“You Can’t Control What Happens—But You Can Control How You Respond”

Core message: We spend enormous amounts of energy trying to control circumstances, outcomes, and other people. Happiness and peace begin when we recognize what belongs to us—and what doesn’t. Stoicism teaches us to focus on our response. Scripture takes us further: we can release what we cannot control because God is in control.

In this episode, Georgia Miller, founder of Rooted Sport Psychology, shares insights on mental resilience, handling pressure, and integrating faith into performance. She discusses practical strategies for overcoming negative thoughts, embracing failure, and finding purpose in every role, whether on the field or in life.

Key Topics

Resilience as a skill that can be learned and developed

Analogies between sports scoring and handling failure in life

The importance of faith and spiritual grounding in performance

Strategies for managing fear and negative thoughts

The value of humility and perspective in sports and life

Practical tools for overcoming anxiety and pressure

The role of curiosity and interest in personal growth

Living out your gifts and spiritual calling in everyday life

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Georgia Miller and her background

02:07 The importance of removing sport labels and applying lessons to life

04:27 Reframing failure through sports analogies like tennis and baseball

07:27 Allowing room for mistakes and building resilience

09:09 Fear of failure versus wasted potential

11:48 Navigating fear and building courage

14:01 Evaluating fear through the analogy of climbing

15:38 Naming and rationalizing fear to diminish its power

16:38 Feeling called versus feeling qualified

18:01 Pizza versus tacos: a fun personal question

22:54 The value of playing from the bench and embracing different roles

29:17 The integration of faith and sports performance

33:30 Small daily habits and consistency in faith and mindset

35:34 Addressing negative thinking and practicing productive thoughts

40:10 Simple tactics for breaking negative thought loops

44:25 Managing pressure through perspective and physical routines

50:29 The story of Rudy and owning your role

51:14 Parting words: small acts of kindness and faith in action

Instagram: @rootedsportpsych

Tiktok: @rooted.sport.psy

Website: www.rootedsportpsychcoach.com 

In this episode, Phil Januszewski shares insights from his new book Too Damn Happy, exploring how small daily choices and micro connections can lead to a more joyful and fulfilled life. Jeff Forrester and Phil discuss the importance of authenticity, the power of micro moments, and practical steps to cultivate happiness.

Key Topics

The importance of micro connections and small moments

How to identify what lights us up and build it into daily life

The role of authenticity and vulnerability in happiness

The impact of surrounding ourselves with driven, positive people

Practical strategies for slowing down and appreciating the present

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Phil Januszewski and his new book Too Damn Happy

02:00 Phil's life pivot from teaching to full-time speaking

05:06 Lessons learned from years of cultivating a speaking career

11:04 The motivation behind writing Too Damn Happy

17:05 Understanding what makes us light up and how to find joy

26:04 The significance of micro connections and everyday moments

33:02 The importance of surrounding yourself with driven, positive people

39:46 The power of personal choice in creating a joyful life

42:07 Closing thoughts and how to get the book

Kristen Woodman on perfecting the process, handling pressure, and building resilient athletes

Jeff Forrester talks with Kristen Woodman, a volleyball mental skills coach and trainer, about how confidence is built through process, not perfection.

Kristen shares how faith, self-awareness, messy action, and clear standards help athletes perform under pressure and become stronger people beyond sports.

In this episode, Jeff and Kristen focus on how lessons from volleyball translate directly to life, leadership, parenting, and work. They also dig into communication, expectations, and why character matters more than outcomes.

Key topics

• Kristen explains her core mission: helping athletes build unshakable confidence so they can perform under pressure and stop letting mistakes control their game or life.
• The conversation centers on James 1:2-4 and how finding joy in trials shaped Kristen’s mindset, faith, and coaching philosophy.
• In this episode, Kristen shares her idea of “perfecting the process” instead of pursuing perfection, especially for perfectionist athletes.
• They discuss how fear of failure can be worked through with what Kristen calls “commit to the flip,” a mindset for taking action before you feel ready.
• Jeff and Kristen talk about how a lack of communication creates unnecessary drama between athletes, coaches, and parents.
• Kristen shares how coaches can help athletes by rewarding effort, aggression, communication, and character instead of just outcomes.
• The episode explores how expectations of other people often create frustration, including in families, teams, and workplaces.
• Kristen describes a season where shifting her team from outcome focus to controllables, character, and culture transformed the group.
• They discuss why self-awareness is essential, and how safe feedback environments help athletes and adults grow.
• Kristen emphasizes that talent matters, but character, discipline, and being a good teammate matter more in the long run.

Timestamps

00:00 - Kristen Woodman and the mission behind mental skills coaching01:27 - Why sports mindset translates directly to life03:39 - The cost of unclear expectations in coaching and parenting05:38 - What athletes feel on the bench and why feedback matters07:08 - Rewarding aggression, effort, and process instead of fear10:02 - Perfecting the process instead of chasing perfection13:05 - Taking messy action before everything feels ready16:22 - Commit to the flip: working through fear of failure20:19 - Called versus qualified and how faith shapes direction23:18 - Why perfectionists get stuck in the mundane and the long game26:10 - Changing a team by shifting from outcome to controllables28:07 - Building culture with 9-10 standards and the Hard Hat Award31:02 - Admitting mistakes as a coach and modeling vulnerability33:24 - Writing down personal standards and living by core values37:09 - Who you become matters more than whether you go pro39:05 - Knowing your enemy, your triggers, and your mindset weak spots43:43 - Using self-reflection to identify what was exposed45:10 - The power of vulnerability in small-group coaching47:28 - Why the higher you go, the less feedback you get50:01 - Going back to the basics instead of reinventing the wheel53:20 - Serve receive, boring fundamentals, and one-percent growth56:42 - Character, we before me, and what pressure reveals58:09 - Choosing character over reputation and scoreboard pressure62:47 - Teaching athletes how to manage conflict and hard conversations65:38 - Checking expectations of other people and accepting reality67:30 - Why families need supplemental coaching when a system is missing

Notable quotes

“Perfecting the process is the goal.”

“Commit to the flip.”

“Be immersed in growing, not immersed in the outcome.”

Jeff shares his emotional experience of dropping his son off at college, exploring the feelings, spiritual reflections, and lessons learned during this significant life moment.

Key Topics

Emotional experience of college drop-off

Spiritual reflections and Bible verses

Lessons on growth and change

Family dynamics and support

The significance of Psalm 121

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the emotional experience of dropping off Deuce

02:23 The significance of Psalm 121 in this moment

05:53 The drive from Orlando to Mars Hill and family moments

12:00 First impressions of Deuce's dorm and campus

16:16 Moving into the dorm and the challenges faced

20:14 The emotional farewell and feelings of loss

32:36 The moment of leaving and the overwhelming emotions

42:37 Reflections and encouragement for others in similar situations

In this episode, Jeff Forrester delves into how seeking comfort can silently hold us back from reaching our full potential. He shares personal insights, biblical references, and practical questions to challenge listeners to evaluate the role comfort plays in their lives and the importance of stepping outside of it for growth.Key topics

• The personal struggle with maintaining physical health and the role comfort plays in weight and fitness.
• How comfort acts as an obstacle to fulfilling God’s calling.
• The concept that resistance and hardship are necessary for growth and strength.
• Biblical examples, such as the Israelites' desire to return to Egypt, illustrating the allure of comfort.
• The significance of the J-curve in skill and personal development.
• Jesus’ example of choosing sacrifice and obedience over convenience.
• Identifying and challenging the triggers that lead to seeking comfort rather than growth.
• Practical questions to evaluate discomfort and resistance in daily life.
• The importance of discipline, obedience, and faith in overcoming comfort’s pull.
• Scripture references emphasizing endurance, character, and hope through challenges.

Timestamps:00:00 - Welcome and introduction to the theme: the hidden costs of comfort
00:28 - Personal update after attending a convention and reflections on physical health
00:58 - The main question: is your life preparing you for the calling you believe in?
01:28 - The relationship between physical and emotional/spiritual wellbeing
01:57 - Is comfort always a blessing or can it be an obstacle?
03:53 - How comfort influences decision making and triggers during stress or frustration
05:01 - The small choices that reflect our attitude towards comfort, like taking stairs vs. escalator
06:00 - Recognizing times when comfort leads to inaction, like resting instead of training
06:57 - Posing the powerful question: what if comfort is stealing your potential?
07:13 - The importance of discipline and the dangers of seeking easy paths
08:13 - The biblical example of Jesus resisting temptation’s easy route
09:13 - The role of resistance in growth, as exemplified by biblical and life challenges
10:18 - The significance of resistance in physical training and spiritual growth
11:18 - Biblical story of Israelites seeking comfort over calling and the danger of reverting back to old habits
12:16 - Understanding the J-curve in skill progression and overcoming difficult dips
13:11 - How excuses and seeking comfort delay progress and the importance of facing challenges
14:11 - Jesus’ example of sacrifice, obedience, and daily commitment to the cross
15:08 - Reflections on personal and universal struggles with hardship and comparison
16:07 - Questions for self-examination: uncomfortable conversations, disciplines avoided, and delayed dreams
17:36 - Trusting God amid discomfort and the importance of prayerful reflection
18:10 - The contrast between discipline and comfort; faith and obedience as the path to growth
18:39 - Biblical encouragement: endurance, character, and hope through suffering
19:06 - Personal call to action: acknowledging the importance of health and overcoming excuses
19:48 - Reflection on personal history and the capacity for change when motivated
20:18 - Closing thoughts and encouragement to embrace discomfort as part of a purposeful life

Navigating Life Pivots and Faith: An Inspiring Conversation with Charlie Benton.

Explore how life’s unexpected turns can shape us, emphasizing the importance of resilience, faith, and intentional living. Join Jeff Forrester as he chats with Charlie Benton about embracing change, making meaningful connections, and prioritizing family and faith over career pursuits.In this episode:

• Charlie Benton shares his journey from law enforcement to managing editor, highlighting key pivots and lessons learned
• The significance of prayer and seeking closed doors in God's plan
• Practical ways to serve others through small acts of kindness and community involvement
• The value of transferable skills and how diverse experiences enrich any career
• The importance of prioritizing faith, family, and personal growth in making life decisions
• How to recognize and respond to God's guidance during times of change
• Strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome and embracing new opportunities
• The power of resilience and perseverance in the face of failure
• Building authentic relationships with neighbors and creating a supportive community

• 00:00 - Introduction and podcast theme: life pivots and faith
• 02:15 - Charlie discusses his background and time in law enforcement
• 05:29 - The importance of feeling called versus qualified
• 08:26 - Defining greatness through faith and family
• 10:51 - Practical steps to craft a life of service
• 13:21 - The significance of small acts of kindness
• 16:16 - Building community and neighborhood connection
• 22:43 - Charlie’s pivot from police detective to managing editor
• 25:02 - Navigating imposter syndrome and God’s grace
• 29:11 - Making career pivots amidst adversity
• 43:37 - Recognizing God's guidance through closed doors
• 46:41 - Trusting God's timing in life transitions
• 50:46 - Living authentic faith amidst flaws
• 55:40 - Practical stewardship and trusting God’s provision
• 58:02 - The importance of intentional decisions aligned with purpose
• 60:36 - Balancing work, family, and faith
• 62:20 -

Connecting with Charlie Benton and where to follow his work

Field Ethos

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In this episode, Jeff Forrester interviews Tim Cokely about overcoming imposter syndrome, building resilient teams, and the six pivots for leadership success. Tim shares personal stories, leadership insights, and details about his upcoming documentary, inspiring listeners to pursue greatness with faith and perseverance.

Key Topics

Imposter syndrome and how to overcome it

The six pivots: effort, discipline, perseverance, relationships, adversity, purpose

The importance of resilience and perseverance in leadership

Personal stories of success and failure

The role of faith and purpose in achieving greatness

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

02:24 Tim Cokely's Background and New Book

04:07 Resilience vs. Perseverance

05:40 Making Difficult Decisions

07:21 Proving Belonging and Imposter Syndrome

08:55 Called or Qualified?

09:50 Pizza or Tacos? Fun Warm-up

11:37 Defining Greatness

13:06 Overcoming Adversity and Big Dreams

16:46 Tim Cokely's Journey and The Imposter

19:10 Helping Others Rise and Leadership Impact

22:10 Spiritual Warfare and Imposter Syndrome

28:47 The Six Pivots: Effort, Discipline, Perseverance

32:53 Grounding in Faith and Purpose

44:21 Final Thoughts and Legacy

Find out more about Tim at www.timcokely.com

Join Jeff Forrester and Coach Sara Parson as they explore the journey of living purposefully, building a personal brand rooted in faith, and overcoming fears to fulfill God's calling. Discover practical insights on resilience, listening to the Holy Spirit, and embracing your true self.

Key Topics

• Living out your purpose through faith
• Building a personal brand rooted in Christian values
• The importance of resilience over talent
• Listening to the Holy Spirit for guidance
• Overcoming fears and negative thoughts
• The concept of purpose partners and mat carriers
• Practical steps to align your life with God's calling
• The role of surrender and obedience in personal growth

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and First Impressions

05:19 The Journey of Content Creation

08:16 Defining Greatness and Purpose

11:26 The Role of Faith in Daily Life

14:43 Becoming the Brand God Wants You to Be

25:30 Embracing Christ-like Attitudes

26:19 Surrendering to God's Will

27:34 Identifying True Self and Purpose

28:21 Separating Identity from Roles

30:30 Establishing Non-Negotiables in Life

32:36 Living Out Intentionality and Integrity

35:32 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Potential

38:31 The Importance of Sharing Your Story

41:19 Branding Through Joy and Faith

44:33 Living Authentically and Loving Others

48:12 2 edition PWTG outro (1).mp4

FOLLOW HER ON IG @SARAPARSON29

In this episode, Tamika Newman shares insights on mental resilience, goal setting, and overcoming fear of failure, all rooted in her athletic and coaching journey. Discover practical strategies to elevate your mindset and performance, whether in sports or life.

Key Topics

Mental resilience and growth mindset

Managing mistakes and self-talk

Setting goals and owning performance

The importance of grace and positivity

Transition from athlete to coach and author

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background

04:56 Embracing Failure and Growth Mindset

08:01 No Excuses Mentality

10:56 Defining Greatness

13:54 Tamika's Journey in Sports and Coaching

17:08 Creating Opportunities for Young Athletes

22:38 Returning to Coaching and Writing a Workbook

27:05 The Importance of Goal Setting and Mistake Management

32:48 Empowering Athletes Through Mistake Management

39:01 Building Resilience and Positive Mindset

45:58 Finding the Book and Connecting with Tamika

47:49 2 edition PWTG outro (1).mp4