The Growth Project

Transitions, whether planned or unexpected, can be challenging, disruptive, and even disorienting. In this episode, Drs. Drew Brannon and Cory Shaffer unpack the often-overlooked potential that lies within transitional moments. They explore how transitions can serve as powerful catalysts for growth and development, but only if we’re willing to meet them with openness, curiosity, and intention. If you're navigating a change in your life or leadership, this conversation offers insight and encouragement for embracing what's next.

In today’s episode, Drs. Drew Brannon and Milt Lowder explore the tension between what we desire—vulnerability, authenticity, and inner strength—and the discomfort required to achieve it. They outline three actionable steps that help us move closer to these powerful traits by embracing discomfort, opening ourselves up, and choosing growth over fear. This conversation invites listeners to live with greater freedom, purpose, and courage in a world that often rewards self-protection over self-awareness.

In this episode, Dr. Cory Shaffer and Dr. Katie Nichols explore the vital role of relationships in our pursuit of well-being and personal growth. Using Arnold Schwarzenegger’s life as a powerful case study, they unpack how mentorship, connection, and support from others can carry us through both triumph and adversity. This conversation reminds us that we are not meant to go it alone and that investing in meaningful relationships may be one of the most powerful tools for building resilience and purpose.

In this episode, Dr. Katie Nichols sits down with Shimmy Gray-Miller, Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach at Clemson University, for a powerful conversation about the lasting impact we have on one another. Coach Shimmy shares how authentic relationships form the foundation of a flourishing life, both on and off the court. This episode is a reminder that success isn’t just about performance... it’s about people, purpose, and the connections that shape who we become.

In the final installment of our gratitude series, Drs. Drew Brannon and Milt Lowder respond to real questions from listeners—exploring how gratitude intersects with success, failure, trauma, and resilience. They discuss how to find strength in gratitude even when life is hard, and how this mindset can help us process pain, build perspective, and stay grounded. This honest and hopeful conversation is a powerful conclusion to the series.

In Part 2 of The Strength of Gratitude, Drs. Drew Brannon and Katie Nichols dig deeper into how we can actively cultivate a grateful heart and why doing so benefits not just our mindset, but also our most meaningful relationships. With practical insights and relatable examples, they show how practicing gratitude consistently can help us navigate life with greater presence, connection, and purpose.

In Part 1 of our three-part series on gratitude, Drs. Cory Shaffer and Katie Nichols explore the power of gratitude in shaping mindset, resilience, and performance. Dr. Nichols shares the story of Brenda Martinez, an elite American track and field athlete whose Olympic dream was nearly lost after a heartbreaking fall in the 800-meter qualifier. Just days later, Martinez secured a spot on Team USA in the 1500-meter, an achievement fueled by her ability to reframe adversity through gratitude. This episode reveals how gratitude can be a powerful reset in the face of disappointment.

In this episode, Drs. Milt Lowder and Drew Brannon explore the timeless concept of servant leadership. Drawing from the work of Robert Greenleaf, the founder of the modern servant leadership movement, they unpack what it truly means to lead through service. The conversation highlights the lasting impact of this leadership style, the personal and organizational benefits it creates, and the common barriers that prevent leaders from putting others first. Whether you’re leading a team, a company, or a family, this episode challenges you to rethink how you lead.

In Part 2 of this series on humility, Drs. Drew Brannon and Katie Nichols explore three common obstacles that hinder the development of true humility and why overcoming them is essential for effective leadership and a healthy team culture. They also share practical action steps leaders can take to cultivate humility in themselves and their teams, creating an environment grounded in trust, growth, and mutual respect.

Humility and confidence are often seen as opposites, but what if the two can actually fuel one another? In Part 1 of this series on humility, Drs. Drew Brannon and Cory Shaffer challenge the misconception that being humble means lacking belief in oneself. Using a recent example from the U.S. Open Men’s Tennis Final, they explore how humility and confidence not only coexist but also create a powerful foundation for sustained performance and leadership. This episode offers a fresh perspective on what it means to compete, and lead, with both strength and grace.