The Gratitude Podcast

Georgian Benta

Join me and thousands of other Gratitude Seekers on a calming and relaxing experience learning about and integrating gratitude in your life through inspiring stories, affirmations, meditations and words of wisdom from famous people. Our mental health has suffered these last few years, but thankfully gratitude has been scientifically proven to help us heal and get back on track.  Gratitude changed my life and that’s why I want to inspire 100.000 people to discover how to feel grateful more often and live a happy life. Let me support you in making gratitude a habit with over 900 free episodes and at least 1 inspiring story per week. The Gratitude Podcast is one of the top 1% most popular shows out of over 3,000,000 podcasts globally.

  1. Embrace Every Compliment: Turning Appreciation into Personal Growth - Laura Baxter (ep. 976)

    2D AGO

    Embrace Every Compliment: Turning Appreciation into Personal Growth - Laura Baxter (ep. 976)

    Welcome to another episode where we dive deep into the habits, stories, and mindsets that keep successful people thriving. In today’s episode we sit down with Laura Baxter, an award‑winning opera singer turned performance coach, speaker, and author living in Germany. Laura shares the pivotal moment that reshaped her whole approach to gratitude: singing at a noble‑family wedding in a medieval chapel and realizing that being “grateful in the moment” is far more powerful than simply feeling grateful. From the highs of touring the U.S. with a national opera company to the challenges of restarting her career from scratch in Germany—auditions, a new family, and the sting of stage fright—Laura explains how a simple prayer before each performance kept her grounded. She reveals the tools that keep her centered, from the mantra “I choose love” taught by her mentor Nan Burt, to a compliment journal that transformed the way she receives praise. Resources: Laura's website: https://www.voice4leadership.de/us/ Head to https://AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code GRATITUDE to get UP TO $300 off today! Thank you so much for listening to The Gratitude Podcast! Please rate and review us everywhere you listen to podcasts, including Spotify & Apple Podcasts. Timestamps: 03:37 – Why gratitude is the top emotion of successful leaders 04:46 – Laura shares a pivotal gratitude moment in her life 05:25 – Career shift: from a busy U.S. opera schedule to restarting in Germany 06:52 – Wedding performance invitation and the noble‑family setting 07:38 – Realization: be grateful in the moment; promise to pray before each singing gig 08:29 – Recent concerts: reviving Copland’s “In the Beginning” and feeling gratitude 09:13 – Details of the challenging a‑cappella piece and its difficulty 09:45 – Finding the right choir (Volcante) despite doubts 10:21 – Reflection on privilege and gratitude for rare performance opportunities 10:39 – Gratitude applies to all professions, not just singers 11:29 – Universal gratitude: from factories to farms, recognizing the gift of work 12:31 – Influence of Emmett Fox’s positive‑thinking “seven‑day diet” on Laura’s mindset 13:51 – Struggles to stay grateful during hard times; importance of pausing 14:47 – Contextual gratitude amid global issues (refugees, daily life) 15:15 – Encouragement to cultivate a habit of gratitude despite imperfections 16:18 – Trigger: noticing complaints → instantly shift to gratitude 16:42 – Habitual practice to overcome moments when gratitude feels hard 17:09 – Question about a time Laura wasn’t truly grateful 17:49 – Answer: being caught in the “rat race” and missing present‑moment gratitude 18:30 – Stress of constant responsibilities and self‑doubt in a performance career 19:01 – Description of the ultra‑difficult Copland piece and its history 19:28 – Stage fright confession and its impact 20:11 – Introduction to mentor Nan Burt (92‑year‑old “rocking chair” wisdom) 20:38 – Nan’s gifts: books, “Love is Letting Go of Fear,” and the “I choose love” mantra 22:34 – Mantra “I choose love” explained and its power 23:03 – Using the mantra during the concert; inner transformation on stage 24:07 – Realization of love’s role in performance confidence 24:25 – Prompt: recall a moment lacking gratitude 24:47 – Advice to younger self: live fully in the present, enjoy each minute 25:42 – “Youth is wasted on the young” – savor the moment now 26:03 – Call to be present, aware, and grateful in every instant 26:42 – Book focus: Dealing with Divas – helping readers stay calm, centered, focused 27:31 – Coaching executives on voice, body language, and inner presence 28:06 – “Divas” as difficult personalities that disrupt our center 28:47 – Four powerful states: forgiveness, love, play, gratitude 29:27 – Personal anecdote: moving from scattered to centered power 30:28 – People Laura is grateful for: Nan Burt, parents, collaborators, listeners 31:19 – Quote: gratitude creates joy, not the reverse 31:55 – Gratitude fuels success; without it success feels hollow 32:44 – Contrast: highly successful yet unhappy people lack gratitude 33:17 – Practical gratitude tools: stop complaining, imagine life without the annoyance 34:05 – Journaling habit: daily reflections and a “compliment journal” 35:08 – How recording every compliment reshaped Laura’s mindset 36:37 – Importance of truly receiving compliments as gifts 37:18 – Rewiring focus from negativity to positive acknowledgment 38:08 – Book launch details: Kindle version free 8‑22 May 2024 38:33 – Offer explanation: free download, then paid physical/Kindle release 39:16 – Redefining “diva”: relative to personal perception, not just dominant traits 40:16 – Book structure: first half = inner strength; second half = understanding others & building bridges Experience more abundance on georgianbenta.com/abundance Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    44 min
  2. From Alcoholic Family Roots to Fearless Leadership - Peter Scott IV (ep. 975)

    FEB 9

    From Alcoholic Family Roots to Fearless Leadership - Peter Scott IV (ep. 975)

    In today’s episode we sit down with one of the most compelling voices in the world of mindset, fitness, and entrepreneurship—Peter Scott IV, founder of the Fearless Life Academy and bestselling author of Fearless Mindset. Peter’s story is a raw, powerful illustration of how the pain of our past can become the fuel for unstoppable growth—if we choose gratitude over victimhood. We’ll hear the pivotal moments that shaped his journey: a courtroom showdown at age 10 confronting his mother’s alcoholism, the heart‑breaking loss of his father to fear‑driven self‑destruction, and the profound realization that “the pain of our past produces so much power if we choose it to be.” From there, Peter shares how he shattered the limiting belief that love must be earned and rewired his life with gratitude, responsibility, and action. You’ll walk away with concrete tools Peter lives by every day: “Measuring Back” – slowing down to celebrate how far you’ve come before chasing the next goal.A daily gratitude habit – sending love to three people each morning and truly feeling each gratitude.Focused action over control – delegating what you don’t love, embracing movement to shift physiology, and serving others even when resources feel scarce. If you’re ready to transform fear into fearless gratitude, tap “follow,” settle in, and let this conversation inspire you to own your story, celebrate the journey, and become unstoppable. Stay grateful, stay fearless. Befor you hit play, a quick apology—I’m aware the mic isn’t sounding its best today, so thanks for bearing in with me. Resources: Peter's website: https://www.peterscott4.com/ Head to https://AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code GRATITUDE to get UP TO $300 off today! Thank you so much for listening to The Gratitude Podcast! Please rate and review us everywhere you listen to podcasts, including Spotify & Apple Podcasts. Timestamps: 01:18 – Synchronicity story: meditation vision leads to meeting Peter on Instagram.02:22 – Mutual awe at the “magic” of the connection.03:20 – Peter’s childhood trauma: courtroom testimony about his mother’s alcoholism.04:32 – Resulting limiting belief – truth‑telling = loss of love; fear‑driven approval‑seeking.05:00 – Father’s hospice moment – fear as the root of his death.05:33 – Decision to never let fear control his life (or anyone’s).06:33 – Shift from blame to responsibility; cultivating compassion for his parents.07:07 – Gratitude transforms painful past into unstoppable power.08:10 – Rejecting “destiny” predictions; choosing freedom over fatalism.09:18 – Gratitude + action = change; don’t accept limiting forecasts.09:59 – Definition of gratitude: celebrating every moment, being present.10:28 – Gratitude for high‑achievers: detach from outcomes, enjoy the journey.11:33 – Escapism warning: alcohol, drugs, porn as avoidance of ungratefulness.12:44 – No “bad” emotions—feel them fully, learn the lesson, then release.13:04 – Pain is inevitable; suffering is a story we choose to tell.13:57 – Focus on what you can control; release the rest to avoid depression.14:43 – Delegation: let others handle tasks so you can work in your unique strength.15:30 – Others may love the tasks you dread—empower them, it’s a win‑win.15:59 – “Measuring back”: pause, look back, appreciate how far you’ve come.16:51 – Use that gratitude as fuel for the next goal.18:18 – Cliché wisdom: appreciating what you have attracts more of it.19:30 – Fitness joy vs. willpower: do activities you love for sustainable habit.20:42 – When gratitude feels hard: morning meditation + sending love to three people.21:30 – Visual “measuring back” (old videos), then move your body to shift physiology.22:23 – Exercise (CrossFit, running, surfing) creates endorphins that lift gratitude.23:19 – Deep gratitude practice: truly feel each item on your list, don’t just check boxes.24:55 – “Focus out”: help others → boost your own gratitude and abundance.25:12 – Turning financial scarcity into abundance by serving someone in need.26:59 – Feeling like a fraud? Serve those a few steps behind you; you still add value.27:43 – Offer help in areas where you excel, even if the person’s biggest need is elsewhere.28:46 – Always ask permission before giving advice; respect others’ boundaries.30:12 – Podcast mastermind experiment → realized his own hidden value (the “curse of knowledge”).31:46 – Sharing knowledge validates its worth; encourages others to do the same.33:22 – Road‑trip with Shawn Stevenson: “gratitude for the pain” – the mess contains the message.35:54 – “Diamond in the rough” metaphor: painful experiences become shining value.37:24 – Travel gratitude: witnessing basic comforts magnifies appreciation for them.40:06 – Advice to younger self: enjoy the journey, be present, cherish breakdowns as lessons.42:04 – Constant presence & appreciation prevents future‑focused burnout.43:09 – Daily gratitude habits: meditation, sending love, gratitude list (felt), fitness, learning, outreach.44:19 – People who shaped him: his grandfather, Shawn Stevenson (mentor), girlfriend Amy. Experience more abundance on georgianbenta.com/abundance Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    49 min
  3. Learning to Walk Again: A Grateful Perspective on Recovery and Resilience - Annabel Abbs (ep. 974)

    FEB 2

    Learning to Walk Again: A Grateful Perspective on Recovery and Resilience - Annabel Abbs (ep. 974)

    In today’s episode we sit down with Annabel Abbs, a former corporate marketing consultant turned writer, researcher, and gratitude‑champion. After selling her consultancy and raising four children, Annabel discovered her “first love” – literature – and, more importantly, a profound sense of gratitude that reshaped her whole worldview. She recounts how immersing herself in the life of a young Irish‑born dancer in 1920s Paris sparked the realization that many of the comforts we take for granted – electricity, central heating, the freedom to choose our own paths – are true gifts. A life‑changing head injury in the hospital forced Annabel to confront vulnerability head‑on. Watching strangers walk by a window, she promised herself to cherish every step she could take again. That promise led her into a deep dive of gratitude research from Harvard and American universities, revealing that intentional gratitude can reduce pain, boost happiness, speed recovery, and even improve sleep. Annabelle didn’t stop at personal practice. She introduced a simple gratitude ritual at her family table – one thing each person shares before meals – and watched it ripple out to friends, guests, and even strangers she’d never met. She shares why public expressions of thanks often feel more powerful than private journals, how imagination and acting can help us “step into another’s shoes,” and why cultivating gratitude is especially vital for the British tendency to focus on what’s lacking. In this episode you’ll hear: The pivotal moment that shifted Annabel from corporate to creative life.How imagining a historic figure opened the door to everyday thankfulness.The science behind gratitude’s health benefits and how to make the practice tangible.A family‑wide gratitude ritual that turned meals into moments of connection.Heart‑warming stories of strangers and hospital companions who reminded her of her own luck.Whether you’re wrestling with a tough day, looking for a simple habit to boost your wellbeing, or just curious about how gratitude can transform both mind and body, Annabel's journey offers both inspiration and practical tools. Stay tuned—because today’s conversation might just be the spark you need to start seeing the world through a more grateful lens. Hit play, and let’s begin the gratitude adventure together. Resources: Annabel's website: https://www.annabelabbs.com Head to https://AirDoctorPro.com and use promo code GRATITUDE to get UP TO $300 off today! Thank you so much for listening to The Gratitude Podcast! Please rate and review us everywhere you listen to podcasts, including Spotify & Apple Podcasts. Timestamps: 01:57 – From Corporate to Creative: Annabelle’s career shift and the firstrings of gratitude.02:45 – Historical Research: Discovering a 1920s Parisian girl’s story highlights Annabelle’s growing awareness of her own privilege.03:00 – British Gratitude Culture: Observation that the UK is less outwardly grateful than the US.03:45 – Modern Conveniences: Realizing how lucky we are to have electricity, heating, supermarkets, etc.04:33 – Power of Empathy: Imagining others’ lives uncovers gratitude for everyday comforts.05:09 – Dark History: A sister locked in an asylum underscores Annabelle’s gratitude for freedom.05:47 – Creative Life Enabling Gratitude: Leaving corporate life made gratitude easier to feel.06:39 – Brain Wiring: Evolutionary bias toward negativity; gratitude rewires the brain.07:29 – Everyday Issues: Simple plumbing problems illustrate how easily we overlook blessings.08:45 – Host Meets Guest: Host reads Annabelle’s article and invites her onto the show.08:59 – Accident & Hospital: Annabelle’s severe head injury and the start of her conscious gratitude practice.10:28 – Window View & Envy: Watching others walk fuels her promise to cherish walking again.11:23 – Gratitude Commitment: Vows to thank herself each day she can walk.11:53 – Research Findings: Harvard & US studies link gratitude to health, longevity, and faster recovery.13:19 – Tangible Practices: Writing, rituals, and letters make gratitude “real.”13:36 – Family Gratitude Ritual: Introducing a pre‑meal gratitude habit with partner and children.15:00 – First Family Meal: Everyone shares one thing they’re grateful for; initial awkwardness turns positive.15:48 – Routine Established: Gratitude before every family meal becomes a lasting tradition.16:34 – Ripple Effect: Public gratitude spreads to others and amplifies its impact.17:05 – Millionaire Insight: Gratitude improves relationships and personal ease.17:46 – Gratitude Letters: Writing specific thank‑you notes to people reinforces the practice.18:21 – Dark Days & Sharing: In low‑gratitude moments, hearing others’ gratitude lifts you out.19:27 – Journals vs. Public Sharing: Annabelle prefers outward expression over private journaling.20:13 – Feeling Over Writing: Speaking gratitude aloud or as a mantra creates stronger emotion.21:26 – Family Acceptance: Partner and kids embraced the practice with ease.22:27 – Long‑Term Benefits: Hope that gratitude becomes a lasting family value.23:08 – Rewiring for Positivity: Consistent positive experiences reshape the brain’s threat response.24:15 – Book Mention: Hardwiring Happiness (American authors) on gratitude science.24:44 – Cultural Contrast: US embraces gratitude more readily than the UK.25:22 – Weather & Reframing: Using rain‑rich scenery to shift perspective from gloom to gratitude.26:42 – Habitual Focus: Continuous attention to positives yields lasting happiness.27:32 – Neural Pathways: Building new brain routes to view life differently requires practice.28:12 – Free Health Tool: Gratitude is a low‑cost intervention with huge potential impact on public health.29:04 – Advice to Younger Self: Early exposure to gratitude (family meals, notes) could have accelerated her journey.30:08 – Podcast Purpose: Sharing real gratitude stories to inspire listeners early in life.31:18 – Ongoing Discovery: Even after many interviews, Annabelle continues learning about gratitude.32:24 – Gratitude to Strangers: Thanking unknown people for small acts like smiles.33:19 – Hospital Kindness: Two single‑mother patients uplifted her during recovery.34:36 – Small Gestures Matter: Recognizing everyday kindnesses that we often overlook.35:27 – Reduced Fight/Flight: Gratitude lessens threat perception, fostering kinder behavior.36:22 – Conscious “Thank You”: Saying thank you with feeling deepens the gratitude experience.37:41 – Closing & Contact: Annabelle’s websites (www.annabellabs.com, www.kaleandcoco.com) for more resources. Experience more abundance on georgianbenta.com/abundance Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    43 min
  4. Turning Winter Into Spring With Gratitude - Jason Morris (ep. 973)

    JAN 26

    Turning Winter Into Spring With Gratitude - Jason Morris (ep. 973)

    In this inspiring episode we sit down with Jason Morris, a thriving real‑estate entrepreneur from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, who’s turned the toughest “winters” of his life into the spring of his success. From building a high‑performing real‑estate team, authoring two Amazon best‑sellers, and growing a bustling Facebook community of agents, to welcoming his first child, Parker Claire, Jason shares how gratitude became his secret weapon. Together we explore: The “Winter‑Spring” metaphor – why every hardship (the cold, the divorce, market crashes) is the soil that nurtures growth.From hustle to purpose – how Jason shifted from grinding 24‑hour days to designing low‑overhead systems that let him coach agents across the country.Practical gratitude habits – daily gratitude lists, affirmation routines, and the power of the Reticular Activating System (RAS) to rewire your focus.Lessons from the past – the impact of family loss, the importance of savoring small moments, and advice he’d give his younger self.Actionable takeaways for anyone feeling stuck, whether you’re an agent, a budding entrepreneur, or simply seeking more joy in everyday life. If you’ve ever felt trapped in a personal or professional “winter,” Jason’s story reminds us that the next spring is waiting—if we stay connected to gratitude, adjust our mindset, and keep moving forward. Tune in, take notes, and discover how to turn your own challenges into a catalyst for growth. Resources: Jason Morris' books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jason-Morris/author/B072QKZ9WQ?ref=ap_rdr&shoppingPortalEnabled=true Head to https://AirDoctorPro.com  and use promo code GRATITUDE to get UP TO $300 off today! Thank you so much for listening to The Gratitude Podcast! Please rate and review us everywhere you listen to podcasts, including Spotify & Apple Podcasts. Timestamps: 02:39 – New parent milestone: Jason shares the birth of his daughter Parker Claire and reflections on timing of parenthood. 04:22 – “Winter” lesson & divorce: Jason recounts losing his award‑winning team after divorce, realizing true profit wasn’t where he thought it was. 05:46 – Seasons of life analogy: Winter strengthens us; using that adversity to redesign his business with low overhead and better systems. 07:50 – Staying stuck in winter: People often remain in hardship; importance of inventorying gratitude during low points. 08:38 – Gratitude‑list exercise: Jack Canfield’s recommendation to write a daily gratitude list, even for small things (sunny days, rainy days). 09:57 – Real‑estate market crash (2008‑10): Agents who survived the crash still “live in” that winter, missing today’s boom. 13:36 – Defining gratitude: Jason lists big (new baby, parents) and tiny (sunshine, rainy days) things he’s thankful for. 15:13 – When gratitude feels hard: Turn to motivational speakers (Zig Ziglar, Jim Rohn, Tony Robbins) and the gratitude‑list to shift perspective. 16:36 – Favorite gratitude quotes: Tony Robbins: “Without gratitude you’ll never know fulfillment” & “When you’re grateful, fear disappears and abundance appears.” 18:17 – Power of content creation: Consistent free YouTube videos built authority, referrals, and coaching demand. 20:56 – Giving ≠ receiving paradox: Sowing massive free content leads to abundant returns (speaking gigs, podcast invites). 23:16 – Writing books for impact: Low‑priced Kindle books generate modest income but huge influence and credibility. 26:22 – Personal turning point: Grandfather’s death and subsequent family losses sparked deep appreciation for life’s fleeting moments. 33:36 – Advice to younger self: Don’t worry; hardships are temporary—spring follows winter. 34:25 – Scaling problems: Tim Ferriss’s “1‑10 life‑changing scale” to keep perspective on today’s challenges. 36:58 – Daily routine & affirmations: Morning affirmations (abundance, gratitude) program the RAS to notice more of what matters. 40:56 – Final gratitude roll‑call: Jason thanks Laura, baby Parker, parents, grandparents, agents, friends, authors, and the podcast host Experience more abundance on georgianbenta.com/abundance Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    43 min
  5. How Gratitude and the Miracle Morning Turn Rock Bottoms into Life‑Changing Success - Hal Elrod (ep. 972)

    JAN 19

    How Gratitude and the Miracle Morning Turn Rock Bottoms into Life‑Changing Success - Hal Elrod (ep. 972)

    Welcome back, Gratitude Seekers! In today’s episode we sit down with the man who turned a near‑fatal car crash into a global movement—Hal Elrod, creator of The Miracle Morning. Hal’s story is nothing short of cinematic: at 20, he survived a head‑on collision that left him clinically dead for six minutes, broke 11 bones, and was told he might never walk again. Through relentless gratitude, visualization, and a commitment to what he wanted—not just what he could accept—Hal not only walked again but rewired his entire life. We’ll unpack how that turning point birthed the SAVERS—Silence, Affirmations, Visualization, Exercise, Reading, and Scribing—six timeless practices that world‑class performers have used for centuries. Hal shows us how you can compress them into a 30‑to‑60‑minute morning ritual (or even a six‑minute “quick‑fire” version) and how they can transform everything from income to health to relationships. Along the way we’ll hear about: The three “rock bottoms” that shaped Hal’s resilience, from a catastrophic crash to the 2008 financial collapse.The science behind gratitude, meditation, epigenetics, and neuroplasticity that turned his body into a healing miracle.Practical, battle‑tested strategies for beating the snooze button, hydrating first thing, and building unstoppable 30‑day habit loops.Real‑world success stories—people who went from “not a morning person” to thriving entrepreneurs, athletes, and even couples whose marriages were saved. Whether you’re a sunrise enthusiast or a self‑confessed night‑owl, this conversation will give you a roadmap to redesign your mornings, cultivate a habit of gratitude, and start living the life you’ve always imagined. Grab your headphones, take a deep breath, and get ready to dive into a story of survival, mindset mastery, and the everyday rituals that can turn ordinary days into extraordinary ones. Let’s begin! Resources: Hal's website: https://halelrod.com/ Head to https://airdoctorpro.com and use promo code GRATITUDE and depending on the model, you’ll receive UP TO 39% off or UP TO $300 off!  Thank you so much for listening to The Gratitude Podcast! Please rate and review us everywhere you listen to podcasts, including Spotify & Apple Podcasts. Timestamps: 02 :29 – Hal explains why gratitude is the core of his life.03 :15 – First rock‑bottom: the 1999 car crash that left him clinically dead.05 :38 – Acceptance of what can’t be changed & focus on gratitude.07 :15 – Visualization & prayer toward walking again; the “miraculous” recovery.08 :11 – Science behind gratitude: epigenetics & neuroplasticity.09 :14 – Second rock‑bottom: 2008 financial crash and loss of income & home.10 :33 – Hal’s search for “world‑class” daily rituals and discovery of morning routines.11 :19 – The premise: “Win the morning, win the day.”12 :15 – Epiphany: combine all six practices into one “Miracle Morning.”13 :04 – Creating excitement for the next morning to rise early.13 :22 – First 5‑am Miracle Morning: stumbling through all six practices.14 :07 – Results in two months – doubled income, ultramarathon, depression lifted.14 :46 – Teaching the routine to coaching clients; transforming “non‑morning” people.15 :54 – Decision to write The Miracle Morning book.16 :12 – Book release (12‑12‑12) and massive sales/ratings worldwide.16 :58 – Announcement of the Miracle Morning documentary premiering June 2.18 :39 – Advice for listeners who aren’t “morning people.”19 :30 – Survey result: 72 % of the community never were morning people.20 :22 – Five‑step “snooze‑proof” wake‑up strategy (alarm across the room, intention, etc.).23 :07 – Bed‑time intention script & free download at tmmbook.com.24 :33 – Immediate water intake on waking – why hydration matters.25 :37 – Full SAVERS overview (Silence, Affirmations, Visualization, Exercise, Reading, Scribing).27 :40 – Truth‑based affirmations that drive action.28 :07 – Visualization as action‑oriented mental rehearsal.28 :44 – Morning exercise tip: Seven‑Minute Workout app.29 :03 – Reading: “one book away” from transformation; small daily increments.30 :05 – Scribing (journaling) – using the 5‑Minute Journal.31 :22 – Robert Kiyosaki endorsement of the SAVERS routine.32 :26 – Importance of habit formation vs. knowledge.34 :02 – 30‑day habit‑building framework: Unbearable → Uncomfortable → Unstoppable.38 :12 – Hal’s personal gratitude list – wife, children, family.39 :30 – How to access the book, free chapters, video & audio resources.40 :45 – Closing remarks – call to share gratitude and keep seeking it. Experience more abundance on georgianbenta.com/abundance Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    41 min
  6. Start Small: Three Levels of Habit Change - Leo Babauta (ep. 971)

    JAN 13

    Start Small: Three Levels of Habit Change - Leo Babauta (ep. 971)

    In today’s episode we sit down with a true master of minimalism and mindful living—Leo Babauta, author of The Power of Less and creator of the wildly popular Zen Habits blog. A dad of six, a husband, and a lifelong seeker of simplicity, Leo shares his freshest insights on turning gratitude from a once‑a‑day ritual into a powerful mental habit that reshapes our emotional wiring. Together we’ll uncover: What gratitude really means when it moves from “list‑the‑things‑I’m‑thankful‑for” to a deeper awakening to life’s miracle.How to welcome tough emotions—the anger, sadness, or resentment that arise in relationships—by turning the spotlight of gratitude on the feeling itself, and on the person behind it.Three levels of habit formation: the starter habit of a two‑minute daily gratitude meditation, the challenge of replacing unhealthy habits, and the hardest—but most rewarding—shift of mental patterns that occurs multiple times a day.Practical, bite‑size tools for catching old, automatic reactions, noticing the physical cues of a stressed mind, and consciously choosing a new, grateful response.The art of “present‑moment gratitude” in everyday chores—from chin‑ups with your child to washing a single dish—so the journey becomes the reward, not just the end goal. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a loop of “getting through” rather than “being in” each moment, this conversation will give you a roadmap for rewiring those old neural pathways and cultivating a life that feels fuller, richer, and more connected—starting with just one mindful breath. Resources: Leo's website: https://leobabauta.com/ Head to https://airdoctorpro.com and use promo code GRATITUDE and depending on the model, you’ll receive UP TO 39% off or UP TO $300 off!  Thank you so much for listening to The Gratitude Podcast! Please rate and review us everywhere you listen to podcasts, including Spotify & Apple Podcasts. Timestamps: 02:34 – Leo describes gratitude as both a reminder of everyday blessings and a deeper awakening to life’s beauty. 03:09 – Gratitude can deepen learning even during hard times and painful emotions. 04:23 – Using gratitude to sit with discomfort rather than avoid it. 05:45 – Reference to an emotional‑intelligence expert: feeling all emotions amplifies positive ones. 06:30 – Prompt: “What do you do when you’re angry after a fight?” 07:10 – Leo explains his habitual reaction to his wife’s unhappiness (withdrawal, wall‑building). 08:48 – Consequences of the withdrawal pattern — more unhappiness for both partners. 09:20 – The “A‑test” vs. “B‑test” moment: choosing to notice the habit and try a new path. 09:54 – Introducing gratitude into the moment: acknowledge the feeling, then welcome it. 10:38 – Notice the physical sensations that accompany the emotion (tight chest, pain). 11:15 – Ask whether you can be grateful for that feeling and what it reveals about being alive and loved. 12:13 – Turn toward the other person and try to be grateful for them as they are right now. 13:07 – Extend the practice: fall in love with yourself or strangers exactly as they are. 14:07 – Recognize interconnectedness; see the conflict as a shared team challenge. 15:07 – Realize you’re building a new habit rather than relying on old patterns. 16:36 – Old neural pathways formed in childhood can become counter‑productive; need new pathways. 17:49 – The easiest habit to form: a once‑daily 2‑minute meditation or gratitude practice. 18:40 – Other simple physical habits (water, push‑ups, yoga, writing) as beginner‑level habits. 19:08 – Level 2 habit: breaking a bad habit and replacing it with a positive one that meets the same need. 20:05 – Level 3 habit: changing mental habits; unpredictable, can recur many times a day. 21:13 – Use physical cues (clenched hands, sighing, walking away) to become aware of mental habits. 22:22 – “Emotional habits” – how we react to gifts or achievements without gratitude. 23:46 – Example: chin‑up challenge with his son; noticing the mental habit of rushing to the end. 25:21 – Rushing through habits turns them into chores and leads to burnout. 26:19 – Embed gratitude and presence into every habit moment, not just the end result. 27:48 – Life is the collection of moments between goals, not just the milestones. 29:13 – Gratitude as the “great fullness of life,” appreciating each instant fully. 30:55 – Apply gratitude to mundane chores (washing dishes, cleaning) by being fully present. 32:48 – Joy can be found in messy, painful, or uncomfortable moments; deepest learning occurs there. 33:45 – Closing: Leo shares who he’s grateful for (loved ones, podcast listeners, all beings). Experience more abundance on georgianbenta.com/abundance Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    37 min
  7. Thank God 2025 Is Over - Let's Start Anew With Gratitude (ep. 970)

    JAN 5

    Thank God 2025 Is Over - Let's Start Anew With Gratitude (ep. 970)

    Welcome back, Gratitude Seekers! 🎙️ I’m your host, and today we’re taking a mindful breath and saying “Thank God 2025 is over.” After a year that tested us—from global turmoil and lingering pandemic scars to the unsettling rise of AI—many of us feel the weight of uncertainty. But within that turbulence lie countless small, shining moments that can re‑wire our nervous system and lift our spirit. In this episode we’ll walk you through a simple, powerful habit to close the chapter on 2025 and step into 2026 with fresh optimism: a month‑by‑month gratitude exercise. We’ll show you how to: Tap into your photo library—search “January 2025,” “February 2025,” etc.—to spark vivid memories.Engage the senses—recall the taste of that lunch, the scent of a spa, the warmth of sunshine—to deepen the emotional impact.Write it down—capture at least one, ideally three, gratitude points per month, including the sensations that made them special.I’ll also share my own highlights from the past year—lunches with friends, comedy shows that made our bellies hurt, a Dali exhibition, tulip fields in Holland, a double rainbow after a storm, and more—showing how even the simplest experiences can become powerful anchors of gratitude. Grab your journal, open your photo album, and let’s unlock the joy hidden in the last twelve months, so we can launch 2026 with a heart full of gratitude and a mind poised for new, beautiful moments. Let’s dive in! Resources: Head to https://airdoctorpro.com and use promo code GRATITUDE and depending on the model, you’ll receive UP TO 39% off or UP TO $300 off!  Stay in touch on social: Insta: https://www.instagram.com/thegratitudepodcast/  Twitter: http://twitter.com/GeorgianBenta Facebook: http://facebook.com/TheGratitudePodcast/   Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegratitudepodcast Thank you so much for listening to The Gratitude Podcast! Please rate and review us everywhere you listen to podcasts, including Spotify & Apple Podcasts. Timestamps: 00:31 – Welcome & gratitude that 2025 is over. 00:46 – Acknowledging a challenging year and the need for a fresh start. 01:35 – Disappointment over missed peace & AI‑related tension. 02:11 – Ongoing COVID‑19 scars and suppressed emotions. 03:10 – Proposes a gratitude exercise: identify 1‑3 things per month. 04:09 – Importance of keeping a gratitude journal to recall moments. 05:40 – Focus on the small moments that shape our lives. 06:31 – Caution: photos can stir mixed emotions; stay focused on positives. 08:01 – Deepen recall by immersing in sensory details (touch, smell, taste). 08:40 – Write down gratitude items + the sensations tied to them. 09:26 – Sample gratitude list for each month of 2025. 15:50 – Closing encouragement: do the exercise, rewire your view of the past year, and start 2026 with gratitude. Experience more abundance on georgianbenta.com/abundance Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    17 min
  8. Grateful Every Year For The Passing Year - Julie Reisler (ep. 969)

    12/16/2025

    Grateful Every Year For The Passing Year - Julie Reisler (ep. 969)

    Welcome back to The Gratitude Podcast—the show that reminds us that every sunrise, every season, and every year that slips by is a gift waiting to be celebrated. Today’s episode lives up to our title: we’ll explore why being grateful for each passing year isn’t just a feel‑good habit, but a powerful catalyst for transformation. Our guest, Julie Riesler, embodies this mindset. She once faced the crushing belief that she was “too big to be a dancer,” battled a deep‑seated food addiction, and carried the weight of a family scarred by PTSD and financial strain. On the brink of ending it all, an inner voice nudged her into a support group—and that decision became the turning point that reshaped every year that followed. Since that moment, Julie has reinvented herself year after year—emerging as a TV personality, serial author, TEDx speaker, life‑design coach, global ambassador for brands like Lululemon and Canyon Ranch, and the director of the documentary Hungry for More. Her meditations have been downloaded over 100,000 times, and she continues to add “vintage wisdom” to her life, just like a fine wine that improves with age. In today’s conversation we’ll discover: How gratitude for each year can turn pain into purpose, using Julie’s “PhD in You” framework that honors past strengths, present gifts, and future dreams.Practical rituals—daily gratitude journaling, stillness meditations, and celebrating the tiny moments (the donut‑filled nursery‑school memory, the uneasy loan from a distant aunt) that accumulate into a life worth cherishing.Why the “passing year” matters: each new chapter invites us to become more authentic, to shift from constant “doing” to mindful “being,” and to recognize that every year adds another layer of wisdom, compassion, and resilience.The people who helped her grow—from Louise Hay and Wayne Dyer to her supportive sponsor, her family, and especially her two children, who remind her daily why she’s grateful for every year lived.Resources: Julie's website: https://juliereisler.com  Head to https://airdoctorpro.com and use promo code GRATITUDE and depending on the model, you’ll receive UP TO 39% off or UP TO $300 off!  Stay in touch on social: Insta: https://www.instagram.com/thegratitudepodcast/  Twitter: http://twitter.com/GeorgianBenta Facebook: http://facebook.com/TheGratitudePodcast/   Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@thegratitudepodcast Thank you so much for listening to The Gratitude Podcast! Please rate and review us everywhere you listen to podcasts, including Spotify & Apple Podcasts. Timestamps: 00:42 – Intro to guest Julie Riesler and her early hardships (dance rejection, food addiction, family trauma).01:05 – Julie’s turning point: crisis moment, choosing life, becoming a TV personality, author, speaker, coach.01:59 – Welcome and gratitude for Julie’s presence.02:12 – Host’s appreciation for Julie’s authenticity.02:27 – Julie’s mission: help high‑achieving people love themselves and trust inner wisdom.03:21 – “PhD in You” metaphor & past people‑pleasing struggle.04:01 – The pivotal inner voice urging Julie to attend a support meeting.04:28 – Julie’s obsession with reviving “light” in others through gratitude and self‑love.05:01 – How gratitude transformed Julie’s life and fuels her purpose.05:16 – Julie’s daily gratitude practice (structured & spontaneous).05:51 – Host reflects on staying true to self amid external expectations.06:26 – Wisdom aging metaphor revisited; need for authentic “you‑est” self.06:41 – Contrast between society’s “doing” mindset and the need for stillness.07:15 – Host’s fire‑sign drive vs. importance of quiet, receptive stillness.07:26 – Emphasis on meditation and listening to inner intuition.07:55 – The frenzied media environment and importance of becoming “USU.”08:21 – Introduction of the “PhD in You” method.08:49 – Overview of the method: gratitude‑based self‑study.09:02 – Step 1: Review past strengths, gifts, successes.09:12 – Step 2: Ground in present sensations, hearing, seeing, feeling.09:25 – Step 3: Design future dreams using past strengths and present clarity.09:58 – Reframing past failures & future fear into sacred purpose.10:23 – Recognizing unique gifts in every person.10:47 – Shift from “doing” to “being” – living by one’s gifts.11:38 – Importance of honoring past achievements through gratitude.12:14 – Gratitude as the “elixir” that flavors life like salt in a soup.12:49 – Using gratitude to reframe painful memories (example of dad’s PTSD).13:18 – Turning hardship into fuel for personal growth via gratitude.13:58 – Gratitude as limitless, always available.14:15 – “When in doubt, go to gratitude.”14:45 – Gratitude empowers victims to become creators of their story.14:57 – Host shares a personal college‑funding story.15:09 – Love for learning; viewing life as an endless school.15:17 – Financial crisis in junior year; three jobs and limited aid.15:23 – Seeking options & gratitude for potential helpers.15:50 – Remembering a generous great‑aunt as a possible loan source.16:02 – The uncomfortable but decisive call to the aunt.16:16 – Aunt’s loan and eventual gift; repayment turned into gratitude.16:34 – Unexpected family connections formed through that loan.16:50 – Reflection on the uncomfortable request and its positive outcome.16:58 – Gratitude for the aunt’s generosity and the lesson learned.17:06 – Host relates to the vulnerability of asking for help.17:20 – The power of gratitude after receiving assistance.17:30 – “Don’t take ‘no’ as an answer” – persistence fosters greater connection.17:41 – Gratitude amplifies opportunities and beautiful outcomes.17:54 – Gratitude often stems from helping others, not just receiving.18:04 – Gratitude encourages humility and asking for help.18:26 – Early gratitude memory: donuts and a stuffed elephant in nursery school.19:41 – Childhood gratitude seeds from mother’s gratitude journal and Louise Hay.19:57 – Mirror‑hug practice; initial resistance turned into wisdom.20:24 – Early gratitude foundation planted despite a rough environment.21:23 – Discussion on teaching gratitude to children; small moments matter.22:03 – Host’s insight: noticing tiny, everyday moments boosts joy.22:33 – Quote from Einstein on viewing life as miracle or not.22:39 – Choice to see everything as miraculous.22:58 – Host asks Julie about key people in her life.23:21 – Julie lists inspirations: Louise Hay, Wayne Dyer, sponsor Paula, Mom.23:44 – Best friend Meg, husband Heath, admiration for Oprah.24:02 – Gratitude for self‑decision to attend that life‑changing meeting.24:20 – Acknowledgment of great‑aunt, children, and many unnamed supporters.24:44 – Children as the biggest teachers; immeasurable gratitude.25:54 – Closing thank‑you and call to share the episode with someone who needs it.26:01 – Reminder to keep seeking and spreading gratitude. Experience more abundance on georgianbenta.com/abundance Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

    31 min
4.5
out of 5
161 Ratings

About

Join me and thousands of other Gratitude Seekers on a calming and relaxing experience learning about and integrating gratitude in your life through inspiring stories, affirmations, meditations and words of wisdom from famous people. Our mental health has suffered these last few years, but thankfully gratitude has been scientifically proven to help us heal and get back on track.  Gratitude changed my life and that’s why I want to inspire 100.000 people to discover how to feel grateful more often and live a happy life. Let me support you in making gratitude a habit with over 900 free episodes and at least 1 inspiring story per week. The Gratitude Podcast is one of the top 1% most popular shows out of over 3,000,000 podcasts globally.

You Might Also Like