by Gene Crawford | Aug 20, 2024 | Podcast
What does it take to truly command respect without coming off as arrogant? Uncover the secrets behind this delicate balance in our latest episode. We dive into the essence of respect in communication, sharing personal stories and valuable insights on empathy, active listening, and politeness. From meeting new people to professional interactions, find out how these foundational elements can shape and elevate your connections.
We also touch on the balance between expecting respectful interactions and avoiding an entitled attitude. Authenticity and respect in interactions are more than just concepts—they are practices we can master. We share insights from various settings, including concerts and gyms, emphasizing the power of genuine actions over fear-based respect. Reflecting on the importance of self-awareness and adaptability, especially in professional and martial arts contexts, we highlight how these principles can help maintain positive relationships.
(more…)
by Gene Crawford | Apr 29, 2024 | Podcast
Success is often clouded by self-doubt and the fear of being exposed as an imposter. In this latest episode Greg and I discuss overcoming these fears through authenticity and vulnerability.
We share our experiences with imposter syndrome and discuss the impact of societal pressures and curated social media. We offer insights from our backgrounds in business, martial arts, real estate, providing strategies to help you fight self-doubt.
We examine the role of external validation and emphasize the importance of internal metrics, highlighting Gary Vaynerchuk’s and Dr. Sean Pastuch’s insights. We define imposter syndrome and its various types, using personal stories to illustrate our journey through self-acceptance.
One significant takeaway is the struggle with pricing our worth. We discuss how the tension between commercial success and artistic integrity can fuel imposter feelings, especially when it comes to pricing and negotiation. We stress the importance of valuing one’s work and charging what one is truly worth.
Remember, imposter syndrome doesn’t define you. It’s a shared experience, and by confronting it with honesty and courage, we can all emerge victorious.
(more…)
by Gene Crawford | Apr 8, 2024 | Podcast
It’s time to dig into the ‘Flow State‘, that magical realm where passion and performance dance in perfect harmony. In this episode Greg and I talk through the art and science of optimal experience, where you can achieve peak performance not only in your professional life but also in your daily activities and hobbies.
Let’s break down the myth of multitasking and the paradox of self-awareness, shall we? It turns out, multitasking might not be the productivity hack we once thought it was. Instead, we learn that creating environments conducive to deep work is what leads to those breakthrough moments of innovation. We’ll look at how mindfulness and viewing failure as feedback can become gateways to achieving and sustaining flow. It’s all about the balance between skill and challenge, and how mindfulness practices can equip you to harness this powerful state of mind. Whether you’re crafting a masterpiece or crunching numbers, discovering how to cultivate conditions for flow can reshape the way you approach your passions and projects.
Here’s a sneak peek into some of the key moments from the episode:
- Exploring the Power of Flow State
- Characteristics of Flow State
- Finding and Sustaining Flow State
- Achieving Flow State in Work
- Achieving Flow State Through Mindfulness
Tune in, get inspired, and start your own journey to mastering flow state. Remember, focus on what matters, stay dedicated to your growth, and you’ll find yourself in the zone more often than not. Happy listening!
(more…)
by Gene Crawford | Mar 11, 2024 | Podcast
There are journeys that challenge the body, and then there are those that transform the soul. In this captivating episode we’re taken along on one such transformative journey—the Camino de Santiago.
The episode unfolds with Andrew Askins, where his tale becomes more than just an exploration of an ancient trail; it’s a testament to the bonds of friendship and the birth of unexpected passions. Andrew’s account of his spiritual and physical pilgrimage along the ancient Camino de Santiago reveals a profound truth: resilience and camaraderie are transformative powers that guide us through life’s challenging paths.
What is it about the Camino that inspires such profound reflection? Perhaps it’s the shared struggle, a “trauma bonding” of sorts, as Andrew suggests. There’s something about enduring the grueling task of a 500-mile hike that fosters deep connections, akin to those forged in the disciplined practice of martial arts or the challenges of running a business.
The episode is a call to embrace minimalism and the essence of life unveiled on an ancient trek of transformation. As Andrew shares reflections on the Camino, we’re reminded of the importance of taking a break to reset not just our minds but also our hearts. It’s an invitation to step off the beaten path and discover that the most rewarding destinations often lie beyond the familiar.
(more…)
by Gene Crawford | Feb 11, 2024 | Podcast
When Luke Nichols casts his line into the water, he’s not just fishing; he’s reeling in life lessons on the essence of modern masculinity. Similarly, Tony Polcari navigates the cityscape, his lifestyle a canvas showcasing how vibrant urban living aligns with ageless virtues. This episode stitches together the narratives of these two extraordinary men, revealing the tapestry of hard work, integrity, and respect that forms the core of genuine manhood. Their diverse paths converge on a shared truth: that masculinity, at its finest, is about nurturing without the need for showing off your outer strength.
Have you ever wondered how mental fortitude can be honed like a blade, sharp enough to cut through life’s toughest challenges? That’s precisely what Cam Haynes and David Goggins have mastered. Their insights form a critical part of our discussion on the power of directness and the art of difficult conversation. This episode becomes a crucible, transforming old-school virtues into modern-day strategies for anyone willing to embrace the journey toward self-awareness.
As the saying goes, the more things change, the more they stay the same. This rings true as we explore the ancient wisdom of the Bushido code, finding these ancient principles not just relevant but vital in our present-day hustle. Whether it’s the discipline of never dining alone or the transformative ‘I get to’ mindset, these values are the cornerstones of our daily interactions and personal standards.
I invite you to walk the path of discovery with me, carrying forward the lessons that have withstood the trials of time, for a tomorrow that’s built on the bedrock of integrity and self-improvement.
(more…)