The Growth Project

Join Drs. Milt Lowder and Cory Shaffer as they reflect on their experiences at The Masters. The conversation dives into their lessons learned as mental coaches with golfers at the PGA's most prestigious tournament. Topics discussed include how to be fully present, what goes into quality preparation, how to set proper goals, and how to manage energy and distractions. Tune in for a behind the scenes look into the preparation and mindset of high performers at one of the most anticipated sporting events of each year.

In this episode, Drs. Drew Brannon and Cory Shaffer discuss the importance of reflection and living in the moment. They discuss how self-evaluation is an important part of the process to create growth in the workplace, field, or at home. Drew personally reflects on the highlights of his recent 75 mile relay race from Asheville to Greenville and the key lessons he learned during and beyond the race.

In this episode, Drs. Milt Lowder and Cory Shaffer discuss the hallmark characteristics and differences between a growth and a fixed mindset and how these principles have shaped their outlooks and perspectives on learning and development. The touch on how these mindsets are reinforced and developed over time, how failure can be a catalyst for change, and how those with a growth mindset tend to experience more joy along the journey to "success."

In this episode, Dr. Milt Lowder and Dr. Cory Shaffer discuss goal setting. Each new year, many people look to set New Year's Resolutions. Unfortunately, many resolutions will be forgotten or abandoned by February due to a variety of reasons: a lack of awareness as to why they are striving for a particular resolution, not taking the right kind of action for effective growth, or a lack of accountability or support system. Listen in as Milt and Cory discuss various topics on goal setting, including: the process of creating growth that lasts, S.M.A.R.T. goals, taking a process-oriented approach, and the difference between goals and expectations. We hope you enjoy and Happy New Year!

In this episode, Dr. Cory Shaffer sits down with Monte Lee, Head Baseball Coach at Clemson University, for an inspiring conversation on leadership, resilience, and purpose. Coach Lee shares how his passion for coaching began in childhood, how he defines success through helping others grow from failure, and how his South Carolina roots and trusted mentors have shaped his approach. Packed with hard-earned wisdom, this episode offers valuable lessons for anyone striving to lead, teach, or grow—on or off the field.

In this episode, Dr. Milt Lowder sits down with Scott Wigginton, President of Greyrock Accounting, for a candid conversation on leadership, service, and the true meaning of success. Scott shares how he defines success beyond the bottom line, how he cultivates a thriving culture at Greyrock, and why putting people first is key to lasting impact.

In this episode, Dr. Drew Brannon sits down with Furman University Women’s Tennis Coach, Adam Herendeen, to discuss his take on developing collegiate student-athletes and his growth as a coach. Adam is the 2016 and 2017 Southern Conference Coach of the Year and has also completed his USTA High Performance Coaching Certification. Adam has a true appreciation for the process of learning and works relentlessly to get the best out of himself and his players.

In this episode, Dr. Drew Brannon and Dr. Cory Shaffer discuss pressure. They dig into how pressure affects performers both mentally and physiologically, how to properly appraise pressure situations, and how training with intent and purpose eliminates pressure and fear of failure. Listen in to learn how to focus on the moment - rather than the magnitude of the moment - to consistently perform at your best. 

In this episode, Dr. Cory Shaffer has a conversation with Nik Conklin, Assistant Director of New and Creative Media for Clemson Athletics. You'll hear Nik discuss how he has grown as a leader and mentor, how surrounding himself with talented, motivated people helps him be at his best, and how he defines success in a field that is always evolving and pushing the limits of creativity.

Eddie Radwanski, Head Coach of the Clemson Women's Soccer program, discusses how his leadership has been shaped and influenced by the people in his life, why he does what he does, how he believes that true leaders are servants to others, and how he continues to learn and grow as a coach. Interview by Dr. Cory Shaffer.