The Positive Persistence Podcast with Ian Bowen

Ian Bowen
  • 5.0 (16)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to "Positive Persistence, with Ian Bowen," the podcast that will ignite your spirit and fuel your journey to greatness! I'm Ian Bowen, and I'm here to tell you stories of ordinary people who've conquered extraordinary challenges. If you're ready to unleash your potential and leave an indelible mark on the world, you're in the right place. Each week, we'll dive deep into tales of triumph that will inspire you to overcome your obstacles and reach new heights. But this isn't just a podcast – it's a movement. By joining our "Positive Persistence" family, you're taking the first step towards activating your highest potential and living the life you truly deserve. After each episode, don't keep this inspiration to yourself! Share the show with friends who need that extra push. Hit that subscribe button so you never miss a moment of motivation. Want more? Head over to thepositivepersistence.com and sign up for my weekly newsletter. You'll get access to my free RINSE playbook – your guide to crushing obstacles in life, business, and relationships. The conversation doesn't stop here. Follow me on Instagram @ianrbowen for more content and daily doses of motivation. Remember, your journey to greatness starts with a single step. Let "Positive Persistence" be that step. Together, we'll help you step into the next best version of yourself. Now, let's dive into today's incredible story of resilience over adversity!

  1. 87. Saving Your Marriage with Dr. Lee Baucom

    1D AGO

    87. Saving Your Marriage with Dr. Lee Baucom

    Is your marriage in crisis or have you drifted into parallel lives with your spouse? In this transformative and deeply practical episode, Ian Bowen sits down with Dr. Lee Baucom, a marriage therapist and relationship expert with decades of experience helping couples navigate crisis and restore connection. Dr. Lee specializes in a hope-infused, action-oriented approach that goes beyond surface-level fixes to address the fundamental dynamics that make or break marriages. Dr. Lee shares powerful insights on shifting perspectives in relationships, the critical difference between "me" thinking and "we" thinking, and why most marriage problems stem from a disconnect rather than incompatibility. He explains his revolutionary three-path framework for marriage restoration: connecting, changing, and creating a path to "we." The conversation covers everything from understanding the crisis cycle to practical strategies for rebuilding trust and emotional connection. This is a must-listen for anyone in a struggling marriage, life coaches working with couples, or anyone who wants to strengthen their relationship before problems escalate. Dr. Lee provides actionable wisdom that can help you move from crisis to connection. In this episode, you’ll discover: 1. The power of perspective shifts in marriage and how viewing yourself, your spouse, and your relationship differently can create immediate transformation. 2. Why most marriage problems aren't about compatibility issues but about losing connection and the sense of "we." 3. The three essential paths to marriage restoration: connecting emotionally, changing yourself to bring your best, and creating a sustainable "we" mindset. 4. How the crisis cycle works in struggling marriages and what practical strategies can break you free from destructive reactive patterns. 5. The fundamental difference between defending your ego in arguments versus actually defending and strengthening your relationship. 6. Why addressing surface-level conflicts one at a time keeps couples stuck, and how focusing on building better systems creates lasting change. Key Takeaways: 1. Learn to Look Back Thoughtfully, Not Regretfully: Reflection can trap you in guilt or help you grow. Choose thoughtful learning over regretful rumination so past relationships inform your future rather than haunt it. 2. Perspective is Your Marriage Superpower: Humans can observe themselves in action. Use this ability to pull back from reactive patterns and see yourself, your spouse, and your relationship dynamics with fresh, compassionate eyes. 3. Crisis Narrows, Connection Broadens: When you're in pain or crisis mode, your perspective collapses to survival thinking. Expanding your view beyond your immediate hurt is essential for breaking destructive cycles and rebuilding connection. 4. Systems Trump Individual Fixes: Addressing conflicts one at a time won't fix a broken relationship system. Focus on building better patterns for how you communicate, connect, and resolve issues together as a team. 5. "We" Thinking Transforms Everything: Moving from "me versus you" to "us together" fundamentally changes how you approach money, parenting, in-laws, and every decision. This shift is the foundation of a thriving marriage. 6. Connection Requires Vulnerability, Not Negotiation: Real emotional intimacy comes from being present and vulnerable together, not from transactional bargaining, scorekeeping, or trying to win arguments. You can't negotiate your way to genuine connection. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to the Positive Persistence Podcast 00:30 - Meet Dr. Lee Baucom: marriage therapist and relationship expert 01:17 - Thoughtful reflection vs. regretful rumination: learning from past relationships 02:23 - The power of perspective in relationships 03:00 - The observer effect: watching yourself in action 04:00 - Why crisis narrows your perspective and how to expand it 06:38 - Moving from "bad fit" to understanding systemic relationship issues 16:11 - The three paths to marriage restoration: connect, change, create 24:26 - Building connection through vulnerability and emotional presence 32:05 - The crisis cycle: understanding reactive patterns in marriage 37:48 - From "me" thinking to "we" thinking: a fundamental shift 42:03 - Taking care of yourself to show up better in your relationship 44:36 - Resources: Save The Marriage and Unpause Your Marriage programs Connect with Dr. Lee Baucom: Website: https://leebaucom.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leebaucom/?hl=en Amazon (Books): https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B00FNRZEJC CONNECT WITH IAN BOWEN: Website: https://thepositivepersistence.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ianrbowen/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ianrbowen YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PositivePersistence-ch8fk Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    47 min
  2. 86. A Mother’s Journey on CDLS with Megan Dahl

    FEB 11

    86. A Mother’s Journey on CDLS with Megan Dahl

    What does it mean to choose love in the face of adversity… not once, but twice? In this deeply moving episode, Ian Bowen sits down with Megan Dahl, a mother of three boys, two of whom have Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CDLS). Megan shares her journey of raising children with special needs—one biological, one adopted—and how she’s turned life’s toughest challenges into opportunities for growth, advocacy, and unwavering love. Megan opens up about the realities of CDLS, a genetic syndrome with a wide spectrum of abilities, and how her sons Mason and Charlie navigate the world nonverbally. She discusses the intentional choice to adopt a child with CDLS, the daily therapies, immune challenges, and the profound joy her boys bring to everyone they meet. Beyond parenting, Megan is a fierce advocate for inclusion, highlighting the ongoing struggle for accessibility and basic human rights for people with disabilities. She also courageously shares the story of Mason’s abuse by a home healthcare nurse—and how she channeled her anger into action by founding Mason’s Mission to provide security cameras for vulnerable families. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, advocate, or simply someone looking to live with more empathy, this episode is a powerful reminder that strength is built in everyday acts of love, service, and persistence. In this episode, you’ll discover: 1. What Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CdLS) is and how it varies across a spectrum. 2. Why Megan and her husband chose to adopt a child with CdLS. 3. The daily realities of raising children who are nonverbal and immunocompromised. 4. How Megan maintains resilience while balancing motherhood and former nursing. 5. Why inclusion is more than a buzzword; it’s a basic human right. 6. The story behind Mason’s abuse and the creation of Mason’s Mission. 7. How small acts of kindness can transform someone’s day, and your own. 8. Why adversity can refine us, not define us, if we choose to grow from it. Key Takeaways: 1. Love Is a Choice: Megan’s decision to adopt a child with CdLS reflects a profound commitment to love without limits. 2. Inclusion Is Action: Accessibility, whether a ramp, a changing table, or a kind word, should be a given and not a privilege. 3. Resilience Is Built in Community: Support from family, partners, and a village is essential in navigating challenges. 4. Turn Pain Into Purpose: Megan transformed her anger over Mason’s abuse into a mission to protect other families. 5. Small Acts Matter: Holding a door, making eye contact, or sending a meal can be a powerful act of service. 6. Your Story Is Yours to Write: Adversity doesn’t have to define you, but how you respond does. 7. Advocacy Starts with Empathy: Seeing the world through someone else’s experience is the first step toward change. 8. Joy Can Be Found in the Hardest Places: Even in struggle, there is space for love, laughter, and growth. Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome to the Positive Persistence Podcast 00:15 – Introducing Megan Dahl and her story of love and resilience 00:55 – What is Cornelia de Lange Syndrome (CsLS)? 02:00 – The spectrum of CsLS: from mild to severe 02:50 – Megan’s two sons: one biological, one adopted 03:25 – The story of adopting Charlie 06:30 – The role of family and partnership in her journey 09:40 – Megan’s passion for inclusion and accessibility 11:15 – The real-world impact of rolling back DEI initiatives 12:20 – Challenges of accessing public spaces with a disability 17:05 – Mason’s experience with abuse by a home healthcare nurse 23:40 – The importance of in-home cameras for caregivers 29:20 – Learning from adversity and refusing to be a victim 32:10 – Dealing with blame, shame, and public judgment 33:00 – The power of therapy and mental health support 33:45 – One key takeaway: You write your own story 34:40 – How to support the CsLS Foundation 35:00 – Closing thoughts: Stay positive, persistent, and loving Connect with Megan Dahl: Website: https://linktr.ee/watchyourmouthsister TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@meggdahl Organization: Cornelia de Lange Syndrome Foundation https://www.cdls.org/ CONNECT WITH IAN BOWEN: Website: https://thepositivepersistence.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ianrbowen/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ianrbowen YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PositivePersistence-ch8fk Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    36 min
  3. 85. Bipolar Superpowers with Christoph Merrill

    FEB 4

    85. Bipolar Superpowers with Christoph Merrill

    What happens when the habits you build quietly become the thing that saves your life? In this raw and deeply impactful episode of the Positive Persistence Podcast, Ian Bowen sits down with Christoph Merrill, founder of HabitFreak, to explore the real power of habits under pressure. From outward success and fast-growing businesses to internal battles with bipolar disorder, Christoph shares the moment his life nearly ended and how a simple habit of writing notes to his kids became his lifeline. Christoph challenges conventional habit advice, explaining why “nice habits” fall apart when life gets hard and why only battle-tested, non-negotiable habits truly create lasting change. This conversation is a powerful reminder that persistence isn’t about motivation, it’s about identity, self-awareness, and choosing forward momentum even on the hardest days. In this episode, you’ll discover: 1. How writing notes to his kids became the habit that saved Christoph’s life. 2. What it means to live with Bipolar Type 1 and why Christoph reframes it as a superpower. 3. Why most habit advice fails when pressure is applied. 4. The difference between “nice habits” and battle-tested, non-negotiable habits. 5. How positive momentum habits help you push through life’s inevitable “walls.” 6. Why identity and not outcomes is the true driver of consistency. 7. How to regulate extreme highs and lows without losing your edge. 8. Why Christoph believes you are truly “one habit away.” Key Takeaways: 1. Pressure Reveals Habits: The habits that survive stress are the ones that matter most. 2. Consistency Beats Motivation: Progress comes from repetition, not inspiration. 3. Identity Drives Action: Who you believe you are shapes what you consistently do. 4. Self-Awareness Is Non-Negotiable: You can’t change what you refuse to see. 5. Momentum Matters: Small, daily actions compound into massive change. 6. Regulation Creates Sustainability: Growth isn’t about extremes, it’s about control. 7. Habits Are Lifelines: The right habit at the right time can change everything. 8. Persistence Is a Choice: You choose it daily, especially when it’s hard. Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome to the Positive Persistence Podcast 01:30 – Introducing Christoph Merrill and HabitFreak 03:30 – Early success, mindset culture, and leadership 04:30 – Writing notes to his kids: a simple but powerful habit 07:20 – Living the dream while feeling deeply disconnected 08:10 – The moment Christoph nearly ended his life 10:00 – Discovering Bipolar Type I 12:00 – Hyper-focus, flow state, and unintended consequences 16:40 – Why most habit advice fails under pressure 18:30 – “Nice habits” vs. battle-tested habits 22:45 – How pressure exposes your true operating system 31:30 – The universal “wall” in growth and persistence 41:50 – Mania, momentum, and the danger of extremes 43:30 – Choosing regulation over chaos 49:20 – “You are one habit away” explained 52:30 – Final thoughts on persistence and personal responsibility Connect with Christoph Merrill: Website: https://www.christophmerrill.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christophmerrill/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christophmerrill/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CHRISTOPHmerrill CONNECT WITH IAN BOWEN: Website: https://thepositivepersistence.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ianrbowen/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ianrbowen YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PositivePersistence-ch8fk Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    55 min
  4. 84. Organ Donation & Hope with Ty Gipson

    JAN 28

    84. Organ Donation & Hope with Ty Gipson

    What do you do when life leaves you with no options… except to move forward? In this powerful episode of the Positive Persistence Podcast, Ian Bowen sits down with entrepreneur, speaker, and transplant survivor Ty Gipson. Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at just eight years old, Ty’s life has been shaped by adversity from the very beginning.  From pioneering early insulin pump technology to surviving kidney failure, dialysis, and multiple organ transplants, Ty’s story is a living testament to grit, faith, and unwavering mindset. Ty shares how a “no options” philosophy, instilled by his parents, helped him navigate moments where survival itself was uncertain. He opens up about receiving a kidney from his mother, a pancreas transplant that freed him from diabetes for 12 years, and later receiving another kidney from his wife after months on dialysis. Through it all, Ty reveals how mindset, purpose, and community carried him through the darkest seasons of his life. This episode is not just about survival. It’s about hope, responsibility, and choosing how we think, act, and speak when adversity hits. In this episode, you’ll discover: 1. What the “No Options” mindset really means and why it’s not about limitation, but commitment. 2. Ty’s journey with Type 1 diabetes and early insulin pump technology. 3. How kidney failure and dialysis reshaped his view on life and purpose. 4. The emotional reality of waiting for organ transplants and the power of organ donation. 5. How Ty received life-saving organs from his mother and later his wife. 6. What 12 years without diabetes taught him about gratitude and perspective. 7. The importance of community, encouragement, and locking arms in hard seasons. 8. Ty’s simple but powerful 3-step framework for navigating adversity. Key Takeaways: 1. No Options Means Full Commitment: When quitting isn’t available, clarity and focus emerge. 2. Mindset Is a Daily Practice: How you think, act, and speak shapes your reality. 3. Find Your Why: Purpose fuels perseverance, especially in dark seasons. 4. Encouragement Saves Lives: A kind word or shared story can change someone’s future. 5. Hope Exists on the Other Side: Even the tallest walls are climbable. 6. Simplicity Wins: Tools that are simple are easier to use when life is hard. 7. Community Matters: None of us are meant to fight alone. 8. Your Story Has Power: Sharing your journey can inspire action in others. Timestamps: 01:00 – Introducing Ty Gipson and the “No Options” mindset 02:15 – Childhood lessons that shaped Ty’s resilience 06:20 – Kidney failure and the reality of limited medical options 09:20 – The late-night call that changed everything 11:00 – Surgery, uncertainty, and choosing life 12:30 – A kidney that worked immediately: a miracle moment 15:00 – Living 12 years without diabetes 18:55 – Kidney failure returns and entering dialysis 23:10 – The importance of encouragement in hopeless places 26:00 – Finding purpose inside adversity 31:00 – Why Ty now shares his story publicly 32:40 – Helping others one conversation at a time 34:30 – The 3-step framework: Do, Think, Talk 36:00 – Simple tools for staying mentally prepared 37:00 – How to connect with Ty and get support resources 38:00 – Organ donation and how to get involved 38:30 – Final encouragement and closing thoughts Connect with Ty Gipson: Website: https://tygipson.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ty-gipson-336b84b/ Organ Donation Information & Sign-Up: https://donatelife.net CONNECT WITH IAN BOWEN: Website: https://thepositivepersistence.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ianrbowen/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ianrbowen YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PositivePersistence-ch8fk Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    39 min
  5. 83. Running, Resilience & 50 States with Mike Stiles

    JAN 21

    83. Running, Resilience & 50 States with Mike Stiles

    What does it take to run 75 marathons across 46 states—and keep going after two herniated discs? In this inspiring episode, Ian Bowen sits down with avid runner Mike Stiles, who is on a mission to complete a marathon in all 50 states. With nearly three decades of running under his belt, Mike shares his journey from doubting he could finish his first marathon to becoming a seasoned endurance athlete with an unwavering commitment to his goal. Mike opens up about the physical setbacks, the mental battles, and the community that has supported him every step of the way. He introduces his “Triple A” framework—Aware, Accept, Adjust—a powerful mindset tool that has helped him adapt through injury, aging, and changing capabilities. Whether you’re a runner, a goal-setter, or someone facing a long-term challenge, Mike’s story is a testament to the power of persistence, adaptability, and finding joy in the journey. In this episode, you’ll discover: 1. How Mike went from walking in a 5K to running 75 marathons. 2. Why he decided to join the 50 States Marathon Club—and how close he is to completing it. 3. The mental shift from “Can I finish?” to “How fast can I finish?”—and back again. 4. How he overcame two herniated discs and kept running. 5. The “Triple A” method: Aware, Accept, Adjust—and why acceptance is the hardest part. 6. The role of community, friends, and “support staff” in sustaining a long-term running journey. 7. Mike’s race-day strategy for breaking down 26.2 miles mentally. 8. Why the last mile is often his fastest—and how he pushes through the final 10K. Key Takeaways: 1. Start Small, Think Big: Mike’s journey began with a local 5K and grew into a 50-state mission. 2. Persistence Over Perfection: Progress isn’t always linear—setbacks are part of the process. 3. Community Is Fuel: Running with others provides accountability, support, and shared joy. 4. Adapt Your Approach: As your body changes, adjust your training—not your goal. 5. Break It Down: Mentally segment big challenges into familiar, manageable pieces. 6. Comfort in Discomfort: Learn to be comfortable with being uncomfortable—it’s part of growth. 7. Celebrate Small Wins: Every finish line, no matter the time, is an achievement. 8. Mindset Is Everything: Your thoughts can fuel your persistence—or hold you back. Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome to the Positive Persistence Podcast 01:00 – Introducing Mike Stiles and his 75 marathons across 46 states 02:00 – From first 5K to first marathon: Mike’s early running days 03:40 – The support of running clubs and finding community 04:45 – Overcoming a herniated disc after only two marathons 05:30 – Small wins and gradual improvement in running 06:10 – Combining passions: Running, travel, and the 50 States Marathon Club 07:00 – The importance of Hal (a friend, not Hal Higdon) in Mike’s journey 08:05 – Mental strategies for bouncing back after injury 09:10 – How being told “you can’t” became motivation 10:15 – Running marathons teaches you: “I can do hard things.” 11:05 – The role of community and training partners 13:00 – Breaking down the marathon mentally: From 20 miles to the finish 15:40 – The “Triple A” framework: Aware, Accept, Adjust 19:00 – Adapting training after injury and with age 21:10 – The importance of core strength and ongoing self-care 22:45 – [Ad break: The Rinse Method] 23:00 – Why acceptance doesn’t mean complacency 24:00 – Public goals create accountability 26:30 – The “running bug” and why we keep coming back 28:00 – Advice for tackling long-term, grueling goals 29:30 – Being “comfortable with being uncomfortable” 30:30 – Mike’s 10-10-10 rule for marathon pacing 31:00 – How he mentally tackles the last 10K 32:50 – Drawing on past successes to fuel present challenges 33:45 – What resilience means to Mike now vs. when he started 34:45 – The power of small wins: “Make your bed.” 35:20 – How to follow Mike’s journey to 50 states 36:50 – Closing thoughts: Stay positive, persistent, and remember—mindset is everything Connect with Mike Stiles: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mike.stiles.875879/ 50 States Marathon Club: https://www.facebook.com/groups/74142960795/ CONNECT WITH IAN BOWEN: Website: https://thepositivepersistence.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ianrbowen/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ianrbowen YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PositivePersistence-ch8fk Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    38 min
  6. 82. Street Medicine & Health Equity with Arielle Banks

    JAN 14

    82. Street Medicine & Health Equity with Arielle Banks

    How do you provide healthcare to those who can’t make it to a clinic? In this powerful episode, Ian Bowen is joined by his cousin, Arielle Banks, a family nurse practitioner and street medicine pioneer dedicated to advancing health equity in Los Angeles. Dr. Banks shares her journey from growing up with a heart for service to launching a street medicine program that meets unhoused patients exactly where they are: in encampments, cars, and RVs. Arielle breaks down the systemic barriers that prevent vulnerable populations from accessing care, from environmental challenges and political red tape to the overlooked social determinants of health. She emphasizes the importance of seeing patients as whole people, not just medical cases. And explains how peer navigators, community resources, and compassionate advocacy can bridge the gaps in our healthcare system. Whether you work in healthcare, volunteer in your community, or simply want to understand how to better support those around you, this episode is a heartfelt call to action for more humane, holistic, and equitable care for all. In this episode, you’ll discover: 1. How Arielle launched a street medicine program to serve unhoused populations in LA. 2. Why traditional clinic models often fail patients without stable housing. 3. The role of social determinants of health like food, shelter, and transportation in patient outcomes. 4. How politics and funding restrictions create red tape in healthcare access. 5. The importance of peer navigators and community resources in connecting patients to care. 6. Why listening to patients and advocating for their whole needs is essential. 7. How Arielle organized the Atlanta Nurses for Black Lives march and why healthcare workers must engage in racial justice. 8. The power of community mobilization during crises like the LA fires. Key Takeaways: 1. Meet People Where They Are: Street medicine brings care directly to those who can’t access traditional clinics. 2. Health Is More Than Healthcare: Social determinants like housing, food security, and transportation directly impact well-being. 3. Be a Persistent Advocate: Change often requires pushing through red tape and speaking up for what’s right. 4. Listen to Understand: Patients are whole people with complex lives; treat them with curiosity, not authority. 5. Healthcare Workers Have Influence: Clinicians can and should advocate for systemic change and health equity. 6. Community Is Everything: In times of crisis, collective support can restore hope and provide essential resources. 7. Ask Questions: Patients have the right to understand their care and seek second opinions. 8. Turn Compassion Into Action: Whether through volunteering, donating, or advocating, everyone can help bridge healthcare gaps. Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome to the Positive Persistence Podcast 00:30 – Introducing Arielle Banks and her work in street medicine 01:00 – Clarifying Arielle’s role in Healthcare in Action 01:30 – Launching the street medicine program at St. John’s 02:30 – Challenges in serving unhoused populations 03:00 – How street medicine works: meeting patients where they are 03:35 – Congratulations on Arielle’s PBS Local Hero Award nomination 04:00 – What inspired Arielle to focus on health equity 05:00 – Addressing healthcare disparities as an African American woman 06:00 – Environmental and political challenges in street medicine 07:25 – The role of education and awareness in healthcare access 08:45 – Fear, stigma, and hustle culture as barriers to care 09:20 – The importance of social determinants of health 10:35 – Moving from transactional to compassionate, whole-person care 12:10 – A real-life example: why blood pressure meds alone aren’t enough 13:50 – Healthcare professionals’ role in racial justice and equity 15:10 – How to use your influence to create change 16:15 – Overcoming red tape and pushback in healthcare systems 18:30 – Personal experiences that shaped Arielle’s advocacy 22:00 – Why patients must advocate for themselves—and how providers can help 25:50 – The power of community during the LA fires 27:35 – Connecting patients to existing resources through peer navigators 32:45 – How to find a peer navigator or health advocate 34:15 – Arielle’s future goals in health equity and advocacy 35:15 – How to support Arielle’s work and follow her journey 36:20 – Closing thoughts: Stay positive, persistent, and human-centered Connect with Arielle Banks: Organization: Healthcare in Action Donation & Info: https://www.healthcareinaction.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-arielle-banks-dnp-fnp-c-254310149/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/allthatsarielle/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ariellenb CONNECT WITH IAN BOWEN: Website: https://thepositivepersistence.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ianrbowen/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ianrbowen YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PositivePersistence-ch8fk Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    38 min
  7. 81. Failure to Freedom with Bryan Power

    JAN 7

    81. Failure to Freedom with Bryan Power

    What if your biggest relationship failure could become your greatest breakthrough? In this deeply insightful episode, Ian Bowen sits down with Bryan Power, relationship coach and founder of My Relationship Fail. Bryan opens up about his own journey through a dysfunctional childhood, abandonment wounds, and a marriage that nearly ended in divorce, sharing how he turned his pain into a powerful coaching practice dedicated to helping others heal. Bryan breaks down the concept of “death by a thousand paper cuts” in relationships and introduces the six pillars of integrated attachment theory. He explains why listening to defend, instead of to understand, is a silent killer of connection, and how emotional regulation, boundary-setting, and repairing core wounds can transform even the most strained partnerships. Whether you’re struggling in a relationship, recovering from a breakup, or simply wanting to understand yourself better, this episode is a masterclass in turning relational pain into personal power. In this episode, you’ll discover: 1. How Bryan’s childhood trauma shaped his early understanding of love and connection. 2. Why “death by a thousand paper cuts” is what often ends relationships and not big blow-ups. 3. The danger of listening to defend instead of listening to understand. 4. What dismissive avoidance is and how it shows up in conflict. 5. The six pillars of integrated attachment theory and how to apply them. 6. How to regulate your emotions before having hard conversations. 7. Why the “cup in the sink” isn’t really about the cup and what it’s actually about. 8. How to reframe relationship failures as opportunities for growth. Key Takeaways: 1. Failure Is Feedback: Your relationship breakdowns can become breakthroughs if you’re willing to learn. 2. Heal Your Core Wounds: Until you address your subconscious triggers, you’ll keep replaying the same patterns. 3. Listen to Understand, Not Defend: Shift from a defensive posture to a curious, team-minded approach. 4. Emotional Regulation Comes First: Never have serious conversations when you’re emotionally triggered. 5. Communication Is a Skill: Most relationship problems stem from poor communication, not lack of love. 6. You Can’t Heal What You Don’t Feel: Acknowledge and work through your emotions instead of avoiding them. 7. Set Boundaries with Love: Healthy boundaries protect the relationship; they don’t wall it off. 8. Turn Breakups into Breakthroughs: Use relational pain as fuel for personal growth and deeper connection. Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome to the Positive Persistence Podcast 01:10 – Introducing Bryan Power and My Relationship Fail 02:30 – How childhood trauma shapes adult relationships 05:00 – Bryan’s story: From rocky relationships to coaching 08:15 – What is “death by a thousand paper cuts”? 10:45 – The importance of self-awareness and ownership 13:20 – Listening to defend vs. listening to understand 16:30 – How to pause when emotions run high 19:45 – Attachment styles and dismissive avoidance explained 23:10 – The six pillars of integrated attachment theory 28:50 – Emotional regulation and practical calming tools 32:40 – Why the “cup in the sink” isn’t about the cup 36:15 – How to communicate needs without attacking 39:30 – Common communication barriers and how to break them 42:50 – Bryan’s lightbulb moment: Overexplaining and feeling unheard 45:00 – How to connect with Bryan and join his mission 46:25 – Closing thoughts: Stay positive, persistent, and open to growth Connect with Bryan Power: Website: https://www.myrelationshipfail.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/myrelationshipfail/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanwpower/ CONNECT WITH IAN BOWEN: Website: https://thepositivepersistence.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ianrbowen/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ianrbowen YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PositivePersistence-ch8fk Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    47 min
  8. 80. From Grind to Growth with Steven Hadley

    12/31/2025

    80. From Grind to Growth with Steven Hadley

    What if the key to scaling your business wasn’t working harder, but thinking smarter? In this power-packed episode, Ian Bowen sits down with Steven Hadley, former owner of Daphne FitBody Bootcamp and founder of Gym Owner Advantage. Steven shares his journey from firefighting entrepreneur to strategic CEO, revealing how he learned to swap the daily grind for intentional growth. Drawing from his 14+ years as an entrepreneur, Steven breaks down his “optimize before you maximize” philosophy and introduces the transformative “Four C’s” framework: Commitment, Courage, Capability, and Confidence. He explains why taking a step back is the most powerful step forward, how to identify your unique ability, and why measuring progress backward, not forward, is the secret to unstoppable momentum. Whether you’re a gym owner, business leader, or anyone feeling stuck in the weeds, this episode is a masterclass in working on your business, not just in it. In this episode, you’ll discover: 1. Why Steven believes “getting better” beats “getting bigger” in business. 2. How his “optimize before you maximize” approach can transform your operations. 3. The Four C’s growth cycle: Commitment, Courage, Capability, and Confidence. 4. Why taking a strategic pause is the ultimate leverage for entrepreneurs. 5. How to identify your unique ability and build your business around it. 6. Practical ways to shift from operator to visionary in your company. 7. The “gap vs. gain” mindset and why looking backward fuels forward progress. 8. How to use “what if I don’t?” as a motivator to push through fear. Key Takeaways: 1. Optimize Before You Maximize: Do one thing exceptionally well before expanding. 2. Growth Requires a Pause: The most strategic action is often stepping back to think. 3. The Four C’s Cycle: Commitment leads to Courage, which builds Capability, which creates Confidence. 4. Your Unique Ability Is Your Superpower: Build your team and business around it. 5. Measure Progress Backward: Look how far you’ve come, not just how far you have to go. 6. Comfort Is the Enemy of Growth: Staying busy with easy tasks won’t move the needle. 7. Clarity Beats Hustle: Overwhelm often comes from working on the wrong things in the wrong order. 8. Think “What If I Don’t?”: Sometimes the fear of staying stuck is the push you need to leap. Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome to the Positive Persistence Podcast 01:32 – Meet Steven Hadley: From gym owner to business strategist 02:42 – The problem with entrepreneur “firefighting” mode 05:20 – Why “better” beats “bigger” in business growth 07:18 – The power of going narrow and deep 10:27 – How to find your unique ability and secret sauce 14:49 – The Four C’s: Commitment, Courage, Capability, Confidence 18:13 – Why your past achievements have an expiration date 22:45 – Shifting from operator to visionary 26:30 – Overcoming imposter syndrome and cultivating self-belief 31:28 – The “gap vs. gain” mindset for measuring success 34:35 – How to reconnect with your purpose during setbacks 38:17 – What is Gym Owner Advantage and who it’s for 41:56 – Where to find Steven and learn more 42:26 – Closing thoughts: Stay positive, persistent, and intentional Connect with Steven Hadley: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevenwhadley/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stevenhadley17 CONNECT WITH IAN BOWEN: Website: https://thepositivepersistence.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ianrbowen/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ianrbowen YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@PositivePersistence-ch8fk Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    43 min
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5
out of 5
16 Ratings

About

Welcome to "Positive Persistence, with Ian Bowen," the podcast that will ignite your spirit and fuel your journey to greatness! I'm Ian Bowen, and I'm here to tell you stories of ordinary people who've conquered extraordinary challenges. If you're ready to unleash your potential and leave an indelible mark on the world, you're in the right place. Each week, we'll dive deep into tales of triumph that will inspire you to overcome your obstacles and reach new heights. But this isn't just a podcast – it's a movement. By joining our "Positive Persistence" family, you're taking the first step towards activating your highest potential and living the life you truly deserve. After each episode, don't keep this inspiration to yourself! Share the show with friends who need that extra push. Hit that subscribe button so you never miss a moment of motivation. Want more? Head over to thepositivepersistence.com and sign up for my weekly newsletter. You'll get access to my free RINSE playbook – your guide to crushing obstacles in life, business, and relationships. The conversation doesn't stop here. Follow me on Instagram @ianrbowen for more content and daily doses of motivation. Remember, your journey to greatness starts with a single step. Let "Positive Persistence" be that step. Together, we'll help you step into the next best version of yourself. Now, let's dive into today's incredible story of resilience over adversity!

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