In this episode, Stephen and Britain Covey dive into Getting Things Done (GTD) by David Allen, a groundbreaking book that redefines productivity. They explore how GTD isn’t just about checking off tasks but about creating a trusted system to free your mind, reduce stress, and focus on what truly matters.  

Stephen shares his personal connection with David Allen, having worked closely with him early in his career. Together, they unpack the core principles of GTD, from "appropriate engagement" to the five-step workflow, and how these concepts can transform your work, relationships, and daily life.  

Through engaging storytelling and practical insights, this episode challenges the traditional view of productivity and offers a paradigm shift for managing your mind and tasks with clarity. Let's jump in!

What We Discuss

• [00:00] Introduction
• [05:44] Appropriate engagement: clear mind ⇒ full presence
• [09:13] Structure × freedom on the playing field
• [13:15] GTD as an “installed thought-process” for teams
• [17:37] The 5 steps: Capture · Clarify · Organize · Reflect · Engage
• [25:36] Next-action thinking stops mental “open loops”
• [28:52] Procrastination: signal of high stakes, not laziness
• [32:59] Paradigm shifts: presence over productivity & minds for ideas

Notable Quotes

• [05:44] “The methodology is about being appropriately engaged with your life… Are you appropriately engaged with your cat? …with your career and your future?” — David Allen
• [07:05] “Productivity has a lot of baggage: work harder, sweat harder, clock more hours… Real productivity is doing what clears your mind so you can stay focused and present.” — David Allen
• [19:15] “Your brain is a crappy office—it can juggle about four things before it’s hijacked by the latest and loudest.” — David Allen
• [25:36] “If you haven’t nailed the next physical, visible action, you haven’t finished thinking—so your mind keeps looping: What about the Saturday meeting? The cat food?” — David Allen

Resources

Paradigm Shifting Books

• Podcast
• Instagram 
• YouTube 

Books

• Getting Things Done by David Allen
• Deep Work — Cal Newport
• Four Thousand— Oliver Burkeman

David Allen

• Website

Britain Covey

• LinkedIn 
• Instagram

Stephen H. Covey

• LinkedIn

In this episode, Stephen and Britain Covey spotlight one of the most transformational ideas from The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Habit 1: Be Proactive. Featuring rare, archival audio from Stephen R. Covey himself, this episode explores the foundational mindset behind personal growth, empowerment, and leadership.

Stephen R. Covey’s voice rings through decades to offer one of the most important paradigm shifts: that between what happens to us and how we respond, there lies our ultimate freedom. With stories from Viktor Frankl to frontline caregivers to corporate leaders, the episode shows how taking responsibility isn’t just a behavioral shift, it’s a life-altering lens for viewing the world.

Whether you’re navigating career setbacks, relational challenges, or societal pressures, this episode will help you reclaim your agency and expand your influence.

What We Discuss

• [00:00] Introduction to power principle episodes
• [01:09] The legacy of Stephen R. Covey and Habit 1.
• [03:03] Viktor Frankl and the last human freedom
• [07:26] Why taking ownership is empowering, not daunting
• [08:56] Circle of Concern vs. Circle of Influence
• [10:19] The rise of Ben: How one proactive employee changed everything

Notable Quotes

• "Between stimulus and response is a space. In that space lies our power and our freedom to choose our response." — Stephen R. Covey
• "Your life is a product of your values, not your feelings... your decisions, not your conditions." — Stephen R. Covey
• "Proactive people work on the inner circle. Reactive people focus on the outer circle." — Stephen R. Covey

Resources

Paradigm Shifting Books

• Podcast
• Instagram 
• YouTube 

Books

• The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R, Covey

Britain Covey

• LinkedIn 
• Instagram

Stephen H. Covey

• LinkedIn

In this episode, Stephen and Britain Covey revisit a modern classic: Essentialism by Greg McKeown. They dive into the core message of doing “less but better,” exploring how prioritizing what truly matters can lead to a more meaningful, purpose-driven life.

Stephen reflects on his friendship with Greg McKeown, sharing stories that highlight the man behind the message. Together, the hosts explore how essentialism isn't just about time management; it's a fundamental paradigm shift. They unpack how this mindset applies in careers, early adulthood, leadership, and even family life.

Through thoughtful storytelling and personal insight, this episode challenges listeners to rethink the constant pursuit of more and instead, embrace the transformative power of intentional living.

What We Discuss

• [00:02] Introduction to essentialism
• [02:26] Greg's personal story that gave birth to essentialism
• [04:40] Principle of prioritizing your life
• [08:09] Life as a diamond mine
• [09:11] Less but better
• [13:04] Essentialism as a paradigm and not a hack
• [17:21] Essentialism for early career
• [21:22] Detecting life's mission
• [25:21] Reflection and experience
• [27:28] Prioritization and control

Notable Quotes

• [03:54] “If you don't prioritize your life, someone else will.” — Greg McKeown
• [08:04] “Life is much more akin to a diamond mine where it's not about how much stuff you get out. It's whether you can identify those few things that are exceptionally valuable.” — Greg McKeown
• [13:04] “If you try to do it all, all the time for everyone, you don't get it all. You get exhausted, you get burned out.” — Greg McKeown
• [13:24] “The essentialist is waking up in a way, a little bit like a Matrix moment, but you just wake up and you go, what? This isn't how it works at all.” — Greg McKeown
• [21:30] “There is an essential and unique mission in life that needs to be detected, not just designed, not just selected.” — Greg McKeown

Resources

Paradigm Shifting Books

• Podcast
• Instagram 
• YouTube 

Books

• Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown

Britain Covey

• LinkedIn 
• Instagram

Stephen H. Covey

• LinkedIn

In this special episode, Stephen and Britain Covey sit down with their father, Stephen M. R. Covey, to explore the real origin story behind The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey. From childhood family councils to a 20-year publishing journey, they uncover the behind-the-scenes moments that shaped one of the most influential personal development books of all time.

The episode dives deep into how the habits evolved over time, why paradigms matter more than behavior, and how primary greatness, not just success, leads to lasting fulfillment. With heartfelt stories, insightful breakdowns, and meaningful listener questions, this episode brings the 7 Habits to life in a way you’ve never heard before. Let's dive in!

What We Discuss

• [03:01] How the 7 Habits began as stand-alone principles
• [07:13] How the habit names and structure evolved
• [12:02] Why the 7 Habits took over 20 years to develop
• [16:08] Choosing purpose over profit: Stephen M. R. Covey’s career decision
• [27:11] Private victory as the key to public victory
• [29:38] Mental resilience in competitive environments
• [32:46] The hardest habit to live consistently
• [37:16] What would the 8th habit be?
• [39:19] Are the 7 Habits still relevant today?
• [57:28] Practical applications to live more effectively

Notable Quotes

• [04:47] “You have to decide what your highest priorities are and have the courage pleasantly, smilingly, unapologetically to say no to other things.” — Stephen H. Covey

• [20:53] “Secondary greatness is success. Primary greatness is character.” — Stephen M. R. Covey

• [25:21] “Peace doesn’t come from accumulation. It comes from contribution.” — Britain Covey

Resources

Paradigm Shifting Books

• Podcast
• Instagram 
• YouTube 

Books

• The 8th Habit by Stephen R. Covey
• The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R, Covey

Stephen M. R. Covey

• LinkedIn 

Britain Covey

• LinkedIn 
• Instagram

Stephen H. Covey

• LinkedIn

In this relaunch episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, hosts Stephen and Britain Covey share exciting updates about the podcast's new direction while blending personal stories with profound insights. Britain, a Super Bowl champion, reveals what winning the Super Bowl really feels like (including a hilarious kindergarten project involving "Flat Stanley"), while both hosts explore their grandfather Stephen R. Covey's timeless wisdom about paradigm shifts and why changing your perspective alters everything.

As part of the relaunch, they’re revisiting the 15 transformative books and authors already featured on the show—mining them for deeper insights and fresh relevance—before continuing their journey toward uncovering 40 must-read books for personal and professional growth. With new weekly episodes, this reboot promises a more structured and thoughtful approach to transformation, one paradigm at a time.

Tune in to discover why Britain's teammates laughed at Flat Stanley, how to apply Einstein's problem-solving principle to daily life, and what makes this podcast's approach to personal growth unique. Let's jump in!

What We Discuss

• [00:02] Introduction to Paradigm Shifting Books
• [01:20] Super Bowl Experience
• [03:24] Flat Stanley in the Super Bowl
• [06:03] Podcast relaunch
• [12:52] Why "paradigm shifting"?
• [14:45] Listening to Stephen R. Covey and Einstein's secret
• [17:50] Roots vs. branches concept
• [19:36] Invitation to join the journey

Notable Quotes

• [00:11:08] “What we'll do initially is go back through the 15 books and then get back into the ultimate goal of reviewing 40 books that everyone should read when it comes to personal and professional development.” — Stephen Covey

• [00:14:00] “Changing your paradigm will change your behavior far quicker than trying to fix the behavior itself.” — Britain Covey

• [00:18:23] “Focus on the roots, not the branches. That’s where real transformation happens.” — Stephen Covey

Resources

Paradigm Shifting Books

• Podcast
• Instagram 
• YouTube 

Britain Covey

• LinkedIn 
• Instagram

Stephen H. Covey

• LinkedIn

Unlocking Confidence and Presence with Amy Cuddy
In this powerful episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, Stephen and Britain Covey sit down with Amy Cuddy, renowned social psychologist and author of Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges. Together, they explore the transformative concept of presence and how it enables us to show up authentically and confidently in life’s most demanding moments.

Amy shares fascinating insights from her research, including how body language and self-affirmation techniques can help individuals tap into their most empowered selves—even in high-stakes situations like job interviews, public speaking, or competitive sports. Britain as an NFL Punt Returner talks through how Amy’s work has been directly applicable to his role as an NFL player. The conversation dives into the science behind power posing, the profound impact of aligning with your core values, and how to overcome self-doubt and imposter syndrome.

From practical strategies for building confidence to stories of real-world application, this episode offers listeners actionable tools to cultivate personal power and authenticity. Whether you’re preparing for a pivotal presentation, navigating a challenging conversation, or striving to perform under pressure, Amy’s insights will inspire you to approach life’s challenges with greater courage and connection.

Tune in for an engaging discussion that’s as practical as it is empowering, and discover how to bring your boldest self to your biggest challenges.

00:00 Introduction to Presence
05:10 Applying Presence in Various Scenarios
10:39 Preparation, Confidence & Self-Affirmation
30:38 Dealing with Hyper-Awareness and External Judgement
36:18 Exploring the Paradox of Nerves and Performance
39:06 The Importance of Personal Power
46:07 Power Posing: The Science and Application
55:02 Practical Tips for Cultivating Personal Power
01:03:13 The Broader Impact of Confidence and Self-Doubt
01:07:53 Affirming Others and Building Presence
01:12:30 Final Thoughts and Practical Advice

***
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Previewing ‘Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges’ by Amy Cuddy

In this preview episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, Stephen and Britain Covey set the stage for their upcoming interview with Amy Cuddy, the renowned social psychologist behind Presence. The brothers share their excitement about discussing a book that has transformed the way we think about confidence and personal power.

They explore the concept of “presence,” likening it to an inner strength that allows you to show up as your best self in critical moments—whether it’s a job interview, a high-stakes presentation, or a pivotal sports moment (like returning punts in the Super Bowl). Drawing from Cuddy’s groundbreaking research, they unpack how presence isn’t an innate quality but a skill that can be developed through intentional shifts in body language and mindset.

The episode touches on key themes from the book, including the science of power posing, the transformative idea of “fake it until you become it,” and the role of presence in overcoming imposter syndrome. Stephen and Britain also share the questions they’re eager to ask Amy in the full interview, including insights into her research process and her thoughts on applying presence in everyday life.

Join the conversation as the hosts dive into why Presence is a must-read for anyone looking to bring their boldest self to life’s biggest challenges.

00:00 Introduction to Presence
03:06 Practical Applications of Presence
06:27 Amy Cuddy's Background
08:32 Questions to explore

***

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In this episode of 'Paradigm Shifting Books,' hosts Stephen and Britain discuss their father Stephen M. R. Covey's book 'Trust and Inspire' and reflect on the previous episode with him. Highlights include real-world examples of trust and inspire leaders like NVIDIA's CEO Jensen Huang and Golden State Warriors' coach Steve Kerr. They also dive into practical applications of stewardship agreements and how these methods can revolutionize leadership both in corporate settings and at home.

00:00 Intro & NFL Update
05:11 Jensen Huang & Steve Kerr
12:22 Stewardship Agreements

Elements of a Stewardship Agreement: 
1 - Desired Results - What do we want to accomplish and why?
2 - Guidelines - Within what boundaries?
3 - Resources - What do we have to work with?
4 - Accountability - How will we know how we’re doing?
5 - Consequences - What are the implications if we do or don’t achieve the desired results? 

***

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Exploring the book ‘Trust and Inspire: How Truly Great Leaders Unleash Greatness in Others’ by Stephen M.R. Covey.

We have a leadership crisis today, where even though our world has changed drastically, our leadership style has not. Most organizations, teams, schools, and families today still operate from a model of “command and control,” focusing on hierarchies and compliance from people. But because of the changing nature of the world, the workforce, work itself, and the choices we have for where and how to work and live, this way of leading is drastically outdated.

Stephen M.R. Covey has made it his life’s work to understand trust in leadership and organizations. In his newest and most transformative book, Trust and Inspire, he offers a simple yet bold solution: to shift from this “command and control” model to a leadership style of “trust and inspire.” People don’t want to be managed; they want to be led. 

In this episode, Stephen M.R. Covey takes us on a deep dive into the origins and key paradigms of the ‘Trust and Inspire’ leadership model, contrasting it with the traditional ‘command and control’ approach. He shares powerful insights drawn from his experiences, highlighting the value of creating stewardship agreements and demonstrating how this new leadership style can transform our ability to lead. This conversation offers both practical advice and inspiration for aspiring leaders and anyone looking to enhance their interpersonal relationships.

00:00 Intro
01:24 Genesis of Trust & Inspire
05:36 Key paradigms of Trust & Inspire
13:34 What Trust & Inspire is not
26:52 Real world examples
43:18 Leadership vs. management   
53:59 Practical applications: stewardship agreements

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Previewing 'Trust and Inspire' by Stephen M.R. Covey - A Paradigm Shift in Leadership

Stephen & Britain preview 'Trust and Inspire' by Stephen M.R. Covey, a groundbreaking book on leadership. The hosts discuss the book's relevance in modern leadership, emphasizing its importance not just in corporate settings but also in family, sports, and educational environments. The book proposes a shift from the traditional 'command and control' style to a 'trust and inspire' model, essential in today's rapidly changing world. The episode also includes an announcement for a book giveaway. 

00:00 NFL pre-season update
02:24 Book preview: Trust and Inspire
07:02 The world has changed but our leadership style hasn’t
13:28 Excerpt introducing trust & inspire 

***

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