The Mindset and Self-Mastery Show

“Follow what lights you up, no matter how crazy, how wild-haired any of it may seem.”

In this episode, Nick explores the concept of purpose and its significance in our lives. He discusses the dictionary definition of purpose, the meaning of purpose in our lives, and the fact that we each have our own unique purpose on this planet. Listen in as he unpacks the importance of contribution and how it is intertwined with purpose but how we’ve been taught, or shamed, into thinking our purpose is too small if it’s not this massive humanity changing effort. Purpose is about showing up authentically and contributing to the world, irrespective of scale, and understanding the difference between a calling and a whim can truly help us uncover our purpose.

What to listen for:

Purpose is about contributing to the world, being authentically oneself, and making a difference, regardless of scale.

Identifying your purpose requires introspection, unlearning societal expectations, and discerning between true callings and fleeting desires or whims.

Embracing what lights you up and pursuing it passionately can lead to a more fulfilling life.

Living a purposeful life involves continual self-discovery, adaptation, and alignment with one’s core values.

“Purpose has contribution built into it, and being able to contribute to your community, the sphere around you, the people that you’re with.”

Purpose isn’t just about personal fulfillment; it’s about how you can positively impact the world around you. It involves contributing to your community, whether locally or globally.

True purpose often involves serving others and making a meaningful difference in the lives of those around you.

While personal success is important, true purpose goes beyond individual achievements. It’s about how you can positively impact the lives of others and create a ripple effect of goodness in your community and beyond.

Understanding how you can uniquely contribute to your community and the world is key to discovering your purpose.

“Being able to unlearn everything that you’ve been taught from the world that tells you you should be a certain way is going to be a major step in that.”

Why we must question societal norms and how many of our beliefs and expectations about ourselves are shaped by societal norms and expectations.

Recognizing and challenging rigid standards and stereotypes is necessary for breaking free from self-imposed limitations.

Embracing your individuality means accepting yourself fully, including aspects that may deviate from societal norms.

How breaking free from societal expectations allows you to express yourself authentically and pursue paths that resonate with your true desires and values.

“Callings are clear, they’re deeply rooted, they may not be 100% clear all the time, but they’re there.”

While it may not always be 100% clear, there is a deep-rooted sense of direction and purpose guiding you.

Our calling emanates from a place of inner knowing or intuition. Even when faced with uncertainty or doubt, there is an underlying certainty or conviction that propels you forward on your chosen path.

Callings reflect who you are at your essence and resonate deeply with your soul’s purpose.

The clarity of your calling may evolve over time as you gain new insights, experiences, and perspectives.

Paying attention to synchronicities, gut feelings, and signs from the universe can help you recognize and affirm your calling. These subtle cues often serve as guideposts along the journey of self-discovery and purpose realization.

About Nick McGowan

I’m Nick McGowan, entrepreneur, podcaster, and mental health advocate, and I've been on a 20+ year journey of personal development, learning to master my mindset, emotions, and the art of living with purpose.

As a Mindset and Self-Mastery Mentor, I work with ambitious men and women who want to live their most authentic and joyous life, by helping them master their mindset, emotional awareness,

“What can you teach the world? What do you like? What’s in alignment? That is your unique superpower.”

In this episode, Nick speaks with Dr. Esther Zeledon to discuss the importance of purpose, mission, and vision in creating meaningful change in the world. There’s a major emphasis on listening to oneself and breaking free from societal expectations and limiting beliefs. Dr. Zeledon shares her own journey of discovering her purpose and disrupting systems that don’t align with her values and provides advice for those who want to break free from the system and live a more purposeful life.

What to listen for:

Discovering and living one’s purpose is essential for creating meaningful change in the world.

Listening to oneself is crucial for personal and collective growth.

Breaking free from societal expectations and limiting beliefs is necessary to live a purposeful life.

Aligning one’s actions with their values and disrupting systems that don’t serve them is empowering.

Seeking out community and surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals is important for support and inspiration.

Identifying and utilizing one’s unique superpower can make a positive impact in the world.

Systems, such as religion and education, can shape our beliefs and values.

“The matrix has told us we can only choose one. But that’s not true. That’s a limiting belief.”

Why we should question societal norms and the belief that one must follow a single path or career

individuals are capable of pursuing multiple interests and talents, rejecting the notion of a singular focus

Recognizing and overcoming limiting beliefs can lead to greater personal and professional fulfillment

Encourages exploring diverse opportunities rather than feeling confined to one predefined path

“I found, I interpreted my purpose to work within the system and learn the systems and advance in the American dream checklist matrix.”

We can enjoy the journey of understanding and working within established systems to achieve success

How one’s purpose can be shaped by external pressures and societal expectations

Exploring a critical view of the traditional “American dream” and its associated checklist of achievements (marriage, house, car, income)

How systemic structures influence personal goals and life choices, often dictating a standard path to follow

Over time, one’s understanding of purpose and success can evolve, especially when reflecting on how these are defined by societal norms

“We need to teach people how to listen to themselves.”

Exploring the importance of fostering self-awareness and understanding one’s own needs and desires

How we can rely on inner guidance rather than external validation or societal pressures

The importance of self-discovery and listening to one’s inner voice in making authentic decisions

Unpacking a holistic approach to personal development, where listening to oneself is as important as academic or professional training

About Dr. Esther Zeledón

Dr. Esther Zeledón is a master of making dreams work and embodies the resilient spirit of a Latina immigrant. Her rich and diverse background has been the cornerstone of her trailblazing work as a life coach, speaker, workshop facilitator, former international diplomat, and scientist. With a commitment to inclusivity, Dr. Zeledón has transformed the lives of thousands worldwide, bridging gaps across communities, corporations, and countries. Drawing from her unique experiences and insights, she has crafted a powerful formula for balanced success and brilliant productivity, empowering everyone to envision and manifest their limitless life.

www.beactchange.com

www.linkedin.com/in/estherzeledon

www.instagram.com/be.act.change

Resources:

Interested in starting your own podcast or need help with one you already have? Send Nick an email or schedule a time to discuss your podcast today!

Thank you for listening!

Please subscribe on iTunes and give us a 5-Star review!

“We focus on queer community, non-monogamy, sexual health, and sexual positivity.”

In this episode, Nick speaks with Ann Russo, a psychotherapist and entrepreneur, about her work with diverse communities and her experience with religious shame and sexuality. They discuss the intersection of religion and LGBTQ+ issues, the harm caused by religious shame, and the importance of understanding different perspectives. Listen in as they unpack the impact of shame and the importance of empathy and communication in healing from trauma, as well as explore the intersection of sexual orientation and religiosity and the struggle faced by individuals who experience shame in these areas.

What to listen for:

Religious shame and the rejection of LGBTQ+ individuals by some Christian communities can lead to higher rates of mental health issues and other challenges.

Exploring childhood experiences and the messages received during that time can help uncover the roots of shame.

Understanding the historical context of the Bible and the role of the church in shaping religious beliefs can help challenge harmful interpretations and promote empathy.

The importance of conversations and empathy when addressing sexual shame and promoting understanding between different perspectives.

How Shame can manifest in various ways and is often accompanied by anger, guilt, and denial. It is important to identify and understand the underlying emotions.

“I’ve always gone into spaces that might seem a little strange or intimidating to other people… I just allow myself to be in these spaces as long as people invite me into those spaces. I’m totally there to like, experience their life and what’s going on rather than have presuppositions.”

Willingness to explore unfamiliar or intimidating spaces without preconceived notions is extremely beneficial to understanding ourselves and others

By emphasizing with our intention to understand others’ lives and experiences, we can show empathy and respect toward those we connect with

Exploring a willingness to embrace new opportunities for personal growth and understanding

Understanding the desire to experience life as it is, without presuppositions, we can explore our own authenticity

“It’s a terrible feeling when you know that people really are trying their best… But you’re the only one that can make it better.”

Despite recognizing others’ efforts, we can acknowledge that ultimately, we are responsible for improving our own circumstances.

The importance of personal accountability and introspection in fostering positive change.

How resilience plays into our learning and attempts to make life better

People are trying their best, it is possible for us to understand and empathize with others’ struggles.

“I’m confident that the more exposure and the more conversations and the less anger, we can get to a place of understanding.”

We can be optimistic in our outlook because our human nature is embedded with the potential for positive change through communication.

We encourage meaningful engagement as a means to promote understanding and empathy.

Conflict Resolution is key, but not at our own detriment

Achieving understanding requires a collective effort

About Ann Russo

Ann specializes in LGBTQ+ issues, with a unique background in theology, ethical non-monogamy and mental health (she got her Masters Degree in Theology). She combines personal experience with professional expertise to provide accessible mental health care though her business AMR. She has done speaking engagements and has been hired to train and educate various groups on these topics, including hospitals, clergy, and other therapists.

https://www.amrtherapy.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/annrussolcsw/

https://www.instagram.com/amr_therapy/

Resources:

Check out other conversations where we discuss shame and religiosity

Ep.74 with Dawn DiMicco: “Your Faith Doesn’t Make Your Sexuality Wrong”

Ep.116 with J.K. Emezi: “How To Stop Struggling With Secret Compulsions A...

“If you want to be successful in life, be your own CEO.”

In this episode, Nick speaks with Marques Ogden, a former NFL player turned speaker and coach, and shares his journey from the NFL to bankruptcy and divorce and how he rebuilt his life. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on your strengths and building from there rather than dwelling on your weaknesses. Marques also highlights the significance of mindset and self-discipline in achieving success and overcoming adversity. He shares his personal experience with therapy and the transformation from a victim mindset to a victor mindset.

What to listen for:

Focus on your strengths and build from there

Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth

Develop a victor mindset instead of a victim mindset

Prioritize self-discipline and a positive mindset

Seek therapy and professional help for personal growth

“You need to really be inspired, or what Aristotle said is for you to be passionate about what you’re doing.”

How passion and inspiration are essential for success

Emphasizing the importance of being deeply inspired or passionate about your pursuits

Genuine passion is crucial for sustained dedication and excellence in life

Being inspired or passionate about what you’re doing aligns with finding purpose and meaning in your work

Passion and inspiration serve as fuel during challenging times, helping individuals persevere and overcome obstacles

When you’re passionate about something, you’re more likely to innovate and think creatively, leading to unique solutions and breakthroughs

“Master what you are good at. Build from there, and then let everything else take its time and take its course.”

 Why we must focus on our strengths

 By mastering what you’re good at, you establish a solid foundation for further development and expansion

The importance of patience and trust in our lifelong process

How building from strengths allows for a strategic progression, where each step builds upon the previous one

Focusing on what you’re good at can lead to sustainable growth and long-term success, as opposed to chasing every opportunity

Understanding one’s strengths is a sign of self-awareness, which is crucial for personal and professional development

“I used to always look at things from a victim mindset. And now I really realized after my divorce and starting to say, you know what, I’m not going to live like this. I now have turned that from a victim mindset to a victor mindset.”

Personal transformation is key

Moving away from a victim mindset involves taking ownership of one’s circumstances and choices and empowering oneself to enact change.

How diversity, such as divorce, can serve as a catalyst for personal growth and empowerment

Adopting a victor mindset suggests a positive outlook on life, focusing on opportunities for growth and success rather than dwelling on past hardships

Overcoming challenges strengthens resilience, making individuals more capable of navigating future difficulties with confidence

About Marques Ogden

Marques Ogden is a former NFL player turned inspirational speaker, author, and entrepreneur. He is the founder and CEO of Ogden Ventures LLC, a media and entertainment company that specializes in keynote speaking, business coaching, and consulting.

Ogden is a three-time best-selling author and the host of the podcast “Get Authentic with Marques Ogden.” In his speaking engagements, Marques leads his audiences to understand why “Authenticity Creates Victory” by sharing his personal story of overcoming adversity and achieving success. Marques is on a mission to inspire CEOs and other senior leaders to maximize their potential to reach their personal and professional goals.

www.marquesogden.com

www.instagram.com/marquesogden

Resources:

Interested in starting your own podcast or need help with one you already have? Send Nick an email or schedule a time to discuss your podcast today!

Thank you for listening!

“Meditation is a state of being, not an activity. The goal is to be able to carry this meditative state into your daily life.”

In this episode, Nick speaks with Tarak Uday to dive into self-discovery, lucid dreaming, and alternative healing.

Tarak shares his journey, including a life-threatening heart condition that led him to explore metaphysics and practices beyond traditional medicine. He emphasizes the importance of approaching these practices with a critical mind, not blind faith. Liste in as Tarak shares the transformative experiences he’s had through meditation that have shifted his views on death and existence overall.

What to listen for:

How a health challenge sparked a journey into metaphysics

Why critical thinking matters when exploring alternative practices

Unveiling the interconnectedness of dreams

The power of self-awareness for personal growth

“When you close your eyes, like right now you’re seeing everything, the whole entire input of what you’re experiencing is happening with your physical senses. That’s how you know what you are experiencing in this physical 3d reality we call life. And so in the dream, though, you’re not using your physical eyes. You’re not using your physical ears. You’re not using your physical sense of touch. Those are your astral senses.”

Our existence and our reality are not the same experiences others are having

How our existence is deeper than our physical senses and ways to experiment with this existence

What we can do to break free of the limited thinking about our reality

“Discipline is the highest form of self love. And so just incorporate some form of discipline. And I’m not saying, you know, find the exercise to do, but just be regular in your approach.”

How discipline ties into our growth

Seeing discipline as a form of self-love and how to best “love” ourselves

Taking a scientific approach to our lives and how that can look for each of us

“Meditation is not an activity. Meditation isn’t something you do. Meditation is a state of being. And the activity, the purpose of the activity is to put you into that state of being so that you can resonate and be meditating.”

How meditation can actually help us with handling life’s tough and interesting situations

The thought that meditation doesn’t start with closing our eyes; it starts after the session

Ways that have worked for Tarak and tips you can use right now

About Tarak Uday

Tarak Uday, a profound spiritual mentor, unlocks the mysteries of metaphysical growth, blending ancient wisdom with modern insights to guide seekers toward transformative self-discovery and spiritual evolution.

https://awakenwithin.us/

https://www.instagram.com/tarakuday333/

Resources:

Interested in starting your own podcast or need help with one you already have? Send Nick an email or schedule a time to discuss your podcast today!

Thank you for listening!

Please subscribe on iTunes and give us a 5-Star review! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-mindset-and-self-mastery-show/id1604262089

Watch Clips and highlights: www.youtube.com/channel/UCk1tCM7KTe3hrq_-UAa6GHA

Guest Inquiries right here: [email protected]

Your Friends at “The Mindset & Self-Mastery Show”

https://youtu.be/kCWlTnwiaic

“Your body is wise. It will tell you everything you need to know. The timing for growth and change is different for everyone, and that’s okay.”

In this episode, Nick and Gazit Chaya “Z” Nkosi dive into understanding and managing the nervous system to improve overall well-being. They explore how historical trauma and societal conditioning have impacted our nervous systems, leading to various dysregulations. Z emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with our bodies and listening to our signals to navigate stress and emotions effectively. They discuss practical techniques, including mindfulness, movement, and self-inquiry, to support the nervous system’s regulation.

What to listen for:

The impact of historical trauma on the nervous system

Importance of reconnecting with the body

Practical techniques for nervous system regulation, like mindfulness practices, movement exercises as well as self-inquiry and reflection

Recognizing and responding to physiological cues

Empowerment through self-awareness and self-compassion

Addressing societal conditioning and redefining authority over oneself

The role of personal growth in reducing violence and fostering resilience

“When everything started to go downhill, that was the moment. Our nervous systems have handled generational trauma, but what do we do with this information?”

Understanding historical trauma and how it affects our nervous system

What we can do when we’re experiencing trauma again

“Supporting my nervous system is straightforward—breathing, vocalization, movement, and mindfulness—embedded in every Indigenous and wisdom tradition”

About the importance of reconnecting with our bodies

How we can effectively manage stress

The signals to look and listen for when stressed

“Your body is wise. It will tell you everything you need to know. The timing for growth and change is different for everyone, and that’s okay.”

The Power of self-awareness and self-compassion in fostering resilience

Discussing the possibility of less violence and trauma both within ourselves and in society

About Gazit Chaya/Z Nkosi

Z (they/m) is grateful to now be enjoying the roller coaster of life after decades of suffering from a victimhood mindset. They are excited to share what they’ve learned in this earth school through their podcast, YouTube channel, courses, and coaching programs, with their core mission being to live and love into the absolute innocence of all beings.

https://www.anexperiencer.com/

https://www.youtube.com/@bethechange88

The video mentioned in the episode: https://youtu.be/onDtD7TOxE0

“Earth School With Z” Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/earth-school-with-z/id1717154192

Resources:

Interested in starting your own podcast or need help with one you already have? Send Nick an email or schedule a time to discuss your podcast today!

Thank you for listening!

Please subscribe on iTunes and give us a 5-Star review! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-mindset-and-self-mastery-show/id1604262089

Watch Clips and highlights: www.youtube.com/channel/UCk1tCM7KTe3hrq_-UAa6GHA

Guest Inquiries right here: [email protected]

Your Friends at “The Mindset & Self-Mastery Show”

https://youtu.be/JH8v1AA1F6A

“I’m very interested in understanding how people get through being on this planet. I find it to be one of the most confusing and beautiful and heartbreaking and incredible phenomena that we’re all here doing this.”

In this episode, Nick speaks with Gazit Chaya “Z” Nkosi, who shares their journey from being raised in a fundamentalist evangelical Christian environment to becoming a coach focusing on understanding and supporting people’s nervous systems. Z discusses their experience of almost joining the US Army and then the CIA as a crypto linguist, which was a significant turning point in their life. They reflect on their struggles with identity, particularly regarding their sexuality and the impact of religious dogma on their mindset. Throughout the conversation, Z emphasizes the importance of questioning societal norms and beliefs, radical acceptance without approval, and the possibility of personal growth and healing regardless of past experiences. The episode delves deep into themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the power of mindset in overcoming life’s challenges.

What to listen for:

Z discusses their transition from working as a speech pathologist to becoming a coach focused on supporting people with their nervous systems and life challenges

The conversation delves into Z’s exploration of their identity, including their upbringing in a fundamentalist evangelical Christian environment, their journey of self-discovery as a queer person, and their experiences with societal expectations and religious beliefs

Getting into the decision and aftermath of not joining the military or government

They emphasize the importance of radical acceptance, personal growth, and seeking support for mental well-being

“Radical acceptance is not radical approval. You are not saying yes to unacceptable behavior. You are giving yourself the opportunity to say, all right, this thing happened.”

Radical acceptance distinguishes itself from radical approval by acknowledging that accepting something does not equate to endorsing or condoning it

Radical Acceptance provides the individual with the power to recognize and come to terms with the reality of a situation, granting agency to respond to it in a constructive manner

The importance of internal reflection by allowing oneself to acknowledge and process the reality of a situation without necessarily agreeing with it

“If I have the capacity to create my own mindset, then I’m able to ask questions. And if I can ask questions, then I’m threatening the authoritarian structure of the dogma of religion, right?”

Highlighting the power of mindset creation, suggesting that individuals have the capacity to shape their own perspectives and beliefs rather than passively accepting dogma.

Discussion about the importance of questioning established beliefs and ideologies

Exploring the act of questioning authority, particularly within the context of religion, as a form of resistance that undermines the control exerted by authoritarian structures.

“You’re never too far gone. You can always develop the skills to have a life worth living, no matter who you are and what you’ve been through. There’s no hopeless cases.”

No matter how dire one’s circumstances may seem, it’s always possible to improve and create a fulfilling life.

Unpacking the human potential and the capacity for personal growth, asserting that individuals are never beyond redemption or incapable of positive change.

Finding empowerment by affirming that we have the ability to develop the necessary skills to create a meaningful and fulfilling life, regardless of their past experiences or current challenges.

About Gazit Chaya “Z” Nkosi

Z (they/m) is grateful to now be enjoying the roller coaster of life after decades of suffering from a victimhood mindset. They are excited to share what they’ve learned in this earth school through their podcast, YouTube channel, courses, and coaching programs, with their core mission being to live and love into t...

“There’s a big difference between mental health and mental wellness.”

In this episode, Nick speaks with Michele Capots, a transformational coach focusing on mental wellness and resilience. Michele shares her personal journey of overcoming fear and self-doubt, driven by her experiences with mental illness and trauma. She discusses the importance of mental wellness, distinguishing it from mental health, and highlights practices such as meditation, somatic work, and embracing the present moment. Michele emphasizes the significance of persistence and facing fears to create the life one desires. She encourages listeners to keep trying, manage fear, and seek out what works for them in their journey toward personal growth and fulfillment.

What to listen for:

Explore Michele’s personal journey and the trauma that her family experienced before she was even born

Nick and Michele discuss the difference between mental health and mental wellness

Dive into practical techniques for mental wellness that can work for you

Advice on the power of persistence and embracing our fears

“I spent almost two decades crippled by fear and self-doubt that held me back from going after my dream.”

Michele shares her story to help others live life to the fullest easier

Fear can stop us in our tracks; Michele shares what worked to get her going again

Dealing with surface-level healing will only get you so far

“There’s not one thing that sets you off… If we could just fix that one thing, everything will be okay.”

Finding the main source of a problem isn’t typically how or what you’d expect

Does a mental health magic pill really exist?

“You’re gonna feel the fear, you’re gonna have the fear, but to feel it and do it anyway.”

Accepting fear as a companion on your journey

Embracing moments and leaning into fear

Use fear as a motivator to take action

About Michele Capots 

Michele Capots is a transformational coach, international speaker, and storyteller on the power of mental wellness and resilience. Michele often shares from the perspective of her own self-stigma and low self-worth that followed her after a mental health diagnosis more than a decade ago until she learned how to use those very things to set her free. Michele’s passion is working with others who feel stuck and unable to move forward like she did, no matter what their obstacle may be, so that they can align their goals and desires with who they are from the inside out and find the same freedom to be their authentic selves.

www.michelecapots.com

www.linkedin.com/in/michele-capots-9149323

www.instagram.com/michele_capots

www.instagram.com/michelecapotsdotcom

Resources:

Interested in starting your own podcast or need help with one you already have? Send Nick an email or schedule a time to discuss your podcast today!

Thank you for listening!

Please subscribe on iTunes and give us a 5-Star review! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-mindset-and-self-mastery-show/id1604262089

Watch Clips and highlights: www.youtube.com/channel/UCk1tCM7KTe3hrq_-UAa6GHA

Guest Inquiries right here: [email protected]

Your Friends at “The Mindset & Self-Mastery Show”

https://youtu.be/wXeXOtDKHUc

“I think a lot of us don’t realize that we’re pretty much anxious often.”

In this episode, Nick dives into the topic of anxiety and shares a three-step process that has helped him manage his own anxiety. Most people experience anxiety, and some experience it very frequently each day but may not always recognize it. Nick reflects on his own lifelong experience with anxiety and emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in identifying and addressing it.

What to listen for:

Where you often land on the anxiety scale each day

Where anxiety comes from

A realization I’ve had about my anxiety and the visual that may be similar to your experience as well

The system and process I use to alleviate my stress and anxiety in a nanosecond

“The anxiety tends to, at least in my experience, come from past or future thinking. Thinking about things that have happened in the past experiences trying to look for patterns in things. We’re thinking about what could happen.”

I’ve found we’re not often actually anxious in the moment, but it’s the thought of past or present in the moment that makes us feel this way

We’re all similar in the fact that we have future and past thoughts, but we differ in how we react

We can easily get lost in the past or future, and having a process for this can be extremely helpful to set us straight in those moments

“I was having a conversation recently about somebody who I love dearly, who has an addiction, and that addiction has been compounded because of the anxiety and the traumas this person experienced throughout life. And they figured out how to cope with it by drowning it and disappearing from that space that they lived in with those traumas. And then it just became part of their life and part of what they do to the point where they don’t actually know what it’s like to be able to process through those things”

There are life lessons all around us; sometimes, it’s witnessing a friend, family member, or coworker’s struggles

Our addictions come from shame, and our shame can come from many areas, including past traumas that are unresolved

Working through our traumas and seeing life for what it really is is a huge starting or refreshing space

“in your day-to-day life, as you go through things and you think, I feel anxious right now, or I feel like something’s a little off, right? I just don’t feel right. I encourage you to be able to do the work and really figure out what the root problem of that is and where it comes from. I also encourage you to be able to have a system or process in place, like what I’ve talked about, of being able to just remove yourself from the anxiety and do something”

The more work we do on ourselves, the better we know ourselves and heal

Doing a process or speaking with a therapist once or twice can be helpful, but true healing can take years, lean into it

Becoming self-aware and holding ourselves accountable can be difficult at times, trust of professionals is a great starting point.

About Nick McGowan

I’m Nick McGowan, entrepreneur, podcaster, and mental health advocate, and I've been on a 20+ year journey of personal development, learning to master my mindset, emotions, and the art of living with purpose.

As a Mindset and Self-Mastery Mentor, I work with ambitious men and women who want to live their most authentic and joyous life, by helping them master their mindset, emotional awareness, and authentic communication. My mission is to empower people to lead lives that feel aligned, grounded, and truly their own.

Throughout my career, I’ve built teams, streamlined systems, and improved client experiences across SaaS, media, marketing, and personal development spaces. Whether I’m leading cross-functional projects, optimizing SEO, Podcasting, designing strategies, or guiding clients through transformation, I bring a hands-on, solution-focused approach to everything I do.

I’m also the host of The Mindset and Self-Mastery Show, where my guests and I unpack the stories that shape us,

“Break the curse of it, take it, and use it for purpose… but you’ve got to do the work.” 

In this episode, Nick speaks with Darlene Santore "Coach Dar", an occupational therapist and mental skills coach for professional athletes in the NBA, NFL, MLB, NHL, MLS, etc.. shares insights on resilience, mindset, and overcoming challenges both in sports and in life. Despite being a short white female in the world of professional sports, Coach Dar has worked with athletes across various leagues, helping them harness their mental capital and achieve peak performance.

What to listen for:

Lessons from her journey and experiences with professional athletes

How Dar navigates conversations and facilitates healing

Tips from the pros on how to best handle your mindset

“Your gifts and talents didn’t go away… accept it, embrace the suck of it, handle it, deal with it, emotionally feel it, and then go forward from it.”

There’s a recipe for life, and tenacity is a major portion of the ingredients

How our emotions tie into our decision-making

We talk about doing the hard things in life and having a pro-athlete mindset in how we handle those tough situations

“People deserve second chances in this world… but it’s an absolute change in your behavior, in your patterns to show that you’ve learned from it and you’re moving on.”

People often talk about showing others grace but find it difficult to show that to themselves and others

We must learn and grow from our mistakes, and we discuss how she works with professional athletes to do this

We get into the pressure professionals have each moment, and how the way they handle it can help the rest of us

“We have multiple roles to play in this life… don’t let the world lock you into one role.”

Discussing the various roles we have in our lives

Embracing our purpose and not letting the world lock us into something

Understanding what we’re here to do and the ways we can dive deeper into our purpose

About Darlene Santore “Coach Dar”

A Board-certified occupational therapist, leadership advisor, and mental skills coach for some of the top CEOs in the country and professional athletes in the world from the NBA, NHL, NFL, MLB, and MLS, Coach Dar shares her proven methods that any business professional can use to bounce back from setbacks and thrive even in the toughest of times. Recently named Senior Fellow of PathNorth—an organization of world leaders and CEOs of Fortune 100 companies, her powerful message continues to reach a global audience. As a mental skills and leadership coach, she helps athletes, business leaders, career-minded professionals, and entrepreneurs up their game, overcome obstacles, gain a mental edge, get out of “slumps,” and become better leaders. The result? Individuals, corporate executives, and professional athletes & teams aim higher and achieve more. Additionally, Coach Dar is a trailblazer for Phoenix women and was awarded the Most Inspiring Woman from WNBA.

https://www.coachdar.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/darleensantore/

https://www.facebook.com/DarleenSantore

https://www.instagram.com/thecoachdar/

https://twitter.com/thecoachdar

Resources:

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