Want to start the new year braver? In this episode, I’m sharing 8 quick soundtracks to tackle fear, crush overthinking, and jumpstart your courage. From turning stress into success to being as brave as your kids, these ideas will help you hit the ground running on your biggest goals. Let’s make this your boldest year yet! In This Episode: Sign up for my newsletter, Try This! Follow me on GoodReads Book me to speak at your event or to your team! I'm also on Instagram , Twitter , YouTube , and Fac...
Dec 09, 2024•18 min•Season 1Ep. 207
I love a good list, especially when it’s packed with amazing gift ideas. This year, I’m sharing 10 of our family’s favorite finds from 2024—things we’ve bought, loved, and can’t stop talking about. From a tiny acorn-growing vase to the Finish Journal I helped design, these are gifts that are practical, fun, and guaranteed to make you a holiday hero. (Don’t worry, I left the mole trap off the list.) Tune in and let’s make your shopping a whole lot easier this year! 10 Fantastic Gift Ideas! Acorn ...
Dec 02, 2024•19 min•Season 1Ep. 206
Have you ever wondered why success sometimes feels like a game of dodgeball, with distractions flying at you from every direction? Join me in this episode as I interview Craig Groeschel, New York Times bestselling author, and the founder and senior pastor of Life.Church , which created the free YouVersion Bible App. We’re diving deep into the wild world of leadership and uncovering how to navigate the pitfalls of achievement. From battling the boss called pride to building a fortress of accounta...
Nov 25, 2024•46 min•Season 1Ep. 205
Thanksgiving is practically designed for family debates, especially the kind that get sparked right as you’re reaching for the mashed potatoes. But this year, I’ve got one sentence that will change everything: “Politicians are temporary, family is forever.” In this episode, we’re talking about how to keep things calm, keep your cool, and maybe even enjoy the meal without ducking into the pantry for a pie break. Give it a listen, and let’s make this Thanksgiving one that’s memorable—in a good way...
Nov 18, 2024•14 min•Season 1Ep. 204
I had an awesome conversation with my friend, Graham Cochrane, about goal-setting, career pivots, and discovering your unique purpose. We dove into the pressures we face, how to manage overthinking, and why it’s so important to pursue a life that aligns with who you really are. If you’re struggling with work-life balance, thinking about making a business shift, or just need help pushing past self-doubt, this episode is packed with practical insights you can use. Graham also shares some wisdom fr...
Nov 11, 2024•50 min•Season 1Ep. 203
You've probably heard the classic quote, “You’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” But what does that really mean for your life? In this episode, I’ll break down why your circle isn’t just a group of friends—it’s a blueprint for who you’re becoming. I’ll share personal stories, like how running with friends unexpectedly made me faster and how the right people can level up every area of your life. Plus, I'll give you three super practical ways to put this concept into ...
Nov 04, 2024•17 min•Season 1Ep. 202
I have a prediction for you—2025 is going to be your Greatest Year Ever . You’re going to tackle those big goals, beat procrastination, perfectionism, and all the usual roadblocks, and it all starts now. In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how you can make that happen with my new 8-week challenge designed to help you start 2025 with a rock-solid mindset, a clear plan, and the tools to make success inevitable. If you’ve ever felt like you're stuck or unsure of how to take that next big ste...
Oct 28, 2024•16 min•Season 1Ep. 201
It’s the 200th episode of the podcast! I can’t believe we’ve reached this milestone together. In this episode, we’re talking about election stress and how to handle it. You know those anxious soundtracks that play on repeat in your head during election season? They’re exhausting, but they don’t have to control you. Today, I’m sharing 7 practical election soundtracks that will help you survive the stress, get more sleep, and stay focused on what really matters. From looking forward to the future ...
Oct 21, 2024•18 min•Season 1Ep. 200
I don’t usually do breaking podcasts, but this story was too incredible not to share. My guest, David Jones, reached out with a story that perfectly ties into Soundtracks . When a hurricane hit western North Carolina, David faced a series of impossible obstacles trying to reach his daughter’s wedding. But he made it—on foot, through the devastation, determined to walk her down the aisle. In this episode, David shares his unbelievable journey and how the soundtracks he used helped him keep going ...
Oct 14, 2024•33 min•Season 1Ep. 199
Have you ever felt like quitting? I have. And in this episode, we’re going to talk about two powerful ways to change how you feel when you’re at that breaking point. This is a lean-in episode, so I need you to lean in with me. I see something incredible in you—your potential, your joy, your success—even if you don’t see it yet. Together, we’ll explore how to turn those negative thoughts into ones that push you forward, not hold you back. And if you're ready to take this mindset shift to the next...
Oct 07, 2024•21 min•Season 1Ep. 198
In this episode, I’m diving into three big lies that I think are putting way too much pressure on Gen Z and Millennials—“Do it while you’re young,” “Don’t grow up, it’s a trap,” and the idea that you have to choose between joy and responsibility. I used to believe some of these myself, but now that I’m in my 40s, I’ve learned something better. You don’t have to choose between making memories and building a life you love. Join me as I share some personal stories, lessons I’ve learned, and why I t...
Sep 30, 2024•18 min•Season 1Ep. 197
In this episode, I’m sharing some of the meanest things my kids have ever said to me—and trust me, they’re hilarious. We’ll also dive into a common myth that makes parenting way harder than it has to be. If you’ve ever believed raising teens has to be a nightmare, I’m here to tell you it doesn’t. A simple mindset shift can change everything. And since we’re in the middle of a parenting season on the podcast, don’t forget to check out my brand new book How Teens Win , co-written with my two daugh...
Sep 23, 2024•15 min•Season 1Ep. 196
Does your teenager barely talk to you anymore? In this episode, I’ll not only explain why that happens, but also how to change it. I’ll share three soundtracks that make starting conversations with your kids easier, plus a personal story about dreaming big with my daughter. If you want to build stronger connections with your teens, check out my new book, How Teens Win , that I co-wrote with my daughters. It’s available now wherever books are sold! In This Episode: Sign up for my newsletter, Try ...
Sep 16, 2024•18 min•Season 1Ep. 195
Have you ever wondered how teens can actually win at social media instead of just surviving it? In this episode, I’m sharing three key soundtracks that will help teens thrive online. From building a positive presence and setting healthy boundaries, to avoiding the comparison trap, I’ll give you practical tips to make sure social media is working for your teen, not against them. We’re in the middle of a big parenting season at the Acuff house! I’ve got a brand new book coming out that I wrote wit...
Sep 09, 2024•20 min•Season 1Ep. 194
In this episode, I’m giving you an exclusive sneak peek into our new book How Teens Win , which releases on September 10. First, I’ll read the intro to set the stage, and then my daughter LE will take over with the first chapter. It’s a little taste of the wisdom, laughs, and real-life advice we’ve packed into this book. Whether you’re a teen, parent, grandparent, teacher, or coach (or just someone who loves a good story), this episode is for you. Listen and hear why How Teens Win isn’t just a b...
Sep 02, 2024•30 min•Season 1Ep. 193
Ever feel like your brain is stuck in a loop of worries? In this episode, I’m sharing one simple trick that will help you worry less and accomplish more. Here’s how it started: On a Sunday afternoon, the number 5 kept bouncing around in my head. I needed to run 5 miles, but every part of me wanted to bail. My brain was pulling out all the stops to convince me not to do it. But instead of letting those worries win, I decided to flip the script. In this episode, I’ll show you how repeating a singl...
Aug 26, 2024•15 min•Season 1Ep. 192
In this episode, I’m hanging out with my daughter McRae to chat about one of our family’s go-to topics: soundtracks. We’re digging into how the soundtracks in our heads help us set goals, dodge those unforced errors, and make life a little more fun. Whether it’s packing your lunch the night before or remembering to put your shoes on first (trust me, it’s a game-changer), we’ll share the stories and quirky lessons that have become the soundtracks we live by. And yes, we’ll even tackle why showing...
Aug 19, 2024•27 min•Season 1Ep. 191
In this episode, I dive into two powerful ways to change how you feel when you want to quit. Fear often targets those who dare to dream and it uses surprise and the "shouldn't feel this way" tactic to hold you back. I'll share my practical "If/Then" thinking and how repetition and relationships can help you push through fear. Learn to anticipate fear's tricks, prepare for them, and find the support you need to stay motivated. Don’t let fear dictate your journey—beat it with these essential tools...
Aug 12, 2024•13 min•Season 1Ep. 190
I still remember the first time I tried email in 1997. I thought it was terrible and wouldn’t catch on. Fast forward to today, and email has improved (and definitely caught on!) but remains a constant distraction. This year, I decided to tackle my inbox by limiting email checks to 30 focused minutes a day, five days a week. The results were transformative. I received fewer emails, realized I wasn’t as essential as I thought, and boosted my productivity, tripling my writing output. The discipline...
Aug 05, 2024•14 min•Season 1Ep. 189
What did I learn from a 10-second interaction with a billionaire CEO? Join me for this episode, as I recount a pivotal moment with Dan Cathy, CEO of Chick-fil-A. Fourteen years ago, I had the privilege of working with Dan and learned invaluable lessons on leadership and humility. From taking out the trash to teaching a high school Sunday School class, Dan's actions demonstrated his commitment to serving others. True success lies in valuing human connections and being open to interruptions. Learn...
Jul 29, 2024•14 min•Season 1Ep. 188
Want to learn how to make your thoughts work for you, not against you? In this episode, I share my journey from skeptic to believer in the power of positive affirmations, visualization, and self-competition. It took me decades to figure this out, but now I’m here to show you three simple mindset tricks that can change your life. These practical tips have been game-changers for me and countless others. Tune in and discover how the road to great results always starts with great thoughts. Sign up f...
Jul 22, 2024•14 min•Season 1Ep. 187
What does it take to go from a small-town upbringing to coaching Fortune 500 executives and professional athletes? Join me as I sit down with Jordan Montgomery, owner of Montgomery Companies and author of The Art of Encouragement: How to Lead Teams, Spread Love, and Serve from the Heart . Jordan shares insights into his journey, emphasizing leadership lessons learned in the financial services industry and the role of authentic encouragement. We discuss balancing professional success with family ...
Jul 15, 2024•57 min•Season 1Ep. 186
Have you ever wondered why some efforts pay off while others fall short? In this episode, I'm diving into a concept close to my heart: the Law of the Harvest. Over the past decade running my own business, writing books, and speaking at countless events, I've come to realize that this principle—reaping what you sow—holds true in every aspect of life. Whether it's nurturing relationships, building a business, or improving personal health, every effort we put in directly influences the results we a...
Jul 08, 2024•16 min•Season 1Ep. 185
How can leaders continue to improve and maintain a commitment to lifelong learning? Come along with me in this episode as I dive into the world of leadership learning with David Novak, former CEO of Yum! Brands. David shares his unique idea collection system and dives deep into why maintaining focus is crucial for long-term success. We'll explore those moments when leaders hit a learning slump and uncover effective strategies to reignite that curiosity. You'll also discover the transformative po...
Jul 01, 2024•58 min•Season 1Ep. 184
Welcome back to the podcast for part 2 of How To Finish Any Goal In 4 Words! In the last episode, we dove into Results and Actions. Now, let's tackle the next two: Time and Motivation. I'll share practical strategies to make the most of your time and keep your motivation high as you work towards your goals. Whether it's writing a book or chasing any other dream, these insights will be your guide. Plus, I'll introduce you to the Finish Journal, a powerful tool I've created to support you every st...
Jun 24, 2024•17 min•Season 1Ep. 183
In this episode of All It Takes is a Goal, I’m excited to share the first two words of my four-word formula for achieving any goal: "Results" and "Actions." I’ll explain why 92% of New Year's resolutions fail and how you can avoid becoming part of that statistic. I’ll show you how to define clear results and take practical actions to reach your objectives, using my book-writing process as an example. Plus, I’ll introduce you to the Finish Journal, a new tool I created with Leuchtturm1917 to help...
Jun 17, 2024•23 min•Season 1Ep. 182
Do you feel like fear has a bit too much say in your life and thoughts? In this episode, I’m sharing seven new soundtracks to crush the fear that has been getting a vote in your lives and thoughts. You’ll be amazed at the difference it will make when you try these affirmations for a week! Remember, you have to work to find hope, positivity, and joy, but trust me, it’s absolutely worth it. Tune in and let's conquer fear together! Sign up for my newsletter, Try This! Follow me on GoodReads Book me...
Jun 10, 2024•14 min•Season 1Ep. 181
How do successful entrepreneurs tackle the challenge of maintaining focus? Join me for a captivating conversation with Dan Martell as we dive into this crucial aspect of entrepreneurship. Dan, a Wall Street Journal best-selling author, entrepreneur, and angel investor, became a highly sought-after coach in the SaaS industry after exiting three technology companies within ten years. Dan shares savvy insights on reclaiming time through hiring strategies and the importance of trust and streamlined ...
Jun 03, 2024•49 min•Season 1Ep. 180
Ready to unlock joy and growth in your career? Join me as I sit down with Scott Miller to explore his new career-focused book, Career on Course . Scott shares invaluable insights from his dynamic professional journey, emphasizing the importance of joy and self-awareness in personal and professional growth. As a multi-passionate individual, he highlights the significance of experimentation to discover what truly resonates. Tune into our conversation about reading habits, productivity, and unlocki...
May 27, 2024•42 min•Season 1Ep. 179
Do you want to learn how to make the most of your mornings? Join me and guest Jeff Sanders, author of The 5 A.M. Miracle: Dominate Your Day Before Breakfast and a renowned podcaster, as we look at ways to master your mornings and optimize your day. Jeff shares his expertise on the weekly review process and agile goal setting, offering invaluable insights into planning your week and setting achievable goals. Learn the importance of setting smaller, actionable goals aligned with larger objectives....
May 20, 2024•41 min•Season 1Ep. 178
