Rise and Thrive: Conversations For Greatness with John Merkus

90:John vs. John 2.0: Can an AI Clone Teach Us About Change?

🎙️ John vs. John 2.0: Can an AI Clone Teach Us About Change?
✨ What happens when you put a world-class change leader in the same room as his own AI clone?
That’s exactly what unfolds in this episode of Rise and Thrive: Conversations for Greatness.
🌟 John Merkus, The Positive Change Guy takes listeners on a playful yet powerful journey as he introduces “John 2.0,” his AI-powered voice clone. And here’s the fun part you can try it too!👉 Click here to experience John’s AI voice
Together, John and his AI twin swap lines, test each other in a voice-guessing game, and even throw a few cheeky jabs.
But beneath the humour lies a bigger message:💡 Change isn’t here to scare us it’s here to unlock our superpower.
🎧 Tune In Now to Be InspiredWhether you're on a walk, driving, or just needing a boost, this conversation is for you. Hit play and rise into your greatness today.
🔑 Episode Highlights
Here’s what you’ll discover in this uplifting episode:
✅ A fun “Who Said It?” challenge between John and his AI twin✅ Why resisting change makes life feel heavy and how embracing it sets you free✅ The surprising ways AI can deepen human connection✅ Practical affirmations to ground yourself in uncertain moments✅ How setbacks can actually be setups for your next breakthrough
🤖 Try John 2.0 Yourself!
Curious to hear John’s AI twin in action?👉 Click here to experience John’s AI voice
💬 Loved It? Here’s What You Can Do Next:
👉 Share this episode with a friend who’s ready to rise⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify📲 Follow John Merkus for more uplifting content💌 Join the mailing list to get exclusive inspiration + free resources
🙏 About Your Host: John Merkus
🎤 Speaker | Transformation Coach | Positive Change Guy
John is a passionate speaker, transformation coach, and host of Rise and Thrive. His conversations are:✨ Thoughtful⚡ Energising💎 Packed with golden nuggets of wisdom
He brings out the best in every guest and even in his AI clone.
🚀 Join the Conversation!
💬 What’s one insight from this episode that resonated with you?Share your thoughts on social media with:#RiseAndThrive #GreatnessUnlocked #LeadWithHeart
🌐 Stay Connected & Inspired
✨ Explore the Fluid Reality Mindset App: www.johnmerkus.com📲 Follow & share your favourite moments:
YouTube
Instagram
Facebook Group
Twitter🎶 Fuel your day with the Merko Motivation Playlist
📜 Legal Stuff
By accessing this Podcast, you acknowledge that the contents are the property of John Merkus or used with permission, and are protected under copyright and trademark laws. Use for personal or educational purposes only. No reproduction, retransmission, or editing without prior written permission (contact: john@johnmerkus.com).
This podcast is for educational purposes only. The host claims no responsibility for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused by use or interpretation of the information presented herein.
⚡ Press play, try out John 2.0, get inspired, and keep thriving. Greatness is one action away.

89:Why Winners Win: 11 Timeless Traits of Champions

 
What if the gap between your current life and your dream life came down to just 11 traits?
In this energising and unforgettable episode of Rise and Thrive: Conversations for Greatness, John Merkus unpacks the proven habits, mindset shifts, and daily actions that set champions apart in business, sport, and life.
First delivered on stage over 20 years ago, these lessons have stood the test of time inspiring people to dream boldly, believe deeply, and act consistently. John’s passion and energy will leave you motivated to take action right now.
🌟 What You’ll Discover in This Episode
✨ Why having a clear dream is the foundation of every great achievement
💪 How to build unshakable self-belief and self-esteem
🔄 Turning setbacks into fuel for perseverance
🎯 Why commitment and preparation create “lucky” breaks
🤝 How goodwill, inspiration, and the right associations multiply your success
🎧 Tune In Now to Be InspiredWhether you're on a walk, driving, or just needing a boost, this conversation is for you. Hit play and rise into your greatness today.
💬 Loved It? Here’s What You Can Do Next
✅ Share this episode with a friend who’s ready to rise⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify📲 Follow John Merkus for more uplifting content💌 Join the mailing list for exclusive inspiration and free resources
🙏 About Your Host: John Merkus
John is a passionate speaker, transformation coach, and host of Rise and Thrive, committed to helping you become your best self. His conversations are thoughtful, energising, and packed with golden nuggets of wisdom. He brings out the best in every guest and this episode is no exception.
💬 Join the Conversation
What’s one insight from this episode that resonated with you?📣 Share your thoughts on social media with:#RiseAndThrive #GreatnessUnlocked #LeadWithHeart
📲 Stay Connected
🌐 Website: www.johnmerkus.com📺 YouTube: Rise and Thrive with John📷 Instagram: @jmerkus👥 Facebook Group: Join Here🐦 Twitter: @johnmerkus🎵 Spotify Playlist: Merko Motivation
✨ Press play, get inspired, and remember greatness is just one action away.
⚖️ Legal Stuff
By accessing this Podcast, I acknowledge that the entire contents are the property of John Merkus, or used by John Merkus with permission, and are protected under U.S. and international copyright and trademark laws. Except as otherwise provided herein, users of this Podcast may save and use information contained in the Podcast only for personal or other non-commercial, educational purposes. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission, or editing of this Podcast may be made without the prior written permission of John Merkus, which may be requested by contacting john@johnmerkus.com.
This podcast is for educational purposes only. The host claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein.

88:Most Loved, Most Listened: Emily on Rising and Thriving

Most Loved, Most Listened: Emily on Rising and Thriving
This is the most listened-to episode in Rise and Thrive: Conversations for Greatness history and for good reason.
In this heartfelt and uplifting conversation, John Merkus sits down with Emily to explore her incredible journey of resilience, hope, and personal transformation. Emily’s openness and courage have touched thousands of listeners, offering a reminder that even in life’s most difficult seasons, it’s possible to rise and thrive.
John’s thoughtful, energising style draws out Emily’s most inspiring insights, making this an episode you’ll carry with you long after it ends. Whether you’re tuning in again or hearing it for the first time, prepare to be moved, motivated, and reminded of your own strength.
🎧 Tune In Now to Be InspiredWhether you're on a walk, driving, or just needing a boost, this conversation is for you. Hit play and rise into your greatness today.
💬 Loved it? Here's What You Can Do Next:✅ Share this episode with a friend who’s ready to rise⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify📲 Follow John Merkus for more uplifting content💌 Join the mailing list to get exclusive inspiration and free resources
🙏 Connect with Emily🌐 Steppe’s School of Dance📸 Emily on Instagram
🙏 About Your Host: John MerkusJohn is a passionate speaker, transformation coach, and host of Rise and Thrive, committed to helping you become your best self. His conversations are thoughtful, energising, and always filled with golden nuggets of wisdom. He brings out the best in every guest and this episode is no exception.
🎧 Press play, get inspired, and keep thriving. Greatness is one action away.
💬 Join the Conversation!What’s one insight from this episode that resonated with you? Drop a comment or share your thoughts on social media with #RiseAndThrive #GreatnessUnlocked #LeadWithHeart
🚀 Hit play now, and let’s rise and thrive together!
✨ Stay Inspired and Keep Thriving ✨📲 Explore Fluid Reality Mindset App: www.johnmerkus.com🔗 Follow us on social media and share your favourite moments. We’d love to hear how you're implementing these tools in your life!
YouTube
Instagram
Facebook Group
Twitter
Merko Motivation Spotify Playlist

87:Break Free. Your Life. Your Power. Your Freedom

🎙️ Break Free. Your Life. Your Power. Your Freedom.
💥 Something powerful has been brewing for 20 years and it’s finally ready to meet the world.
In this heartfelt solo episode, your host John Merkus invites you behind the curtain and into the soul of his greatest creative work yet: a transformational book that’s been two decades in the making.
Titled Break Free. Your Life. Your Power. Your Freedom., this isn’t just a book it’s an experience. A journey into the heart of change, courage, and becoming. You’ll meet Johnny Rockstar, a musician on the edge of burnout who begins to uncover the truth of who he really is and in doing so, helps us all do the same.
With storytelling that moves, personal reflection that awakens, and a soundtrack that brings pages to life, John shares the emotional backstory of how the book came to be, the spiritual wisdom of the mysterious “Circle of Seven,” and how this project cracked him open, helped him heal, and will now help others do the same.
Whether you’ve ever asked “Is this all there is?” or felt a quiet whisper calling you to more… this episode is your sign.
This is about freedom. About coming home to yourself. And about joining a movement of people ready to live fully, bravely, and awake.
✨ Join the waitlist and be part of the journey:👉 https://mailchi.mp/johnmerkus.com/break-free-your-life-your-power-your-freedom
🎧 Tune In Now to Be InspiredWhether you're on a walk, driving, or just needing a boost, this conversation is for you. Hit play and rise into your greatness today.
🔥 In This Episode You’ll Discover:
The origin story behind Break Free and why it sat in a drawer for years
Why Johnny Rockstar’s fictional journey mirrors a universal human truth
How the “Circle of Seven” spiritual archetypes can guide your own life
What makes this book unlike anything else on the shelf
Why music, reflection, and personal power are woven into every page
How John used his own breakdowns to fuel a breakthrough
💬 Loved it? Here's What You Can Do Next:
✅ Share this episode with a friend who’s ready to rise⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify📲 Follow John Merkus for more uplifting content💌 Join the mailing list to get exclusive inspiration and free resources
🙏 About Your Host: John MerkusJohn is a passionate speaker, transformation coach, and host of Rise and Thrive, committed to helping you become your best self. His conversations are thoughtful, energising, and always filled with golden nuggets of wisdom. He brings out the best in every guest and this episode is no exception.
🎧 Press play, get inspired, and keep thriving. Greatness is one action away.
💬 Join the Conversation!What’s one insight from this episode that resonated with you?Drop a comment or share your thoughts on social media with:#RiseAndThrive #GreatnessUnlocked #LeadWithHeart
🚀 Hit play now, and let’s rise and thrive together!
✨ Stay Inspired and Keep Thriving ✨
📲 Explore the Fluid Reality Mindset App: www.johnmerkus.com🔗 Follow us and share your favourite moments:🎥 YouTube: @riseandthrivejohn📸 Instagram: @jmerkus👥 Facebook Group: Join here🐦 Twitter: @johnmerkus🎵 Merko Motivation Spotify Playlist: Listen now
📘 💥 Be the first to get the book:👉 https://mailchi.mp/johnmerkus.com/break-free-your-life-your-power-your-freedom
🛡️ Legal StuffBy accessing this Podcast, I acknowledge that the entire contents are the property of John Merkus, or used by John Merkus with permission, and are protected under copyright and trademark laws. No reproduction or reuse without prior written permission. For inquiries, contact john@johnmerkus.com.
This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as legal, medical, or psychological advice.

86:The Mindset Shift Behind Real Transformation

What If You're Not Broken... Just Becoming?
Have you ever felt like something inside you needed fixing?In this powerful continuation of John Merkus’s conversation with transformational coach Jai Thomas, we flip that belief on its head and show you a much greater truth.
This episode is a journey through mindset, confidence, and what it really takes to create lasting change.John and Jai uncover the hidden narratives that shape your life and explore how powerful shifts in language, emotion, and belief can unlock who you truly are.
You’ll walk away feeling lighter, clearer, and more inspired to take your next step.
🔑 Topics Covered in This Episode:
Why you don’t need to be “fixed” to be free
How shame and fear keep us from real growth
The role of language in shaping your identity
Healing old patterns with self-compassion
The turning point when Jai said, “I can’t do this anymore”
Why your story is powerful—but not your truth
John's empowering questions that help shift stuck thinking
How embracing your whole self becomes your superpower
🎧 Tune In Now to Be InspiredWhether you're on a walk, driving, or just needing a boost, this conversation is for you.Hit play and rise into your greatness today.
💬 Loved it? Here's What You Can Do Next:
✅ Share this episode with a friend who’s ready to rise⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify📲 Follow John Merkus for more uplifting content💌 Join the mailing list to get exclusive inspiration and free resources
🙏 About Your Host: John Merkus
John is a passionate speaker, transformation coach, and host of Rise and Thrive, committed to helping you become your best self. His conversations are thoughtful, energising, and always filled with golden nuggets of wisdom. He brings out the best in every guest and this episode is no exception.
🎧 Press play, get inspired, and keep thriving. Greatness is one action away.
💬 Join the Conversation!
What’s one insight from this episode that resonated with you?Drop a comment or share your thoughts on social media using:
#RiseAndThrive #GreatnessUnlocked #LeadWithHeart
✨ Stay Inspired and Keep Thriving ✨
📲 Explore the Fluid Reality Mindset App:www.johnmerkus.com
📌 Follow & Share🎥 YouTube – Rise & Thrive with John📸 Instagram – @jmerkus📘 Facebook Group – Rise and Thrive🐦 Twitter – @johnmerkus🎵 Merko Motivation Playlist
📲 Connect with Jai Thomas:🌐 Website: zohocoaching.au📸 Instagram: @zohocoaching
📚 Legal Stuff
By accessing this Podcast, I acknowledge that the entire contents are the property of John Merkus, or used by John Merkus with permission, and are protected under copyright and trademark laws. Except as otherwise provided herein, users may save and use information for personal or educational purposes. No reproduction or editing may be made without prior written permission, which may be requested by contacting john@johnmerkus.com.
This podcast is for educational purposes only. The host claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly by the use or interpretation of the information presented herein.

85:Unlock Hidden Power for Positive Change with Jai Thomas

🎙️ Unlock Hidden Power for Positive Change with Jai ThomasRise and Thrive: Conversations for Greatness
✨ What if the real reason you're stuck… isn’t what you think?
In this inspiring and thought-provoking episode, John Merkus welcomes mindset expert and Zoho Coaching founder Jai Thomas to reveal the hidden forces shaping your life and how to break free.
From understanding your ‘shadow values’ to learning why your reactions not your circumstances determine your happiness, Jai shares practical strategies to unlock your hidden power and create the life you deserve.
💡 Whether you’re feeling stuck or simply ready for your next level, this episode is packed with golden insights to shift your thinking and inspire action.
🎧 Tune In Now to Be InspiredWhether you're walking, driving, or needing a boost, this conversation is for you.Hit play and rise into your greatness today!
🔥 Episode Highlights:
✔️ Why your reactions—not your circumstances—shape your life✔️ The surprising power of shadow values✔️ How to identify the hidden drivers behind your habits✔️ Jai’s AAA Process: a practical method for emotional healing and mindset shifts✔️ How childhood beliefs still shape your adult life✔️ Why people stay stuck—and how to shift today
👤 Meet Today’s Guest: Jai ThomasFounder of Zoho Coaching and a master of mindset transformation, Jai has spent over 15 years helping individuals and organisations unlock their potential and create lasting change. His work focuses on aligning thoughts, emotions, and actions to help people achieve success on their own terms.
🌐 Connect with Jai:🔗 Website📸 Instagram
💬 Loved It? Here’s What You Can Do Next:
✅ Share this episode with a friend who’s ready to rise⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify📲 Follow John Merkus for more uplifting content💌 Join the mailing list for exclusive inspiration and free resources
🙏 About Your Host: John MerkusJohn is a passionate speaker, transformation coach, and host of Rise and Thrive, committed to helping you become your best self. His conversations are thoughtful, energising, and always packed with wisdom.He brings out the best in every guest—and this episode is no exception.
🎧 Press Play, Get Inspired, and Keep Thriving.Greatness is one action away.
💬 Join the Conversation!What’s one insight from this episode that resonated with you?Share your thoughts using#RiseAndThrive #GreatnessUnlocked #LeadWithHeart
🚀 Ready to Rise? Follow and Explore:
🌐 Fluid Reality Mindset App
🔗 Stay Connected:🎥 YouTube📸 Instagram👥 Facebook Group🐦 Twitter
🎵 Motivation Playlist:Merko Motivation on Spotify
📜 Legal StuffBy accessing this Podcast, I acknowledge that the entire contents are the property of John Merkus, or used by John Merkus with permission, and are protected under U.S. and international copyright and trademark laws. Except as otherwise provided herein, users of this Podcast may save and use information contained in the Podcast only for personal or other non-commercial, educational purposes. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission or editing, of this Podcast may be made without the prior written permission of John Merkus, which may be requested by contacting john@johnmerkus.com.
This podcast is for educational purposes only. The host claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein.
🎧 Press play, get inspired, and let’s rise and thrive together. ✨

84:The Success System You’ve Never Tried

The Success System You’ve Never Tried 🚀
What if there was a proven, science-backed system to transform your health, wealth, and relationships—without relying on willpower alone?
In this powerful episode of Rise and Thrive, John Merkus welcomes back John Mitchell, who reveals how a 12-minute daily practice can rewire your subconscious, break autopilot patterns, and help you live with clarity and intention.
If you’ve ever felt stuck or frustrated that you know what to do but don’t do it, this conversation will show you how to turn knowing into consistent action so you can rise into your greatness.
🎧 Tune In Now to Be InspiredWhether you're on a walk, driving, or just needing a boost, this conversation is for you. Hit play and rise into your greatness today.
🌟 What You’ll Discover:
✅ Why 95% of your daily actions are subconscious—and how to take control✅ The single word change that transformed John Mitchell’s health habits✅ How to shift from willpower to automatic high-performance behaviours✅ Using clarity, deep thinking, and systems to level up your business✅ Why most people live reactively and the simple fix to stop winging it✅ Practical steps to live your potential, daily
John Mitchell’s personal stories and clear, actionable explanations make these tools relatable and practical, and host John Merkus guides the conversation with warmth, curiosity, and energy, bringing out actionable wisdom for every listener.
If you’re ready to create momentum in your life with a system that works, this episode will show you the path.
💬 Loved it? Here’s What You Can Do Next:
✅ Share this episode with a friend who’s ready to rise⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify📲 Follow John Merkus for more uplifting content💌 Join the mailing list to get exclusive inspiration and free resources
🙏 About Your Host: John Merkus
John is a passionate speaker, transformation coach, and host of Rise and Thrive, committed to helping you become your best self. His conversations are thoughtful, energising, and always filled with golden nuggets of wisdom. He brings out the best in every guest and this episode is no exception.
🎧 Press play, get inspired, and keep thriving. Greatness is one action away.
💬 Join the Conversation!What’s one insight from this episode that resonated with you? Drop a comment or share your thoughts on social media with #RiseAndThrive #GreatnessUnlocked #LeadWithHeart.
🚀 Hit play now, and let’s rise and thrive together!
✨ Stay Inspired and Keep Thriving ✨
📲 Resources & Links
🌐 Explore the Fluid Reality Mindset App: www.johnmerkus.com🌐 Learn more about John Mitchell’s work: www.themissingsecret.org
🔗 Follow us and share your favourite moments:YouTubeInstagramFacebook CommunityTwitter
🎶 Fuel your day with the Merko Motivation Spotify playlist: Listen Here
Legal
By accessing this Podcast, I acknowledge that the entire contents are the property of John Merkus, or used by John Merkus with permission, and are protected under U.S. and international copyright and trademark laws. Except as otherwise provided herein, users of this Podcast may save and use information contained in the Podcast only for personal or other non-commercial, educational purposes. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission or editing, of this Podcast may be made without the prior written permission of John Merkus, which may be requested by contacting john@johnmerkus.com.
This podcast is for educational purposes only. The host claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein.

83:The Secret Napoleon Hill Didn’t Tell You (And How to Use It)

🎙️ The Secret Napoleon Hill Didn’t Tell You (And How to Use It)
Ever felt like you’re capable of so much more but just can’t seem to break through? You’re not alone—and today’s episode might be exactly what you need to change everything.
In this inspiring conversation, host John Merkus sits down with John Mitchell, the man who discovered the missing secret inside Think and Grow Rich and turned it into a simple 12-minute daily practice that helped him multiply his income 25 times. This isn’t about hype it’s about how clear intention, daily repetition, and understanding your mind can transform your business, health, and life.
John shares his personal journey from “doing okay” to living with purpose, teaching at the University of Texas, and helping top performers install high-performance habits that stick. You’ll discover why winging it is the biggest trap, what’s really stopping you from reaching your potential, and how to shift from fear-based autopilot to conscious action that builds the life you want.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re here to live a bigger, more meaningful life this is your sign to hit play.
🎧 Tune In Now to Be InspiredWhether you're on a walk, driving, or just needing a boost, this conversation is for you. Hit play and rise into your greatness today.
💡 In This Episode:
✨ The hidden secret Napoleon Hill left out of Think and Grow Rich✨ Why your subconscious mind holds the key to your success✨ How a 12-minute practice can transform your income, health, and relationships✨ The danger of “winging it” and what to do instead✨ Simple mindset shifts to move from fear to focused action✨ Why John Merkus believes clarity and repetition are the superpowers of high achievers
💬 Loved it? Here’s What You Can Do Next:✅ Share this episode with a friend who’s ready to rise⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify📲 Follow John Merkus for more uplifting content💌 Join the mailing list to get exclusive inspiration and free resources
🙏 About Your Host: John MerkusJohn is a passionate speaker, transformation coach, and host of Rise and Thrive, committed to helping you become your best self. His conversations are thoughtful, energising, and always filled with golden nuggets of wisdom. He brings out the best in every guest—and this episode is no exception.
🎧 Press play, get inspired, and keep thriving. Greatness is one action away.
💬 Join the Conversation!What’s one insight from this episode that resonated with you? Drop a comment or share your thoughts on social media with #RiseAndThrive #GreatnessUnlocked #LeadWithHeart
🚀 Hit play now, and let’s rise and thrive together!✨ Stay Inspired and Keep Thriving ✨
📲 Explore Fluid Reality Mindset App: www.johnmerkus.com
📲 Learn More from John Mitchell: www.themissingsecret.org
🔗 Follow and Share Your Favourite Moments:YouTubeInstagramFacebook CommunityTwitterWebsite🎶 Merko Motivation Playlist
⚖️ Legal Stuff
By accessing this Podcast, I acknowledge that the entire contents are the property of John Merkus, or used by John Merkus with permission, and are protected under U.S. and international copyright and trademark laws. Except as otherwise provided herein, users of this Podcast may save and use information contained in the Podcast only for personal or other non-commercial, educational purposes. No other use, including, without limitation, reproduction, retransmission or editing, of this Podcast may be made without the prior written permission of the John Merkus, which may be requested by contacting john@johnmerkus.com.
This podcast is for educational purposes only. The host claims no responsibility to any person or entity for any liability, loss, or damage caused or alleged to be caused directly or indirectly as a result of the use, application, or interpretation of the information presented herein.