Inside The Inspired

Inside The Inspired

By Jonathan Z. CohenEducationSelf-Improvement
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Inside The Inspired episodes

  • Navy Seal Commander Explains How To Achieve Optimal Perfomance | Rich Diviney

    Unlock optimal performance in this episode of Inside the Inspired with Navy SEAL Commander Rich Diviney. Discover the key difference between peak and optimal performance and why true high-performers thrive under stress, challenge, and uncertainty.


    Diviney shares insights on the importance of courage, perseverance, and adaptability, backed by personal stories and research. Learn how self-awareness, situational awareness, and emotional intelligence are vital for building unshakable mental toughness.


    Tune in for a masterclass on excelling in the face of the unknown and elevate your performance to the next level.


    Here are a few key takeaways from this episode:



    1. ​Optimal vs. Peak Performance: Understand the difference between optimal performance (doing your best in the moment) and peak performance (planned and scheduled). Optimal performance encourages responsible energy management and celebrates non-peak moments.


    1. ​Attributes Drive High Performance: Focus on attributes like courage, perseverance, and adaptability over just skills. Cultivating self-awareness of these unique attributes is key to high performance.


    1. ​Training for Uncertainty: Embrace the idea of "educating for uncertainty" by deliberately facing ambiguous and challenging situations. This approach builds mental toughness and helps transform fear into excitement through conscious choices.


    Timestamps:


    01:04 - Introduction

    01:45 - Peak vs. optimal performance explained.

    06:22 - Differences between skills, attributes, values, and strengths.

    10:24 - Developing decisiveness as an attribute.

    12:54 - Defining and understanding mental toughness.

    15:47 - Narcissism’s link to mental toughness.

    20:16 - Navy SEAL culture and performance expectations.

    25:29 - Self-awareness, situational awareness, and emotional intelligence.

    49:51 - Diviney’s advice for his future self.


    Check out my FREE reading list: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://insidetheinspired.com/reading⁠⁠⁠⁠


    For all of the courses, podcasts, blogs, contact, and merch, check out our website:

    https://insidetheinspired.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


    Listen on Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠


    Listen on Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1FV1VqP⁠⁠⁠⁠


    Follow Jonathan on Instagram: @jonathanzcohen

    52 min
  • If You Haven't Failed, You Haven't Been Playing the Game with Lee Trink

    From the courtroom to the boardroom, Lee Trink’s journey exemplifies resilience, reinvention, and leadership.


    In this episode, Lee Trink, CEO of Game Theory Ventures, reflects on his diverse career path. Starting as a Brooklyn prosecutor, he transitioned into the music industry, where he played a key role in launching stars like Kid Rock and Katy Perry.


    Now a business leader and advocate for Israel, Trink shares how his legal background has been instrumental in his business ventures and supporting the Jewish community during challenging times.


    Expect to learn:


    1. ​ Insights into building resilience and adaptability through trial by fire experiences.
    2. ​ Lessons on the power of self-belief and the importance of challenging conventional wisdom in entrepreneurship.
    3. ​ An inspiring perspective on the personal and moral responsibility of advocacy, and the impact one person can have.


    Timestamps:


    01:14 - Lee’s Prosecutor to entrepreneurship journey.

    07:53 - Resilience through trial by fire.

    17:12 - Embracing failure, cultivating self-belief

    28:17 - Transitioning from music to eSports.

    38:17 - Personal advocacy for Israel.

    46:24 - Balancing activism and entrepreneurship.

    50:05 - Lee’s advice from future self.


    Check out my FREE reading list: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://insidetheinspired.com/reading⁠⁠⁠⁠


    For all of the courses, podcasts, blogs, contact, and merch, check out our website:

    https://insidetheinspired.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


    Listen on Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠


    Listen on Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1FV1VqP⁠⁠⁠⁠


    Follow Jonathan on Instagram: @jonathanzcohen

    47 min
  • Don't Say No. Don't Quit Before You Start with Jay Bilas

    Discover what it really takes to build mental toughness with Jay Bilas on this episode of Inside the Inspired.


    Drawing from his experience as a former basketball player, attorney, and sports analyst, Bilas dives into the importance of humility, preparation, and resilience.


    Learn how his legal education and mentorship shaped his mindset and explore the core principles that have fueled his success. Don’t miss these powerful insights on embracing challenges and thriving in any field.


    Here are 3 key takeaways from the interview with Jay Bilas:


    1. Insights into defining and cultivating mental toughness.

    2. Understanding how legal training can shape one's approach to high-pressure situations.

    3. Appreciation for the value of being open-minded and adaptable in pursuing new challenges.


    Timestamps:


    01:26 Introduction

    02:08 Jay shares his journey to writing the book on mental toughness.

    04:10 The impact of Jay’s legal training on his broadcasting career.

    07:44 Jay’s experiences playing basketball overseas.

    09:26 Cultivating curiosity and exploring different fields.

    11:57 Lessons Jay’s learned from Coach K.

    15:28 Balancing multiple roles and the importance of focus.

    22:42 The attributes of high performers and the value of humility.

    31:28 The importance of priorities and decision-making.

    41:29 Compartmentalizing high-pressure interviews.


    Check out my FREE reading list: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://insidetheinspired.com/reading⁠⁠⁠⁠
    For all of the courses, podcasts, blogs, contact, and merch, check out our website:
    https://insidetheinspired.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
    Listen on Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠
    Listen on Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1FV1VqP⁠⁠⁠⁠
    Follow Jonathan on Instagram: @jonathanzcohen

    45 min
  • Ep #150: Flying Towards Fear with Michelle Curran
    This episode of Inside the Inspired podcast features an interview with Michelle “Mace” Curran, a former F-16 pilot in the U.S. Air Force and current motivational speaker. The discussion explores Mace’s journey of overcoming self-doubt, imposter syndrome, and the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated field.
    The episode delves into the importance of transparency, accountability, and finding a clear purpose to drive personal growth and success, even in the face of adversity. Mace shares insights on the mental and physical demands of flying high-performance aircraft, as well as the lessons she has applied to her post-military career as a keynote speaker and author.
    Here are a few key takeaways from this episode:
    1. Strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome and self-doubt, even in high-pressure, high-stakes environments.
    2. The value of transparency, accountability, and finding a clear purpose to drive personal and professional development.
    3. Insights into the mental and physical demands of elite performance, and how those lessons can be applied to achieve success in various endeavors.
    00:00 Introduction
    00:09 Kern's motivation for joining the U.S. Air Force.
    00:23 Michelle’s 13-year Air Force career.
    00:42 Michelle’s journey to becoming an F-16 pilot.
    01:08 Demands of flying the F-16 and Thunderbirds.
    03:55 Overcoming imposter syndrome.
    07:13 Navigating responsibilities as a trailblazer.
    11:58 Importance of trust and collaboration.
    16:05 Influence on decision-making and life approach.
    23:34 Transition to public speaking career.
    30:08 Preparation, repetition, and balancing action.
    40:23 Passion project of writing children's book.
    45:32 Michelle’s advice to her younger self.
    47:54 Conclusion and connecting with Michelle.
    Check out my FREE reading list: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://insidetheinspired.com/reading⁠⁠⁠⁠
    For all of the courses, podcasts, blogs, contact, and merch, check out our website:
    https://insidetheinspired.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠
    Listen on Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠
    Listen on Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1FV1VqP⁠⁠⁠⁠
    Follow Jonathan on Instagram: @jonathanzcohen
    50 min
  • Mamba Mentality with Howard Beck

    Veteran sports journalist Howard Beck has thrived in the rapidly changing media world, navigating 27 years of covering the NBA with adaptability and purpose.


    In this episode, we explore Beck's journey from his early passion for writing and sports to becoming a respected voice in the industry. Discover how he transitioned from the pre-internet era to the digital age, embracing new platforms like podcasting while competing against the best.


    Learn how Beck has maintained player access as their wealth and influence have grown, and how his commitment to nuanced storytelling continues to inform and entertain.


    Here are 3 key takeaways from the episode:


    1. The importance of adaptability and embracing change in a rapidly evolving industry.
    2. The value of cultivating unending curiosity and passion to sustain excellence in one's craft.
    3. Strategies for balancing objectivity and empathy when reporting on high-profile figures.

    4. Timestamps:


      00:00 Adapting to the evolving NBA media landscape over 27 years

      01:24 Sense of ownership and growth in Beck's podcasting journey

      08:58 Changing access for media amid rising NBA player salaries

      13:41 Capturing memorable moments and finding purpose in sports writing

      20:55 Common traits among top sports journalists and writers

      29:03 Impact of elite athletes' work ethic on Beck's perspective

      34:34 Sports writing, career goals, and fairness in journalism.

      Check out my FREE reading list: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://insidetheinspired.com/reading⁠⁠⁠⁠


      For all of the courses, podcasts, blogs, contact, and merch, check out our website:

      https://insidetheinspired.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


      Listen on Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠


      Listen on Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1FV1VqP⁠⁠⁠⁠


      Follow Jonathan on Instagram: @jonathanzcohen

      49 min
    5. Build Mental toughness THIS way with Bobby Maximus

      In this episode with Bobby Maximus, we delve into the often overlooked but crucial role of discipline and daily dedication in achieving long-term success.


      Through a deep exploration of presence, focus, and sacrifice, we uncover how these qualities are essential for unlocking excellence in all areas of life—from fitness to relationships.


      Bobby shares profound insights, revealing that the true path to greatness isn’t found in quick fixes or shortcuts, but in the relentless commitment to showing up every day, learning continuously, and making the necessary sacrifices.


      3 Key Takeaways from this episode:


      1. Daily discipline and consistency are key to building mental toughness and achieving goals.

      2. Being present and focused in the moment leads to excellence and productivity.

      3. Continuously learning, adapting, and surrounding yourself with better people enables growth and improvement.


      Timestamps


      0:00 - Introduction

      1:22 - Defining mental toughness and the importance of presence

      7:07 - Insights on high-performer mindsets and habits

      14:18 - Strategies for improving skills and performance

      35:23 - Advice for finding purpose and passion

      38:36 -Conclusion and where to follow Bobby

      40 min
    6. Level Up Your Mental Toughness with Phil Daru

      This episode explores the insights of renowned trainer Phil Daru, who has worked with elite athletes across various sports. It highlights the mindset and discipline of high-performers, their unwavering self-belief, and their ability to push past limits.


      The discussion also covers de Daru’s personal journey, including a pivotal moment that led him to change his life's direction, and the lessons he's learned from working with special operations forces and top athletes.


      3 Key Takeaways from the episode


      1. Insights into the mindset and habits of high-performing individuals, such as their relentless pursuit of improvement and ability to overcome mental and physical barriers.


      2. Understanding the importance of presence, mental toughness, and learning from both successes and failures to achieve long-term success.


      3. Inspiration from Phil’s personal journey, including how he made a conscious decision to change the trajectory of his life and the valuable lessons he has gained from his experiences.


      0:00 Introduction

      1:13 Insights on high-performing individuals

      7:31 Phil de Roo's personal journey and inflection point

      12:53 Insights on working with special operations forces and elite athletes

      22:38 Importance of presence, mental toughness, and learning from failures

      32:57 Conclusion and advice for the future


      Check out my FREE reading list: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://insidetheinspired.com/reading⁠⁠⁠⁠


      For all of the courses, podcasts, blogs, contact, and merch, check out our website:

      https://insidetheinspired.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


      Listen on Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠


      Listen on Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1FV1VqP⁠⁠⁠⁠


      Follow Jonathan on Instagram: @jonathanzcohen

      38 min
    7. How to Master Your Values with Dr. John Demartini

      Understanding your values is essential for personal growth and fulfillment. Living in alignment with what truly matters allows individuals to maximize their potential and achieve self-actualization.



      The episode features Dr. John Demartini, a renowned human behavior specialist, discussing the critical role of understanding personal values in achieving self-actualization and fulfillment. He emphasizes that living in alignment with one's highest values is essential for personal growth and making a meaningful contribution to society.



      We explore how values influence decision-making, the importance of self-awareness, and the connection to Maslow's hierarchy of needs, particularly regarding love, esteem, and fulfillment.



      3 Key Takeaways from this episode



      - Insights on identifying and aligning with personal values for growth.

      - Strategies for living authentically and achieving fulfillment.

      - Understanding the connection between values and peak performance.



      Timestamp



      0:00 - Introduction of Dr. John Demartini and his expertise in values.

      5:30 - Aligning actions with personal values for growth.

      12:15 - Free online tool to identify personal values.

      20:45 - Values' relation to fulfillment and self-actualization.

      30:00 - Congruence with values for true fulfillment.

      40:00 - Strategies for prioritizing tasks and focusing on inspiration.

      50:00 - Wrap-up and encouragement to explore personal values.

      Check out my FREE reading list: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://insidetheinspired.com/reading⁠⁠⁠⁠


      For all of the courses, podcasts, blogs, contact, and merch, check out our website:

      https://insidetheinspired.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


      Listen on Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠


      Listen on Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1FV1VqP⁠⁠⁠⁠


      Follow Jonathan on Instagram: @jonathanzcohen

      53 min
    8. Living in the Present with James Brackin

      In this episode, 20-year-old podcaster James Brackin shares his journey of overcoming imposter syndrome and achieving personal growth. Despite his young age, James has built a successful podcast with over 200 episodes, interviewing high-profile guests and sharing insights on cultivating unshakable confidence.



      James discusses his approach to personal development, focusing on unlearning limiting beliefs and embracing a mindset of possibility. He also highlights the power of detachment, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the present moment and not becoming overly attached to future goals.



      3 Key Takeaways from this Episode:



      1. Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Learn how to overcome imposter syndrome by focusing on action and proving your capabilities, regardless of age.



      2. Cultivating a Mindset of Possibility: Discover how to develop a mindset of inevitability, believing in your potential to achieve extraordinary things through risk-taking and perseverance, even amid doubt.



      3. The Power of Detachment: Understand the importance of enjoying the present moment and not becoming overly attached to future goals, inspired by personal experiences with loss.



      01:47 - Overcoming imposter syndrome and coaching at a young age

      04:19 - How books and action develop self-confidence

      07:33 - The mindset when you’re the youngest person in the room

      11:56 - A strategy and framework for building a successful podcast

      17:23 - James explains his "you can too" mindset

      22:23 - Self-talk and the positive relationship with yourself

      34:38 - The impact of personal loss and goal-setting perspectives from it



      Check out my FREE reading list: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://insidetheinspired.com/reading⁠⁠⁠⁠



      For all of the courses, podcasts, blogs, contact, and merch, check out our website:

      https://insidetheinspired.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠



      Listen on Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠



      Listen on Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1FV1VqP⁠⁠⁠⁠



      Follow Jonathan on Instagram: @jonathanzcohen

      40 min
    9. Lessons on How to Be Happy and Rich with Eric Jorgenson

      Innovation and optimism drive us toward an extraordinary future.


      In this episode, Jonathan interviews Eric Jorgenson, author of "The Almanac of Naval Ravikant." Eric discusses embracing an abundant mindset, potential advancements like multiplanetary living, and climate change solutions.


      He emphasizes growth, optimism, and balancing ambition with enjoying the process. Eric also shares lessons from industry giants, the value of persistence, and how he stays motivated and successful in entrepreneurship.


      3 Key Takeaways from this episode:


      1. Embrace Abundance: Focus on the vast opportunities for growth rather than dividing resources in a scarcity mindset.

      2. Balance and Mindfulness: Enjoy the journey toward your goals by balancing urgency with patience and reflecting on past experiences.

      3. Commitment to Consistency: Maintain consistent habits, like regular reading and personal growth practices, for long-term success.


      00:00 Intro to Eric Jorgensen and his book

      01:17 Helping others through his work

      03:35 Creative mediums and timeless books

      07:41 Impact of studying Naval Ravikant

      14:04 Access to high-profile individuals

      20:12 New venture as fund manager

      25:00 Overcoming imposter syndrome

      32:05 Investing in visionary tech

      52:30 Reading habits and persistence


      Check out my FREE reading list: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://insidetheinspired.com/reading⁠⁠⁠⁠

      For all of the courses, podcasts, blogs, contact, and merch, check out our website:

      https://insidetheinspired.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

      Listen on Apple Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠

      Listen on Spotify: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/1FV1VqP⁠⁠⁠⁠

      Follow Jonathan on Instagram: @jonathanzcohen


      55 min

    About Inside The Inspired

    From the publisher's feed

    A podcast helping driven professionals build mental toughness.