The Positive Persistence Podcast with Ian Bowen

Ian Bowen

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 ianbowen.net 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 @positivepersistence for behind-the-scenes content and daily doses of motivation. Check out my website, ianbowen.net, for more resources, and join our Facebook community @PositivePersistence to connect with fellow persistence warriors. Remember, your journey to greatness starts with a single step. Let "Positive Persistence" be that step. Together, we'll turn your dreams into reality. Now, let's dive into today's incredible story of triumph over adversity!

  1. 79. The Machete Mentality with Robyn Tanner

    DEC 17

    79. The Machete Mentality with Robyn Tanner

    What if your greatest brush with death became the fuel to help others step into their future selves? In this raw and powerful episode, Ian Bowen sits down with Robyn Tanner, a certified future self coach, host of the Daily Fight podcast, and bestselling author of The Machete Mentality. Robyn pulls back the curtain on her harrowing medical journey, from being misdiagnosed by nine doctors while suffering from a rare spinal infection, to undergoing emergency surgery that left her with a partially dead leg and missing part of her spine. She shares how she fought her way back to running marathons, coaching clients, and stepping onto the bikini stage, all while redefining her identity beyond the warrior persona. Robyn reveals the crucial difference between being stuck and settling, how to tap into the roar of your future self, and why true resilience is not about pushing through pain, it is about learning when to soften. This is a masterclass in turning trauma into transformation, offering life coaches and high-performers a blueprint for leading with sober, tested wisdom. In this episode, you’ll discover: 1. What it truly means to be a future self coach and how Robyn bridges the gap between who you are and who you are meant to be. 2. The story of Robyn's rare spinal infection, the nine doctors who missed it, and how she advocated for her life in the nick of time. 3. How she defied medical limitations to run a marathon, compete in bodybuilding, and reopen her gym, all with a partially dead leg. 4. The emotional and mental toll of losing a core identity as a fighter and learning to process trauma years later. 5. The difference between being stuck (having hope left) and settling (having given up), and how to move from one to the other. 6. Why soft personal development is not enough, and how to tap into the urgent, roaring beast inside you. 7. How Robyn's sober leadership philosophy ensures she only coaches what she has lived and mastered for years. 8. Practical strategies to stop running everyone else's life and start running your own. Key Takeaways: 1.Stuck is Not Settling: Being stuck means you still have fight left; settling means you have thrown in the towel. You can choose to change at any moment. 2. Your Future Self is Roaring: That relentless, God-given obsession inside you is not a whisper, it is a roar. Answer it before life forces you to. 3. Stop Performing, Start Feeling: True healing requires creating space to process trauma, not just pushing through it for others. 4. Advocate Like Your Life Depends on It: In medical crises and personal battles, you must be your own unwavering champion. 5. Do What You Love, It is That Simple: Overcomplication is the enemy. If you love to write, write. If you love to coach, coach. Start there. 6. Resilience is a Blend of Hard and Soft: Learn when to fight and when to stretch. Not everything has to be a battle. 7. Your Past Does Not Disqualify You, It Equips You: Every version of you is on your team. Integrate your stories; do not abandon them. 8. Sober Leadership is Trustworthy Leadership: Coach only what you have lived and mastered. Credibility comes from time-tested experience, not theory. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to the Positive Persistence Podcast 01:04 – Welcoming Future Self Coach Robyn Tanner 01:35 – What is a Future Self Coach? 03:23 – Robyn's Medical Nightmare: Misdiagnosis and Advocacy 06:27 – Emergency Surgery and Facing Mortality 08:07 – Defying Medical Limitations: Marathons, Coaching, and Stage 11:52 – The Emotional Toll of Identity Loss 16:18 – Processing Trauma Years Later 19:26 – Stuck vs. Settling: The Critical Difference 22:45 – Tapping into Your Inner Roar 27:30 – The Role of Faith and Self-Belief 30:42 – How Robyn Coaches with Sober Leadership 35:56 – Where to Find Robyn Tanner and Her Work 41:30 – Wrapping Up: Stay Positive, Stay Persistent Connect with Robyn Tanner: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/writer_robynlynn/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/robynlynntanner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robynthrasher/ Website: https://www.robyntanner.com/ Book – The Machete Mentality: https://a.co/d/hT7KWd1 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
  2. 78. Mindset for Sustainable Ambition with Kathy Oneto

    DEC 10

    78. Mindset for Sustainable Ambition with Kathy Oneto

    What if chasing success didn’t have to mean burning out? In this deeply insightful episode, Ian Bowen sits down with Kathy Oneto, an executive and life-work coach, speaker, and founder of Sustainable Ambition. Kathy brings a refreshing and realistic approach to ambition, one that aligns high achievement with personal well-being. Drawing from her experience as a former triathlete and marathon runner, she shares powerful lessons on pacing, resilience, and the art of thriving without sacrificing what matters most. Kathy opens up about the misconceptions of “work-life balance” and introduces her practical framework for managing ambition wisely: aligning the right ambitions, at the right time, with the right effort. She discusses the importance of self-compassion, the power of community, and how to navigate setbacks with a growth mindset. This episode is essential listening for life coaches, leaders, and anyone feeling caught between hustle culture and the desire for a fulfilling, sustainable life. In this episode, you’ll discover: 1. How Kathy’s background as a triathlete shapes her philosophy on sustainable effort and resilience. 2. Why the term “work-life balance” can be misleading, and what to focus on instead. 3. The three-part framework for sustainable ambition: Right Ambition, Right Time, Right Effort. 4. Practical strategies for pacing yourself in life and work to avoid burnout. 5. How to find meaning and motivation even in roles that aren’t your ultimate passion. 6. The importance of self-compassion and acknowledging your progress. 7. Why your support system is critical for long-term persistence and success. 8. How to reframe setbacks as learning opportunities and continue moving forward. Key Takeaways: 1. Sustainable Ambition Is a Mindset: True success isn’t about relentless hustle; it’s about aligning your efforts with what matters most to you, over the long haul. 2. Pace Over Push: Like in endurance sports, pacing is key. Consistent, intentional effort beats short-term burnout every time. 3. Right Effort, Right Time: Be discerning about where you invest your energy. Not every goal deserves your all, all the time. 4. Progress Over Perfection: Acknowledge how far you’ve come. Celebrating small wins builds momentum and motivation. 5. Self-Compassion Is Strategic: Being kind to yourself when you stumble isn’t soft; it’s essential for resilience and continued growth. 6. Your Community Is Your Fuel: Surround yourself with people who believe in you, challenge you, and help you see your own potential. 7. Embrace the Long Game: Meaningful change and achievement often take longer than we expect. Trust the process. 8. Alignment Beats Hustle: When your actions are aligned with your values and vision, effort feels more like purpose than grind. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction to the Positive Persistence Podcast 01:18 – Welcome Kathy Oneto: Redefining sustainable success 02:29 – From triathlete to coach: How sports shaped Kathy’s philosophy 04:08 – The myth of work-life balance and a more realistic approach 07:18 – The Sustainable Ambition framework: Right Ambition, Right Time, Right Effort 10:31 – How to pursue big goals without burning out 14:49 – Finding meaning in the journey, not just the destination 17:32 – The role of self-compassion and acknowledging progress 20:14 – Building a support system that champions your growth 23:17 – Reframing setbacks as learning, not failure 26:12 – Kathy’s one piece of actionable advice: start with self-compassion 28:42 – How life coaches can apply these principles with clients 31:50 – Where to find Kathy, her book, podcast, and resources 39:50 – Closing thoughts: Staying positive, persistent, and aligned Connect with Kathy Oneto: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sustainableambition/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/sustainableambition/ Website: https://sustainableambition.com/ Book: https://sustainableambition.com/books#preordernow Podcast: https://sustainableambition.com/podcast 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.

    41 min
  3. 77. Medical Miracle to Messenger with Victoria Mitchell

    DEC 3

    77. Medical Miracle to Messenger with Victoria Mitchell

    What does it truly mean to be resilient when your life depends on the gift of a stranger? In this profoundly moving episode, Ian Bowen sits down with Victoria Mitchell, an extraordinary advocate and motivational speaker. Victoria unveils her incredible journey of being born with an ultra-rare urea cycle disorder, a condition that made protein her kryptonite and threatened her life from infancy. She shares the pivotal moment of receiving a life-saving liver transplant at just four years old and how that gift shaped her entire existence. Victoria pulls back the curtain on the challenges of growing up immunocompromised, the visible scar that made her feel different, and the powerful advocacy of her mother who refused to accept grim medical prognoses. Now, 28 years post-transplant, she channels her experiences into helping others through her work with Extend the Rose, the National Urea Cycle Disorder Foundation, and Gift of Life. This is a masterclass in turning personal struggle into a purpose-driven life, offering a powerful perspective on resilience, gratitude, and the profound impact of organ donation. In this episode, you’ll discover: 1. The story of Victoria’s rare disorder diagnosis just days after birth and the staggering odds she faced. 2. What it was like growing up with highly regulated protein intake and the constant threat of ammonia spikes. 3. The harrowing 23-day wait for a liver transplant and why that timeframe was miraculously short. 4. The profound physical and developmental changes Victoria experienced immediately after her transplant. 5. How a visible scar shaped her self-image as a child and the powerful reframe she uses today. 6. The inspiring story behind "Extend the Rose" and how it brings hope to families in the hospital. 7. Victoria’s crucial work with Gift of Life, debunking common myths about organ donation. 8. Her powerful, actionable definition of resilience and how anyone can tap into it during difficult times. Key Takeaways: 1. Resilience is Getting Up More Than You Fall Down: True resilience isn't about avoiding hardship; it's about the commitment to rise every single time you fall. 2. Your Support System is Non-Negotiable: Having advocates—like Victoria's mother—who challenge the status quo can be the difference between giving up and fighting on. 3. A Crisis is an Invitation to Grow: The most challenging chapters of your life can become the foundation for your purpose and your greatest contributions to others. 4. Don't Pray for a Hole, Start Digging: You can wait for a miracle, or you can put in the work yourself. Action, however small, is the seed of resilience. 5. Asking for Help is a Strength: Vulnerability and reaching out for support are not signs of weakness but profound acts of courage and self-awareness. 6. One Donor Can Save Dozens of Lives: Understanding the massive impact of organ donation can transform a difficult conversation into a legacy of life. 7. Healing Others Helps You Heal: Using your story to bring light to someone in a dark place creates a cycle of healing that benefits both the giver and receiver. 8. Mindset is Everything: How you see your challenges: as insurmountable obstacles or invitations to grow, defines your journey through them. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to the Positive Persistence Podcast 01:23 - Welcoming Extraordinary Advocate Victoria Mitchell 03:09 - Unpacking a Rare Disorder Diagnosed in Infancy 05:42 - The Challenges of Growing Up with a Urea Cycle Disorder 08:14 - The Life-Saving Liver Transplant at Age Four 10:41 - Life After Transplant: New Challenges and Freedoms 15:15 - The Mental and Emotional Impact of a Visible Scar 17:25 - Debunking Life Expectancy Myths After a Transplant 20:30 - The Role of a Tenacious Mother and Advocate 22:48 - Creating Hope for Families with "Extend the Rose" 26:05 - Advocating for Organ Donation Education in High Schools 30:35 - The Astonishing Statistics of Organ Donation 33:03 - What Resilience Truly Means and How to Cultivate It 35:26 - How to Connect with Victoria and Support Her Work Connect with Victoria Mitchell: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/victoria.f.mitchell/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/torrey.thomas.14 National Urea Cycle Disorders Foundation: http://nucdf.org/ Extend the Wave: https://extendthewave.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.

    37 min
  4. 76. Shattering Limiting Beliefs with Lorayne Michaels

    NOV 26

    76. Shattering Limiting Beliefs with Lorayne Michaels

    What if your greatest pain was the very foundation of your purpose? In this powerful episode, Ian Bowen sits down with Lorayne Michaels, a certified personal trainer, wellness coach, and purpose-driven speaker. Lorayne pulls back the curtain on her journey from a shattered "perfect life"marked by abusive relationships, divorce, and rock-bottom self-worth, to building a mission dedicated to helping women break free from mental and physical barriers. She shares the pivotal mindset shifts and practical tools she used to rebuild from scratch, including a cross-country move and immersing herself in personal development. Lorayne reveals how to rewire your brain from self-sabotage to self-love, why your past prepares rather than disqualifies you, and how to prioritize your well-being without guilt. This is a masterclass in turning pain into purpose, offering a powerful blueprint for any woman or life coach ready to reclaim their confidence and step into their God-given potential. In this episode, you’ll discover: 1. The moment Lorayne's "perfect life" imploded in 2020 and how she used it as a catalyst for total reinvention. 2. The three critical questions she asked herself when starting from scratch that guided her transformation. 3. How to break free from the common limiting beliefs of "I'm too old" and "It's too late" to pursue your dreams. 4. A simple, powerful neuroscience analogy for rewiring your brain from negative thought loops to positive affirmations. 5. The two daily practices to build self-worth from the inside out, including the "Alphabet I-Ams." 6. How women can overcome guilt and finally prioritize their own health and fitness. 7. The profound reframe: "Your past doesn't disqualify you; it prepares you," and how to apply it to your own story. 8. The role of journaling and a gratitude mindset in healing and rebuilding confidence. Key Takeaways: 1. Your Past Prepares You, Not Disqualifies You: The lessons from your deepest struggles are the exact tools you need to help others who are now where you once were. 2. Rewire Your Brain, Rewrite Your Life: By consciously changing your thoughts, you can literally create new neural pathways, turning a trench of negativity into a highway of positive belief. 3. Self-Worth is a Daily Practice: Telling yourself "I love you" in the mirror and using affirmations like the "Alphabet I-Ams" build the foundational worthiness required for transformation. 4. You Can't Pour From an Empty Cup: Prioritizing your health isn't selfish; it's essential. You show up as a better parent, partner, and leader when you are physically and mentally fit. 5. Persistence is Clarity, Not Just Hustle: True forward momentum often starts with getting still, turning off the noise, and tapping into your faith and inner guidance to find the right next step. 6. Your Mindset is Your Most Powerful Asset: If you believe you can or you can't, you're right. The battle is won in your mind long before it's manifested in your life. 7. Journaling is a Release and a Reframe: Getting your thoughts on paper and even burning them can be a therapeutic act that releases negativity and refocuses your mind on gratitude and growth. 8. Your 40s Are Just the Beginning: It's never too late to reinvent yourself, pursue your dreams, and become the healthiest and most confident version of yourself. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to the Positive Persistence Podcast 01:08 - Welcoming Lorayne Michaels 01:37 - The Essence of Tranquil Power 02:16 - The Question: When a "Perfect Life" Shatters 02:45 - Lorayne's Story of Implosion and Abuse 04:07 - Tapping into Faith and Inner Strength 05:12 - The First Steps to Reinvention 06:30 - The 3 Guiding Questions for a New Life 07:30 - Cutting Out the Noise and "Safe" Advice 09:30 - The Turning Point: Personal Development and Community 11:54 - Breaking Free from Common Limiting Beliefs 13:50 - The Neuroscience of Rewiring Your Brain 16:44 - How to Build Unshakable Self-Worth 18:51 - The "Alphabet I-Ams" Practice 20:13 - Overcoming Guilt and Prioritizing Your Health 23:05 - "Your Past Doesn't Disqualify You" 27:28 - The Power of Mindset and Emotional Intelligence 31:25 - Lorayne's Current Mission: Fitness for Women 35+ 35:38 - The Role of Journaling and Gratitude 39:10 - A Therapeutic Journaling Technique for Release 41:53 - How to Connect with Lorayne Michaels Connect with Lorayne Michaels: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/loraynemichaels/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LorayneMichaelsCoaching TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@lorayne.michaels Journals: https://www.etsy.com/shop/theboldbeginnings/ Podcast: The Bite-Size Podcast with Lorayne Michaels https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-bite-size-podcast-with-lorayne-michaels/id1679053330 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.

    44 min
  5. 75. Heart Attack Healing Blueprint with Tara Benoit

    NOV 19

    75. Heart Attack Healing Blueprint with Tara Benoit

    What happens when your identity is shattered in an instant, and the very thing that defined you is now a threat to your life? Tara Benoit, a speaker, bestselling author, and 2025 American Heart Association Woman of Impact, joins Ian Bowen to share her harrowing and inspiring journey of surviving a SCAD heart attack at 46. As a lifelong athlete in the best shape of her life, Tara’s world collapsed when a spontaneous tear in her coronary artery led to a rare heart attack, forcing her to walk away from the heavy lifting and competitive fitness that she loved. In this raw conversation, Tara pulls back the curtain on the frustrating medical gaslighting she endured, the grief of losing a core part of her identity, and the powerful mindset and practical tools she used to rebuild. She unveils her powerful "MOVE Method" framework (Manage, Overcome, Value, Evolve) and explains how movement and meditation became her anchors for emotional and mental healing. This episode is a masterclass for any life coach or individual on how to navigate a life-altering crisis, reinvent yourself with purpose, and lead from a place of renewed strength. In this episode, you’ll discover: 1. What a SCAD (Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection) heart attack is and why it disproportionately affects healthy women under 50. 2. The story of Tara’s heart attack, from the first warning signs to the moment of diagnosis after being initially dismissed. 3. The profound identity crisis that follows when you can no longer do the thing that defined you. 4. Why being physically fit can be a double-edged sword in both survival and emotional recovery. 5. The most challenging truth Tara had to confront about herself while writing her memoir, "Torn Heart." 6. Tara’s "MOVE Method" – a simple 4-pillar framework for managing control, overcoming challenges, valuing the lesson, and evolving through adversity. 7. Practical ways to use physical movement and stretching for emotional and nervous system regulation after trauma. 8. The one piece of advice Tara gives to anyone, especially women, feeling stuck and wanting to transform into the next version of themselves. Key Takeaways: 1. Persistence is Getting Present, Not Just Pushing: True resilience isn't about forcing your way through; it's about the courage to stop, find clarity, and then take the next right step. 2. Your Identity is Not Your Activity: When a core part of your identity is stripped away, the path to healing involves grieving the old self and consciously building a new, equally powerful identity. 3. You Must Be Your Own Advocate: In a medical or personal crisis, you are the only one who knows how you truly feel. Using your voice to demand the care you deserve is non-negotiable. 4. Heal the Mind to Heal the Body: Trauma lives in the cells. Practices like intentional meditation and mindful movement are not optional extras; they are critical for recalibrating the nervous system and facilitating full-body healing. 5. Transformation Starts with Permission: The first step to changing your life is giving yourself unconditional permission to want that change and to acknowledge your current unhappiness as a catalyst. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to the Positive Persistence Podcast 01:09 - Welcoming Tara Benoit and Her Incredible Journey 02:02 - What is a SCAD Heart Attack? 03:29 - The Unknown Causes and Correlation with Stress 05:21 - The Identity Crisis of an Athlete Who Can’t Train 07:16 - The Moment It All Began: Tara’s Heart Attack Story 11:00 - Medical Gaslighting and the Fight for a Diagnosis 16:44 - The Pivotal Moment of Diagnosis and Validation 19:28 - The Hardest Truth: Confronting the Self in "Torn Heart" 22:53 - Introducing the "MOVE Method" for Resilience 28:05 - Using Movement and Meditation to Recalibrate Your Nervous System 33:47 - Advice for Feeling Stuck and Starting Your Transformation 39:08 - How to Connect with Tara Benoit and Get "Torn Heart" Connect with Tara Benoit: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tarabenoitinspires/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TaraBenoitInspires/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Tarabenoitinspires LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tarabenoit/ Website: https://www.tarabenoit.com/ Book, Torn Heart: https://a.co/d/7yl5FM0 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.

    46 min
  6. 74. Comeback from Corporate Collapse with Jodi Scott

    NOV 12

    74. Comeback from Corporate Collapse with Jodi Scott

    What happens when the strategic partnership you bet your entire company on collapses overnight, leaving you to fire your family and face financial ruin? Jodi Scott is the co-founder and CEO of Green Goo. Jodi pulls back the curtain on her incredible journey from blending clinical care and plant-based medicine to building a nationally recognized, family-run brand, only to have it all come crashing down due to a partner's federal indictment. She shares the moment she had less than 24 hours to terminate her entire team, including her mom and sister, and the profound personal crisis that followed. Jodi reveals the mindset shifts and practical tools she used to navigate this rock bottom, from cold plunges to conscious breathing, and how she found the clarity to fight for her company back. This is a masterclass in resilience for any entrepreneur, leader, or life coach, offering a powerful blueprint for rebuilding with purpose, preserving company culture, and leading with a renewed sense of gratitude. In this episode, you’ll discover: 1. How Jodi’s childhood, shaped by athletic performance and a deep connection to plants, fused with her education in health psychology to form the foundation of Green Goo. 2. The story of starting in a kitchen and scaling to 150,000 retail doors in less than five years, and the "fight or flight" mode of exponential growth. 3. Why they sought a strategic partner and how a seemingly perfect alignment with an international company turned into their biggest nightmare. 4. The devastating 24-hour period that led to the collapse of the deal, the termination of her entire team, and the loss of all personal and company financial resources. 5. The pivotal family conversation that shifted them from paralysis to deciding to fight for their company and their customers. 6. Jodi’s powerful reframe of "persistence" from constant pushing to getting present and finding clarity before action. 7. Actionable grounding techniques (like the 10-second horizon gaze and sound focusing) to calm the nervous system and make sharp decisions under pressure. 8. Where Green Goo is today in its "second startup" phase and the immense gratitude that comes from losing everything and building it back. Key Takeaways: 1. Persistence is Clarity, Not Just Hustle: True persistence isn't always go-go-go. Sometimes, it's the courage to stop, get present, and find the clarity needed to take the right next step. 2. Build Your "In-The-Ring" Muscle Outside The Ring: The ability to stay calm and make intentional decisions in a crisis is built through daily practices like breathwork and mindfulness, not in the moment of panic. 3. Your Support System is Your Lifeline: From family to community mentors, leaning on your real support network is non-negotiable when navigating a crisis that feels insurmountable. 4. Crisis is an Invitation, Not an Obstacle: The most challenging times, while painful, can be gifts that force a reevaluation of what matters, leading to a richer, more purposeful way of living and leading. 5. Label Your Thoughts to Liberate Yourself: When flooded with stress, simply naming a thought ("worry," "fear") and letting it pass allows you to discard mental noise and access a state of clear, intentional action. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to the Positive Persistence Podcast 01:14 - Welcoming Jodi Scott, Co-Founder & CEO of Green Goo 01:37 - Jodi's Journey: From Plant-Based Roots to Clinical Care 04:08 - The "Aha" Moment: Discovering the Gap in Natural First Aid 05:19 - Farmer's Market Beginnings and Exponential Retail Growth 09:35 - The Decision to Partner: Seeking Strategic Growth 16:33 - The Deal Collapses: A Founder's Federal Indictment 20:45 - The Devastating 24 Hours: Letting Go of the Family Team 24:30 - Hitting Rock Bottom: Financial and Emotional Paralysis 26:21 - The Turning Point: "We Can't Live Without This Stuff" 28:05 - The New Persistence: Getting Present Through Cold Plunges and Breath 31:26 - Leading by Example: How Jodi's Practices Rippled to Her Family 34:25 - The 18-Month Fight to Reclaim Green Goo 39:48 - Actionable Steps to Reframe a Crisis and Find Clarity 43:50 - The Gift in the Struggle: A Renewed Lens on Life and Business 46:55 - How to Support Green Goo and Connect with Jodi Connect with Jodi Scott: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jodi_a_scott/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/GreenGooHelps Website: https://www.greengoo.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodi-scott-7b16bb161/ 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.

    48 min
  7. 73. From Rock Bottom to Resilience with Chad Dunn

    NOV 5

    73. From Rock Bottom to Resilience with Chad Dunn

    What does it take to rebuild a life from rock bottom, federal prison, and addiction into one of purpose and success? In this raw and powerful episode, Ian Bowen sits down with Chad Dunn, a certified behavioral change specialist and the co-founder of MOVE Human Performance Center. Chad unveils his incredible journey from a promising career in physical therapy to a devastating spiral of drug use and a 30-month federal prison sentence. He shares the pivotal turning point that sparked his redemption and the core philosophy that now allows him to help everyone from professional athletes to individuals with catastrophic injuries reclaim their lives. Chad delves into his "One in a Row" methodology, the critical importance of a real support system, and why he reframes "addiction" as a series of "choices." This is a masterclass in resilience, offering a practical blueprint for anyone looking to overcome limitations and build a life of unshakable strength. In this episode, you’ll discover: 1. Chad’s journey from a dream-driven kid to a drug-dealing, crack-smoking personal trainer, and the consequences that forced a reckoning. 2. The single most important factor in his turnaround and how finding a "real" support system is non-negotiable for sustainable change. 3. The "One in a Row" mindset methodology he developed in prison and how to apply it to any goal. 4. A powerful client story of helping a paralyzed BMX Hall of Famer walk again through mindset and environment. 5. Why Chad prefers the word "choices" over "addiction" and how this linguistic shift empowers personal responsibility. 6. Practical steps for anyone feeling stuck to start their comeback, including the first thing you must do to hear yourself think. Key Takeaways: 1. Your Support System Must Be Real: The people who hold the mirror up to you in both good times and bad are the ones who will help you cross the finish line. 2. Master the "One in a Row" Mindset: Success is built one day, one repetition, one good choice at a time. Focus on completing the one directly in front of you. 3. Be the Inner Coach, Not the Inner Critic: The battle is won or lost in your mind. Silence the critic and become the coach who pushes you through the struggle. 4. Environment is Everything: Surround yourself with people who are grinding. A competitive, positive environment is contagious and raises the floor for everyone. 5. On the Other Side of Pain Lies Greatness: The frustration and struggle are where resilience is built and where true transformation happens. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to the Positive Persistence Podcast 01:37 - Meet Chad Dunn: From Physical Therapy Aspirations to a Life Off the Rails 02:21 - The Downward Spiral: Drug Use, Dealing, and Hitting Rock Bottom 04:06 - The Turning Point: Meeting His Wife and the Power of a Real Support System 04:35 - Federal Prison as a Training Ground: “Movement is Medicine” 07:30 - Founding MOVE Human Performance Center and the “One in a Row” Philosophy 10:27 - Mindset in Action: The Story of Helping a Paralyzed Athlete Walk Again 15:40 - Creating a Contagious Environment for Recovery and Peak Performance 21:21 - Embracing Your New Identity: Letting Go of Who You “Used to Be” 22:40 - Ignoring the Noise: How to Stop Being the Inner Critic and Start Being the Inner Coach 25:59 - The Power of Self-Identity: Why “Know Thyself” is the First Step to Change 28:48 - The Non-Negotiables of Change: Why You Must Have a Plan and an Exit Strategy 31:28 - “On the Other Side of Pain Lies Greatness”: A Story of Ultramarathon Pain and Purpose 35:51 - Practical Steps to Start Your Comeback: Finding Silence and Breathing 38:12 - Chad’s Final Message and How to Connect Connect with Leigh Devine: Website: https://mindovervirtuallyeverything.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moveperformance Facebook: https://facebook.com/chaddunn22 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chad-dunn-1b562a41 Book: https://mindovervirtuallyeverything.com/shop/ 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.

    40 min
  8. 72. Parenting Resilient Teens with Leigh Devine

    OCT 29

    72. Parenting Resilient Teens with Leigh Devine

    Are you feeling overwhelmed by navigating the complexities of today's teenagers? In this profoundly insightful and practical episode, Ian Bowen sits down with Leigh Devine, a seasoned therapist and founder of Lotus of Life Counseling with over 23 years of experience. Leigh pulls from her vast expertise in schools, hospitals, and private practice to shed light on the inner world of adolescents and provide a roadmap for adults to support them effectively. She delves into the critical importance of validation over compliance, how to regulate your own nervous system during heated moments, and why a teen's lie is often a shield, not a sword. Leigh also shares tangible strategies for building self-esteem in a world of social media comparison and fostering the resilience kids need to transition successfully into "emerging adulthood." This is a must-listen for anyone, who wants to move beyond reactionary parenting and mentoring. Parents could unlock becoming a grounded, trusted guide for the young people in their lives. In this episode, you’ll discover: 1. The two most common patterns of adversity teens face today and how to spot the early warning signs of declining mental health. 2. Why validation is the cornerstone of building trust with a teenager (and how it's different from agreement). 3. A simple, in-the-moment tool for parents to de-escalate their own anger and turn a disciplinary moment into a teaching one. 4. The surprising reason why teenagers lie and how to create an environment where they feel safe telling the truth. 5. Practical strategies for helping teens build healthy body confidence and self-worth in the age of YouTube and social media comparison. 6. How to support the transition from adolescence to young adulthood by being a "resource," not a "helicopter." Key Takeaways: 1. Validate to Build Trust: Validation is the fastest way to build a bridge of trust. Acknowledging a teen's feelings as real is not about agreeing with them. It’s about making them feel heard. 2. Regulate Yourself First: The most powerful parenting tool in a crisis is your own regulated nervous system. Walking away to breathe is not a sign of weakness; it's a strategic move that models emotional intelligence. 3. Connection is Protection: Teens who are isolated and lack connection to peers, clubs, or other supportive adults are at higher risk. Fostering these connections is a proactive step toward safeguarding their mental health. 4. Build the Human, Not the Résumé: Focus on praising character, effort, and integrity over outward appearance or achievement. This builds a core sense of self-worth that isn't dependent on external validation. 5. Let Them "FIO" (Figure It Out): Resilience is born from overcoming adversity. Allowing teens to solve their own problems (within safe boundaries) gives them the blueprint to handle future challenges. Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to the Positive Persistence Podcast 01:28 - Meet Leigh Devine: Therapist and Founder of Lotus of Life Counseling 03:03 - Common Patterns of Adversity Faced by Teens Today 06:00 - The Power of Validation and How It Builds Trust & Identity 09:05 - Finding the Balance: Giving Teens Space vs. Providing Guidance 12:32 - Evolving as a Parent: Moving Beyond "Because I Said So" 17:08 - The Regulated Parent: How to Pause and De-escalate in Heated Moments 21:50 - Understanding Why Teens Lie: It’s Often a Protection Mechanism 27:09 - Early Warning Signs of Teen Mental Health Struggles 30:24 - The Critical Role of Social Connection (Online and Offline) 34:11 - Building Healthy Body Image and Self-Esteem in a Digital World 44:07 - The "Emerging Adult": Supporting the Transition to Independence 47:58 - The Ultimate Goal: Unconditional Love and Building Resilient Humans 51:50 - How to Connect with Leigh Devine and Lotus of Life Counseling Connect with Leigh Devine: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lotus_of_life_counseling_ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lotusoflifeIndy Website: https://www.lotusoflifecounseling.net/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leigh-devine-0b69431a6/ 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.

    56 min
5
out of 5
14 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 ianbowen.net 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 @positivepersistence for behind-the-scenes content and daily doses of motivation. Check out my website, ianbowen.net, for more resources, and join our Facebook community @PositivePersistence to connect with fellow persistence warriors. Remember, your journey to greatness starts with a single step. Let "Positive Persistence" be that step. Together, we'll turn your dreams into reality. Now, let's dive into today's incredible story of triumph over adversity!