The Growth Project

In this episode, Drs. Milt Lowder and Cory Shaffer continue their deep dive into the topic of mental toughness. They begin by unpacking why mental toughness is such a challenging concept to define, then turn to a foundational study in sport psychology (Jones et al., 2002) that identifies key traits of mentally tough performers. Focusing on three of those core characteristics, they explore how these qualities show up in high-performing individuals across sport, business, and everyday life.

In this episode, Drs. Drew Brannon and Katie Nichols break down two essential elements leaders must embrace to build mentally resilient teams, exploring what it takes to foster grit, composure, and confidence in the face of adversity. Whether you're coaching athletes or leading in the workplace, this conversation offers practical strategies for developing toughness that lasts.

In this episode, Dr. Cory Shaffer sits down with professional golfer Doc Redman for an inside look at his journey through the ranks of competitive golf. Doc shares how his definition of success has shifted over time and how staying grounded in process and routine has helped him navigate the highs and lows of life on tour. This conversation offers valuable perspective on growth, resilience, and what it really means to pursue excellence.

In this episode, we revisit some of the standout moments from our April conversations, all centered around the theme of focus. Highlights include practical takeaways from our team of performance psychologists as well as insights from special guest Art Seaver, CEO of Southern First Bank, on leading with clarity and intention. Whether you're looking to sharpen your own focus or lead others more effectively, this recap pulls together some of the month’s most valuable lessons.

In this episode, Drs. Drew Brannon and Cory Shaffer continue their conversation on focus, diving into how and why it shifts in high-pressure moments. They explore what it takes to stay locked in when the stakes are high, highlighting the role of routine, process, and presence. You'll also hear practical techniques for calming the mind and body when stress threatens to take over.

In this episode, Drs. Drew Brannon and Milt Lowder explore practical strategies for strengthening focus and prioritizing what truly matters. They discuss how leaders can create environments that eliminate distractions, foster attention, and support high performance. The conversation also touches on Kliff Kingsbury’s unconventional approach to team meetings with the Arizona Cardinals—sparking a broader discussion about how structure can either support or sabotage focus.

In this episode, Dr. Milt Lowder is joined by Art Seaver, CEO of Southern First Bank, for a meaningful conversation about values-driven leadership. Art shares the guiding principles that have shaped his life and leadership—and how those values have fueled Southern First’s growth and culture. Together, they explore the power of service, acting with intention, and staying aligned with what you believe—both inside the organization and in the broader community.

In this episode, Drs. Drew Brannon and Milt Lowder unpack the power of aligning individuals and teams around a clear set of core values. They explore how values serve as the foundation for team culture, how they connect to the standards you uphold, and why this alignment is essential for personal and collective growth. Whether you lead in sports, business, or education, this conversation offers practical insights for building a values-driven environment where people can thrive.

In this episode, Drs. Drew Brannon and Katie Nichols explore three core fundamentals of positive coaching. Drawing on her impactful work at the University of Missouri, Dr. Nichols unpacks practical strategies that help leaders bring out the best in their teams. Whether you’re leading in athletics, business, or any other arena, these principles offer valuable guidance for creating a culture of trust, accountability, and growth.

In this episode, Dr. Drew Brannon sits down with Coach Scott Fountain, Special Teams Coordinator at the University of Georgia. With 28 years of coaching experience, Coach Fountain has been a key figure in the Bulldogs’ recent success. He shares the story of how his passion for football took root, the intentional vision he set for his life and career, and the strategies he uses to navigate the demanding world of Power 5 college football. Through it all, Coach Fountain reflects on the deep rewards of mentoring athletes and helping them grow both on and off the field.