The Growth Project

Pressure is a part of life, so the question isn't whether we'll face it, but how we'll respond when it comes. In this episode, New York Mets pitcher Ryley Gilliam shares his story of rising quickly through the ranks of professional baseball, the challenges he's faced along the way, and what he's learned about managing pressure and navigating failure. His honest reflection offers valuable perspective not just for athletes, but for anyone striving to stay grounded when life's waves hit hard.

Leadership isn't about being the best at everything; it's about bringing out the best in others. In this episode, Dr. Drew Brannon sits down with Jeff Hull, Head Coach of the Furman University Women's Golf team, for a thoughtful conversation on what true leadership looks like. They explore the deeper layers of coaching and personal development, how to live into your full potential, and how to challenge and support others to do the same, both on and off the course.

"I always kept the end result, the long game, in my mind." – Kobe Bryant

In this episode, Drs. Katie Nichols and Cory Shaffer reflect on the legacy of Kobe Bryant and the mindset that defined him: the Mamba Mentality. More than a sports philosophy, Kobe's relentless pursuit of excellence and growth continues to inspire millions across disciplines. This conversation explores the core of that mentality—discipline, focus, resilience—and how we can all apply it to live and lead with greater purpose. #MambaOut

Why do you think the way you think and how much control do you really have over it? In this episode, Drs. Milt Lowder and Drew Brannon explore the inner workings of the mind and how our patterns of thought are shaped over time. They break down how mindset influences everything from performance to perspective, and how intentionally shifting the way we think can lead to lasting change in every area of life.

How do we keep getting better in our work and in our lives? In this episode, Dr. Drew Brannon sits down with Josh Brooks, Senior Deputy Athletic Director at the University of Georgia, to talk about freedom in our work and how to continue to learn, grow, and develop without short-circuiting the process. Josh's career path includes time working on football staffs headed by Nick Saban, Jimbo Fisher, and Mark Richt and also previously in athletic administration at various collegiate levels.

Transitions, whether planned or unexpected, can be challenging, disruptive, and even disorienting. In this episode, Drs. Drew Brannon and Cory Shaffer unpack the often-overlooked potential that lies within transitional moments. They explore how transitions can serve as powerful catalysts for growth and development, but only if we're willing to meet them with openness, curiosity, and intention. If you're navigating a change in your life or leadership, this conversation offers insight and encouragement for embracing what's next.

In today's episode, Drs. Drew Brannon and Milt Lowder explore the tension between what we desire—vulnerability, authenticity, and inner strength—and the discomfort required to achieve it. They outline three actionable steps that help us move closer to these powerful traits by embracing discomfort, opening ourselves up, and choosing growth over fear. This conversation invites listeners to live with greater freedom, purpose, and courage in a world that often rewards self-protection over self-awareness.

In this episode, Dr. Cory Shaffer and Dr. Katie Nichols explore the vital role of relationships in our pursuit of well-being and personal growth. Using Arnold Schwarzenegger's life as a powerful case study, they unpack how mentorship, connection, and support from others can carry us through both triumph and adversity. This conversation reminds us that we are not meant to go it alone and that investing in meaningful relationships may be one of the most powerful tools for building resilience and purpose.

In this episode, Dr. Katie Nichols sits down with Shimmy Gray-Miller, Assistant Women's Basketball Coach at Clemson University, for a powerful conversation about the lasting impact we have on one another. Coach Shimmy shares how authentic relationships form the foundation of a flourishing life, both on and off the court. This episode is a reminder that success isn't just about performance... it's about people, purpose, and the connections that shape who we become.

In the final installment of our gratitude series, Drs. Drew Brannon and Milt Lowder respond to real questions from listeners—exploring how gratitude intersects with success, failure, trauma, and resilience. They discuss how to find strength in gratitude even when life is hard, and how this mindset can help us process pain, build perspective, and stay grounded. This honest and hopeful conversation is a powerful conclusion to the series.