Explore every episode of Growth Mixtape Podcast with Bob Mathers
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Pub. Date
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23 Jan 2024
Welcome to the Growth Mixtape Podcast
00:01:01
Hi, I'm Bob Mathers and welcome to the Growth Mixtape, a podcast where I talk to the most interesting people you may not have come across yet. I find that these conversations give me new insights and perspectives about topics I didn’t know existed.
Please join me for stories from engaging leaders in business, the sciences, academia and the arts. It is these unexpected collisions that I’m excited to explore in this new podcast; the further from our comfort zone, the better.
My goal in every episode is to provide you with a surprising insight that you can apply right now to get unstuck and start building the business and the life you've always wanted.
These conversations might not seem to have a lot in common at first. But just like songs on a mixtape, they create something memorable and emotional. So, let's press play and see what we learn about ourselves.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
Being Shameless & Oddball Brushes with Celebrity with Tricia Mumby
00:46:55
Tricia Mumby is a storyteller, entrepreneur and mentor to early-stage startups. Tricia is honest and vulnerable as she shares tough lessons from co-founding Mabel’s Labels with three best friends in a basement to selling it to the largest label company in the world.
Tricia shares her take on celebrating failure, keeping your innovative spirit alive as your business grows, being shameless, and how she’s worked to overcome imposter syndrome. Tricia shares first-hand experiences of entrepreneurs finally finding their tribes and how that’s propelled their businesses forward through viral marketing. Tricia and Bob also explore the power of community in engaging with customers - and how to maintain that elusive human connection as you grow.
Takeaways
Starting a business requires being shameless in pursuing opportunities.
Big companies should create innovation departments and foster a culture that embraces risk-taking and celebrates failures.
Mentors play a crucial role in providing guidance and support for entrepreneurs.
Reflecting on past experiences and skills can help individuals realize their uniqueness and true potential.
Creativity plays a significant role in business success, and finding inspiration from others can fuel innovation.
Engaging with customers and building a loyal community can lead to long-term success.
The human element is essential in both B2B and B2C interactions, and businesses should focus on connecting with individuals.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
Chasing Curiosity and Creativity to Carve Your Own Path with Rob Carli
00:47:43
Rob Carli is a multi-award-winning musician, producer and composer for film and television. Rob has had a storied career in music, from his early days touring the country in an Econoline van to most recently co-founding the Awesome Music Project, a not-for-profit dedicated to delivering practical solutions to mental health through the transformative power of music.
In this episode, Rob shares how people can find their creativity in the most unlikely of places and how staying curious can help carve out new paths you’d never have imagined for yourself. Rob believes it is our fear of judgment that holds us back from putting ourselves out there and that overcoming this is the key to reinventing yourself as your career evolves.
Rob also makes the case that as technology plays a larger role in our lives, we’ve lost intimacy with each other through simple rituals like cooking and sharing live music. Let’s get it back.
Takeaways
Creativity can be sparked by finding a state of mind where you are free from judgment and self-consciousness.
Work should be seen as a journey rather than a destination. You have never “made it”.
The narrative of careers is changing, and people are embracing multiple careers and diversifying their skills. Diversification and curiosity can lead to personal and professional growth.
Music can be a powerful tool for healing and improving mental health.
Rituals play a crucial role in creating a sense of purpose and connection.
For more information about Rob or to connect with him, check out these links:
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
Standing Out By Embracing Your Weird, Quirky Self with Kasey Jones
00:43:05
Kasey Jones coaches business leaders on the transformative process of building a personal brand. If you’re not sure what a personal brand is or why you need one, you’re not alone. Kasey makes the case that by embracing your quirkiness, you’ll stand out and be known for the rockstar that you are.
Kasey is a story-teller at heart. She shares practical tips on being vulnerable without over-sharing and overcoming the fear of putting yourself out there.
Bob and Kasey explore the downside of following “experts” on LinkedIn and how you can find your voice while experimenting and building your digital confidence. Finally, Kasey shares her love of Rick Rubin’s philosophy on finding your creativity and how it’s changed how she approaches her work.
Takeaways
Authenticity is key in serving your audience and connecting with the people you need to reach.
Personal branding is essential for individuals and businesses to grow and connect with their audience.
Finding the right business model for you is crucial to building a business that aligns with your strengths and passions.
Best practices from “experts” are rarely right for you and your unique circumstances.
Creating unique content and differentiating yourself is essential to standing out in a crowded market.
Artistry and creativity should be at the core of personal branding, focusing on creating content that resonates with the creator and their audience.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
In this episode, Jessica shares stories from 20 years covering the intersection of business and politics - from her time in Afghanistan to covering Western issues for Chinese media outlets.
Jessica shares practical tips from her book aimed at helping us better understand each other and work better in collaborative teams. Jessica reflects on her time in the White House Foreign Press Corps, her experiences covering Obama and Trump and why the truth must still be absolute.
Takeaways
Cultural understanding and cross-cultural communication are crucial in an increasingly globalized world.
Cultural proficiency is as important in small companies as in large, global ones.
Journalists play a vital role in holding those in power accountable and seeking the truth.
Taking risks and staying in one place can be just as adventurous as traveling to different locations.
It's important to embrace life and seize every opportunity, both personally and professionally.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
She’s Like the Wind: Confidence, the Power of Why and Badassery with Sensi Graves
00:44:54
Sensi Graves is a professional kiteboarder, entrepreneur and speaker who’s on a mission to help people build self-confidence and share their amazing uniqueness with the world.
Sensi shares how she used her time chasing summer around the world in kiteboarding competitions as inspiration to launch her swimwear company. And yet, as she looked back on everything she had achieved, she realized she was so busy trying to prove herself, she never felt proud. That’s all changed and since then, she’s been sharing her story to help people that look confident on the outside feel confident on the inside.
This was a powerful conversation that has stuck with me ever since. If you’ve ever had imposter syndrome or felt that no matter how many amazing things you’ve done, it’s never enough - I guarantee you’ll find something here for you.
Sensi shares how comparing ourselves to others and setting goals kills our self-confidence, and she shares simple daily habits that help. We also connected on exploring your why and how it’s the key to finding your people and helping you through hard times.
Takeaways
Confidence doesn’t just happen. It’s something you have to work at every day.
The biggest obstacles people face in building self-confidence are comparing ourselves to others and constantly chasing achievements.
Tips include limiting social media and changing your goals to things you can control.
Starting with your why is what allows you to connect with people and get through hard times
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
Tales of Trauma & Resilience from a Life in Law Enforcement with Nicole Ferry
00:42:48
Nicole Ferry is a 26-year veteran of law enforcement who’s on a mission to help others build resilience by sharing her heart-breaking stories of PTSD, trauma and suicide. Nicole is best known for her talk “What the Hell? The 3 Things I learned in the worst year of my life.”
Nicole has spent her life in law enforcement. She holds a degree in Criminal Justice, she’s been an executive police leader for a railroad, she did an 8-year tour as a Military Police Officer and is a graduate of the FBI National Academy in Quantico, VA.
I don’t have any direct experience with PTSD, any more than I know what it’s like to get a yellow brick from the FBI or investigate deaths on America’s railways. But I felt Nicole’s stories in my bones. I know how it feels to carry the weight of past traumas and the toll that takes on me and the people around me. I also know the freedom that comes from letting that baggage go.
This conversation is a bit of a roller coaster. It’s heavy material but we also laughed a lot, mostly as I tried to relate Nicole’s stories to my only frame of reference - Law & Order, A Few Good Men and bro-cop movies set in Boston.
Nicole’s brave stories carry a message of resilience and hope. But most importantly, they’re a reminder of how much we can learn from those with dramatically different experiences from our own.
Takeaways
Authority figures can have a dramatic impact on how we see ourselves early in life
You don’t have to be a first responder to have powerful stressors in your job
Everyone accumulates stress over their lives that will eventually come out in terrible ways if you don’t manage it
Simple daily practices like journaling, meditation and physical exercise make a huge difference in managing stress and staying mentally healthy
Tragedy can present you with an opportunity to find your purpose and help others
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
Just Say ‘Yes’ and See What Happens with Todd McTavish
00:45:36
Todd McTavish is a songwriter and it’s all he’s ever wanted to do. At 23, he left his small town home in Ontario and moved to LA. And at 53, he just signed his first record deal.
Todd’s an old school, rock and roll troubadour. The stories come fast and hard. He recorded a Christmas song with Billy Bob Thornton, had one of his songs played at the Superbowl and he owned a half bear, half wolf named Jazz who was an excellent judge of character.
But this isn’t about sex, drugs and rock and roll. It’s about having the courage to say yes. The music industry is a parable for life. It’s cruel and unfair, and it gave Todd a thousand really good reasons to quit. So how has he survived when so few others have? When an opportunity came up, no matter how crazy, he said yes.
As someone that tends to overthink things until I talk myself out of them, Todd’s journey inspired me. I could look back at the last 20 years of my life and wonder what could have been if I had said yes more often, but I don’t have time for that. What I refuse to do, is look back 10 years from now and wonder the same thing. What would Todd do? He’d say yes.
Please enjoy Todd McTavish.
Takeaways
Stay open to opportunities, and say yes. You never know.
Songwriting is like any creative endeavor. Your best ideas never come when you’re trying too hard.
The music industry is a parable for life. It’s not fair. Sometimes the difference between fame and toiling is just shit luck.
The truest art is creating for you, not your audience. Because it needs to come out.
Our job as creators is to create the environment for our best ideas to surface.
The biggest set-backs can present opportunities that change our lives.
When you pour your heart out and you get rejected, it’s hard to not take it personally. But that’s what you have to do.
Don't get too high or too low. Do it for you. Searching for that dopamine hit of other people’s approval is a powerful drug.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
Get Busy Learnin’ or Get Busy Dyin’ with Kerry O’Brien
00:43:37
Today, we talk with Kerry O’Brien. Kerry is an expert in how people learn. He’s also a podcaster and public speaker devoted to helping people build new skills and strong teams. You’re going to leave this conversation with new ideas on how to ignite engagement in your customers, your teams and the people around you.
We talk about the misconceptions about Gen-X, Gen-Z and millennials; and that the one thing that never changes is the science behind how people learn. If we can let that be our compass, we engage people as individuals and give everyone the choice to learn in a way that works for them.
We also talk about virtual teams, and that the #1 thing most of them are missing - trust. It doesn’t happen as easily when we’re apart, so Kerry talks about how we can create micro-opportunities to build this trust in one another over time.
Finally, we talk about the fear of failure. We share embarrassing fails from our early childhood, how those held us back for years, and how nobody gives a shit but us.
There are also some Easter eggs here for any Radiohead or Weezer fans out there. This episode’s got it all.
We don’t need fewer meetings, we need smarter meetings.
The #1 thing virtual teams need to be effective is trust.
We build trust organically when we’re physically together. When we’re virtual, it takes work.
Deep work sessions, time blocking and holding each other accountable are ways to build trust in virtual teams.
Gen-Z, millennials, boomers - they’re not as different as people think. The way people learn doesn’t change. What changes is how people prefer to engage.
Learning styles like auditory, virtual, and physical - they also don’t matter as much as people think.
How you deliver your message - a podcast, blog, post or video will change how the content is interpreted by your audience.
You can’t simply take the same content and deliver it in different ways because it changes.
Fear of failure can hinder learning, but reframing it as an opportunity for growth can lead to amazing achievements. Childhood experiences can have a lasting impact on personal development.
Understanding what good enough looks like can help set realistic expectations and maintain motivation.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
Chasing Your Curiosity to Unlock Deeper Connection with Others with Sylvia Baffour
00:49:04
Today, we talk to Sylvia Baffour. Sylvia is a keynote speaker on emotional intelligence and has worked with leaders in 460 major corporations to help them better connect with their teams and customers. She was voted one of the top 15 female inspirational speakers alongside Mel Robbins and Oprah.
Sylvia’s early journey was already unique and inspiring but it was a chance meeting with writer and activist Dr. Maja Anjelou that launched a life-long relationship that shaped her life.
We dig into what emotional intelligence is and what leaders need to do better if they really care about the culture they’re building.
But probably my favourite takeaway - the power of curiosity. How it’s the secret to making people feel heard and creating a lasting emotional imprint on those around you.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
A Long Strange Trip Through Psychedelic Therapy with Kelsey Ramsden
00:48:53
Today we talk to Kelsey Ramsden. Kelsey is an entrepreneur, author and speaker but if you ask her, she’d say she’s a creator. By 26, Kelsey was running her own construction company and was ranked the top female entrepreneur of the year by Profit magazine - 2 years in a row. Yet despite the financial success and industry accolades, she had never felt so depressed and alone.
Kelsey is vulnerable and honest as she shares her struggles with mental health and how a psychedelic therapist helped her find the clarity she needed. Since then in typical Kelsey fashion, she’s gone on to start two new companies on the forefront of psychedelic mental and sexual health.
We talk about the misconceptions around psychedelics, the growing body of research for treating depression, anxiety and opioid addiction - and how getting easy access to legalized therapy is closer than you think.
You don’t need to know your purpose. You can stay open to opportunities and take what comes. But if you always go with the flow, you can end up in a place that crushes your soul.
Some of the most tragic parts of our lives are required education.
Nobody learned to ride a bike without skinning their knee. Yet somehow as adults, we’re taught to expect success the first time. The only failure is not jumping.
Psychedelic research has shown amazing promise for depression, anxiety, PTSD and opioid addiction.
Legalized psychedelic therapy is coming. MDMA therapy could be legalized in parts of the US in the next 12 months.
If you’re interested in exploring psychedelic therapy, rely on trusted sources of information and ask targeted questions to find the right facilitator.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
Tell Stories, Discover Your Purpose, Find Your People with Peter Laughter
00:35:06
Today, we talk to Peter Laughter. Peter is an expert in crafting stories and coaching people to find purpose in their lives and in their work.
Peter talks about how growing up with dyslexia and ADHD drew him to storytelling as a way to cope with the world around him. He also shares practical tips on building your storytelling muscle to connect emotionally with people in a way they’ll never forget.
Then we talk about purpose - you know, that thing you’re supposed to have that gives your life meaning? Peter believes you already have one, everyone does - it’s simply a matter of revealing it. And once you know it, all the big decisions in your life that you’re struggling with - around your career and relationships - become much simpler.
Finally, we explore the crisis leaders face today with the lack of engagement most people feel at work. If leaders really care about tapping into the creativity of their teams, they need to abandon traditional hierarchies and push decision-making out to the farthest reaches of the organization.
Takeaways
The Power of Names: Names carry profound meaning and can shape our identities and interactions with others.
Storytelling as Connection: Storytelling is a tool for creating deep emotional connections and fostering empathy.
Reinvention and Purpose: Navigating career transitions requires a clear sense of purpose and the courage to explore new paths.
Non-Hierarchical Organizations: Shifting from traditional hierarchies to distributed authority can unlock innovation and engagement.
Experimentation in Leadership: Starting small and experimenting with new approaches can lead to meaningful change in organizations.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
Real-life Footloose, Punk Love Songs and Focus in a Distracted World with Greg Bennick
00:44:47
Today we talk to Greg Bennick. He’s a punk rocker, activist, documentary filmmaker, philanthropist, keynote speaker, juggler and expert coin collector. He’s also written a new book, Reclaim the Moment: Seven Strategies to Build a Better Now.
I could have talked to Greg for an hour about any one of these parts of his life - he’s got a way of making everything that interesting. We talk about Seattle’s teen dance ordinance, a real-life Footloose law that he helped overturn. We talk about how punk music is really just love songs. And we explore the central themes that tie all of his various pursuits together.
If you ever struggle with focusing on what matters, finding your purpose or trying to figure out what makes you special in this world - this conversation is for you.
Changing the system from within: Greg’s involvement in overturning Seattle’s teen dance ordinance showcases the power of grassroots advocacy and persistence when making changes from within the system.
Straight edge movement: Explore a subgenre of punk that emphasizes a lifestyle free of alcohol and drugs that is centered around the love of music..
Majestic failures: Nobody advertises their failures. But behind every best-selling book or successful keynote speech are dozens of failures that paved the way for the success everyone sees.
Re-inventing yourself throughout your career: Your journey is unique. You have more to offer the world than you think. Deciding what to do next in your career is not about what, but why.
Focus and Balance: Strategies to maintain focus and balance in a world filled with distractions, as discussed in Greg’s upcoming book, “Reclaim the Moment.”
Resources Mentioned:
Podcast: Let the Kids Dance (KUOW & NPR) – A deep dive into the history of Seattle's teen dance ordinance.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
Today, we talk to Jesse Finkelstein. Jesse is a book publishing insider and co-founder of Page Two Books, where she works with authors to bring their big ideas to the page.
Have you ever said to yourself, ‘I think I might write a book? ' I have dozens of times. And if you’re wondering, no, I still haven’t written one. So I really loved Jessie's demystification of the process for me and her advice for first-time authors.
Jessie takes us through her wild entrepreneurial journey from working at the publishing house for Harry Potter, getting let go with young kids at home, and eventually starting her own company.
We talk about all the decisions that go into creating an immersive, frictionless experience for the reader and it turns out it’s a lot like designing any customer experience.
We also talk about the power of regret, harnessing creativity and how smaller publishers are giving marginalized groups a voice for the first time.
A new way to get a book published: The shift from traditional licensing to service models in publishing offers authors more creative and strategic control.
You don’t have to write alone: Successful publishing relies on a meeting of minds between authors and publishers.
The art of making a book: Great books are the result of meticulous attention to editorial, design, and production details that enhance the reader's experience.
Opportunities for marginalized voices: The accessibility of publishing options today provides a platform for diverse voices and marginalized communities to share their stories.
Surround yourself with the right people: Hiring experienced editors or book coaches can significantly impact the quality and success of a book project.
What’s your why?: Understanding the 'why' behind writing a book is as important as ‘what’ you write about.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
Be Radically Authentic, and Just Shut the F*ck Up with Bob London
00:44:43
Today we talk to Bob London, or as I call him, "Mr. Curious." Bob is basically a professional listener. He is an expert in helping people connect and understand one another, and is the mastermind behind the concept of Radically Authentic Discovery.
The idea of curiosity is something I’m incredibly passionate about and is the core idea behind this podcast. So this conversation meant a lot to me.
I talk to Bob about chasing our curiosity in both our personal and professional lives, and he shares practical tips on building richer relationships by embracing awkward silences and simply shutting the fuck up.
Curiosity as a Superpower: Curiosity is often undervalued in business but is crucial for understanding customers and driving growth.
Customer Listening Tours: Conducting genuinely authentic, open-ended conversations with customers will reveal hidden insights you’ll never get from surveys or data.
Radically Authentic Discovery: Techniques to teach teams how to have strategic and revealing conversations with customers.
Bridging the Gap: Many companies claim to be customer-centric but fall short. Listening to understand is a unique skill set that companies need to invest in.
Challenges of Listening at Home vs. Work: Effective listening can be more challenging in personal relationships where we have history and emotions to contend with.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
Own Your Setbacks or They'll Own You with Amy Shoenthal
00:43:49
Today we talk to Amy Shoenthal, a bestselling author, journalist and marketing consultant for some of the world's largest brands. We talk about her latest book, The Setback Cycle that explores the personal setbacks of prominent leaders and gives us a 4-step process for navigating our own.
Maybe you’re in between jobs or in one that’s just not awesome anymore. Maybe you’re feeling kind of stuck. Or maybe everything really is awesome. And maybe you’re like me, and you’re every one of these depending on the day. Whatever it is, Amy keeps us laughing and gives us tools we can use every day to get through whatever is holding us back.
This was so much fun. Amy is the best.
Please enjoy Amy Shoenthal.
Key Takeaways:
The Setback Cycle: Understanding the four phases – Establish, Embrace, Explore, and Emerge – can help us navigate setbacks in real time.
Embrace Discomfort: Acknowledging and sitting with the discomfort of a setback is crucial for growth and learning.
Explore New Opportunities: The explore phase encourages you to try new things without the pressure to commit immediately.
Emerge Stronger: Successfully navigating the setback cycle can lead to a clearer sense of purpose and direction.
Toxic Positivity: Avoiding the pressure to always stay positive can prevent prolonging setbacks and allow for genuine processing of emotions.
Daily Routines: Incorporating small daily habits, like journaling prompts, can help identify and address minor setbacks before they escalate.
Organizational Application: The setback cycle can be applied at an organizational level to foster a culture of resilience and innovation.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
Tune In to the Universe and Live an Effortless Life with Dr. Tatiana Gwon
00:43:43
Today, we talk to Dr. Tatiana Gwon, a renowned physicist who, after 20 years, went looking for answers in the most unconventional of places: astrology. This conversation challenged a lot of my biases and preconceptions of astrology because frankly, I’ve always thought it was gypsy crystal ball readers and Sunday morning horoscopes.
Tatiana does a great job of demystifying astrology as we dive into the fascinating intersection of science and spirituality. We explore the concept of "effortless reality,” this state of flow where you align with the energy of the universe and manifest your desires without effort or stress. We talk about the profound impact of daily, monthly and even 29-year cycles on our lives, and how we can use these laws of the universe to live a fuller, easier life.
Please enjoy Dr. Tatiana Gwon.
Key Takeaways:
Effortless Reality: Learn how to tap into a state of flow where things come naturally, without forcing outcomes.
Cycles: Understand how daily, monthly, and even 29-year cycles can influence our lives and decision-making.
Resonance and Attraction: Discover the scientific basis behind the law of attraction and how it parallels physical concepts like resonance.
Bridging Worlds: Tatiana’s journey shows us that science and spirituality can intersect in meaningful and unexpected ways.
Personal Experimentation: Be the scientist in your own life—test new ideas and see what works for you, even if it defies conventional wisdom.
Resources:
Book: Astrology for the Millions by Grant Lewi – A practical guide to understanding and experimenting with astrological cycles.
Tatiana's Website: EffortlessReality.com – Explore Tatiana’s teachings and connect with her work.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
Come Together: What the Beatles Still Teach Us to This Day with Andrew Hunt
00:38:50
Today we talk to Andrew Hunt, a history professor and best-selling author of Beatlemania in America: Fan Culture from Below.
As a lifelong music fan, I feel like I’ve been preparing for this conversation my whole life. The truth is I’ve always been more of a Stones fan than a Beatles guy, but that doesn’t mean I don’t appreciate that they changed everything. I don’t care what kind of music you’re into, it wouldn’t exist without the Beatles.
So the question is…how?
How does something explode like they did? How much of it has to do with them, and how much of it was what was happening at the time?
How did these 4 ordinary guys come together to create something so much greater than anything any of them could do on their own?
And maybe, most importantly, can it ever happen again?
I’ve been fascinated lately about creativity - where it comes from, how to harness it, and how to use it with other people. This conversation came to me just when I needed it most.
Please enjoy, Andrew Hunt.
Key Takeaways:
We tend to put the Beatles on a pedestal, but they were just ordinary guys with extraordinary creativity.
Creativity flourishes in collaboration. Individually the Beatles were talented, but together they created something that was so much greater than the sum of their parts.
The Beatles were the soundtrack to a generation’s adolescence. Their music over the years reflected what they were going through as individuals, which perfectly mirrored what their fans were going through.
Can it happen again? Creative outbursts are seen throughout history. They’re cyclical. It’s just a matter of time before it happens again.
When teaching the Beatles to a new generation, you can’t just talk about it. You need to immerse them in everything that was happening at the time.
Modern technology has made us lazy. There is still lots of creativity out there, but we have to work harder to find the stuff off the beaten path.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
Behind the Mic: Lessons from our First 20 Episodes with Bob Mathers and Amy Schlueter
00:35:35
So this is a fun little bonus episode where my producer Amy and I chat about the podcast and explore what we’ve learned from our first 20 episodes.
This conversation turned out to be a lot more emotional than I expected. Since getting sober a couple of years ago, I’ve felt this sense of urgency to make the most of this last season of my career. I want to do more things that scare me, be more curious, get outside my comfort zone, see what else is possible.
And I think a lot of us feel this way. But we get stuck - Where do I start? What will people think? What if I suck?
But here’s the thing. Every one of my guests has felt this way. They’re ordinary people who have done extraordinary things. Their stories make anything feel possible.
Now one thing I was really hoping for that hasn’t happened…I thought it would get easier. These conversations still care the shit out of me. But that’s ok. If we keep expanding our comfort zone, then stepping outside it is always going to be scary.
Maybe that’s how we know it’s worth doing.
Please enjoy, Amy and Bob.
Takeaways
Best advice I ever got - “Just start. Press record.” Don’t worry about whether anyone will listen or what value you can provide. Be curious. The purpose will reveal itself.
Chasing my curiosity and being true to myself is the only way to connect with people. It’s also the only way to sustain my enthusiasm. As soon as I start worrying about what others need, I’ll quit.
It’s not my job to give the listener a lesson. People take different things away from conversations. So let them draw their own conclusions about what they take away and how to apply it to their lives.
The most interesting parts of a conversation don’t reveal themselves right away. The meaning changes depending on what’s going on in your life.
What I didn’t expect? How powerful these conversations have been and what they mean to me. They’ve added so much richness to my life. And they would never happen any other way. What a gift.
So what’s next? Even harder conversations. The more outside my comfort zone, the better. The scarier and more awkward, the more powerful it is.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
Missiles, Drugs, Comedy and the Myth of the Hero’s Journey with Marc Hogan
00:45:05
Today, we talk with Marc Hogan, a renowned speaker and psychologist with a pretty interesting path from selling missiles, drugs and cigarettes to stand-up comedy and coaching leaders.
LinkedIn is a funny place. It can be noisy and isolating like all social media is, but it can also create genuine connections - and that’s how I found Marc. There was something about what he was saying and how he was saying it that hit me right between the eyes - brutally honest, a bit out there and funny as shit.
Marc talks about getting pulled over by the cops with a truckload of missiles, and realizing maybe he needed a change. He’s most famous for taking a $1 bet to do a standup routine at the largest comedy festival in the world - a move that led him to psychology and traveling the world speaking to Fortune 500 companies about his unique insights on leadership.
This was so much fun, and left me with a lot to think about around how I spend the remaining years of my career and how I show up with those around me.
Please enjoy, Marc Hogan.
Key takeaways:
From Missiles to Comedy: Marc’s wild career shift from selling weapons to performing stand-up at the Edinburgh Comedy Festival shows how taking risks can lead to unexpected and rewarding paths.
The Power of Personality: Marc dives into how understanding your personality traits can shape your success and why some of us are wired for extroversion, while others thrive in quieter roles.
Psychology in the Workplace: Learn how your "first team" — the family you grew up with — influences your behaviour in teams at work and why it matters for leadership.
The Myth of the Hero’s Journey: Marc challenges the idea that hard work alone is the key to success and reveals the unseen factors like personality, privilege, and timing that really shape our journeys.
Conquering Comedy: Hear how Marc tackled the most terrifying form of public speaking—stand-up comedy—at the world’s biggest comedy festival and what it taught him about resilience.
Why We Don’t Always Get Along: Discover how Marc applies behavioural psychology to help teams and leaders understand and bridge differences, making collaboration more effective.
Rethinking Success Stories: Marc breaks down why the oversimplified "hero's journey" we see on social media doesn't tell the full story and how embracing nuance can lead to a more honest understanding of success.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
The Last Taboo: Life Lessons from the Dying with Dr. Karen Wyatt
00:46:43
Today I talk to Dr. Karen Wyatt, a renowned hospice doctor and author of What Really Matters: 7 Lessons for Living from the Stories of the Dying. Now before you press skip, this is not as heavy and morbid as it sounds. In fact, quite the opposite. This conversation was fun, inspiring and hopeful.
Karen shares stories of people that learned at the very end of their lives, profound lessons about what really matters in life. They’re stories about finding our purpose, being present and the power of forgiveness. Her patients aren’t here anymore, but we are. Their words and these lessons are a gift.
This conversation isn’t about how to die, it’s about how to live.
Please enjoy, Karen Wyatt.
Key Takeaways
How Karen’s father’s suicide led her to find purpose in hospice work.
The powerful lessons she’s learned from witnessing hundreds of patients' final moments.
How we can live with more intention, forgive sooner, and embrace love over fear.
When doing something like writing a book, you don’t need to know everything. You’ll learn what you need as you go.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
No Dress Rehearsal: Deep Cuts & Untold Stories from The Hip with Jake Gold
00:56:32
Today, I talk to Jake Gold, the legendary manager of the Canadian rock bandThe Tragically Hip. Jake talks about the new film The Tragically Hip: No Dress Rehearsal and the four-year process of bringing The Hip’s raw, emotional story to life.
We go deep into The Hip lore with stories that have never been heard before about some of The Hip's iconic songs, their appearance on SNL, touring with the Stones, and the final goodbye tour before Gord Downie's death in 2017.
Now, I can’t sit here and pretend that this is just another podcast episode. The Hip has been my favourite band since they released their first album when I was turning 19. It’s no exaggeration to say they provided the soundtrack to my life. I hope you have an artist in your life who means that much to you because then you can understand what it means to me to sit down with Jake and hear these stories.
But here’s the thing: The film and this conversation are not really about a rock band. They’re about truth, friendship, family, tragedy, and reconciliation. They’re also about the power of music and stories to bring us together.
Please enjoy Jake Gold.
Key Takeaways:
No Dress Rehearsal offers a raw, emotional journey into the life of The Tragically Hip, and takes us behind the scenes of these 5 very private people.
Authenticity in music is what made The Hip so relatable, and it’s something people crave more than ever.
Music can take us back to another time and place, but hearing these new stories can give these old songs new life and meaning.
Managing The Hip was all about taking risks and they did things that nobody had done in the industry.
Festivals like Another Roadside Attraction are more than just shows—they're about building community and celebrating together.
The band’s final tour unified a nation as it rolled across the country and gave fans an opportunity to say goodbye to Gord Downie.
Every Canadian remembers where they were for The Hip’s final concert in Kingston. It brought the country together in a way that no politician ever will.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
Unplug from the Matrix and Rediscover Your Fire with Michelle Hillier
00:49:46
Today I talk to Michelle Hillier, a speaker, educator and author who helps people find their authentic self by slowing down, finding their breath and re-igniting their fire.
She’s also a recovering alcoholic. I never thought a conversation about addiction, recovery and what’s on the other side could be so much fun. She shares hilarious and sometimes heart-breaking stories of how drinking helped her cope, and it worked pretty good for most of her life, until it didn’t. She talks about how the sudden death of her father made her realize she was living in the matrix - a life based on what society told her it should look like. And how things came to a head during the pandemic when she saw the real dark side of alcohol for the first time.
This was a really powerful and personal conversation for me. I don’t talk about my sobriety often and this felt like talking to a smarter, more enlightened girl version of myself. We’re all in recovery from something. Whatever yours looks like, this conversation is for you.
Please enjoy, Michelle Hillier.
Key Takeaways
Uncovering Patterns and True Core Values: Michelle discovered that the times she felt out of alignment with her core values, authenticity and health, were often when her drinking increased.
Transforming Tragedy into Purpose: The passing of her father and the COVID-19 pandemic both became wake-up calls that helped her start her own business and ultimately embrace sobriety.
Slowing Down and Finding Balance: Michelle found that slowing down and being in tune with her body allowed her to truly experience joy and authenticity, bringing balance to her naturally high-energy lifestyle.
Breath and Fire – A New Way of Living and Working: Michelle’s platform, Breath and Fire, embodies the balance between calm and passion, helping others find their fire while staying grounded.
Rebuilding Relationships with Deeper Connections: Sobriety allowed Michelle to reframe her relationships, leading to a more authentic bond with friends and family.
Creativity Reignited in Recovery: With sobriety, Michelle has found herself more connected to her creativity, whether through movement, problem-solving, or planning her next steps in life.
Resources
Breath and Fire: Michelle Hillier’s platform for coaching, speaking, and workshops on authenticity and balance.
Core Values Test: A tool for discovering personal core values, which helped Michelle see the impact of authenticity and health on her life.
Greenstone Treatment Center: The recovery center where Michelle now works as a mind-body professional, giving back to those beginning their own journeys.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
Trauma, Healing and Purpose through an Indigenous Lens with Clarence Cachagee
01:05:22
Today I talk to Clarence Cachagee, an Indigenous leader, author and founder of Crow Shield Lodge - a land-based healing center for Indigenous and non-Indigenous people.
So, I don’t know how to explain this conversation and when you listen, you’ll know what I mean. Talking to Clarence, you’re struck by how peaceful, thoughtful and hopeful he is for someone who has been through such trauma. He talks about being placed in foster care with his sister at an early age, discovering alcohol at 8 years old, abandoning his high-school sweetheart and their two young daughters, living on the streets, being incarcerated - and then finding his way back. He got sober, graduated from college, reconciled with his family, and, most importantly, reconnected with the land and his Indigenous roots.
I’ve got a lot to learn about Indigenous teachings. So when Clarence talks about kindness, compassion, finding your purpose, and being of service - it's with a different lens than I’m used to. I’ve got a lot of work to do, and Clarence makes me feel ok about that.
Prayer as a Tool for Connection: Clarence explains how “praying forward” shifts the focus from personal needs to collective healing and gratitude.
Healing Through the Land: The land holds the wisdom and medicine needed for healing and reconnection. All our teachings, ceremonies, and belonging are rooted in it.
The Power of a Spirit Name: Receiving his name, North Wind Man, was pivotal for Clarence. It helped him rediscover his purpose: to bring change and foster connection.
Breaking the Cycle of Trauma: Intergenerational trauma runs deep, but healing begins with acknowledgment, patience, and working for future generations.
Truth and Reconciliation: We’re still in the truth stage, and it’s hard work. Allyship, listening, and challenging the status quo are critical for meaningful progress.
The Importance of Alternatives: Clarence advocates for new pathways in health care, education, and justice systems to create spaces for Indigenous perspectives and healing.
Hope for the Future: Being a “best ancestor” today involves creating opportunities and removing barriers for future generations to thrive.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
Anti-Wokeness & DEI Fatigue: Here We Go Again. Insights from Michelle Grocholosky
00:51:14
Today I talk to Michelle Grocholosky, a CEO and speaker who works with leaders to build more diverse and inclusive companies. She’s one of Canada’s top 40 under 40 and has been recognized as one of the top 100 most powerful women in the country. She’s kind of a big deal.
I recently told a friend of mine that I was doing an episode on diversity and inclusion, and she said, “yeah that’s of no interest to me at all.” I appreciate her honesty, and it reflects how a lot of people are feeling about this topic. There is a lot of fatigue out there.
Maybe that’s why I loved this conversation so much - Michelle is so different than any other leader I’ve heard on this topic. She shares personal stories of how growing up in an intolerant household and working in a psychiatric hospital led her to her passion for this work. But even as an expert in the field, she’s honest about having to combat her deeply rooted biases and stereotypes on a daily basis.
You can’t control your first thought, but you can control your second. I take a lot of comfort in that, because I have made a lot of questionable decisions and told a lot of bad jokes. These conversations are never easy, which is kind of the point.
Please enjoy, Michelle Grocholsky.
Key Takeaways
The DEI Dinner Analogy: Diversity is being invited, inclusion is feeling welcome, and equity is having access to enjoy the meal—each pillar is essential.
Why Equity Lags Behind: Equity is often misunderstood as quotas when it’s really about fairness, removing barriers, and creating access for everyone.
Overcoming Bias: You can’t control your first thought, but you can control your second. Curiosity and humility are powerful tools for growth.
Unlearning and Relearning: Biases are often learned early, but through exposure and introspection, we can unlearn and build more inclusive perspectives.
Navigating Discomfort: It’s okay to make mistakes as long as you’re willing to learn and adapt. Humility and compassion can create space for authentic dialogue.
Shifting the Corporate Lens: When companies listen and act on feedback, they can create lasting, meaningful change for their employees and their bottom line.
Resources
TED Talk: Michelle recently delivered a TED Talk at the University of Waterloo, highlighting stereotypes and strengths in the workplace.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
Let It Flow: Conjuring The Magic on Demand with Diane Allen
00:37:02
Today I talk to Diane Allen, an author and speaker that helps people find and keep their flow state. If you’re wondering what flow is exactly, you’re not alone. In fact, Diane didn’t know it was a thing either until one day she lost it. She shares the story of being on stage as a violinist, and she froze. She couldn’t play. It was that humiliation that sent her on a quest to understand what had happened.
If you’re like me, you probably didn’t know there was a word for the flow state. I heard it for the first time a year ago. But I know you’ve felt it - those moments where time seems to stand still, your creative juices are flowing, and you’re getting more done in 20 minutes than you have in a week.
To me, it always seemed like magic. I never knew when or how it would strike. But it turns out you can control it, and conjure it whenever you want.
Diane takes us through the science of the flow state and a 3-step process for managing it.
I love this idea. And I’m obsessed with figuring this out.
Just imagine what more we could do.
Please enjoy, Diane Allen.
Key Takeaways
What is Flow? Diane defines flow as an optimal state of mind where distractions vanish, creativity flourishes, and you feel fearless and uninhibited.
The Science of Flow: Learn about the brain’s role in flow, including the activation of feel-good hormones like dopamine and the silencing of the inner critic.
Recognize Your Flow State: Diane explains the “Where, What, Why” framework to identify and replicate your unique flow experiences.
The Power of Intention: Distractions are the biggest killers of flow. Diane shares tips on managing interruptions and creating a distraction-free environment.
Flow and Mental Health: How accessing flow helps move you from languishing to flourishing, improving your overall well-being.
Collaboration in Flow: Discover how flow can be contagious, inspiring teams to perform at their best through a ripple effect of energy.
Making Flow Routine: Practical tips to prioritize and practice flow, so it becomes an integral part of your life.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
Stand Your Ground and Rediscover Your Self Worth with Angie McQuillin
00:47:11
Today I talk to Angie McQuillin, a speaker and coach that works with leaders to build their confidence to better connect with their teams. Angie shares intimate stories of abusive relationships from her past and how setting boundaries helped her break toxic patterns and rediscover her self-worth. She is a unique mix of kindness, vulnerability and 100% pure badassery.
Angie talks about how we slowly lose our self-worth every time we put someone else’s needs above our own. It’s not about being selfish, it’s about being clear and unapologetic about the things we will accept and the things we won't. If you ever suffer from imposter syndrome, people-pleasing, avoiding conflict, dysfunctional relationships, or burnout - this conversation is for you. And yeah, me too.
Angie also gives me a crash course in roller derby, a sport that seems like a sadistic mix of hockey and Quidditch from Harry Potter - just a whole lot more violent. She also shares inspiring stories of her nomadic life living in her van, and the heart-breaking loss of her dog Louie this year.
This is one of my all-time favourite conversations.
Please enjoy, Angie McQuillin.
Key Takeaways
Roller derby as a metaphor for life: Angie explains how being the “jammer” on the track taught her lessons in presence, teamwork, and courage.
The importance of boundaries: Why setting and honouring your boundaries is foundational to self-respect and better relationships.
Self-worth revolution: Angie shares how understanding her own values and setting boundaries transformed her relationships and career.
Confidence is not what it seems: Even people who appear confident often struggle with boundaries, imposter syndrome, or fear of failure.
How to start small: Tips for initiating tough conversations about boundaries with long-time friends or loved ones.
Freedom through self-discovery: Angie’s insights on embracing the nomadic lifestyle and pursuing passions outside work.
Healing through connection: The universal need for deeper connections and how avoiding vulnerability can lead to unhelpful coping mechanisms.
Living authentically: The power of showing up as your full self and embracing all aspects of your identity—professional and personal.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
Perimenopause: A Chat with Two Brilliant Women & One Ignorant Dude
00:46:23
Today, we talk to Michelle Stainton and Mikelle Ethier, two longtime friends and founders of the This is Perimenopausepodcast. Half the population will spend nearly a third of their life dealing with this. It’s messy, confusing and riddled with stigma - and they’re on a mission to fix that.
Michelle and Mikelle share their emotional and sometimes hilarious journeys through perimenopause. We explore the systemic failures that have left women vulnerable to misinformation - from the patriarchy and sexism to a lack of research and medical education - and how people can take back control of their bodies and launch the best season of their life.
So whether you’re in it, coming up to it, supporting a partner through it, or just love weird conversations with powerful, inspiring women - I guarantee there is something here for you.
Please enjoy Michelle and Mikelle.
Key Takeaways:
What Perimenopause Actually Is: Perimenopause refers to the years leading up to menopause when fluctuating hormones can cause symptoms like hot flashes, anxiety, sleep disturbances, and more. Menopause itself is just one day—the one-year anniversary of your final period.
The Knowledge Gap: Most women aren’t prepared for perimenopause, and even many doctors lack the training to provide appropriate care. The stigma around menopause and outdated medical practices have left millions of women to figure it out on their own.
The Economic Impact: Symptoms of unmanaged menopause cost the Canadian economy an estimated $3.5 billion annually. Women are leaving jobs, turning down promotions, and struggling to maintain productivity because they lack support and solutions.
Finding Purpose in the Chaos: Michelle and Mikelle believe perimenopause can be a gateway to a powerful new phase of life. They describe how it’s helped them shed old expectations, embrace their confidence, and step into a “no more f***s to give” mindset.
The Importance of Advocacy: Doctors can only help if you give them the information they need. Track your symptoms, research treatment options, and come prepared to advocate for the care you deserve.
A Glimmer of Hope: Menopause is finally “having a moment.” From grassroots advocacy to collaborations like This is Perimenopause’s work with Lume Women’s Health, the conversation is starting to change. But it’s still a long road to systemic improvements.
Advice for Partners: Understanding that perimenopause is real, chaotic, and often overwhelming is key. Partners don’t need to “fix” things—just listen, support, and educate themselves.
It’s Not Over—It’s Just Beginning: Michelle and Mikelle emphasize that perimenopause is a chance to start fresh. With better tools, knowledge, and confidence, this stage of life can be full of growth, purpose, and new possibilities.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
Jim Estill: A Masterclass in Entrepreneurship, Finding Your Purpose and the ROI of Philanthropy
00:47:08
Today we talk to Jim Estill, a serial entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist with an incredible track record of building and scaling companies. He grew his first business to over $2 billion, sat on the founding board of BlackBerry during its meteoric rise, and after a career in tech and having earned the right to do anything he wanted - he decided to be the CEO of an appliance company. But what drew me to Jim wasn’t his business success—it was a video he posted about something he called Monk Mode. Trust me, you’re going to love it.
Jim provides a master class in leadership and entrepreneurship, and shares practical advice on time management, staying focused, building strong teams and the importance of using your wisdom over your work ethic as you get older. Jim has been a vocal critic of the business community for not giving enough back. And, he talks about how this leads to so many successful people struggling to find purpose even after they achieved everything they set out to do.
I can’t tell you how many moments during this conversation I thought, holy shit I have to talk to Jill about that, I have to take that idea back to my clients, that’s a new habit I need to build, that’s a new question I can ask. This was one of those rare conversations that bobs and weaves, goes in unexpected directions and somehow gives me exactly what I needed to hear at this point in my life.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
Hurry Hard: The Rise of Curling, Fantasy Sports and Karaoke
00:48:37
Today we talk to Nic Sulsky— TV personality, tech entrepreneur, and the guy on a mission to revolutionize the sport of curling.
Nic is a character. He went from hosting a kids' TV show to conning his way onto a sports talk show, to pioneering two fantasy sports companies to his latest challenge, making curling the biggest winter sport in the world. Now if you think that sounds a little far-fetched, I’m with you. But when you hear Nic’s passion for the game and his plans, you start thinking he could actually pull this off.
Nic’s talks about playing for Canada’s national rugby team in the Jewish Olympics, which I didn’t know was a thing. He talks about the pain of watching one of his companies implode in 3 weeks. And why he launched the Grand Slam of Karaoke to showcase the amazing athletes he wants to turn into superstars
I guarantee this conversation will change how you think about curling, which to be honest is not something I’ve thought much about at all. But more than that, it’s about what’s possible when you find the courage to take big swings on what you care about most, and giving zero fucks about what anyone says about it.
Resources and Links
Grand Slam of Curling– Learn more about the premier curling series that Nick is working to transform.
Thank you for listening today. Please take a moment to rate and subscribe to our podcast. Here is how you can connect with us at the Growth Mixtape podcast.
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