Episodes

  • Deciding to Ask Bigger Questions: Spencer Klavan on Science, Faith & Building a Meaningful Business // REPLAY

    Deciding to Ask Bigger Questions: Spencer Klavan on Science, Faith & Building a Meaningful Business // REPLAY
    May 21 2025
    What’s the real point of your business — and your life?In this mind-opening conversation, scholar and cultural commentator Spencer Klavan joins host Sanger Smith to explore one of the most overlooked foundations in entrepreneurship: God.Spencer, associate editor of the Claremont Review of Books and host of Young Heretics, draws from ancient philosophy, Western civilization, and his own theological lens to examine what happens when faith, science, and leadership intersect.Whether you’re leading a company, raising a family, or just trying to figure out why the world feels so off lately — this conversation pulls back the curtain on the real questions we’re all wrestling with.This episode isn’t just philosophical — it’s deeply practical. It's a wake-up call for any leader building something on shaky ground.If you’ve ever asked yourself, “Is there more to this than money, metrics, and growth?” — this is the episode to press play on.KEY TOPICSWhy you can’t separate science from theology — and why that matters for leaders todayHow the Protestant Reformation and the Scientific Revolution were asking the same question: “What is truth?”Why the collapse of secularism is fueling a spiritual hunger in business, culture, and everyday lifeThe rise of AI, the myth of human replacement, and the eternal longing tech can’t fillWhat Russell Brand, Ion Hirsi Ali, and modern seekers reveal about the return to faithThe role of humility in leadership — and how to be the mentor people run to at 2AMWhy the telos (final cause) of your company may be the most important question you’re not askingCHAPTERS00:00 Introduction 01:20 The Role of Theology in Business03:31 Scientific Revolution and Religion07:21 Philosophy and Science Intertwined17:02 Modern Atheism and Its Decline21:02 Spirituality in Business Leadership30:01 Defining True Christianity32:09 Debating the Apostle Creed33:02 Historical Context of Christian Creeds34:39 Modern Converts and Cultural Christianity36:37 Stages of Faith Development38:56 Challenges in Faith and Personal Responsibility47:21 The Role of Technology in Faith53:00 Final Thoughts and Leadership InsightsCONNECT WITH USwww.decidedlypodcast.com Join us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/decidedlypodcast Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decidedlypodcast Shawn’s Instagram: www.instagram.com/shawn_d_smith Sanger’s Instagram: www.instagram.com/sangersmith MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION?At Decidedly Wealth Management, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy.LEARN MOREwww.decidedlywealth.com SUBSCRIBE TO OUR WEEKLY DECISION-MAKING TIP EMAILJoin us every Wednesday for more strategies to DEFEAT bad decision-making - one episode ata time!CONNECT WITH SPENCER KLAVANInstagram: @sklavan Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/SpencerAKlavan/⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencer-klavan-0a963631/⁠ ⁠How to Save the West: Ancient Wisdom for 5 Modern Crises⁠ ⁠Light of the Mind, Light of the World: How New Science is Illuminating Ancient Truths About God⁠ The New Jerusalem Substack: ⁠https://thenewjerusalem.substack.com/⁠ Rejoice Evermore Substack: ⁠https://rejoiceevermore.substack.com/⁠ Podcast: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/young-heretics/id1513602173⁠ Spencer Klavan is a scholar, associate editor of the Claremont Review of Books, and host of the Young Heretics podcast. A graduate of Yale, he earned his doctorate in ancient Greek literature from Oxford University. Spencer’s deep understanding of the roots of Western civilization makes him a trustworthy guide for navigating our evolving culture, and what we can do to help. His analysis: The situation is dire. But every crisis we face today we have faced—and surmounted—before.
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    1 hr
  • Deciding to Deliver World-Class Customer Experiences with Dr. Joseph Michelli | The Michelli Experience

    Deciding to Deliver World-Class Customer Experiences with Dr. Joseph Michelli | The Michelli Experience
    May 14 2025
    What makes a customer feel like they matter? In this powerhouse conversation, bestselling author and world-renowned customer experience consultant Dr. Joseph Michelli joins us to unpack the magic behind some of the most beloved brands in the world — from Ritz Carlton and Starbucks to Zappos, Mercedes-Benz, and more. Whether you're a business owner, team leader, or someone obsessed with elevating your client journey — this episode is your blueprint. This conversation isn’t just about customer service — it’s about legacy. The kind that turns clients into loyal fans and employees into brand ambassadors. If you’ve ever wondered what truly sets great businesses apart, you’ll want to hit play on this one. KEY TOPICS The “chocolate on the pillow” effect: How small, thoughtful details create unforgettable experiences Why not every customer is right — and how to know which feedback is worth your energy The art of designing a space and culture that your team and clients love What Chick-fil-A does that AI never could How to use brand rituals to stand out in a saturated market Why the future of business is deeply personal — not just digital CHAPTERS 00:00 Welcome to the New Studio 02:26 Introducing Dr. Joseph Micelli 03:15 Implementing 'Carry the Bag' Concept 04:11 Signature Moments in Customer Experience 06:22 Balancing Consistency and Innovation 12:27 Understanding Target Customers and Aspirations 22:39 Challenges in Customer Perception 29:37 The Importance of Company Culture 30:26 Employee Feedback and Engagement 30:58 AI in Customer Experience 34:29 Human Touch vs. AI in Customer Service 37:45 Balancing Technology and Human Interaction 40:32 Personalized Customer Service 44:28 Effective Sales Techniques 54:29 Decision Making in Business 55:58 Conclusion and Key Takeaways MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE All Business is Personal: https://www.amazon.com/All-Business-Personal-Human-Centered-Technology-Powered/dp/1637746768 CONNECT WITH US www.decidedlypodcast.com Join us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/decidedlypodcast Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decidedlypodcast Shawn’s Instagram: www.instagram.com/shawn_d_smith Sanger’s Instagram: www.instagram.com/sangersmith MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION? At Decidedly Wealth Management, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy. LEARN MORE www.decidedlywealth.com SUBSCRIBE TO OUR WEEKLY DECISION-MAKING TIP EMAIL Join us every Wednesday for more strategies to DEFEAT bad decision-making - one episode ata time! CONNECT WITH DR. JOSEPH MICHELLI Website: https://www.josephmichelli.com/ Podcast: https://www.josephmichelli.com/podcast/ X: https://x.com/josephmichelli Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMichelliExperience LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephmichelli/ Joseph A. Michelli, Ph.D., C.S.P., is an internationally sought-after speaker, author, and organizational consultant who transfers his knowledge of exceptional business practices in ways that develop joyful and productive workplaces with a focus on customer experience. His insights encourage leaders and frontline workers to grow and invest passionately in all aspects of their lives.
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    58 mins
  • Deciding to Harness Celebrity Energy in Entrepreneurship: What It Takes to Make True Impact with Whitney Uland (REPLAY)

    Deciding to Harness Celebrity Energy in Entrepreneurship: What It Takes to Make True Impact with Whitney Uland (REPLAY)
    May 7 2025
    In this episode of the Decidedly podcast, hosts Sanger Smith and Shawn Smith engage in a lively discussion with guest Whitney Uland, a multifaceted entrepreneur, filmmaker, and expert in intentional living. Whitney shares her insights on harnessing 'celebrity energy' to empower entrepreneurs to build successful personal brands. Through her unique perspective, Whitney explores the psychological barriers holding people back from achieving fame and how to overcome them. The conversation dives deep into the value of authenticity in personal branding, navigating industry changes, and the importance of picking the right goals. Whitney also discusses her background in acting and filmmaking, and how personal experiences shaped her career path. Listeners will gain valuable tips on hacking their mindset and nervous system to achieve their big visions for life and business.KEY TOPICSDebunking the idea of fame, wealth, and achievement being innately greedy.Nervous system hacking to prevent holding yourself back from your full potential.Refining your ability to pivot when things aren’t going according to plan.The trap of meaningless goals, and how to avoid them.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Podcast Information04:56 The Concept of Celebrity Energy08:54 Overcoming Rejection and Building Confidence13:00 Navigating the Entertainment Industry15:07 The Impact of Strikes and Adapting to Change18:13 Setting and Achieving Goals25:59 Challenges Faced by Underrepresented Groups26:12 Impact of Trauma on Personal Growth26:39 Mindset and Wealth Creation27:40 The Importance of Self-Worth28:07 Overcoming Everyday Challenges29:47 Empowering Clients with Tools for Success31:57 Setting and Achieving Goals40:14 Navigating Social Media for Personal Branding53:53 Final Thoughts and TakeawaysMENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEBrooke Castillo: https://www.thelifecoachschool.com/ CONNECT WITH USwww.decidedlypodcast.com Join us on Instagram: www.instagram.com/decidedlypodcast Join us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/decidedlypodcast Shawn’s Instagram: www.instagram.com/shawn_d_smith Sanger’s Instagram: www.instagram.com/sangersmith MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION?At Decidedly Wealth Management, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy.LEARN MOREwww.decidedlywealth.com SUBSCRIBE TO OUR WEEKLY DECISION-MAKING TIP EMAILJoin us every Wednesday for more strategies to DEFEAT bad decision-making - one episode ata time!CONNECT WITH WHITNEY ULANDWebsite: Coaching - https://www.abundantartistcoaching.com // Acting/Filmmaking - http://www.whitneyuland.com/ Whitney’s Episode on the Tom Kelly Show: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/307-celebrity-energy-whitney-uland/id1501986299?i=1000618598564 Instagram: www.instagram.com/whitneyuland Podcast, The Abundant Artist: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-abundant-artist-podcast/id1512877614 TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@whitneyuland Whitney Uland is a multifaceted entrepreneur, filmmaker, actor, and expert in intentional living. With her perspective on harnessing "celebrity energy," Whitney empowers entrepreneurs to leverage their personal brand and authenticity to build thriving businesses. As the owner of Abundant Artist Coaching and Outer Darkness Films, she combines her expertise in intentional living, brain optimization, and mindset practices to guide entrepreneurs toward unlocking their full potential. From her acclaimed debut feature film "The Cosmos Sisters" to her dedication to helping entrepreneurs tap into their inner celebrity energy, Whitney is committed to cultivating unique personal brands.
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    56 mins
  • Ep.150 I Deciding to Have Your Last Bad Day: It’s Not Luck, It’s Mindset w/ Michael O’Brien / REPLAY

    Ep.150 I Deciding to Have Your Last Bad Day: It’s Not Luck, It’s Mindset w/ Michael O’Brien / REPLAY
    Apr 30 2025

    What would happen if you did a gratitude practice before opening each meeting? Are mindfulness practices a fluffy waste of time? Michael O’Brien suffered a personal tragedy that caused him to reset how he thinks about his beliefs, and how he utilizes his energy in daily life. Today, he shares the power of recognizing that everything in life is neutral until we label it…and how the labels we choose shape our perceptions.KEY TOPICS- Why leaders struggle to celebrate their wins (and what to do about it.)- How implementing mindfulness into daily routines increases productivity.- The consequences our minds and bodies face when we approach life with pessimism.- How to stop self-sabotaging your days.SUBSCRIBEhttps://www.youtube.com/@decidedlypodcast?sub_confirmation=1CHAPTERS00:00 Mission of Decidedly00:51 Sanger & Shawn’s Scar Stories03:21 Introducing Michael O’Brien04:43 If Your Default is Pessimism07:50 Michael’s Car Accident15:17 “You’re Husband’s Not Gonna Make It”23:40 Reframing Your Thoughts30:53 Mindset Training34:16 Deciding to Respond, Not React41:00 Mindfulness Tips for Business50:26 Pressure Testing Your Thoughts1:03:42 Decision-Making Tip for Business Owners1:05:42 Key Takeaways1:07:17 Producer ClosingMENTIONED IN THIS EPISODEEp.54 I Dandapani I Deciding to Have Unwavering Focus: Insights from a Former Monk - https://open.spotify.com/episode/4UIoKAIBY7yzoKM0ABNtJwCONNECT WITH US⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠Instagram⁠: @decidedlypodcastFacebook⁠: https://www.facebook.com/decidedlypodcastShawn’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @shawn_d_smithSanger’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @sangersmith Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editing and post-production of the Decidedly podcast. SANGER’S BOOKA Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠ - https://www.amazon.com/Life-Rich-Significance-Transforming-Meaningful/dp/1952654769 SHAWN’S BOOKPlateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠ - https://www.amazon.com/Plateau-Jumping-What-Change-When-ebook/dp/B0CTXHP5HR MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION?At ⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy. LEARN MORE: ⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠ WEEKLY NEWSLETTERhttps://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/manage/optin?v=001aeU_pPBHJPNJWJBdVbaci6bjGIuEJurH12xHBWDEVT_NxyCadMd7wLSZjcEZglkSjDjehuIbTHD8nABOIdV69ctfYpSzg24RCIytetBUrlIPPKgaGzjGZ8DkM0Wp1LMjbErcYUur7PbZGjeVo4gyXlz821AoJGZR⁠ CONNECT WITH MICHAEL O’BRIENWebsite: https://www.michaelobrienshift.com/ Instagram: @pausebreathereflect LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/michaelobrienpelotoncoachingThe Ripple Effect Newsletter: https://www.michaelobrienshift.com/newsletter/The Kintsugi Podcast: https://www.michaelobrienshift.com/kintsugi-podcast/Michael is a qualified meditation teacher, executive coach, and endurance athlete. He loves helping people accomplish hard things through mindfulness. He’s a survivor of a horrific near-death cycling accident called his Last Bad Day and years in the corporate executive suite and in 2022 used the power of mindfulness to ride his bike across America.
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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • Ep.133 I Deciding Curiosity Beats Compliance: The Case for Smart Rebels w/ Dr. Todd Kashdan // REPLAY

    Ep.133 I Deciding Curiosity Beats Compliance: The Case for Smart Rebels w/ Dr. Todd Kashdan // REPLAY
    Apr 23 2025

    What happens when you stop playing by the rules and start asking better questions? Where’s the line between healthy dissent and chaos — and why do the best leaders welcome a little pushback?


    Psychologist and researcher Dr. Todd Kashdan joins us to make the case for principled insubordination — and why compliance culture kills innovation. We’re breaking down how to lead curious teams, challenge bad ideas without blowing things up, and create the kind of environment where the smartest voices aren’t the quietest ones.


    KEY TOPICS

    • Why curiosity is inefficient — and why that’s a good thing.
    • The danger of compliance culture in leadership.
    • When “too agreeable” becomes your company’s biggest risk.
    • The art of asking better questions (and why most people don’t).


    SUBSCRIBE

    https://www.youtube.com/@decidedlypodcast?sub_confirmation=1


    CHAPTERS

    (00:01) When rebels outperform rule-followers

    (01:19) Skipping the meeting — and still winning

    (02:05) The problem with obedience culture

    (05:56) Why Dr. Kashdan left Wall Street for psychology

    (07:13) Anxiety, self-awareness, and bad leadership

    (08:36) Purpose as a cure for social anxiety

    (10:51) Social skills we lost during COVID

    (13:47) Are we overusing the word “bullying”?

    (14:42) You need stress to build strength

    (16:07) Why popular kids sometimes peak in high school

    (17:36) The confidence gap nobody talks about

    (19:30) Why honest feedback is so rare

    (22:17) Sarcasm, teasing, and intimacy

    (25:03) How curiosity actually builds connection

    (29:43) Don’t Google it: The social power of not knowing

    (32:42) Curiosity vs. the shortcut mindset

    (34:41) The link between curiosity and memory

    (36:17) Why some people just aren’t curious

    (38:24) Curiosity is inefficient — and that’s the point

    (40:14) The risk of staying “safe” in leadership

    (43:58) The freshman year lesson that changed everything

    (45:47) Tailoring leadership to your team

    (47:46) Smart rebels vs. loose cannons

    (49:24) When curiosity backfires at work

    (51:20) Why some employees stop sharing ideas

    (53:29) How to disagree without blowing things up

    (56:19) The decision-making checklist your team needs

    (58:09) Defensive pessimism: The plan B mindset

    (60:05) Dr. Todd Kashdan's top decision-making tip for business owners


    CONNECT WITH US

    ⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠

    Instagram⁠: @decidedlypodcast

    Facebook⁠: https://www.facebook.com/decidedlypodcast

    Shawn’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @shawn_d_smith

    Sanger’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @sangersmith


    Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editing and post-production of the Decidedly podcast.


    SANGER’S BOOK

    A Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠: https://www.amazon.com/Life-Rich-Significance-Transforming-Meaningful/dp/1952654769


    SHAWN’S BOOK

    Plateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠: https://www.amazon.com/Plateau-Jumping-What-Change-When-ebook/dp/B0CTXHP5HR


    MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION?

    At ⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy.

    LEARN MORE: ⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠


    WEEKLY NEWSLETTER https://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/manage/optin?v=001aeU_pPBHJPNJWJBdVbaci6bjGIuEJurH12xHBWDEVT_NxyCadMd7wLSZjcEZglkSjDjehuIbTHD8nABOIdV69ctfYpSzg24RCIytetBUrlIPPKgaGzjGZ8DkM0Wp1LMjbErcYUur7PbZGjeVo4gyXlz821AoJGZR⁠


    CONNECT WITH DR. TODD KASHDAN

    Newsletter: https://toddkashdan.substack.com/about

    Website: https://toddkashdan.com/

    The Well-Being Lab (download articles here!): https://toddkashdan.com/well-being-lab/

    Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddkashdan

    Instagram: @toddkashdan

    X: @toddkashdan

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/public/Todd-Kashdan

    Psychology Today Blog: psychologytoday.com/blog/curious

    Books: https://toddkashdan.com/books/

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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • Ep.161 I Deciding "Education" is Failing Us: Bring Back Critical Thinking with Matt Beaudreau // REPLAY

    Ep.161 I Deciding "Education" is Failing Us: Bring Back Critical Thinking with Matt Beaudreau // REPLAY
    Apr 16 2025
    Have you wondered if the education system is actually preparing the next generation to lead? Do you question whether *real* learning happens within the confines of a classroom? What if the very foundation of how we’ve been taught to think is broken?Matt Beaudreau is on a mission to rebuild the way we raise young people into impactful adults. Through his educational program, Apogee Strong, he’s empowering young people to break free from the limits of the traditional school system and become true leaders—starting with responsibility, character, and action. In this episode, we explore why real education isn't taught in classrooms and how Matt's approach is redefining what it means to be “ready for the real world.” KEY TOPICSHow to break free from the conformity of the education system to create effective leaders.What we all need to unlearn from the broken school system we grew up in.The value of questioning authority, and what that looks like when done effectively.Why real-world experiences educate to a higher degree of success than a classroom ever will. CHAPTERS00:00 Intro: Defeating Bad Decision-Making in Life and Business03:15 Lessons from "Wasting" Time08:45 Freedom Within Structure12:30 Introducing Matt Beaudreau17:50 From Public School to Revolution: Building New Education Systems23:10 Education Failures: More Than Just Bad Grades30:00 Meta Skills: The Missing Link in Education35:45 Why Academia Isn't the Answer: Real Education Starts Here42:00 Leadership by Example: Matt’s Approach to Raising Strong Men48:30 How to Foster Responsibility in Students54:15 The Role of Entrepreneurship in Education1:00:00 The Power of Mentorship in Youth Programs1:05:20 Empowering Students Through Choice and Consequence1:10:45 The Future of Education: Matt’s Vision1:16:30 Final Thoughts: How to Rebuild Education Systems That Work CONNECT WITH US⁠⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠⁠⁠Watch this episode on YouTube⁠Subscribe on ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠: @decidedlypodcastFacebook⁠⁠Shawn’s ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠: @shawn_d_smithSanger’s ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠: @sangersmith Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editing and post-production of the Decidedly podcast. SANGER’S BOOK: ⁠⁠A Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠⁠ SHAWN’S BOOK: ⁠⁠Plateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠⁠ MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION?At ⁠⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠⁠, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy. LEARN MORE: ⁠⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠⁠ FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER https://visitor.r20.constantcontact.com/manage/optin?v=001aeU_pPBHJPNJWJBdVbaci6bjGIuEJurH12xHBWDEVT_NxyCadMd7wLSZjcEZglkSjDjehuIbTHD8nABOIdV69ctfYpSzg24RCIytetBUrlIPPKgaGzjGZ8DkM0Wp1LMjbErcYUur7PbZGjeVo4gyXlz821AoJGZR⁠⁠ CONNECT WITH MATT BEAUDREAUWebsites: ⁠https://apogeestrong.com⁠ // ⁠https://apogeepays.com⁠Instagram: @mattbeaudreau // @apogeeprogramThe Essential 11 Podcast: ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0hh0o1PvIC8c4fE2Wv6LiF⁠ Matt founded Acton Academy Placer Schools, using the Socratic method to foster self-directed, independent young leaders. He also co-founded Apogee Strong, a mentorship program for young men, and launched the Apogee Strong Dads Program in 2023. His podcast, The Essential 11, provides leadership insights from global experts. Additionally, Matt founded the Apogee Strong Foundation, offering scholarships to young men for educational and leadership opportunities.Matt Beaudreau is a renowned keynote speaker, consultant, and coach, working with clients like Wells Fargo, Honeywell, and the U.S. Air Force. A two-time TEDx speaker and former Corporate Trainer of the Year at Stanford University, he has spoken to over 250,000 people worldwide.
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Ep.184 I Deciding to be Alone: 10 Days in Total Darkness and 60 in Antarctica with Akshay Nanavati

    Ep.184 I Deciding to be Alone: 10 Days in Total Darkness and 60 in Antarctica with Akshay Nanavati
    Apr 9 2025
    What do you do with fear that isn’t going away?Akshay Nanavati has walked ahead of Humvees looking for bombs in Iraq, dragged a 400-pound sled across Antarctica, and spent ten days in complete darkness—all in pursuit of one thing: a better relationship with fear. In this episode, heand Sanger talk about the difference between fear and danger, how most of us distract ourselves to avoid stillness, and why “good vibes only” is bad advice.They get into survivors’ guilt, the psychology of endurance, and what to do with emotions that won’t go away. KEY TOPICSHow survivor’s guilt after war became fuel for Akshay’s purpose.10 days in total darkness: What happens when you sit alone with your thoughts.Why the solitude of Antarctica was harder than the cold.What you learn about yourself when your body gives out before your mind. CHAPTERS00:00 – Intro: Defeating Bad Decisions in Life & Business00:51 – Letting Go to Move Forward03:13 – What to Do When You’re Not the Expert04:49 – Introducing Akshay Nanavati05:18 – A Job No One Wants: Clearing Bombs in Iraq07:35 – The Danger of Getting Comfortable09:49 – Training to Be Brave: Skydiving, Climbing & Confronting Fear12:03 – The Price of Courage: How Fear Builds Virtue14:27 – Praying for Patience... and Getting It16:53 – Fear Propels Preparation 18:33 – How the Dalai Lama Ended Up Writing His Foreword21:33 – Fear Is the Gateway to Growth, Not the Enemy23:56 – Turning Survivor’s Guilt Into Purpose26:20 – The Thought Isn’t the Problem—It’s What You Do With It28:41 – Addiction, Rock Bottom, and the Decision to Get Still31:02 – Why Most People Are Scared of Stillness33:23 – Learning to Sit With the Unanswered Questions35:49 – What a Darkness Retreat Actually Looks Like38:09 – Stillness vs. Doing Nothing 40:22 – 60 Days Alone in Antarctica 42:43 – When the Math No Longer Works, But You Keep Going45:08 – Cutting Weight, Cutting Tags, Cutting Toothbrushes47:21 – When the Body Breaks Before the Mind49:41 – Losing Fingers for the Sake of Purpose51:55 – The Price of Frostbite and the Power of Reframing54:12 – It’s So Hot in Antarctica... in a Tent?56:34 – Fearing Failure—and Why That’s a Good Thing58:57 – How to Know Which Fear Is Worth Facing01:01:21 – Decision Tip: Think in Versions, Not Pass/Fail01:01:55 – Where to Connect with Akshay Nanavati01:02:15 – Key Takeaways01:03:05 – Message from the Producer FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER CONNECT WITH US⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠Watch this episode on YouTubeSubscribe on ⁠YouTubeInstagram⁠: @decidedlypodcastFacebook⁠Shawn’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @shawn_d_smithSanger’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @sangersmith Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editingand post-production of the Decidedly podcast. SANGER’S BOOK: ⁠A Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠ SHAWN’S BOOK: ⁠Plateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠ MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION?At ⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy. LEARN MORE: ⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠ CONNECT WITH AKSHAY NANAVATIBook: https://www.amazon.com/FEARVANA-Revolutionary-Science-Health-Happiness/dp/1630476056/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0Website: https://fearvana.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/fearvanaInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/fearvana Akshay Nanavati is a Marine veteran who walked roads ahead of convoys looking for bombs, overcame PTSD and addiction, and now intentionally seeks out the toughest physical and mental challenges on earth—including dragging a 420-pound sled alone across Antarctica.
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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Ep.183 I Deciding to Take Initiative: What Happens When Men Step Up with Ryan Michler

    Ep.183 I Deciding to Take Initiative: What Happens When Men Step Up with Ryan Michler
    Apr 2 2025
    Is it possible to become the man you never had as a role model?Ryan Michler didn’t grow up with a blueprint for manhood—but that didn’t stop him from building one. He and Sanger talk about why so many men feel aimless and how stepping up—not faking it—is the way out. They talk about the appeal of distractions like sports and alcohol, the discomfort of starting from zero, and the kind of fulfillment that comes from actually doing hard things. KEY TOPICSWhy men substitute purpose with stats, screens, and manufactured intimacy.What happens when young men admire risk—and older men discourage it.How men get mocked both for not knowing—and for trying to learn.Why it’s better to take a first step than wait for certainty. CHAPTERS00:00 – Intro: Defeating Bad Decisions in Life & Business00:50 – Learning by Failing on a Ski Trip03:18 – Meet Ryan Michler: Founder of Order of Man04:20 – Growing Up Without a Present Dad06:48 – Can You Still Learn Manhood as an Adult?08:27 – Why Men Hide What They Don’t Know09:14 – The Catch-22 of Men Asking for Help10:51 – Why Not Knowing Feels Like a Threat11:38 – How Ego Blocks Growth13:43 – Finding Mentors & Letting Go of Pride16:08 – Why Ryan Walked Away from His Firm18:26 – Taking the Leap Toward Autonomy20:53 – Rebuilding on Your Own Terms23:09 – Why Advice Often Reflects Regret25:33 – Vested Interests & Biased Guidance27:46 – Seeking Deeper Purpose in Friendships29:49 – Choosing Relationships Intentionally31:03 – Escaping Into Sports When Life Lacks Purpose34:42 – False Meaning in Porn, Alcohol, & Ego37:02 – What Are You Escaping From?39:22 – Balance Is a Constant Act41:45 – Why Fulfillment Beats Happiness44:09 – You Don’t Find Purpose—You Build It46:25 – Podcasting & the Birth of Order of Man48:50 – Try What Interests You (Without Attachments)51:11 – Ryan’s Battle Plan: 4 Areas of Purpose53:13 – Decision Tip: Find Someone Who’s Done It53:21 – Where to Connect with Ryan Michler 54:15 – Key Takeaways 54:50 – Message from the Producer FREE WEEKLY NEWSLETTER CONNECT WITH US⁠www.decidedlypodcast.com⁠Watch this episode on YouTubeSubscribe on ⁠YouTubeJoin us on ⁠Instagram⁠: @decidedlypodcastJoin us on ⁠Facebook⁠Shawn’s ⁠Instagram⁠: @shawn_d_smithSanger’s Instagram⁠: @sangersmith Thank you to Shelby Peterson of Transcend Media for editingand post-production of the Decidedly podcast. SANGER’S BOOK: ⁠A Life Rich with Significance: Transforming Your Wealth to Meaningful Impact⁠ SHAWN’S BOOK: ⁠Plateau Jumping: What to Change When Change Is What You Want⁠ MAKING A FINANCIAL DECISION?At ⁠Decidedly Wealth Management⁠, we focus on decision-making as the foundational element of success, in our effort to empower families to purposefully apply their wealth to fulfill their values and build a thriving legacy. LEARN MORE: ⁠www.decidedlywealth.com⁠ CONNECT WITH RYAN MICHLERWebsite: https://orderofman.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanmichler & https://www.instagram.com/orderofman/Order of Man Podcast: https://orderofman.com/podcast-2/Sovereignty: The Battle for the Hearts and Minds of Men: https://store.orderofman.com/collections/planners-and-journals/products/sovereignty-signed-copy?_gl=1*of6zq8*_gcl_au*NDMyNjcwMTcuMTc0MjMyNzQ5Ng..*_ga*MTY3ODY4MTk5LjE3Mzg1OTM0NTU.*_ga_MHSG4VQ94E*MTc0MjQxNjk5NC40LjEuMTc0MjQxNzQwMS4wLjAuMA Ryan Michler unapologetically harnesses the authentic masculinity modern culture has lost. He challenges men to reject complacency, reclaim clarity, and boldly lead at home, in business, and in their communities through Order of Man.
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    56 mins