All It Takes Is A Goal - podcast cover

All It Takes Is A Goal

Jon Acuff acuff.me
Jon Acuff is the New York Times bestselling author of ten books, including his most recent, All it Takes is a Goal.


Published in dozens of languages, his work is both critically acclaimed and adored by readers. When he's not writing, Acuff can be found on a stage, as one of INC's Top 100 Leadership Speakers. He's spoken to hundreds of thousands of people at conferences, colleges and companies around the world including FedEx, Range Rover, Microsoft, Chick-fil-A, and Comedy Central. Known for his insights wrapped in humor, Acuff shared the stage with an American Icon when he opened up for Dolly Parton at the Ryman Auditorium.


Jon lives outside of Nashville, TN with his wife Jenny and two daughters.


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Episodes

ATG 237: Summer Soundtracks Part 1: I Am the CEO of My Actions, Not My Outcomes

Have you ever felt frustrated trying to control things that are completely out of your hands? In this episode, I'm kicking off a new summer series where I randomly pick cards from my Soundtracks Conversation Deck and share the mindset shifts that can change everything. Today's soundtrack: "I am the CEO of my actions, not the CEO of my outcomes." We'll talk about why remarkable people focus on what they can control while accepting what they can't, plus I'll share how this one shift helped me stop...

Jul 07, 202519 minSeason 1Ep. 237

ATG 236: The "Too Busy" Lie and 2 Systems That Will Change Everything with Mo Bunnell

Do you ever catch yourself saying "I'm too busy" when someone asks you to connect? Mo Bunnell, author of Give to Grow , says that's one of five lies keeping us stuck—and he's got the research to prove it. In this episode, Mo breaks down his "Cut to Climb" process (30 minutes quarterly to find 50 hours you'll never waste again) and his MIT system for weekly planning that actually works. Plus, you'll hear about his genius ChatGPT setups for family, work, and decision-making that sound like somethi...

Jun 30, 202550 minSeason 1Ep. 236

ATG 235: 3 Things I Learned From Simon Sinek That Changed Everything

A few years ago, Simon Sinek and I had the same editor. Since then, I've had the chance to learn from him, and let me tell you—it's been a game changer. In this episode, I'm sharing three lessons Simon taught me: why you should be able to draw your idea on a napkin, why short beats long every time, and the power of being kind to people behind you. Plus, I'll tell you about an unexpected birthday surprise that perfectly illustrates why the encouragement you put out comes back to you in ways you n...

Jun 23, 202517 minSeason 1Ep. 235

ATG 234: Awesome is Never Accidental

I've never met someone who accidentally got in shape. Or accidentally had a great marriage. Or accidentally built a million-dollar business. You know why? Because awesome is never accidental. In this episode, I'm sharing how this simple 4-word soundtrack will change how you think about achievement. After interacting with hundreds of thousands of people online and learning from CEOs across different industries, I've discovered that successful people are intentional about three specific things: th...

Jun 16, 202514 minSeason 1Ep. 234

ATG 233: 37 Ways to Have the Greatest Summer Ever (Part 2)

Ready to continue making this your most intentional summer? In this episode, I'm sharing the final 19 ways to elevate your summer from average to extraordinary. From buying the weirdest thing at your local farmer's market, to exploring your dream neighborhood, to committing to reading with your kids—these actionable ideas will inspire you to make the most of the season. No need to have heard part 1; you can jump right in! Whether you're looking to learn something new (art classes, fly fishing wi...

Jun 09, 202521 minSeason 1Ep. 233

ATG 232: 37 Ways to Have the Greatest Summer Ever (Part 1)

Summer is here, and in this episode, I'm sharing the first 18 of 37 incredible ways to make this your most remarkable summer yet. Why wait for January to set meaningful goals? From catching up with friends you've been meaning to see, to visiting quirky local attractions you've never explored, this list (created with help from my Guaranteed Goals Community) is packed with ideas that anyone can implement. Whether you're looking to finally try that neighborhood restaurant, learn a new card game, or...

Jun 02, 202523 minSeason 1Ep. 232

ATG 231: Turning Complicated into Collaborative with Ryan Leak

In this episode, I sit down with Ryan Leak to talk about his new book, How to Work with Complicated People . Ryan shares insights from coaching everyone from CEOs to NBA stars, explaining why talented people are often mislabeled as difficult, and how to maintain boundaries when success accelerates. We explore the warning signs of leaders going off the rails, Ryan's Mount Rushmore of books, and even his predictions for the NBA Finals. Whether you're dealing with complicated people or trying to av...

May 26, 202554 minSeason 1Ep. 231

ATG 230: Leaders Who Can't Be Questioned End Up Doing Questionable Things

Want to know the simplest leadership principle that makes people elbow each other when I share it on stage? "Leaders who can't be questioned end up doing questionable things." In this episode, I'll share how the gap between the boardroom and the break room creates problems, why your team might be editing their feedback by 15%, and my embarrassing story about a CEO with terrible Zoom lighting (spoiler: everyone lied and said it looked great). Whether you're leading a company, a family, or just yo...

May 19, 202516 minSeason 1Ep. 230

ATG 229: The Commencement Speech No One Has the Guts to Give

In this episode, I'm delivering the graduation speech I've never been asked to give. I've packed it with seven brutally honest pieces of advice for Gen Z graduates that you won't hear from those boring traditional speakers droning on about "wings" and "moxie." Whether you're 18 or 48, you'll find something in this graduation manifesto that might just change your life. And no, I didn't bring merch to sell afterward (though I definitely would if they'd let me). In This Episode: Make sure to follow...

May 12, 202518 minSeason 1Ep. 229

ATG 228: The 11-Minute Rule

In this episode, I share my revelation about accepting who you are instead of constantly trying to transform into someone else. I'll also tell you about my Phoenix epiphany, where I discovered that pushing through just 11 minutes of resistance unlocks flow in the work you're meant to do. Life gets easier when you stop swimming against your current. In This Episode: Make sure to follow me on Instagram and share with your friends! Keep up with my book list on GoodReads ! Sign up for my newsletter,...

May 05, 202514 minSeason 1Ep. 228

ATG 227: Fear Comes Free, Hope Takes Work

In this episode, I'm sharing six powerful words that completely changed my perspective on fear and hope. I'll tell you some embarrassing stories about my brain's automatic negativity (including how I ruined a surprise party and why I'd be terrible at running a popsicle stand), plus give you the practical hope-building strategies I use every single day. Because remember—fear shows up uninvited, but hope is worth working for! In This Episode: Make sure to follow me on Instagram and share with your...

Apr 28, 202515 minSeason 1Ep. 227

ATG 226: No Elevator at Everest: A Candid Conversation with my brother, Will Acuff

In this episode, I sit down with my younger brother Will—founder of Corner to Corner and author of No Elevator at Everest —for a raw, hilarious, and deeply meaningful conversation about goals, grit, and joy in the midst of real-life challenges. We talk about family dynamics, stolen cars, late-night wake ups, and the kind of leadership that gets built when nobody's watching. If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to lead with purpose when life doesn’t slow down, this episode is for you. Will'...

Apr 21, 202552 minSeason 1Ep. 226

ATG 225: Success or a Story: The Mindset That Helped Me Survive an Empty Room

In this episode, I’m sharing one of my favorite soundtracks: It will be a success or a story. It’s the mindset I use every time I try something new—like hosting a live event or leading a book club that nobody shows up to (yep, that actually happened… to a brave 9-year-old and to me). Whether your next goal works out exactly like you hoped or turns into a story you’ll tell for years, this episode will remind you that both outcomes are worth it. In This Episode: Make sure to follow me on Instagram...

Apr 14, 202516 minSeason 1Ep. 225

ATG 224: Fuel vs. Water: How to Protect Your Dreams

Not every friend deserves front-row seats to your dreams. In this episode, I’m unpacking one question that completely changed how I think about relationships—and why some quietly discourage your growth. If you’ve ever wondered why a big idea fizzled or who to trust with your next bold goal, this one's for you. Let's talk about finding fuel friends and avoiding the sneaky word that can sink your progress: still. In This Episode: Make sure to follow me on Instagram and share with your friends! Kee...

Apr 07, 202515 minSeason 1Ep. 224

ATG 223: The Power of Encouragement: A Gift for Two

Encouragement isn’t just something you give—it’s something you get. When you take the time to lift someone else up, you walk away stronger too. In this episode, I’m sharing why encouragement matters and how it shows up in unexpected ways (including a recent story about my experience at my favorite Wendy’s restaurant). I’ll also share why I’m so excited about my Remarkable You live event coming up in less than two weeks! Let’s talk about how to encourage others and refresh ourselves in the proces...

Mar 31, 202516 minSeason 1Ep. 223

ATG 222: I'll Feel Awesome After

Starting is hard. Whether it’s running, writing a book, or driving home after a big event, the beginning never feels as good as the finish. But here’s the truth—you don’t have to feel awesome to get started. You’ll feel awesome after. In this episode, we’re talking about pushing through the messy middle, why the best dreams start in black and white but end in technicolor, and how action creates momentum. If you’re waiting to feel ready, don’t. Just start. In This Episode: Make sure to follow me ...

Mar 24, 202515 minSeason 1Ep. 222

ATG 221: Hills Pay The Bills

Nobody loves hills. Whether you’re running, traveling, or chasing a big goal, the uphill parts feel the hardest. But here’s the thing—hills pay the bills. They make you stronger, tougher, and better prepared for what’s next. In this episode, we’re talking about how to reframe hard things, why travel always comes with some woes, and how embracing the climb can lead to the biggest rewards. Because the best things in life? They’re usually at the top of a hill. Let’s start climbing. In This Episode:...

Mar 17, 202514 minSeason 1Ep. 221

ATG 220: Fear Gets A Voice, Not A Vote

Fear loves to run its mouth. It shouts worst-case scenarios, whispers doubts, and reminds you of every past failure. But here’s the deal—fear gets a voice, not a vote. In this episode, we’re talking about how to manage the soundtracks fear plays in your head and how to make sure it doesn’t get a say in your decisions. Because if you’re waiting to feel 100% fearless before you take action, you’ll be waiting forever. Let’s flip the script and move forward anyway. In This Episode: Make sure to foll...

Mar 10, 202514 minSeason 1Ep. 220

ATG 219: 4 Lessons I Learned Spending 1,000 Hours Outside

I spent 1,000 hours outside in 2024—not because I’m a rugged outdoorsman, but because I realized fresh air and big skies make life better. Along the way, I learned four surprising lessons about goals, marriage, and why keeping things simple is the key to actually finishing. If you’ve ever wanted to try a big goal (or just set up a tent without an argument), this episode is for you. In This Episode: Make sure to follow me on Instagram and share with your friends! Keep up with my book list on Good...

Mar 03, 202517 minSeason 1Ep. 219

ATG 218: Frustration or Fuel: Your Choice

Do you ever feel frustrated that you can’t afford something you really want? My nephew Anderson did. He wanted to go duck hunting and buy a dog—but his bank account had other plans. In this episode, I show him (and you) how to turn frustration into fuel, why a “When I have money, I’ll pay for ___” list changes everything, and how small sacrifices lead to big wins. The goals you can’t see are invisible—so let’s make them clear and take action. Your choice: frustration or fuel. In This Episode: Ma...

Feb 24, 202515 minSeason 1Ep. 218

ATG 217: 7 Reasons Most People Never Choose Remarkable

Do you ever wonder why so many people settle for average? I waited until I was 37 to deal with my procrastination—what was I waiting for? In this episode, I break down the 7 biggest reasons people don’t choose remarkable, why it’s always a choice, and how to stop waiting and start moving. The options are clear: remarkable or average. Let’s talk about how to actually choose remarkable. In This Episode: Make sure to follow me on Instagram and share with your friends! Keep up with my book list on G...

Feb 17, 202520 minSeason 1Ep. 217

ATG 216: The Choices You Make, Make You

After 14 years of business travel, I finally hit Delta Diamond Medallion Status—but not for the reasons you might think. In this episode, I break down why I still fly Southwest most of the time, how our daily decisions reveal what we truly value, and why matching your actions to your intentions is the key to success. Whether it’s airline choices, career moves, or how you spend your Saturdays, the choices you make, make you. Let’s talk about how to make better ones. In This Episode: Make sure to ...

Feb 10, 202515 minSeason 1Ep. 216

ATG 215: The Fix: How to Stop Getting in Your Own Way with Ian Morgan Cron

What if the key to real transformation has been hiding in plain sight? In this episode, I sit down with Ian Morgan Cron—bestselling author, psychotherapist, and Enneagram expert—to talk about his brand-new book, T he Fix: How the Twelve Steps Offer a Surprising Path of Transformation for the Well-Adjusted, the Down-and-Out, and Everyone In Between . We dive into why the 12 Steps aren’t just for people in recovery, how they offer a practical roadmap for anyone feeling stuck, and how self-awarenes...

Feb 03, 202553 minSeason 1Ep. 215

ATG 214: Be Kind to Yourself

If I spoke to my wife the way I talk to myself, we’d be divorced. Success doesn’t come from being your own worst critic—it comes from learning to be your best friend. In this episode, I’m sharing how kindness, simplicity, and a little grace can change everything. In This Episode: Make sure to follow me on Instagram and share with your friends! Keep up with my book list on GoodReads ! Sign up for my newsletter, Try This! Book me to speak at your event or to your team! My new book All It Takes Is ...

Jan 27, 202521 minSeason 1Ep. 214

ATG 213: My Word for the Year: Remarkable

This year, I'm embracing a new mantra: "I don't want to be relatable; I want to be remarkable." In this episode, I share the pivotal moment that led to this revelation and how it’s shaping my approach to life and goals in 2025. Join me as we explore what it means to pursue a remarkable life and how you can do the same. Plus, discover details about my upcoming live event, "Remarkable YOU," happening April 14-15, 2025, in Franklin, TN. Get your ticket at jonacuff.com/live . Let's make 2025 the yea...

Jan 20, 202515 minSeason 1Ep. 213

ATG 212: My 2025 Goals (Part 2)

How do you set goals that bring more fun and connection into your life? In Part 2, I’m sharing my relationship and fun goals for 2025, from daily encouragement to remarkable hours and spending July in the mountains. Let’s make this year about more than just work—it’s time to focus on what matters most. In This Episode: Grab your ticket for Jon’s Remarkable You Live Event ! Make sure to follow me on Instagram and share with your friends! Keep up with my book list on GoodReads ! Sign up for my new...

Jan 13, 202522 minSeason 1Ep. 212

ATG 211: My 2025 Goals (Part 1)

What’s the secret to setting goals you’ll actually stick to? In this episode, I’m sharing Part 1 of my 2025 goals, from running 700 miles to writing half a million words, and the strategies I’m using to make them happen. Let’s tackle our goals together. In This Episode: Grab your ticket for Jon’s Remarkable You Live Event ! Make sure to follow me on Instagram and share with your friends! Keep up with my book list on GoodReads ! Sign up for my newsletter, Try This! Book me to speak at your event ...

Jan 06, 202529 minSeason 1Ep. 211

ATG 210: Time Machines, Arrows, and Staying Present

Your brain loves time travel—regretting the past or worrying about the future—but distraction won’t help you hit your goals. In this episode, I’ll share why staying present is the secret to making real progress. From narrating your day to rewriting your future with optimism, we’ll talk about how to redirect your focus and use your imagination to fuel your goals, not your fears. Let’s tweak the coordinates and get you back on track. In This Episode: Grab your ticket for Jon’s Remarkable You Live ...

Dec 30, 202417 minSeason 1Ep. 210

ATG 209: The 7 Best Books I Read in 2024

This year, I read more than 100 books. Why so many? Because I wanted to! And because I chose to make time for it. In this episode, I’ll share my favorite tips for reading more in 2025 (spoiler alert: it starts with saying no to mediocre TV). You’ll also get my 7 top picks, from classic detective novels to soul-nourishing wisdom and even a little “woo woo” that actually works. If you’re ready to find your next great read, this episode is for you. My 2024 Book List: 1. " The Choice " by Og Mandino...

Dec 23, 202419 minSeason 1Ep. 209

ATG 208: 8 Ideas That Will Make You More Resilient

Resilience isn’t about never hitting obstacles—it’s about using them to your advantage. In this episode, I’m sharing 8 simple, practical ideas that will help you bounce back faster, push past limits, and build momentum like never before. Whether it’s flipping how you see challenges, making decisions before the pressure hits, or embracing tiny experiments that lead to big wins, these ideas will help you show up stronger and braver. Let’s dive in! In This Episode: Sign up for my newsletter, Try Th...

Dec 16, 202419 minSeason 1Ep. 208
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