Think. Live. Repeat.

[NOTE: This episode racked up the downloads at first release in January 2023 & we decided to rerelease it for newer listeners of the show. Buckle up for the ride of your life!]

Scott's life reads like a novel...and not the Disney fairy tale kind of story.  At a young age Scott learned just how cold the world can be when he and his younger brother were abducted by their mother. She fled the country with them and they were made to live like fugitives, using fake names and running from city to city. It culminated in Texas during a dramatic standoff with law enforcement and then took another turn as a legal battle ensued that captured the attention of the entire nation. 

They say true life is stranger than fiction & Scott's life is a testament to this. From his mother hiring a hitman to kill his father to burning their house down, these are the sorts of things no child should ever experience.

What's probably most incredible is just how much Scott has grown through all of this. What would easily bury most in a life of escapism and despair, Scott has met his trauma head on and worked tirelessly to grow and use these things to become a better version of himself. He serves the community through a variety of channels, raising awareness about crimes against children and educating parents how to protect their kids.

This is the story of Scott's journey from survivor to thriver and how he's taken absolutely terrible circumstances and used them to grow in ways most would never think possible.

You can order Scott's book Extraordinary Circumstances here: https://www.amazon.com/EXTRAORDINARY-CIRCUMSTANCES-Landmark-Parental-Abduction/dp/0595441696

You can learn more about Scott's incredible story here: https://scottberne.com/

Get valuable resources from NCMEC: https://www.missingkids.org/HOME

Follow & interact with Scott on LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-berne-27884814/
• https://m.facebook.com/scott.berne
• https://www.instagram.com/scottberne/?hl=en

Follow me on Instagram @ johnskomski for daily motivation and learn more about Investing Inward at https://jskomski.com/

Music: Hindsight (Instrumental) by Fivefold (used with written permission)

Colin Stevens, a two-time author and entrepreneur, shares his journey from banking to entrepreneurship and the challenges he faced along the way. He emphasizes the importance of taking risks and embracing discomfort in order to grow and succeed. Colin also discusses the fear of failure and the mindset needed to reframe failure as an opportunity for growth. He highlights the significance of being true to oneself and not seeking validation from others. Colin shares insights on parenting and setting a positive example for the next generation. Overall, his story inspires listeners to overcome obstacles and pursue their passions.

Check out Colin's site for more info: https://thecolinstevens.com/

Order Colin's book, Make Your Mark: https://www.amazon.com/Make-Your-Mark-Lessons-Fulfillment/dp/B0BLFW9V1K

Takeaways

• Taking risks and embracing discomfort are essential for personal and professional growth.
• Failure should be reframed as an opportunity for learning and growth.
• Not everyone is cut out to be an entrepreneur, and that's okay.
• Being honest with oneself and facing the truth is crucial for personal development.
• It is important to be okay with not being liked by everyone and focus on being true to oneself.
• Setting a positive example for children and embracing discomfort can help them develop resilience and a growth mindset.

Chapters

01:01
Transition from Banking to Entrepreneurship

02:26
Taking Risks and Making Career Transitions

04:32
Dealing with the Fear of Failure

07:44
Reframing Failure and Embracing Risk

09:46
The Importance of Discomfort and Challenge

13:28
Not Everyone is Cut Out to be an Entrepreneur

15:48
Managing Stress, Anxiety, and Panic

16:27
The Power of Reframing Failure

20:40
Being Honest and Facing the Truth

25:17
The Importance of Discomfort and Struggle

26:30
Qualifications for Writing a Book

28:57
The Impact of Sharing Struggles and Failures

31:03
Being Okay with Not Being Liked

38:11
Parenting and Setting a Positive Example

39:01
The Mindset of Embracing Discomfort

41:41
Conclusion and Connecting with Colin Stevens

Follow me on Instagram @ johnskomski for daily intrapreneurial motivation and learn more about Investing Inward at https://jskomski.com/

Music:
Hindsight (Instrumental) by Fivefold (used with written permission)
By Your Side by Caslow, Bertie Scott & Patfromlastyear (used with written permission)

In this episode, host John Skomski interviews Steve Griggs, the owner of Steve Griggs Design, a landscaping and design business in New York City. Steve shares his journey of starting his business and building it into a successful brand. He discusses the importance of design in landscaping and how he approaches working with clients to create their vision. 

Steve also talks about the challenges of dealing with planning and zoning boards and the impact of major events like 9/11 and COVID-19 on his business. He shares insights on growth, referrals, and the power of publishing a book. In this conversation, Steve Gregg discusses the importance of transparency and how it has contributed to his success in the construction industry. He emphasizes the value of doing what you say you're going to do and building trust with clients. 

Steve also talks about his book, 'Straight Dirt,' which highlights the importance of honesty and straightforwardness in business. He shares his insights on the simplicity of success and the need for follow-through. Steve discusses his plans for expansion and replicating his success in different locations. He also emphasizes the importance of understanding the work and having hands-on experience. Lastly, Steve gives advice to his younger self and discusses the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship.

Takeaways

• Starting a business requires hard work, dedication, and a willingness to learn from mistakes.
• Design is a crucial aspect of landscaping, and it requires understanding the client's vision and guiding them through the process.
• Dealing with planning and zoning boards can be challenging, but it is necessary to navigate the regulations and obtain permits.
• Major events like 9/11 and COVID-19 can have a significant impact on businesses, but adapting and finding alternate solutions is essential for success.
• Building a strong reputation and delivering exceptional service are key to obtaining referrals and growing a business. Transparency and honesty are key to building trust and gaining referrals in business.
• Success in business often comes from simple principles like doing what you say you're going to do.
• Expansion and replication can be achieved by leveraging the same core concepts and finding the right team.
• Understanding the work and having hands-on experience is important for leading and relating to employees.
• Continuous learning, delegation, and compartmentalization are essential for growth and success in business.

Get your copy of Steve's book, Straight dirt today: https://www.amazon.com/Straight-Dirt-Premier-Landscape-Designer/dp/1948261073

Follow Steve on "The 'Gram": https://www.instagram.com/stevegriggsdesign/

Follow me on Instagram @ johnskomski for daily intrapreneurial motivation and learn more about Investing Inward at https://jskomski.com/

Music:
Hindsight (Instrumental) by Fivefold (used with written permission)
By Your Side by Caslow, Bertie Scott & Patfromlastyear (used with written permission)

Listen up Inward Investors! Some exciting things are heading your way in 2024 as we shift our focus to mental health and providing mindset-based solutions for panic and anxiety. And don't skip off early, at the end of the episode I drop a special announcement about the Go Calm Yourself Collective!

Takeaways

• Traumatic experiences can lead to panic attacks and anxiety.
• Collaborating with like-minded individuals can open up new opportunities.
• Speaking engagements can be a powerful platform to share personal experiences and help others.
• Focusing on mental health and providing mindset-based solutions can make a positive impact.
• The Go Calm Yourself Collective offers support and community for individuals dealing with anxiety.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Background

03:00
Experiencing Trauma and Panic Attacks

06:00
Starting the Podcast and Collaboration with Book Thinkers

09:00
Exploring Speaking Opportunities

12:00
Shift in Focus to Mental Health

15:00
Introducing the Go Calm Yourself Collective

18:00
Conclusion and Future Plans

Follow me on Instagram @ johnskomski for daily intrapreneurial motivation and learn more about Investing Inward at https://jskomski.com/

Music:
Hindsight (Instrumental) by Fivefold (used with written permission)
By Your Side by Caslow, Bertie Scott & Patfromlastyear (used with written permission)

[NOTE: This episode has been a fan favorite & we decided to rerelease it for newer listeners of the show! As we dive more into mental health topics in the coming months, this felt like the perfect time!]

Ever hear of a little band called Maroon 5? Today you’re going to hear from their founding drummer Ryan Dusick & this conversation just might change your life!

We talk about the band's rise to fame, what life is like touring in a world renown band and some of the surprises he encountered along the way. We take a detour down entrepreneurship lane and talk specifically about the processing of finding your voice (literally in the band's case) and how the path to success is almost longer than we anticipate.   

We then dig into his ultimate exit from the band, and his struggles with anxiety & panic that ultimately led him down a dark path of addiction & alcoholism.

Ryan completely destroys any pre-conceived notions about a "rock star persona" you might think someone with his background would have. On the contrary, he's one of the most real & empathetic people I've had the pleasure of interviewing on the show. I promise you won't be able to put down his new book Harder to Breathe and you'll come away inspired.  

We wrap the episode on a positive note, working through Ryan's recovery process and hearing about how he serves people today as a certified therapist & coach. He's also a great speaker and I'm hoping he'll be launching a podcast or YouTube channel soon!

Oh, and Ryan shares some fun stories, like the time John Mayer did an impromptu comedy routine before the band opened for his concert. 
 
Order Ryan's book Harder to Breath: https://www.amazon.com/Harder-Breathe-Memoir-Finding-Recovery/dp/B0BVNPN6LJ

A great place to start learning more about Ryan: https://www.ryandusick.com/

Follow & interact with Ryan on Facebook, Instagram & LinkedIn

• https://www.facebook.com/ryan.m.dusick/
• https://www.instagram.com/ryan_michael_dusick/
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-dusick-ma-amft-26460894/

Follow me on Instagram @ johnskomski for daily intrapreneurial motivation and learn more about Investing Inward at https://jskomski.com/

Music: Hindsight (Instrumental) by Fivefold (used with written permission)

It's just me today - getting real about anxiety and panic and sharing some hints on exciting things on the horizon. Enjoy!

Takeaways

• Mental health, specifically panic and anxiety, is becoming more of a significant focus of the podcast.
• The terminology used to describe mental health struggles can create unrealistic expectations.
• Embracing the journey and focusing on direction and identity is more beneficial than fixating on a destination.
• Setting unrealistic expectations for overcoming mental health challenges can lead to additional stress and anxiety.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Focus on Mental Health

03:01
The Journey of Overcoming Panic and Anxiety

04:29
The Problem with the Terminology of Overcoming Mental Health

08:23
Embracing the Journey and Erasing the Destination

12:12
Stop Beating Yourself Over the Head with Expectations

13:51
Focus on Direction and Identity

14:17
Excitement for the Future

Follow me on Instagram @ johnskomski for daily intrapreneurial motivation and learn more about Investing Inward at https://jskomski.com/

Music:
Hindsight (Instrumental) by Fivefold (used with written permission)
By Your Side by Caslow, Bertie Scott & Patfromlastyear (used with written permission)

In this episode, John Skomski interviews Kevin Hines, an advocate for mental health and suicide prevention. Kevin shares his incredible story of surviving a suicide attempt by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge and how he has dedicated his life to helping others. The conversation covers various topics, including Kevin's books, the importance of storytelling, the support of his father, the journey of recovery, and the tools for wellness. Kevin emphasizes the need for taking action and seeking help, as well as the importance of gratitude and responsibility in managing mental health. The episode concludes with information on how to engage with Kevin and his upcoming projects.

Learn more about Kevin on his website & follow him on Instagram:

• https://www.kevinhinesstory.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/kevinhinesstory/

Order Kevin's book The Art of Being Broken today: https://www.amazon.com/Cracked-Not-Broken-Surviving-Thriving/dp/1442222409

Stay Tuned for his new children's book, The Dimly Lit Star, releasing on January 18th and helping kids with bullying.

Watch his mental health hacks series on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqDAWPaXPJA&list=PLaAelpJCpnYNW-emAtljtG2gEHIh9YwzX

Takeaways

• Kevin Hines survived a suicide attempt by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge and has since become an advocate for mental health and suicide prevention.
• The power of storytelling is emphasized in Kevin's books, which aim to save lives and inspire hope.
• The support of loved ones, such as Kevin's father, played a crucial role in his recovery and journey towards wellness.
• Taking responsibility for one's mental health and utilizing tools for wellness are essential in managing and overcoming mental health challenges.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction and Background

01:30
The Art of Being Broken

03:20
The Dimulet Star Children's Book

04:03
The Connection with the Author's Father

06:16
The Supportive Network

09:15
The Journey of Recovery

12:19
The Miracle and Gratitude

15:01
Taking Action and Seeking Help

18:23
Responsibility and Tools for Wellness

20:08
Engaging with Kevin Hines

21:13
Conclusion and Book Recommendations

Follow me on Instagram @ johnskomski for daily intrapreneurial motivation and learn more about Investing Inward at https://jskomski.com/

Music:
Hindsight (Instrumental) by Fivefold (used with written permission)
By Your Side by Caslow, Bertie Scott & Patfromlastyear (used with written permission)

In this conversation, Markus Kaulius discusses the importance of mindset and following your passion in business. He emphasizes that starting a business is different from running an existing business and cautions against negative thinking when considering the chances of success. Markus encourages listeners to start with what they love and not to believe the false dichotomy of choosing between doing what they love and making money. He also introduces his upcoming book and the Play a Bigger Game community, which aims to surround people with positive and supportive individuals.

Learn more about Markus on his website & follow him on Instagram:

• https://markuskaulius.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/markuskaulius/

Consider joining Play A Bigger Game: https://playabiggergame.com/

Takeaways

• Recognize and challenge the stories we tell ourselves
• Use positive affirmations to reframe negative beliefs
• Understand the science behind positive thinking
• Break free from a broken system and find authenticity and purpose
• Know when to persevere and when to quit When starting a business, it's important to have a positive mindset and not let negativity cloud your judgment.
• Following your passion and doing what you love can lead to success and financial stability.
• Surrounding yourself with positive and supportive individuals can help retrain your brain and improve your mindset.
• The Play a Bigger Game community provides a platform for individuals to connect with like-minded people and access valuable resources for personal and professional growth.

Chapters

00:00
Introduction to Marcus Collius

01:08
Marcus's Experience at Date with Destiny

03:03
Recognizing and Changing Our Stories

05:23
The Power of Positive Affirmations

06:43
The Science Behind Positive Thinking

09:19
Overcoming Negative Self-Talk

10:31
Unseating Negative Beliefs and Creating New Ones

15:25
The Importance of Intentional Thinking

17:34
Recognizing and Breaking Free from a Broken System

19:34
Finding Your Authenticity and Purpose

22:22
The Evolution of Marcus and Discovering Purpose

28:30
The Power of Experimentation and Reframing Failure

34:31
Knowing When to Persevere and When to Quit

39:42
Starting a Business vs. Existing Business

41:19
Following Your Passion vs. Pursuing Money

45:55
Play a Bigger Game

Follow me on Instagram @ johnskomski for daily intrapreneurial motivation and learn more about Investing Inward at https://jskomski.com/

Music:
Hindsight (Instrumental) by Fivefold (used with written permission)
By Your Side by Caslow, Bertie Scott & Patfromlastyear (used with written permission)

Jeanette Bronee discusses the concept of the power pause in conversations and how it can lead to better decision-making and collaboration. She emphasizes the importance of taking time in, rather than time out, to reflect and prioritize tasks. Bronee also highlights the need for reflection and rethinking in order to understand our strengths and challenges. She encourages pausing after impactful events to learn and grow from them. Bronee questions the culture of fear, uncertainty, and doubt (FUD) and advocates for care-driven cultures. She emphasizes the need to tap into what we care about to find true motivation and success.

Takeaways

• The power pause in conversations allows for better decision-making and collaboration.
• Taking time in, rather than time out, is important for reflection and prioritization.
• Reflection and rethinking help us understand our strengths and challenges.
• Pausing after impactful events allows for learning and growth.
• Questioning the culture of fear, uncertainty, and doubt (FUD) can lead to care-driven cultures.
• Tapping into what we care about is essential for motivation and success.

Chapters

00:00
The Power Pause in Conversations

05:22
Taking Time In, Not Time Out

09:13
The Importance of Reflection

11:57
Rethinking Strengths and Challenges

13:53
Pausing After Impactful Events

16:12
Redefining Influencers and Leaders

18:34
Moving Towards Collective Wellbeing

20:35
Questioning the Culture of Fear, Uncertainty, and Doubt (FUD)

24:47
The Cost of FUD and the Need for Care-Driven Cultures

28:28
Slowing Down and Doing It Right the First Time

29:54
Fear as an Unsustainable Motivator

33:21
Tapping into What We Care About

35:00
The Mind, Heart, and Motivation Connection

36:51
Where to Find Jeanette Bronee

Learn more about Jeanette on her website: https://www.jeanettebronee.com/

Order Jeanette's book The Self -are Mindset today: https://www.amazon.com/Self-Care-Mindset-Rethinking-Well-Being-Work-Life/dp/1119986850/

Follow me on Instagram @ johnskomski for daily intrapreneurial motivation and learn more about Investing Inward at https://jskomski.com/

Music: Hindsight (Instrumental) by Fivefold (used with written permission)

In this conversation, Efren Delgado, a former FBI special agent, discusses his experiences in national security, private security, and civil rights. He shares insights on the difference between the FBI and CIA, the importance of critical thinking, and the role of emotion in decision-making. Delgado also delves into the dynamics of hate crimes, racism, and bigotry, emphasizing the need for self-reflection and humility. He highlights the power of thinking and the dangers of groupthink, urging individuals to embrace reality and find purpose and meaning in their lives.

Order Efren's book The Opposite is True today : https://www.amazon.com/Opposite-True-Unexpected-Counterintuitive-Psychology/dp/B0CFZQGYY5

Follow & interact with Efren on Instagram & check out his website:

• https://www.instagram.com/efrendelgado
• https://efrendelgado.com/

Takeaways

• The FBI is responsible for national security and defense, while the CIA focuses on offense and gathering intelligence from other countries.
• Fear comes from the unknown, and the antidote to fear is learning and experience.
• Emotion and logic are both important in decision-making, but it is crucial to assess before making decisions.
• Anomalies and red flags should be paid attention to, as they can indicate potential threats.
• Hate crimes and bigotry stem from self-hate and the need to project it onto others.
• Thinking requires effort and humility, but it is essential for success and personal growth.
• Groupthink can lead to dangerous and irrational behavior, and it is important to think independently and critically.
• Finding purpose and meaning in life requires self-reflection and embracing reality.

Follow me on Instagram @ johnskomski for daily intrapreneurial motivation and learn more about Investing Inward at https://jskomski.com/

Music: Hindsight (Instrumental) by Fivefold (used with written permission)