What if the way you expect your day, your workout, or even your relationships to go is already shaping the outcome?

In this episode of Optimizing Beyond, Josh Negron explores the Expectation Effect — the powerful way our beliefs and predictions shape our performance, mindset, and growth. From placebo responses to decision fatigue, from misbeliefs that limit us to frameworks that free us, this conversation is all about learning to spot the scripts running in your head — and rewriting them.

You’ll also hear Josh’s BELIEF Framework, a practical way to challenge false assumptions and replace them with beliefs that drive growth and clarity.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

• Why the brain is a “prediction machine”
• How expectations can fuel energy — or drain it
• Real-world examples of the placebo and nocebo effects
• Why decision fatigue may be more about belief than biology
• The BELIEF Framework for reframing false expectations into growth-oriented truths

Listener Challenge:

Identify one limiting expectation you’ve been carrying. Write it down. Then, apply the BELIEF Framework to rewrite it into something that drives you forward.

• B – Break down the belief (name it clearly)
• E – Examine the evidence for and against it
• L – Look for alternative perspectives
• I – Implement a new, healthier belief
• E – Experiment by living it out in real situations
• F – Frame the results and reinforce the truth

In this first episode of Optimizing Beyond, Josh Negron wrestles with the question: when is it better to speak, and when is it wiser to stay silent?

With recent events weighing heavy, Josh reflects on two contrasting perspectives from people he respects — one seeing silence as cowardice, the other seeing silence as restraint. Along the way, he shares insights on freedom of speech, cancel culture, the weight of consequences, and why deliberately engaging people with different views can sharpen our thinking.

This episode isn’t about easy answers. It’s about asking the hard questions, challenging assumptions, and learning how to grow through dialogue.

What you’ll hear in this episode:

• The pressure of choosing when to speak up or hold back
• Two different takes on silence: cowardice vs. discipline
• Wrestling with freedom of speech and freedom of consequences
• Why exposing yourself to opposing viewpoints leads to growth
• A challenge to engage someone you disagree with in genuine dialogue

Listener Challenge:

This week, ask yourself: Where am I staying silent out of fear?

And, Who could I approach with curiosity instead of certainty to learn from their perspective?

Every day, you make choices that either move you forward or keep you stuck. What if you could learn how to optimize those choices and push beyond where you are right now?

I’m Josh Negron — leader, entrepreneur, and lifelong optimizer. For years I’ve been obsessed with improving fitness, health, longevity, leadership, mindset, and more. Now I want to share what I’m learning with you.

Optimizing Beyond is a weekly podcast where I deliver two things:

1. One actionable step you can put into practice right away.
2. One idea that challenges your thinking, gets you out of your comfort zone, and pushes you to grow.

If you’re ready to challenge your beliefs, rethink what’s possible, and start optimizing your life — subscribe now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen.