GO with Joe

✅Mike Vardy is an author, speaker, and productivity and time management strategist (or 'productivityist') based out of Victoria, BC, Canada. He is the author of "The Front Nine: How to Start the Year You Want Anytime You Want," and has also self-published several eBooks, most recently "The Productivityist Playbook." Mike has been performing for 12 years -- and has given talks on productivity, time, and task management at TEDxVictoria, Social Media Camp, New Media Expo, and South by Southwest. He has also facilitated workshops related to tasks, time, projects, and goal management. Mike has also produced and hosted several podcasts over the years, and currently hosts The Productivityist Podcast, a podcast that features insights and conversations surrounding productivity and workflow.

→IN THIS EPISODE… In this episode, Joe discusses with Mike Vardy the concept of productivity. Mike gives tips, tools, tactics, and tricks that are designed to help you take your time management, goals, and to-do lists to a new level of effectiveness. Whether you are looking to maximize your ROI at work or at home, you will get many actionables to start these changes today.

🔍 Breakdown with Mike Vardy:

Chapter 1 (0:00​) Joe Introduces Mike Vardy

Mike Vardy is a productivity specialist and is going to share tips and ideas during the interview.

Chapter 2 (1:41) What is the model of productivity

We are not designed to multi-task, and we forget that machines are designed to handle multiple processes, but humans are not. 

Chapter 3 (​7:46) Finding balance between internal communication

Mike discusses the purpose of slack and how to organize your internal communication with external communication.

Chapter 4 (14:07) Tips for project management tools

 Most of the tools are connected to your email, so when you send an email it will automatically add to your project.

Chapter 5 (16:36) People playing defense

If you are checking email to be told what to do, then you don’t have the right plan in place. You run the risk of email telling you what to do. The best practice is to plan your day the night before.

Chapter 6 (23:16) How to get back on track

Mike compares the analogy with fighting fires all day, which implies a haphazard manner, with actual firemen who are very controlled with how they put out fires. 

Chapter 7 (36:17) Setting the right schedule

Mike works out at night, Joe works out in the morning. Mike explains how to identify when you are the most productive.

Chapter 8 (​41:31) Procrastination and how to avoid it

Focus on the elements of your project and make measured steps to work on the large project in small doses.

Chapter 9 (45:45) Theme your days

If you set a tone for each day it helps to organize and set perimeters around your day so you don’t get sidetracked.

Chapter 10 (52:05) Getting started 

The first question asked is, are you a calendar person or a to-do list person.  There are 5 modes from there Mike goes into that help your productivity goals.

Chapter 11 (58:18) Time blocking and horizontal theming

Two types of time organization are time blocking and horizontal theming. Mike explains the differences between the two, and his preference for horizontal theming for habitual practice.

Chapter 12 (1:15:10) Tips on habit tracking app

Mike reviews some idea on Evernote and other various apps, including Hindsight, as recommended apps that help with habit tracking

Chapter 13 (1:22:33) The power of streaks

Nothing is more encouraging than getting your new habit started. Start your new habit and building upon it to keep the momentum going.

Chapter 14 (1:25:57) What’s one thing to start tomorrow

Put verbs in front of every task you write down. Every task is an action item.

Chapter 15 (1:30:09) Some book recommendations

Mike has some great book recommendations, which are listed below.

Chapter 16 (1:32:33) Find out more about Mike

You can connect with Mike through any of his social media linked below, or through his website.

Chapter 17 (1:34:01) In closing

Joe closes out the episode and reminds the audience, you, me, we are not almost there.

Material Referenced in this interview:

→A World Without Email by Cal Newport

→Creative Quest by Quest Love

→The Playbook by Mike Vardy

→30 Days of Excellence with Jesse Itzler

→https://www.sethgodin.com/ 

→The 5 Categories of Modes by Mike Vardy

→Obsidian Note tracking app

→How to live on 24hours a day by Arnold Bennet

→Indestractable by Nir Eyal

→The gift of time by Mike Vardy

→The power of When by Michael Breus

→The Productivityist Podcast with Mike Vardy

📞 Connect with Mike

→https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikevardy/

→https://www.facebook.com/themikevardy

→https://www.instagram.com/productivityist/

→https://www.youtube.com/user/Productivityist

👊 To learn more about Not Almost There by visiting this link 

→ Not Almost There http://notalmostthere.com/​

Connect with Joe on social here:

→Instagram https://www.instagram.com/joe_chura/​

→Facebook https://www.facebook.com/notalmostthere/​

→Twitter http://twitter.com/joechura

Alison Canavan is a UCLA-trained Mindfulness Facilitator from The Semel Institute of Neuroscience and Human Behaviour. She runs a successful private practice as a Health and Wellness coach and delivers motivational talks on health and wellbeing, all over the world, specializing in behavior change, mental health, addiction, and improving your mindset. Alison was a successful international model for nearly two decades and in recent years has devoted her time to her greatest passion: the achievement of true health and wellbeing for herself and others. Alison is passionate about human potential and helping people to reach theirs; she attained a graduate distinction in Nutrition and Health Coaching from Irish Institute of Nutrition and Health, Advanced Diploma in Diet and Nutrition therapeutics, Raw Foods Mastery level 3 from The Life Change Health Institute. In her work, she shares tools and training that help people connect, go within, and create lasting change through intuition and everyday small behavioral changes. 

→IN THIS EPISODE… Joe and Alison talk about her journey to sobriety. As Ireland’s first Super Model Alison found herself being engulfed in a toxic lifestyle. Her turning point was motherhood, and her son James brought her the motivation to start seeking help and health. Alison shares great tips and exercises to become a more mindful person to live a life of gratitude.

🔍 Breakdown with Alison Canavan:

Chapter 1 (0:00​) Introducing Alison Canavan

Joe introduces Alison, and sets up the episode.

Chapter 2 (3:15​) Defining Moment

Alison credits the birth of her son as the catalyst for her getting sober and focusing on her health.

Chapter 3 (13:26) From model to mindfulness expert

 Alison shares her journey as Ireland’s first supermodel, and how she started down a road of self-destructive behavior with alcohol. She explains how the birth of her son helped shift her focus to mindfulness and living a holistic lifestyle.

Chapter 4 (17:08) More alcohol equals less productivity

Alcohol or any harmful substance can typically cause negative side effects that last 3 times longer than the moment you do them.

Chapter 5 (​24:36) Power of Streaks

Starting a new goal can be difficult, especially when it is breaking a bad habit, so a great tip is to focus on creating a streak. You will notice a shift after you are successful 5 or more days in a row.

Chapter 6 (25​:28) How to find a good mentor

Throughout Alison’s journey, she credits a lot of her good habits and the ability to overcome her addiction to alcohol through teachers she has met along the way. 

Chapter 7 (33:35) Creating consistency and routine

A great analogy for an absence of consistency; weeds (bad habits) invading your garden(your life/goals). Joe shares this and some great tips in establishing a routine.

Chapter 8 (39:30) Mediation in schools

Why aren’t we teaching our kids mental exercises as well as physical exercise? This is a topic Joe discussed with Nelson Delis in a previous episode as well.

Chapter 9 (44:55) Power tip about consistency

Joe shares a power tip he learned from a book, Tiny Habits. It is never too late to make changes in your life.

Chapter 10 (52:08) Enjoy the process and trust the journey

Joe and Alison discuss how to get yourself to a place of happiness and enjoy the moment of time you are currently in.

Chapter 11 (1:05:54) Where hearts unite

Right now, Alison is working with her brother to develop holistic supplements. She is also a life coach and can help with mindfulness and meditation. 

Chapter 12 (1:11:15) Speed round questions

Learn about Alison’s favorite books to reread, and her non-important thing to do.

Chapter 13 (1:16:09) In Closing

Joe wraps up the episode and encourages you to remember: you, me, we are not almost there.

Material Referenced in this interview:

→Minding Mum by Alison Canavan

→Liver Medic Products

→Virgin River (Netflix Series)

→Tiny Habits by BJ Fogg, PhD

📞 Connect with Alison

→https://www.whereheartsunite.com/

→https://linktr.ee/alisoncanavanwellness

👊 To learn more about Not Almost There by visiting this link 

→ Not Almost There http://notalmostthere.com/​

Connect with Joe on social here:

→Instagram https://www.instagram.com/joe_chura/​

→Facebook https://www.facebook.com/notalmostthere/​

→Twitter http://twitter.com/joechura

🎤IN-Q is an award-winning poet, multi-platinum songwriter, and the best-selling author of Inquire Within. His groundbreaking achievements include being named to Oprah’s SuperSoul 100 list of the world’s most influential thought leaders and being featured on A&E, ESPN, and HBO’s Def Poetry Jam. He has written with renowned artists including Aloe Blacc, Miley Cyrus, Mike Posner, ZHU, and Foster the People. Nike, Instagram, Spotify, Google, Zappos, Lululemon, Live Nation, Shazam, The Grammy Foundation, and many more have brought IN-Q in to motivate their teams through his keynote performances and transformational storytelling workshops. Ultimately IN-Q writes to entertain, inspire, and challenge his audiences to look deeper into the human experience and ask questions about themselves, their environment, and the world at large.

→IN THIS EPISODE… Joe and In-Q discuss his monumental career; how he got started in the poetry and rapping world and he was able to gain understanding and inspiration from the community around him. He never allowed set back and adversity to hold him back, instead, it fueled his ability to channel his emotions through his poetry to make him the writing powerhouse he is today. 

🔍 Breakdown with In-Q:

Chapter 1 (0:00​) Introducing In-Q

Joe sets up the episode and introduces Q.

Chapter 2 (2:35) Performing “Say Yes”

Q beautifully performs a poem from his best selling book entitled, “Say Yes”

Chapter 3 (6:23​) Background of writing

The struggle was what Q knew for the beginning of his career. Once he finally started to make a little money, he used it to travel and saying “yes” to life.

Chapter 4 (8:03) Looking back

Always follow your enthusiasm. Q followed his passion for freestyle hip-hop and rap and was his first form of meditation.

Chapter 5 11:48) Hip Hop inspiration

Nas and his album “Illmatic” and realized he was as close to God as he could get. His ultimate idol.

Chapter 6 (14:45) Father connection

If Q’s father was in the picture he feels things would be different, not sure for better or worse, but he feels grateful for his life journey, and wouldn’t change anything.

Chapter 7 (20:50) Poem closest to you

The piece that Q wrote about his father is closest to his core, but he favorite poem is his next one, he explains why.

Chapter 8 (​22:18) How to slow down and enjoy

On a deeper level, during the covid pandemic, Q realized who you are is not what you do. They can be intertwined but they are also separate.

Chapter 9 (27​:07) Life mentors and inspiration

Community. Q talks about earlier in the episode how his come up was through his hip hop community and that is who has inspired him. He also explains the hard work it takes to succeed.

Chapter 10 (33:20) The power of REFUEL

Joe and Q reflect on how messaging goes out in the world and how it can have a ripple effect.

Chapter 11 (38:32) Covid and our new reality

Q’s engagement happened during COVID, and he feels strongly to change the narrative. Nature has given us a time out to look back and reflect and come out better.

Chapter 12 (46:28) Story-telling workshops

Opportunity to give the gift that has been given to Q. Whether the workshop is virtual or live, Q opens up a community he felt like he was able to grow from early on in his career.

Chapter 13 (50:08) In-Q’s name origin story

When Q was fifteen a friend told him his name should be Inquiry because he also was asking questions in his wrap.

Chapter 14 (53:49) Get lost in something

We live in an age with the internet where mentors are just a click away. Make sure you take advantage of that.

Chapter 15 (56:47) Final poem, “Perspective”

In closing, In-Q performs “perspective”

Chapter 16 (58:29) In Closing

Joe wraps up this incredible episode

Material Referenced in this interview:

→IN-Q – Live at the Ace Theatre Amazon Prime Video

→https://in-q.com/inquirewithin/

→https://in-q.com/workshops/

📞 Connect with In-Q

→https://in-q.com/

→https://www.instagram.com/inqlife/

→https://www.facebook.com/INQlife/

→Youtube channel

👊 To learn more about Not Almost There by visiting this link 

→ Not Almost There http://notalmostthere.com/​

Connect with Joe on social here:

→Instagram https://www.instagram.com/joe_chura/​

→Facebook https://www.facebook.com/notalmostthere/​

→Twitter http://twitter.com/joechura

🤼‍♂️John Brooks is a Certified Sports Nutritionist with the International Society of Sports Nutrition (CISSN) and Precision Nutrition (level 1) certified and has a B.S. in Biology from DePaul University and an M.S. in Nutrition & Wellness from Benedictine University. He has over 15 years of experience in the health and fitness industry. Much of that time was spent in the supplement industry, and as a result, John has a vast knowledge about supplements and the evidence for and against using various ones. John is the founder of Nutrition 361, which is based in suburban Chicago and works with people all over the world. When John is not coaching clients, he trains and competes in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and holds the rank of black belt. 

→IN THIS EPISODE… Joe discusses with John myths about fitness and working out once you are in your 40s. John explains best practices to get in shape and how to start changing your unhealthy habits today. Get a pad and pen ready because there are valuable tips you won’t want to miss.

🔍 Breakdown with John Brooks:

Chapter 1 (0:00​) Introducing John Brooks

Joe introduces John, and he shares his credentials.

Chapter 2 (0:57) Demystify getting ripped in your 40’s

Many people feel like you can’t get in shape the older you get. John explains the variables, and age is not a significant factor.

Chapter 3 (3:15​) Percentage of diet vs fitness

John takes an 80/20 approach to diet and fitness. He advises 80% nutrition-based energy and 20% energy from physical activity.

Chapter 4 (5:58) Calculating your metabolic rate

Once you establish your metabolic rate you can establish a fitness plan to capitalize on the way your body burns calories.

Chapter 5 (8:25) Focus on the week

Don’t focus on your daily calorie goal, focus on your weekly calorie deficit goal wholistically. It will be less discouraging if you have a high-calorie day, but a deficit the rest of the week.

Chapter 6 (13:26) Knowing your real weight

Don’t focus on weighing yourself every week, because that can be discouraging. John shares the variable of having a high-calorie weekend or other factors that can account for fluctuating weight. John encourages taking photos to see the impact on your body.

Chapter 7 (15:00) Reducing water intake

Joe shared that he was drinking a gallon of water a day. John explains the reason that some people can intake too much water, and cutting your water and salt intake in half is often beneficial.

Chapter 8 (​16:42) Focus on the macros

Macro is an abbreviation of the word 'macronutrient' and simply refers to the three main nutrient groups: fats, carbohydrates, protein. John explains how to figure out your macros which include, Work out your base metabolic rate, decide your activity level, and choose your macro split.

Chapter 9 (21​:45) Track your calories

John encourages finding how many calories you are taking in on a given day to make sure you aren’t going over your calorie deficit. Joe shares how calorie tracking really helped with his intermittent snacking.

Chapter 10 (26:08) Losing weight

The best way to lose weight is to focus on a calorie deficit diet, period. John also discusses some of the fad diets and how they are not sustainable.

Chapter 11 (34:25) Protein intake and fasting 

Fasting is an eating schedule. It's important to remember what you eat and how much you eat are more important than the amount of time in between meals.

Chapter 12 (37:30) Reducing your alcohol consumption

Reducing the amount of alcohol you drink is a huge factor in getting ripped in your 40’s. You don’t have to completely deprive yourself, but if you can limit your drinking you will see a significant impact.

Chapter 13 (45:40) Recommended supplements

John is a minimalist when it comes to supplements, but he definitely recommends, protein powder, vitamin D, collagen, and a few others. Make sure to consult your physician before deciding which supplements to take.

Chapter 14 (52:09) Where to start

For someone who is just starting out, a good place to start is resistance training. Also, diet is so important when starting out, and John shares some mindset tips to help overcome starting your mindful food journey.

Chapter 15 (59:01) Put yourself first

People say they don’t have time, but you aren’t making your health a priority. Focus on your “why” behind your workout, and try to develop a good routine. John also explains where to start; Keep It Simple!

Chapter 16 (1:11:09) In Closing

Joe wraps it up with John, and will have John on in a future episode and will dive into the best workout/fitness routines.

Material Referenced in this interview:

→https://www.nutrition361.com/contact/ (to get in touch with John)

→My Fitness Pal (calorie tracking app)

📞 Connect with John

→https://www.nutrition361.com/

👊 To learn more about Not Almost There by visiting this link 

→ Not Almost There http://notalmostthere.com/​

Connect with Joe on social here:

→Instagram https://www.instagram.com/joe_chura/​

→Facebook https://www.facebook.com/notalmostthere/​

→Twitter http://twitter.com/joechura

🚴🏽‍♀️Angel Manuel Davis is an international fitness evangelist and motivational coach.  As a former member of the USA Track and Field Team, Angela was a five-time All-American who held world rankings in the 100-meter dash. Angela was also an Olympic Trials semi-finalist, a member of the World Championship team, and a professional runner for Nike. In 2014, Angela appeared on and was a part of the national arena tour. Born into a sports family, Angela’s father Jerry Manuel played, coached, and managed baseball in the MLB. Drive, determination, and a competitive spirit were instilled in Angela from an early age. Angela has been coaching and training private clients for over 15 years. With her motivational message and passion for fitness, Angela created Los Angeles’ most in-demand group cycle class, training influential cultural forces such as Beyoncé, Jay-Z, David Beckham, and Kerry Washington. Equally a powerhouse as a fitness coach and motivational speaker leading events across the country, Davis was featured on Oprah Winfrey’s Live the Life You Want Tour and Oprah’s 20/20 Vision Tour. Most recently, Angela has taken on the title of AARMY Co-Founder & Chief Motivation Officer. 

→IN THIS EPISODE… Joe discusses with Angela her incredible journey in athletics.  From starting as a track star ranked in the top 25 in the world, to pioneering the workout world by coaching with intention and starting AARMY, a dynamic workout lifestyle. Angela gives great advice on how to make fitness a priority as well as how to make it a priority for your children.

🔍 Breakdown with Angela Manuel Davis:

Chapter 1 (0:00​) Introducing Angela Manuel Davis

Joe introduces Angela.

Chapter 2 (2:16) Motivation through movement

Being born into an athletic family, Angela grew up with the idea that everyone who moves is an athlete.  By pushing those in her class, Angela can pour in the motivation while they are giving all they can.

Chapter 3 (4:32​) Origin story

Angela explains how she started incorporating motivation into her classes. She learned from her father the importance of helping people live their best life and put a demand on their potential.

Chapter 4 (7:36) The gift within

Once Angela left track and field she was teaching cycling and workout classes and started feeling the urge to give words of wisdom and inspiration along with the instruction, and realized she couldn’t suppress it and should suppress it.

Chapter 5 (11:11) Pioneer in the workout space

Today we see Peloton, but before that there was Angela. She was the first to incorporate inspiration and words of praise into exercise. She develops a coaching relationship versus that of instruction only.

Chapter 6 (14:51) Finding gratitude within

Angela credits her mom for the importance of gratitude in her life. She explains how to wake up in gratitude, purpose, and how to choose a mindset.

Chapter 7 (21:34) Daily ritual

Start with why and incorporate that into your day. When you start your day with gratitude and good intentions, it stays with you throughout your day.

Chapter 8 (​27:20) Creation of AARMY

Starting a new business right before a pandemic caused some problems, but also created some opportunities. AARMY is an amazing online workout community that inspires as much as it pushes you physically.

Chapter 9 (33​:32) Community and accountability

Find your community. This piece of advice is important to help you with your goals, whether they are for your mind or body.

Chapter 10 (39:18) Make the time

You have to prioritize your health on the same level as eating and sleeping. You can’t allow yourself the thought of “you don’t have the time.” No one is going to hand good health and fitness to you.

Chapter 11 (42:06) Parental advice 

Make screen time equal to the amount of physical activity. Also, be sure to listen and encourage their own goals so they can have their best sense of self-esteem. 

Chapter 12 (46:37) Speed Round Questions

Angela answers some quick questions from her favorite spot in Chicago to her favorite non-important thing to do. 

Chapter 13 (50:42) In Closing

Joe wraps up this episode and gives you his favorite takeaways.

Material Referenced in this interview:

→Sign Up for AARMY FREE first month!

→AARMY Gear

→Grit by Angela Duckworth

📞 Connect with Angela

→https://www.aarmy.com/

→https://angelamanueldavis.com/

→https://www.facebook.com/shapewithangela/

→https://twitter.com/shapewithangela?s=20

→https://www.instagram.com/angelamanueldavis/

👊 To learn more about Not Almost There by visiting this link 

→ Not Almost There http://notalmostthere.com/​

Connect with Joe on social here:

→Instagram https://www.instagram.com/joe_chura/​

→Facebook https://www.facebook.com/notalmostthere/​

→Twitter http://twitter.com/joechura

Ben Nemtin is a Canadian producer, writer, speaker, and television personality. Ben Nemtin was born in Victoria, British Columbia. After graduating high school, Nemtin was selected as a member of the Under 19 Canadian national rugby team and earned academic and athletic scholarships to attend the University of Victoria. At University, fed up with the monotony of day-to-day life, Nemtin and his friends set out on a two-week road trip with a camera and a borrowed RV to complete a list of "100 things to do before you die." Along their journey, they asked people the question, "What do you want to do before you die?" For each item they accomplished on their list, they helped a complete stranger do something on their own list. Ben and his friend’s journey gathered attention, so the idea was picked up as a television show on MTV, The Buried Life, of which he is the creator, executive producer, and cast member. Nemtin is co-author of the book, What Do You Want To Do Before You Die?, which entered The New York Times Best Seller list. The show is no longer on air but Ben continues to use those ideals as well as the topic of mental health which he shares as one of the most sought-after keynote speakers.

→IN THIS EPISODE… Joe talks with Ben about his journey from the pressure of being a collegiate athlete to discovering a quest for a deeper meaning for life through his MTV show, The Buried Life. Ben discusses goal setting, making bucket lists, and mental health. Ben provides many actionable ways you can get started today living your most fulfilling life, and not a life of longing or living vicariously through others.

🔍 Breakdown with Ben Nemtin:

Chapter 1 (0:00​) Introducing Ben Nemtin

Joe introduces Ben.

Chapter 2 (1:50) From national rugby to The Buried Life

Ben tells Joe about the peaks and the large valley that took him from a top rugby athlete to exploring more of what life has to offer with his friends.

Chapter 3 (6:07​) Surround yourself with friends

Diving deeper, Ben explores how he was able to surround himself with the right people who helped inspire and motivate him.

Chapter 4 (18:03) Brain fitness

Changing the stigma of mental health and being able to talk about it and seek help for it, Ben speaks out about changing the narrative.

Chapter 5 (23:14) What to do after achievement

Creating your list should evolve as you evolve, so ideally there will not be a moment when you are done.  Your list should be a reflection of you and fulfilling continually.

Chapter 6 (26:54) Accountability for your goals

76% of people feel they lived a life for someone else, and not themselves. Ben explains how important it is to have an accountability partner to ensure you are completing the goals you set for yourself.

Chapter 7 (​30:14) 30 over 3

Joe shares a plan he started with his wife. This framework is set so ⅓ is about you, ⅓ is about your family, and ⅓ is about giving back. Joe has this templated framework available for you to download on notalmostthere.com.

Chapter 8 (​32:20) Most significant gift

There have been so many opportunities to provide life-changing gifts for people over the years, and Ben shares his most memorable including giving a girl a bionic hand.

Chapter 9 (42:28) Managing your time

How you can carve out time if you find yourself thinking you don’t have enough time in your day. Ben gives actionable advice on how to do that, and it begins with prioritizing your day.

Chapter 10 (46:18) Speed round questions

Ben answers Joe’s questions about who inspires him, his favorite book, and more.

Chapter 11 (49:37) Wrap-Up

Joe concludes the episodes and provides a tool through the Not Almost There website to help with your own goals/bucket list

Material Referenced in this interview:

→What Do You Want To Do Before You Die? By Ben Nemtin

📞 Connect with Ben

→https://www.bennemtin.com/

→https://www.bennemtin.com/set-a-goal/

→https://www.facebook.com/bennemtin/

→https://twitter.com/bennemtin

→https://www.instagram.com/bennemtin/

👊 To learn more about Not Almost There by visiting this link 

→ Not Almost There http://notalmostthere.com/​

Connect with Joe on social here:

→Instagram https://www.instagram.com/joe_chura/​

→Facebook https://www.facebook.com/notalmostthere/​

→Twitter http://twitter.com/joechura

Maysoon Zayid is an actress, comedian, writer, and disability advocate. She is the co-founder/co-executive producer of the New York Arab American Comedy Festival, The Muslim Funny Fest, and has one of the most viewed TedTalks, with over 11 million views. As a professional comedian, Maysoon has performed in top New York clubs and has toured extensively in the US and abroad. She was a headliner on the Arabs Gone Wild Comedy Tour, and The Muslims Are Coming Tour. Maysoon appeared alongside Adam Sandler in You Don’t Mess with the Zohan and has written for VICE. She walked in New York Fashion Week, tap-danced on Broadway, written a best-selling memoir called ‘Find Another Dream,’ and is proud to be an ambassador for the Cerebral Palsy Foundation.

→IN THIS EPISODE… Joe talks with Maysoon about her incredible entertainment career. Born with cerebral palsy, her journey to the stage has been a unique one. She has achieved every goal she has set for herself, including being a critically acclaimed stand-up comedian, TED Talk superstar, a reoccurring role on General Hospital, a proud cat mom, and an advocate for people with disabilities. And yet, with all she has achieved, she is still setting goals and has so much she has yet to accomplish.

🔍 Breakdown with Maysoon Zayid:

Chapter 1 (0:00​) Introducing Maysoon Zayid

Joe introduces Maysoon.

Chapter 2 (2:32) Find another dream

Maysoon took some advice to find another dream in a completely different direction.  Maysoon never let anything stand in her way.

Chapter 3 (5:04​) Inspirational for all the right reasons

Don’t be inspired by Maysoon because she is disabled, be inspired because she is a Stand-Up Comedian who sells out theaters, a best-selling author, and an actress on General Hospital.

Chapter 4 (6:26) Life goals

Maysoon was a born performer. She always knew she wanted to be on TV or Broadway, and she never let her disability define her or block any of her dreams.

Chapter 5 (8:21) Road to comedy

It was in stand-up comedy that Maysoon found her home. After graduating from Arizona State, she started auditioning for acting roles and didn’t get any callbacks.  Where she ended up finding people that she identified with was in Stand-Up Comedy.

Chapter 6 (10:56) Current projects

Maysoon shares all of her current projects, ranging from virtual comedy shows to teaching a class at an Ivy League College.

Chapter 7 (​13:08) The American Dream

Something people may not consider is the struggles of immigrants from refugee camps.  Maysoon has the perspective of knowing a life that does not afford necessary privileges while living in Sudan.

Chapter 8 (​18:54) Speed Round of Questions

Joe asks Maysoon some rapid-fire questions from favorite actors to her thoughts on her TEDx Talk, which has over 11 million views.

Chapter 9 (23:44) Only you can define you

The best advice Maysoon has for you is to be who you want to be and not to let anyone else tell you who you should be.

Chapter 10 (25:22) Wrap-Up

Final thoughts from Joe.

Material Referenced in this interview:

→Find Another Dream! By Maysoon Zayid 

→I got 99 problems (TEDx video)

→The Teddy Bear Habit by James Collier

📞 Connect with Maysoon

→https://maysoon.com/

→https://maysoon.com/beyonce-the-cat/

→https://www.facebook.com/maysoonzayid/

→https://twitter.com/maysoonzayid

→https://www.instagram.com/maysoonzayid/

👊 To learn more about Not Almost There by visiting this link 

→ Not Almost There http://notalmostthere.com/​

Connect with Joe on social here:

→Instagram https://www.instagram.com/joe_chura/​

→Facebook https://www.facebook.com/notalmostthere/​

→Twitter http://twitter.com/joechura

Nelson Charles Dellis is an American memory athlete, although he won’t call himself that.  His titles include Grandmaster of Memory, mountaineer, published author, public speaker, and consultant. He is a four-time USA Memory Champion, tying the record for most wins of the national memory champion title. He is also one of the co-founders of Memory League (formerly, Extreme Memory Tournament). Nelson also runs Climb 4 Memory - a nonprofit which aims to raise funds and awareness for Alzheimer's disease research through mountain climbs around the world.

→IN THIS EPISODE… Joe discusses with 4x USA Memory Champ, Nelson Dellis, his experiences climbing Mount Everest, how he got started in memory games/competitions, and his philanthropic cause, Climb 4 Memory. Nelson shares actionable exercises you can use today so you never again have to say, “Sorry, I’m horrible with names.”  It’s so empowering to know that, with practice and imagination, you CAN cultivate your memory superpower and apply it to any part of your life. 

🔍 Breakdown with Nelson Dellis:

Chapter 1 (0:00​) Introducing Nelson Dellis

Joe introduces Nelson.

Chapter 2 (1:57) Everest vs Memory Champion

What is harder, climbing Everest or becoming a Memory Champion? It’s tricky to choose one, as they are so different, but Nelson explains the challenges of both.

Chapter 3 (2:58​) Everest Unpacked

Over 800 trek to the Everest summit every year, but only a fraction are able to actually complete it.  There is a 1% death rate, and Nelson experienced all of the challenges the mountain had to offer.

Chapter 4 (11:18) Climbing Interest

Travel had been an interest of Nelson’s and wanted to travel with a sense of purpose. Mountains had an existential pull for him and thus started his mountaineering journey.

Chapter 5 (12:39) Memory Path Begins

Around the time Nelson began exploring mountains, his grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. This started his fascination with memory and how the brain works.

Chapter 6 (17:03) Memory Techniques within Schools

Memory techniques would be a great fundamental lesson kids should learn in school. Remembering facts is crucial to a school-aged child’s success.

Chapter 7 (​19:39) Most Common Question

How to memorize names is a common question and something that we could use in our everyday lives. Nelson is also asked about speed reading.

Chapter 8 (​21:31) Actionable ways to improve memory

Nelson gives some great exercises on how to improve their memory. Place value in the person you are talking to no matter who they are.

Chapter 9 (30:50) How to be present while memorizing

Being present while trying to memorize seems counterintuitive.  Nelson gives tips on who to do both, most important to keep in mind, is the more you practice, the quicker these techniques happen.

Chapter 10 (​33:56) Speed Reading

Speed reading can often be a hoax or a parlor trick.  Nelson explains the gift isn’t about reading as fast as possible, but reading efficiently so you can get through the material quickly and retain what you read.

Chapter 11 (37:06) Entrepreneurial Spirit

If not in the memory world, Nelson would be running his own business. He also has a strong interest in coaching and teaching so would be a college professor.

Chapter 12 (38:28​) Overcoming introverted tendencies

One on one is much more daunting than speaking to a room of thousands.  Nelson read a lot about how to be better at his interpersonal skills. Just like memory, the more you practice interactions, the easier they become.

Chapter 13 (42:58​) Climb 4 Memory

Bringing awareness to the importance of taking care of your brain health was important to Nelson. He felt combining his interest in climbing with memory and brain health was a perfect partnership.

Chapter 14 (45:12​) Speed round of Questions

Joe asks Nelson a series of questions he answers quickly and off the cuff, from his favorite activities to how he met his wife.

Chapter 15 (47:20) Wrap-Up

Final thoughts from Joe.

Material Referenced in this interview:

→Memory Superpowers! (Children’s Book) By Nelson Dellis 

→Remember It! By Nelson Dellis 

→Read a Book in a Day (youtube speed read video)

→Memory Games - Netflix Special Documentary

→The Game by Neil Strauss

→Quantum Memory Power by Dominic O’Brien

📞 Connect with Nelson

→http://nelsondellis.com/ 

→https://www.everestmemory.com/ (memory masterclass)

→https://www.climb4memory.org/

→https://www.nelsondellis.com/my-blog/

→https://www.nelsondellis.com/memory-tips

👊 To learn more about Not Almost There by visiting this link 

→ Not Almost There http://notalmostthere.com/​

Connect with Joe on social here:

→Instagram https://www.instagram.com/joe_chura/​

→Facebook https://www.facebook.com/notalmostthere/​

→Twitter http://twitter.com/joechura

🚪Alex Banayan, author, interview guru, and speaker. Throughout his unprecedented journey, Banayan’s research led him to interview the most innovative leaders of the past half-century, including Bill Gates, Lady Gaga, Larry King, Maya Angelou, Steve Wozniak, Jane Goodall, Jessica Alba, Quincy Jones, and more. Alex is also the youngest bestselling business author in American history. The Third Door chronicles Banayan’s seven-year quest to uncover the definitive mindset of exponential growth and success. Alex was also named to Forbes’ 30 Under 30 list and Business Insider’s “Most Powerful People Under 30,” Banayan is his generation’s leading expert in high-performance and personal development, having been featured in Fortune, CNBC, Businessweek, The Washington Post, MSNBC, Fox News, and NBC News. Banayan has presented the Third Door™ framework to corporate leadership teams around the world, including Apple, Google, Nike, IBM, Snapchat, Salesforce, Delta Airlines, Kaiser Permanente, Mastercard, and Disney.

IN THIS EPISODE

Chapter 2 (4:31​​) Tony Hsieh's Master Class in Leadership

Chapter 3 (​10:39​​) You Have to Ask

Chapter 4 (​12:39​​) Reluctant Family Support

Chapter 5 (19:58​​​) Heart-Based Choices

Chapter 6 (23:00​​​) Qi Lu Lessons

Chapter 7 (30:05​​) Warren Buffet Valuable Lessons

Chapter 8 (​35:49​​) Effectiveness of Person to Person interaction

Chapter 9 (45:20​​​) What Do You Actually Want from Steve (Woz) Wozniak

Chapter 10 (50:18​​​) Lady Gaga at an Unexpected Moment

Chapter 11 (​54:17​​) Quincy Jones was a Life-Changing Interview

Chapter 12 (​59:05​​) A burning question from Cal Fussman

Chapter 13 (1:03:12​​) In Closing — Lessons From a Father

→The Third Door by Alex Banayan

→Delivering Happiness by Tony Hsieh

→https://www.gladwellbooks.com/​

📞 Connect with Alex

→http://thirddoorbook.com/​

→https://www.facebook.com/AlexBanayan/​

→https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexbanayan/​

→https://www.instagram.com/alexbanayan/​

→https://twitter.com/AlexBanayan​

👊 To learn more about Not Almost There by visiting this link

→ Not Almost There http://notalmostthere.com/​​

Connect with Joe on social here:

→Instagram https://www.instagram.com/joe_chura/​​

→Facebook https://www.facebook.com/notalmostthe...​

→Twitter http://twitter.com/joechura

JP Dinnell is a former Navy SEAL and was sent to the violent terrorist stronghold of Ar Ramadi, Iraq in 2006 with SEAL Team Three’s Task Unit Bruiser. J.P. served as point man, machine gunner, and lead sniper for Delta Platoon opposite the American Sniper, Chris Kyle, in Charlie Platoon. He is a true American Hero. Upon his return, J.P. connected and partnered with Jocko Wilnik’s organization, Echelon Front, helping rebuild and enhance corporate/life/leadership training programs into the highly effective platforms they are today. He serves as Director of Tactical Training Programs, leadership instructor, speaker, and strategic advisor.

→IN THIS EPISODE...

JP dives into his life’s calling being a part of the Navy Seals, his grit determination, and bringing what he learned in combat to training the masses who are looking to hone and develop their own leadership skills.

🔍 Breakdown with JP Dinnell:

Chapter 1 (0:00​) Intro JP Dinnell - Becoming A Navy Seal

JP introduces himself and shares how his journey started becoming a Navy SEAL. 

Chapter 2 (3:01) Adversity at Recruiting

Confidence was instilled in JP; becoming a Navy Seal was a calling. Going to the recruiting office JP wasn’t met with the warm welcome one might anticipate.

Chapter 3 (8:15​) Getting Accepted Into BUD/S* 

It wasn’t easy, but JP never lost focus. He was intentional of his choices from his early days in the Navy to set himself up to become a seal, from his ASVAB** test to being intentional about his job selection.

Chapter 4 (​20:47) Source of Self-Confidence 

Self-assurance came to JP from an early age knowing he was doing what he was meant to do. JP thrived in combat situations.

Chapter 5 (31:50​) Leadership  

JP draws a direct correlation between leadership capabilities and every organization.  He goes into the good qualities of a leader and how he has been able to develop those skills in people.

Chapter 6 (34:33​) Advice to Refocus 

Prioritize and execute. JP identifies a loss of focus that happens when people come out of alignment within their life.

Chapter 7 (36:30) Breaking Point of Quitting

If you have a mindset of quitting, then you are already done. It's a mindset. Keep your focus on finishing and you will complete it.

Chapter 8 (​41:25) Leveling Up

Change the people you hang out with if they are contributing to your growth. JP also discusses 75 hard and the positive impact he had in his life.

Chapter 9 (51:45​) Signature Energy Drink  

Sniper Sour Apple is JP’s new Energy Drink and a professional milestone in its creation.

Chapter 10 (​52:53) Exercising With Your Partner

Prioritize quality time with your loved ones.  Take the time with your family so you don’t lose them.

Chapter 11 (​54:11) Echelon Front Online Courses 

EFonline. JP instructs online courses and has a leadership platform where you can progress at their own speed.

Chapter 12 (56:19​) Making Time to Learn  

Put on your earbuds and learn. No excuses, you have the time, just make it a priority.

Material Referenced in this interview:

→https://andyfrisella.com/pages/75hard

→75 HARD: A TACTICAL GUIDE TO WINNING THE WAR WITH YOURSELF by Andy Frisella

📞 Connect with JP

→https://efonline.com/ (Leadership course)

→https://echelonfront.com/jp-dinnell/

→https://originmaine.com/nutrition/jocko-go-drink-sour-apple-sniper-pack-of-12/ (link for JP’s Energy Drink code:americanmade 10% off)

→Follow JP @JPDinnell on all social media

👊 To learn more about Not Almost There by visiting this link 

→ Not Almost There http://notalmostthere.com/​

Connect with Joe on social here:

→Instagram https://www.instagram.com/joe_chura/​

→Facebook https://www.facebook.com/notalmostthere/​

→Twitter http://twitter.com/joechura

*Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL

Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) Training (24 weeks) BUD/S is a 24-week training course that develops the SEAL candidates' mental and physical stamina and leadership skills.

**Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery

ASVAB stands for the Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery, which is a multiple-choice test that helps you identify which Army jobs (Military Occupational Specialties) would be best for you.