The Nick Standlea Podcast

Nick Standlea
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The Nick Standlea Podcast

Topics include: Learning: growth mindset, accelerated retention, flow, positive psychology, awareness, mindfulness, the ”idiot phase,” intrinsic motivation, eudemonia, and building true expertise. Health: fitness, nutrition, personalized medicine, meditation, longevity, athletic excellence, empathy, and love. Wealth: creating businesses, passive income, investing, time value, entrepreneurship, negotiation, and risk. Education: higher education, college admissions, and lifelong learning. Nick Standlea is a former Research Associate at the Quality of Life Research Center where he got to work for his hero and mentor, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (author of Flow). He is the founder of Test Prep Gurus, a test prep and education consulting firm based in Newport Beach, that works with students throughout Southern California, across the United States, and twelve other countries. Nick earned a perfect score on the SAT but believes a standardized test reveals little about an individual outside of showing colleges how hard he or she is willing to work on an exam in order to achieve their future goals.

  1. OCT 28

    Colin Hanks: "I'll be acting until I die" | "You have to lean into discomfort" | "Allow the story to reveal itself"

    Actor and storyteller Colin Hanks dives deep into his lifelong passion for acting and his unique approach to creativity.  From his early days in the industry to his latest project, the highly anticipated Nobody sequel with Bob Odenkirk, Colin opens up about what keeps him inspired and committed to his craft.  Colin’s journey is one of relentless dedication, humor, and humility. Tune in to hear his thoughts on the challenges of creative work, the influence of mentors, and why he plans to keep acting "until I die."   💡 Highlights:Working with Bob Odenkirk on Nobody 2The journey of a lifelong actor and storytellerThe importance of curiosity and asking questionsColin’s approach to documentary filmmaking and storytellingBalancing fame, family, and passion for creative work   🔔 Subscribe for more in-depth conversations with inspiring creators and thought leaders on The Nick Standlea Show   Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsor: Test Prep Gurus:https://www.prepgurus.com@TestPrepGurushttps://www.instagram.com/testprepgurus/ EPISODE LINKS:Nobody 2 (2025): https://www.imdb.com/title/tt28996126/ INSTAGRAM: - Host Nick Standlea: @NickStandlea PODCAST INFO:- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheNickStandleaShow - Podcast website: https://nickshow.podbean.com/ - Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nick-standlea-podcast/id1700331903 - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0YqBBneFsKtQ6Y0ArP5CXJ - RSS: https://feed.podbean.com/nickshow/feed.xml   SUPPORT & CONNECT:- Check out the sponsors above, it's the best way to support this podcast. - Support on Patreon: (coming soon) - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickstandlea/ - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-standlea-43732573/ - Medium: https://medium.com/authority-magazine/nick-standlea-of-test-prep-gurus-how-to-take-your-company-from-good-to-great-491ef2c53fb9 Timestamps: 0:00 - Colin Hanks0:45 - Colin’s advice on creativity2:50 - Recent projects and creative approach8:32 - Insights on collecting experiences and stories12:38 - Colin discusses the value of sports and community16:17 - Reflections on history and storytelling22:13 - Key lessons from career experiences27:26 - Mentors and advice on handling criticism30:55 - Overcoming creative crutches34:28 - Nobody 2 staring Bob Odenkirk and Colin Hanks41:17 - Growth through learning and adapting47:03 - Balancing family and career51:30 - Navigating the ups and downs of fame55:27 - Colin’s love for English football1:00:00 - Parallels between sports and acting1:03:11 - Small steps in achieving goals Ask questions.Don’t accept the status quo.Be curious.

    1h 4m

  2. OCT 21

    Seth Godin: "Most People are Playing Games That Aren't Worth Winning" | "Education Right Now is About Compliance, Not Learning"

    Seth Godin, bestselling author, entrepreneur, and thought leader, joins Nick to discuss his new book "This is Strategy." Seth shares powerful insights on how to choose the right "games" in life, rethinking education, and leveraging strategy for long-term success. We also explore the role of systems, storytelling, and even placebos in personal and professional growth. If you're looking to rethink how you approach work, life, and leadership, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom. 🔗 Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction00:30 - Strategy and Becoming04:21 - Education vs. Learning07:01 - Changing Systems09:41 - Coordinated Action11:41 - Perspective on the World13:11 - Choosing the Right Games18:21 - Preparing for Success22:01 - The Importance of Storytelling24:31 - Placebos and Nocebos28:01 - Leveraging Systems for Change30:01 - Leading with Purpose Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell! Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsor: Test Prep Gurus:https://www.prepgurus.com@TestPrepGurushttps://www.instagram.com/testprepgurus/ EPISODE LINKS:This is Strategy by Seth Godin: https://amzn.to/4eMapcXwww.SethGodin.com INSTAGRAM: - Host Nick Standlea: @NickStandlea PODCAST INFO:- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheNickStandleaShow - Podcast website: https://nickshow.podbean.com/ - Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nick-standlea-podcast/id1700331903 - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0YqBBneFsKtQ6Y0ArP5CXJ - RSS: https://feed.podbean.com/nickshow/feed.xml   SUPPORT & CONNECT:- Check out the sponsors above, it's the best way to support this podcast. - Support on Patreon: (coming soon) - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickstandlea/ - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-standlea-43732573/ - Medium: https://medium.com/authority-magazine/nick-standlea-of-test-prep-gurus-how-to-take-your-company-from-good-to-great-491ef2c53fb9   Ask questions.Don’t accept the status quo.Be curious.

    43 min

  3. SEP 24

    How to Find Flow and Unlock Creativity | Dr. Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi | "Your sense of time and self disappear"

    Explore the concept of 'flow'—the state of optimal experience. The book 'Flow' was written by Dr. Mike Csikszentmihalyi in 1990. I worked for Dr. Mike for six years as a research associate (yes, I know he signed his books 'Mihaly,' but he always insisted I call him 'Mike') . He was an amazing mentor and friend and he is greatly missed. In honor of his birthday, I cleaned up the audio on a lecture he delivered on flow and added some visuals. Dive Deeper:  Discover the attributes of the flow state, such as intense focus, a sense of clarity, and the merging of action and awareness. Understand how deep engagement can lead to enhanced happiness and productivity. Learn about the benefits of being in flow, including increased creativity, better performance, and greater overall satisfaction in life.   Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction: Childhood and War 00:51 Discovering Psychology by Chance 01:57 The Pursuit of Happiness 02:42 Understanding Creative Ecstasy 06:13 The Flow Experience 08:15 Measuring Flow in Everyday Life 08:45 Challenges and Skills: Pathways to Flow 10:12 Addressing Apathy and Enhancing Flow   Books: I'd recommend the book "Finding Flow" over the book "Flow" for anyone who is new to his work!  Finding Flow: The Psychology of Engagement with Everyday Life https://amzn.to/4gr1O0B Flow: The Classic Work on How to Achieve Happiness: https://amzn.to/3XyKHkD Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsor: Test Prep Gurus:https://www.prepgurus.com@TestPrepGurushttps://www.instagram.com/testprepgurus/   INSTAGRAM: - Host Nick Standlea: @NickStandlea PODCAST INFO:- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheNickStandleaShow - Podcast website: https://nickshow.podbean.com/ - Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nick-standlea-podcast/id1700331903 - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0YqBBneFsKtQ6Y0ArP5CXJ - RSS: https://feed.podbean.com/nickshow/feed.xml   SUPPORT & CONNECT:- Check out the sponsors above, it's the best way to support this podcast. - Support on Patreon: (coming soon) - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickstandlea/ - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-standlea-43732573/ - Medium: https://medium.com/authority-magazine/nick-standlea-of-test-prep-gurus-how-to-take-your-company-from-good-to-great-491ef2c53fb9   Ask questions.Don’t accept the status quo.Be curious. #flow #Csikszentmihalyi #findingflow  @TheNickStandleaShow  #testprepgurus

    11 min

  4. SEP 19

    "Make It Stick: The Science of Effective Learning" | "Self-testing is key" | Mark McDaniel & "Roddy" Roediger III

    Students often rely on ineffective study methods such as rereading and highlighting. However, these methods do not lead to deep understanding and long-term retention of information.  One effective strategy is retrieval practice, which involves testing oneself on the material to actively engage with it and identify areas of weakness. Self-testing helps students recognize what they know and what they need to review. Another important technique is interleaving or mixing up different types of practice, which better simulates real-world situations and helps students recognize cues and apply strategies accordingly. These strategies are applicable not only to academics but also to sports and other domains.  The conversation explores the concept of desirable difficulties and the importance of struggle in learning. It discusses the benefits of interleaving and mixed practice over blocked practice, as well as the challenges of implementing these strategies in the classroom. The conversation also touches on the need for objective feedback and the role of long-term retention in effective learning.  The potential for transforming the education system is discussed, with examples of schools and teachers successfully implementing these techniques. The conversation covers various topics related to effective learning, including the importance of testing and retrieval practice, the impact of AI on the legal profession, the role of test anxiety, the myth of learning styles, and the need for evidence-based instructional techniques.  The guests also discuss the positive impact of using data to track progress and the importance of experimentation and objective feedback in improving learning outcomes. Takeaways:* Rereading and highlighting are ineffective study methods that lead to familiarity but not deep understanding.* Retrieval practice, such as self-testing, helps students actively engage with the material and identify areas of weakness.* Interleaving or mixing up different types of practice is more effective than massed practice for long-term learning and real-world application.* These strategies are applicable not only to academics but also to sports and other domains. Desirable difficulties, such as interleaving and mixed practice, can lead to better long-term retention and understanding of material.* Implementing these strategies in the classroom can be challenging, as it requires a shift in teaching and learning approaches.* Objective feedback is crucial for students to recognize the effectiveness of these techniques.* The education system needs to prioritize long-term retention and understanding over short-term memorization and grades.* Examples of schools and teachers successfully implementing these techniques demonstrate their effectiveness and potential for transforming education. Testing and retrieval practice are essential for effective learning.* Test anxiety can be reduced through frequent testing and familiarization with the testing format.* Learning styles have no scientific evidence to support their effectiveness.* Data-driven learning and objective feedback are crucial for tracking progress and improving learning outcomes.* Experimentation and evidence-based practices are key to enhancing learning effectiveness. Sound Bites:"The typical student chooses to read material, highlight it, underline it, then reread it before the exam. And there's so many better ways they could be spending their time.""Retrieval practice is just simply either the teacher gives you a test or you test yourself and you start practicing getting information out of memory.""Retrieval practice produces better long-term memory, increases accuracy of knowing what you know and don't know, and increases efficiency of learning material you couldn't retrieve.""If you want people to pass the bar exam, you want them testing themselves and you testing them." To support this show please share this episode, subscribe, and visit our sponsor: Test Prep Gurus:h

    1h 23m

  5. SEP 4

    The Weight of Depression: Jason Magee’s Story of Struggle and Hope

    In today's episode, I sit down with Jason Magee, who shares his 15-year struggle with depression and weight loss, and then takes his first dose of a weight loss drug live on air. Jason, once an extremely fit college soccer player, now faces daily challenges that take a toll on his health and self-worth. He opens up about his emotional battles and how they have fueled a cycle of binge eating and self-loathing. Jason candidly discusses his turning point: the decision to take Wegovy, a GLP-1 inhibitor, to aid in his weight loss and mental health journey. We delve into his past, including his athletic days, his relationship with food, and the impact of depression on his life. Jason reveals the mental and physical obstacles he faces, from struggling with body image to dealing with the social stigma of obesity. Join us as we explore Jason's journey, the struggles, and the hope that comes with taking the first step towards change. We will follow up in three to six months to see how things are progressing on his weight loss journey. This episode is a raw and honest conversation about the complexities of mental health and obesity, and the courage it takes to seek change.   ⚠️ Content Warning: This episode includes a discussion of suicidal thoughts and personal struggles with depression. These topics are shared with the intent of helping others who may be experiencing similar challenges. If you or someone you know is struggling with suicidal thoughts, please reach out for support. Help is available 24/7 through the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 988 or visit 988lifeline.org. You are not alone. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: https://988lifeline.org/ Mental Health Resources:National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): NAMI: https://www.nami.org/Therapy Finder (Psychology Today): Find a Therapist: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists Please support  @TheNickStandleaShow  by checking out our sponsors: Test Prep Gurus:https://www.prepgurus.com@TestPrepGurus Divine Saunas:https://divine-saunas.sjv.io/Wq1WZX  Chase Reserve Card: Earn 75,000 bonus points (worth $1,125 toward travel) Chase: https://www.referyourchasecard.com/19n/IPM8IDLRYA EPISODE LINKS:- Host, Nick Standlea, IG: @NickStandlea- Guest, Jason Magee, IG: @Jasontmagee27  PODCAST INFO:- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheNickStandleaShow - Podcast website: https://nickshow.podbean.com/ - Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nick-standlea-podcast/id1700331903 - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0YqBBneFsKtQ6Y0ArP5CXJ - RSS: https://feed.podbean.com/nickshow/feed.xml #MentalHealthAwareness #OvercomingObesity #PersonalTransformation #DepressionSupport#BingeEatingRecovery #SelfWorth #Inspiration #BeCurious #podcast #becurious #TheNickStandleaShow #pod Ask questions.Don’t accept the status quo.Be curious.

    1 hr

  6. AUG 27

    The Age Dilemma: Regulating Social Media for Kids

    Why does regulating social media for kids remain an unresolved challenge? This episode discusses the significant age gap in congressional leadership, highlighting the advanced ages of key figures like Chuck Grassley and Dianne Feinstein, and questions their ability to grasp modern digital dilemmas. The rant covers the alarming spread of misinformation on social media, as demonstrated by an MIT study showing that lies spread six times faster than the truth. The episode also examines the role of algorithms in promoting divisive and false content, contributing to the rising levels of anxiety, depression, and self-harm among young people. I critique the influence of lobbying efforts by tech giants like Meta, led by Mark Zuckerberg, in preventing regulatory measures. Despite these challenges, the episode ends on a hopeful note, urging collective action to protect children from the adverse effects of unregulated social media, drawing parallels to past successful public health and safety campaigns. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the intersection of technology, politics, and the well-being of our youth, and join the call to action for meaningful change.

    4 min

  7. AUG 21

    The Nick Standlea Show: Conversations That Inspire

    If you like to ask questions, dive beneath the surface, and learn about fascinating individuals, you’ve found your home. Join Nick Standlea for long-form conversations with authors, entrepreneurs, creators, athletes, scientists, entertainers, and other brilliant guest experts. You can follow the show on Instagram: @NickStandlea A little bit about Nick: He earned a perfect score on the SAT, but thinks standardized tests are overrated. He won grants to teach kids to surf in China, explore caves in Tibet, study business at the University of Oxford, and explore Art History in Italy. Nick is a former Research Associate at the Quality of Life Research Center where he studied creativity, learning, and flow under his mentor, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi. He founded numerous companies, including Test Prep Gurus, a test prep and education consulting firm based in Newport Beach, California that works with students across the United States, and more than a dozen other countries. Nick is a writer, speaker, entrepreneur, consultant, and podcaster. Ask questions. Don’t accept the status quo. Be curious.

    1 min

  8. AUG 5

    Thomas Perry, Author of The Old Man | "She does the most important thing -- she tells me the truth"

    Delve into the creative world of Thomas Perry, the bestselling author behind 31 novels, including the "Jane Whitefield" series and "The Old Man," which inspired the hit TV show starring Jeff Bridges and John Lithgow. Perry shares intriguing insights into his writing process, the importance of originality, and the challenge of keeping his stories fresh and engaging. We explore the genesis of "The Old Man" and its adaptation into a television series, highlighting Perry's experiences with the cast and crew. Perry also reflects on his transition from TV writing to novel writing, offering valuable advice for aspiring authors navigating today's complex publishing landscape. Don't miss this exclusive look at Perry's latest project, "Pro Bono," where a teenager uncovers his stepfather's deceitful schemes, setting the stage for a thrilling narrative about justice and retribution. Tune in for an enlightening conversation filled with storytelling wisdom and inspiration. Please support this podcast by checking out our sponsors: Test Prep Gurus:https://www.prepgurus.com@TestPrepGurus Divine Saunas:https://divine-saunas.sjv.io/Wq1WZX  Chase Reserve Card: Earn 75,000 bonus points (worth $1,125 toward travel) Chase: https://www.referyourchasecard.com/19n/IPM8IDLRYA EPISODE LINKS:Jane Whitefield (9-book series): https://amzn.to/4fy5KMC The Old Man: https://amzn.to/4fw2u47 - Host, Nick Standlea: @NickStandlea- Guest, Thomas Perry: www.thomasperryauthor.com PODCAST INFO:- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheNickStandleaShow - Podcast website: https://nickshow.podbean.com/ - Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nick-standlea-podcast/id1700331903 - Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0YqBBneFsKtQ6Y0ArP5CXJ - RSS: https://feed.podbean.com/nickshow/feed.xml Ask questions.Don’t accept the status quo.Be curious.

    51 min
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Trailers

5
out of 5
14 Ratings

About

Topics include: Learning: growth mindset, accelerated retention, flow, positive psychology, awareness, mindfulness, the ”idiot phase,” intrinsic motivation, eudemonia, and building true expertise. Health: fitness, nutrition, personalized medicine, meditation, longevity, athletic excellence, empathy, and love. Wealth: creating businesses, passive income, investing, time value, entrepreneurship, negotiation, and risk. Education: higher education, college admissions, and lifelong learning. Nick Standlea is a former Research Associate at the Quality of Life Research Center where he got to work for his hero and mentor, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi (author of Flow). He is the founder of Test Prep Gurus, a test prep and education consulting firm based in Newport Beach, that works with students throughout Southern California, across the United States, and twelve other countries. Nick earned a perfect score on the SAT but believes a standardized test reveals little about an individual outside of showing colleges how hard he or she is willing to work on an exam in order to achieve their future goals.

Information

  • Creator
    Nick Standlea
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2024
  • Episodes
    29
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2023 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Nick Standlea Podcast

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