Shows
What's on Your Bookshelf?121-The Obstacle Is The Way: Part 3-Episode 1; Building Your Inner Citadel: The Discipline of Will in Turbulent TimesWe delve into the final section of Ryan Holiday's "The Obstacle is the Way," exploring how will—the discipline of the heart and soul—creates an inner fortress that no external adversity can break.• Will represents quiet humility, resilience, and flexibility rather than forceful determination• Abraham Lincoln's depression became his strength, teaching him to lead with dignity during America's Civil War• The "inner citadel" concept describes the core part of ourselves that remains untouchable by external circumstances• Building self-confidence and resilience requires facing obstacles rather than avoiding them• Theodore Roosevelt overcame severe asthma through discip...
2025-06-1132 minWhat's on Your Bookshelf?120-The Obstacle Is The Way: Part 2-Episode 6; Seize the Offensive and Prepare for None of it to WorkDenise and Sam explore the "Action" section of Ryan Holiday's book "The Obstacle is the Way," focusing on how to seize opportunities in crisis and transform obstacles into advantages.• The Japanese art of Kintsugi illuminates how broken pottery repaired with gold becomes more valuable than before• Taking swift action when opportunities arise separates successful people from those who merely dream• Preparation must happen before opportunities present themselves - when the moment comes, it's too late to prepare• Crises provide unique opportunities to implement changes that would be impossible during normal times• Leaders who guide team...
2025-06-0433 minWhat's on Your Bookshelf?119-The Obstacle Is The Way: Part 2-Episode 5; Turning Trials into Triumph: How Your Obstacles Become OpportunitiesSam and Denise explore how to transform obstacles into opportunities by approaching challenges with strategic patience and focused energy rather than immediate reaction.• Using obstacles against themselves requires stepping back and allowing some problems to "fizzle out" on their own• Non-action can be a powerful form of action when dealing with emotional situations or seemingly immovable obstacles• Channeling frustration into focused energy creates more sustainable results than emotional reactions• The "long game" approach often outperforms immediate gratification in both sports and business settings• Humility is essential when facing obstacles—sometimes admitting the original path isn't w...
2025-05-2833 minWhat's on Your Bookshelf?118-The Obstacle Is The Way: Part 2, Episode 4; Whats Right, What WorksWe explore two key chapters from Ryan Holiday's "The Obstacle is the Way" about taking action when faced with obstacles through creative problem-solving and finding alternative paths forward.• Discussing how "what's right is what works" encourages flexible, goal-oriented thinking over rigid adherence to conventional methods• Exploring Marcus Aurelius's simple wisdom: "The cucumber is bitter? Then throw it out" as a guide to avoiding unnecessary complications• Sharing real-life examples of finding creative solutions to roadblocks, including Denise's Disney trip detour story• Examining the concept of the "flank attack" - approaching problems from unexpected angles rather than hea...
2025-05-2132 minWhat's on Your Bookshelf?115 - The Obstacle Is The Way, PerspectiveIt always starts with a moment. A moment when everything feels impossible.For Denise, it was standing at the crossroads of a career shift, staring down uncertainty like an opponent in the ring. For Sam, it was watching someone she believed in struggle—not because they lacked talent, but because they couldn’t see their own path forward.What makes the difference in those moments? It isn’t strength. It isn’t luck. It’s perspective.In this episode, Sam and Denise dive into Part One of The Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holid...
2025-04-2328 minWhat's on Your Bookshelf?112 - The Obstacle Is The Way: Objectivity, Turning Obstacles into OpportunitiesDenise and Sam explore how practicing objectivity can transform our approach to life's obstacles, drawing wisdom from Ryan Holiday's bestseller "The Obstacle is the Way."• Distinguishing between perception (emotional reactions) and observation (factual reality)• Our first thoughts come from programming and defaults, but our second thoughts define who we are• Reacting immediately to first impressions can cause us to miss valuable opportunities and connections• Diversity of thought helps us see beyond our limited perspectives• Where the head goes, the body follows - perception precedes action• Taking yourself out of the equation often reveals solu...
2025-04-1635 minWhat's on Your Bookshelf?111 - The Obstacle is the Way: Steady your NervesDenise and Sam explore the concept of perception in Ryan Holiday's "The Obstacle is the Way," focusing on how steadying our nerves and controlling our emotions can transform obstacles into opportunities.• Perception shapes our response to challenges and determines whether obstacles block us or become the way forward• Public speaking anxiety as a common example of needing to steady your nerves in high-pressure situations• The importance of being "the adult in the room" when facing workplace or personal challenges• Controlling emotions doesn't mean suppressing them—it means creating space between feeling and response• NASA astrona...
2025-04-0929 minWhat's on Your Bookshelf?001 - What's On Your Bookshelf (Exclusive Series): Extreme Ownership IntroDiscover the transformative power of military leadership principles in our exclusive new series featuring Denise Russo and special co-host Zach Elliott. This debut episode introduces a fresh perspective on leadership through the lens of military experience, specifically exploring how the disciplined, accountable leadership style of elite military units translates to business success.The conversation centers on the groundbreaking book "Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win" by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin. Together, Denise and Zach unpack why military leadership resonates so powerfully in corporate spaces – from the unwavering focus and accountability instilled in mi...
2025-04-0430 minWhat's on Your Bookshelf?110 - The Obstacle Is The Way: Mastering PerceptionIt starts with a storm. The year is 1857, and the economy is collapsing. Panic spreads like wildfire. Investors crumble. Businesses fail. But a young man named John D. Rockefeller doesn’t flinch. He watches. He studies. And while others see disaster, he sees an opening.That’s the power of perception.In this episode, Denise and Sam step inside The Obstacle Is The Way by Ryan Holiday, pulling real stories from history and personal experience to explore a truth that separates those who falter from those who rise: what we see—and how we choose...
2025-04-0226 minWhat's on Your Bookshelf?108 - The Obstacle Is The Way: Transforming Trials into TriumphsDenise was stuck. Sam was frustrated. Different stories, same feeling—an obstacle so big it seemed impossible to move. But what if the struggle wasn’t a dead end? What if it was the path forward?In this episode, Denise and Sam dive into The Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holiday, exploring its powerful lessons through personal stories and the experiences of those who have turned setbacks into success.You’ll meet a leader who faced disaster but found a way through, a dreamer whose failure became fuel, and the historical figures who proved that o...
2025-03-1926 minWhat's on Your Bookshelf?109 - Extreme Ownership Chapter 5 - Cover and MoveEver wondered why some teams thrive while others struggle? Discover the keys to unlocking team success as Denise Russo and Zach Elliott unpack the military tactic of "Cover and Move" from "Extreme Ownership," transforming it into actionable strategies for the corporate world. Learn from the challenges faced by the Arizona Suns NBA team and their former coach, Frank Vogel, as they struggled to cultivate a cohesive culture. Delve into why intervention from higher leadership is crucial in steering team dynamics and chemistry towards success. Find out how the synergy of effective communication and shared purpose can propel y...
2025-03-1226 minWhat's on Your Bookshelf?108 - Extreme Ownership IntroductionWhat if the secrets to effective corporate leadership could be found in the discipline and ethos of military strategy? Join hosts Denise Russo and Zach Elliott as we promise a transformative journey through leadership principles that bridge the gap between military rigor and corporate success. With insights drawn from the compelling work "Extreme Ownership" by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin, this episode guarantees listeners a new perspective on the power of accountability and ownership in fostering trustworthy and resilient teams.Hear firsthand how military-themed literature, spanning the experiences of Navy SEALs and Delta Force operatives, offers lessons...
2025-03-0530 minWhat's on Your Bookshelf?105 - Five Bold Choices: Rise above Your Circumstances and Redefine Your Life - Chapter 4: ConfidenceHave you ever wondered if your perception of confidence is truly aligned with reality? Join us as we unravel the intricacies of confidence, perspective, and humility in this engaging episode of "What's on Your Bookshelf." We draw inspiration from "The Five Bold Choices" by Jay Coughlin and Larry Julian, focusing on the fourth bold choice: redefining confidence. Through a tapestry of personal stories and memorable anecdotes, including a charming video of a confident little girl, we explore how our views on confidence evolve from childhood into adulthood.Our discussion takes a deep dive into the subjective nature...
2025-02-1230 minWhat's on Your Bookshelf?101 - Five Bold Choices: Rise above Your Circumstances and Redefine Your Life - IntroductionWhat if the choices you make today could transform your tomorrow? "The Five Bold Choices" by Jay Coughlin and Larry Julian, a book that challenges us to rise above life's circumstances and redefine our paths. As we weave through the practical advice and personal anecdotes shared by these compelling authors, we discover how strategic decisions can lead to untapped potential and impactful change. From Denise's resilience in the face of a devastating flood to Jay's journey of finding purpose after a life-altering car accident, we share stories that exemplify the power of bold choices in overcoming obstacles....
2025-01-1531 minWhat's on Your Bookshelf?99 - What's on Your Bookshelf 2025 KickoffEver wondered how a small conversation about books turned into an engaging podcast series? Denise Russo and Sam Powell take you through their inspiring journey from a casual chat around Denise's bookshelf to creating "What's on Your Bookshelf," a podcast that explores themes woven through literature and life. As we kick off 2025, we reminisce about our evolution, including the delightful story of Denise’s son, Vincent, who secretly listened to past episodes, borrowing books to fuel his own growth. We're excited at the prospect of having Vincent join us in future discussions, bringing fresh insights to our literary explorations.
2025-01-0125 minWhat's on Your Bookshelf?97 - Intentional Living - At a Time That Makes a DifferenceHave you ever wondered if true happiness lies not in avoiding challenges but in facing them intentionally and with an open heart? As we wrap up our year-long quest for happiness, Denise Russo and Samantha Powell share the transformative lessons they've gleaned from pivotal books like "The How of Happiness" and "The Happiness Project." This episode dives deep into the shift from chasing success to finding true significance, focusing on daily moments of joy, peace, and meaningful relationships. Samantha also discusses her rewarding experiences in career coaching, emphasizing the real impact of transforming mindsets and boosting self-esteem.Join...
2024-12-1928 minWhat's on Your Bookshelf?96 - Intentional Living - Partner with Like-Valued PeopleHave you ever wondered how living with anticipation and urgency can transform your life? This week, Denise Russo and Samantha Powell unpack another section of John Maxwell's "Intentional Living." We delve into how forward-thinking and timely action can make a huge difference. With insights from John Wooden’s timeless wisdom, we discuss how to prepare yourself for those golden opportunities when they appear. You'll learn the secrets to proactive, intentional living, ensuring that you're always ready to seize the moment.Imagine starting each day with a mindset geared towards success and balance. We'll explore how positive anticipation ca...
2024-12-1832 minWhat's on Your Bookshelf?95 - Intentional Living - With People Who Make a DifferenceEver wondered how connecting with diverse minds can transform your life? Join us, Denise Russo and Samantha Powell, as we explore John Maxwell's "Intentional Living" and uncover the magic of building relationships with like-minded individuals while embracing diverse perspectives. We'll share personal stories that highlight how engaging with people who challenge our viewpoints can spur significant growth and enrich our lives. Discover the value of a cohesive team when striving for monumental goals, and how collective trust and collaboration can make our dreams more achievable and meaningful.Next, we dive into the challenges and rewards of forming...
2024-12-1730 minWhat's on Your Bookshelf?94 - Intentional Living - Doing Something That Makes a DifferenceHave you ever wondered how a simple act of gratitude can transform your relationships? Join Denise Russo and Samantha Powell as they share powerful personal stories and discuss intentional living inspired by John Maxwell's "Intentional Living." Denise unveils the touching experience of writing heartfelt letters to her children, emphasizing how acknowledging the contributions of others brings profound changes. Samantha highlights the concept of "bids for connection," a term coined by the Gottman Institute, and how responding to these bids can deepen our relationships and enrich our lives.Imagine the impact of being fully present in our fast-paced...
2024-12-1632 minWhat's on Your Bookshelf?92 - Intentional Living - Why Good Intentions Aren’t EnoughWhat if a simple shift in your daily choices could lead to a life of lasting significance? Join Denise Russo and Sam Powell as they unpack John Maxwell's "Intentional Living," a game-changing book that wraps up our 2024 reading list. Drawing from our recent retreat, "Your Signature Story," we explore how conscious awareness of one's passions, potential, and purpose can ignite profound life changes. We outline Maxwell's four-step formula for making a difference and emphasize the importance of taking intentional actions to shape your future. We redefine significance, inspired by a grandmother's sage advice—"just do what your han...
2024-12-1230 minWhat's on Your Bookshelf?91 - The Happiness Project - AfterwardUnlock the secrets to a happier, more intentional life as we wrap up our journey through Gretchen Rubin's "The Happiness Project." Get ready to discover the transformative power of personalized resolutions and practical tips from Rubin's afterword, all while learning how to craft your own happiness project. We'll showcase how concepts from "Atomic Habits" complement Rubin's insights, offering you a flexible framework to kickstart your path to joy and fulfillment.Ever wonder how having a coach or accountability partner can amplify your personal growth? We'll share our experiences with reading and teaching Rubin's book and highlight the...
2024-12-1127 minWhat's on Your Bookshelf?88 - The Happiness Project - OctoberCan embracing mindfulness truly impact our daily lives and transform our perspectives? Join us on "What's on Your Bookshelf" as we engage in an insightful conversation about mindfulness, inspired by Gretchen Rubin's "The Happiness Project." This episode features reflections from Denise Rousseau and Sam Powell, who contemplate the significance of being present, particularly during the reflective autumn season. Denise shares a heartfelt story of celebrating her father's 80th birthday, reminding us of the importance of creating and cherishing meaningful moments. Meanwhile, Sam offers his own experiences of navigating new life phases with purpose and attention.Shift your mindset...
2024-11-1334 minWhat's on Your Bookshelf?87 - The Happiness Project - SeptemberEver struggled to find time for your true passions amidst the chaos of daily life? This episode of "What's on Your Bookshelf" promises to enlighten and inspire you as Denise Russo and Samantha Powell explore the transformative power of pursuing your passions. Drawing inspiration from Chapter Nine of Gretchen Rubin's "The Happiness Project," they dive deep into how dedicating time to activities we love can bring immense joy and fulfillment. Denise shares why September is her favorite month for personal development, emphasizing how Rubin’s methods of recognizing and integrating passions into everyday life have resonated deeply with her.
2024-11-0631 minWhat's on Your Bookshelf?84 - The Happiness Project - JuneHave you ever wondered how friendships can profoundly impact your happiness? Join us on "What's on Your Bookshelf" as Denise Russo and Samantha Powell explore the timeless value of friendship, inspired by Chapter 6, "June," from Gretchen Rubin's "The Happiness Project." We'll share heartwarming personal stories, like Denise's joyful reunion with her lifelong friend Sandy, and discuss practical ways to nurture these invaluable relationships. From remembering birthdays to staying in touch, we emphasize the simple yet meaningful actions that fortify our social bonds.We'll also dive into the broader concept of generosity, moving beyond financial contributions to uplifting and...
2024-10-1632 minWhat's on Your Bookshelf?83 - The Happiness Project - MayEver wonder why your childhood hobbies brought you so much joy, but as adults, we often struggle to find that same happiness? Join Denise Russo and Samantha Powell on this week's episode of "What's on Your Bookshelf" as we unlock the secrets to integrating play and leisure into our busy lives. Inspired by Gretchen Rubin's "The Happiness Project," we reveal actionable steps for mid-career women, particularly millennials, to intentionally carve out time for those activities that truly make us happy.As we discuss the complexities of people management, we also look at how to maintain our well-being...
2024-10-0931 min