About the Guest

Idris Haroon is a former professional football player who had a noteworthy journey through college and professional sports. He played as a defensive lineman at the University of Arizona and later in the Canadian Football League (CFL) with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. Post his athletic career, Haroon transitioned into the business world, leveraging his leadership and teamwork skills to excel in corporate America. He now serves as an executive and entrepreneur, founding DWD Moving Services, a logistics company that specializes in niche markets like research lab and college coach relocations. As an advocate for resilience and adaptability, Haroon continues to inspire with his dedication to building businesses and leading teams.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Becoming UnDone® Toby Brooks sits down with Idris Haroon to explore the transformative journey from college athlete to professional football player, and finally to a successful entrepreneur. Haroon shares his experiences at the University of Arizona, under the guidance of Coach Dick Tomey, and how Tomey's philosophies on team and leadership have continued to influence his life. Despite not making it to the NFL, Haroon's career in the CFL provided valuable life lessons that he later applied in the corporate and entrepreneurial realms. Through his company, DWD Moving Services, Haroon identifies niche opportunities and leads with a commitment to excellence and innovation.

The conversation delves deep into the life-changing moments Haroon experienced post-football, highlighting the resilience required to transition from sports to business. With insightful anecdotes, Haroon discusses the challenges of founding a logistics company, navigating personal and financial risks, and overcoming doubts. His unique approach to treating corporate America as his "NFL" showcases the importance of adaptability and the role that perseverance plays in achieving success beyond the field. Listeners will gain insight into Haroon's entrepreneurial spirit, his ability to turn setbacks into strategies, and how he champions others to redefine what it means to win.

Key Takeaways

• Idris Haroon reveals how playing football taught him valuable leadership and teamwork skills which are transferable to any career, especially entrepreneurship.
• The episode highlights Haroon's transition from professional sports to corporate America and his eventual step into entrepreneurship with DWD Moving Services.
• Haroon underscores the importance of resilience and perseverance in the face of setbacks, drawing on lessons learned under Coach Dick Tomey.
• The discussion touches on the power of identifying niche markets within a saturated industry to achieve business success.
• Haroon shares personal success strategies, emphasizing the significance of treating career transitions as new opportunities rather than endings.

Notable Quotes

1. "The beauty of having coaches in your life is you see great examples of leaders at a young age."
2. "Having multiple voices in your head is a healthy thing. You're not crazy."
3. "I'm going to treat the real world like it's my NFL."
4. "Once I was able to

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Support the show

Becoming UnDone® is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

About the Host

Toby Brooks, PhD is the host of the Becoming UnDone® podcast, a speaker, author, performance scientist, and professor. With two decades of experience in the professional and collegiate sports realms, Dr. Brooks specializes in understanding what sets high achievers apart. He serves Baylor University, although the podcast operates independently as an avenue for sharing his research and insights on the mindset necessary for achieving excellence.

Episode Summary

In this rejuvenating episode of Becoming UnDone®, Dr. Toby Brooks delves into the transformative power of consistently showing up, especially when life seems to pull you apart. As the new year brings a wave of resolutions and renewed commitments, Dr. Brooks challenges the notion that personal growth happens naturally. Instead, he emphasizes intentionality in combating entropy and reaching new levels of personal and professional achievement.

Dr. Brooks introduces the concept of Kaizen, the Japanese principle of continuous improvement, illustrating through the legacy of John Wooden how marginal yet consistent efforts lead to monumental outcomes. This episode navigates through themes of persistence, dedication, and incremental progress, particularly in challenging moments when motivation dwindles. With anecdotes from his personal life and professional journey, Toby provides listeners with actionable strategies to nurture a growth mindset, strengthen resilience, and achieve lasting transformation.

Key Takeaways

• Growth Needs Intentionality: Personal development is not passive; it requires deliberate, consistent efforts to counteract disorder and decline.
• Principle of Kaizen: Small, regular steps, as demonstrated by John Wooden's coaching techniques, lead to significant and sustained improvements.
• The Ripple Effect: Your persistence can inspire those around you, creating positive ripple effects in your community and personal circles.
• Holistic Growth: Inspired by Jesus' model of development, balance mental, physical, spiritual, and social growth.
• Resilience as Leadership: Showing up consistently, even when difficult, can provide hope and courage to others. 

Notable Quotes

• "The heart of kaizen is that small steps taken consistently lead to big, lasting change."
• "Every time you choose to show up…you're literally readapting your brain and maintaining your momentum."
• "Your persistence gives someone else hope."
• "Even Jesus showed up to grow…what excuse do we have?"
• "Being Undone isn't the end of your story. It might just be the start of your best chapter yet."

Resources

• Visit scienceofthecomeback.com for the "Becoming Undone Coaching App," aimed at guiding high achievers through their next chapter.
• Follow Toby Brooks, PhD, on social media for additional insights and content surrounding personal development and high achievement.
• Explore past episodes of the podcast, such as the conversation with Brandon McCoy in Episode 146, for more discussions on personal and professional growth.

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming UnDone® is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

About the Guest

Brandon McCoy is a distinguished custom paint artist and graphic designer based out of Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. Known professionally as Gooch Customs, Brandon has garnered a nationwide reputation for his unique approach to car graphics, pinstriping, and mixed media art. His journey from a small-town upbringing to becoming a respected name in the automotive art scene highlights his dedication and passion. With a style deeply rooted in '90s mini-truck culture, his work spans from custom vehicles to viral objects like intricately designed toilets that capture a nostalgic yet contemporary aesthetic. Brandon's expertise extends to teaching custom paint classes and his work is highly sought after by clients and advertisers alike who value his bold and authentic designs.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Becoming UnDone®, host Toby Brooks invites Brandon McCoy, the mind behind Gooch Customs, to share his enthralling journey from a small-town Kansas upbringing to an eminent name in custom automotive artistry. The episode delves into how Brandon navigated his early life challenges, transitioning from restoring cars to embracing art as a full-time career, driven by social media's transformative power. With over two decades of honing his craft, Brandon infuses an unapologetic boldness into everything he creates—from mini-trucks and bike tanks to unusual objects, like the famous painted toilets, that have made waves at renowned events such as SEMA.

Brandon offers insights into his creative process, emphasizing the significance of trusting one's style and the pursuit of authenticity over perfection. Social media's role in Brandon's rise is discussed, showcasing how it allowed him to reach a global audience and exploit unconventional ideas that captivate the masses. Highlighting themes of resilience, passion, and innovation, this episode is a testament to the power of a determined, creative spirit and the adventures of establishing oneself as a noteworthy artisan in a competitive field. Listeners will find inspiration in Brandon's story of forging a distinctive path and embracing every artistic challenge with courage and commitment.

Key Takeaways

• Authenticity Over Perfection: Brandon underscores the value of authenticity in art, asserting that "it's impossible for art to be perfect, if it's perfect, it's not art."
• Social Media Influence: The pivotal role of social media in expanding Brandon’s reach and client base, exemplified by his viral paint jobs on unconventional canvases like toilets.
• Challenges as Catalysts: Brandon's journey emphasizes embracing obstacles, with experiences like being fired and working from a small garage fueling his drive.
• Community and Relationships: The importance of community is highlighted through Brandon's connections within the mini-truck scene and his commitment to teaching upcoming artists.
• Passion and Persistence: The enduring theme throughout is the relentless pursuit of passion, where art serves as both livelihood and sanctuary.

Notable Quotes

• "If it's perfect, it's not art. It's as simple as that."
• "As long as I can wake up and

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming UnDone® is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

About the Guest

Marissa Nehlsen is a renowned financial strategist, transformational coach, and motivational speaker recognized for her journey from impoverished roots to managing billions in assets. Born into generational poverty and raised in a home rife with trauma and dysfunction, she forged a path of resilience, later becoming a powerhouse in the financial industry. Beyond her role as a financial expert, Marissa is a member of the John Maxwell leadership team and an author of the book "Live Life Rich." She is passionate about empowering others through her journey of overcoming adversity to achieve success and fulfillment.

Episode Summary

In this compelling episode of Becoming UnDone®, host Toby Brooks dives into the extraordinary journey of Marissa Nehlsen, a financial strategist and transformational leader who rose from adversity to success. From enduring childhood abuse and poverty in North Dakota to becoming a mentor in the John Maxwell team, Marissa's story is not only inspiring but profoundly educational. This episode explores themes of resilience, empowerment, and overcoming challenges to find purpose and change lives.

Throughout the conversation, Marissa recounts her harrowing experiences from childhood, highlighting the pivotal moments that steered her towards resilience. The episode richly showcases Marissa's transformational journey, emphasizing her belief that adversity can be a stepping stone to one's highest potential. Discover how Marissa's faith, philosophy of living victoriously, and her endeavor to redefine 'wealth' interlink across her life story. Her narrative beckons us to consider how our pasts shape us, but do not define us, and how we possess the power to rewrite our destinies starting today.

Key Takeaways

• Resilience as a Driving Force: Marissa underscores the potency of resilience in rising above adversities and transforming obstacles into stepping stones for success.
• The Power of Choice: A central theme is Marissa's belief in choosing victory over victimhood, as instilled by her mother during times of hardship.
• Redefining Richness: Learn how Marissa redefines 'rich' beyond monetary wealth, encompassing emotional, relational, spiritual, physical, and financial richness.
• The Role of Forgiveness and Boundaries: Essential tools in her journey, Marissa shares how forgiveness and boundaries shaped her path to personal and professional fulfillment.
• The Importance of Vision: Despite losing her eyesight to Stargardt disease, Marissa illustrates the profound difference between sight and vision, advocating for a life led by purpose, not limitations.

Notable Quotes

1. "Get up, you've got to get up right now." - Marissa Nehlsen recalling a pivotal moment in her childhood that taught her resilience.
2. "You can choose to be a victim, or you can choose to be victorious. What will you choose?" - Marissa's mother's powerful words that shaped her outlook.
3. "Remove from me what is no longer for me." - Marissa's guiding prayer that illustrates her understanding of growth and necessary change.
4. "People don't follow you because of your eyesight. They

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming UnDone® is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

About the Guest

Nadalie Walsh is a seasoned former NCAA Division 1 gymnastics coach known for her servant leadership style and transformative impact on athletes and teams. With a history of coaching at various universities like the University of Wisconsin Oshkosh, Ball State, Utah State, and the University of Illinois, Nadalie's coaching career is distinguished by dedication, resilience, and a commitment to mental wellness. As a coach, she has won a national championship, had multiple All-Americans and Big Ten event champions, and been honored as the Region 3 co-head coach of the year in 2022. Nadalie is now the owner and CEO of Timber Ridge Ventures and Events and BeREADY, focusing on coaching, mentoring, and the development of young athletes.

Episode Summary

In this enriching episode of Becoming UnDone, host Toby Brooks invites Nadalie Walsh, a distinguished NCAA Division 1 gymnastics coach turned entrepreneur, to share her inspiring journey of transformation, resilience, and leadership. From her early beginnings coaching due to unforeseen circumstances to leading programs at top universities, Nadalie's story is a testament to embracing change and leveraging past challenges as stepping stones to new paths. Her insights into how personal faith, servant leadership, and unyielding dedication have shaped her professional life create a compelling narrative.

The transition from a highly successful coaching career to entrepreneurship has opened new avenues for Nadalie Walsh, enabling her to pursue a calling closely aligned with her values and vision. By embedding mental wellness and identity-building at the core of her current work, Nadalie is filled with enthusiasm for the positive impact she can continue to have on individuals and organizations. This episode resonates with themes of reinvention, the importance of a growth mindset, and the vital role of mentorship in cultivating future leaders—all essential for navigating life's unexpected turns.

Key Takeaways

• Servant Leadership: Nadalie emphasizes the importance of supporting and empowering others as a cornerstone for building trust and effective teams.
• Faith in Transition: Leaving a long-term role was challenging, but Nadalie’s faith provided a framework to embrace new opportunities with optimism.
• Championing Mental Wellness: Her commitment to mental well-being and preparedness in sports is pivotal, influencing her current business endeavors.
• Rejecting Bitterness: Nadalie highlights avoiding bitterness through reflection and reshaping experiences into positive growth for oneself and others.
• Continual Learning and Growth: Nadalie's career and personal journey exemplify dedication to lifelong learning, as seen in her current business pursuits aligning with her leadership.

Notable Quotes

• "I wanted to make her better. So I got out of the wheelchair and I crawled and I helped choreograph on my knees."
• "The ceiling that I was put under, it was a slow, like, kind of death to my spirit in a lot of ways."
• "What the enemy means for harm, that God takes and turns around for good."
• "As a leader, you have the most authorit

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming UnDone® is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

About the Guest

Morgan Detrixhe is an accomplished athletic trainer with a journey marked by resilience and personal growth. Originating from Lubbock, Texas, Morgan was heavily involved in competitive soccer, which influenced her career path into sports medicine. She has worked as an athletic trainer at FC Dallas and currently holds a position at Children's Health Andrews Institute for Orthopedics and Sports Medicine in the Dallas area. Morgan is celebrated for reaching three years of sobriety and actively shares her recovery journey to inspire and offer support to others.

Episode Summary

In this compelling episode of Becoming UnDone, host Toby Brooks engages with Morgan Detrixhe, exploring her profound journey from a promising athletic career, through personal and professional challenges, to her inspiring recovery from addiction. Morgan candidly discusses the pressures faced as a competitive adolescent athlete, the toll that these ambitions sometimes take, and how her career in sports medicine unfolded. Her narrative offers invaluable insights into how one's identity, deeply interwoven with athletic performance, can impact mental health and lead to significant life changes.

Delving deeper, Morgan shares how her experiences in professional settings such as FC Dallas influenced her understanding of work-life balance and addiction. She touches on her realization that recovery called for vulnerability, community support, and a newfound spiritual connection. Her testament to overcoming adversity and reshaping her life's purpose presents a narrative filled with courage, clarity, and redemption. This episode is a must-listen for those interested in how personal resilience can lead to newfound directions, especially in high-pressure professions like sports medicine.

Key Takeaways

• Societal Perceptions of Addiction: The conversation underscores the importance of understanding addiction as a chronic brain disease rather than a moral failing, emphasizing the need for a supportive approach within professional circles.
• Navigating Identity and Pressure: Morgan's struggle with finding an identity beyond sports highlights the psychological challenges that athletes face when transitioning out of competitive environments.
• The Role of Community in Recovery: The episode emphasizes the critical role that community plays in recovery, highlighting the power of human connection and shared experiences in fostering healing.
• Spiritual Growth and Recovery: Morgan attributes a significant part of her successful recovery to finding a spiritual connection, illustrating the importance of faith in personal transformation.
• Redefining Success and Purpose: Through Morgan’s journey, the episode reflects on how life’s unexpected challenges can lead to a deeper, more fulfilling understanding of success and purpose.

Notable Quotes

1. "I really hit this place where I couldn't imagine my life with alcohol anymore, but I couldn't imagine not living with it."
2. "I like to say that I recover out loud so that other people know the way out."
3. "Let us love you until you can love yourself."
4. "This has been

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming UnDone® is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

About the Guest

Dr. Josh Beaumont is a seasoned athletic trainer and sports scientist with a vast experience in professional sports, particularly in soccer. Over his career, Josh has transitioned from being a competitive soccer player and athletic trainer in Major League Soccer (MLS) to working as a sports scientist specializing in performance analytics. Dr. Beaumont holds a Ph.D. in a related field and has a strong interest in recovery science and data-driven performance enhancement, working at Proactive Sports Performance.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Becoming UnDone, host Toby Brooks engages in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Josh Beaumont, a professional who has successfully pivoted from athletic training in Major League Soccer to a fulfilling career in sports science. Josh shares candid insights into his personal and professional journey, highlighting the challenges of identity loss after leaving his dream job in pro sports and how he found a new path in data-driven athletic performance.

Beaumont delves into the intrinsic connection between athletic training and sports science, emphasizing the critical importance of recovery and recognizing actionable patterns rather than relying solely on data. The discussion touches on Josh's ability to adapt amidst transitions, the invaluable role of gut instinct alongside scientific metrics, and the evolving landscape of both athletic training and sports science, particularly with the integration of AI and advanced performance analytics. His journey offers a compelling narrative for those at the crossroads of their careers, illustrating the power of resilience and reinvention.

Key Takeaways

• Transitioning out of professional sports allowed Josh to realign his identity and rediscover his passion through sports science.
• Recovery is paramount in achieving peak athletic performance, and data should be used to guide, not decide, actions.
• The dynamics of athletic training have evolved, with current trends emphasizing the integration of digital analytics tools and performance science.
• Staying strategic and prepared when contemplating a career move can help minimize the risks associated with leaving a dream job.
• Understanding and adapting to the intersection of AI within sports science represents the next frontier in the industry.

Notable Quotes

1. "Whatever is good for health is good for performance." – Dr. Josh Beaumont
2. "Recovery has always been massive. Sometimes the most powerful performance metric isn't in your spreadsheets; it's in your gut." – Dr. Josh Beaumont
3. "It's easy to sit and complain, but you have to look within yourself and ask if you're doing what you need to do." – Dr. Josh Beaumont
4. "Data should guide, not decide." – Dr. Josh Beaumont
5. "Being strategic in purpose means not moving before we develop a plan and then not quitting until we execute on the plan." – Toby Brooks

Resources

• Josh Beaumont on LinkedIn: Josh Beaumont
• Proactive Sports Performance: Proactive Sports Performance
• Contact

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming UnDone® is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

About the Guest

Ilana Golan is a groundbreaking entrepreneur, tech executive, and former Israeli Air Force commander. Known for being the first woman to command an F16 training squad, Ilana's career trajectory has been far from conventional. She has made her mark in Silicon Valley, succeeded in raising significant venture capital, and established herself as a respected voice on resilience and adaptive change. Currently, she is the CEO of Leap Academy, which offers strategic guidance to individuals seeking transformative career and life transitions. Ilana's journey is a testament to grit, resilience, and the power of reinvention.

Episode Summary

Prepare for an inspiring episode of Becoming UnDone with Toby Brooks as he engages with Ilana Golan, a formidable force in entrepreneurship and personal transformation. This week's conversation delves deeply into the trials and triumphs that have shaped Ilana's bold journey—from her early years training fighter pilots in the Israeli Air Force to her innovative ventures in Silicon Valley. Through heartfelt anecdotes and candid reflections, Ilana shares how setbacks have fueled her drive and commitment to aid others on their paths of reinvention.

Throughout the episode, Toby and Ilana explore pivotal moments of crisis and the clarity they can offer. The conversation touches on the concepts of resilience when facing unforeseen professional upheavals, and how Ilana has used her experiences to forge a new path with Leap Academy. This venture was born out of her tumultuous startup journey, teaching career strategy and empowering others to take charge of their professional trajectories. Offering insights into entrepreneurship, personal growth, and future directions, this episode is a rich tapestry of motivational themes interwoven with practical advice.

Key Takeaways

• Resilience in Setbacks: Ilana Golan discusses how being ousted from her startup became a catalyst for future success and personal reinvention.
• Power of Reflection: The significance of self-awareness and strategic planning in career transitions is highlighted as Ilana reflects on her journey.
• Strategic Career Leaps: A portfolio career approach and multiple income streams are essential strategies for living with purpose and adaptability.
• Phases of Life and Success: Ilana emphasizes understanding one's phase of life to redefine personal metrics of success.
• Community and Support: Creating a network of like-minded individuals who are also high achievers and driven can provide invaluable support and opportunities.

Notable Quotes

• "Sometimes wrong turns are the very ones that lead to the right place." – Ilana Golan
• "I needed to feel that regret. That regret was something I never want to feel ever again." – Ilana Golan
• "Every twist, every setback, every leap, she's redefined what it means to be resilient." – Toby Brooks
• "It's not easy, but it's simple. Execution can be difficult." – Ilana Golan
• "You want to be leap ready, even if you're staying there." – Ilana Golan

Resources

• Leap Academy: le

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming UnDone® is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

About the Guest

Quang X. Pham is a Vietnamese-American entrepreneur and former United States Marine Corps aviator. Initially arriving in the United States as a 10-year-old refugee fleeing a collapsing Saigon, Pham eventually became a decorated Marine Corps aviator. He is now the CEO of Cadrenal Therapeutics, a leading biotech company focused on innovative therapies. In addition to his professional endeavors, Quang Pham is a published author, capturing his incredible journey and insights in various books. His latest work, "Underdog Nation," conveys the themes of resilience and the power of seizing opportunities in America.

Episode Summary

In this enlightening episode of "Becoming Undone," host Toby Brooks converses with Quang X. Pham, a former refugee who rose through extraordinary circumstances to serve as a US Marine Corps aviator and biotech CEO. The discussion delves into Pham's dynamic journey—from navigating life as a Vietnamese refugee in Arkansas to achieving remarkable success in the Marine Corps and the biotech sector. Highlighting themes of grit, gratitude, and transformation, Pham shares how his early life challenges molded his path and helped him rise above expectations. 

Throughout the episode, Pham and Brooks examine the nuances of overcoming fear, integrating relentless action, and breaking through barriers that seem insurmountable. Pham emphasizes the significance of the ER principle—effort and result—advocating for a success mindset anchored in persistent action rather than passive aspiration. From recounting his love for baseball as a gateway to American culture to his ambitious professional ventures, Pham offers a paradigmatic illustration of the power of resilience. This episode is fully packed with discussions that encourage redefining setbacks into stepping stones and seeking out mentors across varied backgrounds.

Key Takeaways

• From Refugee to Resilience: Quang X. Pham illustrates a profound transformation from navigating life as a refugee to taking decisive steps that shaped his successful career in aviation and biotechnology.
• Overcoming Fear with Action: Pham emphasizes not letting fear stifle potential by focusing on action-oriented practices to achieve set goals.
• Effort and Results Principle: A core theme of the episode, the principle of aligning effort with expected results is explored as a pathway to personal and professional success.
• Global Sports as a Connector: The role that sports played in Pham's adjustment to American culture underscores the value of community and shared experiences.
• Mentorship Across Boundaries: Pham advocates for learning from diverse mentors—referred to as "admirables"—to foster personal growth irrespective of racial or cultural similarities.

Notable Quotes

• "I've never been a dreamer or a visionary. I was all about the mindset, which means taking action."
• "This is the number one country for underdogs. If you don't have the name, culture, or education, you could become whoever you want to become."
• "Learn English, learn how to speak, how to present, how to convince people. It's the greatest tool to be communicated."

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming UnDone® is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

Episode Summary

In this episode of the Professor's Playbook/Becoming UnDone, Toby Brooks shares his transformative journey from discontentment and frustration to fulfillment and gratitude. Relaying his personal experiences of being passed over for a desired job in Lubbock, Toby opens up about the emotional turmoil and ultimately finding peace in unexpected changes. As time progressed, an opportunity at Baylor University emerged, aligning perfectly with his professional aspirations and family needs. This narrative artfully illustrates the podcast's theme: waiting for "something more" to come, as Toby strategically aligned his career goals with his core values.

Listeners will gain insight into Toby's perseverance and the role truthfulness played throughout his journey. Through self-reflection and deliberate action, Toby demonstrates the importance of living an 'unconcealed' life—known as 'alethea' in Greek—and how this virtue underpins effective leadership, integrity in data management, and authentic relationships. The discussion further delves into how truthfulness bridges gaps between spoken ideals and practiced realities, ensuring that personal and professional lives are deeply rooted in accuracy and integrity.

Key Takeaways

• Embrace Change: Sometimes, life's unforeseen circumstances lead to greater opportunities, as seen in Toby's journey from Lubbock to Baylor.
• Truthfulness as a Virtue: Living an unconcealed life is vital, aligning words, actions, and intentions with reality.
• Balance in Leadership: Authenticity, feedback with care, and courageous advocacy define effective leadership and team culture.
• Integrity in Data Practices: Accurate data collection and reporting build trust and inform sound decision-making in healthcare professions.
• Personal Growth: Waiting periods often serve as preparation stages for more significant outcomes, emphasizing patience and faith.

Notable Quotes

• "I have every confidence that this was the something more that was coming, that all the while I was too impatient to wait for."
• "Truthfulness isn't about what we say. It's about who we are."
• "Sometimes we just need to wait. If I'd had my way, I would have rushed to any of a hundred jobs just to make my ego feel better."
• "In the Greek, the word for truthfulness is alethea, which literally means unconcealed—Not just being honest, but living unhidden."
• "Truthfulness in our systems equals trustworthiness in our leadership."

Resources

• Connect with Toby Brooks on Linktree
• Explore more episodes of Professor's Playbook and Becoming Undone on major podcast platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and iHeartRadio.

Tune in to this enlightening episode of the Professor's Playbook to understand the power of truthfulness and patience in personal and professional spheres. Discover more inspiring content and stay ahead in your journey of continuous learning and growth.

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming UnDone® is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.