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
Apr 2, 2025 • 52min
Episode 323: "Building Up" with David Wise
What does it take to build trust, foster culture, and create lasting impact? In this episode, Dr. Milt Lowder sits down with David Wise, President & CEO of Harper General Contractors, who shares how trust serves as the foundation for meaningful growth. With over 34 years of experience, David has played a key role in transforming Greenville, SC into a thriving city. He discusses the power of culture, vocation as a calling, and some of his favorite construction projects. Tune in to discover how "building up" people builds up the world around us.
Mar 26, 2025 • 40min
Episode 322: Battle-Tested Leadership with Navy Special Operator Oran Feiner
What can business leaders learn from Navy special operations? In this episode, Dr. Cory Shaffer talks with retired Navy special operator Oran Feiner, who brings 20 years of leadership experience in the Navy warfare community. They explore the principles of high-stakes performance, building resilient teams, and leading with precision under pressure. Oran shares hard-earned insights on decision-making, adaptability, and fostering trust, skills that translate seamlessly from the battlefield to business and beyond.
Mar 19, 2025 • 37min
Episode 321: Getting Results with Extreme Commitment
How committed are you to the results you want? In this episode, Drs. Drew Brannon and Cory Shaffer break down the direct link between commitment and outcomes, using Navy Special Operators as a prime example of extreme dedication. They reveal how purposeful plans, clearly defined roles, and unwavering investment drive consistent, exceptional results. Whether in teams or personal pursuits, this episode offers a blueprint for turning ambitious goals into reality through relentless commitment.
Mar 12, 2025 • 39min
Episode 320: Three Keys to Keeping Composure
Have you ever lost your cool when the pressure was on? In this episode, Drs. Drew Brannon and Cory Shaffer reveal Three Truths About Composure, the key to staying calm, focused, and in control when it matters most. Composure is a powerful advantage that allows high performers to thrive under pressure. Without it, even the most capable individuals can struggle to reach their full potential. Tune in to discover practical strategies for mastering composure and unlocking your best performance.
Mar 5, 2025 • 34min
Episode 319: Raising Resilient Kids
How do we raise children who embrace challenges, value self-improvement, and develop mental resilience? In this episode, Dr. Cory Shaffer, AMPLOS mental performance coach and father of two, sits down with Connor Huston, AMPLOS Director of Content & Media and new dad, to explore practical strategies for fostering a growth mindset in kids. From gratitude practices to emotional intelligence and handling failure, this conversation is packed with actionable insights for parents looking to raise strong, mentally tough children.
Feb 26, 2025 • 32min
Episode 318: Overcoming Mental Traps to Strengthen Performance
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.
Feb 19, 2025 • 30min
Episode 317: Answering ChatGPT's Top Questions on Leadership & Adaptability
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.
Feb 12, 2025 • 37min
Episode 316: Escaping the Mediocrity Trap
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.
Feb 5, 2025 • 37min
Episode 315: Transform Stress to Work for You with Dr. Rebecca Heiss
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.
Jan 29, 2025 • 40min
Episode 314: Nike's Principles 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."
