Today we sit down with Brett McDermott, the voice behind Persistence Playbook, to explore 10 powerful affirmations designed to sharpen focus, defeat internal resistance, and help you finally get things done, without waiting for motivation to show up first.

In this solo episode, Brett walks us through affirmations rooted in discipline, action, and clarity. Each one speaks directly to the entrepreneur, the builder, the thinker, and the dreamer who knows their success is waiting on the other side of discomfort. This episode is less about the hype and more about building up that grit muscle; because perfection is a trap, and progress should always be the goal.

Whether you’re navigating burnout, building something from scratch, or simply trying to stay consistent, this episode offers a mindset reset. Into just why your time is your most valuable currency.

When you master the internal game, the results always follow.

Takeaways

• Affirmations can significantly boost productivity and focus.
• Taking action creates momentum and leads to motivation.
• Resistance is a sign of growth and should be embraced.
• Time is a valuable resource that should be protected.
• Clarity comes from taking action, not from overthinking.

Today we sit down with Scott D. Clary, former C-suite executive turned podcast powerhouse with tens of millions of downloads under his belt to talk about what really separates high performers from highlighters.

We unpack the hidden cost of information overload and how even the smartest minds can get stuck in the cycle of constant consumption. We get into the difference between learning and doing, and how simplifying your day might be the key to scaling your life. From managing your energy like capital to designing your schedule for actual creativity.

We explore the flaws in the self-help space, why personal relationships are your greatest leverage point, and how accountability can shift you from trying to executing. There’s a strategy in here for when resistance shows up and a reminder that it’s often not a mindset issue, but a systems one.

If you’ve been feeling like you’re one insight away from making real moves, this might be the one. Not because it tells you what to do, but because it helps you finally do something with what you already know.

Takeaways

• Success is often boring and uncomplicated; it requires hard work and persistence.
• The self-help industry often promotes the idea that you are not enough as you are.
• Understanding your energy levels can significantly impact productivity.
• You should audit your circle and surround yourself with supportive people.
• Creating accountability systems can help overcome resistance to work.

Today we sit down with Chad Foster, the first blind executive to graduate from Harvard Business School’s leadership program, a renowned speaker, and a strategist behind billions in revenue. But his story starts with something most of us take for granted. Sight.

In his early 20s, Chad lost his vision to a genetic condition. What followed wasn’t just a comeback, it was a complete reframing of how to move through the world. In this episode, Chad shares how adversity became his advantage, and how losing his sight gave him a new way to see his potential.

We unpack the emotional weight of accepting his first guide dog, the quiet strength behind gratitude, and how visualization still plays a role in success and the five pillars of resilience needed to accomplish it.

This isn’t about blind optimism it’s about precise, practiced resilience. The kind that helps you adapt in real-time, take small actions that compound over time, and rewrite your own story even when life takes away your blueprint.

Takeaways

• Gratitude is essential for happiness and success.

• Listening with intent is a lost art in today's society.

• Resilience is about adapting quickly to change.
• You choose your response to life's challenges.
• The stories we tell ourselves shape our reality.

• It's important to differentiate between urgent and important tasks.
• Sustainability in work-life is about finding a rhythm.

Today we sit down with host Brett McDermott to explore one of the most quietly persistent challenges we all face...

SELF-DOUBT!

No matter how successful you are or how far along your journey you may be, self-doubt still finds a way in. In this episode, Brett dives deep into why that feeling exists, how it can actually signal growth, and what to do when it starts to hold you back. While reframing it as something you build, through action, consistency, and self-trust.

If you’re new here, expect one of Brett’s signature breakdowns, using his iconic list approach that longtime listeners know delivers clarity, strategy, and action. So if self-doubt’s been creeping in lately, this is your episode.

Takeaways

• Self-doubt is a normal part of the human experience.

• Separate feelings from facts to combat self-doubt.
• Build an evidence bank of your past successes.

• Reframe your inner critic as a challenge to overcome.

• See self-doubt as a sign of growth and progress.

Today we sit down with host Brett McDermott to explore the power of manifestation and how to truly align your mindset, emotions, and actions to create the life you want.

In this inspiring and practical episode, Brett breaks down the art and science of manifestation, going beyond the buzzwords to deliver real, actionable steps for personal growth and success.

From getting crystal clear on your goals to harnessing the power of visualization, affirmations, and aligned action, Brett lays out a roadmap to turn your dreams into reality.

You’ll learn why emotional state is everything, how to identify and clear limiting beliefs, and why detachment from specific outcomes can actually help you stay flexible and motivated. Plus, Brett shares how journaling, daily mindset practices, and surrounding yourself with uplifting energy can supercharge your manifestation journey.

Whether you're new to manifestation or looking to deepen your practice, this episode is packed with insights to help you build self-belief, maintain momentum, and celebrate every step of your growth.Takeaways

• Manifestation is about aligning mindset, emotions, and actions.
• Vague goals lead to vague results; clarity is essential.
• Visualization should be detailed and emotionally engaging.
• Affirmations must feel true and empowering.
• Daily journaling anchors intentions and reinforces goals

Today we sit down with Jake Thompson, world-renowned keynote speaker and author on developing and leveraging a competitive mindset, to discuss all things personal growth, self-discipline, mindset mastery, and how to compete with yourself daily to win long-term.

In this episode, Jake breaks down what it really means to compete every day, not just in your work, but in parenting, wellness, leadership, and every aspect of life that requires focus, consistency, and accountability. We explore how to defeat internal resistance, push through when motivation fades, and take daily action even when you don’t feel like it.

Together, Brett and Jake dive into practical ways to build a healthy inner competition, minimize digital distractions (yes, grayscale mode makes an appearance), and set long-term goals that keep you anchored in purpose.

Whether you’re a high performer, a lifelong learner, or someone just trying to win your morning, you’ll walk away with tactical strategies for building self-discipline, creating momentum, and stacking small daily wins that compound into massive success.

This episode is your competitive edge!

Takeaways

• Competing with yourself is the key to personal growth.
• Comparison can hinder progress and lead to complacency.
• Setting clear targets and accountability is essential.
• Your environment influences your ability to compete effectively.
• Intentionality is crucial for improvement.
• Defining the game you want to play helps focus efforts.
• Reflection on daily performance aids in growth.

We’re revisiting one of our most electrifying conversations as we head into Q2, because it’s the perfect time for a mindset tune‑up. Evan Carmichael, the powerhouse you know from YouTube, joins us to break down the strategies that turn fear into fuel and belief into results.

If Q1 left you feeling like you’re behind on your goals or just… a little wobbly on the “what’s next?” this conversation is the clarity check you didn’t know you needed. Evan dives into how to tackle fear (even the kind that shows up in disguise as procrastination), and how believing in yourself isn’t some fluffy cliché, but a real driver of success.

And if your calendar currently looks like a dumpster fire, Evan breaks down his strategy of theming your days, so you’re not just “busy,” you’re intentional. So tune in, take notes, and get ready to re-enter the ring, with belief, boldness, and a much better calendar.

Today we sit down with Mahfuz Chowdhury, a three-time TEDx speaker and renowned expert in the art of resilience. But this isn’t just another conversation about bouncing back, it’s about leveling up. Resilience isn’t just about weathering storms; it’s about what you do every single day to make sure you’re not the same person who walked into them.

In this episode, we challenge everything you think you know about perseverance. We break down why resilience isn’t just about grit but about strategy, how to stretch without snapping, push forward without burning out, and refine your “why” so it evolves with you. Mahfouz unpacks the hidden power of mindset shifts, the necessity of embracing discomfort, and why the smallest first step is often the key to everything.

If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re on the right path or wondered why success feels just out of reach, this episode is for you. The right moves aren’t always the obvious ones, but once you learn how to build resilience the right way, the game changes.

Takeaways

• Resilience can be practiced daily, not just in tough times.
• Challenges are necessary for growth and achievement.
• Embracing firsts can lead to extraordinary moments in life.

Today, we sit down with David Marlow, a seasoned business leader and personal transformation expert, to explore the art of uncovering one’s deeper purpose. This conversation isn’t just about passion, it’s about aligning who you are with what you do in a way that feels inevitable.

David shares his own journey of discovery, revealing how moments of uncertainty became the foundation for clarity. We break down the subtle yet powerful shifts that lead to a more fulfilled life, from refining your personal philosophy to recognizing the patterns that already shape your daily existence.

This episode is about more than just direction, it’s about essence. The nuances of identity, purpose, and fulfillment aren’t as elusive as they seem. Sometimes, it’s about listening differently, seeing what’s already there, and cutting through the noise that keeps us distracted.

Takeaways

• Understanding Ikigai helps in making life decisions.

• Reflecting on past experiences can reveal clues to your Ikigai.

• It's important to reduce noise in your life to discover your true self. Eliminating noise can lead to better health and relationships.

• Encouraging others can create a supportive environment for growth.

Today we sit down with Frankie Russo, serial entrepreneur, angel investor, and sought-after keynote speaker, to dive into the power of embracing what makes you different. At the heart of this conversation? A simple yet powerful mantra: Don’t flinch.

Throughout our conversation, we explore how embracing your uniqueness fuels both personal and professional growth, why the fear of failure is the biggest roadblock to success, and how “loving your weird” is the key to unlocking your genius. Frankie shares his journey from entrepreneur to keynote speaker, revealing how finding and leveraging your why can create real-world impact.

We also dive into the power of deep listening in uncovering new opportunities and increasing revenue, the importance of self-imposed deadlines to break through stagnation, and why resilience is everything when it comes to pushing forward. The path to unlocking your genius isn’t easy, but it’s worth it. And above all, don’t flinch.

Takeaways

• Embracing uniqueness can lead to personal and professional growth.
• Fear of failure is the primary barrier to growth.
• Loving your weird helps unlock individual genius.
• Authenticity in leadership fosters a culture of innovation.
• Creating a safe space for employees to express their weirdness is crucial.