Staying Power

Episode 088: “Learner-Driven Kids, Life-Ready Adults”

Branching off of last week’s episode, JDK and Ashley are joined by Chris Wolf, co-founder of Pathfinders, a learner-driven school in Sammamish, WA that is part of the Acton Academy network. In a wide-ranging conversation, they explore why structured, Socratic-focused learning helps kids become resilient problem-solvers familiar with failures and successes, and how those same practices translate to healthier adult life. They also address the philosophical foundations of Acton, discuss how parents and home life are keys to success, and identify some important ways in which Pathfinders helps kids develop how to Do, how to Learn, and how to Be. Expect practical takeaways for families, educators, and any grown-up who’s wondering if there are better ways forward. 

Be sure to check out these links to items mentioned on today’s show: 

Pathfinders - Sammamish, WA:

https://actonpathfinders.org/

“Courage to Grow” by Laura Sandefer: 

https://a.co/d/cICSySs

“The Hero With a Thousand Faces” by Joseph Campbell: 

https://a.co/d/iWE4eRw

Also, be sure to check out and subscribe to the new Staying Power YouTube channel: 

https://www.youtube.com/@StayingPower-TSPN

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Episode 087 - Fail Better: The Case for Small Stumbles

Failure gets a bad rap. But what if failure — especially small, everyday stumbles — is one of the best tools we have for building strength and confidence? In this episode, JD Wyneken and Ashley Knebel explore why our brains are wired to avoid mistakes at all costs, why that avoidance often holds us back, and how embracing “micro-fails” can actually supercharge resilience. With stories, laughter, and science, they show how tripping up can be the best way to move forward.

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Episode 086: “Holding the ‘Old Me’ Hostage”

We’ve all done it — holding on to the old “version” of someone we know… or of ourselves. Maybe it’s your cousin who you still picture as the awkward teen, or the way you define yourself by that job you left 10 years ago. In this episode, JDK and Ashley explain why our brains are wired to cling to outdated stories about people (including ourselves), how this habit creates unnecessary emotional friction, and why learning to allow for change can transform relationships, boost self-esteem, and help us enjoy life more in the moment. With a mix of science, real-life examples, and a few laughs, you’ll learn how to hit “refresh” on your mental snapshots and embrace the ever-updating nature of being human.

Also, be sure to check out and subscribe to the new Staying Power YouTube channel: 

https://www.youtube.com/@StayingPower-TSPN

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Episode 085: "Reclaiming Real: How to Keep Tech from Replacing Human Connection"

In a world that’s more connected than ever, why do so many of us feel… disconnected?

This week on Staying Power, JDK and Ashley explore how the convenience of technology—while incredibly helpful—can quietly erode our most vital human connections. From texting instead of talking to letting screens fill the silence, they examine how our habits around tech may be rewiring how we relate to ourselves and others. How can we use tech but not have it use us up? Hear what your hosts - and the science! - says, and get some practical tips you can use right away! 

Also, be sure to check out and subscribe to the new Staying Power YouTube channel: 

https://www.youtube.com/@StayingPower-TSPN

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Episode 084: “Hiring a Coach Isn’t Weak - It’s a Power Move”

So… you’re thinking about hiring a coach—but a little voice in your head whispers, “Shouldn’t I already have this figured out?” This week on Staying Power, JDK and Ashley unpack the myth that coaching is for the broken. From business to life, leadership to health, they explore how modern coaching builds emotional intelligence, strengthens nervous system regulation, and helps people live more aligned, empowered lives. Get a breakdown of what different types of coaches actually do, what to look for in a good one, and why the best performers in the world all have coaches on their team. Bonus: practical steps to find the coach that’s right for you—without the overwhelm.

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Episode 083: “The Power of Asking, ‘How Are You?’”

Every day, we ask (or are asked) “How are you?” How often, though, are we willing or ready to hear or share the REAL answer in that moment? If you’re like most people, it’s not as often as we think or want to believe. This week, JDK and Ashley explore the potential power in asking and answering this key human question - and discuss how we can intentionally get and give so much more connection out of this question!

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Episode 082: “Holding Space For Growth”

When our most important relationships hit instability or time periods of imbalance / inequality, we can often freeze or overreact with concern. Instead, how can we find and cultivate our ability to “hold space” for others to move towards growth and re-connection with us? And what is it about ourselves that might be in order for us to address, too? This week, Ashley and JD share their own experiences on both sides of such imbalances and times of difficulty. Both learned and applied important lessons in their lives. What might help you find those in your own? Settle in for a good listen and find out!

Also, be sure to check out and subscribe to the new Staying Power YouTube channel: 

https://www.youtube.com/@StayingPower-TSPN

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Episode 081: “More Life Lessons from Unrequited Love” 

After a great deal of positive responses to last week’s episode, JD and Ashley continue to discuss the challenges AND the profound gifts we can experience in an unrequited love situation. If we make it less about what we are not getting from someone else and more about what we can learn about our own need, desires, perceptions, and assumptions about love, life, and ourselves, the better we will grow in our capacity to TRULY give and experience love in our lives. A good starting point? The short book, “The Way to Love” by the late Anthony De Mello…

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/138878.The_Way_to_Love

Also, be sure to check out and subscribe to the new Staying Power YouTube channel: 

https://www.youtube.com/@StayingPower-TSPN

[email protected]

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Episode 080: “Loving At Arm’s Length”

Loving people as best we can is a goal most humans shoot for, but in many cases this can be tougher than we want due to various circumstances. This week, Ashley and JD wade into the challenges involved in navigating love we have for others when it is not reciprocated as we’d prefer. While challenging, such situations actually offer a perhaps unparalleled opportunity to truly learn what love really is and is not.

Also, be sure to check out and subscribe to the new Staying Power YouTube channel: 

https://www.youtube.com/@StayingPower-TSPN

[email protected]

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Episode 079: “Reframing Beliefs That No Longer Serve Us” 

Often we hold on to old beliefs for so long that we don’t realize that we are suffering because of them. Why do we do that? And how can we make changes to those beliefs and get more ease and peace and purpose in our lives? That’s the subject of this week’s episode, and Ashley and JD have a lot to share, ponder, and advise about it. The good news? It doesn’t take a lot to start making those changes! 

Also, be sure to check out and subscribe to the new Staying Power YouTube channel: 

https://www.youtube.com/@StayingPower-TSPN

[email protected]

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