What does it take to transform a small garage startup into the world’s largest online retailer of custom blinds? In this episode, Cody McLain sits down with Jay Steinfeld, the founder and former CEO of Blinds.com, to uncover the secrets behind his groundbreaking leadership philosophy—the Four E’s: Evolve, Experiment, Express, and Enjoy.

Jay shares how these principles shaped Blinds.com’s journey from its humble beginnings to a $150 billion partnership with Home Depot, and why fostering a culture of continuous improvement, generosity, and experimentation was critical to its success.

Discover how to build a thriving business culture, create meaningful customer experiences, and lead with authenticity—even in the face of adversity. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, leader, or innovator, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you achieve your own business breakthrough.

 ℹ️ About this Guest

Jay Steinfeld is an accomplished entrepreneur, author, and business leader who revolutionized the e-commerce industry as the founder and former CEO of Blinds.com, the world’s largest online retailer of custom blinds. Launching the company from his garage in 1993, Jay built it into a market leader, culminating in its acquisition by Home Depot.

A pioneer in business innovation, Jay is known for his leadership philosophy, “The Four E’s: Evolve, Experiment, Express, and Enjoy,” which he detailed in his book Lead from the Core: The Four Principles for Profit and Prosperity. Beyond his entrepreneurial success, Jay is an Entrepreneur in Residence at Rice University, an advisor at UT Austin’s Herb Kelleher Entrepreneurship Center, and a sought-after speaker on leadership, culture, and innovation.

Through his work, Jay has inspired countless individuals and organizations to embrace continuous improvement, create impactful cultures, and lead with authenticity and generosity.

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• Lead from the Core By Jay Steinfeld

 
👨‍💻 People & Other Mentions

• UT Austin's Herb Keller Entrepreneurship Center
• Rice University
• Give and Take: Why Helping Others Drives Our Success by Adam Grant
• Stephen Covey
• The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: A Leadership Fable by Patrick M. Lencioni
• From Foster Care to Millionaire: A Young Entrepreneur's Journey of Success, Failure, and Triumph by Cody McLain
• Edwin Catmull

What happens when you reach the summit of success, only to find yourself feeling empty? In this episode of the MindHack podcast, Cody McLain shares his personal journey of achievement, disillusionment, and discovery. Drawing from ancient wisdom, modern neuroscience, and his own hard-won insights, Cody unpacks the hidden flaws of our achievement-obsessed culture and reveals how to break free from the cycle of empty success.

Explore how to shift your focus from external milestones to internal fulfillment, embrace the process of living with purpose, and find joy in the journey rather than the destination. Whether you’re grinding toward your goals or wondering why success doesn’t feel as fulfilling as you expected, this episode offers practical tools and timeless wisdom to help you redefine what it means to truly succeed.

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• From Foster Care to Millionaire: A Young Entrepreneur's Journey of Success, Failure, and Triumph by Cody McLain

  👨‍💻 People & Other Mentions 

• Seneca the Younger
• Steve Jobs
• Robert Sapolsky
• Daniel Kahneman
• Prospect theory
• Ikigai
• Ubuntu Philosophy
• Viktor Frankl
• Laura A. King
• G.L.A.D Technique
• Headspace App
• Calm App
• One Second Everyday App
• Insight Timer App
• Reflection App
• Day One App
• Thích Nhất Hạnh
• The Second Mountain: The Quest for a Moral Life by David Brooks
• The Power of Meaning: Finding Fulfillment in a World Obsessed with
• Happiness by Emily Esfahani Smith
• Julia Cameron
• The Artist's Way by Julia Cameron

In this episode of the MindHack Podcast, we sit down with Ben "Doc" Askins, a former combat medic turned psychiatric physician assistant, who brings a wealth of experience in trauma therapy and unconventional healing. With nearly two decades in military medicine and a specialization in psychedelic-assisted psychotherapy, Ben challenges the traditional Hero’s Journey narrative and instead explores the path of the Anti-Hero—a journey that delves into the raw, real, and often messy truths of self-discovery. Through his unique insights, Ben shares how confronting trauma and embracing empathy are essential for true healing.

This conversation is for anyone grappling with their own inner battles or seeking to make peace with past traumas. Together, we uncover practical steps to break free from self-deception, build meaningful connections, and find empathy not only for others but also for ourselves. Join us as we unpack a new approach to healing—one that is unfiltered, authentic, and ultimately empowering.

 ℹ️ About this Guest

Ben "Doc" Askins is a former combat medic and psychiatric physician assistant with nearly two decades of experience in trauma care and therapy. Certified in MDMA-assisted psychotherapy by the Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), Ben blends traditional medicine with innovative approaches to healing. As the author of Anti-Hero’s Journey: The Zero With a Thousand Faces, he challenges conventional narratives of growth, offering raw insights on trauma, empathy, and self-discovery. Through his work, Ben inspires others to confront their struggles and embrace authentic transformation.

• Website
• Clinical Website
• Facebook Page
• YouTube
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• Instagram
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• Anti-Hero's Journey: The Zero With a Thousand Faces: A Warped War Memoir on the Way to Enlightenment By Ben "Doc" Askins
  
  

 👨‍💻 People & Other Mentions 

• Maps (MultiDisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies)
• The Hero with a Thousand Faces (The Collected Works of Joseph Campbell) by Joseph Campbell
• Transpersonal Psychology
• Dr. Stanislav "Stan" Grof
• Carl Jung
• Carl Jung Shadow
• Karpman Drama Triangle
• Transactional Analysis in Psychotherapy: A Systematic Individual and Social Psychiatry by Eric Berne
• Catch-22 by Joseph Heller
• The Body Keeps the Score: Brain, Mind, and Body in the Healing of Trauma by Bessel van der Kolk
• Default Mode Network
• MDMA

In this episode of the MindHack podcast, we sit down with tech journalist Kurt Wagner, author of Battle for the Bird: Jack Dorsey, Elon Musk, and the $44 Billion Fight for Twitter’s Soul. Kurt takes us behind the scenes of Elon Musk’s high-stakes acquisition of Twitter and shares the inside story of how power, influence, and a radical vision for free speech collided to reshape one of the world’s most influential social media platforms. From Musk’s initial ‘joke’ about buying Twitter to his controversial rebranding of the platform as 'X,' we explore the twists, tensions, and drama that defined this $44 billion battle.

Tune in as we uncover the motivations driving Musk, Jack Dorsey’s role in the takeover, and the impact of this transformation on Twitter’s users, advertisers, and future. This is more than a tech story—it’s a look at the cost of influence and the evolving role of free speech in today’s digital age. Don’t miss this riveting discussion with Kurt Wagner, packed with insights into the cultural and corporate forces that forever changed Twitter.

ℹ️ About this Guest

Kurt Wagner is a senior technology journalist with a focus on social media, Silicon Valley, and the influential figures shaping the tech industry. As the author of Battle for the Bird: Jack Dorsey, Elon Musk, and the $44 Billion Fight for Twitter’s Soul, Kurt provides a deep dive into one of the most talked-about tech acquisitions in history. With years of experience reporting for Bloomberg, he has built a reputation for delivering sharp, insightful coverage on the intersection of technology, business strategy, and cultural influence. Kurt’s work unpacks the complexities of social media platforms, the leadership challenges within tech giants, and the evolving role of free speech in the digital age.

• Website
• Twitter
• Instagram Threads
• LinkedIn
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• Battle for the Bird: Jack Dorsey, Elon Musk, and the $44 Billion Fight for Twitter's Soul by Kurt Wagner

👨‍💻 People & Other Mentions

• Elon Musk
• Parag Agrawal
• Talulah Riley
• The Babylon Bee
• Elon Musk (Biography) by Walter Isaacson
• Walter Isaacson
• Tesla
• Sequoia
• Morgan Stanley
• Jason Calacanis
• Andreessen Horowitz
• FOIA (Freedom of Information Act)
• Larry Ellison
• Gayle King
• xAI
• SpaceX
• Esther Crawford
• Jack Dorsey
• The Problem With Elon Musk by Johnny Harris

In this episode of the MindHack podcast, Cody McLain dives deep with George Mumford, renowned mindfulness coach and the author of The Mindful Athlete and Unlocked. George is known for his work with elite athletes like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, helping them unlock their potential through the power of mindfulness. In this insightful conversation, George shares his journey from overcoming addiction to becoming a beacon of mindfulness and mental resilience. Together, they explore the concepts of "effortless effort," authenticity, and how self-awareness can transform not only athletic performance but also everyday life.

Listen in as George explains how to tap into inner wisdom, find flow in the midst of life’s challenges, and navigate the pressures of high performance. Whether you're striving for greatness in your career, personal life, or athletic endeavors, this episode offers powerful strategies for embracing your true self and thriving.

ℹ️ About this Guest

George Mumford is a renowned mindfulness coach and author, known for his transformative work with elite athletes, including legends like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant. With a unique blend of wisdom, empathy, and practical insights, George has helped individuals from all walks of life unlock their true potential through mindfulness. His personal journey from overcoming addiction to becoming a sought-after speaker and coach is a testament to the power of self-awareness and resilience. George’s teachings emphasize authenticity, mental strength, and the art of finding flow, making him a guiding light for those seeking to master their mind and elevate their performance.

• Website
• Twitter
• Instagram
• YouTube
• LinkedIn
• Facebook
• Quick Hitters App
• Listen on Apple Podcast
• Listen on Spotify
• Download as an MP3 - https://bit.ly/3UmtPNr
• Unlocked: Embrace Your Greatness, Find the Flow, Discover Success by George Mumford
• Other books here

👨‍💻 People & Other Mentions

• From Foster Care to Millionaire: A Young Entrepreneur's Story of Tragedy and Triumph By Cody McLain
• The Power of Myth by Joseph Campbell
• Simone Biles
• Roger Bannister
• Four-minute mile
• Martin Buber
• The Way of Man: According to the Teaching of Hasidism by Martin Buber
• Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
• The Power of Awareness: Unlocking the Law of Attraction by Neville Goddard
• Tim Ferris
• Lewis Howes
• Alan Watts
• Love & Will by Rollo May
• The Art of Loving by Erich Fromm
• Escape from Freedom by Erich Fromm

In this episode, we dive into the transformative potential of psychedelics as a tool for self-healing and well-being. Our guest, Neil Markey, CEO and co-founder of Beckley Retreats, shares his remarkable journey from military service and high-pressure corporate environments to discovering mindfulness and psychedelics as powerful catalysts for change. Learn how Neil’s experiences have shaped his approach to mental health, and how Beckley Retreats integrates scientific research with ancient wisdom to offer profound healing experiences. Whether you're curious about the therapeutic benefits of psychedelics or seeking practical steps for your own well-being, this episode provides valuable insights into harnessing these tools for lasting growth.

About this Guest

Neil Markey is the co-founder and CEO of Beckley Retreats, a leader in psychedelic wellness and integrative health. From his military service as a U.S. Army Ranger to navigating the high-stakes world of corporate leadership at McKinsey & Co., Neil’s journey led him to discover the healing power of mindfulness and psychedelics. Today, he’s dedicated to helping others transform their lives through holistic wellness programs that blend ancient wisdom with modern science.

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LinkedIn
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Get $500 off on your next retreat!!! Use the Code: Mind500

People & Other Mentions

PTSD (Post-traumatic stress disorder)
McKinsey & Co.
Last Week Tonight with John Oliver
Matt Wilson (Under 30 Experiences)
Huichol
Amanda Feilding
Psilocybin
Vox
Ibogaine
Ayahuasca
DMT (N,N-Dimethyltryptamine)
Reiki
Reiki Article
Dr. Joe Dispenza
Dr. Peter Attia
How to Change Your Mind: What the New Science of Psychedelics Teaches Us About Consciousness, Dying, Addiction, Depression, and Transcendence by Michael Pollan
Stealing Fire: How Silicon Valley, the Navy SEALs, and Maverick Scientists Are Revolutionizing the Way We Live and Work by Steven Kotler
Wherever You Go, There You Are: Mindfulness Meditation in Everyday Life by Jon Kabat-Zinn

In this episode of the MindHack Podcast, we sit down with Blake D. Bauer, bestselling author and renowned expert on mental, emotional, and physical health. Blake shares his incredible personal story of overcoming addiction and self-destruction to discover that the root of all suffering lies in our inability to truly love and value ourselves. He offers powerful insights into how self-love can be the key to healing deep emotional wounds, conquering fear, and breaking free from negative thinking. Through his unique blend of practical advice and mindfulness, Blake shows how anyone can transform their life by cultivating a healthy relationship with their mind, body, and emotions.

Blake also delves into the critical role that meditation plays in mental and emotional freedom, explaining why mastering your mind is essential to finding inner peace. Whether you're struggling with depression, anxiety, or simply feeling stuck in life, Blake’s approach provides a clear, no-nonsense guide to reclaiming your happiness and living with confidence. Tune in to learn how self-love can lead to profound healing and lasting transformation.

About This Guest

Blake D. Bauer is a bestselling author, speaker, and expert in mental, emotional, and physical health. With years of experience, Blake has helped over 100,000 people around the world break free from suffering through his transformative teachings on self-love, mindfulness, and natural healing. His approach, rooted in personal experience and holistic practices, empowers individuals to overcome anxiety, depression, and emotional pain, leading to a life of confidence and inner peace.

Website
Instagram
Facebook
Facebook Page
YouTube
Free Meditation
Qi Gong Course
Listen on Apple Podcast
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You Were Not Born to Suffer: Overcome Fear, Insecurity and Depression and Love Yourself Back to Happiness, Confidence and Peace by Blake D. Bauer
Other books here

People & Other Mentions

The Power of Now: A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment by Eckhart Tolle
The Untethered Soul: The Journey Beyond Yourself by Michael A. Singer
Tai Chi
Buddhist Meditation
Taoism Meditation
Qigong Meditation
NSDR (Non-Sleep Deep Rest)
Chris Farley
SNL (Saturday Night Live)
Snoop Dogg

In this episode of the MindHack Podcast, we take a deep dive into the mechanics of anxiety with Dr. David Carbonell, an expert psychologist and the author of The Worry Trick. Have you ever felt overwhelmed by worry, as if your anxious thoughts were controlling your life? Dr. Carbonell explains how anxiety cleverly manipulates your mind into expecting the worst, trapping you in a cycle of fear and avoidance. Through our discussion, he reveals the psychological tricks that keep you stuck and shares proven strategies to help you break free. With a focus on practical advice, Dr. Carbonell introduces powerful tools like exposure therapy and cognitive-behavioral techniques that can help you confront and outsmart your worries, allowing you to regain control over your thoughts and your life.

Whether you’re dealing with chronic anxiety or occasional bouts of worry, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable steps to help you overcome these challenges. Dr. Carbonell’s approach is both compassionate and effective, making complex psychological concepts easy to understand and apply. By the end of this episode, you’ll not only understand why you worry but also have a clear plan for how to tackle it. Tune in to learn how you can stop letting anxiety dictate your life and start living with more peace, confidence, and clarity.

About this Guest

Dr. David Carbonell is a distinguished clinical psychologist with over 30 years of experience, specializing in the treatment of anxiety disorders. Renowned for his compassionate and practical approach, Dr. Carbonell combines cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT) to help individuals overcome chronic worry and regain control of their lives. As the author of the highly regarded book The Worry Trick: How Your Brain Tricks You into Expecting the Worst and What You Can Do About It, he has provided invaluable insights and strategies to countless readers, empowering them to manage their anxiety more effectively. In addition to his writing, Dr. Carbonell has dedicated his career to clinical work, guiding many through their personal struggles with anxiety, and offering workshops and online resources to reach a broader audience. His ability to demystify complex psychological concepts and his commitment to improving mental health have made him a trusted authority in the field of anxiety treatment.

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The Worry Trick: How Your Brain Tricks You into Expecting the Worst and What You Can Do About It by Dr. David Carbonell
Other books here

People & Other Mentions

Oprah Winfrey
Cognitive Behavioral Approaches to Anxiety
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)
Stoicism
David

In this episode of the MindHack Podcast, we sit down with Tanith Carey, a psychology author and Gestalt psychotherapist-in-training, to explore the often overlooked issue of anhedonia, the inability to feel pleasure. Drawing from her latest book, "Feeling 'Blah'? Why Life Feels Joyless and How to Recapture Its Highs," Tanith delves into the relentless stressors of modern life and how they affect our brain's reward system, effectively taking it 'off line.'

Tanith shares her personal journey with anhedonia and provides a deep understanding of how our high-speed, high-stress lifestyles contribute to this condition. Rather than pursuing the elusive concept of happiness, Tanith focuses on finding moments of joy in our challenging world. She offers actionable strategies to help listeners reclaim these moments despite the pressures of modern life.

Join us as we uncover the biochemical underpinnings of joy and learn practical steps to navigate the complexities of the modern world, ensuring you can overcome anhedonia and find joy in everyday life. This insightful discussion is packed with expert advice and real-world solutions to help you reconnect with life's pleasures. Don't miss this episode if you're looking to transform your life and rediscover joy amid today's stressors.

About this Guest

Website
Twitter
Instagram
Facebook
Linktree
LinkedIn
YouTube
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Listen on Spotify
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Feeling 'Blah'?: Why Life Feels Joyless and How to Recapture Its Highs by Tanith Carey
Other books here

People & Other Mentions

mesolimbic pathway
Andrew Huberman
Anhedonia
ADHD
Burnout
FMRI Scan
Learning to Listen, Listening to Learn: Building Essential Skills in Young Children by Mary Renck Jalongo

Join host Cody McLain in this episode of the MindHack Podcast as he sits down with Anita Anello, an entrepreneur who successfully transitioned from a high-powered software executive to a homeschooling mom and thriving home-based business owner. Anita shares her journey of leaving the corporate world to seek greater freedom and fulfillment, and how she developed her 6-Step Blueprint to Build a Profitable Business. She provides practical insights and actionable advice for those looking to make a similar transition, highlighting the importance of identifying strengths, building a following, nurturing relationships, and presenting compelling offers.

In addition, Anita introduces her Elite Entrepreneur Events Formula, a strategy designed to help entrepreneurs host virtual events that generate significant revenue. Discover how Anita balances business success with family life and empowers women to achieve their dreams. This episode is packed with valuable guidance on navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship and creating a profitable business while maintaining a fulfilling personal life.

Whether you're contemplating a career change, starting your own business, or seeking ways to achieve a better work-life balance, this episode provides the motivation and tools you need to take the next step in your entrepreneurial journey.

About this Guest

Anita Anello is an entrepreneur who transitioned from a high-powered software executive to a homeschooling mom and successful home-based business owner. With years of experience in the corporate world, Anita now leverages her expertise to empower women through her 6-Step Blueprint to Build a Profitable Business. She is dedicated to helping individuals turn their specialized knowledge into thriving consulting businesses. Anita's journey is marked by resilience, community building, and a passion for balancing professional success with family life. She also developed the Elite Entrepreneur Events Formula, designed to help entrepreneurs host virtual events that generate significant revenue. Anita's commitment to empowering others and her practical, actionable advice make her a respected figure in the entrepreneurial community.

Guest Links

• Website
• Elite Entrepreneurs VIP
• Facebook
• YouTube
• Listen on Apple Podcast
• Listen on Spotify
• Download as an MP3
• Free 6-Step Blueprint to Build A Profitable, Skills-Based Business

People & Other Mentions

• Jodi Wellman
• You Only Die Once: How to Make It to the End with No Regrets by Jodi Wellman
• Jodi Wellman Interview
• Crushing It!: How Great Entrepreneurs Build Their Business and Influence—and How You Can, Too by Gary Vaynerchuk
• Everybody Writes: Your Go-To Guide for Creating Ridiculously Good Content by Ann Handley