The re.think Podcast

Dr. David Zierk

re.think with Dr. David Zierk is the podcast that invites you to challenge the hidden rules shaping your mind and relationships. Through real stories, psychological insights, and powerful tools, Dr. Zierk — clinical psychologist, author of Mind Rules, and relationship strategist — guides you to reframe conflict as a gateway to authentic connection. Because no two people see the world the same way, learning to “re.think” is essential for navigating the messy, beautiful complexity of being human. Whether you’re a leader, a thinker, or simply someone tired of unbreakable habits and unresolved tension, this show will give you fresh perspective and practical strategies for lasting change. Discover how Relationship Intelligence can transform your toughest interactions into your greatest breakthroughs — and how understanding the rules your mind follows might just set you free.

  1. 3D AGO

    The Anger Algorithm: The Leader's Secret Weapon for High-Stakes Moments

    Great leaders aren't immune to anger; they're just better equipped to handle it. Dr. David Zierk reveals why unchecked anger is silently eroding your influence, your team's trust, and your most important relationships. Using his Anger Algorithm framework, Dr. Z gives leaders a repeatable system to stay grounded under pressure, turn tension into trust, and lead with intention—not reaction. Highlights → Why anger is every leader's hidden liability and how it quietly damages credibility, team culture, and connection.  → The Anger Algorithm: a practical Roadmap, Compass, and Fuel Gauge to help leaders decode conflict before it derails decisions and relationships.  → A powerful three-question reset that transforms reactive leadership moments into opportunities for deeper trust and lasting influence. Follow Dr. David Zierk LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-zierk-psyd-ab99302/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdavidzierk/  Website: www.davidzierk.com   Subscribe to his re.fresh newsletter: www.davidzierk.com/resources/newsletter/    About Dr. David Zierk:   With a substantive background in psychological work with individuals and teams, Dr. Zierk enjoys bringing his experience to the stage and corporate clients by providing them with the tools and language necessary for effective outcomes. Most recently, he’s published a book called Mind Rules: Who’s In Control—You or Your Mind? Dr. Zierk is a graduate of the University of Denver with a Master of Arts and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. He earned his Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology at the University of Colorado. He’s affiliated with the American Psychological Association, American Psychotherapy Association, Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, and National Academy of Neuropsychology. He currently resides in Denver, Colorado, with his wife and has three children. When he’s not on stage or working with a team, David loves to cycle in the mountains.   Follow, rate, and review Dr. Z on Apple and Spotify! If you love Dr. Zierk’s episodes, here's how to follow her so you never miss one! For Apple, click the “Follow” button at the top of the page on the right.  For Spotify, click the “Follow” button below Dr. David Zierk’s show tile.

    19 min
  2. FEB 10

    Episode #20: Quiet Leadership: How Presence Beats Power in a Noisy World

    Dr. David Zierk challenges the idea that strong leadership must be loud. In a culture driven by urgency, dominance, and performance, Dr. Z introduces quiet leadership, a grounded, intentional approach built on presence, reflection, and purpose. Using the Q.U.I.E.T. framework and memorable real-life examples, this episode shows how leaders can lower the volume, raise trust, and create cultures people want to stay in.   Highlights   → The difference between leading with the whip versus pulling up a chair. → The Q.U.I.E.T. framework: quality, uniqueness, introspection, energy, and tranquil focus. → Why quiet leadership isn’t passive; it’s purposeful, magnetic, and effective.   Follow Dr. David Zierk   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-zierk-psyd-ab99302/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdavidzierk/  Website: www.davidzierk.com   Subscribe to his re.fresh newsletter: www.davidzierk.com/resources/newsletter/    About Dr. David Zierk:   With a substantive background in psychological work with individuals and teams, Dr. Zierk enjoys bringing his experience to the stage and corporate clients by providing them with the tools and language necessary for effective outcomes. Most recently, he’s published a book called Mind Rules: Who’s In Control—You or Your Mind? Dr. Zierk is a graduate of the University of Denver with a Master of Arts and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. He earned his Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology at the University of Colorado. He’s affiliated with the American Psychological Association, American Psychotherapy Association, Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, and National Academy of Neuropsychology. He currently resides in Denver, Colorado, with his wife and has three children. When he’s not on stage or working with a team, David loves to cycle in the mountains.   Follow, rate, and review Dr. Z on Apple and Spotify!   If you love Dr. Zierk’s episodes, here's how to follow her so you never miss one!   For Apple, click the “Follow” button at the top of the page on the right.  For Spotify, click the “Follow” button below Dr. David Zierk’s show tile.

    23 min
  3. FEB 3

    Relational Gravity: How to Stop Getting Pulled Into Roles You’ve Outgrown

    Why do you keep ending up in the same role—at work, at home, everywhere? In Episode 19 of the re.think Podcast, Dr. David Zierk introduces relational gravity: the invisible pull that locks us into familiar patterns and expectations. David breaks down how old roles form, why they persist, and what it takes to step out of orbit. With practical examples and a clear four-step framework, this episode helps you reclaim choice, identity, and connection—without blowing up your relationships. Highlights → Why being “the fixer,” “the calm one,” or “the hero” can quietly drain you. → The four-step process to recognize, rethink, share, and grow beyond old roles → A simple sentence that opens the door to real relational change   Follow Dr. David Zierk   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-zierk-psyd-ab99302/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdavidzierk/  Website: www.davidzierk.com   Subscribe to his re.fresh newsletter: www.davidzierk.com/resources/newsletter/    About Dr. David Zierk:   With a substantive background in psychological work with individuals and teams, Dr. Zierk enjoys bringing his experience to the stage and corporate clients by providing them with the tools and language necessary for effective outcomes. Most recently, he’s published a book called Mind Rules: Who’s In Control—You or Your Mind? Dr. Zierk is a graduate of the University of Denver with a Master of Arts and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. He earned his Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology at the University of Colorado. He’s affiliated with the American Psychological Association, American Psychotherapy Association, Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, and National Academy of Neuropsychology. He currently resides in Denver, Colorado, with his wife, Carol, and has three children. When he’s not on stage or working with a team, David loves to cycle in the mountains.   Follow, rate, and review Dr. Z on Apple and Spotify!   If you love Dr. Zierk’s episodes, here's how to follow her so you never miss one!   For Apple, click the “Follow” button at the top of the page on the right.  For Spotify, click the “Follow” button below Dr. David Zierk’s show tile.

    17 min
  4. JAN 13

    Mutuality: 5 Ways to Build Trust

    Trust isn’t soft—it’s structural. In this episode, Dr. David Zierk breaks down how trust forms, fractures, and rebuilds through what he calls relational reliability. Using his T-R-U-S-T framework—transparency, responsibility, unity, sincerity, and time—he shows why trust is “square one” for every relationship, whether at home or at work. Through everyday examples, he reveals why ruptures hurt so much, how safety shapes connection, and what it really takes to repair what’s been broken. If you’ve ever struggled to trust again—or to earn it—this episode gives you a clear path back to steady ground and stronger bonds.   Episode highlights:   → Trust is the starting line for every healthy relationship and every true connection. → The T-R-U-S-T framework. → Relational reliability—showing up consistently—rebuilds safety faster than any apology.   Follow Dr. David Zierk   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-zierk-psyd-ab99302/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdavidzierk/  Website: www.davidzierk.com   Subscribe to his re.fresh newsletter: www.davidzierk.com/resources/newsletter/    About Dr. David Zierk:   With a substantive background in psychological work with individuals and teams, Dr. Zierk enjoys bringing his experience to the stage and corporate clients by providing them with the tools and language necessary for effective outcomes. Most recently, he’s published a book called Mind Rules: Who’s In Control—You or Your Mind? Dr. Zierk is a graduate of the University of Denver with a Master of Arts and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. He earned his Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology at the University of Colorado. He’s affiliated with the American Psychological Association, American Psychotherapy Association, Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, and National Academy of Neuropsychology. He currently resides in Denver, Colorado, with his wife and has three children. When he’s not on stage or working with a team, David loves to cycle in the mountains with his wife, Carol.   Follow, rate, and review Dr. Z on Apple and Spotify!   If you love Dr. Zierk’s episodes, here's how to follow her so you never miss one!   For Apple, click the “Follow” button at the top of the page on the right.  For Spotify, click the “Follow” button below Dr. David Zierk’s show tile.

    30 min
  5. 12/30/2025

    Thin Ice: Why Is Vulnerability So Tricky to Navigate?

    We’ve all felt it—the moment your smile stays on, but your stomach drops. In this episode, David unpacks what it means to be on emotional thin ice: Those fragile seconds when insecurity spikes, clarity slips, and old patterns take the wheel. Using his I-C-E model—your Inner Connection to Everything—he explains why these shaky moments matter and how awareness, acknowledgment, analysis, and adaptation guide you back to solid ground. You’ll learn how to spot the cracks, name what’s happening, and choose connection over defense. If you’ve ever felt off balance, this one brings you back to center.   Episode highlights:   → Feeling “on thin ice” signals a loss of your inner connection to confidence and clarity. → Insecurity spikes when old internal threats get triggered beneath the surface. → Four moves—awareness, acknowledgment, analysis, and adaptation—help you shift from reaction to reconnection.   Follow Dr. David Zierk   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-zierk-psyd-ab99302/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdavidzierk/  Website: www.davidzierk.com   Subscribe to his re.fresh newsletter: www.davidzierk.com/resources/newsletter/    About Dr. David Zierk:   With a substantive background in psychological work with individuals and teams, Dr. Zierk enjoys bringing his experience to the stage and corporate clients by providing them with the tools and language necessary for effective outcomes. Most recently, he’s published a book called Mind Rules: Who’s In Control—You or Your Mind? Dr. Zierk is a graduate of the University of Denver with a Master of Arts and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. He earned his Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology at the University of Colorado. He’s affiliated with the American Psychological Association, American Psychotherapy Association, Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, and National Academy of Neuropsychology. He currently resides in Denver, Colorado, with his wife and has three children. When he’s not on stage or working with a team, David loves to cycle in the mountains with his wife, Carol.   Follow, rate, and review Dr. Z on Apple and Spotify!   If you love Dr. Zierk’s episodes, here's how to follow her so you never miss one!   For Apple, click the “Follow” button at the top of the page on the right.  For Spotify, click the “Follow” button below Dr. David Zierk’s show tile.

    25 min
  6. 12/23/2025

    Chart Your Next Move: The COURSE Method for Uncertain Moments

    Feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or foggy about your next step? Dr. David Zierk introduces the COURSE Method—a six-step framework for transforming uncertainty into confident progress. From career shifts to relationship decisions to organizational change, this episode gives leaders a repeatable mental model they can rely on when clarity is nowhere in sight. Highlights → The six letters (C-O-U-R-S-E) that convert confusion into momentum. → How dual reflection improves decisions and relationships. → Why you don’t need a full plan—just a dependable process. Follow Dr. David Zierk   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-zierk-psyd-ab99302/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdavidzierk/  Website: www.davidzierk.com   Subscribe to his re.fresh newsletter: www.davidzierk.com/resources/newsletter/    About Dr. David Zierk:   With a substantive background in psychological work with individuals and teams, Dr. Zierk enjoys bringing his experience to the stage and corporate clients by providing them with the tools and language necessary for effective outcomes. Most recently, he’s published a book called Mind Rules: Who’s In Control—You or Your Mind? Dr. Zierk is a graduate of the University of Denver with a Master of Arts and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. He earned his Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology at the University of Colorado. He’s affiliated with the American Psychological Association, American Psychotherapy Association, Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, and National Academy of Neuropsychology. He currently resides in Denver, Colorado, with his wife and has three children. When he’s not on stage or working with a team, David loves to cycle in the mountains with his wife, Carol.   Follow, rate, and review Dr. Z on Apple and Spotify!   If you love Dr. Zierk’s episodes, here's how to follow her so you never miss one!   For Apple, click the “Follow” button at the top of the page on the right.  For Spotify, click the “Follow” button below Dr. David Zierk’s show tile.

    15 min
  7. 12/16/2025

    Leaders: Shift from reacting to relating to build trust

    Conflict isn’t just a clash between two people—it’s the collision of two histories. In this episode, Dr. David Zierk breaks down his Conflict Navigation Roadmap, a practical way to understand your internal tug-of-war before you ever speak a word. Leaders who master this shift—from reacting to relating—strengthen trust, connection, and clarity in every room they’re in. Highlights → Why conflict rarely “resolves” and what it actually reveals. → The real trigger you’re responding to (Hint: it’s not the moment, it’s the meaning).   Follow Dr. David Zierk LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-zierk-psyd-ab99302/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdavidzierk/  Website: www.davidzierk.com   Subscribe to his re.fresh newsletter: www.davidzierk.com/resources/newsletter/    About Dr. David Zierk:   With a substantive background in psychological work with individuals and teams, Dr. Zierk enjoys bringing his experience to the stage and corporate clients by providing them with the tools and language necessary for effective outcomes. Most recently, he’s published a book called Mind Rules: Who’s In Control—You or Your Mind? Dr. Zierk is a graduate of the University of Denver with a Master of Arts and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. He earned his Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology at the University of Colorado. He’s affiliated with the American Psychological Association, American Psychotherapy Association, Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, and National Academy of Neuropsychology. He currently resides in Denver, Colorado, with his wife and has three children. When he’s not on stage or working with a team, David loves to cycle in the mountains with his wife, Carol.   Follow, rate, and review Dr. Z on Apple and Spotify! If you love Dr. Zierk’s episodes, here's how to follow her so you never miss one! For Apple, click the “Follow” button at the top of the page on the right.  For Spotify, click the “Follow” button below Dr. David Zierk’s show tile.

    19 min
  8. 12/02/2025

    Your Mindset: The Backstage Pass to How You Show Up

    Some people meet setbacks with tension; others meet them with perspective. Why? In this episode, David explores the quiet power of mindset—the lens that shapes how you interpret every delay, disappointment, and disruption. Drawing from psychology and his Mind Rules framework, he breaks down three transformational “mindset muscles”: intentionality, curiosity, and flexibility. You’ll learn why old beliefs rush back at lightning speed, how reframing shifts you from judgment to learning, and how small mindset choices reshape connection at home and at work. If you’re tired of reacting on autopilot, this episode shows you how to rethink the lens you’re looking through—and how a single shift can change everything. Episode Highlights:  → Your mindset is the lens that determines whether a setback drains you or reframes you. → Intentionality, curiosity, and flexibility act as “mindset muscles” that shift you from reacting to responding. → Reframing opens the door from judgment to learning—and transforms how you connect under pressure.   Follow Dr. David Zierk LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-zierk-psyd-ab99302/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdavidzierk/  Website: www.davidzierk.com   Subscribe to his re.fresh newsletter: www.davidzierk.com/resources/newsletter/    About Dr. David Zierk: With a substantive background in psychological work with individuals and teams, Dr. Zierk enjoys bringing his experience to the stage and corporate clients by providing them with the tools and language necessary for effective outcomes. Most recently, he’s published a book called Mind Rules: Who’s In Control—You or Your Mind? Dr. Zierk is a graduate of the University of Denver with a Master of Arts and a Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. He earned his Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology at the University of Colorado. He’s affiliated with the American Psychological Association, American Psychotherapy Association, Association of Family and Conciliation Courts, and National Academy of Neuropsychology. He currently resides in Denver, Colorado, with his wife and has three children. When he’s not on stage or working with a team, David loves to cycle in the mountains with his wife, Carol.   Follow, rate, and review Dr. Z on Apple and Spotify!   If you love Dr. Zierk’s episodes, here's how to follow her so you never miss one!   For Apple, click the “Follow” button at the top of the page on the right.  For Spotify, click the “Follow” button below Dr. David Zierk’s show tile.

    26 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

re.think with Dr. David Zierk is the podcast that invites you to challenge the hidden rules shaping your mind and relationships. Through real stories, psychological insights, and powerful tools, Dr. Zierk — clinical psychologist, author of Mind Rules, and relationship strategist — guides you to reframe conflict as a gateway to authentic connection. Because no two people see the world the same way, learning to “re.think” is essential for navigating the messy, beautiful complexity of being human. Whether you’re a leader, a thinker, or simply someone tired of unbreakable habits and unresolved tension, this show will give you fresh perspective and practical strategies for lasting change. Discover how Relationship Intelligence can transform your toughest interactions into your greatest breakthroughs — and how understanding the rules your mind follows might just set you free.