The Art and Science of Thriving

Michael Schiel
  • 0.0 (0)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to The Art and Science of Thriving, the podcast where high-achieving professionals unlock the secrets to living a fulfilling, balanced, and high-performing life. Through evidence-based insights in neuroscience, psychology, and high-performance strategies, we’ll explore how to achieve success without burnout, create clarity and purpose, and thrive in every area of your life.Michael Schiel, a high performance coach and transformation consultant, hosts the podcast. Michael helps overwhelmed people and teams find their purpose, achieve their goals, and reach peak performance while creating well-being, balance and fulfillment in their lives 

  1. 30 JAN

    Episode #94: How to Regain Control, Reduce Overwhelm, and Perform at Your Best Without Burning Out

    Do you ever feel like you’re working hard all day, yet still ending the day exhausted, behind, and wondering where your time and energy went? In this episode of The Art and Science of Thriving, I answer one of the most important questions high-achieving professionals face:  How do I regain control, reduce overwhelm, and perform at my best — without burning out? I explain why overwhelm isn’t a personal failure or lack of discipline, but a performance state that happens when demand exceeds your brain’s capacity, stress stays elevated, and you lose a sense of control. When this happens, focus narrows, decision quality drops, and even simple tasks start to feel heavy. From there, I introduce the Thrive Model — a science-based framework built on five interconnected pillars: well-being, purpose, high performance, growth, and connection. Instead of trying to fix overwhelm with more effort or better willpower, I show you how to change the system you’re operating in so your brain, energy, and motivation start working with you again. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why pushing harder and “gritting it out” often makes overwhelm worseThe neuroscience behind why you feel scattered, reactive, and drained under pressureThe three key shifts that restore control: regulation before optimization, capacity before productivity, and agency before executionHow each pillar of the Thrive Model reduces overwhelm and builds sustainable high performanceA simple, practical way to start applying the model right away — even if you feel like you have no timeIf you’re tired of just getting through your days and want to feel clear, capable, and in control again, this episode will help you understand what’s really happening in your brain — and what to do about it. For a summary of the Thrive Model and a self-check to help you apply it in your own life, visit Invictus.coach/resources. Instantly Unlock Performance, Well-Being and Balance Now The "Thrive Hive" is a monthly membership to help teach, coach and support individuals, organizational teams and their leaders in reaching their full potential, and living a flourishing life with balance and well-being. You get access to group coaching, monthly education, webinars/livecasts and other events, topic-based support and tools, and access to a private community of other like-minded individuals. You can find out more or sign up clicking here!

    38 min
  2. Episode #93: Performing at Your Best Under Pressure and Stress

    2 JAN

    Episode #93: Performing at Your Best Under Pressure and Stress

    In this episode, I explore what actually happens in the brain and nervous system under pressure—and why even highly capable people often struggle to think clearly, make good decisions, or perform at their best when it matters most. Drawing on evidence-based neuroscience, psychology, and high-performance research, this episode explains: Why pressure narrows attention and degrades thinkingWhy “just trying harder” often makes performance worseWhy capable people choke under pressure—and why that’s not a flawHow elite performers (athletes, ER doctors, Navy SEALs, and others) design for pressure instead of fighting itWhat actually helps you perform well under sustained demandYou’ll learn the core principles that support high performance under pressure, including: How to simplify and reduce cognitive loadWhy routines protect focus and consistencyHow regulating your physiological state improves thinkingThe difference between interpreting pressure as a threat versus a challengeHow to apply these ideas in real life, not just in theoryThis episode also acknowledges that pressure can affect people differently, including neurodivergent individuals and menopausal women, and explains why systems and structure matter more than willpower. If you’re feeling stretched, reactive, or mentally overloaded—and want to perform well without burning out—this episode will give you a clear, science-based framework and practical next steps. Instantly Unlock Performance, Well-Being and Balance Now The "Thrive Hive" is a monthly membership to help teach, coach and support individuals, organizational teams and their leaders in reaching their full potential, and living a flourishing life with balance and well-being. You get access to group coaching, monthly education, webinars/livecasts and other events, topic-based support and tools, and access to a private community of other like-minded individuals. You can find out more or sign up clicking here!

    38 min
  3. Episode #92: Michael's Version: How to Plan Your Best Year without Burning Out

    29/11/2025

    Episode #92: Michael's Version: How to Plan Your Best Year without Burning Out

    If you’re thinking ahead to the new year and want to start strong without slipping into the usual overwhelm, this episode will help you do exactly that. This is Michael’s Version of one of the most downloaded episodes I’ve ever released — a refreshed, clearer, more aligned re-recording of “How to Plan Your Best Year.”  Much like Taylor Swift re-recording her albums, this is the episode I always wanted to release: still built on the same evidence-based principles as the original, but now sharper, more grounded, and easier to apply. In this episode, I walk you through a science-backed approach to planning your year that avoids the biggest traps most people fall into.  We explore why long-term motivation often collapses after the initial excitement, and how to design your goals in a way that your brain can sustain over time. You’ll learn: Why only about 10% of New Year’s goals make it past FebruaryThe six evidence-based principles that create a meaningful, achievable yearHow to define what “your best year” actually means (without unrealistic pressure)A simple, powerful 4-step protocol for planning your yearThe most common planning mistakes — and how to avoid themFour success strategies to keep your goals achievable, energizing, and realisticWhether you’re looking to make progress on a few important goals or you simply want a more sustainable approach to planning the year ahead, this episode will help you clarify what matters, set achievable targets, and create momentum that lasts. Resources Mentioned: Register for my December workshop: How to Plan Your 2026 Goals Without BurnoutJoin the Thrive Hive for monthly support, tools, and coachingInstantly Unlock Performance, Well-Being and Balance Now The "Thrive Hive" is a monthly membership to help teach, coach and support individuals, organizational teams and their leaders in reaching their full potential, and living a flourishing life with balance and well-being. You get access to group coaching, monthly education, webinars/livecasts and other events, topic-based support and tools, and access to a private community of other like-minded individuals. You can find out more or sign up clicking here!

    35 min

  4. 14/11/2025

    Episode #91 — Finish Strong: The Deeper Science of Reflection and the R.E.S.E.T. Model

    As the year comes to an end, many people jump straight into planning their goals for the next one. But the real power — the kind that fuels motivation, clarity, and fulfillment — comes from looking back first. In this episode, High Performance Coach Michael Schiel breaks down the deeper science of reflection and introduces the R.E.S.E.T. Model, a structured, evidence-based framework designed to help you extract meaning from your year, realign with what matters most, and enter the next chapter with confidence and direction. You’ll learn: Why reflection changes the brain and boosts long-term motivationThe key neuroscience and psychology principles behind effective self-reviewHow to use the R.E.S.E.T. Framework to review your year:Reflect on what workedExamine challenges with curiositySeek the lessonsEvaluate alignment with your values and identityTransition forward with clarityMichael also shares how to turn RESET into a powerful habit through weekly, monthly, and quarterly reflection cycles — helping you stay aligned, energized, and focused throughout the year. Whether you’re closing out a successful year or navigating one that felt messy and overwhelming, this episode gives you the tools to finish strong and step into the new year with purpose and momentum. Download the RESET Worksheet: You can download the worksheet I talk about, and apply what you learn at invictus.coach/resources Join the free livecast on Wednesday, November 19th: On Wednesday, November 19th, I am hosting a free livecast on this topic. I will introduce the concept and walk through the framework. You will have a chance to learn firsthand about it, and ask questions. Click here to learn more and register for free This is your roadmap to clarity, confidence, and thriving in the year ahead. Instantly Unlock Performance, Well-Being and Balance Now The "Thrive Hive" is a monthly membership to help teach, coach and support individuals, organizational teams and their leaders in reaching their full potential, and living a flourishing life with balance and well-being. You get access to group coaching, monthly education, webinars/livecasts and other events, topic-based support and tools, and access to a private community of other like-minded individuals. You can find out more or sign up clicking here!

    26 min
  5. Episode #90: The Science of Reflection: How to Review Your Year and Find What Really Mattered

    06/11/2025

    Episode #90: The Science of Reflection: How to Review Your Year and Find What Really Mattered

    Have you ever reached the end of the year and felt… underwhelmed? You worked hard, hit some goals, and overcame challenges—but still wonder, Did any of this really matter? In this episode of The Art and Science of Thriving, I explore the neuroscience and psychology behind why achievement alone rarely feels fulfilling—and how meaningful reflection is the key to ending your year with clarity, confidence, and a genuine sense of progress. You’ll learn: Why your brain’s dopamine system is wired for the chase, not the finish, and how that affects your sense of success.The neuroscience of reflection—how it consolidates learning, strengthens resilience, and turns experiences into wisdom.Five science-backed principles for reviewing your year so you feel proud, grounded, and ready for what’s next.The R.E.S.E.T. Reflection Framework — a simple, evidence-based process to reflect, realign, and refocus for the year ahead.Plus, I share practical reflection tools you can use this week— like the “Year-in-Three” list and closure rituals—to help you end the year not just successful, but fulfilled. Instantly Unlock Performance, Well-Being and Balance Now The "Thrive Hive" is a monthly membership to help teach, coach and support individuals, organizational teams and their leaders in reaching their full potential, and living a flourishing life with balance and well-being. You get access to group coaching, monthly education, webinars/livecasts and other events, topic-based support and tools, and access to a private community of other like-minded individuals. You can find out more or sign up clicking here!

    31 min
  6. Episode #89: Imposter Syndrome: The Science Behind It and How to Beat It

    03/10/2025

    Episode #89: Imposter Syndrome: The Science Behind It and How to Beat It

    Do you ever catch yourself thinking, “I don’t belong here… I’m not good enough… Sooner or later, they’ll find out I’m a fraud”? If so, you’re not alone. In fact, research shows that most high-achieving professionals experience imposter syndrome at some point in their careers In this episode of The Art and Science of Thriving, I dive into the science behind imposter syndrome — what it really is, why it shows up most often when we’re growing, and how you can use neuroscience and psychology-backed tools to reframe those thoughts so they no longer hold you back. You’ll learn: Why imposter syndrome happens and how your brain is wired to trigger these thoughts in moments of growth.The identity gap — why your achievements often feel out of sync with how you see yourself.Practical, science-backed strategies to reframe self-doubt into confidence and contribution.How leaders can spot imposter syndrome in their teams — and simple steps to help staff turn it into fuel for growth.Most importantly, you’ll walk away with a proven framework — Awareness, Reframing, and Action — that helps you move past the inner critic and channel imposter feelings into motivation and thriving. 🎯 Free Resource: To help you apply the tools from this episode, I’ve created a downloadable Imposter Syndrome Worksheet & Mini Guide. Get your copy at invictus.coach/resources If you’ve ever wrestled with self-doubt — or want to support your team through it — this episode will show you how to recognize imposter syndrome for what it is: not proof you don’t belong, but proof that you’re stretching into growth. Instantly Unlock Performance, Well-Being and Balance Now The "Thrive Hive" is a monthly membership to help teach, coach and support individuals, organizational teams and their leaders in reaching their full potential, and living a flourishing life with balance and well-being. You get access to group coaching, monthly education, webinars/livecasts and other events, topic-based support and tools, and access to a private community of other like-minded individuals. You can find out more or sign up clicking here!

    32 min
  7. Episode #88: The Fulfillment Formula — How to End Your Day Feeling Like It Mattered

    29/08/2025

    Episode #88: The Fulfillment Formula — How to End Your Day Feeling Like It Mattered

    Have you ever ended the day exhausted, yet still felt like you didn’t make progress? You were busy, crossed things off your list, yet something was missing? You’re not alone. In this episode of The Art and Science of Thriving, I break down why productivity doesn’t always equal fulfillment — and what neuroscience and psychology say actually makes a day feel meaningful. You’ll discover: Why your brain fixates on unfinished tasks (the Zeigarnik Effect)The neuroscience behind why checking things off isn’t enoughA simple, science-backed Fulfillment Formula to help you end your day with clarity and satisfaction.By the end, you’ll have practical tools you can use tonight to feel more present, purposeful, and fulfilled — even on messy, busy days. Instantly Unlock Performance, Well-Being and Balance Now The "Thrive Hive" is a monthly membership to help teach, coach and support individuals, organizational teams and their leaders in reaching their full potential, and living a flourishing life with balance and well-being. You get access to group coaching, monthly education, webinars/livecasts and other events, topic-based support and tools, and access to a private community of other like-minded individuals. You can find out more or sign up clicking here!

    24 min
  8. Episode #87: The Post-Vacation Reset: How to Return without Losing Energy, Calm or Focus

    18/08/2025

    Episode #87: The Post-Vacation Reset: How to Return without Losing Energy, Calm or Focus

    You’ve just had a great break — maybe a vacation, time with family, or just a few days of rest — but then Monday hits, and it feels like all that restoration disappears the moment you open your inbox. Sound familiar? In this episode of The Art and Science of Thriving, I explore why the way you transition back after time off matters more than you think — and how to do it right. Drawing on neuroscience, psychology, and high-performance research, you’ll learn: What happens in your brain and body when you dive back into work too quickly.Why poor re-entry erases the benefits of your break in hours instead of weeks.The five things your brain and body actually need for recovery to “stick.”Practical, evidence-based strategies to create a smoother, more intentional re-entry.Whether you’ve just had a vacation, a long weekend, or even a short pause in your routine, this episode will help you protect the gains from your downtime — and turn your recovery into fuel for performance, creativity, and well-being. Instantly Unlock Performance, Well-Being and Balance Now The "Thrive Hive" is a monthly membership to help teach, coach and support individuals, organizational teams and their leaders in reaching their full potential, and living a flourishing life with balance and well-being. You get access to group coaching, monthly education, webinars/livecasts and other events, topic-based support and tools, and access to a private community of other like-minded individuals. You can find out more or sign up clicking here!

    25 min
See All (94)

About

Welcome to The Art and Science of Thriving, the podcast where high-achieving professionals unlock the secrets to living a fulfilling, balanced, and high-performing life. Through evidence-based insights in neuroscience, psychology, and high-performance strategies, we’ll explore how to achieve success without burnout, create clarity and purpose, and thrive in every area of your life.Michael Schiel, a high performance coach and transformation consultant, hosts the podcast. Michael helps overwhelmed people and teams find their purpose, achieve their goals, and reach peak performance while creating well-being, balance and fulfillment in their lives 

Information

  • Creator
    Michael Schiel
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    94
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Art and Science of Thriving
  • Show Website
    The Art and Science of Thriving