Episode Description:

In this deeply moving episode of Mission Driven You, Rachel Abbasi shares her incredible journey of resilience, recovery, and reinvention. A former marketing executive, Rachel's life took an unexpected turn when she had a stroke in 2021, forcing her to confront a new reality. But as someone who had already navigated the difficult path of addiction recovery, Rachel realized something profound—recovery is a lifelong process, whether from addiction, illness, or any major life transition.

Rachel shares how the lessons of slow, intentional change transformed her approach to healing and purpose, ultimately leading her to launch the Recovery Daily Podcast, where she inspires others facing their own challenges. If you’ve ever struggled with change, felt stuck, or wondered how to "go anyway" when life gets hard, this episode is for you.

Show Notes:

Guest Information:

• Rachel Abbasi – Stroke survivor, addiction recovery advocate, and host of Recovery Daily Podcast.
• Website & Podcast: Recovery Daily Podcast
• Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more.

Key Topics Discussed:

Resilience & Overcoming Challenges

• How Rachel’s career-driven mindset was disrupted by unexpected health challenges.
• The moment she realized something was deeply wrong—and how her husband’s quick action helped save her life.
• The emotional toll of stroke recovery, from cognitive issues to chronic pain, and how it reshaped her identity.
• What addiction recovery taught her about patience and why it helped her navigate her stroke rehabilitation.

The Power of Slow Change & Daily Progress

• The connection between addiction recovery and stroke recovery—and why “keep coming back” became her guiding mantra.
• The hidden power of micro-habits—small, consistent actions that add up to transformation.
• How writing daily reminders on her mirror and celebrating small victories helped combat hopelessness.
• The importance of doing the next right thing, even when the road ahead feels overwhelming.

Finding Purpose Through Service

• How Rachel turned personal pain into a global platform for healing through her podcast.
• Why she believes everyone is recovering from something and why storytelling is a critical part of that healing.
• How she rediscovered creativity—from painting pill bottles to starting an Etsy shop to help others.
• The role of gratitude, connection, and community in moving forward.

Lessons for Leaders & Changemakers

• Why returning to work wasn’t an option—and how she redefined success.
• The importance of empathy and connection in leadership and life.
• How embracing "go anyway" can help us push forward, even on the hardest days.
• If society embraced slow, intentional change, how would our workplaces, relationships, and communities...

Episode Description:

The most powerful force shaping your life isn’t external—it’s the conversation happening inside your head. In this episode of Mission Driven You, I explore how your inner dialogue shapes your reality, why so many of us are stuck in old, limiting narratives, and how to rewrite the script in your mind to create real, lasting transformation.

I’ll break down:

• Why your inner dialogue is the foundation of deep change
• The battle between your inner critic vs. inner coach—and how to strengthen the right voice
• How to challenge negative self-talk and rewrite limiting beliefs
• Why slow, intentional shifts in mindset are the key to sustainable growth

If you’re tired of self-doubt, imposter syndrome, or feeling stuck in the same cycles, this episode will help you reframe the stories you tell yourself and build a new, empowered narrative for your life.

Show Notes:

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Why Your Inner Dialogue Shapes Your Reality

• The stories you tell yourself create the lens through which you see the world.
• Neuroscience shows that your brain is constantly interpreting data based on your inner script.
• If your script is negative, your actions will align with that belief—even if it’s not true.

2. How the Inner Critic Keeps You Stuck

• The inner critic thrives on fear, doubt, and past failures.
• It’s often rooted in childhood experiences, societal conditioning, or past setbacks.
• The inner critic sounds like:
• "You'll never follow through."
• "You always mess up."
• "You're not the kind of person who can do this."

3. Strengthening Your Inner Coach

• Your inner coach is the voice of resilience, wisdom, and possibility.
• The inner coach helps you:
• Believe in your ability to grow and adapt.
• Focus on small wins that build momentum.
• Reframe failures as lessons, not proof of inadequacy.

4. How to Rewrite Your Internal Narrative

Step 1: Notice the Script

• Carry a journal and track negative self-talk.
• Ask yourself: What do I tell myself when things get hard?

Step 2: Challenge Every Limiting Belief

• "Is this actually true, or just a thought I’ve repeated?"
• "What if the opposite were true?"
• "Would I say this to someone I love?"

Step 3: Choose a New Identity

• Stop waiting for proof—act as if you’re already the person you want to become.
• Example: Instead of saying "I'm bad at sales," say "I'm learning how to be more confident in sales."

Reflection Questions for Listeners:

• What is one negative thought you need to rewrite today?
• How would your life be different if your inner coach was louder than your inner critic?
• What small step can you take today to start changing your internal...

Episode Description:

In this episode of Mission Driven You, we welcome Morag Barrett, executive coach, leadership expert, and bestselling author of You, Me, We: Why We All Need a Friend at Work. Morag has worked with over 10,000 leaders across 20 countries, helping them develop strong professional relationships that drive success.

We dive into the Ally Mindset, the five practices that define high-performing teams, and why relationships—not just results—are the key to leadership success. Morag shares insights from her research on why 75% of employees say their boss is the most stressful part of their day and what leaders can do to change that. If you're looking to build stronger teams, foster connection, and create a thriving work culture, this episode is for you.

Show Notes:

Guest Information:

• Morag Barrett – Executive coach, leadership expert, and author.
• Website: Skyteam.com
• Take the Free Ally Mindset Profile: skyteam.cloud/youmewe
• Connect on LinkedIn: Morag Barrett

Key Topics Discussed:

The Leadership Gap & Workplace Relationships

• Why 75% of employees say their boss is the most stressful part of their job.
• The common leadership blind spots that cause disengagement and turnover.
• Why the "soft skills" myth is hurting leadership effectiveness.

The Ally Mindset & The Five Practices

1. Abundance & Generosity – Moving from scarcity to a shared success mindset.
2. Connection & Compassion – Building relationships beyond job titles.
3. Courage & Vulnerability – Creating a culture of trust and open feedback.
4. Candor & Debate – Encouraging honest conversations without fear.
5. Action & Accountability – Turning collaboration into results.

The Relational Ecosystem at Work

• The four relationship types: Allies, Supporters, Rivals, and Adversaries.
• How to identify your allies and turn rivals into allies.
• Why maintaining relationships is key to long-term success—and how to do it without feeling overwhelmed.

Workplace Trends & The Future of Leadership

• How return-to-office mandates are affecting workplace dynamics.
• Why interdependence is the future of work, not rugged individualism.
• The research behind how strong relationships impact performance, retention, and even workplace safety.

Reflection Questions for Listeners:

• Who would you jump at the chance to work with again—and why?
• How are you showing up as an ally in your workplace relationships?
• What small actions can you take to foster connection and accountability in your team?

Resources Mentioned:

• Books by Morag...

Episode Description:

We live in a world obsessed with speed—quick fixes, instant success, and overnight transformation. But what if the real key to meaningful change isn’t speed, but commitment? In this solo episode of Mission Driven You, I explore the urgency of slow change—why true transformation takes time and why deep, sustainable growth is the only kind that lasts.

I break down:

• Why quick fixes keep us stuck in cycles of failure
• How to create momentum without burnout
• The four-step framework for lasting transformation
• Why urgency isn’t about rushing—it’s about starting today with patience and intention

If you’ve ever felt frustrated by your progress, this episode will help you rethink your approach to change and build something that actually lasts.

Show Notes:

Key Topics Discussed:

The Illusion of Speed & The Cost of Quick Fixes

• Why our culture is addicted to instant results—and how that keeps us from real growth.
• The false promise of fast transformation—why weekend seminars, 30-day fixes, and crash courses don’t create lasting change.
• How the obsession with speed is harming leadership, personal development, and even our health.

What Slow Change Actually Looks Like

• Why slow change doesn’t mean passivity—it’s about being intentional, deliberate, and focused.
• The paradox of urgency—why you can be urgent without rushing.
• The “Festina Lente” principle—how to make haste slowly in your personal and professional growth.

The Four-Part Framework for Slow Change

Decide on what actually matters

• Most of what we think we need is really just a want—and that’s okay.
• Ask: If I looked back 10 years from now, what would I be grateful I started today?

Make the process the goal

• Success isn’t a destination—it’s a practice.
• Daily actions matter more than big, unsustainable bursts of effort.

Measure progress differently

• Track effort, consistency, and alignment—not just external results.
• Focus on depth over volume—it’s about integrating what you know, not just learning more.

Build a support system

• Surround yourself with people who value depth over speed.
• Find mentors, masterminds, or a life team to hold you accountable.

The Consequences of Ignoring Slow Change

• If you don’t prioritize your health, you’ll be forced to later.
• If you don’t invest in relationships, you’ll wake up lonely and disconnected.
• If your work isn’t aligned with your values, you’ll burn out wondering what happened.

Reflection Questions for Listeners:

• Where in your life have you fallen into the speed trap?
• What’s one small action you can take today to start building slow, meaningful...

Episode Description:

In this episode of Mission Driven You, we explore the future of remote work and thriving in a connected world with Ric Pratt, founder of Thrive Remotely. Ric shares how he went from organizing casual meetups in Asheville to leading a global movement helping remote workers build meaningful connections, foster collaboration, and create community impact. We discuss the evolving dynamics of remote work, the importance of flexibility in the modern workplace, and how remote communities are shaping the future of living. Whether you’re a remote worker, entrepreneur, or leader navigating the changing workforce, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.

Show Notes:

Guest Information:

• Ric Pratt: Founder of Thrive Remotely
• Thrive Remotely Newsletter: news.thriveremotely.io

Topics Discussed:

Building Community and Thriving Remotely:

• Ric's journey from founding Asheville Digital Nomads to creating Thrive Remotely.
• The power of connection, collaborative learning circles, and community service projects.
• Examples of how remote workers have impacted Asheville’s economy and recovery efforts.

The Future of Remote Work:

• Trends in remote and hybrid work models.
• Challenges with return-to-office mandates and the cultural shift toward employee flexibility.
• The growing role of fractional work in the evolving job market.

Thrive Remotely Movement:

• Expanding from Asheville to multiple cities, including Austin, Chicago, and Raleigh-Durham.
• The rebranding journey from "digital nomads" to "thrive remotely."
• Stories of collaboration and problem-solving across diverse industries.

Insights on Remote Work:

• The balance between work and life, and how remote work supports holistic living.
• How to cultivate meaningful relationships and solve problems creatively in a remote environment.
• Thriving as a remote worker through lifestyle, wellness, and career development.

Key Takeaways:

• Remote work isn’t just about where we work—it’s about how we live.
• Building community and sharing knowledge creates exponential value for remote workers.
• Thriving remotely requires flexibility, trust, and a focus on individual well-being.

Resources Mentioned:

• The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey
• Thrive Remotely Newsletter: news.thriveremotely.io

Mentioned in this episode:

Speaking Enagements- Dr. Will Samson

Email admin@willsamson.com to learn more information about booking Dr. Will Samson to speak at an engagement or visit https://willsamson.com

Episode Description:

In this solo episode of Mission Driven You, host Will Samson explores a groundbreaking approach to building internal trust for sustainable personal growth. Using the analogy of blockchain, Will explains how real transformation happens when we align our head (logic), heart (emotion), and gut (action) into a trustworthy system—just like a blockchain verifies transactions.

Why do quick fixes fail? Why do we get stuck in cycles of overthinking, emotional impulsivity, or reckless action? This episode uncovers why most personal development efforts break down and how to create a lasting internal trust system that drives real change. If you've ever struggled with making meaningful progress in your life, this episode will provide a powerful, actionable framework to help you move forward with confidence.

Show Notes:

Key Topics Discussed:

The Blockchain of Trust Analogy

• How blockchain ensures security through verification and connection.
• Why transformation requires trust between our head, heart, and gut.

Why Most People Stay Stuck in Personal Growth

• The danger of a broken internal trust system.
• How overthinking, emotional impulsivity, and reckless action keep us from making lasting changes.

The Three Centers of Decision-Making:

• Head (Logic & Thought Center) → The place of strategy and beliefs but also overanalysis and procrastination.
• Heart (Emotion & Identity Center) → The space of passion, values, and emotional truth, but also where people get lost in fleeting motivation.
• Gut (Action & Execution Center) → Where change happens, but impulsive action without alignment leads to failure.

How to Build a Personal Blockchain of Trust

• Step 1: Identify limiting beliefs and replace them with empowering narratives.
• Step 2: Align your goals with your emotions and identity for motivation that lasts.
• Step 3: Take small, aligned actions to reinforce trust within yourself.

Personal Stories & Practical Applications

• Will’s journey in recovery, fitness, and entrepreneurship—and how he learned to integrate all three centers for lasting change.
• Why New Year’s resolutions fail and how to build real, sustainable momentum instead.

The Power of Internal Alignment

• When head, heart, and gut align, willpower becomes unnecessary—trust takes over.
• Sustainable change isn’t about speed—it’s about deep, meaningful transformation.

Reflection Questions for Listeners:

• Which of the three centers—head, heart, or gut—do you rely on most?
• Have you ever made a decision that wasn’t aligned across all three? What happened?
• What’s one small action you can take today to start building internal trust?

Resources Mentioned:

• Substack: Will’s latest article on the head-heart-gut connection

Episode Description:

In this episode of Mission Driven You, we sit down with Steven J. Posner, a seasoned entrepreneur, advisor, and investor, to discuss how failure can lead to transformation and success. Steven shares his journey from scaling groundbreaking ventures like Future Lighthouse to discovering the power of reframing challenges through tools like the Wim Hof Method, breathwork, and mindfulness. We explore his philosophy of Resilient Leadership and how leaders can harness innate abilities to create impact and fulfillment in life and business. This conversation is packed with actionable insights, inspiring stories, and transformative techniques.

Show Notes Resources:

Books and Authors:

• The Paradox of Success by John O’Neill
• Leadership Aikido by John O’Neill
• Breath by James Nestor
• How Emotions Are Made by Lisa Feldman Barrett
• The Gene Keys by Richard Rudd
• Body by Science by Doug McGuff

Methods and Practices:

• Wim Hof Method (Breathwork, Cold Therapy, Meditation)
• Oxygen Advantage and Buteyko Method (Breathing Techniques)
• WildFit Program (Nutrition and Health)
• Freediving (Advanced Nervous System and Relaxation Training)

Organizations and Communities:

• YPO (Young Presidents’ Organization)
• Gelafu Mindfulness City (Bhutan mindfulness and technology initiative)

Notable Figures and Mentors:

• John O’Neill (Leadership Mentor)
• Viktor Frankl (Philosopher and Author, referenced for his work on meaning)

Steven J. Posner:

• Learn more about Steven’s Resilient Leadership programs and retreats.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjposner/?originalSubdomain=pt

Mentioned in this episode:

Speaking Enagements- Dr. Will Samson

Email admin@willsamson.com to learn more information about booking Dr. Will Samson to speak at an engagement or visit https://willsamson.com

Episode Description:

In this solo episode of Mission Driven You, host Will Samson explores the transformative power of Slow Change—a movement that challenges the quick-fix culture dominating self-help, business, and even social change. Will breaks down why rapid, one-size-fits-all solutions fail and why sustainable, intentional transformation is the key to lasting success. He shares personal insights, practical strategies, and a roadmap for making slow change a reality in your life, your career, and the world. If you’re tired of burnout and empty promises of instant transformation, this episode is for you.

Show Notes:

Key Topics Discussed:

The Problem with Quick Fixes:

• Why our culture is addicted to speed and instant solutions.
• The hidden emotional, financial, and social costs of failed quick fixes.
• How quick fixes reinforce the false belief that if we don’t change overnight, we must be broken.

What is Slow Change?

• Why slow change is not just a new method, but a completely different category of transformation.
• The core principles: patience, sustainability, and intentionality.
• How slow change leads to deeper personal growth, better relationships, and stronger businesses.

Why We Need a Movement:

• The burnout crisis and why people feel exhausted by constant change.
• Why long-term thinking is critical for personal and societal transformation.
• How shifting from quarterly goals to generational goals could reshape businesses and communities.

Practical Steps to Practice Slow Change:

• Redefine success—Measure progress by consistency, not speed.
• Trust the process—Focus on the next step, not the entire journey.
• Let go of the timeline—True change happens on its own schedule.
• Find a community—Transformation is best practiced together.

Reflection Questions:

• Are you chasing quick fixes or committing to slow, sustainable change?
• Where in your life or work could you shift to long-term thinking?
• How can you help build a movement that values intentional, lasting transformation?

Resources Mentioned:

• Pattern Breakers (Reference to the idea that slow change is a new category, not just an alternative approach).
• Surgeon General’s report on the loneliness epidemic.
• Statistics on "deaths of despair" (suicide, overdose, and alcohol-related deaths).
• The concept of VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity) in leadership.

Join the Slow Change Movement:

• Subscribe to Will’s Substack for deeper insights and weekly reflections: https://drwillsamson.substack.com/
• Follow Will on LinkedIn for conversations on slow change and leadership: https://www.linkedin.com/in/willsamsonchangecoach/
• Engage on Instagram for daily reflections and community discussions: