In this episode of Living Undeterred, Jeff Johnston sits down with Ben Trotter—a Gen Z voice with a passion for mental health and personal development—for a raw, wide-ranging conversation about what it means to pursue mental wellness in a digital age.
Ben shares his journey from studying finance at the University of Iowa to becoming a key voice on the Brightn Thriver Council, advocating for practical mental health solutions designed for his generation. Together, Jeff and Ben explore the powerful intersection of discipline, technology, and mindset—examining both the promise and the peril of growing up online.
Key Themes Discussed:
Why Gen Z needs intentional digital tools—not just access to information
The paradox of motivation vs. discipline in building mental strength
Cold plunging and other physical habits as metaphors for mental resilience
The dangers of dopamine-driven social media use and algorithmic rabbit holes
How AI can both enable and erode mental clarity
Daily wins, non-negotiables, and gratitude as anchors in personal growth
What it means to live your mission—one season at a time
Ben also opens up about his faith, journaling practices, and book recommendations that shaped his mindset—including Atomic Habits, How to Win Friends & Influence People, and The Magic of Thinking Big.
This conversation isn’t just for Gen Z—it’s for anyone who’s ready to stop chasing happiness and start building sustainable, meaningful wellness.
🎧 Listen in for a grounded, honest look at what it means to live undeterred in a distracted world.
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