🔔 Subscribe to never miss an episode: ⁠https://linktr.ee/aaristidou ⁠➡️ ⁠ / innerwonderpodcast Join host Alex in a deep, thought-provoking conversation with Alan Lazarus, CEO of Next Level University. Alan shares his journey from growing up with significant personal adversities to achieving remarkable success in education and business. They explore the themes of potential, personal development, and the importance of balancing hard work with introspection. Alan elucidates his unique perspective on ambition, sharing personal anecdotes and key philosophies that guide his coaching and personal life. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone striving to reach their highest potential and seeking inspiration to turn adversity into strength.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction00:52 Alan's Personal Journey and Vision01:30 The Concept of Potential03:24 Striving vs. Arriving05:58 Early Life and Paradigm Shifts09:46 Career Achievements and Personal Development15:43 The Importance of Goals and Clarity20:10 Challenges and Adversity23:03 The Role of Achievement and Fulfillment30:43 Standards and Responsibility32:42 The Comfort and Entitlement of Modern Life33:12 Next Level Podcast Accelerator33:27 Defining Absolutely Yes and Absolutely Not People35:00 The Impact of Adversity on Personal Growth36:25 The Compound Effect of Choices Over Time38:45 The Importance of Humility and Hard Work42:44 Balancing Self-Belief and Humility45:22 The Role of Thinking and Working Hard48:28 The Four Modalities of Thinking52:55 The Lion King as a Source of Inspiration56:27 Visualization Exercise and Final Thoughts