Catalyst: A Podcast of Thought

In this third and final episode of our series on performance and renewal, we turn from diagnosis to design. We move from understanding why we get stuck to learning how to move again.

Drawing again on Adam Alter’s research in “Anatomy of a Breakthrough,” we explore the precise strategies that turn stagnation into forward momentum. Through narrative case studies, we see that progress isn’t born of inspiration, but of intelligent design. 

Breakthroughs don’t arrive as lightning bolts. They’re built friction by friction, choice by choice.

Tune in for practical frameworks and reflective questions that help you design movement, meaning, and renewal one small step at a time.

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You’re listening to Catalyst: A Podcast of Thought, with Greg Schnagl.

Burnout isn’t a weakness. 
It’s the body’s way of demanding realignment.

In this episode, we examine Adam Alter's research in his book, "Anatomy of a Breakthrough," which reframes burnout as a forced breakthrough—a system-level reset between your environment and your evolving identity.
 
Drawing from organizational psychology, neuroscience, and real-world case studies, we explore the six-minute match that causes burnout, the friction gap that keeps us stuck, and the science of job crafting as a blueprint for sustainable redesign.

This isn’t about recovery; it’s about reinvention.

Burnout doesn't end your capacity—it clarifies it.

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You’re listening to Catalyst: A Podcast of Thought, with Greg Schnagl.

In this episode, we explore the realm of being stuck and examine the three main types. The ideas are primarily inspired by the insightful work of author and NYU Stern School of Business marketing professor Adam Alter: “Anatomy of a Breakthrough.” You might think that if you're stuck—whether professionally, in relationships, or in a personal project—it's a sign of a character flaw or a lack of motivation. You might believe in the Myth of Unbroken Progress—the false idea that successful people move effortlessly from ambition to achievement. We will analyze the practical structure of inertia, giving you the tools to identify your problem accurately. If you’re ready to stop feeling stuck and start creating a clear plan for taking action, stay with me.

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You’re listening to Catalyst: A Podcast of Thought, with Greg Schnagl.

In this episode, we explore the profound question, “How Will You Measure Your Life?”
Drawing on the frameworks of late strategist Clayton M. Christensen, this episode looks beyond traditional business metrics and into personal fulfillment and the art of creating an enduring meaningful life.

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You’re listening to Catalyst: A Podcast of Thought, with Greg Schnagl.

in this episode, I take a deep dive into the word that often gets a bad rap. The word “like”. I’ll explore the word’s linguistic journey, examine the perspective of Noah Webster (the dictionary guy), and share the work of Anne Curzan, author and linguist.

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You’re listening to Catalyst: A Podcast of Thought, with Greg Schnagl.

In this episode of Catalyst,
I dive into the philosophical and practical aspects of personal growth. I explore the idea of “unbecoming” by synthesizing the work of Dr. Peter Attia and author Olga Khazan, offering a powerful, two-part strategy for self-reinvention. In this episode you will learn how to combine an internal shift in perspective with deliberate, outward behavior to become the person you were always meant to be.

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You’re listening to Catalyst: A Podcast of Thought, with Greg Schnagl.

In this episode, we’re exploring the transformative power of shifting from a mindset of doing to a practice of being. Drawing on insights from Dr. Peter Attia, we discussed how mindfulness and conscious, value driven actions can help us overcome suffering rooted in our own thoughts. We’ll explore the idea that true fulfillment isn’t about what we accomplish, but about shedding what we are not, to reveal who we are meant to be.

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You’re listening to Catalyst: A Podcast of Thought, with Greg Schnagl.

In this episode, I explore a powerful paradox touted from the ages of Aesop to Attia: true longevity isn’t about explosive effort, but the slow and steady work of building a foundation showing us how going slower can make us stronger.

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You’re listening to Catalyst: A Podcast of Thought, with Greg Schnagl.