Grow Further is celebrating episode 5-0, and we’re bringing our authentic selves and hope you will, too! In this longer-than-normal episode, Ellie and Chris discuss the wisdom of Brené Brown, unpacking the idea that true belonging means embracing your authentic self, not just fitting in.

Also in this episode:

• The struggle to fit in, in the age of social media
• Personal stories of navigating identity and authenticity in personal and professional settings
• Making sure you foster environments where individuals feel safe to express their true selves

Do you strive for perfection or permanence? In this episode, Chris and Ellie challenge the notion of “practice makes perfect” and introduce a fresh perspective. Perfection is unattainable, but practice can help you grow further in many areas of your life.

Also in this episode:

• Where did “practice make perfect” come from
• How practicing habits can lead to lasting changes in your life
• Why you should practice everything from presentations to tough conversations and even making sourdough bread!

Could making your bed be the key to a better day? In this episode of the Grow Further podcast, Ellie and Chris delve into the quote, "How you do anything is how you do everything." They explore its implications, drawing insights from Martha Beck and Admiral William McRaven, and emphasize the power of small wins in fostering motivation and success.

Additional topics covered:

• The significance of starting the day with a small victory.
• The connection between physical environment and mental clarity.
• How focusing on manageable tasks cultivates a mindset of structure and achievement.

Are you ready to do the next right thing? How do you know if it's the right thing? Join Chris and Ellie as they dive into the age-old dilemma of choosing between the easy path and doing what's right. From Mark Twain to Frozen, they explore the complexities of decision-making and offer insights on how to navigate these challenging moments.

Also in this episode:

• Ways to make decisions by thinking about the good and bad sides of a situation.
• Why it's important to give and receive feedback, even when it feels awkward.
• Why stepping out of your comfort zone and facing challenges can actually help you improve.

When is the last time you did something that really thrilled you? Join Chris and Ellie as they uncover the secret to managing energy: chasing goosebumps! Learn how to navigate your day to prioritize joy and recharge your batteries.

Also in this episode:

• Identifying activities that energize versus drain you throughout the day.
• Finding joy in small, everyday moments, even in mundane tasks.
• The importance of actively seeking out experiences that bring excitement and fulfillment to your life.

Change is inevitable, even for the Grow Further podcast! As we kick off a series of shorter episodes, Chris and Ellie dive into how to handle change like a boss.

In this episode:

• How a real-life CEO's embrace of change influenced Ellie.
• Big news for Chris that brings some big change for her personal life.
• A tip on how to look at change in a new way this year.

It's easy to focus on the negative, but how often do you share the good things in your life with your friends? In this episode of the Grow Further podcast, Chris and Ellie explore the importance of sharing joy in relationships and challenge you to prioritize sharing joy with others this year. They discuss the vulnerability associated with sharing joy and how it can be hindered by factors like negative comparison, guilt, and fear of seeming braggadocios.

Also in this episode:

• What is Freudenfreude and the importance of being a joy multiplier
• How sharing joy builds trust in a relationship
• A new definition for LOL in 2024

Having trouble finding joy in your life? We have the prescription for you! In this episode of the Grow Further Podcast, hosts Chris and Ellie discuss the concept of finding joy as a means of improving overall well-being and health. They explore the benefits of positive emotions, emphasizing the interconnectedness of joy and gratitude.

Also in this episode:

• The difference between joy and gratitude.
• How positive emotions can counteract negative emotions and enhance resilience.
• Tips for finding joy in your life.

Referenced in this episode: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17027886/