The Growth Project
Dr. Milt Lowder, Dr. Drew Brannon, Dr. Cory Shaffer
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
6 snips
Sep 18, 2024 • 44min
Episode 295: How Self-Talk Shapes Your Reality
Marlee Johnson, a Clemson University PhD student and AMPLOS intern studying IO psychology, dives into the transformative power of self-talk. She discusses how our inner dialogue significantly affects our actions and emotional well-being. They emphasize courage as key to managing negative emotions and share insights on recognizing harmful self-talk. With personal anecdotes, they illustrate how positive self-talk can enhance resilience and performance, making it essential for both personal and professional growth.
Sep 11, 2024 • 39min
Episode 294: Mastering Workplace Conflict
Join Drs. Drew Brannon and Cory Shaffer as they explore the role of conflict in the workplace. While often seen as negative, they reveal how well-managed conflict can strengthen teams. Discover the four main triggers of organizational conflict and learn practical strategies to navigate the spectrum—from conflict-averse to overly aggressive—toward a balanced approach. Don't let artificial harmony hold your team back; embrace conflict to drive success and deeper relationships at work.
Sep 4, 2024 • 32min
Episode 293: College Football Week 1 Breakdown for Clemson, Georgia, and Oregon
Fresh off week 1 of college football, Drs. Milt Lowder, Drew Brannon, and Cory Shaffer, the mental performance experts behind Clemson, Georgia, and Oregon football programs, reflect on the opening games. With Georgia's victory over Clemson and Oregon's win over Idaho, they analyze their teams' performances, discuss how they're navigating early successes and challenges, and share their approach to redefining success and failure. Don't miss their insights as they gear up for Week 2 and the rest of the season.
Aug 28, 2024 • 37min
Episode 292: Winning Isn't For Everyone
How far would you go to win? Drs. Drew Brannon and Cory Shaffer explore the nuanced continuum of competition, from glorifying victory to questioning the value of participation trophies. Drawing on Nike's controversial "Winning Isn't For Everyone" Olympic commercial, they discuss whether top-level success demands an edginess and selfishness that borders on villainy. Tune in as they unpack the risks of this mindset, the intricacies of human nature, and how to find balance in the pursuit of excellence.
Aug 21, 2024 • 38min
Episode 291: Cowgirls Don't Cry with McKee Lowder
In this heartfelt episode, Dr. Milt Lowder and his daughter, McKee Lowder, engage in what has become a Lowder family tradition: reflecting on McKee’s childhood and the lessons learned as she prepares to embark on her journey to Clemson University. They discuss what it means to be your best, always remembering who you are, McKee's goals and dreams for college, and the importance of embracing the unknown. Join them for an emotional conversation filled with wisdom, love, and the excitement of new beginnings.
Aug 14, 2024 • 44min
Episode 290: Learning to Become a Pro with Olympian Danielle Williams
Fresh from the 2024 Olympics in Paris, Dr. Cory Shaffer talks with Jamaican track and field star Danielle Williams about the demanding lifestyle of an elite athlete, exploring the highs and lows of Williams’ career, including gold-medal wins at the 2015 and 2023 World Championships. Williams shares her insights on navigating failure, cultivating a resilient mindset, and the relentless pursuit of greatness. Tune in to discover the true grit behind her journey.
Aug 7, 2024 • 27min
Episode 289: The Intersection of Joy and Excellence
Are you making it easier or harder for those around you to experience joy and strive for excellence? Drs. Milt Lowder and Drew Brannon explore the profound impact of our actions on ourselves and others. They dive deep into the intersection of joy and excellence, revealing how a positive mindset can create a powerful ripple effect. Tune in for insightful discussions and actionable strategies to maximize joy and excellence in every aspect of your life.
Jul 31, 2024 • 31min
Episode 288: Nurturing Teamwork as a Core Skill with Marlee Johnson
Join Dr. Cory Shaffer and Clemson University PhD student and AMPLOS intern, Marlee Johnson, as they discuss her research on team dynamics. Discover how viewing teamwork as a skill rather than shifting blame to individuals can transform performance. Learn strategies for involving all team members, regardless of their role, in creating and sustaining a high-performing, "sticky" culture that retains talent long-term.
Jul 24, 2024 • 29min
Episode 287: Naivety is a Superpower
Naivety is often seen as a flaw, but in this episode, Drs. Milt Lowder and Drew Brannon reveal how it can be a superpower, sparking wonder, excitement, and curiosity. They discuss how age often erodes this youthful perspective, sharing cautionary tales about the consequences of losing naivety. Learn practical strategies for preserving elements of naivety while simulatenously growing in wisdom, helping you sustain enthusiasm and a sense of wonder in life. Tune in to discover how to balance wisdom with a childlike spirit.
Jul 17, 2024 • 53min
Episode 286: Thrive Under Pressure
Using recent sports examples — Rory McIlroy's U.S. Open lead loss and Barbora Krejcikova's comeback win in the Women's Wimbledon Final — Drs. Drew Brannon and Cory Shaffer discuss not succumbing to pressure when the stakes are high. They explore three categories of pressure — physical, mental, and emotional — and share practical tips to help you reframe stress and perform well under pressure. Discover how to thrive when stakes are high.
