
Prolon: Reset your health with 15% off at “ProlonLife.com/passionstruck.”
Mint Mobile: Cut your wireless bill to 15 bucks a month at “MINT MOBILE dot com slash PASSION.”
Hims: Start your journey to regrowing hair with Hims. Visit hims.com/PASSIONSTRUCK for your free online visit.
Quince: Discover luxury at affordable prices with Quince. Enjoy free shipping and 365-day returns at quince.com/PASSION.
In this episode, you will learn:
How to cut mental clutter and reduce overwhelm.
Strategies for simplifying your daily routines.
Shira Gill's three key principles: adjusting volume, creating systems, and implementing habits.
Practical ways to streamline and simplify different areas of your life, including health, relationships, career, and personal growth.
How to set better boundaries and build sustainable habits.
Insights from Shira's minimalist philosophy and her approach to embracing less for greater freedom and fulfillment.
Tips for self-reflection and making intentional decisions as you step into the New Year.
Connect with Shira Gill: https://shiragill.com/For more information on advertisers and promo codes, visit Passion Struck Deals.Join the Passion Struck Community! Sign up for the Live Intentionally newsletter, where I share exclusive content, actionable advice, and insights to help you ignite your purpose and live your most intentional life. Get access to practical exercises, inspiring stories, and tools designed to help you grow. Learn more and sign up here.Speaking Engagements & Workshops Are 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 Packs With 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 4 Inspiring Ways to Bridge the Gap Between Theory and Action
My episode with Art Markman on How to Unlock Unstoppable Success
Watch my episode with Israa Nasir on How to Break Free From Toxic Productivity
Catch my interview with Adrian Brambila on 21 Brutal Money Lessons You Need Now
Listen to my conversation with BJ Fogg on How Tiny Habits Can Transform Your Life
My solo episode on Reinvent Yourself: The Journey from Ordinary to Extraordinary
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 and on Instagram at @John_R_Miles. Subscribe to our main YouTube Channel here and to our YouTube Clips Channel here. 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.

Dec 27, 2024 • 32min
A Christmas Carol’s Hidden Gem: The Spirit of Mattering | EP 552
If you were visited by the Ghosts of Christmas Past, Present, and Yet to Come, what would they show you about how you’re living?Welcome to this special episode of the Passion Struck Podcast, where host John Miles explores the timeless story of A Christmas Carol. But instead of focusing on the well-trodden themes of redemption and holiday cheer, we’re uncovering a hidden gem: the spirit of mattering.Have you ever stopped to wonder about your own significance? Do you question whether you matter in the grand tapestry of life? It’s a subtle yet profound question that shapes our daily interactions, aspirations, and even our deepest fears. And it’s a question that A Christmas Carol answers in the most unexpected ways.In this episode, we will explore how Charles Dickens’ classic tale offers timeless lessons on recognizing the inherent value of ourselves and others. We’ll dissect Scrooge’s transformative journey, not just as a redemption story, but as an exploration of what it means to truly matter.Key Insights:
Rediscovering life’s purpose through the lessons in A Christmas Carol.
The power of compassion, connection, and recognizing the inherent value of ourselves and others.
Scrooge’s transformation as a mirror to our own lives.
Download the Leave Behind in the full show notes at: https://passionstruck.com/the-enduring-spirit-of-mattering/Call to Action: Don’t miss out on this inspiring discussion that goes beyond holiday cheer to explore what really matters. Tune in, reflect, and start showing those around you that they matter.If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review—it takes just a moment and helps us share our message with 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 and on Instagram at @John_R_Miles.
Subscribe to our main YouTube Channel here and to our YouTube Clips Channel here.
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 today!If you found value in this episode, share it with a friend and leave us a review to help spread the message of intentional living. Let’s bridge the gap between theory and action and live our lives with purpose!In this episode, you will learn:
The subtle yet profound question of significance: How it shapes our daily interactions, aspirations, and fears.
A Christmas Carol’s answers to this question in unexpected ways.
Scrooge’s transformative journey as an exploration of what it means to truly matter.
The invisible threads of connection that bind us all.
The impact of showing someone they matter: How it can transform their life and yours.
Practical ways to incorporate the spirit of mattering into daily routines.
Sponsors:
Mint Mobile: Cut your wireless bill to 15 bucks a month at “MINT MOBILE dot com slash PASSION.”
Hims: Start your journey to regrowing hair with Hims. Get your free online visit at hims.com/PASSIONSTRUCK.
Quince: Discover luxury at affordable prices with Quince. Enjoy free shipping and 365-day returns at quince.com/PASSION.
Rosetta Stone it's the only way that allows you to Unlock 25 languages for life at “ROSETTASTONE.com/passionstruck.”
Prolon helps you Reset your health with 15% off at “ProlonLife.com/passionstruck.”
For more information on advertisers and promo codes, visit Passion Struck Deals.Join the Passion Struck Community! Sign up for the Live Intentionally newsletter, where I share exclusive content, actionable advice, and insights to help you ignite your purpose and live your most intentional life. Get access to practical exercises, inspiring stories, and tools designed to help you grow. Learn more and sign up here.Speaking Engagements & Workshops: Are 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 Packs: With 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:
Check My solo episode on Why We All Crave To Matter: Exploring The Power Of Mattering
Catch My Episode with Jessica Zweig on How to Be the Light You Seek in the World
Watch my interview with Robert Waldinger on What Are the Keys to Living a Good Life
Can't miss my episode with Angela Duckworth on the Keys to Achieving Long-Term Success
My solo episode on The Art of Listening: How to Make People Feel Like They Matter
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 and on Instagram at @John_R_Miles. Subscribe to our main YouTube Channel here and to our YouTube Clips Channel here. 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.

Dec 26, 2024 • 1h 17min
James and Bersabeh Ray on How to Master the 3 Human Dilemmas | EP 551
In this episode of the Passion Struck Podcast, James Arthur Ray and Bersabeh Ray delve into the profound forces that shape our lives—God, Money, and Sex. Together, they explore how mastering these three core human dilemmas can lead to greater fulfillment, resilience, and clarity. Through stories of personal transformation, they discuss the true nature of success, the role of inner values over material wealth, and how aligning with purpose can redefine what it means to thrive in today’s world. Link to the full show notes: https://passionstruck.com/james-arthur-ray-bersabeh-ray-god-money-and-sex/Sponsors:
Rosetta Stone: Unlock 25 languages for life at “ROSETTASTONE.com/passionstruck.”
Prolon: Reset your health with 15% off at “ProlonLife.com/passionstruck.”
Mint Mobile: Cut your wireless bill to 15 bucks a month at “MINT MOBILE dot com slash PASSION.”
Hims: Start your journey to regrowing hair with Hims. Visit hims.com/PASSIONSTRUCK for your free online visit.
Quince: Discover luxury at affordable prices with Quince. Enjoy free shipping and 365-day returns at quince.com/PASSION.
In this episode, you will learn:
astering Inner Conflict: Learn how to recognize and dissolve the inner conflicts surrounding God, money, and sex that often hold us back from personal growth.
Releasing Fear: Discover strategies for overcoming the fear that ties our sense of worth to external factors like wealth or status.
Spiritual Integration: Gain insights into how spiritual practices can help align your goals and values with your financial and personal life.
Authenticity in Relationships: Explore how being authentic in your relationships—whether spiritual, romantic, or professional—leads to deeper fulfillment.
Embracing Abundance: Understand how cultivating a mindset of abundance in all areas of life, including finances and intimacy, can lead to lasting joy and success.
Balancing Material and Spiritual: Get practical advice on how to strike a balance between material pursuits and spiritual development for a holistic, harmonious existence.
Connect with Jay and Bersabeh Ray: https://jamesray.com/For more information on advertisers and promo codes, visit Passion Struck Deals.Join the Passion Struck Community! Sign up for the Live Intentionally newsletter, where I share exclusive content, actionable advice, and insights to help you ignite your purpose and live your most intentional life. Get access to practical exercises, inspiring stories, and tools designed to help you grow. Learn more and sign up here.Speaking Engagements & Workshops Are 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 Packs With 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 4 Inspiring Ways to Bridge the Gap Between Theory and Action
My episode with Heather Moyse on How to Create a Gold Medal Mindset
Listen to my interview with Dr. Lynn Matrisian on the Frontlines of Pancreatic Cancer – Education, Awareness, and Progress
Watch my episode with Glen Phillips on the Soundtrack of a Purposeful Life
Catch my interview with Julie Fleshman on How PanCAN Is Raising the Pancreatic Cancer Survival Rate
Listen to my conversation with Michael Marquardt on Breakthroughs in Early Cancer Detection
Can’t miss my episode with Michelle Curran on How to Conquer Your Upside Down Dreams
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 and on Instagram at @John_R_Miles. Subscribe to our main YouTube Channel here and to our YouTube Clips Channel here. 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.

Dec 24, 2024 • 1h 7min
Creating a Legacy of Hope: Dr. Abraham George on Educating India’s Underrepresented | EP 550
Dr. Abraham George, a visionary philanthropist and founder of Shanti Bhavan, discusses his transformative journey from military to education advocate. He highlights the profound impact of education in breaking poverty cycles, especially for marginalized children in India. The conversation dives into his initiatives to create inclusive educational environments and empower communities, showcasing success stories from the acclaimed Netflix documentary 'Daughters of Destiny.' Dr. George emphasizes the importance of aligning actions with values for lasting societal change.

Dec 20, 2024 • 28min
Unlocking the Richard Branson Formula: Why Happiness Leads to Success | EP 549
Dive into the concept that happiness is the essential ingredient for success. Explore Richard Branson's incredible journey, showcasing how joy, curiosity, and purpose fueled his achievements. Discover how embracing resilience can transform challenges into opportunities. The discussion reveals the powerful connection between personal fulfillment and professional growth, encouraging listeners to prioritize meaningful experiences. Learn to integrate happiness into daily life as a driving force for creativity and success.

7 snips
Dec 19, 2024 • 1h 13min
Caroline Adams Miller on the Keys to Achieving Big Goals | EP 548
In this episode, Caroline Adams Miller, a renowned positive psychology expert and author of 'Big Goals', shares insights on the science of effective goal setting. She presents her BRIDGE methodology and emphasizes the importance of aligning goals with personal purpose. Caroline discusses the unique challenges women face in achieving their aspirations and the role of grit and resilience in personal growth. Her journey through psychology and recovery highlights how overcoming adversity can lead to a fulfilling life, inspiring listeners to unlock their true potential.

Dec 17, 2024 • 1h
Madison Marsh on Courage, Confidence, and Compassion
Madison Marsh, the reigning Miss America and an active-duty Air Force officer, dives deep into her inspiring journey. She discusses her advocacy for pancreatic cancer awareness rooted in personal loss and the courage to challenge stereotypes in both pageantry and the military. Madison highlights the importance of mental preparation for competitions and shares her unique talent performance inspired by aviation. Through her story, she emphasizes the power of purpose, resilience, and the impact of personal narratives in driving meaningful change.

Dec 13, 2024 • 25min
The Art of Listening: How to Make People Feel Like They Matter | EP 546
In a world where so many people feel unseen and unheard, the art of listening is more important than ever. In this episode, John R. Miles dives into how listening deeply and intentionally can validate someone’s worth, foster connection, and create a sense of belonging.Through powerful stories, scientific insights, and actionable takeaways, John explores how practicing the art of listening isn’t just about hearing—it’s about helping others feel like they truly matter. Whether you’re looking to strengthen relationships, reduce loneliness, or improve your own sense of connection, this episode will inspire you to embrace listening as a transformative practice.Download the Show Leave Behind in the full show notes: https://passionstruck.com/the-art-of-listening/Call to Action: In this episode, we explored the transformative power of listening and how it can help people feel seen, valued, and connected. Now, it’s your turn to take these insights and put them into practice.Start small—choose one conversation this week where you’ll focus on truly listening. Be fully present, ask thoughtful questions, and create a space where the other person feels like they matter. Remember, every act of deep listening isn’t just a gift to others—it’s a step toward building stronger connections and living a more intentional life.Take that step today, and watch how it transforms your relationships and your understanding of what it means to truly connect.If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review—it takes just a moment and helps us share our message with 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 and on Instagram at @John_R_Miles.
Subscribe to our main YouTube Channel here and to our YouTube Clips Channel here.
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 today!If you found value in this episode, share it with a friend and leave us a review to help spread the message of intentional living. Let’s bridge the gap between theory and action and live our lives with purpose!In this episode, you will learn:
Why being deeply heard makes people feel valued and seen.
The psychological and emotional benefits of listening—for both the speaker and the listener.
How listening fosters belonging and strengthens relationships.
The science behind the art of listening, including its impact on empathy and stress reduction.
Practical strategies to improve your listening skills and create meaningful connections.
Sponsors:
Mint Mobile: Cut your wireless bill to 15 bucks a month at “MINT MOBILE dot com slash PASSION.”
Hims: Start your journey to regrowing hair with Hims. Get your free online visit at hims.com/PASSIONSTRUCK.
Quince: Discover luxury at affordable prices with Quince. Enjoy free shipping and 365-day returns at quince.com/PASSION.
Rosetta Stone it's the only way that allows you to Unlock 25 languages for life at “ROSETTASTONE.com/passionstruck.”
Prolon helps you Reset your health with 15% off at “ProlonLife.com/passionstruck.”
For more information on advertisers and promo codes, visit Passion Struck Deals.Join the Passion Struck Community! Sign up for the Live Intentionally newsletter, where I share exclusive content, actionable advice, and insights to help you ignite your purpose and live your most intentional life. Get access to practical exercises, inspiring stories, and tools designed to help you grow. Learn more and sign up here.Speaking Engagements & Workshops: Are 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 Packs: With 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:
Check My solo episode on How to Live Intentionally With Passion and Perseverance
Catch My Episode with Gail Swift On: The Power of Taking Action
Watch my interview with Jason Silver on How to Use What You Have to Get What You Desire
Can't miss my episode with Maha Abouelenein on How Small Actions Lead to Big Success
My solo episode on What Is Sisu? Harnessing the Finnish Art of Courage for Life
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 and on Instagram at @John_R_Miles. Subscribe to our main YouTube Channel here and to our YouTube Clips Channel here. 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.