TOUGH TALKS: Conversations on Mental Toughness

Chris Dorris
  • 3.8 (24)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Most of us never learned how to train our brains, which is why most of us needlessly settle, struggle and worse – suffer. My name is Chris Dorris and I want to make Brain Training mainstream. This is my series TOUGH TALKS: Conversations on Mental Toughness. I’m interviewing badasses from all walks of life, on what Mental Toughness means to them, and their unique approaches to strengthening their mind. For videos, visit http://bit.ly/tough-talks

  1. TOUGH TALKS - E131 - Brian Tracy's Guide to Success

    02/12/2025

    TOUGH TALKS - E131 - Brian Tracy's Guide to Success

    First off, Brian Tracy is a titan in personal development, and his insights on mental toughness are pure gold. He's written 94 books on success, leadership, personal development and goals. 94! And he's working on 6 more to get to a nice round 100!We discuss the art of transforming rejection into resilience—an absolute game-changer for anyone in sales. Brian shares his legendary "Psychology of Selling," a seminar that has literally created millionaires worldwide. It's all about harnessing mental fortitude to turn setbacks into setups for success.Brian's relentless pursuit of excellence is infectious. At 81, he's still reading three hours a day, constantly evolving and sharpening his skills. We explore his journey from seminar attendee to a global influencer, emphasizing the importance of continuous learning and self-improvement.One of the standout moments is Brian's take on "Eat That Frog," a concept inspired by Mark Twain, and the title of one of his best-selling books. It's about tackling the toughest tasks first to set the tone for a productive day. This episode is a treasure trove of actionable strategies, empowering you to respond to life's challenges with mastery and enthusiasm.Brian's passion for helping others succeed shines through, and his wisdom is a blueprint for anyone serious about leveling up their game.At the very end, he actually beat me to the punch on what would have been my final question of the interview. I was about to ask him, "If you could only give ONE piece of advice to people on how to realize their dreams, what would it be?" And his answer (before I even got to ask it) has become a part of my morning routine now. You'll love it!Here is the link to the episode: https://christopherdorris.com/ough-talks-brian-tracys-guide-to-success/Here's a breakdown of some of the key moments in our conversation:05:00: The Power of Goal Setting10:30: Transforming Rejection into Resilience18:2: The 80/20 Rule in Personal Development22:45: Unleashing Your Personal Power28:35: The Art of Continuous Improvement32:50: Mastering Self-Discipline40:15: Writing Goals for Success48:00: Creating a Life on Your Terms52:10: The Simplicity of Success57:30: The Impact of Mental ToughnessMore about Bryan:Website: https://www.briantracy.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrianTracyPage?sk=wallLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/brian-tracy-international/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebriantracy?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3DTwitter: https://x.com/briantracy?mx=2

    1h 11m
  2. TOUGH TALKS - E130 - Magic Mushrooms & Mental Toughness with Cate Ritter

    06/12/2024

    TOUGH TALKS - E130 - Magic Mushrooms & Mental Toughness with Cate Ritter

    Hey Tribe,In this latest episode of Tough Talks we're exploring the intriguing intersection of mental toughness and the transformative power of psilocybin with none other than Cate Ritter, a licensed psilocybin facilitator and a beacon in the wellness community. Join us as we delve into the profound insights and personal experiences Cate brings to the table, illuminating the impactful role of psychedelics in fostering mental health and mastery. In our conversation, Cate unpacks the meticulous preparation required for psychedelic sessions, emphasizing the necessity of a safe and nurturing environment. She shares her wisdom on crafting personalized playlists and the thoughtful inclusion of personal comfort items, all aimed at enhancing the psilocybin journey. We also get a glimpse into Cate's recent feature in Golf Digest magazine and her pioneering research into microdosing for athletes, particularly golfers. She talks about the financial support available through the psilocybin access fund and the diverse backgrounds of her clients, who often return for multiple sessions to deepen their personal growth and healing. We explore the potential for life-altering experiences and the profound insights that can emerge from psilocybin journeys. We emphasize the critical importance of integration and ongoing work after the journey to ensure lasting effects. Cate's commitment to reducing unnecessary suffering through psychedelic substances is nothing short of inspiring. Here's a breakdown of some of the key moments in our conversation: 00:00 Get notifications and updates at ChristopherDorris.com/lists. 04:13 Exploring relationship between mental toughness and psilocybin. 09:25 3-month jungle training with indigenous healers. Traumatic. 10:59 Traumatic jungle experiences lead to psilocybin advocacy. 16:09 Prep sessions help inward journey with mushrooms. 16:54 Prep, journey, integration, arrival, product, options, taste. 22:17 Retreats in other countries can be challenging. 25:00 Psilocybin can be a helpful teacher. 27:17 Psilocybin experiences have profound and meaningful effects. 32:39 Curating playlists based on sound therapy expertise. 35:35 Submit info through contact form, social equity options. 37:38 Cate is an expert who commits fully.

    39 min
  3. TOUGH TALKS - E129 - Becoming Unstoppable: The Coach Linda Vollstedt Influence

    11/30/2023

    TOUGH TALKS - E129 - Becoming Unstoppable: The Coach Linda Vollstedt Influence

    How many people do you know who were inducted into TEN - yeah, you heard it - TEN different Halls of Fame?! How many coaches do you know who were the National Coach of the Year 8 times? Or won 6 National Championships? Coached the ONLY undefeated team in NCAA Division 1 Golf history? Is the PAC 12 Conference Coach of THE CENTURY?!?! And the list goes on. Well, you're about to meet her. Coach Linda Vollstedt is her name and I sat down recently with her to have an epic conversation during which she was remarkably generous with sharing her secrets to extreme success. And you might be surprised by some of the methodologies that she relied upon to win so damn much. LOVE is one of them. LOVE. And she preaches that unapologetically. When someone says to her, "Oh you used 'soft skills'?" she just points to the trophy case and says, "If those are soft, I guess." Don't miss this episode. 01:04 Introducing Linda Volstead 02:00 Linda's Achievements and Contributions 03:00 Memories and Influences 05:46 Discussing Mental Toughness 06:42 Preparing for the Magical Moment 10:31 Linda's Three Principles 13:42 The Importance of Energy and Vibes 21:10 Applying the Principles: A Case Study 24:02 The Power of Positive Energy 25:09 Personal Experiences and Reflections 27:49 Lunch with Linda and the Magic of Life 28:13 Understanding and Managing Your Energy 28:38 The Power of Positive Thinking and Energy Management 28:49 Channeling Passion and Energy in the Right Direction 29:47 The Importance of Positive Reinforcement 30:22 The Law of Attraction and the Power of Positivity 30:50 The Game We Love: Life Lessons from Golf 34:32 Creating a Positive Team Culture 37:11 The Power of Music in Elevating State and Managing Energy 40:44 Learning from Mentors and Influences 46:24 Closing Thoughts and Appreciation 47:05 The Undefeated Team: A Story of Triumph

    53 min
  4. TOUGH TALKS - E128 - The Role of Emotional Quotient (EQ) in Success with Dr. William Maxwell

    11/07/2023

    TOUGH TALKS - E128 - The Role of Emotional Quotient (EQ) in Success with Dr. William Maxwell

    I interviewed my dear friend and mentor, Dr. William Maxwell. We delved into EQ (emotional quotient) and its relevance in predicting success. We talked about the power of thinking and its impact on our lives. Dr. Maxwell shared how he initially became fascinated with thinking and the importance of addressing the falling IQ of children. The conversation touched on the potential for humans to evolve beyond racism and the role of travel in broadening perspectives. Dr. Maxwell emphasized the importance of family strength and the impact it has on a child's success, the idea that every child is a potential genius, and we explored ways to strengthen the mind, such as listening to great music and playing games. Dr. Maxwell shared the Inventive Quotient, a series of games he designed to enhance intelligence and problem-solving skills. And we wrapped our conversation with his belief in the evolution of the human race toward universal thinking. Here are some highlights and key takeaways you can expect: - How we use our mind shapes our lives, and by getting our mind right, everything else falls into place. - The falling IQ of children is a serious problem that needs to be addressed. - EQ (emotional quotient) is a better predictor of success than IQ (intelligence quotient). - Humans have the potential to evolve beyond racism and embrace universal thinking. - Family strength is the number one determinant of success, and the love and support from family play a vital role in a child's development. - Every child has the potential to be a genius, and it is important to create an environment that nurtures their talents and interests. - Listening to great music and playing games can strengthen the mind and enhance cognitive abilities. - The human race is evolving toward universal thinking and embracing the interconnectedness of all beings. Key Episode References: • "Thinking" - Edited by William Maxwell: A book on the expanding frontier of human thought • "The Biology of Love" by Humberto Maturana: A book on the biological and emotional basis of love and human relationships • "Culture Against Man" by Jules Henry: A book on the negative effects of American culture on individual and social well-being • "The Geography of Genius" by Eric Weiner: A book on the connection between place and creativity throughout history • "Super Parenting: Child Rearing for the New Millennium" by William Maxwell: A book on the best practices to nurture genius in children • "Physics of the Impossible" by Michio Kaku: A book on the scientific exploration of the world of phasers, force fields, teleportation, and time travel https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Physics_of_the_Impossible • "Beyond Einstein" by Michio Kaku: A book on the cosmic quest for the theory of the universe • Oneness University (India): A center for learning and enlightenment inspired by Sri Amma and Sri Bhagavan • Inventive Quotient Game - Available for purchase through American Creek Academy (under construction): A patented course in logical reasoning for children

    1h 6m
  5. TOUGH TALKS - E127 - Yoga, Music & Sales: GuruGanesha's Fusion of Calm Confidence and Professional

    10/23/2023

    TOUGH TALKS - E127 - Yoga, Music & Sales: GuruGanesha's Fusion of Calm Confidence and Professional

    In our latest installment of Tough Talks, we’re going ALL IN! with our awe-inspiring guest - the inimitable Guru Ganesha. Take a deep dive with us into the realm of business challenges and the critical need for innovative solutions. We talk about the dual commitment necessary in the sales process, compelling us to recognize if potential buyers are truly all-in for finding a solution. We’re also delving into the might of personal presence in achieving professional victory and how nurturing a serene confidence can revolutionize our existence. But hold tight, we’re just warming up. Guru Ganesha escorts us through his own life odyssey, from scrubbing dishes to recording in the Big Apple with a dream band, leading all the way to his spiritual enlightenment. Brace yourself for an enthralling dialogue that will motivate you to confront challenges head-on and discover your own inner sage. So let’s plunge right in and unearth the pearls of wisdom bestowed by Guru Ganesha in this illuminating episode of Tough Talks. More about GuruGanesha: Website: www.consciousselling.com LinkedIn Company or Organization Page: https://lnkd.in/g7BhGA9 LinkedIn Personal Profile: www.linkedin.com/in/guruganesha-khalsa-65987848

    1h 18m
  6. TOUGH TALKS - E126 - Resilience Beyond Measure: Jeff Nyce's Remarkable Journey with Terminal Illnesses

    10/10/2023

    TOUGH TALKS - E126 - Resilience Beyond Measure: Jeff Nyce's Remarkable Journey with Terminal Illnesses

    In this episode of Tough Talks, we have back with us a truly remarkable guest, Jeff Nyce, a retired SWAT team commander and a two-time survivor of terminal illnesses. Despite being diagnosed with his third terminal illness ALS also known as Lou Gehrig's disease, Jeff continues to choose to live and embrace a positive mindset as he keeps pushing forward. Jeff's story teaches us that Mental Toughness is about creating from all circumstances, even those most would consider tragic. He has overcome the odds twice, and is looking to make it three times now as he continues to choose to live every day. Due to his physical limitations, we have utilized artificial intelligence to recreate his voice and convey his powerful message. Join us as Jeff shares his insights on the mind-body relationship, the importance of exercise, and the factors that contribute to sustained health in the face of a devastating diagnosis. Prepare to be inspired by Jeff's incredible resilience and determination.  #ToughTalks #JeffNyce #SWATCommander #ChrisDorris #MentalToughnessCoach #FightingCancer #CardiacAmyloidosisSurvivor #ALSFighter #FailuresNotAnOption #MentalToughness #Inspiration #ALSAdvocate #AIForHumanity #VoiceCloning #MicahGuller #BIGGIE #DrSpock#AdamSandler#SurvivingTerminalDiagnosis #ThrivingInAdversity

    25 min
  7. TOUGH TALKS - E125 - Executing With "Extreme Prejudice" (it's not what you think) with Gary Weiss

    07/12/2023

    TOUGH TALKS - E125 - Executing With "Extreme Prejudice" (it's not what you think) with Gary Weiss

    What's the most important trait/skill of a CEO? Why is it so much more important to hire the RIGHT person vs the "best" person for the job? What does it mean to not let perfection be the enemy of good? How does a corporate culture empower its people to feel safe enough to make mistakes? What does it mean to "execute with extreme prejudice"? These are some of the questions we explore with our guest and CEO of the technical education industry leader Career Certified, Gary Weiss. Gary is a remarkable leader who understands what most leaders do not regarding how to get the most out of your people. "Enable and Empower" is one of his mottos - values, actually. He knows how to build and sustain a culture characterized by trust (can you confirm that, X-Man?). He creates a space where great thinking is nurtured. All of that has a lot to do with why his company is absolutely demolishing it in their industry. And he's got Philly roots! And at the very end of our dialog, we discuss something spectacular that Gary and his wife, Jodi, are doing together to help reduce the amount of unnecessary human suffering in their community. Totally heartwarming!

    1h 7m
  8. TOUGH TALKS - E124 - Vision and Balls! with Siavash Fashi

    06/21/2023

    TOUGH TALKS - E124 - Vision and Balls! with Siavash Fashi

    I'm so thrilled to be able to introduce you to an absolute Powerhouse (in every way). His name is Siavash Fashi. He's the owner of the enormously successful small gym (very very small, and apparently wonderfully high-vibe and chaotic!) in Culver City, CA named SixPax Gym.Siavash left Iran, where bodybuilding was illegal and where he dealt with cancer, poverty, and political turmoil. After seven years as a refugee in England and a year in a U.S. prison for using a fake passport, he headed to SoCal to achieve his dreams. With nothing to his name except grit and determination, he was able to build one of the most profitable small gyms in the country.In our Tough Talks conversation today, we only get through 1/3 of the originally intended content because his story is SO compelling and chock-full of Mental Toughness GOLD.This guy is a Master Mental Coach and he doesn't even know it!His story is mesmerizing. Prepare to be in rapture and to be mind-blown by this guy who totally gets the power of using your mind intelligently to create excellence from suffering!And he JUST published his first book, Small Gym, Big Results! You can find it here:

    1h 11m
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About

Most of us never learned how to train our brains, which is why most of us needlessly settle, struggle and worse – suffer. My name is Chris Dorris and I want to make Brain Training mainstream. This is my series TOUGH TALKS: Conversations on Mental Toughness. I’m interviewing badasses from all walks of life, on what Mental Toughness means to them, and their unique approaches to strengthening their mind. For videos, visit http://bit.ly/tough-talks

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