Episodes

  • Is Success an Addiction? Exploring the Mindset of a Champion with Dana Cavalea

    Is Success an Addiction? Exploring the Mindset of a Champion with Dana Cavalea
    Jun 2 2024
    What sets a champion apart from the rest? Is it raw talent, unyielding determination, or perhaps a bit of luck? While these factors undoubtedly play a role, there’s a less obvious, yet crucial, component to their success: habits. Champions, whether in sports, business, or life, cultivate specific habits that propel them to the top and keep them there.In this episode, Paul is joined by Dana Cavalea, the renowned high-performance coach (most notably of the New York Yankees) and author of "Habits of a Champion." Their conversation delves deep into the mindset of a champion, the nuanced understanding of success, and the journey towards self-discovery and internal validation.Dana shares insights on achieving success and cultivating a champion's mindset. He discusses the addictive nature of success and the importance of setting boundaries. Emphasizing the alignment of daily habits with goals, Dana speaks on self-discovery and the quest for internal validation over external applause. He advises on adapting to situations, redefining expectations, and the risks of success addiction. Drawing from his coaching experience, Dana encourages embracing uncertainty and facing challenges with courage, offering guidance to those seeking excellence. Key TakeawaysDana Cavalea's insights on success and high performanceThe concept of success as an addiction and the importance of setting limits and boundariesAligning daily habits with desired outcomesThe process of self-discovery and finding internal validationAdapting to different situations and redefining timelines and expectationsChallenges of determining how much success is enoughPotential pitfalls of becoming addicted to validation and achievementDana's experiences as a coach and personal journeyEmbracing uncertainty and approaching challenges with courageGuidance for listeners striving for excellence In This Episode[00:26] -Introduction to Dana Cavalea[02:12] -Defining a champion[03:53] -Reverse engineering and adjusting strategies[06:54] -Self-discovery and adjusting mindset[11:21] -Clarity and confidence[14:44] -Pressure, timelines, and decision-making[18:05] -Internal validation and courage[19:47] -Defining success and setting limits[22:05] -Success as an addiction[25:51] -Consequences of obsession[28:40] -Love to win vs. hate to lose[34:57] -Winning the first 120 minutes of Monday Notable Quotes[02:12] "Anybody could be a champion if they're willing to do what it takes to be a champion." -Dana Cavalea[03:19] "Your daily habits lead to the outcomes which make you a champion or a chump, as I like to say."-Dana Cavalea[09:14] "When you stop looking for external validation and start to validate yourself, that's the greatest strength someone can have."-Dana Cavalea[23:47] "He got so addicted to the success that he was dismantling right in front of himself, and he didn't see it."-Dana Cavalea[24:47']"My gym business is basically collapsing because I built it so fast, because I so badly wanted to succeed, and I was overcompensating for a previous relationship."-Dana Cavalea Our GuestDana Cavalea, a distinguished High-Performance Executive Coach, led the New York Yankees to a 2009 World Series win as Director of Performance. He now coaches CEOs, executives, private equity partners, venture capitalists, and corporate teams, bringing sports culture to business to enhance performance and achieve sustainable success. Resource & LinksWin Monday Community (join here)Win Monday CommunityPaul EpsteinPaul's Confidence QuizPaul's WebsitePaul's LinkedIn to ConnectPaul's Instagram to FollowDana Cavaleahttps://danacavalea.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/danacavaleahttps://www.instagram.com/therealcoachdhttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTzgH9tgy--ekdtX7BprOEwMentioned Dana Cavalier's Book 'Habits of a ChampionBetter Decisions Faster Book by Paul Epstein
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    37 mins
  • Paul's Take #20: Making Every Day a Win: The Importance of Maintaining Work-Life Harmony

    Paul's Take #20: Making Every Day a Win: The Importance of Maintaining Work-Life Harmony
    May 26 2024

    Are you ready to discover the secret to peak performance and ultimate fulfillment? In this bonus episode of Win Monday, host Paul Epstein unveils the transformative power of the 'flow state' and how merging your passion with your profession can lead to extraordinary success. Join us as special guest Jennifer Lier shares her captivating journey with yoga, revealing how it became her pathway to experiencing this optimal state of consciousness where she feels and performs at her best.

    Paul also explores the crucial role of community and connection in achieving our goals. Tune in to gain actionable insights on balancing your passions with your responsibilities, creating a harmonious blend that fosters a life of fulfillment and achievement. Don’t miss this chance to transform your approach to work and life!

    Key Takeaways:

    • The magic of the flow state and how it can transform your daily experiences.
    • Combining your passion with your career can lead to a more fulfilling and successful professional life.
    • The delicate balance between pursuing your passions and meeting your responsibilities, and how to achieve this harmony in your life.

    In this episode:

    • [03:53]: Struggling with passions versus responsibilities
    • [04:46]: How to integrate passion into work life
    • [05:37]: Strategies for achieving dreams and goals
    • [06:03]: Finding your personal "yoga"

    Notable Quotes:

    • “All these things that can cripple and paralyze so many from their dreams or goals, their ambitions, everything that's future focused in a positive light. But she didn't let those get in the way because she was determined based on listening to the cues and signals that changed and transformed her life.” - Paul
    • “You don't need to burn the boats. You don't need to go all in maybe yet, but even if you always keep it on the side, the only mistake is ignoring it. The only mistake is not doing it.” - Paul

    Resource & Links

    Paul Epstein

    • Join the Win Monday Community: https://www.paulepsteinspeaks.com/win-monday
    • Take the Confidence Quiz: https://www.paulepsteinspeaks.com/confidence-quiz
    • https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulepsteinspeaks/
    • https://www.paulepsteinspeaks.com/
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    7 mins
  • How to Show Up Biggest Under the Brightest Lights: The Role of Authenticity and Mindfulness in Peak Performance

    How to Show Up Biggest Under the Brightest Lights: The Role of Authenticity and Mindfulness in Peak Performance
    May 19 2024
    Are you caught between who you are and what the world expects you to be? It's a struggle many of us face. In this episode, we dive into reconnecting with the passions that once made your heart sing but seemed lost along the way. Learn how to stay true to yourself amidst life's chaos.Join Paul as he sits down with Jennifer Lier, a Keynote Speaker, Conference Strategist, and Entertainment Consultant.Jennifer shares her 25-year journey in the entertainment industry, from her early passion for music to her struggles with confidence, body image, and career challenges. She reveals how yoga and Ayurveda transformed her life, helping her find inner peace and self-understanding.Together, Jennifer and Paul discuss the significance of self-awareness, authenticity, and shedding societal pressures to embrace your true self. They delve into optimal performance, highlighting the importance of adaptability and presence over peak outcomes. Jennifer emphasizes vulnerability and transparency in building relationships and offers valuable advice on approaching life with a winning mindset. Key TakeawaysThe importance of staying true to oneself despite industry pressures and personal challenges.Reconnecting with authenticity and care in earlier career stagesYoga and spirituality can offer profound self-understandingSelf-awareness leads to better life choicesSocietal expectations are not mandatoryOptimal performance is about adaptability In This Episode:[00:03] The journey into entertainment [02:32] Jennifer's passion for music and early experiences [10:33] Overcoming confidence gaps [13:38] The importance of taking risks, embracing youth[17:06] Trusting the younger self [18:49] Jennifer’s struggle with anxiety and the journey of self-discovery [19:41] The transformative power of yoga [22:54] The importance of self-awareness [24:08] Finding clarity and purpose [26:47] Discovering passion and purpose [30:10] Overcoming societal expectations [34:12] Embracing self-acceptance [36:02] Empowering confidence [37:15] Optimal performance vs peak performance [38:27] Jennifer's curiosity and mindset study [39:25] Recognizing authenticity and passion [40:36] Connecting through vulnerability [42:08] Jennifer;s strategies for winning Mondays Notable Quotes[02:32] "It's interesting because I think, well first of all, I fell into entertainment. It wasn't anything that I ever thought that I was going to have a path on."-Jennifer[07:33] "It's a whole different feeling to know who you are and to know what you're wanting to get out of that."-Jennifer[10:38] “No matter what, I wanted to be on those stages and I didn't care how I looked or how I felt.”- Jennifer[20:57] “My yoga journey, which changed my world that year, and I wanted to share it with others. And that's why I still teach every single thing.” -Jennifer[00:21:36] “We don't move forward with something when we're thinking outside of ourselves.”-Jennifer[39:39] “I knew you can tell when people are doing things just for the money or just to survive the night, and I get that. We all need to make money to thrive and to be able to provide for our families."-Jennifer[42:08] "The wisdom comes from within, and you can only hear the whisper within when you're breathing and when you're quiet and when you're grounded."-Jennifer Our GuestJennifer Lier, a versatile professional, joined the Executive Speakers Bureau in 2019, bringing nearly five years of leadership at National Keynote Speakers. Formerly, she spearheaded Polaroid's event space and enjoyed a 25-year career as a singer, actor, and model. Jennifer's adeptness in corporate event sales and her talent for matching speakers with clients' needs earned her industry recognition, including the 2019 Dotty Walters Award. Actively engaged in her Las Vegas community, Jennifer also teaches yoga and occasionally graces the city's stages with her music. Resource & LinksWin Monday Community (join here)Win Monday CommunityPaul EpsteinPaul's Confidence QuizPaul's WebsitePaul's LinkedIn to ConnectPaul's Instagram to FollowJennifer Lierhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-lier-22246b53/https://www.instagram.com/jennifer_lier/
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    43 mins
  • Unstoppable Momentum, Your Path to Confident Decision-Making: Insights from Paul Epstein

    Unstoppable Momentum, Your Path to Confident Decision-Making: Insights from Paul Epstein
    May 12 2024
    What if I told you that confidence holds the power to transform your entire life? Picture this: the exhilaration of a 15-year journey in the NFL and NBA, where confidence becomes the currency and the competitive advantage that separates the greatest leaders from the rest. Now, imagine yourself in the shoes of these exceptional individuals. What did they do differently? How did they make decisions that set them apart?In this special episode of Win Monday, Paul Epstein sits down, as guest, with Flow Over Fear Podcast’s Adam Hill, as they delve into his professional journey through the NFL and NBA. Paul discusses the pivotal role of confidence and value-driven decision-making in cultivating successful teams and cultures. Drawing from his book "Better Decisions Faster," Paul provides a framework for confident decision-making, advocating for action over outcome and embracing imperfection. He introduces the "head, heart, hands" equation as a guide for navigating choices and building unshakable confidence through alignment with core values. The discussion also touches on the "Win Monday" movement, aiming to inspire passion and momentum in both work and life. Key TakeawaysPaul Epstein's experience in the NFL and NBA.Confidence is crucial for effective leadership.Decision-making is impacted by fear and anxiety.Creating championship teams requires a specific culture."Better Decisions Faster" provides a framework for confident decision-making.Decision-making involves the "head, heart, hands" equation.Values play a significant role in decision-making and confidence-building.The "Win Monday" movement focuses on integrating work and life.It's important to take imperfect action and learn from mistakes.There are actionable strategies for decision-making and confidence enhancement. In This Episode:[00:11] Paul's 15-year journey in the NFL and NBA[02:26] The idea of putting off decisions [03:19] The concept of fear and regret [07:33] The concept of imperfect action over outcome [10:21] The forces of better decisions [14:33] The head heart hands equation [18:57] The formula "confidence equals values times action" [21:25] Paul's pre-confidence life and post-confidence life [22:56] Paul’s early career challenges [25:45] Paul's career progression from the LA Clippers to the NFL league office[27:51] Finding core values [30:33] The significance of values as a north star [33:21] Confidence as a dimmer switch [35:41] Impact of core values on decision-making [39:02] Realization of career direction [41:10] Values and Decision-making [42:17] Confidence and Decision-making [43:27] A survey result about career aspirations in the sports industry [44:25] Challenges of Leadership [47:22]The bigger fear [52:59] Work-Life Harmony [53:45] The concept of "Win Monday" [56:49] Call to Action Notable Quotes[03:19] "We all feel this doubt, 'What if I make the wrong decision? What are the consequences? What's the negative ripple effect?' - Paul[04:11]” People are hard-wired to fear the unknown. We're also hard-wired to fear the shots that we never took.” - Paul[07:43]"Social media is the top 0.00001% of people's lives, and then comparison is the thief of joy." - Paul[11:39] “This maturation, from clarity to confidence to conviction to courage, those are the forces of better decisions faster.” - Paul[14:38] “Your head is your mindset, your heart is your authenticity and hands are action.” - Paul[24:48]"Everybody knows that nothing was given to you. You had to be scrappy, tenacious, and have the mental fortitude. - Paul[47:22] "Every day you're with the wrong person is a day you're not with the right person." - Paul[52:17] “Focus on the micro-actions. Stop thinking about the big leap.” - Paul About Flow Over Fear Podcast with Adam HillAdam Hill and his distinguished guests dissect the fundamental elements of flow, including the strategies, techniques, and frameworks that propel them to the top 1% of their respective fields. Among the guests are prominent athletes, CEOs, entrepreneurs, leaders, and inspirational figures, all sharing their stories of courage, conviction, and compassion. Resource & LinksWin Monday Community (join here)Win Monday CommunityPaul EpsteinPaul's Confidence QuizPaul's WebsitePaul's LinkedIn to ConnectPaul's Instagram to FollowAdam Hillhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/adamchill/Podcast: Flow Over Fear
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    57 mins
  • Paul’s Take #19: Embracing Self-Disruption: Finding Your Green Light for Personal and Professional Growth

    Paul’s Take #19: Embracing Self-Disruption: Finding Your Green Light for Personal and Professional Growth
    May 5 2024

    Get ready to embrace your "green lights" – those moments of clarity that signal it's time to take action – in this uplifting episode with Paul. Inspired by his thought-provoking chat with sports business expert Brian Lafemina, Paul dives into the concept of self-disruption and its role in personal and professional growth. Discover how finding your own "green light" can spark motivation and propel you toward success, and why stepping out of your comfort zone is essential for progress. Drawing from personal experiences and reflections on his late father's influence, Paul encourages listeners to uncover their own sources of inspiration. Explore practical strategies for achieving success with "Monday Momentum" and join the podcast community on a journey of collective growth and development.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Self-disruption is the key to unlocking personal growth.
    • Growth requires stepping out of your comfort zone and embracing discomfort.
    • Aligning your thoughts, feelings, and actions helps you recognize your "green lights."
    • "Monday Momentum" provides actionable tips for success on a daily and weekly basis.
    • Making decisions based on passion, intellect, and action leads to meaningful growth.
    • Personal growth is fueled by individual motivations and sources of inspiration.

    In This Episode:

    • [01:14] Self-disruption and growth
    • [03:49] The power of green lights

    Notable Quotes

    • [01:14] "Self-disruption is not about fixing something broken; it's about climbing, accelerating, and growing, even when your LinkedIn profile is looking sexier by the day." -Paul
    • [02:31] “On the other side of that disruption is growth. We cannot be comfortable and grow simultaneously.” -Paul
    • [03:49] "A green light is when your head and heart are on board, so your hands follow with action." -Paul
    • [04:53] "My late father is my biggest green light; he's the reason I strive to make an impact and leave people and places better than I found them."– Paul

    Resource and Links

    Paul Epstein

    • Join the Win Monday Community: https://www.paulepsteinspeaks.com/win-monday
    • Take the Confidence Quiz: https://www.paulepsteinspeaks.com/confidence-quiz
    • https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulepsteinspeaks/
    • https://www.paulepsteinspeaks.com/
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    7 mins
  • A Playbook for Courageous Leadership and Championship Teams with Sports Icon Brian Lafemina

    A Playbook for Courageous Leadership and Championship Teams with Sports Icon Brian Lafemina
    Apr 28 2024

    Ever wondered what makes a championship team tick? It's not just about having talent; it's about rolling up your sleeves, rallying together, and daring to challenge the norms. And at the heart of it all? Trust and open communication.

    In this episode, Paul sits down for a chat with the incredible Brian Lafemina, a visionary who's left his mark on both the NFL and the LA 2028 Olympics.

    Their conversation dives deep into the idea of self-disruption and why it's so important to keep growing, even when you're already succeeding. Brian shares some fascinating stories from his work in Olympic hospitality, emphasizing the power of thinking outside the box. They also talk about what it takes to build a winning team – hard work, teamwork, and never being afraid to shake things up. Plus, they touch on the importance of trust and diversity when making decisions as a team. But it's not all serious stuff. Brian and Paul also swap stories about facing fears and finding the courage to do what's right, even when it's tough. And of course, they wrap things up with some practical advice for starting your week off on the right foot.

    Key Takeaways

    • Embrace self-disruption as a catalyst for personal growth, particularly amid periods of success.
    • Brian Lafemina's trajectory underscores the importance of perpetual learning and evolution.
    • Building a stellar team necessitates diligence, collaboration, and a willingness to challenge the status quo.
    • Trust, transparent communication, and diverse perspectives are indispensable for fostering innovation and team empowerment.
    • Leadership demands audacity and courage, including the willingness to do what's right regardless of potential repercussions.
    • Success preparation entails meticulous goal-setting and readiness to adapt to change.
    • The path to success is non-linear, demanding the right mindset and adaptability.

    In This Episode:

    • [00:17] Introduction to Brian Lafemina.
    • [01:58] Career disruptions and opportunities.
    • [06:11] Insight from working with Commissioner Goodell.
    • [07:33] Challenges and learnings from the role at Washington Redskins.
    • [13:34] Value of relational capital and authenticity.
    • [14:26] Transition to the LA 2028 Olympics.
    • [16:13] Humorous story about a snowstorm and salt.
    • [18:33] Disruption of self.
    • [23:05] Leading a championship culture.
    • [29:21] Life lessons and insights.
    • [30:24] Being brave.
    • [35:27] Starting the week right.

    Notable Quotes

    • [01:58]"Madison Square Garden, the New York Knicks, the New York Rangers, concerts—you name it, and I got an internship there, which was fantastic."-Brian
    • [07:33] "I love challenges and I love big opportunities, and I like taking big swings."-Brian
    • [09:36] "There are times in your career where you have choices to make, and you can take an expedient route or you can take the route that you know might be a little more challenging, but you believe that's the route to go down."-Brian
    • [30:51] "I encourage everybody to be bold, but more important than that, I want people to be brave."-Brian
    • [31:19] You can't go wrong by doing right."-Brian
    • [35:53] "Do the work before you get to Monday, and then you're going to win Monday."-Brian

    Our Guest

    • Brian Lafemina is a seasoned Sports and Entertainment Executive, renowned Board Member, and Senior Advisor. With a distinguished career, he served as Chief Business Officer for LA28 and President of the Washington Commanders. His expertise extends from the NFL to Madison Square Garden, demonstrating his profound impact in shaping and elevating the landscape of sports and entertainment.

    Resource & Links

    Win Monday Community (join here)

    • Win Monday Community

    Paul Epstein

    • Paul's Confidence Quiz
    • Paul's Website
    • Paul's LinkedIn to Connect
    • Paul's Instagram to Follow

    Brian Lafemina

    • https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-lafemina-65a67911/
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    37 mins
  • Paul’s Take #18: Embracing Adversity: Choosing Intention and Purpose to Create an Extraordinary Life

    Paul’s Take #18: Embracing Adversity: Choosing Intention and Purpose to Create an Extraordinary Life
    Apr 21 2024

    Join Paul in this engaging episode as he reflects on his recent chat with Scott McGregor, the driving force behind the Outlier Project. Together, they delve into the art of living an extraordinary life, finding silver linings in adversity, and the transformative magic of intentional living. Paul encourages listeners to carve out their own path to greatness, inspired by Scott's profound insights and infectious passion.

    Key Takeaways:

    • Get inspired by Scott's journey and his mission to transcend the ordinary.
    • Learn how facing challenges head-on can be a catalyst for personal growth and resilience.
    • Discover the importance of living each day with purpose and intention.
    • Understand that what makes life extraordinary is different for everyone and requires courage to pursue.
    • Take small steps every day towards your dreams, embracing each opportunity for greatness along the way.

    In This Episode:

    • [01:21] The storm of adversity
    • [02:33] Defining and pursuing an extraordinary life.
    • [04:01] No need for adversity to awaken urgency for extraordinary life

    Notable Quotes

    • [01:21] “Adversity can be a gift; it's what builds our resilience muscle.” -Paul
    • [02:34] "That is a choice on how we want to step forward into every day to live and earn an extraordinary life." -Paul
    • [04:01] "Anybody can be ordinary, but it's the rare few like us that can choose to be extraordinary."– Paul

    Resource and Links

    Paul Epstein

    • Join the Win Monday Community: https://www.paulepsteinspeaks.com/win-monday
    • Take the Confidence Quiz: https://www.paulepsteinspeaks.com/confidence-quiz
    • https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulepsteinspeaks/
    • https://www.paulepsteinspeaks.com/
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    6 mins
  • How to be an Outlier: The Pillars of an Extraordinary Life with Scott MacGregor

    How to be an Outlier: The Pillars of an Extraordinary Life with Scott MacGregor
    Apr 14 2024

    Join us as we chat with Scott MacGregor, the mastermind behind the Outlier Project, a global community empowering individuals to lead impactful lives.

    During our conversation, Scott opens up about what it takes to live life to the fullest. From making an impact to prioritizing health, finances, and relationships, he shares invaluable insights garnered from personal experiences and encounters with adversity. Discover how challenges have shaped Scott's outlook on life, including his battle with regatta syndrome, and learn how to cultivate a mindset of resilience and gratitude.

    But that's not all – Scott also delves into the importance of community support and the transformative power of genuine connections. Gain inspiration from the stories of extraordinary individuals and learn how to cultivate meaningful relationships that enrich your journey toward greatness.

    Key Takeaways

    • Scott's philosophy, "People Over Everything," prioritizes relationships.
    • Living an extraordinary life is a choice
    • An extraordinary life balances health, finances, career, learning, and relationships.
    • Health is foundational in life's priorities.
    • The Outlier Project supports entrepreneurs in extraordinary living.
    • Adversity is a gift
    • Resilience and unconventional paths are valued by extraordinary individuals.
    • Intentional, genuine relationships are crucial.
    • Gratitude and friendship shape life's journey..

    In This Episode:

    • [00:30] Introduction to Scott MacGregor.
    • [02:22] Overview of the Outlier Project.
    • [05:07] Common themes of living an extraordinary life.
    • [08:10] Balancing the five life buckets.
    • [11:01] Membership demographics of the Outlier Project.
    • [12:38] Information about the Outlier Project.
    • [14:03] Obstacles to living an extraordinary life.
    • [16:59] Scott's personal storms and adversity.
    • [23:34] Adversity as a gift.
    • [25:12] Scott’s perspective on adversity
    • [28:43] Lessons learnt from extraordinary people.
    • [32:38] Importance of intentional relationships.

    Notable Quotes

    • [02:41] “Technology is great. There's lots of great stuff out there, but nothing really supercharges an organization like people.”- Scott
    • [03:07] “Anybody can be ordinary. But we all have the power to choose to be extraordinary.”-Scott
    • [09:17] “If you don't have your health, you don't have anything.” Scott
    • [15:12] “The people you surround yourself with ultimately dictate a lot of how your life works out.”- Scott
    • [15:18] "Surround yourself with people that are really motivated to live an extraordinary life. It doesn't mean that they're hitting on all cylinders at all times, but that's their intention - Scott
    • [23:41] "Adversity is a gift because it makes you stronger and builds that resiliency.” - Scott

    Our Guest

    Scott MacGregor is the Founder & CEO of SomethingNew LLC and The Outlier Project, along with serving as Publisher & Editor-In-Chief of Outlier Magazine. A prolific author with four books in the "Standing O!" series, he's a record 8-time winner of the American Business Award for Innovation.

    Resource and Links

    Win Monday Community (join here)

    • Win Monday Community

    Paul Epstein

    • Paul's Confidence Quiz
    • Paul's Website
    • Paul's LinkedIn to Connect
    • Paul's Instagram to Follow

    Scott MacGregor

    • https://theoutlierproject.co/
    • https://www.linkedin.com/in/macgregorscott/
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    36 mins