The Sales Leadership Show Phil Gerbyshak (he/him)

Episode Summary
In this episode of The Happiness Practices, host Phil Gerbyshak engages in a deep and insightful conversation with Catherine Morgan, the author of This Isn't Working!. Together, they explore the complexities of happiness, the epidemic of loneliness, and practical strategies to find joy in everyday life. From the importance of community to actionable happiness hacks, this episode is filled with valuable takeaways to help listeners cultivate a more content and joyful life.
Key Takeaways
* Happiness vs. Contentment: Catherine Morgan discusses the fleeting nature of happiness and emphasizes the importance of aiming for contentment, which is more sustainable.
* The Epidemic of Loneliness: They highlight the rising issue of loneliness and its tangible effects on health, comparing its impact to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
* Practical Strategies: The conversation includes practical strategies to improve mental well-being, such as moving your body, practicing gratitude, and being present in the moment.
Timestamps
* [00:00] - Introduction to the Happy AF Show and today’s guest, Catherine Morgan.
* [02:15] - Phil and Catherine discuss the concept of happiness as a North Star and its external nature.
* [05:00] - The importance of contentment and finding sustainable paths to it.
* [07:45] - Analysis of Elmo's viral tweet and the societal outpouring it triggered.
* [10:30] - Discussion on the mental health crisis and statistics from the CDC.
* [13:20] - Catherine's perspective on finding safe spaces and the importance of authentic conversations.
* [17:00] - The impact of loneliness and how community can mitigate it.
* [21:30] - Practical tips for offering help and being specific about support.
* [25:00] - Happiness hacks: Moving your body, gratitude practices, and mindfulness.
* [30:45] - The importance of being present and creating small moments of joy.
* [34:00] - Catherine's final tips from her book This Isn't Working! and how to start finding joy now.
Pull Quotes
"Happiness to me is a good North Star, but the issue with happiness is it seems to be externally directed... Contentment is maybe more sustainable." — Catherine Morgan
"Loneliness has a tangible, trackable effect on our health... It's equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day." — Catherine Morgan
"If you're starting to spiral, stop, drop, and find what you're grateful for. It doesn't matter what it is, just snap out of that spiraling." — Catherine Morgan
"Joy is always here if you clear off the debris on top. Even in the middle of all our human messiness, if you look for joy, you will likely find more happiness." — Catherine Morgan
Resources Mentioned
* Catherine Morgan's Book: This Isn't Working!
* Catherine Morgan's Website: Point A to Point B Transitions


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In this engaging episode of "The Cult of Overachievement," Phil Gerbyshak sits down with Matt Zemon to delve into the transformative potential of psychedelics and how they can impact one's journey to happiness and fulfillment. Matt, an advocate for psychedelics and the author of "Psychedelics for Everyone," shares his personal experiences and the scientific underpinnings of these substances. Here’s a summary of their insightful discussion, punctuated with memorable quotes from Matt.
The Road to Happiness
Matt opens the conversation with his definition of happiness: "Happiness is feeling comfortable with who I am and where I'm going." This sentiment resonates deeply with Phil, who acknowledges the importance of self-acceptance and direction in life. Matt explains that his journey to this state of contentment wasn't straightforward. "I think I've spent a lot of time in my life not really being comfortable with who I am and just providing," he confesses, illustrating how his prior achievements, while impressive, didn't bring true satisfaction.
The Catalyst: A Psychedelic Experience
Matt’s transition towards a happier life began in 2019 with a psychedelic experience involving magic mushrooms (psilocybin). He describes a profound six-hour session where he reconnected with his mother and felt an overwhelming sense of safety and love. This moment was a stark contrast to his everyday feelings. "I realized I felt incredibly safe and loved in that moment and then realized, wait a minute, I don't feel incredibly safe and loved in my everyday life," he recounts. This realization spurred an exploration of psychedelics under the guidance of spiritual leaders and medical professionals, ultimately leading to a broader understanding of self-worth and love.
From Personal Experience to Public Advocacy
This transformative journey inspired Matt to curate and edit his book, "Psychedelics for Everyone." His aim was to compile scientific and personal insights on psychedelics to educate a wider audience. He returned to school to obtain a master’s degree in Psychology and Neuroscience, ensuring that his book was grounded in scientific literature. "I went to people who were smarter than me about different topics and asked them to contribute to this book," he explains. The book offers a comprehensive overview of various psychedelics, their legal and ethical ramifications, and practical information for those interested in exploring these substances.
Challenging the Overachievement Mentality
Phil and Matt explore the concept of overachievement, questioning whether psychedelics can help individuals achieve more. Matt believes that psychedelics meet people where they are, facilitating a journey within that can lead to significant personal growth. "I think what's powerful about these medicines is that it meets people wherever they are," he says. Rather than driving traditional metrics of success like sales or accolades, psychedelics encourage a broader view of achievement—one focused on living a full, balanced life.
The Science Behind Psychedelics
Matt outlines the scientific mechanisms by which psychedelics affect the brain. These substances quiet the default mode network, reducing the inner narrative that often fuels anxiety and self-doubt. "The first thing it's going to do is it's going to quiet down your default mode network," Matt explains. This leads to increased neuroplasticity, allowing the brain to form new connections and facilitating a period of rapid learning and personal growth. Additionally, many users report profound spiritual experiences, gaining a deeper understanding of their place in the world.
Practical Considerations and Accessibility
Accessing psychedelics in a responsible manner is crucial. Matt outlines three primary ways people can access these substances: medical models, decriminalization movements, and psychedelic churches. Each path has its own advantages and challenges, from cost considerations to the level of support p

Episode Overview:
In this insightful episode of the Happy AF Show, host Phil Gerbyshak welcomes Bernie Borges, the host of the Midlife Fulfilled podcast. Bernie shares his journey from a marketing entrepreneur to focusing on midlife fulfillment, highlighting the distinction between happiness and fulfillment. They delve into the five pillars of fulfillment and explore how midlife is a season of its own, filled with opportunities and challenges.
Key Discussion Points:
1. Introduction to Midlife Fulfilled Podcast:
- Bernie Borges discusses his motivation for creating the Midlife Fulfilled podcast, emphasizing the need for content that addresses midlife fulfillment, particularly for men.
2. Happiness vs. Fulfillment:
- Bernie explains the difference between happiness and fulfillment, noting that while happiness is fleeting, fulfillment is deep and enduring.
3. The Five Pillars of Fulfillment:
- Health, Fitness, Career, Relationships, and Legacy are identified as key areas to achieve fulfillment. Bernie shares insights from his interviews and personal experiences on navigating these pillars.
4. Challenges and Strategies:
- The conversation covers the difficulties of maintaining fulfillment in various aspects of life, particularly legacy, and offers strategies to overcome these challenges.
5. Redefining Midlife:
- Bernie redefines midlife beyond the traditional 40-60 age range, proposing that it starts in the 30s when adulting responsibilities begin and continues until the end of life.
Pull Quotes:
1. “Happiness is a fleeting moment... Fulfillment, Phil, is soul deep. It is immutable.”
2. “Legacy is the hardest one... because it is something we think about in midlife.”
3. “If you’re 80% fulfilled, you’re doing great.”
4. “Life is complex... put the pressure on yourself across the Five Pillars.”
Final Thoughts:
Bernie Borges leaves listeners with the advice to evaluate their lives across the five pillars, providing clarity and focus. His message encourages embracing the complexities of midlife with a balanced approach to fulfillment.
Resources:
- Visit Midlife Fulfilled for more insights and the midlife career checklist.
Tune in to this episode for an engaging discussion on finding deep and lasting fulfillment in midlife!


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In an enlightening conversation with speaker and author Justin Jones-Fosu, Phil Gerbyshak delved into the themes and insights from Justin’s latest book, I Respectfully Disagree: How to Have Difficult Conversations in a Divided World. The book serves as a timely manual for navigating the complexities of dialogue in our often polarized society. During the discussion, Justin shared several key points that underscore the importance of respectful disagreement and the pursuit of meaningfulness over mere happiness in our interactions.
Justin began by explaining his unique definition of happiness: "I define happiness as actually meaningfulness. There are certain things in our lives that may not bring a smile or a great sense of excitement but are worth it because we realize the power of what we're doing." This perspective sets the tone for his approach to engaging in difficult conversations, emphasizing that the value lies not in the immediate gratification but in the meaningful outcomes of our efforts.
When asked about the essence of respectful disagreement, Justin outlined the subtleties that distinguish it from disrespectful exchanges: "In our research, we initially set out to help people move from disrespectful disagreement — which often involves name-calling — to respectful disagreement, which values the humanity of people." He stressed the importance of still honoring humanity, even when ideologies clash, suggesting that "I can vitally disagree with your ideology and yet still passionately pursue your humanity."
One of the novel concepts Justin introduces in his book is the idea of "disrespectful agreement," which occurs when people superficially agree in the moment but privately dissent or fail to express their true feelings due to power differentials or societal expectations. This form of agreement can be just as damaging as disrespectful disagreement because it undermines genuine understanding and respect.
Justin also critiqued the notion of minimal respect, using a playful disagreement with Aretha Franklin's famous line from her song "Respect": "In our society, we don't need just a little bit of respect; we need a whole lot of it. It’s not about a little bit of respect right now; it’s about a whole lot of it."
Another poignant insight from Justin revolved around the concept that "How you see is what you get." He explained, "It’s not about what you see; it's how you see. How you engage with the person, how you think of the person, dramatically influences the interaction." He highlighted a 1968 study where teachers treated students they believed were more gifted differently, which significantly affected those students' performance, illustrating how perceptions can alter realities.
To cultivate the kind of self-awareness and perspective needed for respectful disagreement, Justin suggests challenging one's own views and continuously learning: "Put yourself in positions of learning constantly... Challenge your perspective as the first pillar of bridging divides."
Phil and Justin’s conversation not only highlighted the vital strategies for fostering respectful discourse but also showcased the deep need for a shift in how we approach disagreements in every sphere of our lives—from personal relationships to professional environments. As the book I Respectfully Disagree rolls out, it invites readers to embark on a journey of transformation, learning to engage in disagreements not just respectfully but meaningfully, ultimately cultivating a more understanding and cohesive society.


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In the latest captivating episode of "The Happiness Practices" podcast, host Phil Gerbyshak engages in a deep and insightful conversation with Ryan Hopkins, author of the influential book, "52 Weeks of Well-Being." This episode, dedicated to exploring practical ways to enhance personal happiness, offers listeners a treasure trove of wisdom and actionable advice.
Core Themes Discussed:
* Understanding Happiness: Ryan Hopkins kicks off the discussion by emphasizing the holistic nature of happiness. He explains that true contentment isn't just about fleeting moments of joy but about cultivating a sustainable environment where happiness can thrive through mindful practices.
* Weekly Well-Being Insights: Delving into the core concept of his book, Ryan shares how breaking down well-being practices into weekly activities can help individuals build resilience and maintain a positive outlook on life. Each week focuses on a different aspect of well-being, encouraging gradual and sustained personal growth.
* Practical Happiness Tools: Throughout the episode, both Ryan and Phil discuss various tools and techniques that listeners can adopt. For example, they explore mindfulness practices, the importance of gratitude, and the role of physical activity in boosting mental health.
* The Role of Community in Personal Happiness: An interesting part of the conversation revolves around the influence of community and relationships on one's well-being. Ryan stresses that connections with others play a crucial role in our happiness and how nurturing these connections can lead to profound joy and fulfillment.
* Personal Stories of Transformation: Adding a personal touch to the episode, Ryan shares stories from individuals who have successfully integrated his 52-week plan into their lives, illustrating the profound impact that deliberate practice can have on one's overall happiness.
Key Takeaways:
* Happiness is a multifaceted experience that demands proactive engagement in practices that nurture emotional, mental, and physical well-being.
* Simple, consistent actions, when performed over time, can lead to significant improvements in overall happiness.
* Community and social connections are foundational to building and sustaining joy.
Quotes from Ryan:
* "Happiness isn’t just a feeling; it’s a skill that you build day by day through intentional actions." - Ryan Hopkins
* "Each week of your life can be a step towards a greater, more vibrant version of you." - Ryan Hopkins
* "True joy comes not just from what we do for ourselves, but how we connect with others." - Ryan Hopkins
Listen above or enjoy the YouTube video below.


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In the latest episode of the Sales Leadership Show, titled "Built to Beat Chaos," host Phil Gerbyshak explores the profound insights of Gary Harpst on harnessing chaos as a catalyst for personal and organizational growth. Harpst, a seasoned CEO with five decades of leadership experience and an author inspired by biblical wisdom, shares invaluable perspectives on leading oneself and others through the tumult of life and business.
"Recognize that you are built to beat chaos."At the onset, Harpst shares the transformative advice that shaped his career and led to his latest book. He explains, "The best advice I ever got was to recognize that I am built to beat chaos. So many times, I've felt like a victim of chaos, and it turns out we're not intended to be victims, but victors." This mindset shift from victimhood to victory is central to his philosophy and serves as a cornerstone for his teachings on leadership.
"Chaos is not an enemy, it's just a set of circumstances which you need to figure out what your purpose is."During the conversation, Harpst challenges the conventional perception of chaos as inherently negative. "Chaos, if you really go back to the first time it's discussed in scripture, is just raw material from which we can build things," he states. This redefinition encourages leaders to view chaotic situations as opportunities filled with potential, waiting to be shaped by a clear and purpose-driven approach.
"The symptom of this sense of being closed in by chaos is a sign to think a little more about your purpose."Harpst emphasizes the critical relationship between chaos and purpose. He advises that feeling overwhelmed by chaos should act as a cue to refocus and clarify one’s purpose. This clarity allows individuals to prioritize actions and manage chaos effectively, turning overwhelming situations into structured, actionable plans.
Throughout the episode, Harpst provides practical advice for leaders facing chaotic environments. He illustrates this with a real-world example from a healthcare provider on the south side of Chicago during the COVID-19 pandemic. Overwhelmed by an influx of service requests, the organization needed to prioritize effectively. Harpst advised them to focus singularly on improving their response rate to incoming calls, which helped reduce the chaos and clarified the demand.
Leadership, according to Harpst, starts from within. It involves aligning one's desires, reason, and actions to navigate and order one’s internal chaos before effectively leading others. He elaborates on the biblical perspective of being designed to overcome chaos, likening leadership to cooking a meal or building a house—both processes that transform a set of diverse components into a coherent and purposeful whole.
In Conclusion: Gary Harpst’s insights on "Built to Beat Chaos" reveal a profound understanding of leadership as a dynamic interplay between internal clarity and external challenges. By reframing chaos as an opportunity and emphasizing the importance of purpose, Harpst not only provides a blueprint for personal growth but also enhances organizational resilience and effectiveness. His biblical inspirations serve as a foundation for a leadership style that is both transformative and deeply human-centric, advocating for a leadership that nurtures both individual and collective growth in facing the inevitable chaos of life.



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