The Growth Project

What holds you back from reaching your full potential? In this episode, Dr. Cory Shaffer sits down with Clemson PhD student and AMPLOS intern Marlee Johnson to explore the psychology of high performance—both individually and within a team. They break down the biggest mental traps that hinder success and tackle compelling questions related to performance, including: If you could eliminate one self-limiting behavior in most people, what would it be? Tune in for actionable insights to elevate your mindset and performance.

In this episode, Dr. Cory Shaffer and Clemson PhD student and AMPLOS intern Marlee Johnson answer top questions curated by ChatGPT, diving into the overlooked trends in leadership and performance psychology. They explore how to cultivate adaptability in a fast-changing world and share expert insights on navigating challenges in work, sport, and life. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that blends research, experience, and practical strategies to help you stay ahead.

Are you stuck in the mediocrity trap—settling for comfort instead of striving for growth? In this episode, Drs. Drew Brannon and Cory Shaffer break down what keeps us stagnant and how to create the escape velocity needed to break free from being “happy enough.” They explore key mindset shifts and actionable strategies to push beyond average and pursue excellence. Tune in for a compelling conversation on moving past mediocrity and unlocking your full potential.

We all experience stress, but what if you could make it work for you instead of against you? Dr. Cory Shaffer talks with Dr. Rebecca Heiss, stress physiologist and author of Springboard: Transform Stress to Work For You, to explore how we can reframe our perspective on stress. She breaks down her three-step process to harness stress, turning it into a powerful tool for growth and performance. Their conversation challenges common misconceptions and offers practical strategies to transform stress into a catalyst for success.

In this special live episode from TPM’s annual kickoff in downtown Greenville, SC, Drs. Milt Lowder and Cory Shaffer dive into five of Nike’s Principles that fuel their iconic success. They explore why having principles is essential as a guiding north star and break down powerful ideas like “our business is change,” “offense all the time,” and “it won’t be pretty.” Learn how embracing these principles can drive meaningful change and make success “damn near automatic.”

The 2024 college football season was one to remember - filled with dramatic twists and valuable lessons. Drs. Drew Brannon and Cory Shaffer, sport psychologists for Georgia and Oregon football, reflect on the season's end, unpack key takeaways, and share lessons that resonate far beyond the field. They explore how mindset shapes performance at the highest level and offer valuable insights into fostering resilience, managing pressure, and turning challenges into opportunities for growth. Whether you’re a fan, athlete, or leader, this episode has something for everyone.

In this episode, Dr. Cory Shaffer sits down with three-time Emmy-winning EPSN sports broadcaster Anne Marie Anderson to discuss her book, Cultivating Audacity: Dismantle Doubt and Let Yourself Win. Anne Marie shares how embracing bold risks and confronting fear transformed her career and personal growth. Discover the four barriers that hold you back—fear, time, money, and your inner critic—and learn how to work with them instead of letting them drive your decisions.

Research show that about 30% of Americans set New Year’s resolutions, yet only 9% see them through to the end of the year. As we age, the likelihood of setting goals diminishes even further. Drs. Drew Brannon and Cory Shaffer break down why most resolutions fail before February and present a proven framework for success. They share actionable strategies to set meaningful goals, build sustainable habits, and stay motivated. Learn how to own your resolutions and achieve what matters most in 2025!

In this special episode, Drs. Milt Lowder, Drew Brannon, and Cory Shaffer close out 2024 and welcome 2025 with thoughtful reflections and fresh insights. Revisiting unanswered audience questions from the 300th episode live event, including the 3 leadership attributes that drive peak performance, practical strategies to recover from and prevent burnout, and powerful ways to jumpstart personal growth, they provide actionable advice, and a chance to start the new year with purpose and clarity.

The holiday season is often filled with joy, but it can also bring unique challenges. How can we find harmony amidst festive celebrations layered onto already busy schedules? In this episode, Drs. Milt Lowder and Cory Shaffer dive into the delicate balance between work and rest during the holidays. They highlight the essential connection between productivity and renewal for achieving peak performance and fulfillment. Whether you’re someone who finds it hard to slow down or struggles to reengage, this conversation offers actionable insights and practical strategies to help you strike the right balance and fully embrace the season.