The Growth Project
Dr. Milt Lowder, Dr. Drew Brannon, Dr. Cory Shaffer, Dr. Gabriela Caviedes
Our group is traditionally trained in sport and performance psychology, and in the spirit of what we do, the purpose of our podcast is to make a positive impact on your life and challenge you to think differently on topics related to growth. Through conversations with coaches, athletes, executives, and leaders of industry, we will explore and highlight the mindset and skillset required for lasting growth. Ultimately, we exist to provide you with the tools to become the best version of you. At AMPLOS, we're passionate about helping you pursue better.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Nov 19, 2025 • 46min
Episode 356: How to Scale Without Losing Your Why with Kathy Ligon
In this episode, Dr. Milt Lowder sits down with Kathy Ligon, Founder & CEO of HINGE Advisors, to explore how leaders can scale without losing sight of their mission. Drawing on 40+ years in educational operations and more than 400 completed transactions, Kathy shares hard-earned lessons on building value rooted in purpose, people, and community. She unpacks how to grow responsibly, navigate transitions, and stay grounded in what matters most. Tune in for a compelling conversation for anyone committed to meaningful, mission-aligned growth.
Nov 12, 2025 • 34min
Episode 355: Why Stress Isn't Always the Enemy
In this episode, Drs. Milt Lowder and Gabriela Caviedes unpack why stress isn't always the enemy; it's often a signal for growth. They explore how to reframe your relationship with pressure and use it to fuel focus, motivation, and performance readiness. Drawing from both psychology and physiology, they explain what happens in your body under stress and share practical tools to manage it more effectively. Learn how to turn pressure into an advantage rather than a threat.
Nov 5, 2025 • 39min
Episode 354: Confidence Isn't Fixed, It's Forged
Confidence isn't something you're born with, it's something you build. In this episode, Drs. Drew Brannon and Gabriela Caviedes unpack the truth about confidence as a skill you can sharpen over time. They explore what strengthens and erodes it, the myths that hold people back, and the mindset and tools that help confidence become a steady foundation rather than a fleeting feeling. Tune in to learn how to grow yours from the inside out.
Oct 29, 2025 • 35min
Episode 353: Understanding Mental Rest and Why It Matters (Part 2)
In part two of this series, Dr. Drew Brannon and Dr. Gabriela Caviedes move from awareness to application, exploring how to incorporate mental rest into your daily life. They discuss the four key types of rest (detachment, relaxation, control, and variety) and share practical strategies for finding balance in a busy world. Discover how intentionally creating space for mental rest can become a competitive advantage, helping you perform, lead, and live with greater clarity and energy.
Oct 22, 2025 • 36min
Episode 352: Understanding Mental Rest and Why It Matters (Part 1)
You can't perform your best if your mind isn't getting the rest it needs. Dr. Drew Brannon and Dr. Gabriela Caviedes kick off a two-part series on mental rest, exploring how the demands we face each day shape our energy, focus, and well-being. In this episode, they unpack the three primary types of demands, physical, cognitive, and emotional, and share what it takes to truly detach, relax, and regain control in a demanding world.
Oct 15, 2025 • 33min
Episode 351: Meet Dr. Gabriela Caviedes - A New Voice on The Growth Project
We're excited to welcome the newest member of the AMPLOS team and co-host of The Growth Project, Dr. Gabriela "Gabby" Caviedes. In this episode, Dr. Milt Lowder sits down with her to explore the story behind her path into the world of mental performance. Gabby shares formative experiences in sport, pivotal moments of growth, and the philosophy that guides her work today. Join us as we get to know Gabby's journey and the heart behind her mission to help others pursue better.
Oct 8, 2025 • 32min
Episode 350: Are Dynasties Over in the New Era of College Football?
Six weeks into the college football season, Drs. Drew Brannon and Cory Shaffer break down the shifting landscape of the game. Referencing Lane Kiffin's recent remark that "dynasties are over," they explore what's fueling the new era of parity and razor-thin margins across college football. With talent and resources more evenly spread than ever, the mental game has become the true differentiator, placing a premium on a team's ability to prepare, focus, and execute at the highest level.
Oct 1, 2025 • 41min
Episode 349: Behind the Mic - Dr. Cory Shaffer's Story with Dr. Kimberly Shaffer
After four appearances, Dr. Kimberly Shaffer officially holds the record as the most frequent guest on The Growth Project, but this time she's switching roles. In a special twist, Kim steps in as host and turns the spotlight on her husband, Dr. Cory Shaffer. From his early influences and career path to the lessons learned along the way, this candid conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at Cory's journey.
Sep 24, 2025 • 36min
Episode 348: Culture, Consistency, and Coaching with Brad Brownell
What does it take to lead with vision, consistency, and purpose in college basketball? In this episode, Dr. Cory Shaffer sits down with Clemson Men's Basketball Head Coach Brad Brownell. Together, they dive into Coach Brownell's leadership philosophy and his approach to building and sustaining culture. From the challenges of guiding young athletes to the values that drive success both on and off the court, this conversation offers timeless insights for leaders in every field.
Sep 17, 2025 • 43min
Episode 347: The Psychology of Pitching
What does it take to step onto the mound with confidence? In this episode, Dr. Milt Lowder and Dr. Cory Shaffer dive into the psychology of pitching, exploring mindset, focus, and resilience under pressure. They break down the mental strategies that help pitchers succeed and reveal how these same principles can be applied to everyday challenges. Whether you're an athlete, leader, or parent, discover how the lessons of pitching can strengthen your own performance and mindset.
