

Passion Struck with John R. Miles
John R. Miles
Alternative Health. Intentional Living. Radical Self-Transformation.Winner of the 2025 Stevie Gold for Best Independent PodcastWinner of the 2024 Gold Davey Award for Social ImpactMost personal growth podcasts push productivity. Passion Struck goes deeper—into the mental, emotional, and energetic foundations of a meaningful life.Why do so many people do everything “right” and still feel unfulfilled?That’s where Passion Struck is different.Hosted by John R. Miles—award-winning author, Navy veteran, former Fortune 50 executive, and global expert on intentional living—this podcast isn’t about external success. It’s about internal transformation.Because mattering isn’t something you earn.It’s something you choose.In each episode, John brings together the world’s leading neuroscientists, psychologists, alternative health experts, and thought leaders to explore:The science of purpose—how your brain is wired for meaningThe psychology of transformation—why change is hard and how to make it lastThe mind-body connection—how holistic health fuels passion and performanceThe new rules of leadership, fulfillment, and human potentialIf you're tired of drifting through life, checking boxes, and still feeling unfulfilled—this podcast is your wake-up call.Stop existing. Start mattering.New episodes drop every Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday.👉 Follow now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite platform.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 20, 2022 • 34min
Kate Gilman Williams on Why Advocacy has No Age Limits and Anyone Can Make a Difference EP 126
Kate Gilman Williams — How kids can save animals, why advocacy has no age limit and anyone can make a difference. | Brought to you by Trade Coffee (https://drinktrade.com/passionstruck).
Kate is the Founder of Kids Can Save Animals, Founder of Club 15 – an extension of Project 15 from Microsoft, and Author! She launched Kids Can Save Animals to connect her generation with world-renowned conservation organizations, technologists, policymakers, and global leaders who work to save wildlife and wild spaces. Her goal is to save endangered animals.
Born Free USA
Kate was recently named the first Youth Ambassador for Born Free USA. In her role, Kate will speak to her generation about the exploitation and suffering of animals living in captivity, educate kids and teens that animals being used for any kind of human entertainment is wrong, what the illegal pet trade is, and how we all can help end the wildlife trade and trophy hunting.
Let's Go On Safari
At age 8, Kate authored the book Let’s Go On Safari! which takes readers on a safari adventure and encourages children to speak up for animals who don’t have a voice. All sales from the book support the Jane Goodall Institute, The Sheldrick Wildlife Trust, and Re:Wild. So far, her book has raised over $15,000 for her conservation partners. When Penguin Random House in South Africa picked up Let’s Go On Safari! Kate became the youngest author in history to sign two publishing contracts resulting in a global title release.
In the Summer of 2021, Kate partnered with Jenn Hartmann Luck, Austin-based singer, and songwriter, to produce a song “Kids Can Save Animals.” With each download, 15% supports Re:Wild where Leonardo DiCaprio is the founding board member.
Enjoy
Thank you to our sponsor Trade Coffee Company
Elevate your coffee ritual w/ sustainably sourced coffee delivered fresh from 50+ roasters. We'll help you brew a better cup of coffee at home. 5 Million+ Bags Shipped. Get a total of $30 off your first order plus free shipping when you go to https://drinktrade.com/passionstruck.
I hope you keep up with the weekly videos I post on the YouTube channel, subscribe to, and share your learnings with those who need to hear them. Your comments are my oxygen, so please take a second and say 'Hey' ;).
► Subscribe to My YouTube Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/c/JohnRMiles
Our Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/passionstruck.
Time Stamps
0:00 Announcements and Guest Introduction
3:56 How Kate Gilman Williams became an advocate for animals
5:31 The youngest published author in history
6:25 Why the cheetah is an endangered species
7:51 Why an elephant is killed every 15 minutes
9:23 Favorite Club 15 podcast interview guests
10:01 How technology is saving animals
11:47 Kate discusses her new song "Kids Can Save Animals"
13:15 Why Microsoft is supporting animal advocacy
15:09 Kate's interest in saving ocean life
16:32 Lessons learned from podcasting
17:00 Why anyone can make a difference in the world
18:01 Why finding a mentor is important
18:45 Advocacy has no age limit 19:02 How kids can become leaders in their community
20:33 In 10 years we can lose all elephants on the planet
21:29 The northern white rhino preservation
22:18 Born Free USA and quarters for Koalas
23:42 If something is important you will pursue it
25:46 The future of Club 15
26:17 Greta Thunberg
29:18 Wrap up
Follow Kate Gilman Williams
* Website: https://kidscansaveanimals.com/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kidscansaveanimals/
* Twitter: https://twitter.com/kidssaveanimals
* Born Free USA: https://www.bornfreeusa.org
Follow John on the Socials:
* Twitter: https://twitter.com/Milesjohnr
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnrmiles.c0m
* Medium: https://medium.com/@JohnRMiles
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_r_miles
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/milesjohn/
* Blog: https://passionstruck.com/blog/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/passion_struck_podcast/
* Gear: https://www.zazzle.com/store/passion_struck/
-- John R Miles is a serial entrepreneur and the CEO and founder of Passion Struck. This full-service media company helps people live intentionally by creating best-in-class educational and entertainment content. John is also a prolific public speaker, venture capitalist, and author named to the ComputerWorld Top 100 IT Leaders.
John is the host of the Passion Struck Podcast; a show focused on exploring the mindset and philosophy world's most insightful people to learn their lessons to living intentionally and becoming the masters of their own life and destiny. Passion Struck aspires to speak to the humanity of people in a way that makes them want to live better, be better and impact.
Stay tuned to John's latest project, his upcoming book, which will be published in summer 2022. Learn more about me: https://johnrmiles.com.
New to this channel and the passion-struck podcast? Check out our starter packs which are our favorite episodes grouped by topic, to allow you to get a sense of all the podcast has to offer. Go to Spotify or https://passionstruck.com/starter-packs/.
Like this? Please join me on my new platform for peak performance, life coaching, self-improvement, intentional living, and personal growth: https://passionstruck.com/ and sign up for our email list.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Apr 19, 2022 • 1h 9min
Podcast Hall of Famer Rob Greenlee on the Future of Podcasts and Growth Trends
Rob Greenlee on the current state and the future of podcasting and podcast trends to pay attention to (2022 and beyond). | Brought to you by Trade Coffee (https://drinktrade.com/passionstruck).
Today’s guest is Podcast Hall of Famer Robert Greenlee. Rob is the VP of Content and Partnerships at Libsyn (LSYN). He is a current Board Member and Former Chair of The Podcast Academy. He started on radio in 1999 and then podcasting in 2004 with the first nationally syndicated radio show "WebTalk World Radio Show" to begin podcasting. Robert and fellow Podcast Hall of Fame Inductee Todd Cochrane host The New Media Show where they interview luminaries from the podcasting space providing deep insight into what is actually happening in the podcasting world. He was inducted into the “Academy of Podcasters Hall of Fame” in 2017.
On Passion Struck with John R. Miles, we discuss how Rob launched his first radio show WebTalk which later became a podcast. How he shaped Microsoft's podcast strategy and products. Why does he believe Microsoft entered too early and got out too soon. The story of how podcasting became his passion. What he sees are the biggest trends happening today in podcasting and over the next few years. The advent of video in podcasting and where he predicts the future of that and Live episodes going.
Enjoy!
Thank you to our sponsor Trade Coffee Company
Elevate your coffee ritual w/ sustainably sourced coffee delivered fresh from 50+ roasters. We'll help you brew a better cup of coffee at home. 5 Million+ Bags Shipped. Get a total of $30 off your first order plus free shipping when you go to https://drinktrade.com/passionstruck.
Our Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/passionstruck.
► Subscribe to My YouTube Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/c/JohnRMiles
Timestamps:
0:00 Announcements and Rob Greenlee introduction
3:49 The Webtalk radio show and podcast
7:58 Why Micorosft missed the podcasting window
13:37 Microsoft is an engineering-driven organization
17:47 Story of Dell's failed entry into smartphones
23:11 Rob Greenlee's lifelong passion for podcasting
29:25 Importance of content marketing
33:19 What is the current state of podcasting
36:46 The future of podcasting (trends 2022 and beyond)
41:55 Advice on launching a podcast
45:32 New Media Podcast
51:32 What podcast format drives the most downloads
56:33 The future of video in podcasting
1:02:45 Show Wrap Up
Follow Rob Greenlee
*Website: https://robgreenlee.com/
*LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robgreenlee/
*Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/robwgreenlee/
*New Media Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/new-media-show/id392545649
Show Links
Check out John’s episode on the science that promotes Curiosity. Catch up with Episode 114.
Are you showing yourself self-compassion? John discusses Self-Love in episode 104.
The nine steps to creating a balanced life in Episode 124.
Suppose you missed our interview with Susan Cain on her new book Bittersweet. Download it here.
Catch episode 123 I did with Dr. David Vago on the criticality of systems change. You can find the episode here
Follow John on the Socials:
* Twitter: https://twitter.com/Milesjohnr
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnrmiles.c0m
* Medium: https://medium.com/@JohnRMiles
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_r_miles
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/milesjohn/
* Blog: https://passionstruck.com/blog/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/passion_struck_podcast/
* Gear: https://www.zazzle.com/store/passion_struck/
-- John R Miles is a serial entrepreneur and the CEO and founder of Passion Struck. This full-service media company helps people live intentionally by creating best-in-class educational and entertainment content. John is also a prolific public speaker, venture capitalist, and author named to the ComputerWorld Top 100 IT Leaders.
John is the host of the Passion Struck Podcast; a show focused on exploring the mindset and philosophy world's most insightful people to learn their lessons to living intentionally and becoming the masters of their own life and destiny. Passion Struck aspires to speak to the humanity of people in a way that makes them want to live better, be better and impact.
Stay tuned to John's latest project, his upcoming book, which will be published in summer 2022. Learn more about me: https://johnrmiles.com.
New to this channel and the passion-struck podcast? Check out our starter packs which are our favorite episodes grouped by topic, to allow you to get a sense of all the podcast has to offer. Go to Spotify or https://passionstruck.com/starter-packs/.
Like this? Please join me on my new platform for peak performance, life coaching, self-improvement, intentional living, and personal growth: https://passionstruck.com/ and sign up for our email list.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Apr 15, 2022 • 26min
Nine Simple Ways to Find Your Balance and Get Your Life Back with John R. Miles EP 124
How do you live with a proper work-life balance? In this episode of Passion Struck with John R. miles, I will discuss 9 simple ways to find your balance and get your life back. | Brought to you by Babbel (https://babbel.com/passionstruck).
Finding a balanced life helps you improve your overall health. When you have balance, you have time to pay attention to your body's needs. You can prioritize things like diet, exercise, and meditation instead of regretting that you never have time to take care of yourself.
Thank you for listening to the podcast. I hope you also keep up with the weekly videos I post on the YouTube channel, subscribe to, and share your learnings with those who need to hear them. Your comments are my oxygen, so please take a second and say 'Hey' ;).
Episode Sponsor
This episode of Passion Struck with John R. Miles is brought to you by Babbel. The comprehensive learning system that combines effective education methods with state-of-the-art technology. Save up to 60 % off your subscription when you go to www.babbel.com/passionstruck.
Our Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/passionstruck.
Show Resources
Bittersweet by Susan Cain
7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey
Check out my interview with Susan Cain.
2021 CDC Life Expectancy Report
2011 Journal of Gerontology Report
2005 New England Journal of Medicine Article
Episode 74 The Importance of Play as an Adult
Episode 112 'The Keys to a Rewarding Life are Peak Experiences.'
Episode 38 Turn Your Time Into Productivity with Abigail Barnes
Episode 123 with Dr. David Vago on Self Transcendence, Meditation and Meta-Awareness
The New Science of Learning: How to Learn in Harmony With Your Brain.
Time Tracking and Calendar tools: Calendly, Engross, Everhour
Are you having trouble prioritizing yourself? John discusses the importance of self-love in Episode 104
John explains why materialism is impacting your success and happiness in episode 96.
Do you know the science of healthy habits? John explores this in-depth in Episode 108.
Suppose you missed our interview with Jen Bricker-Bauer on Everything is Possible. Don't panic! You can catch up by downloading it here.
How do you strengthen your relationship with your best self? Explore episode 110.
Find John on the Socials:
* Twitter: https://twitter.com/Milesjohnr
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnrmiles.c0m
* Medium: https://medium.com/@JohnRMiles
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_r_miles
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/milesjohn/
* Blog: https://passionstruck.com/blog/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/passion_struck_podcast/
* Gear: https://www.zazzle.com/store/passion_struck/
-- John R Miles is a serial entrepreneur and the CEO and founder of Passion Struck. This full-service media company helps people live intentionally by creating best-in-class educational and entertainment content. John is also a prolific public speaker, venture capitalist, and author named to the ComputerWorld Top 100 IT Leaders.
John is the host of the Passion Struck Podcast, a show focused on exploring the mindset and philosophy of the world's highest achievers to learn their lessons to living intentionally. Passion Struck aspires to speak to the humanity of people in a way that makes them want to live better, be better and impact.
Stay tuned for John's latest project, his upcoming book, which will be published in summer 2022. Learn more about me: https://johnrmiles.com.
New to this channel and the passion-struck podcast? Check out our starter packs which are our favorite episodes grouped by topic, to allow you to get a sense of all the podcast has to offer. Go to Spotify or https://passionstruck.com/starter-packs/.
Like this? Please join me on my new platform for peak performance, life coaching, self-improvement, intentional living, and personal growth: https://passionstruck.com/ and sign up for our email list.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Apr 12, 2022 • 1h 9min
Dr. David Vago on Self Transcendence – How to Experience Personal Growth and Awakening Through Meditation and Meta Awareness
Dr. David Vago on self-transcendence - how to experience personal growth and awakening through meditation and meta-awareness | Brought to you by Babbel (https://babbel.com/passionstruck).
David Vago, Ph.D., is on a mission to alleviate suffering and improve well-being through investigating connections between the mind, brain, and body. He is a Research Associate Professor and Director of the Contemplative Neuroscience and Mind-Body Research Laboratory in the Department of Psychology at Vanderbilt University. He is part of the faculty for the Vanderbilt Brain Institute and Vanderbilt Institute for Infection, Immunology, and Inflammation. Dr. Vago maintains a research associate position in the Functional Neuroimaging Laboratory, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, and is also Research Lead for the mental health and well-being platform, Roundglass, and a Mind and Life Institute Fellow. Over one million people have viewed Dr. Vago's Ted Talk on self-transformation.
How Self-Transcendence Impacts Your Self-Identity
Self-transcendence is the idea that there is something to transcend the self as if the self is something that is created through time. Over time, you have certain thoughts and emotions that construct your self-identity. It is a clinical model of self-reification, right conditioning, and habit formation. It all leads to how we conceptualize our identity, our needs, wants, fears, expectations, attitudes, and values. It is how our whole worldview is constructed. And so what meditation does, is it allows you to create a distance with those thoughts to find your greatest peace.
Please enjoy Dr. David Vago's episode and leave us a 5-Star rating if you love the episode. I know Dr. Vago and I would appreciate seeing listener comments. If you would like to watch this episode in addition to listening to it, you can view it here on our YouTube Channel. Please subscribe.
Thank You To Our Sponsor
This episode of Passion Struck with John R. Miles is brought to you by Babbel. The comprehensive learning system that combines effective education methods with state-of-the-art technology. Save up to 60 % off your subscription when you go to www.babbel.com/passionstruck.
Our Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/passionstruck.
► Subscribe to My YouTube Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/c/JohnRMiles
Links from the Show:
Buddhism and Equanimity - MR Tom, DR Vago - The Virtues in Psychiatric Practice, 2021. This edited text describes the use of positive psychology and contemplative practices in the context of psychiatry.
How meditation changes the brain: A neurophilosophical and pragmatic account. DR Vago - Routledge Handbook on the Philosophy of Meditation, 2022 This Handbook on the Philosophy of Meditation provides a comprehensive overview and analysis of the state of the field of the philosophy of meditation and engages primarily in the philosophical assessment of the merits of meditation practices.
Yaden, D. B., J. Haidt, R. W. Hood, D. R. Vago, and A. B. Newberg (2017). "The Varieties of Self-Transcendent Experience." Review of General Psychology 21(2): 143-160. [Link]
Vago, D. R. and D. A. Silbersweig (2012). "Self-awareness, self-regulation, and self-transcendence (S-ART): a framework for understanding the neurobiological mechanisms of mindfulness." Front Hum Neurosci 6: 296. [Link]
Vago, D. R. and F. Zeidan (2016). "The brain on silent: mind wandering, mindful awareness, and states of mental tranquility." Ann N Y Acad Sci 1373(1): 96-113. [Link]
Davis, J. H. and D. R. Vago (2014). "Can enlightenment be traced to specific neural correlates, cognition, or behavior? No, and (a qualified) Yes." Frontiers in Human Neuroscience. [Link]
The Power of Myth by Joseph Campbell
Transcend by Scott Barry Kauffman
Follow Dr. David Vago
* Website: https://www.contemplativeneurosciences.com/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dave_vago/\
*Twitter: https://twitter.com/dave_vago
*LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drvago/
*Roundglass: https://living.round.glass/sunny/people/David_Vago7n1k0lef/expert-profile
Follow John on the Socials:
* Twitter: https://twitter.com/Milesjohnr
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnrmiles.c0m
* Medium: https://medium.com/@JohnRMiles
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_r_miles
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/milesjohn/
* Blog: https://passionstruck.com/blog/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/passion_struck_podcast/
* Gear: https://www.zazzle.com/store/passion_struck/
-- John R Miles is a serial entrepreneur and the CEO and founder of Passion Struck. This full-service media company helps people live intentionally by creating best-in-class educational and entertainment content. John is also a prolific public speaker, venture capitalist, and author named to the ComputerWorld Top 100 IT Leaders.
John is the host of the Passion Struck Podcast; a show focused on exploring the mindset and philosophy world's most insightful people to learn their lessons to living intentionally and becoming the masters of their own life and destiny. Passion Struck aspires to speak to the humanity of people in a way that makes them want to live better, be better and impact.
Stay tuned for John's John's latest project, his upcoming book, which will be published in summer 2022. Learn more about me: https://johnrmiles.com.
New to this channel and the passion-struck podcast? Check out our starter packs which are our favorite episodes grouped by topic, to allow you to get a sense of all the podcast has to offer. Go to Spotify or https://passionstruck.com/starter-packs/.
Like this? Please join me on my new platform for peak performance, life coaching, self-improvement, intentional living, and personal growth: https://passionstruck.com/ and sign up for our email list.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Apr 8, 2022 • 25min
The Science of Learning: What is it and How does it Work? EP 122 with John R. Miles
We all learn differently and understanding the science of learning helps us all uniquely learn better. And the more we know, the easier it is to learn and understand new things regardless of your profession. | Brought to you by Grammarly (https://grammarly.com/passionstruck) and Raycon (https://buyraycon.com/passionstruck).
The science of learning is the ongoing process of information retention over time. Because our memory makes up the very framework through which we make sense of and take action within the present, its importance goes without saying. But how exactly does it work?
I use the unique story of Dr. Siddharth Warrier to illustrate how we learn and why lifelong learning is so important. To read further about today's episode, please visit the show notes on PassionStruck.com/passion_struck_podcast.
Thank you for listening to this episode. I hope you keep up with the weekly videos I post on the YouTube channel, subscribe to, and share your learnings with those who need to hear them. Your comments are my oxygen, so please take a second and say 'Hey' ;).
-- ► Subscribe to My Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/c/JohnRMiles
Thank You To Our Sponsors
This episode of Passion Struck with John R. Miles is brought to you by Grammarly. Level up your writing with advanced suggestions on grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and style. Get 20% off premium at https://grammarly.com/PASSIONSTRUCK.
This episode is also sponsored by Raycon. Raycon is a wireless audio brand that enables inspirational audio experiences. With an unapologetic willingness to shatter industry norms and a cost that is half of its competitors. Get 15% at https://buyraycon.com/passionstruck.
Our Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/passionstruck
Time Stamps
0:00 Why are humans the ultimate learning machine?
4:32 What it takes to learn: the Dr. Siddharth Warrier story
9:03 What does the science of learning entail?
10:18 The 3 aspects of the neuroscience of learning
15:16 How does the brain learn new information?
16:14 How do you help others learn better?
17:40 Can stress facilitate learning?
18:18 The science of learning principles
19:45 Analysis and synthesis
Show Resources
Bittersweet by Susan Cain
Check out my interview with Susan Cain.
Learning How to Learn: How to Succeed in School Without Spending All Your Time Studying; A Guide for Kids and Teens by Barbara Oakley
The New Science of Learning: How to Learn in Harmony With Your Brain.
Are you having trouble prioritizing yourself? John discusses the importance of self-love in Episode 104
John explains why materialism is impacting your success and happiness in episode 96.
Do you know the science of healthy habits? John explores this in-depth in Episode 108.
Suppose you missed our interview with Jen Bricker-Bauer on Everything is Possible. Don't panic! You can catch up by downloading it here.
How do you strengthen your relationship with your best self? Explore episode 110.
Find John on the Socials:
* Twitter: https://twitter.com/Milesjohnr
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnrmiles.c0m
* Medium: https://medium.com/@JohnRMiles
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_r_miles
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/milesjohn/
* Blog: https://passionstruck.com/blog/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/passion_struck_podcast/
* Gear: https://www.zazzle.com/store/passion_struck/
-- John R Miles is a serial entrepreneur and the CEO and founder of Passion Struck. This full-service media company helps people live intentionally by creating best-in-class educational and entertainment content. John is also a prolific public speaker, venture capitalist, and author named to the ComputerWorld Top 100 IT Leaders.
John is the host of the Passion Struck Podcast, a show focused on exploring the mindset and philosophy of the world's highest achievers to learn their lessons to living intentionally. Passion Struck aspires to speak to the humanity of people in a way that makes them want to live better, be better and impact.
Stay tuned for John's latest project, his upcoming book, which will be published in summer 2022. Learn more about me: https://johnrmiles.com.
New to this channel and the passion-struck podcast? Check out our starter packs which are our favorite episodes grouped by topic, to allow you to get a sense of all the podcast has to offer. Go to Spotify or https://passionstruck.com/starter-packs/.
Like this? Please join me on my new platform for peak performance, life coaching, self-improvement, intentional living, and personal growth: https://passionstruck.com/ and sign up for our email list.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Apr 5, 2022 • 1h 13min
Susan Cain on: Bittersweet, the Happiness of the Melancholy, and How Sorrow Creates the Union Between Souls EP 121
Susan Cain — Bittersweet, the Happiness of the Melancholy, How Sorrow Creates the Union Between Souls | Brought to you by Grammarly and Raycon.
Susan Cain is one of my favorite authors and completely changed the way I viewed myself and my own strengths. Susan is the author of the Quiet Journal, Quiet Power: The Secret Strengths of Introverts, and Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, which spent eight years on The New York Times bestseller list, and has been translated into 40 languages. Her new masterpiece, Bittersweet: How Sorrow and Longing Make Us Whole, is available now.
Susan’s first record-smashing TED Talk has been viewed more than 40 million times and was named by Bill Gates as one of his all-time favorite talks (and if you like that one, you should check out her most recent TED Talk with violinist Min Kym). LinkedIn named her the top sixth influencer in the world, just behind Richard Branson and Melinda Gates. Susan partners with Malcolm Gladwell, Adam Grant, and Dan Pink to curate the Next Big Idea Club. They donate all of their proceeds to children’s literacy programs.
Bittersweet: How Sorrow and Longing Make us Whole
In her new book, Susan discusses why sadness and the happiness of melancholy are key to achieving self-transcendence and the union between souls. As with the majority of people, you’ve probably been taught your entire life to look at the positive side and be happy no matter what. While there is a place for optimism and looking at the bright side, by burying your melancholy and sadness, you may actually be doing yourself a terrible disservice.
Please enjoy Susan Cain's episode and leave us a 5-Star rating if you love the episode. I know Susan and I would appreciate seeing listener comments. If you would like to watch this episode in addition to listening to it, you can view it here on our YouTube Channel. Please subscribe.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
This episode of Passion Struck with John R. Miles is brought to you by Grammarly. Level up your writing with advanced suggestions on grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, and style. Get 20% off premium at grammarly.com/PASSIONSTRUCK.
This episode is also sponsored by Raycon. Raycon is a wireless audio brand that enables inspirational audio experiences. With an unapologetic willingness to shatter industry norms and a cost that is half of its competitors. Get 15% at https://buyraycon.com/passionstruck.
Our Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/passionstruck.
Follow Susan Cain on the Socials
*Website: https://susancain.net/newsletter/
*Twitter: https://twitter.com/susancain/
*Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susancainauthor/
*Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorsusancain/
*LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susancain/
*Bittersweet: How Sorrow and Longing Makes us Whole by Susan Cain
Links from the Show:
Quiet Power: The Secret Strengths of Introverts
Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking
Susan’s Bittersweet Playlist | Spotify
The Power of Myth by Joseph Campbell
Transcend by Scott Barry Kauffman
The Compassionate Instinct by Dacher Keltner
Father and Son by Cat Stevens
The Whole of the Moon by the Waterboys
Anthem (Live in London) | Leonard Cohen
What is Kabbalah? | Reform Judaism
5 Teachings from the Japanese Wabi-Sabi Philosophy That Can Drastically Improve Your Life | Omar Itani
Rumi: The Wound is the Place Where the Light Enters You | The Search For Wisdom
Love Dogs by Rumi | The MERI Center at UCSF
The Science of Music: Why Do Songs in a Minor Key Sound Sad? | NME
Why Sad Songs Say So Much by Susan Cain | Quiet Revolution
Our Longing Back to the Garden of Eden | NIV
The Long Arm of Etymology, Or, Longing for Word Origins | OUPblog
Survival of the Fittest: Groups versus Individuals | Farnam Street
Dacher Keltner on the Vagus Nerve | Greater Good Science Center
Battle of Wits Scene | The Princess Bride
What Is Sufism? | Institute for Global Change
Somewhere Over the Rainbow | The Wizard of Oz
“…Our Hearts Are Restless…” An Analysis of One of the Greatest Sentences Ever Written | TGC
Beauty in Sorrow by Balaji Ravichandran | The Guardian
How to Turn Your Grief into Creativity | Baha’i Teachings
Follow John on the Socials:
* Twitter: https://twitter.com/Milesjohnr
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnrmiles.c0m
* Medium: https://medium.com/@JohnRMiles
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_r_miles
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/milesjohn/
* Blog: https://passionstruck.com/blog/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/passion_struck_podcast/
* Gear: https://www.zazzle.com/store/passion_struck/
-- John R Miles is a serial entrepreneur and the CEO and founder of Passion Struck. This full-service media company helps people live intentionally by creating best-in-class educational and entertainment content. John is also a prolific public speaker, venture capitalist, and author named to the ComputerWorld Top 100 IT Leaders.
John is the host of the Passion Struck Podcast; a show focused on exploring the mindset and philosophy world's most insightful people to learn their lessons to living intentionally and becoming the masters of their own life and destiny. Passion Struck aspires to speak to the humanity of people in a way that makes them want to live better, be better and impact.
Stay tunJohn's John's latest project, his upcoming book, which will be published in summer 2022. Learn more about me: https://johnrmiles.com.
New to this channel and the passion-struck podcast? Check out our starter packs which are our favorite episodes grouped by topic, to allow you to get a sense of all the podcast has to offer. Go to Spotify or https://passionstruck.com/starter-packs/.
Like this? Please join me on my new platform for peak performance, life coaching, self-improvement, intentional living, and personal growth: https://passionstruck.com/ and sign up for our email list.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Apr 1, 2022 • 24min
How Do You Create Your Own Success? EP 120
All around us, people talk about success all the time and the repercussions of what it is and how it is achieved weigh heavily in society today. These definitions are thrust on us by how others perceive our success and how we define it for ourselves. As I've discussed in previous episodes, many people define success in materialistic ways such as earning a degree, buying a house, a car, or a yacht. Others believe it is determined by their career, awards, accolades, and recognition. And some define success as getting married and having a family.
But have you ever thought that success is doing the things you love when you want to do them and with whom you want to do them with?
Famous author and leadership coach Miles Munroe once said, "True success is not a project but a journey." Munroe summarizes that success is not achieved by a single event but by a succession of steps and actions. The quote illustrates that we are never to conclude that a person is unsuccessful simply because of temporary situations that do not fit into the general definition of success.
In today's episode, I delve deep into the true meaning of success by examining the unique rags-to-riches success story of American businesswoman and Shark Tank celebrity investor Barbara Corcoran. Her example illustrates how you can achieve great things by defining success on your terms. We will also go into how you earn and measure true success.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
CODA: Get started having your team all working together on the same page for FREE. Head over to https://www.coda.io/PASSIONSTRUCK.
COINBASE: For a limited time, new users can get $10 in free Bitcoin when you sign up today at https://coinbase.com/PASSIONSTRUCK.
TRADE COFFEE: Trade is offering new subscribers a total of $30 off your first order plus free shipping when you go to https://wwwdrinktrade.com/passionstruck.
TEN THOUSAND: Ten Thousand is offering subscribers 15% off when you go to https://tenthousand.cc and use code PASSIONSTRUCK.
Thank you for listening to this podcast. I hope you keep up with the weekly videos I post on the channel, subscribe to, and share your learnings with those who need to hear them. Your comments are my oxygen, so please take a second and say 'Hey' ;). -- ► Subscribe to My Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/c/JohnRMiles
Show Resources
Shark Tales: How I Turned $1,000 into a Billion Dollar Business by Barbara Corcoran
True Meaning of Success Harvard Business Review Article
Unreasonable Success and How to Achieve It by Richard Koch
Are you having trouble prioritizing yourself? John discusses where you invest your love; you invest your life in Episode 104
John explains why materialism is impacting your success and happiness in episode 96.
Do you know the science of healthy habits? John explores this in-depth in Episode 108.
Suppose you missed our interview with Jen Bricker-Bauer on Everything is Possible. Don't panic! You can catch up by downloading it here.
How do you strengthen your relationship with your best self? Explore episode 110.
Find John on the Socials:
* Twitter: https://twitter.com/Milesjohnr
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnrmiles.c0m
* Medium: https://medium.com/@JohnRMiles
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_r_miles
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/milesjohn/
* Blog: https://passionstruck.com/blog/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/passion_struck_podcast/
* Gear: https://www.zazzle.com/store/passion_struck/
-- John R Miles is a serial entrepreneur and the CEO and founder of Passion Struck. This full-service media company helps people live intentionally by creating best-in-class educational and entertainment content. John is also a prolific public speaker, venture capitalist, and author named to the ComputerWorld Top 100 IT Leaders.
John is the host of the Passion Struck Podcast, a show focused on exploring the mindset and philosophy of the world's highest achievers to learn their lessons to living intentionally. Passion Struck aspires to speak to the humanity of people in a way that makes them want to live better, be better and impact.
Stay tuned for John's latest project, his upcoming book, which will be published in summer 2022. Learn more about me: https://johnrmiles.com.
New to this channel and the passion-struck podcast? Check out our starter packs which are our favorite episodes grouped by topic, to allow you to get a sense of all the podcast has to offer. Go to Spotify or https://passionstruck.com/starter-packs/.
Like this? Please join me on my new platform for peak performance, life coaching, self-improvement, intentional living, and personal growth: https://passionstruck.com/ and sign up for our email list.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mar 29, 2022 • 1h 10min
Dr. Jannell MacAulay On: How to Create a Mindset of Winning EP 119
Dr. Jannell MacAulay is a pilot, commander, special operations consultant, international diplomat, TEDx speaker, and professional instructor. She is a combat veteran with 20 years of experience in the US Air Force. Dr. MacAulay was the first leader to introduce mindfulness as a proactive performance strategy within the United States military.
About Today's Episode with Dr. Jannell MacAulay
I sit down with Jannell to discuss her decision to go to the Air Force Academy. We discuss how she learned how to be her best self through her flight training and serving in combat and her most harrowing flight experience. We discussed what made her start to do mindfulness and why she began to introduce it to her different military assignments. We explore the difference between leadership styles. We explore the difference between somebody who believes that you can change and somebody who thinks you can’t? Why does she believe world-class people, in whatever they do, are paragons of passion. She goes into why she equates mindfulness to doing mental push-ups. We explore her relationship with Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll, the training course they developed together, and more.
Thank you for listening to the Passion Struck podcast. I hope you keep up with the weekly videos I post on my YouTube channel, subscribe to, and share your learnings with those who need to hear them. Your comments are my oxygen, so please take a second and say 'Hey' ;). -- ► Subscribe to My Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/c/JohnRMiles.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
TRADE COFFEE: Trade is offering new subscribers a total of $30 off your first order plus free shipping when you go to https://wwwdrinktrade.com/passionstruck.
TEN THOUSAND: Ten Thousand is offering subscribers 15% off when you go to https://tenthousand.cc and use code PASSIONSTRUCK.
CODA: Get started having your team all working together on the same page for FREE. Head over to https://www.coda.io/PASSIONSTRUCK.
COINBASE: For a limited time, new users can get $10 in free Bitcoin when you sign up today at https://coinbase.com/PASSIONSTRUCK.
Time Stamps
0:00 Introduction and Announcements
4:23 Sponsors: Trade Coffee and Ten Thousand
7:16 Why Jannell MacAulay attended the Air Force Academy
11:47 Flying a C-130 through a bad Thunderstorm with Iraqi troops
17:43 Finding mindfulness and being a recovering perfectionist
21:52 The power of doing mental push-ups and using mindset minutes
29:05 Why you have to train your mind in a deliberate way
33:51 Why are people who are world class paragons of passion
37:15 Sponsors: CODA and Coinbase
39:08 Why veterans struggle when they leave the military
43:32 The importance of a clear purpose statement
45:35 How to fix disengagement in corporate settings
52:06 The story of Pete Carroll and Angela Duckworth
56:30 Why love is such a big word for Pete Carroll
1:01:46 Ligthening round of questions
1:07:08 Synthesis
FOLLOW DR. JANNELL MACAULAY
*Website: https://jannellmacaulay.com/
*Warriors Edge: https://competetocreate.net/warriors-edge/
*Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/macaulayjc/
*Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drjannellmacaulay/
*LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jannell-macaulay-phd-a187261/
Socials:
* Twitter: https://twitter.com/Milesjohnr
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnrmiles.c0m
* Medium: https://medium.com/@JohnRMiles
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_r_miles
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/milesjohn/
* Blog: https://passionstruck.com/blog/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/passion_struck_podcast/
* Gear: https://www.zazzle.com/store/passion_struck/
-- John R Miles is a serial entrepreneur and the CEO and founder of Passion Struck. This full-service media company helps people live intentionally by creating best-in-class educational and entertainment content. John is also a prolific public speaker, venture capitalist, and author named to the ComputerWorld Top 100 IT Leaders.
John is the host of the Passion Struck Podcast; a show focused on exploring the mindset and philosophy world's most insightful people to learn their lessons to living intentionally and becoming the masters of their own life and destiny. Passion Struck aspires to speak to the humanity of people in a way that makes them want to live better, be better and impact.
Stay tunJohn's John's latest project, his upcoming book, which will be published in summer 2022. Learn more about me: https://johnrmiles.com.
New to this channel and the passion-struck podcast? Check out our starter packs which are our favorite episodes grouped by topic, to allow you to get a sense of all the podcast has to offer. Go to Spotify or https://passionstruck.com/starter-packs/.
Like this? Please join me on my new platform for peak performance, life coaching, self-improvement, intentional living, and personal growth: https://passionstruck.com/ and sign up for our email list.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mar 25, 2022 • 20min
Why is Empathy Vital to Creating a Passion Struck Life? EP 118
President Barack Obama said, “The biggest problem we have in our society and the world right now is a lack of empathy. We are in great need of people being able to stand in somebody else’s shoes and see the world through their eyes.”
The gap that President Obama alludes to is only growing more expansive as we continually become a society consumed by self-gratitude instead of focusing on ending the suffering of others. That's why it's so important we work at being empathetic. Luckily, we can.
Empathy is a cornerstone for successful relationships, but it is a quality that has to be intentional. Most people like to feel understood, but the mark of maturity is in knowing how to demonstrate understanding. In the end, the knowledge you wish to receive becomes more likely essential adjustments that will help you become a more empathetic person and living life, passion struck.
Thank You to Our Sponsors:
Green Chef: Go to https://greenchef.com/passionstruck130 and use code passionstruck130 to get $130 off, plus free shipping!”
Ten Thousand: Go to https://tenthousand.cc and get 15% off with code PASSIONSTRUCK. Our Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/passionstruck
For all sponsorship deals, go to https://passionstruck.com/deals
Our Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/passionstruck
Thank you for listening to this podcast. I hope you keep up with the weekly videos I post on the channel, subscribe to, and share your learnings with those who need to hear them. Your comments are my oxygen, so please take a second and say 'Hey' ;). -- ► Subscribe to My Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/c/JohnRMiles
Timestamps:
0:00 Introducing empathy
2:23 Ten Thousand and Green Chef
5:31 What does it mean to be empathetic?
8:21Empathy definition and meaning.
9:24 Is empathy something that can be learned or something that we are born with?
11:51 Why is empathy important?
12:54 Is empathy a natural habit and what can I do to overcome a lack of empathy?
14:50 How is empathy given without getting overwhelmed?
15:36 How do you practice empathy?
17:00 Synthesis and conclusion
Show Resources
Bittersweet by Susan Cain
The Compassionate Instinct by Dacher Keltner, Jason Marsh, and Jeremy Smith
Be Beautiful, Be You by Lizzie Velasquez
The Healthy Mind Toolkit by Alice Boyes
Stress-Free Productivity by Alice Boyes
Are you having trouble prioritizing yourself? John discusses where you invest your love; you invest your life in Episode 104
John explains how your environment influences who you become in episode 102.
Do you know the science of healthy habits? John explores this in-depth in Episode 108.
Suppose you missed our interview with Jen Bricker-Bauer on Everything is Possible. Don’t panic! You can catch up by downloading it here.
Find John on the Socials:
* Twitter: https://twitter.com/Milesjohnr
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnrmiles.c0m
* Medium: https://medium.com/@JohnRMiles
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_r_miles
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/milesjohn/
* Blog: https://passionstruck.com/blog/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/passion_struck_podcast/
* Gear: https://www.zazzle.com/store/passion_struck/
-- John R Miles is a serial entrepreneur and the CEO and founder of Passion Struck. This full-service media company helps people live intentionally by creating best-in-class educational and entertainment content. John is also a prolific public speaker, venture capitalist, and author named to the ComputerWorld Top 100 IT Leaders.
John is the host of the Passion Struck Podcast, a show focused on exploring the mindset and philosophy of the world's highest achievers to learn their lessons to living intentionally. Passion Struck aspires to speak to the humanity of people in a way that makes them want to live better, be better and impact.
Stay tuned for John's latest project, his upcoming book, which will be published in summer 2022. Learn more about me: https://johnrmiles.com.
New to this channel and the passion-struck podcast? Check out our starter packs which are our favorite episodes grouped by topic, to allow you to get a sense of all the podcast has to offer. Go to Spotify or https://passionstruck.com/starter-packs/.
Like this? Please join me on my new platform for peak performance, life coaching, self-improvement, intentional living, and personal growth: https://passionstruck.com/ and sign up for our email list.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mar 22, 2022 • 59min
Rear Admiral Tim Gallaudet USN (Ret.) On: The Keys to Leading in Turbulent Times EP 117
The Honorable Tim Gallaudet, Ph.D., Rear Admiral, U.S. Navy (Ret), is the CEO of Ocean STL Consulting, LLC. Gallaudet served as the Acting Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere/NOAA Administrator and before that Assistant Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere/Deputy NOAA Administrator. Prior to NOAA, Admiral Gallaudet served for 32 years in the U.S. Navy, completing his career as the Oceanographer of the Navy. He was the American Blue Economy Podcast host from 2017 to 2021.
I sit down with Admiral Gallaudet to discuss his advice on holding fast in heavy seas and navigating turbulent times. We discuss Gallaudet's experience at the U.S. Naval Academy, and how that shaped the future leader he would become. Why some of his biggest lessons were learned from his time competitive swimming. What it means to be the Oceanagropher of the U.S. Navy and what that entails. His experience leading the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Some of the major initiatives he oversaw. The importance of the Blue Ocean Economy initiative and his focus on climate change, sustainable fishing, and preserving coral reefs. We discuss Tim's leadership principles and lastly his upcoming book Holding Fast in Heavy Seas.
Thank you for listening to the Passion Struck podcast. I hope you keep up with the weekly videos I post on my YouTube channel, subscribe to, and share your learnings with those who need to hear them. Your comments are my oxygen, so please take a second and say 'Hey' ;). -- ► Subscribe to My Channel Here: https://www.youtube.com/c/JohnRMiles.
Thank You to Our Sponsors:
Green Chef: Go to https://greenchef.com/passionstruck130 and use code passionstruck130 to get $130 off, plus free shipping!”
Ten Thousand: Go to https://tenthousand.cc and get 15% off with code PASSIONSTRUCK.
Our Patreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/passionstruck
Time Stamps
0:00 Introduction and Announcements
5:18 Green Chef and Ten Thousand
8:13 U.S. Naval Academy Experience
10:02 How competitive swimming impacted his life
13:00 USS Kitty Hawk Experience
15:46 What does an oceanographer do?
19:34 What does it mean to be that oceanographer for the U.S. Navy?
21:37 What is the NOAA mission and why is it important?
23:14 What is the blue economy initiative?
26:32 The impacts of climate change
29:50 Creating unmanned maritime systems
32:33 NOAA's partnership with Vulcan skylight system
37:07 The responsibility of the Undersecretary of Commerce
38:41 How leadership defined Tim Gallaudet's career
42:18 Tim's unique ability to remember people's names
48:12 What is more important EQ or AQ?
49:15 His upcoming book Holding Fast in Heavy Seas
53:52 Importance of public-private partnerships
55:18 Rapid question round
56:52 Conclusion and Synthesis
Follow RADM Tim Gallaudet
Website: https://www.oceanstl.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rear-admiral-tim-gallaudet-phd-us-navy-ret-b18185149/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GallaudetTim
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gallaudettim/
Socials:
* Twitter: https://twitter.com/Milesjohnr
* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnrmiles.c0m
* Medium: https://medium.com/@JohnRMiles
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/john_r_miles
* LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/milesjohn/
* Blog: https://passionstruck.com/blog/
* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/passion_struck_podcast/
* Gear: https://www.zazzle.com/store/passion_struck/
-- John R Miles is a serial entrepreneur and the CEO and founder of Passion Struck. This full-service media company helps people live intentionally by creating best-in-class educational and entertainment content. John is also a prolific public speaker, venture capitalist, and author named to the ComputerWorld Top 100 IT Leaders.
John is the host of the Passion Struck Podcast; a show focused on exploring the mindset and philosophy world's most insightful people to learn their lessons to living intentionally and becoming the masters of their own life and destiny. Passion Struck aspires to speak to the humanity of people in a way that makes them want to live better, be better and impact.
Stay tunJohn's John's latest project, his upcoming book, which will be published in summer 2022. Learn more about me: https://johnrmiles.com.
New to this channel and the passion-struck podcast? Check out our starter packs which are our favorite episodes grouped by topic, to allow you to get a sense of all the podcast has to offer. Go to Spotify or https://passionstruck.com/starter-packs/.
Like this? Please join me on my new platform for peak performance, life coaching, self-improvement, intentional living, and personal growth: https://passionstruck.com/ and sign up for our email list.
See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.