Passion Struck with John R. Miles

Passion Struck with John R. Miles
  • 4.7 (641)
  • Alternative Health
  • Updated Weekly

You built the life you were supposed to want. So why doesn't it feel like enough? Passion Struck is the #1 Health and Fitness podcast — and it exists to answer exactly that question. I'm John R. Miles — Navy veteran, former Fortune 50 executive, bestselling author — and I built this show because I lived the "successful but empty" version of life myself, and I wanted to find a better way. Each week, I sit down with the world's top voices in neuroscience, psychology, medicine, and elite performance — including Angela Duckworth, Susan Cain, Robert Waldinger, Daniel Amen, and Ryan Holiday — to unpack what the research tells us about purpose, connection, and resilience, and how to apply it to your own life. Fridays, I share what I'm learning directly, in solo episodes built around the same ideas. New interviews every Tuesday and Thursday. Solo episodes every Friday.

  1. 1d ago

    Why You’re Not Changing Even Though You Know What to Do | Mark Manson - EP 808

    Have you ever had a breakthrough that felt like it was going to change your life, only to find yourself back in the same patterns a week later? In this powerful conversation, John R. Miles sits down with three-time New York Times bestselling author Mark Manson to unpack one of the biggest traps in personal growth: confusing insight with actual change. Mark explains why reading another book, learning another framework, or becoming more self-aware can make you feel like you're changing without actually changing your behavior. Real transformation requires something much harder: doing things differently when they're uncomfortable or letting go of an identity you've outgrown. You'll learn: Why insight can become a form of procrastination The difference between personality, adaptation, and identity Why changing your environment may be easier than changing yourself How old adaptations can become identities that hold you back Why motivation isn't always the problem Why “optimal is suboptimal” How to recognize when your mental model no longer matches reality Why sometimes the best way to grow is to stop trying to become someone else Mark also shares the powerful advice his father gave him about becoming the goose instead of chasing the golden eggs—and why developing your ability to create value is more important than protecting what you've already built. This conversation is a reminder that you don't always need more information to change your life. Sometimes you need the courage to behave differently, release an identity that no longer fits, and create an environment that brings out who you actually are. Pre-Order The Mattering Effect: https://matteringeffect.com/. Take the 90-second diagnostic to see if you're disappearing. Explore the Show: https://passionstruck.com/starter-packs/. New to Passion Struck? Start with the best episodes curated for you. Connect with John Website: https://johnrmiles.comBook John to Speak: https://johnrmiles.com/speaking/Substack: https://www.theignitedlife.net/Children’s Book — You Matter, Luma: https://youmatterluma.com/Support the Movement: https://startmattering.com/. Every human deserves to feel seen, valued, and like they matter. Wear it. Live it. Show it. Passion Struck — #1 Alternative Health Podcast. 85M+ downloads.DisclaimerThe Passion Struck podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of Passion Struck or its affiliates. This podcast is not a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Why You’re Not Changing Even Though You Know What to Do | Mark Manson - EP 808

  2. 5d ago

    Why Other People Have So Much Power Over You | John R. Miles - EP 807

    Why do other people's opinions have so much power over you? You may think your beliefs, opinions, and reactions are entirely your own. But your brain has been quietly keeping score of something much older and more powerful: whether you belong. In this solo episode of Passion Struck, John R. Miles explores the social brain and the survival instinct that shape far more of your life than you realize. Research involving 105 different social groups found an astonishing .95 correlation between what people believed their own communities thought and the prejudices they were willing to express. In other words, belonging can influence what we believe before we even realize it's happening. John then introduces a simple tool called the Mattering Check—one question to ask when you feel yourself becoming defensive, judgmental, or overly concerned with someone's approval: Whose approval am I actually protecting right now? You'll hear John's personal story about spending three months reacting to a comment that was actually meant as a compliment, explore what happens when anti-mattering makes us feel invisible, and discover why a simple interaction with a stranger can create a powerful sense of connection.  You'll learn: Why belonging is a survival need—not simply a desire to fit in. How your social groups can quietly shape what you believe. Why other people's approval can influence your behavior more than you realize. What anti-mattering does to the way you see yourself and other people. How to recognize when you're protecting your status instead of acting from your own values. The Mattering Check and how to use it when you feel triggered or excluded. Why widening your circle of belonging can change how you see other people. One simple action you can take today to help someone else feel seen and significant. The goal isn't to stop caring what other people think. It's to become more conscious of whose voice you're listening to, whose approval you're protecting, and who you are allowing to define your sense of belonging. Because your circle isn't fixed, you can redraw it. Check Full Shownotes Here Download the FREE Companion Digital Workbook Pre-Order The Mattering Effect: https://matteringeffect.com/. Take the 90-second diagnostic to see if you're disappearing. Explore the Show: https://passionstruck.com/starter-packs/. New to Passion Struck? Start with the best episodes curated for you. Connect with John Website: https://johnrmiles.comBook John to Speak: https://johnrmiles.com/speaking/Substack: https://www.theignitedlife.net/Children’s Book — You Matter, Luma: https://youmatterluma.com/Support the Movement: https://startmattering.com/. Every human deserves to feel seen, valued, and like they matter. Wear it. Live it. Show it. Passion Struck — #1 Alternative Health Podcast. 85M+ downloads.DisclaimerThe Passion Struck podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of Passion Struck or its affiliates. This podcast is not a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Why Other People Have So Much Power Over You | John R. Miles - EP 807

  3. 6d ago

    You're Not Losing Time. You're Giving It Away. | Neal Schore – EP 806

    Why do you never have enough time? Most of us assume that feeling overwhelmed is a problem with our calendars. But executive coach and leadership advisor Neal Schore offers a different perspective: much of the time we lose isn't consumed by the tasks themselves. It disappears into our reactions, assumptions, rumination, and the emotional “swirl” that follows difficult moments. In this episode of Passion Struck, John R. Miles sits down with Neal Schore, cofounder and CEO of The 25th Hour Group and author of The 25th Hour, to explore why managing yourself may be more important than managing your schedule. Neal shares the defining experience that changed his relationship with time, explains how emotional reactivity can quietly consume hours of attention, and reveals how pausing, clarifying intent, and asking better questions can transform the way we work, lead, and relate to others. You'll learn: Why we often give away more time to our emotional reactions than to the problems that triggered them. How Neal's defining Lake Michigan experience revealed the personal cost of failing to manage himself. What Neal means by the “25th hour” and where the hidden hours in our days actually go. Why trying to control other people can drain enormous amounts of attention and energy. How emotional “swirl” turns brief interactions into hours of rumination and distraction. Why asking “What's the intent?” can interrupt assumptions and prevent unnecessary conflict. How pausing before responding can create better decisions, stronger relationships, and greater emotional maturity. Why clarifying questions can build massive amounts of trust. How leaders can model emotional maturity and create healthier, more productive cultures. Why creating white space and acknowledging your own progress are essential parts of intentional living. Whether you're struggling to keep up with your responsibilities, navigating difficult relationships, leading a team, or simply wondering where your days keep going, this conversation offers a practical way to rethink time. Neal's message is ultimately about more than productivity: it's about becoming more intentional with the attention, energy, and life you already have. Grab the Full Show Notes [Download the FREE Digital Companion Workbook.] Buy the book: The 25th Hour by Neal Schore Pre-Order The Mattering Effect: https://matteringeffect.com/. Take the 90-second diagnostic to see if you're disappearing. Explore the Show: https://passionstruck.com/starter-packs/. New to Passion Struck? Start with the best episodes curated for you. Connect with John Website: https://johnrmiles.comBook John to Speak: https://johnrmiles.com/speaking/Substack: https://www.theignitedlife.net/Children’s Book — You Matter, Luma: https://youmatterluma.com/Support the Movement: https://startmattering.com/. Every human deserves to feel seen, valued, and like they matter. Wear it. Live it. Show it. Passion Struck — #1 Alternative Health Podcast. 85M+ downloads.DisclaimerThe Passion Struck podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of Passion Struck or its affiliates. This podcast is not a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    You're Not Losing Time. You're Giving It Away. | Neal Schore – EP 806

  4. Aug 11

    Why Don’t Facts Change People’s Minds? | Dr. Jay Van Bavel - EP 805

    Why do good people become so divided? Most of us assume that if people simply had the right facts, they would change their minds. But research tells a different story. More often than not, what shapes our beliefs isn't evidence—it's the groups we belong to and the identities we protect. In this episode of Passion Struck, John R. Miles sits down with renowned social psychologist Dr. Jay Van Bavel, co-author of The Power of Us, to explore the hidden psychology behind polarization, tribalism, and human connection. Drawing on decades of research in social identity, neuroscience, and behavioral science, Dr. Van Bavel explains why our brains prioritize belonging over being right, how social media amplifies division, and why rebuilding trust begins with understanding the powerful forces that shape how we see ourselves—and each other. You'll learn: Why identity often influences our beliefs more than facts. The hidden psychology behind political and social polarization. How belonging shapes the way we think, feel, and make decisions. Why intellectual humility is one of the most important skills in a divided world. How social media and AI reinforce certainty while reducing curiosity. The surprising role of collective joy, shared experiences, and community in overcoming division. Practical ways to build stronger relationships across differences without compromising your values. Why understanding the psychology of "us versus them" is essential for flourishing in today's world. Whether you're trying to navigate difficult conversations, strengthen your relationships, or simply understand why our world feels more divided than ever, this conversation offers a hopeful, science-backed roadmap for building deeper connection, greater empathy, and a stronger sense of belonging. Grab the Full Show Notes Download the FREE Digital Companion Notebook. Buy the book: The Power of Us by Jay Van Bavel and Dominic Packer Pre-Order The Mattering Effect: https://matteringeffect.com/. Take the 90-second diagnostic to see if you're disappearing. Explore the Show: https://passionstruck.com/starter-packs/. New to Passion Struck? Start with the best episodes curated for you. Connect with John Website: https://johnrmiles.comBook John to Speak: https://johnrmiles.com/speaking/Substack: https://www.theignitedlife.net/Children’s Book — You Matter, Luma: https://youmatterluma.com/Support the Movement: https://startmattering.com/. Every human deserves to feel seen, valued, and like they matter. Wear it. Live it. Show it. Passion Struck — #1 Alternative Health Podcast. 85M+ downloads.DisclaimerThe Passion Struck podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of Passion Struck or its affiliates. This podcast is not a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Why Don’t Facts Change People’s Minds? | Dr. Jay Van Bavel - EP 805

  5. Aug 7

    Why You're Not Stuck the Way You Think You Are | John R. Miles - EP 804

    What if the biggest lie you've ever believed is that this is just who you are? Most of us think our personality, habits, fears, and limitations are fixed. We tell ourselves, "I've always been this way," or "I guess this is just who I am." But modern neuroscience tells a very different story. In this solo episode of Passion Struck, John R. Miles explores one of the most hopeful discoveries in brain science: your brain is not a finished product—it's constantly being reshaped by what you repeatedly think, feel, and do. Through remarkable stories of London taxi drivers, the famous case of Phineas Gage, insights from brain health expert Dr. Daniel Amen, and groundbreaking neuroscience from Dr. Richard Davidson and Dr. Cortland Dahl, John reveals why lasting change isn't about finding a breakthrough—it's about changing what you practice every day. You'll learn: Why your brain is constantly changing—even when you don't realize it. The surprising neuroscience behind the phrase "neurons that fire together, wire together." What London taxi drivers can teach us about building new neural pathways. How Dr. Daniel Amen helps patients identify and replace Automatic Negative Thoughts (ANTs). Why practicing positive thinking isn't wishful thinking—it's brain training. What scientists discovered after studying a monk with more than 62,000 hours of meditation practice. The four trainable skills that help build awareness, connection, insight, and purpose. One simple daily practice that can begin reshaping your brain today. If you've ever wondered whether it's too late to change, this episode offers a hopeful reminder: you are not a photograph. You're a sculpture. Every thought you practice, every habit you repeat, and every choice you make is helping shape the person you're becoming. You are not a photograph. You're a sculpture. Grab the Full Shownotes Here. Pre-Order The Mattering Effect: https://matteringeffect.com/. Take the 90-second diagnostic to see if you're disappearing. Explore the Show: https://passionstruck.com/starter-packs/. New to Passion Struck? Start with the best episodes curated for you. Connect with John Website: https://johnrmiles.comBook John to Speak: https://johnrmiles.com/speaking/Substack: https://www.theignitedlife.net/Children’s Book — You Matter, Luma: https://youmatterluma.com/Support the Movement: https://startmattering.com/. Every human deserves to feel seen, valued, and like they matter. Wear it. Live it. Show it. Passion Struck — #1 Alternative Health Podcast. 85M+ downloads.DisclaimerThe Passion Struck podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of Passion Struck or its affiliates. This podcast is not a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    Why You're Not Stuck the Way You Think You Are | John R. Miles - EP 804

  6. Aug 6

    You Were Born to Flourish. Here's the Science That Proves It. | Dr. Richard Davidson & Dr. Cortland Dahl – EP 803

    What if you've spent your whole life believing you needed to become someone different—when the qualities you need have been inside you all along? Most of us think flourishing is something we earn after we've accomplished enough, healed enough, or finally have everything figured out. But what if science says otherwise? In this episode of Passion Struck, John R. Miles sits down with pioneering neuroscientist Dr. Richard Davidson and contemplative scholar Court Dahl to explore the groundbreaking science behind their new book, Born to Flourish. Drawing on decades of neuroscience research, contemplative traditions, and the work inspired by the Dalai Lama, they explain why awareness, connection, insight, and purpose aren't personality traits—they're innate capacities that every human being can strengthen through practice. You'll learn: Why flourishing is part of your nature—not something you have to earn. The surprising neuroscience showing the brain can be trained throughout life. How awareness, connection, insight, and purpose form the four pillars of human flourishing. Why early adversity influences your life without determining your future. What decades of studying long-term meditators have revealed about the human brain. Why flourishing is contagious—and how your presence shapes the people around you. How brief moments of awareness and appreciation can gradually transform your baseline well-being. Practical ways to cultivate resilience, compassion, and purpose in everyday life. If you've ever wondered whether it's possible to become calmer, more connected, and more resilient without changing who you are, this conversation offers a hopeful answer: you don't have to create a better self—you simply have to nurture the one you were born with. Full Shownotes Here. Download the FREE Companion Digital Workbook Pre-Order The Mattering Effect: https://matteringeffect.com/. Take the 90-second diagnostic to see if you're disappearing. Explore the Show: https://passionstruck.com/starter-packs/. New to Passion Struck? Start with the best episodes curated for you. Connect with John Website: https://johnrmiles.comBook John to Speak: https://johnrmiles.com/speaking/Substack: https://www.theignitedlife.net/Children’s Book — You Matter, Luma: https://youmatterluma.com/Support the Movement: https://startmattering.com/. Every human deserves to feel seen, valued, and like they matter. Wear it. Live it. Show it. Passion Struck — #1 Alternative Health Podcast. 85M+ downloads.DisclaimerThe Passion Struck podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of Passion Struck or its affiliates. This podcast is not a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    You Were Born to Flourish. Here's the Science That Proves It. | Dr. Richard Davidson & Dr. Cortland Dahl – EP 803

  7. Aug 4

    How to Protect Your Brain Before It's Too Late | Dr. Daniel Amen – EP 802

    Your brain is changing every single day. The question is: Is it changing for the better or for the worse? Most people don't think about protecting their brain until something goes wrong. But according to renowned psychiatrist and brain health expert Dr. Daniel Amen, the decisions you make every day—from how you sleep and eat to how you manage stress, relationships, and negative thoughts—are either building a healthier brain or slowly damaging it. In this episode of Passion Struck, John R. Miles sits down with Dr. Amen to explore the science of brain health, neuroplasticity, and why you're never stuck with the brain you have. Drawing on decades of research and hundreds of thousands of brain scans, Dr. Amen explains how modern life is rewiring our brains, why mental health begins with brain health, and the practical habits that can improve memory, focus, resilience, and emotional well-being at any age. You'll learn: Why brain health is the foundation of mental health. The everyday habits that quietly damage your brain—and how to avoid them. How chronic stress, trauma, loneliness, and social media reshape the brain. Why automatic negative thoughts can keep you stuck in destructive patterns. The science of neuroplasticity and why it's never too late to create a healthier brain. Dr. Amen's practical strategies for improving memory, focus, and cognitive performance. The surprising connection between purpose, relationships, and long-term brain health. Simple daily choices that can help protect your brain and improve your future. If you've ever wondered whether it's possible to think more clearly, feel better emotionally, or protect your brain as you age, this conversation offers a hopeful, science-backed roadmap for creating lasting change—because you're not stuck with the brain you have. Need sustained focus without another cup of coffee? Try Roon and save up to 64% at takeroon.com/PASSIONSTRUCK with code PASSIONSTRUCK. Full Shownotes Here. Download the FREE Companion Digital Workbook here. Pre-Order The Mattering Effect: https://matteringeffect.com/. Take the 90-second diagnostic to see if you're disappearing. Explore the Show: https://passionstruck.com/starter-packs/. New to Passion Struck? Start with the best episodes curated for you. Connect with John Website: https://johnrmiles.comBook John to Speak: https://johnrmiles.com/speaking/Substack: https://www.theignitedlife.net/Children’s Book — You Matter, Luma: https://youmatterluma.com/Support the Movement: https://startmattering.com/. Every human deserves to feel seen, valued, and like they matter. Wear it. Live it. Show it. Passion Struck — #1 Alternative Health Podcast. 85M+ downloads.DisclaimerThe Passion Struck podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of Passion Struck or its affiliates. This podcast is not a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    How to Protect Your Brain Before It's Too Late | Dr. Daniel Amen – EP 802

  8. Jul 31

    The Person You Become Is the Person You Practice | John R. Miles - EP 801

    Most of us are waiting for the moment everything changes. The breakthrough. The perfect habit. The morning you finally wake up feeling motivated enough to become the person you've always wanted to be. But what if that moment never comes? In this solo episode, John R. Miles challenges one of the biggest myths in personal growth: that transformation happens in an instant. Instead, he reveals why the future version of you is created through the ordinary practices you repeat every single day. Drawing on the timeless Zen teaching of Chop Wood, Carry Water, legendary coach John Wooden's relentless focus on fundamentals, and insights from neuroscientist Dr. Jud Brewer, Stanford behavior scientist BJ Fogg, former Hindu monk Dandapani, and astronaut Chris Cassidy, John explains why your habits don't just shape what you do—they shape who you become. You'll learn: Why breakthroughs rarely create lasting change—and what does instead. The powerful lesson behind the Zen principle Chop Wood, Carry Water. Why John Wooden believed greatness begins with mastering the smallest fundamentals. How your brain rewires itself through repetition, attention, and curiosity. Why Dandapani says, "We are what we practice." The surprising reason presence is a skill you train—not a state you find. BJ Fogg's Tiny Habits method for creating lasting behavior change. The one question that can transform every habit you build: What am I practicing my way toward? If you've been waiting until you feel ready to change your life, this episode will show you why the practice—not the breakthrough—is what changes everything. Check the Full Shownotes Here Download the FREE companion Digital Workbook Pre-Order The Mattering Effect: https://matteringeffect.com/. Take the 90-second diagnostic to see if you're disappearing. Explore the Show: https://passionstruck.com/starter-packs/. New to Passion Struck? Start with the best episodes curated for you. Connect with John Website: https://johnrmiles.comBook John to Speak: https://johnrmiles.com/speaking/Substack: https://www.theignitedlife.net/Children’s Book — You Matter, Luma: https://youmatterluma.com/Support the Movement: https://startmattering.com/. Every human deserves to feel seen, valued, and like they matter. Wear it. Live it. Show it. Passion Struck — #1 Alternative Health Podcast. 85M+ downloads.DisclaimerThe Passion Struck podcast is for educational and entertainment purposes only. The views and opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of Passion Struck or its affiliates. This podcast is not a substitute for professional medical or psychological advice. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    The Person You Become Is the Person You Practice | John R. Miles - EP 801
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4.7
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About

You built the life you were supposed to want. So why doesn't it feel like enough? Passion Struck is the #1 Health and Fitness podcast — and it exists to answer exactly that question. I'm John R. Miles — Navy veteran, former Fortune 50 executive, bestselling author — and I built this show because I lived the "successful but empty" version of life myself, and I wanted to find a better way. Each week, I sit down with the world's top voices in neuroscience, psychology, medicine, and elite performance — including Angela Duckworth, Susan Cain, Robert Waldinger, Daniel Amen, and Ryan Holiday — to unpack what the research tells us about purpose, connection, and resilience, and how to apply it to your own life. Fridays, I share what I'm learning directly, in solo episodes built around the same ideas. New interviews every Tuesday and Thursday. Solo episodes every Friday.

Information

  • Creator
    Passion Struck with John R. Miles
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    809
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2020-2026 John R. Miles
  • Show Website
    Passion Struck with John R. Miles