Episodios

  • More Than a Feeling: Love as the Fuel for Growth + Connection

    More Than a Feeling: Love as the Fuel for Growth + Connection
    Dec 5 2024
    1 h
  • The Power of Persistence: How to Keep Going When the Going Gets Tough

    The Power of Persistence: How to Keep Going When the Going Gets Tough
    Nov 20 2024
    55 m
  • The Truth About Passion: Fuel, Fire, + Finding What Really Drives You

    The Truth About Passion: Fuel, Fire, + Finding What Really Drives You
    Nov 7 2024

    This episode of Beyond Your Default dives deep into the intertwined forces of purpose and passion—how each fuels a meaningful life beyond just daily obligations. George and Liz explore how passion acts as the spark, adding energy and excitement to purpose-driven work, while purpose provides the steady direction. But passion alone isn’t enough; unchecked, it can lead to burnout. Together, George and Liz emphasize the importance of harmonious passion, balanced engagement without compulsion, and the need for intentional rest to avoid slipping into obsessive territory.

    Key Takeaways
    Passion Isn’t Infinite—It Needs Structure
    Passion gives momentum, but without rest and boundaries, it can lead to burnout. Intentional pauses and balance fuel sustainable energy, avoiding the trap of “too much of a good thing.”

    Harmonious vs. Obsessive Passion
    Harmonious passion allows joyful engagement without overwhelming life. Obsessive passion, however, brings stress, and disrupts other aspects of well-being. Balance between dedication and detachment is crucial for long-term fulfillment.

    Purpose is the Compass; Passion is the Fire
    Purpose guides, passion energizes. Purpose without passion can feel like homework, but passion without purpose can lead to burnout or lack of direction.

    Give Yourself Grace—Life is About Exploration
    Discovering passion isn’t a one-time epiphany. It’s about staying curious and allowing passions to evolve over time. Embrace the moments of flow and joy, but remember that rest and self-awareness are key to sustaining those passions.

    Memorable Quotes
    “Passion and purpose aren’t separate—they’re two sides of the same coin. Purpose gives direction; passion provides the fuel.”
    “Rest isn’t the opposite of passion; it’s the fuel that keeps the fire burning strong.”
    “If you’re running on just purpose, life can feel heavy. If you’re running on just passion, you can lose direction.”
    Reflective Questions
    Are you balancing passion with intentional rest and structure?
    How do you differentiate between harmonious and obsessive passion in your own life?
    What steps can you take to ensure your purpose and passion align for a balanced, fulfilling journey?
    Subscribe to the Beyond Your Default newsletter for more insights, stories, and tools to help you build a life beyond the ordinary!
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    53 m
  • Purpose Unlocked: How to Align Your Life with Meaning

    Purpose Unlocked: How to Align Your Life with Meaning
    Oct 24 2024

    In this episode of Beyond Your Default, George and I dig deep into the art of aligning our lives with purpose—a journey not only of discovery but of real, tangible alignment between who we are and how we live. George explains that once we start noticing the patterns in our experiences and values, it’s time to connect those insights with our daily actions. This process, he shares, isn't just about knowing what we want—it's about syncing our work, lifestyle, and habits with our core values. This is where everything begins to click, where life flows with a sense of purpose, like firing on all cylinders. We’re not just moving through the motions. We’re actively living who we are meant to be.

    ✨ Join the Beyond Your Default newsletter for weekly insights!

    As George shares, living a life in alignment with purpose isn’t just a milestone. It’s a daily commitment, a continual practice of showing up fully as ourselves. It’s about being real, engaging with purpose consistently, and allowing it to shape the way we approach each day.

    Key Highlights from Our Conversation
    1. Discovering Patterns Through Experimentation
    George emphasizes that before we align, we experiment. He talks about the importance of trying new things and exploring different paths to understand what truly resonates. This experimentation reveals patterns, allowing us to start crafting a life that’s in sync with who we are.

    2. Aligning Actions with Core Values
    Alignment isn’t about achieving a one-time goal; it’s about connecting our insights with our actions. George shares how he found his groove in creating content, educating, and guiding others—an outlet that perfectly aligns with his mission to educate and inspire. When your work syncs with your values, you’re not just checking off tasks; you’re fulfilling a purpose.

    3. Living with Purpose, Daily
    Purpose isn’t a destination; it’s a practice. George reminds us that purpose requires us to show up and live it daily. It’s an active commitment, not a box to tick off. Living purposefully is a journey, and it’s about staying true to our values in everything we do.

    Why This Matters
    Living with purpose doesn’t happen by accident. It’s a process of reflection, experimentation, alignment, and practice. When we stop just “getting by” and start aligning with what truly matters to us, life feels more meaningful. This episode is a reminder that purpose isn’t a one-time revelation—it’s a daily practice that brings us closer to our true selves.

    Related Episodes:
    Embracing the Journey: Navigating Life’s Twists and Turns
    Authenticity and Alignment: How to Show Up as Your True Self
    Finding Joy in Purposeful Work
    Quotes to Reflect On
    “Purpose isn’t a one-time discovery. It’s a daily practice that you engage with consistently.”
    “When your actions align with your purpose, that’s when life really starts to click.”
    “Purpose is the compass that guides us through the storm.”
    This episode offers a powerful reminder: when you align your actions with purpose, you’re not just living life; you’re creating a life that’s deeply meaningful.
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    56 m
  • The Happiness Paradox: When We Don’t Feel What We “Should” Feel

    The Happiness Paradox: When We Don’t Feel What We “Should” Feel
    Oct 7 2024

    In this episode of Beyond Your Default, George and I dive into one of the most transformative frameworks in personal growth: the Four Cornerstones of the Superhuman Framework. This isn’t just about ticking off a list of personal goals. It’s about creating a foundation that aligns with our deepest values—passion, purpose, persistence, and love. These aren’t just ideals. They’re actionable principles that help us live a more integrated, balanced, and fulfilled life, well beyond the “default” mode that most people settle for.

    🌱 Subscribe to the Beyond Your Default newsletter for weekly doses of inspiration!

    The Four Cornerstones of the Superhuman Framework aren’t just theory—they’re a blueprint to shift how we show up in the world. In this episode, George and I break down each cornerstone and discuss what it looks like to embrace them fully. If you’ve ever felt like there’s more to life but weren’t sure how to tap into it, this conversation will give you the tools to do so.

    Key Highlights from Our Conversation
    1. Defining the Four Cornerstones: George walks us through the core principles—Passion, Purpose, Persistence, and Love—and explains how these cornerstones work together to form a balanced, powerful approach to life and work. We talk about why they’re essential not just for high achievers but for anyone looking to live a more intentional life.

    2. Passion: Fueling Our Journey
    Passion isn’t just a buzzword; it’s the energy that drives us forward, even when the going gets tough. George shares personal stories of how passion has been his compass, helping him navigate both successes and setbacks. We dive into why finding and nurturing our passions is critical to a fulfilling life.

    3. Purpose: The Anchor in the Storm
    Purpose gives us direction. It’s not about following someone else’s roadmap but discovering what we’re truly here to do. We discuss how identifying and aligning with our purpose provides a sense of stability, even in chaotic times. George shares insights on how to find your purpose and let it guide your decisions.

    4. Persistence: The Power to Keep Going
    Persistence is the grit that keeps us moving when passion alone isn’t enough. George talks about the importance of resilience, especially for high achievers who often face burnout. We explore practical ways to cultivate persistence, so you can stay the course without sacrificing your well-being.

    5. Love: The Core of It All
    Love isn’t just a feeling; it’s the thread that connects everything we do. From loving the people around us to finding self-compassion, love fuels our ability to live authentically. George explains why love is the cornerstone that holds everything together and how we can all bring more of it into our daily lives.

    Why This Matters
    The Four Cornerstones of the Superhuman Framework offer a path to living beyond the superficial markers of success. This episode is a reminder that life is more than just achieving goals; it’s about becoming a person who lives with integrity, resilience, and genuine connection. If you’re ready to challenge the default settings of your life and embrace something deeper, this episode is for you.

    Related Episodes:
    How to Cultivate Passion in Everyday Life
    Finding Purpose in Uncertain Times
    Building Resilience: Persistence Without Burnout
    Practicing Self-Compassion and Love
    Powerful Quotes from the Episode
    “Passion fuels the journey, but purpose gives it direction.”
    “Persistence isn’t about ignoring the obstacles; it’s about knowing why you’re willing to face them.”
    “Love is the cornerstone that holds everything together. Without it, all the success in the world feels empty.”
    “When you live with purpose, every decision feels like a step toward something meaningful.”
    If you’re ready to embrace a framework that goes beyond the hustle, tune in to this episode and start building your superhuman foundation.
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    1 h y 3 m
  • 4 Cornerstones of the Superhuman Framework by George B. Thomas

    4 Cornerstones of the Superhuman Framework by George B. Thomas
    Oct 1 2024


    In this episode of Beyond Your Default, George and Liz explore the heart of the Superhuman Framework with its "4 Cornerstones"—Love, Purpose, Passion, and Persistence. These foundational elements are the keys to building a fulfilling, resilient life beyond the default. But unlike simple principles, they’re deeply personal forces that help us navigate life’s challenges and triumphs with authenticity and strength.

    Together, they dig into what each cornerstone means in real, actionable terms. From love as the connection fueling our relationships and pursuits, to purpose as the compass guiding us through uncertainty, to passion as the energy that makes hard work feel worthwhile, and persistence as the grit to keep going—these are more than just words; they’re essential to living a life aligned with who we truly are.

    If you’re ready to ask yourself, “What kind of life am I building?” and “What drives me to keep going when things get tough?” then this episode will serve as both inspiration and a practical guide. Whether you’re starting fresh or looking to reignite your journey, the 4 Cornerstones offer a roadmap to live intentionally and meaningfully, with purpose and joy in every step.

    🌱 Related Episodes:

    How to Make Vulnerability Your Superpower
    Is Self-Care Selfish, Bullsh*t, or Actually Valuable?
    ✨ Takeaway Quote: "You're the architect of your own life. What you build—and the passion, purpose, and persistence you bring to it—is what makes the journey extraordinary."
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    1 h y 8 m
  • Dealing with Burnout When You Do Work That You Freakin’ Love

    Dealing with Burnout When You Do Work That You Freakin’ Love
    Sep 28 2024
    In this episode of Beyond Your Default, George and I tackle one of the most challenging and personal topics in the world of work: burnout, but not just any kind. We’re diving into what it means to truly experience burnout while doing what you love—because let’s be honest, it feels completely different when your passion is the source of your exhaustion. When you're mad at what you do, it's easier to recognize you've got a problem.This episode is personal, it’s real, and it’s something we need to talk about, especially for those of us who pour ourselves into work that we care deeply about.🌶️ Spice up your inbox: Subscribe to the Beyond Your Default newsletterBurnout is a term that gets thrown around a lot, but what happens when the thing that used to light you up—your dream job, your passion project—suddenly becomes the source of your stress? How do you navigate that emotional and physical toll when you still care so much about what you’re doing?George and I roll up our sleeves in this episode to address these questions, and we don’t shy away from sharing our personal stories and struggles with burnout. I even talk about my own recent health scare and how it forced me to rethink how I balance life and work. If you’ve ever found yourself teetering on the edge of burnout while doing what you love, you’re not alone, and this episode is for you.🌱 Related Episodes:How to Make Vulnerability Your SuperpowerIs Self-Care Selfish, Bullsh*t, or Something Actually Valuable?A lot of times, people talk about burnout in abstract terms—just another buzzword. But George and I wanted to shift the conversation to focus specifically on what happens when burnout hits in work that brings you joy and purpose. When you’re doing something you’re passionate about, burnout doesn’t always feel like an option because you love what you’re doing. But even when you’re in love with your work, burnout can still creep in—and it can be more devastating when it does.I share my experience of having to hit the pause button recently because of a significant health scare. It forced me to ask tough questions about rest, boundaries, and how to keep showing up for the things that matter without running myself into the ground.Burnout Topics We Coverburnout, emotional clarity, health scares, work-life balance, self-care, productivity, mental health, communication, passion, stress managementHighlights from Our ConversationDefining Burnout in Work You Love: We start by acknowledging how burnout presents differently when you care deeply about your work. It’s not just physical exhaustion; it’s emotional fatigue that leaves you questioning the very passion that got you started in the first place.George’s Burnout Thermometer: George introduces the concept of his “burnout thermometer,” a personal gauge he’s developed over time to check in with himself before burnout takes over. This involves identifying the warning signs before it’s too late and taking intentional steps to avoid a crash.The Importance of Rest and Reflection: One of the biggest lessons I’ve had to learn is that rest isn’t the enemy of productivity; it’s a necessary part of the process. We discuss how to recognize when it’s time to step back and how to do it without guilt—especially for all my fellow Type A’s who struggle with letting go!Practical Tips for Avoiding Burnout: From micro-breaks to setting boundaries, we break down real, actionable strategies for avoiding burnout, even when it feels like stepping away is impossible. George and I both share how we’ve had to prioritize ruthlessly and learn how to say “no” or “not now” to protect our mental and physical health.How to Rebalance Your Workload: We know that stepping away isn’t always realistic. But you can still rebalance your workload and make time for the things that matter most. We talk about how to delegate, communicate, and prioritize effectively so that you don’t end up burning the candle at both ends.Understanding the Consequences of Ignoring Burnout: What happens when you don’t listen to your mind and body? We get real about the very real consequences of burnout—from physical illness to career stagnation. And if you’re thinking, “It’s just a rough patch, I’ll get through it,” this episode might change your perspective on what’s really at stake.Quotes About the Importance of Burnout“You can’t pour from an empty cup. Take care of yourself first.” - Unknown“Burnout is what happens when you try to avoid being human for too long.” - Michael Gungor“The truth is that burnout is a sign that something needs to change, not that you should just push through.” - Carly Ferguson“Sometimes the most productive thing you can do is rest.” - Mark Black“You can do anything, but not everything.” - David Allen“Burnout doesn’t happen because we’re solving problems; it happens when we’ve been solving the same problem over ...
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    1 h y 13 m
  • What Does Bravery Really Look + Feel Like?

    What Does Bravery Really Look + Feel Like?
    Sep 4 2024
    In this episode of Beyond Your Default, George and I are digging into something that is woefully misunderstood: bravery. We’ve all been fed this narrative that bravery has to be some dramatic, action-hero moment—full of fearless, toxic positivity or like rushing into a burning building or staring down a villain in some epic showdown. But here’s the thing: that’s complete nonsense.We’re breaking down what bravery actually feels like in the real world. Sometimes it feels like you’re about to puke. Sometimes it’s quiet, personal, and shows up in ways that nobody else will ever see. Bravery isn’t about waiting for some magical feeling of confidence to wash over you—it’s about stepping into the scary stuff anyway, even when your brain is screaming:“Abort mission!”🌶️ Spice up your inbox: Subscribe to the Beyond Your Default newsletterSo if you’re sitting there wondering how the heck you can be braver in your everyday life without having to slay a dragon or leap off a building, this one’s for you. George and I are diving into the ways we’ve both shown bravery in our own lives (it wasn’t glamorous), and how you can start recognizing those small but powerful brave moments in your life, too.Bravery isn’t some magical state of being where everything suddenly feels great and you know exactly what you’re doing. (If that happens, let me know, because I’ve been missing out.) It’s messy, it’s uncomfortable, and it often looks like taking tiny, awkward steps forward when you’d rather curl up in a ball. But if you’re still moving forward—no matter how scared, unsure, or uncomfortable you feel—you’re already doing it. You’re already brave. And that’s the whole damn point.So stop waiting for bravery to feel epic. Start giving yourself credit for the brave things you’ve already done, and get out there and do the next scary thing. Because trust me, you’re braver than you think.🌱 Related Episodes:How to Make Vulnerability Your SuperpowerIs Self-Care Selfish, Bullsh*t, or Something Actually Valuable?Bravery Topics We Covereveryday bravery, quiet courage, overcoming fear, bravery vs. fearlessness, cultural expectations of bravery, taking action despite fear, personal growth through discomfort, mindset shifts for bravery.Highlights from Our ConversationBravery Isn’t Fearlessness (Because Let’s Be Honest, Fear Never Fully Goes Away): Let’s cut to the chase—if you’re waiting to magically feel fearless before taking action, you’re going to be waiting forever. Bravery isn’t the absence of fear; it’s showing up and doing the thing with fear tagging along for the ride. We break down how fear and bravery are basically two sides of the same coin, and why being scared doesn’t disqualify you from being brave. In fact, it’s kind of the whole point.The Everyday Acts of Bravery You’re Probably Overlooking: Listen, yes, jumping out of a plane might be brave, but so is setting a boundary with someone when you’ve spent your whole life being a people-pleaser. We dive into the tiny, everyday acts of bravery that don’t get any applause but make all the difference—things like saying “no,” asking for help, or simply getting through the day when life feels heavy. Trust me, these are the real MVP moments of bravery.Why Hollywood’s Definition of Bravery Is Screwing You Over: Society—and yes, Hollywood too—has trained us to think bravery is all about big, visible acts of heroism. But in reality, most bravery happens when no one’s watching. We talk about how these warped ideas about bravery have messed with our heads, and why comparing yourself to some superhero storyline is a surefire way to feel like you’re not measuring up. Spoiler: You don’t need a cape or a grand gesture to be brave.George and I Share Our Not-So-Glorious Brave Moments: We’re getting real about the times we’ve had to be brave—and spoiler, it didn’t look like the movies. From business decisions that scared the hell out of us to moments of personal growth where we had no idea what was coming next, we talk about the times we didn’t feel brave at all in the moment but looking back? Yeah, we were. If you’re waiting for some epic brave feeling to hit before you make your move, we’re here to tell you: that’s not how it works.Stop Waiting for the Feeling—Just Do the Damn Thing: If there’s one thing we want you to take away from this episode, it’s that bravery isn’t some feeling that sweeps you off your feet. It’s about moving forward when you’re scared out of your mind. We break down why waiting until you feel ready is a trap and how the most important thing you can do is just start. Whether that’s having the tough conversation or finally taking the leap on something you’ve been putting off—just go.How to Start Acting Bravely (Even When You Don’t Feel Like It): Want to know how to be braver in your everyday life without feeling like you’re ...
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    52 m