In this episode, we delve into the concept of being "qualified" in the workplace, examining who gets labeled as such, who doesn't, and the underlying reasons. We explore "competency checking"—the practice of scrutinizing individuals' abilities—and how it disproportionately affects underrepresented groups, often going unnoticed or unchallenged. Our discussion aims to redefine qualifications in a fair, equitable, and actionable manner. Our guest, Shari Dunn , is an accomplished journalist, former attorney, news anchor, CEO, university professor, and sought-after speaker. She has been recognized as Executive of the Year and a Woman of Influence, with her work appearing in Fortune Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, Ad Age, and more. Her new book, Qualified: How Competency Checking and Race Collide at Work , unpacks what it truly means to be deserving and capable—and why systemic barriers, not personal deficits, are often the real problem. Her insights challenge the narratives that hold so many of us back and offer practical solutions for building a more equitable future. Together, we can build workplaces and communities that don’t just reflect the world we live in, but the one we want to create. A world where being qualified is about recognizing the talent and potential that’s been overlooked for far too long. It’s not just about getting a seat at the table—it’s about building an entirely new table, one designed with space for all of us. Connect with Our Guest Shari Dunn Website& Book - Qualified: https://thesharidunn.com LI: https://www.linkedin.com/today/author/sharidunn TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thesharidunn Related Podcast Episodes: How To Build Emotionally Mature Leaders with Dr. Christie Smith | 272 Holding It Together: Women As America's Safety Net with Jessica Calarco | 215 How To Defy Expectations with Dr. Sunita Sah | 271 Share the Love: If you found this episode insightful, please share it with a friend, tag us on social media, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform! 🔗 Subscribe & Review: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music…
The Ed Mylett Show showcases the greatest peak-performers across all industries in one place, sharing their journey, knowledge and thought leadership. With Ed Mylett and featured guests in almost every industry including business, health, collegiate and professional sports, politics, entrepreneurship, science, and entertainment, you'll find motivation, inspiration and practical steps to help you become the best version of you!
The Ed Mylett Show showcases the greatest peak-performers across all industries in one place, sharing their journey, knowledge and thought leadership. With Ed Mylett and featured guests in almost every industry including business, health, collegiate and professional sports, politics, entrepreneurship, science, and entertainment, you'll find motivation, inspiration and practical steps to help you become the best version of you!
The Confidence Code: How to Build Unshakable Self-Belief If you struggle with confidence, you’re not alone—but what if the real secret isn’t what you think? In this episode, I’m joined by my great friend and high-performance expert, Brendon Burchard , as we break down the true foundation of self-confidence and accountability. Confidence isn’t just a feeling—it’s a skill, and it comes from keeping the promises you make to yourself. We’re going to show you exactly how to generate momentum in your life, overcome self-judgment , and finally break free from the mental patterns that are keeping you stuck. Brendon and I talk about why so many people avoid accountability—how the fear of judgment holds them back from setting real goals—and why the fastest way to build confidence is to contribute more. I also share a simple but life-changing morning routine that helped me rebuild my confidence after major health challenges. Whether you're just starting out or looking to take your confidence to the next level, you’ll walk away from this conversation with practical tools to change your life. Confidence isn’t about being fearless—it’s about taking action despite the fear. When you learn to trust yourself and create small wins every day, you become unstoppable. Let’s get to work. You’ll Learn: ✅ The real reason people struggle with accountability ✅ Why confidence is built on small, daily habits —not big wins ✅ The connection between momentum and self-belief ✅ How to stop comparing yourself to others and own your journey ✅ The morning routine that transformed my confidence This is your time. Start keeping the promises you make to yourself—and watch your life change. Let’s go! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…
Innovation Secrets from Inside Microsoft If you're not innovating, your competition is. That’s the world we live in. Microsoft didn’t become one of the most dominant companies on the planet by accident—it built a culture of constant reinvention, adaptation, and innovation. And today, we're bringing you the inside track on how to apply those same principles to your business and life. I’m joined by my co-host, the incredible Candy Valentino , as we sit down with Dean Carignan and JoAnn Garbin , two Chief Innovation Officers at Microsoft , who played a pivotal role in driving the company’s billion-dollar breakthroughs. They’re here to pull back the curtain on what it really takes to stay ahead of the curve , build a culture of innovation , and apply the strategies of billion-dollar companies to your own business and life . Dean and JoAnn share the real secrets behind innovation—the kind that doesn’t just create new ideas but actually makes them succeed . From the power of "double-loop learning" to how AI is changing the game for entrepreneurs , this episode is packed with strategies you can implement right now to get an edge. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Why “learn fast” beats “fail fast” every time ✅ The one metric Microsoft uses that small businesses should adopt ✅ How Think Weeks and Hack Weeks can transform your business (even if you’re a solopreneur) ✅ Why self-disruption is the key to staying relevant and avoiding complacency ✅ How AI can cover your weaknesses and free you up to do what you love ✅ The #1 enemy of innovation —and how to overcome it If you’re looking for the blueprint for lasting success , this conversation is for you. Max out and share this with someone who needs to hear it! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…
Are You Playing Chess or Checkers With Your Life? Most people go through life playing checkers—reacting to what’s in front of them, making moves one at a time with no long-term strategy. But those who truly win? They’re playing chess. They’re creating patterns, structures, and behaviors that set them up for success at the highest level. In this episode, we’re breaking down a concept that has fascinated me—how much of our behavior is inherited, and how much is learned? If alligators instinctively know how to survive freezing temperatures without ever being taught, what does that mean for us? Could we be operating on deep-seated patterns that go back generations? And if that’s true, how do we break free and build the life we were meant to live? The key isn’t endless self-analysis. Too many people spend their lives looking back, trying to dissect every piece of their past instead of stepping forward into their future. Your ability to adapt—to create new structures, new habits, and new ways of thinking—is what determines whether you stay stuck or level up. The thoughts and behaviors that got you here won’t take you to the next level. At some point, you have to stop asking why everything happened to you and start asking what you’re going to do next. You have a mission, a purpose, and a calling. That’s why you’re still here. It’s time to build the structure that will take you where you were always meant to go. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: ✅ Why self-reflection is valuable—but self-analysis can hold you back ✅ How to identify patterns in your life that may be inherited, not chosen ✅ The one mindset shift that separates people who stay stuck from those who elevate ✅ Why adaptation—not just understanding—is the key to success ✅ How to build new habits and structures that align with your next level Your best days aren’t behind you. They’re still ahead—if you’re willing to make the necessary changes. Max out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…
Is Your Gut Controlling Your Mind? What if I told you that your thoughts, cravings, and even your personality might not be coming from your brain—but from your gut? Today, I sit down with Dr. Steven Gundry , a world-renowned cardiothoracic surgeon and best-selling author, to uncover the shocking truth about the gut-brain connection and how the bacteria in your gut could be running the show. For years, we've been told that mental health is all about brain chemistry. But Dr. Gundry reveals that your gut microbiome directly influences your mood, cognition, and even addictions . Whether it's sugar, alcohol, or even opioids, the bacteria in your gut can literally create cravings, fuel addiction, and manipulate your behavior . And if that doesn’t wake you up, he also shares how healing your gut can help reverse depression, anxiety, and even improve your personality . We also break down the hidden dangers in your diet , from glyphosate (a common herbicide) to ultra-processed foods that are destroying your gut lining and wreaking havoc on your health. Plus, Dr. Gundry gives practical steps to rebuild your microbiome , including the power of fermented foods, the dangers of certain antibiotics, and the key nutrients your gut NEEDS to thrive. This episode is a game-changer —whether you’re looking to improve your mental clarity, kick an addiction, or just take your health to the next level. Listen up, take notes, and start paying attention to your gut—because it might be the real driver of your life. Key Takeaways: How your gut bacteria control your cravings and addictions The surprising link between gut health and mental health disorders Why antibiotics and common foods are wrecking your microbiome The #1 nutrient missing from most people’s diets A simple step-by-step plan to heal your gut and transform your brain Dr. Gundry dropped some eye-opening truths in this one, and I know it’s going to change lives. Go grab his new book, “The Gut-Brain Paradox,” and share this episode with someone who needs it. Max out! 🚀 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…
The Secret to Transforming Your Life Starts in Your Mind What if the key to changing your entire life was as simple as shifting your mindset? In this episode, I bring together some of the most brilliant minds—Garrain Jones, Mauricio Umansky, Tom Bilyeu, and Tim Grover—to break down the undeniable power of your thoughts and how they shape your reality. Garrain Jones shares how forgiving those who hurt him, even the men who murdered his father, unlocked an entirely new level of freedom and success in his life. Mauricio Umansky reveals why financial success has nothing to do with wealth itself and everything to do with mindset. Tom Bilyeu exposes the lie that talent is enough and how he went from an "empty dreamer" to building billion-dollar businesses. And Tim Grover, the man who trained legends like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, explains why the obsession to win is what separates the best from everyone else. Each of these incredible minds offers a different perspective, but the message is the same: your mindset controls your reality. Whether it’s forgiveness, confidence, discipline, or the hunger to win, mastering your mind is the first step toward transforming your life. Key Takeaways: - Forgiveness is freedom – Letting go of resentment clears space for abundance. - Success doesn’t equal happiness – Your mindset determines your joy, not money. - Talent is a myth – Skills and success come from relentless effort, not natural ability. - Winners don’t just compete, they dominate – The greatest aren’t just good; they win at winning. - Your past doesn’t define you – Whether you were broke, doubted, or stuck, your mindset can rewrite your future. At the end of the day, success isn't reserved for the chosen few. It’s for those who make the decision to change, who commit to their growth, and who refuse to settle. Your mindset isn’t just a part of your journey—it is the journey. So, what are you doing today to start transforming your life? Thank you for watching this video—Please Share it and get the word out! What part of this video resonated with you the most? Comment below! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…
What if the smallest changes in your daily routine could unlock the biggest results in your life? In this solo episode, I’m breaking down 20 daily habits that have made a massive difference in my life. Some of these are simple, some are unexpected, and a few I’ve never shared before. The truth is, success isn’t just about major breakthroughs—it’s about stacking the right habits every single day. The way you start your morning, the way you fuel your body, the way you set up your environment—it all matters. These aren’t just theories; these are the habits I live by. And when you start applying them, you’ll notice how the small things compound into something much bigger. I’ll walk you through everything from the "Let Me Tell You About You" video habit that strengthens relationships to the importance of seeing the sky before your screen in the morning. We’ll talk about structuring your to-do list, the science of hydration, and why touching your dreams—literally—can rewire your mind for success. And maybe most importantly, I’ll challenge you to set boundaries, protect your energy, and say "no" more often—because every time you say no to the wrong thing, you’re saying yes to the right one. The difference between winning and losing is often so small, it’s almost scary to talk about—but I’m going to talk about it. Because the right habits don’t just make you more productive; they transform the way you show up in your life. In this episode, you’ll learn: The ONE habit that will instantly improve your focus every morning Why sending three short videos a day can strengthen your relationships How walking daily can change your mindset and unlock creativity The truth about caffeine and how to use it without hurting your energy Why "touching your dreams" makes them more likely to become reality The surprising link between clutter and success How waking up 15 minutes earlier can change the way you approach your day The power of mental rehearsal and why you need to start doing it It’s time to stack the right habits and set yourself up to win. Which of these are you going to start today? Listen now and take control of the small details that make a big difference. Max out! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…
What separates the good from the legendary? In this conversation, I sit down with my longtime friend and one of the most influential forces in sports, entertainment, and culture—Constance Schwartz-Morini. She’s the mastermind behind some of the biggest names in the game—Michael Strahan, Snoop Dogg, Wiz Khalifa, Coach Prime, Erin Andrews, and the Bella Twins. And today, she’s pulling back the curtain on what it really takes to build a brand, create opportunities, and dominate multiple industries. Constance is a visionary. She doesn’t just manage talent—she sees limitless potential in people before they even see it in themselves. She’s the reason Michael Strahan went from NFL legend to media powerhouse. She encouraged Coach Prime to step into the head coaching role when no one else believed he could. And she’s built SMAC Entertainment into more than a talent management company—it’s a business incubator that helps people win big. In this episode, she shares the mindset, strategy, and work ethic required to turn ideas into reality. If you’ve ever doubted your ability to build something great—this episode will change that. Constance talks about her journey from being an assistant at the NFL to becoming a power player in multiple industries. She reveals how she negotiates deals at the highest level, the brutal truth about building a business, and why the best brands aren’t built on hype—they’re built on authenticity. You’ll also hear the untold stories behind the brands you know—how Erin Andrews turned a simple frustration into a multimillion-dollar apparel company, how Taylor Swift wearing her jacket changed everything, and why the best entrepreneurs never stop evolving. Key Takeaways:Why certainty is the key to influence—and how to use it to win. This one’s packed with insights that will change the way you think about business, branding, and success. Don’t just listen—apply it. Max out! 🔥 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…
The Hidden Gift Inside Every Setback What if the biggest failures in your life were actually setting you up for something far greater? In this episode, I sit down with some of the best to ever do it—Troy Aikman, Phil Mickelson, Sean Casey, Dean Graziosi, and Brendon Burchard—to break down how setbacks can be the turning point that leads to your greatest success. Troy Aikman opens up about his brutal 0-11 rookie season and how he refused to let failure define him, going on to win three Super Bowls. Phil Mickelson shares how one of his most painful losses in golf led to his most unexpected victory. Sean Casey talks about how learning to see failure as feedback transformed his approach in baseball and in life. Dean Graziosi reveals the deeply personal decision that changed the course of his life, and Brendon Burchard explains why fear of failure is often the thing keeping us from our highest potential. This episode is a masterclass in resilience, mindset, and learning how to turn setbacks into stepping stones. No matter what challenge you're facing, you’ll walk away with the tools and perspective to see it as an opportunity rather than an obstacle. Key Takeaways: - How Troy Aikman went from 0-11 to Super Bowl champion by refusing to lose confidence. - Why Phil Mickelson’s greatest career disappointment led directly to his biggest victory. - The mindset shift that allows elite performers to use failure as fuel. - How to break free from the fear of what others think and finally take action. - Why your biggest challenges may actually be the setup for your biggest wins. Your failures don’t define you—how you respond to them does. The road to your greatest achievements will be paved with setbacks, but if you’re willing to keep going, the other side holds everything you’ve been working for. Thank you for watching this video—Please Share it and get the word out! What part of this video resonated with you the most? Comment below! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…
Are you carrying weights that are holding you back? Most people think success is about adding more—more habits, more strategies, more effort. But what if the real secret is dropping what no longer serves you? The truth is, your ability to rise is directly connected to what you’re willing to let go of. Whether it’s toxic relationships, limiting beliefs, or bad habits, the weights in your life are keeping you from elevating to the next level. In this episode, I’m sharing 12 life lessons that have shaped my journey—truths that will help you break free and move forward. These aren’t just theories; they come from personal experience, the mistakes I’ve made, and the lessons I’ve learned. From understanding the power of forgiveness to realizing that waiting for the “perfect time” is a trap, these lessons will help you create real momentum in your life. One of the biggest wake-up calls? You will lose 60-80% of your friends when you upgrade your life. Not everyone is meant to go with you on your journey. And that’s okay. Growth demands change, and part of that means letting go of relationships that no longer align with your future. As you evolve, your circle will get smaller, but it will also get stronger. So ask yourself—who do you want to be? Because in life, we don’t just get what we want, we get who we are. And the best part? You’re just one decision away from changing your life. Key Takeaways: The fastest way to elevate your life is to drop the weights holding you down. Stop blaming others—forgive, let go, and move forward. Waiting for the “right time” is a lie—take action now. Not everyone is meant to stay in your life—embrace the growth. You’re always one decision away from a new direction. Your past does not equal your future. Your life is in your hands. Now is the time to step into the next version of you. Max out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…
Would You Go Through Your Worst Pain Again? Imagine facing an event so catastrophic that doctors give you a 1% chance to live. Now, imagine coming out the other side not only surviving but running a marathon just three years later. That’s the reality of today’s guest, Matt Long. Matt was a firefighter, an athlete, and a man in peak physical condition when life threw him under the bus—literally. A tragic accident left him with devastating injuries, five months in the hospital, 43 surgeries, and a battle not just for his body but for his will to live. There were moments when he questioned if it was worth it, when the pain and uncertainty nearly broke him. But it was in those moments that he discovered something most people never will—what he was truly made of. His story isn’t just about survival. It’s about rebuilding, redefining what’s possible, and finding purpose in the pain. Matt didn’t just fight his way back—he made his tragedy his testimony, using his experience to inspire others to keep pushing forward. Whether you’re facing loss, failure, or adversity, this conversation is a wake-up call that you are stronger than you think. Matt shares the brutal truth about what it takes to fight through life’s hardest moments and how he found the strength to start dreaming again. And at the end of it all, when asked if he’d take the easy way out—if he’d let that bus miss him—his answer will leave you speechless. Key Takeaways: How Matt found purpose in his pain and why it changed his life. The one conversation that reignited his will to live. Why setting new goals—no matter how impossible—can change your mindset. The real reason why your hardest moments might be the best thing to ever happen to you. How to rebuild yourself when life hits you like a bus (literally or metaphorically). You’re going to walk away from this one with a whole new perspective on what’s possible in your own life. If Matt can come back from this, what excuse do you have? Let’s go. Max out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…
Are you truly living your dream, or are you just getting comfortable in your suffering? This mashup episode is packed with transformative wisdom from some of the most resilient and inspiring minds on the planet. Together with Susan Cain, David Goggins, John Assaraf, and Jasmine Star, we explore what it takes to escape the prisons we create in our own minds and start living with purpose, freedom, and intention. You’ll hear from Susan Cain about the power of embracing your emotions and how simple practices like expressive writing can help you find clarity and move forward. David Goggins reveals the transformative impact of enduring pain and why embracing the hard stuff is key to discovering your full potential. John Assaraf shares practical strategies to align your goals with your self-image and conquer the fear of change, while Jasmine Star offers insight into keeping perspective and showing up authentically, even when life feels overwhelming. The recurring theme? The real growth happens when you stop chasing comfort and start chasing your potential. Key Takeaways: - The Prison of Comfort: How chasing short-term ease keeps you from long-term fulfillment and the steps you can take to unlock your own mental and emotional freedom. - The Role of Pain: David Goggins explains why pain is temporary but suffering is a choice—and how to use pain as a gateway to transformation. - Practical Emotional Strategies: Susan Cain introduces tools like expressive writing and loving-kindness meditation to help process difficult emotions. - Mastering Change: John Assaraf outlines four barriers to success and why becoming an “adaptationist” is the key to overcoming them. - Reframing Your Vision: Insights from Jasmine Star on maintaining focus, even when life throws unexpected challenges your way. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a routine or trapped by fear, this episode will challenge you to take the keys you already hold and open the door to the life you’re meant to live. Let today be the day you stop just surviving and start truly living. Thank you for watching this video—Please Share it and get the word out! What part of this video resonated with you the most? Comment below! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…
Time is the most precious resource we have. Yet, how often do we let it slip away without realizing its true value? In this episode, I break down one of the most transformative strategies that has shaped my life, career, and relationships. It's all about how you view, manage, and honor time—not just for yourself, but for everyone around you. We all have the same 24 hours in a day, but how you use those hours is what separates a life of regret from a life of fulfillment. I'll share a unique approach that helped me turn each day into three "mini-days," redefining productivity, efficiency, and reflection. This isn't about working nonstop—it's about compressing time to create more opportunities for success and joy in every aspect of your life. You'll also learn why valuing your time makes others value it, too, and how treating every moment with intention can transform not just your output, but your outlook on life. Plus, I'll reveal a personal story about how recognizing the scarcity of time reshaped my relationships and deepened my gratitude. This isn't just a strategy for success—it's a mindset shift that can unlock a more abundant, fulfilling, and peaceful life. Key Takeaways: Why your relationship with time determines your happiness, health, and wealth. The concept of "mini-days" and how it can revolutionize your productivity. How to reflect, recalibrate, and maximize your impact—three times a day. Why scarcity creates value and how to make your time feel more precious. Practical tips for avoiding the trap of wasted time and procrastination. Remember, every second counts. Let’s start treating our minutes like the treasures they are and live a life that’s truly maxed out. Max out, and let’s win together! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…
Imagine growing up in a tiny town where the streetlights are candy canes, and the population barely breaks 2,000. From North Pole, Alaska, to building a nine-figure apparel empire, Heidi Somers Guzman—better known as Buff Bunny—has a story that will challenge how you think about fear, failure, and success. Heidi turned heartbreak and setbacks into stepping stones to create the Buff Bunny Collection, one of the most empowering brands for women worldwide. In this episode, Heidi shares the pivotal moments that shaped her journey, from confronting her "inner mean girl" to taking a leap of faith with a one-way ticket to the lower 48. We unpack her transition from shy homeschooled kid to social media trailblazer, and how her decision to "date herself" for a year completely transformed her confidence and outlook on life. You’ll hear how she tackled her fear of the gym and turned it into a brand that inspires women to embrace their strength—physically, emotionally, and mentally. Heidi’s story isn’t just about business; it’s about resilience, purpose, and staying true to your values, even when the world tries to tell you otherwise. If you’ve ever felt stuck, unsure, or afraid to take that first step, Heidi’s journey will remind you that greatness isn’t reserved for the extraordinary—it’s earned by those willing to try. Key Takeaways: How embracing your imperfections can connect you to your audience—and yourself. The life-changing power of "dating yourself" and rediscovering your self-worth. Why starting with zero knowledge is no excuse for not chasing your dreams. The importance of listening to your community and creating solutions they truly need. How to navigate loss, burnout, and uncertainty while still pursuing your vision. This conversation will leave you inspired to take action, whether it’s launching your business, loving yourself more, or simply believing that you’re capable of greatness. Remember, the keys to your next chapter are in your hands—grab them and go. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…
How Your Greatest Challenges Can Shape Your Legacy What if the very messes you’ve faced in life—your mistakes, setbacks, and darkest moments—are actually your greatest qualifications to create impact and help others? In this episode, I reflect on this transformative idea with stories from some incredible guests: Jon Gordon, Jamie Kern Lima, Ryan Hawk, and Lewis Howes. Together, we explore what it truly means to harness the “power of one more” and use it to transform not only your life but the lives of those around you. I share intimate stories about my father’s journey from addiction to becoming a quiet force of redemption for others. Jon opens up about being an imperfect parent and finding forgiveness in change. Jamie dives into how staying connected to your dreams fuels creativity, and Ryan and Lewis reveal how intention and belief shape real leadership. These conversations remind us that leadership isn’t about being perfect; it’s about showing up fully, embracing your story, and helping others see the greatness in themselves. You’ll leave this episode with not just inspiration but actionable tools to live with deeper intention, break free from limiting beliefs, and understand how the ripple effect of your actions could create a legacy you’d be proud of. Key Takeaways: - Why your most difficult experiences might be your greatest tools for impact. - The “power of one more” mindset: how it creates momentum and transforms lives. - How to operate from imagination and dreams rather than memory and history. - The essence of leadership: crafting a vision big enough for others to find their dreams within it. - The importance of forgiving yourself and others to unlock deeper growth. No matter where you are in your journey, this episode will challenge you to embrace your imperfections and use them to create something extraordinary. Let’s start writing the best chapters of your life—starting now. Thank you for watching this video—Please Share it and get the word out! What part of this video resonated with you the most? Comment below! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…
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