Rise and Thrive: Conversations For Greatness with John Merkus

40: Unlocking Resilience and Thriving in Every Moment

🔑 Episode Summary: Join John Merkiss and Matt Cordner in this uplifting episode of Rise and Thrive Conversations for Greatness as they reveal how to build emotional resilience and embrace every moment of life—no matter the challenges. Discover the five key components of emotional resilience and uncover a surprising sixth element: gratitude.
🌟 This episode is packed with actionable tools, motivational insights, and a few laughs along the way, empowering you to take charge of your resilience journey!
✨ Key Takeaways:
💡 Redundancy Reframed: Why being made redundant is a compliment and a sign of success.
🌿 Be Present: How focusing on the present moment can reduce stress and bring peace.
💪 Build Resilience: Learn about the five components of emotional resilience.
🙏 Gratitude’s Power: How practicing gratitude strengthens resilience and enhances well-being.
📓 Practical Tools: Start a gratitude journal and create daily savoring rituals for a more resilient life.
📅 Segment Highlights:
🚀 Kickstart Your Week: Turn redundancy into an opportunity for personal and professional growth.
🔄 Resilience Reboot: Discover the five essential components of emotional resilience.
🛠️ Toolbox Time: Learn how a gratitude journal can transform your mindset.
🧘‍♂️ Mindful Minute: A simple mindfulness practice to savor life’s moments.
💬 Motivational Quote: "As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter the words, but to live by them." —JFK
😂 Humor Break: John’s lighthearted joke to bring a smile to your day.
Book Your Free 30-Minute Call Today!
Curious about how ResilienceX can help you? Let’s connect! Schedule a 30-minute, obligation-free call with us, and we’ll explore how this program can be tailored to meet your unique needs.
👉 Click here to book your call now.
Join the movement. Empower yourself with ResilienceX.
Stay Connected:
📧 Join the Mailing List: Email John at john@johnmerkus.com to join the mailing list for exclusive updates and discounts.
🌟 Leave a 5-star rating and review of the Rise & Thrive: Conversations for Greatness Podcast. Email a screenshot to john@johnmerkus.com to receive a free gift.
👥 Join our thriving community on Facebook: Facebook Group
📷 Stay connected:  Instagram
🌐 For more resources and information, visit: John Merkus
 
📚 Legal Stuff: This podcast is for educational purposes only. Any liability, loss, or damage resulting from the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein is disclaimed. All content is protected under U.S. and international copyright and trademark laws. For permissions or inquiries, contact john@johnmerkus.com.

39: Resilience Reimagined: Transforming Adversity into Opportunity with Optimism and Action

Welcome to another empowering episode of Rise and Thrive Conversations for Greatness, where we continue our Resilience Revolution series. 🌟 Join host John Merkus and resilience expert Matt Cordner as they dive deep into flipping the narrative on resilience—from something burdensome to a powerful, positive force.
🔑 Episode Highlights:
💡 Flipping Resilience to the Positive: Learn how resilience, often seen as a heavy burden, can actually be a powerful source of growth and strength.
⏳ Kickstart Your Week: Discover how "time is your friend." John shares why allowing time to process challenges and find solutions is key to embracing change in today’s fast-paced world.
🔄 Resilience Reboot with VUCA: Shift your mindset by turning Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity into Vision, Understanding, Clarity, and Agility. ✨
🧰 Toolbox Time: Introduce yourself to the "Adaptive Coping Strategy Wheel"—an easy-to-use tool for managing stress, shifting mindsets, and thriving in adversity.
🧘‍♂️ Mindful Minute: Tune into your personal coping mantra. Matt’s is "This too shall pass," while John shares his empowering affirmation from Louise Hay. 🙏
💬 Motivational Quote of the Day: "It’s your reaction to adversity, not adversity itself, that determines how your life story will develop."
📌 Key Takeaways:
🧠 Resilience is a Mindset: Reflect on your past successes with resilience to foster even more growth.
⏰ Time Heals: Whether it's a business challenge or personal difficulty, time can be your greatest ally.
🔄 Reframing VUCA: In challenging environments, adopt a mindset of Vision, Understanding, Clarity, and Agility.
🔧 Practical Tools for Everyday Resilience: Implement the Adaptive Coping Wheel and personal mantras to navigate tough situations.
😂 Humor & Optimism: Enjoy light-hearted moments with Matt and John, and leave with both valuable insights and a smile.
📞 Connect with Us:
📧 Interested in resilience training for your organisation? Reach out to John and Matt for personalised workshops and events tailored for growth and leadership.
🎉 Bonus! Get your free copy of the Adaptive Coping Strategy Wheel—no obligation, just practical tools to help you thrive. Simply reach out to us!
🎧 Subscribe & Follow Us!
Stay updated with all future episodes and resilience tips by subscribing to Rise and Thrive Conversations for Greatness on your favorite podcast platform.
Remember: Resilient people… have mothers. ❤️See you next week for another inspiring episode!
Become Part of the Resilience Revolution!
Are you ready to take control of uncertainty and turn challenges into opportunities? Don’t just survive—thrive with ResilienceX. Our program is designed to equip you with the tools and strategies to build resilience, achieve your goals, and maintain a positive mindset no matter what life throws your way.
Book Your Free 30-Minute Call Today!
Curious about how ResilienceX can help you? Let’s connect! Schedule a 30-minute, obligation-free call with us, and we’ll explore how this program can be tailored to meet your unique needs.
👉 Click here to book your call now.
Join the movement. Empower yourself with ResilienceX.
Stay Connected:
📧 Join the Mailing List: Email John at john@johnmerkus.com to join the mailing list for exclusive updates and discounts.
🌟 Leave a 5-star rating and review of the Rise & Thrive: Conversations for Greatness Podcast. Email a screenshot to john@johnmerkus.com to receive a free gift.
👥 Join our thriving community on Facebook: Facebook Group
📷 Stay connected:  Instagram
🌐 For more resources and information, visit: John Merkus
 
📚 Legal Stuff: This podcast is for educational purposes only. Any liability, loss, or damage resulting from the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein is disclaimed. All content is protected under U.S. and international copyright and trademark laws. For permissions or inquiries, contact john@johnmerkus.com.

38: Resilience Revolution: Unlocking the Secrets to Rising Strong and Thriving Through Life's Challenges

💪 Welcome to the Resilience Revolution!
In this uplifting and empowering episode of Rise and Thrive Conversations for Greatness, Season 2 - Resilience Radio, John Merkus, your host and resilience change management expert, kicks off the new season with his signature blend of wisdom, humor, and practical advice. Joined by the insightful Matt Cordner, a former political advisor turned university lecturer, this dynamic duo dives deep into what it truly means to be resilient in both personal and professional life.
🗓️ Key Segments in This Episode:
1. 🚀 Kickstart the Week
Story: John shares a heartfelt and relatable story about the challenges of parenting, revealing the importance of the seven-second rule in managing stress and emotions.
Insight: Matt chimes in with his own experiences as a parent, highlighting the internal resilience required to guide his daughter through the nerve-wracking process of learning to drive.
2. 🔄 Resilience Reboot
Secrets: Discover the "Three Secrets of Resilient People" as John and Matt break down the essential habits and mindsets that help individuals not just survive but thrive through life's inevitable ups and downs.
Focus: Learn how to ask yourself the critical question, "Is what I'm doing now harming or helping me?" and why focus and optimism are crucial components of resilience.
3. 🛠️ Toolbox Time
Tools: Looking for practical tools to boost your resilience? John and Matt introduce you to "The Optimism Guy," Victor Pertin, and his incredible resources at CenterforOptimism.com.
Resource: Whether you're just starting your resilience journey or looking to deepen your practice, this segment offers valuable insights and tools to help you stay strong and optimistic.
4. 🧘 Mindful Minute
Reflection: Take a moment to reflect with our Mindful Minute segment. John and Matt encourage listeners to regularly ask themselves, "Is what I'm doing right now helping or hindering me?"
Practice: This simple yet powerful practice can make a significant difference in how you navigate challenges and maintain a positive outlook.
5. 💬 Motivational Quote
Quote: "Resilience is not about bouncing back; it's about rising strong, adapting, and growing through every challenge. Embrace your inner strength and let every setback be a setup for an incredible comeback."
Inspiration: This quote encapsulates the essence of today's discussion and serves as a powerful reminder that every challenge is an opportunity to grow stronger.
6. 😄 A Laugh to End the Show
Joke: No episode would be complete without a good laugh! John wraps up the show with a classic dad joke that perfectly embodies the light-hearted spirit of the Resilience Revolution.
👉 Join John and Matt as they share their wisdom, personal stories, and practical tips to help you build your resilience and thrive in every area of your life. Whether you're facing a tough time or simply looking to strengthen your mental and emotional toolkit, this episode is packed with valuable insights that will inspire you to keep rising, no matter what life throws your way.
Become Part of the Resilience Revolution!
Are you ready to take control of uncertainty and turn challenges into opportunities? Don’t just survive—thrive with ResilienceX. Our program is designed to equip you with the tools and strategies to build resilience, achieve your goals, and maintain a positive mindset no matter what life throws your way.
Book Your Free 30-Minute Call Today!
Curious about how ResilienceX can help you? Let’s connect! Schedule a 30-minute, obligation-free call with us, and we’ll explore how this program can be tailored to meet your unique needs.
👉 Click here to book your call now.
Join the movement. Empower yourself with ResilienceX.
Stay Connected:
📧 Join the Mailing List: Email John at john@johnmerkus.com to join the mailing list for exclusive updates and discounts.
🌟 Leave a 5-star rating and review of the Rise & Thrive: Conversations for Greatness Podcast. Email a screenshot to john@johnmerkus.com to receive a free gift.
👥 Join our thriving community on Facebook: Facebook Group
📷 Stay connected:  Instagram
🌐 For more resources and information, visit: John Merkus
 
📚 Legal Stuff: This podcast is for educational purposes only. Any liability, loss, or damage resulting from the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein is disclaimed. All content is protected under U.S. and international copyright and trademark laws. For permissions or inquiries, contact john@johnmerkus.com.

37: Rising Together: Celebrating Triumphs and Embracing Future Greatness

Welcome to the grand finale of Season 1 of Rise and Thrive Conversations for Greatness! In this special episode, we reflect on the incredible journey we've shared over 37 inspiring episodes. From personal growth and motivation to tales of resilience and leadership, this season has truly been a testament to the potential within us all to rise and thrive.
Episode Highlights:
🔔 Opening Reflections: John Merkus begins with an inspiring message about new beginnings and the opportunities they bring.
🎉 Gratitude and Achievements: A heartfelt thank you to all our listeners for making our show one of the top 5% of all podcasts worldwide. John celebrates the milestone of 30 episodes and offers a special gift: his ebook, Five Ways to Rise and Thrive.
📅 Upcoming Projects: Exciting announcements about John's upcoming keynote speaking gigs, professional MC duties, and new guided meditations. Plus, get a sneak peek into the upcoming merchandise featuring uplifting messages.
🔄 Season Recap: John takes us through the highlights of Season 1, recalling the most memorable moments and guest insights, from Karina Murphy's personal coaching to Emily Perkins' most listened-to episode on the hidden language of the soul.
🧠 Personal Insights: John opens up about his own experiences with resilience, sharing tools and techniques to maintain positivity and bounce back from challenges.
🚀 Future Plans: A look ahead to Season 2, promising even more amazing guests, insightful conversations, and a potential new venture into true crime podcasting.
Stay Connected:
📧 Join the Mailing List: Email John at john@johnmerkus.com to join the mailing list for exclusive updates and discounts.
🎁 Special Offers: Get your free copy of Five Ways to Rise and Thrive and explore upcoming courses like Resilience X.
Closing Message:
John wraps up with a heartfelt thanks and a promise of even greater things to come in Season 2. He leaves listeners with a smile, sharing a dad joke to remind us all to keep rising and thriving.
Stay awesome and see you in Season 2!
 
🌟 Leave a 5-star rating and review of the Rise & Thrive: Conversations for Greatness Podcast. Email a screenshot to john@johnmerkus.com to receive a free gift.
👥 Join our thriving community on Facebook: Facebook Group
📷 Stay connected:  Instagram
🌐 For more resources and information, visit: John Merkus
🎵 Check out the energizing Merko Motivation Spotify playlist: Listen here
 
📚 Legal Stuff: This podcast is for educational purposes only. Any liability, loss, or damage resulting from the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein is disclaimed. All content is protected under U.S. and international copyright and trademark laws. For permissions or inquiries, contact john@johnmerkus.com.
🎙️[Opening & Closing Music: "Winning Elevation" by Hot Music] 

36: Ignite Your Inner Fire: A Journey to Fitness and Fulfilment

🌟 Episode Overview:
Welcome to another inspiring episode of Rise and Thrive: Conversations for Greatness with your host, John Merkus. This week, we dive deep into personal growth, motivation, and inspiration, providing you with the tools and stories to succeed. Join us as we embark on a transformative journey from consultation to transformation, exploring how setting crystal-clear goals, embracing accountability, and staying consistent can ignite your inner fire and build a stronger you from the inside out.
Over the past seven weeks leading up to my trip to Las Vegas and Mexico, I trained with my dedicated personal trainer, Brad Cuskelly. Brad has over 20 years of experience in the health and fitness industry and is passionate about health, fitness, and nutrition. He lives and breathes fitness, having competed in Junior and Elite level triathlons, winning numerous titles, and even competing in the World Championships. Brad holds qualifications as a Personal Trainer and a Remedial Massage Therapist, making him an exceptional guide on this fitness journey.
In this episode, you'll hear a collection of raw conversations after each session with Brad. It's just a couple of guys having a chat post-workout, but the insights and transformations are powerful. Follow me on this fitness journey, and I hope it inspires you to embark on your own path to wellness. Let's rise and thrive together, turning aspirations into achievements and conversations into greatness.
 
🎧 Key Highlights:
📈 Setting Goals and Accountability: Discover the importance of goal-setting and having an accountability partner in achieving fitness success.
🔥 The Fireplace Analogy: Understand how Brad uses the analogy of a fireplace to explain the importance of consistent nutrition and fueling your body.
🗣️ Real Conversations: Enjoy candid discussions on personal growth, motivation, and the challenges faced during the fitness journey.
💪 Inspiration and Motivation: Get inspired by the progress and transformations experienced over seven weeks of training.
🎯 Why You Should Listen:
This episode is packed with actionable insights and motivational stories that will inspire you to take charge of your health and wellness. Whether you're looking to start your own fitness journey or need that extra push to keep going, the real-life experiences and wisdom shared by Brad and myself will provide the encouragement you need. Listen in to discover practical tips on setting goals, staying accountable, and maintaining consistency in your fitness routine. This isn't just about physical transformation; it's about fostering a mindset that embraces challenges and celebrates growth.
💬 Quotes to Remember:
"If it doesn't challenge you, it won't change you." - Brad Cuskelly
 
🎧 Tune in to Rise and Thrive Conversations for Greatness for more episodes that inspire, uplift, and motivate you to embrace your path to greatness.
 
🌟 Leave a 5-star rating and review of the Rise & Thrive: Conversations for Greatness Podcast. Email a screenshot to john@johnmerkus.com to receive a free gift.
👥 Join our thriving community on Facebook: Facebook Group
📷 Stay connected:  Instagram
🌐 For more resources and information, visit: John Merkus
🎵 Check out the energizing Merko Motivation Spotify playlist: Listen here
 
📚 Legal Stuff: This podcast is for educational purposes only. Any liability, loss, or damage resulting from the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein is disclaimed. All content is protected under U.S. and international copyright and trademark laws. For permissions or inquiries, contact john@johnmerkus.com.
🎙️[Opening & Closing Music: "Winning Elevation" by Hot Music] 

35: Explaining and Workshopping The Permission Model

Welcome back to Rise and Thrive: Conversations for Greatness! In this exciting episode, host John Merkus continues the enlightening discussion with Aaron Holesgrove on the transformative power of the permission model. If you missed Part 1 Episode 34, be sure to check it out for foundational insights that will enhance your approach to conversations.
📝 Episode Highlights:
🔑 Permission Model Explained: Aaron breaks down the five stages of the permission model—Permission, Context, The Question, Playback, and Permission again—demonstrating how it can revolutionize your communication skills.
💡 Real-World Applications: Discover practical examples and real-world scenarios where the permission model unlocks new opportunities and fosters meaningful connections.
🌟 Inspiring Stories: Listen to personal anecdotes that illustrate the model's impact on personal growth, motivation, and success.
🎭 Interactive Role-Play: John and Aaron engage in role-playing exercises that showcase the model's effectiveness, making the concepts easy to understand and apply.
🎧 Key Takeaways:
🙌 Respectful Dialogue: Learn how to create a respectful and empowering dialogue that invites deeper, more meaningful conversations.
📚 Importance of Context and Playback: Understand the importance of context and playback in ensuring your questions are well-received and that you fully grasp the responses.
🚀 Elevate Your Interactions: Discover how to use the permission model to elevate your personal and professional interactions, leading to greater success and fulfillment.
📞 Connect with Us:
🗣️ Share Your Thoughts: Share your thoughts and experiences with the permission model! We'd love to hear how it has impacted your conversations. Reach out to us through the contact information provided in the show notes.
🔔 Call to Action:
Aaron and I would love to hear how you’ve applied the permission model in your conversations! Share your experiences and feedback with us. And if you haven’t already, please leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts to help us reach more listeners and continue delivering great content.
🌐Connect with John
👥 Join our thriving community on Facebook: Facebook Group
📷 Stay connected:  Instagram
🌐 For more resources and information, visit: John Merkus
🎵 Check out the energizing Merko Motivation Spotify playlist: Listen here
🌐Connect with Aaron
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronholesgrove/
📚 Legal Stuff: This podcast is for educational purposes only. Any liability, loss, or damage resulting from the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein is disclaimed. All content is protected under U.S. and international copyright and trademark laws. For permissions or inquiries, contact john@johnmerkus.com.
🎙️[Opening & Closing Music: "Winning Elevation" by Hot Music] 

34: From Good to Great: Transforming Conversations with the Permission Model

Today, we are thrilled to welcome back a remarkable guest who embodies the essence of continual personal development and effective communication. Aaron Holesgrove joins us once again to share his insights on enhancing personal development and honing communication skills.
📝 Episode Highlights:
Personal Development and Communication: Aaron discusses his latest strategies for personal growth and effective communication, showcasing how these can elevate our lives.
The Permission Model: Dive deep into the transformative power of the permission model. Aaron breaks down how this approach can lead to more meaningful and impactful conversations.
Real-Life Applications: Through engaging anecdotes and real-world examples, Aaron illustrates the practical application of the permission model in both personal and professional settings.
Building Strong Relationships: Learn how incorporating permission into your interactions can foster respect, understanding, and deeper connections with others.
Inspiration and Motivation: Aaron’s journey and experiences provide a powerful source of inspiration for listeners striving for greatness in their own lives.
✨ Special Moments:
Aaron’s unique perspective on balancing technical expertise with people skills in his role as a project manager and agile coach.
Insightful discussion on the importance of happiness and support in team dynamics.
Personal anecdotes from Aaron’s life, including raising eight children and how personal development plays a crucial role in managing his daily responsibilities.
The importance of empathy, relatedness, and the power of autonomy in leadership, revisiting the SCARF model.
🎯 Listener Takeaways:
Implementing Permission in Conversations: Practical tips on how to ask for permission and why it enhances the quality of interactions.
Improving Workplace Dynamics: How leaders can use the permission model to create a more supportive and effective work environment.
Personal Growth: Encouragement to incorporate continual personal development into daily life, using Aaron’s strategies as a guide.
🔔 Call to Action:
Aaron and I would love to hear how you’ve applied the permission model in your conversations! Share your experiences and feedback with us. And if you haven’t already, please leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review on Spotify or Apple Podcasts to help us reach more listeners and continue delivering great content.
 
 
🌐Connect with John
👥 Join our thriving community on Facebook: Facebook Group
📷 Stay connected:  Instagram
🌐 For more resources and information, visit: John Merkus
🎵 Check out the energizing Merko Motivation Spotify playlist: Listen here
🌐Connect with Aaron
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronholesgrove/
📚 Legal Stuff: This podcast is for educational purposes only. Any liability, loss, or damage resulting from the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein is disclaimed. All content is protected under U.S. and international copyright and trademark laws. For permissions or inquiries, contact john@johnmerkus.com.
🎙️[Opening & Closing Music: "Winning Elevation" by Hot Music] 

33: Empowering Your Inner Greatness: Conquering Imposter Syndrome

🎙 Welcome to another empowering episode of Rise and Thrive Conversations for Greatness! Today, we are joined by the indomitable Mindi Lyons, also known as the Fenyx, who brings a wealth of experience and inspiration, diving deep into a topic that resonates with many: Imposter Syndrome.
🔥 Episode Highlights:
👥 Breaking Down Imposter Syndrome: Mindi shares her unique perspective on why feelings of inadequacy are often based on false narratives imposed by others.
🌈 Visualizing Your Highest Self: Discover the transformative power of envisioning and embodying your ideal self without limits, as Mindi walks us through her personal techniques for aligning with her true potential.
🛠 Practical Steps to Authenticity: Learn how simple changes in daily habits and self-perception can lead to profound shifts in confidence and personal fulfillment.
💡 Empowering Insights: Mindi emphasizes the importance of shedding externally imposed identities to uncover the ‘real you,’ encouraging listeners to embrace their highest self.
📖 Transformative Personal Stories: Reflecting on her journey, Mindi discusses how overcoming deep personal challenges has equipped her to inspire and uplift others.
🎓 What You’ll Learn:
How to challenge and change the deeply ingrained beliefs that contribute to imposter syndrome.
Techniques for journaling and self-reflection that help you map out and achieve your personal and professional goals.
Strategies for shifting from self-doubt to a mindset of growth and empowerment.
🌟 For Our Listeners: Mindi’s conversation is not just motivational; it’s a toolkit for anyone looking to break the chains of self-doubt and step into a life of purpose and authenticity. Whether you’re struggling with feeling like an imposter in your personal or professional life, this episode is a beacon of hope and transformation.
🔊 Tune in now and start your journey towards overcoming imposter syndrome and embracing your true greatness with Mindi Lyons on Rise and Thrive Conversations for Greatness. Don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review if Mindi’s words struck a chord with you!
🚀 Listen, Learn, and Thrive!
🌟 Leave a 5-star rating and review of the Rise & Thrive: Conversations for Greatness Podcast. Email a screenshot to john@johnmerkus.com to receive a free gift.
🌐Connect with John
👥 Join our thriving community on Facebook: Facebook Group
📷 Stay connected:  Instagram
🌐 For more resources and information, visit: John Merkus
🎵 Check out the energizing Merko Motivation Spotify playlist: Listen here
🌐Connect with Mindi
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheMindiShowInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/the.fenyx/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@themindishowPodcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/2L4pQdXZ1RBL6tXWhy66Rd?si=19130e8dc9874337
 
📚 Legal Stuff: This podcast is for educational purposes only. Any liability, loss, or damage resulting from the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein is disclaimed. All content is protected under U.S. and international copyright and trademark laws. For permissions or inquiries, contact john@johnmerkus.com.
🎙️[Opening & Closing Music: "Winning Elevation" by Hot Music]