What Viktor Frankl Taught Us About Finding Meaning in Suffering

In this episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, Stephen and Britain Covey dive into the profound teachings of Viktor Frankl, the legendary Austrian psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor. This episode marks the first in the Legendary Series, where the two highlight timeless authors whose ideas have had a lasting impact. Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning serves as the foundation for a deep exploration of how suffering can be endured when individuals find meaning in it.Frankl’s insights are especially relevant in today’s world, as they demonstrate that even in the darkest circumstances, the human spirit has the power to choose its response. He shows that purpose can provide a lifeline through suffering. Whether navigating personal challenges or seeking deeper fulfillment, Frankl’s wisdom offers transformative guidance.This episode explores two of the most impactful paradigms from Frankl’s work, examining the power of personal freedom in choosing one’s response and the essential role that meaning plays in survival.What We Discuss[00:00] – Introduction to the Legendary Series[02:34] – Who is Viktor Frankl?[03:24] – The Freedom to Choose Your Attitude[06:42] – The Power of the Gap Between Stimulus and Response[13:10] – Finding Meaning in Suffering[15:04] – The Importance of ActionNotable Quotes[05:08] " Everything can be taken from a man, but one thing, the last of the human freedoms. To choose one's attitude in any given set of circumstances to choose one's own way." – Viktor Frankl[07:44] "The most beautiful thing about the human condition is that there’s a space in between stimulus and response. In that gap lies our freedom and our growth." – Britain Covey [17:19] ”This book is a way that can help you realize that there is a meaning, there is a purpose for you in this life. There is something unique for you that only you can do.” – Stephen H. CoveyResourcesParadigm Shifting BooksPodcastInstagram YouTube BookMan’s Search for Meaning by Viktor FranklBritain CoveyLinkedIn InstagramStephen H. CoveyLinkedIn

In this episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, hosts Stephen and Britain Covey dive into the fascinating science behind how habits quietly shape almost half of what we do each day. Joined by The Power of Habit author Charles Duhigg, they explore how cues, routines, and rewards work together to create powerful loops in the brain. By understanding how these loops operate, we can start to take real control over them.Stephen and Britain unpack the “Golden Rule of Habit Change” and explain why relying on willpower alone often doesn’t work. They emphasize that habits can’t simply be erased; they need to be replaced with something new. To bring the science to life, they share personal stories, like Britain’s candy jar detours and how simple tools like phone-locking devices can make a real difference.They also connect Duhigg’s research to the ideas in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People and Atomic Habits, showing how these three books build on one another. This episode is a practical and inspiring listen for anyone who wants to build better habits, break old patterns, and take back control of their daily routines.What We Discuss[00:00] Introduction[00:34] The science of habits[02:34] "The Power of Habit" and foundational habit books[06:57] Why Charles Duhigg wrote "The Power of Habit"[09:18] The challenge of changing habits[12:09] The habit loop: cue, routine, reward[20:58] Awareness as the first step to change[24:43] The golden rule of habit changeNotable Quotes[21:25] "You can’t erase a habit. You can only replace it." – Charles Duhigg[06:25] "We all have these little habits. And some of them are positive, some negative, and some neutral." – Britain Covey[11:30] "Under pressure, you don’t rise to the level of your goals, you fall to the level of your habits." – Stephen CoveyResourcesParadigm Shifting BooksPodcastInstagram YouTube BookThe Power of Habit by Charles DuhiggThe 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. CoveyAtomic Habits by James ClearCharles DuhiggWebsiteInstagramFacebookLinkedInBritain CoveyLinkedIn InstagramStephen H. CoveyLinkedIn

In this episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, Stephen and Britain Covey explore a core principle from Dr. Craig Manning’s The Fearless Mind, how to turn fear into focus. Drawing from Dr. Manning’s work with Olympians, NBA champions, and top business leaders, they unpack the truth that fear cannot be eliminated but it can be reframed and redirected.Britain opens up about one of the most pressure-filled experiences in sports: returning punts in the NFL before a stadium of 80,000 fans. He shares a deeply personal poem, Your Bravest Self, written as a reminder that courage is not the absence of fear, but the choice to move forward despite it. Together, they discuss how learning to carry fear rather than silence it, can unlock calm, clarity, and confidence.They close with three simple, actionable steps inspired by Dr. Manning’s teachings: breathe, anchor, and act. They explain how these can help anyone, whether you are facing a high-stakes meeting, a big presentation, or a defining moment in life.Tune in to discover how to reframe fear as your invitation to focus and perform at your best when it matters most.What We Discuss[00:00] Introduction[00:17] Turning fear into focus from The Fearless Mind[02:22] Britain’s real-life experience facing fear in the NFL[04:33] The poem “Your Bravest Self” and its meaning[08:19] Redirecting fear[10:02] Three steps to turn fear into focus[11:51] Free throw routine analogyNotable Quotes[01:33] “You can't eliminate fear, but you can train your mind to handle it differently.” — Stephen[08:17] “It's okay to feel fear. Stop trying to silence it, stop trying to get rid of it. You just redirect it.” — Britain[09:00] “'I think the best version of you is the one who feels all the fear and the struggle and still goes through it.” — Britain[14:07] “Do not see fear as your enemy. It's your invitation to focus.” — Stephen[10:47] “I literally reminded myself when I was feeling the fear to take a deep breath, anchor myself, and then take action.”— StephenResourcesParadigm Shifting BooksPodcastInstagram YouTube BooksThe Fearless Mind by Dr. Craig ManningThe Man in the Arena speech by Theodore RooseveltBritain CoveyLinkedIn InstagramStephen H. CoveyLinkedIn

In this episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, hosts Stephen and Britain Covey are joined by leadership expert Liz Wiseman, author of ‘Multipliers’. Together, they dive into the powerful principles that distinguish "multipliers", leaders who amplify the intelligence and abilities of others, from "diminishers," who, despite good intentions, unknowingly hold people back. Liz shares her research and experiences, revealing how leadership can either bring out brilliance or unintentionally stifle growth. This conversation highlights how these concepts can apply not only in the workplace but also in teams, families, and everyday life.Stephen and Britain reflect on how these insights have shaped their own approaches to leadership. They discuss the importance of seeing potential in others and creating environments where people feel empowered to contribute their best. Stephen points out that it's not about being the smartest leader, but about finding ways to help others shine, while Britain shares how creating space for both safety and challenge is key to unlocking peak performance. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to foster growth, collaboration, and leadership in all areas of life.What We Discuss[00:00] Introduction[01:23] The Power of Contributorship[04:10] Multipliers vs. Diminishers[13:35] Safety and Stretch: The Core of Leadership[20:10] The Importance of Viewing Genius in Others[22:36] Contribution over CompetitionNotable Quotes[06:34] "Sometimes really, really smart people don't make the best managers." – Liz Wiseman[24:59] "People want to come to work every day wanting to contribute everything that they have." – Liz Wiseman[15:37] "What these leaders do is they create an environment where people feel safe, but then they create stretch." – Liz Wiseman[24:20] "Multipliers believe people are smart, and there is a way they are smart. It's my job to find it and use it." – Liz WisemanResourcesParadigm Shifting BooksPodcastInstagram YouTube BookMultipliers by Liz WisemanLiz WisemanThe Wiseman Group WebsiteInstagramLinkedInBritain CoveyLinkedIn InstagramStephen H. CoveyLinkedIn

In this episode, Stephen and Britain Covey focus on one transformative principle from Greg McKeown’s Essentialism, the 1-2-3 Method. This simple yet profound system is designed to help you cut through distractions and live each day with greater clarity and purpose.The 1-2-3 Method encourages you to choose one essential project to focus on deeply, two urgent and essential tasks that must be completed to stay on track, and three maintenance items that prevent life from spiraling into chaos. Stephen and Britain explore how this daily practice can bring structure to even the busiest schedules.Hear how Britain naturally experiences the 1-2-3 rhythm as a professional athlete through practice, film study, and recovery. Stephen shares how he applies the method both in his work life and on weekends with family, demonstrating that it works in every setting, from corporate offices to family trips to Disneyland.They also address why some critics dismiss the method as “too simple,” and explain why simplicity itself is the secret to its power in a world overloaded with notifications, meetings, and demands. By linking the 1-2-3 Method to James Clear’s Atomic Habits, they show how building the right system helps you succeed even on your hardest days.Tune in and discover how the 1-2-3 Method can help you design your day and lead your life with clarity and purpose.What We Discuss[00:00] Introduction to Paradigm Shifting Books[00:36] Today’s focus: the 1-2-3 method from Essentialism[01:55] Explaining the 1-2-3 method[04:25] Applying the 1-2-3 method in sports[08:50] Real-life examples of the 1-2-3 method[13:45] Final thoughts and challenge to listenersNotable Quotes[00:06:35] “Our schedule is naturally built out for us around this 1, 2, 3 method. In life, I feel like it's a lot harder because we wanna say yes to everything. There's so much gray area in life and we wanna say yes to everything.” — Britain Covey[00:08:25] “If you don't do something like this, and if you're not intentional in the morning when you plan your day, then your day will absolutely be hijacked by other people.” — Stephen Covey[00:11:14] “What's my number one priority today? It's to be present with my kids. That is the number one thing for this Saturday.” — Stephen Covey[00:12:35] “Even for non-work days, you feel like you apply this method.” — Britain Covey[00:13:13] “If you implement some kind of intentional planning system like this in the morning, even on a bad day and you just fall to the level of your base system, you're gonna have a much better day than if you just kind of throw your hands up and say, well, today's out the window.” — Stephen CoveyResourcesParadigm Shifting BooksPodcastInstagram YouTube BooksEssentialism by Greg McKeownAtomic Habits by James ClearBritain CoveyLinkedIn InstagramStephen H. CoveyLinkedIn

In Part 2 of our conversation with social psychologist and best-selling author Amy Cuddy, we delve deeper into the transformative science of presence and its impact on our confidence, success, and personal growth. Known for her groundbreaking TED Talk and book Presence, Amy shares the power of body language and its profound impact on our emotional states and performance. From power poses to overcoming self-doubt, this episode explores practical tools for embracing your personal power, connecting authentically, and overcoming life's challenges with unshakable confidence.Tune in to discover how small changes in posture and mindset can help you tap into your fullest potential when it matters most, whether in the boardroom, on stage, or in daily life. Amy's insights on how our bodies influence our minds and the world around us will leave you empowered to take on any challenge with poise and assurance.What We Discuss:[00:00] Introduction to the Science of Presence[03:00] The concept of power posing and how it affects both our internal confidence and how we are perceived by others.[08:40] Amy discusses how power posing has made its way into popular media, from Ted Lasso to Grey's Anatomy, and what these portrayals teach us about confidence.[13:06] Practical ways to apply power posing and mental visualization techniques in everyday situations to boost personal power.[19:09] Amy reflects on the societal struggle with self-doubt and confidence, offering insights on how we can reconnect with our authentic selves to cultivate true inner power.[28:11] Amy shares a practical exercise to help listeners identify their core values and affirm their true selves for greater confidence and reduced stress.Notable Quotes:[25:59] - “Presence is about getting people to a place where they really see each other and can affirm them in that way.” - Amy Cuddy[26:18] - “When we are present with somebody else, we invite them to be present with us. Genuine attention is so rare, and it’s a gift we can give.” - Amy Cuddy[13:26] - “Confidence isn’t about being perfect. It’s about owning who you are, flaws and all, and embracing the power you already have within you.” - Amy Cuddy[20:59] - “To avoid criticism, do nothing. But when you’re focused on growth, even mistakes become part of your progress.” - Amy CuddyResourcesParadigm Shifting BooksPodcastInstagram YouTube BookPresence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest ChallengesAmy CuddyWebsiteInstagramLinkedInBritain CoveyLinkedIn InstagramStephen H. CoveyLinkedInX

In this first part of a two-part conversation, Amy Cuddy, renowned social psychologist and author of Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges, joins Stephen and Britain Covey to explore the powerful concept of presence. Amy delves into how our ability to bring our authentic, best selves to high-stakes situations, whether it’s a job interview, public speaking, or even sports, can drastically shift our confidence and performance. Drawing on years of research, she explains how presence is not a permanent state but a skill we can develop in order to show up with calm, composure, and confidence when it matters most.Through engaging discussions, Amy shares actionable insights into how we can all embrace our bravest selves during stressful moments, access authentic self-affirmations, and overcome the paralyzing effects of self-doubt and hyperawareness. This episode also explores the science behind self-affirmation theory and how small but powerful mental shifts can improve performance in unrelated challenges. Tune in to discover how cultivating personal power and agency can turn every challenge into an opportunity for growth and success.What We Discuss:[00:00] Introduction[01:57] Defining Presence: Being your authentic self in high-stakes situations[07:04] The role of confidence in preparation: Gaining confidence through training and practice[14:43] Over-preparation and its pitfalls: Finding the balance between preparation and mindset[19:52] How self-affirmation theory impacts performance, even in unrelated situations[29:41] The impact of hyperawareness: How to overcome distractions and perform at your bestNotable Quotes:[02:31] "Presence is about our ability to access and bring forth our authentic, best selves in our most challenging situations." – Amy Cuddy[15:25] "We often have to stop preparing the content or the skill and start preparing our mindset." – Amy Cuddy[29:14] "If we get hung up on what we didn’t do well, we’re less likely to be present the next time." – Amy Cuddy[08:58] "Confidence is not about tricking yourself; it’s about getting out of your own way." – Amy CuddyResourcesParadigm Shifting BooksPodcastInstagram YouTube BookPresence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest ChallengesAmy CuddyWebsiteInstagramLinkedInBritain CoveyLinkedIn InstagramStephen H. CoveyLinkedInX

In this episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, hosts Stephen and Britain Covey continue their thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Craig Manning, author of ‘The Fearless Mind’. In this second part, Dr. Manning expands on how understanding your core identity and staying true to your strengths is the key to unlocking consistent high performance in any area of life. This episode digs deep into the concept of "task orientation" vs. "ego orientation" and how to shift your mindset for success.Dr. Manning, a performance psychologist, provides a masterclass on building mental resilience, explains the profound impact of fear on human performance, and gives practical advice for overcoming insecurity in both professional and personal contexts. Whether you’re an athlete, a business leader, or someone looking to improve everyday performance, the principles discussed here are universally applicable.What We Discuss:[00:00] Introduction[00:17] How task-oriented focus leads to better performance[01:41] Trust is earned through competence, not titles[05:08] How staying present and focused on tasks reduces anxiety and improves performance[15:11] How to overcome insecurity and trust yourself more deeply[17:39] Why focusing on the process, not the outcome, is essential for sustained success[18:26] Dr. Manning’s final advice on embracing your strengths and continuing the journey to self-improvementNotable Quotes:[00:06:45] “When you know who you are and you trust yourself, you don’t care what others think, you just perform.” — Dr. Craig Manning[00:10:29] “Fear is a concept we create. The opposite is learning. A learning mentality opens up new possibilities.” — Dr. Craig Manning[00:13:42] “Focus on the process, not the outcome. The outcome will take care of itself when you execute the process well.” — Dr. Craig Manning[00:19:08] “Flow state is a superpower. Knowing who you are is the gateway to unlocking it.” — Dr. Craig ManningResourcesParadigm Shifting BooksPodcastInstagram YouTube BookThe Fearless Mind: 5 Steps to Achieving Peak PerformanceDr. Craig ManningWebsiteInstagramLinkedInBritain CoveyLinkedIn InstagramStephen H. CoveyLinkedInX

In this episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, hosts Stephen and Britain Covey begin a powerful two-part conversation with Dr. Craig Manning, author of The Fearless Mind. Part 1 unpacks why knowing who you truly are and unapologetically embracing your strengths is the foundation of consistent high performance.Dr. Manning shares his journey from athlete to performance psychologist, explains why he reframed “high performance” as human performance, and reveals how to build skills around your unique strengths instead of chasing someone else’s path. From the science of confidence to stories of elite athletes like Giannis Antetokounmpo scoring 50 points in the NBA Finals, this conversation makes mental performance training both practical and inspiring.The episode also highlights how the same principles apply outside of sports, in business, leadership, and everyday life. Because at its core, high performance isn’t about outcomes, it’s about identity.If you’ve ever felt the weight of comparison, pressure from authority figures, or uncertainty about your strengths, this episode offers a new framework to unlock your potential.What We Discuss[00:00] Introduction[01:27] Why Dr. Manning wrote The Fearless Mind and how it began as a personal project[08:18] Giannis Antetokounmpo’s “unapologetically ourselves” mindset before scoring 50 in the NBA Finals[11:19] Why comparison leads to insecurity and how to break free from it[22:32] Generational shifts: why Gen Z thinks differently and how collaboration beats hierarchy[30:39] Why trying to be someone you’re not sabotages performance[32:05] The power of owning your lane in a collaborative, commitment-based cultureNotable Quotes[00:08:54] “When you know who you are and you trust yourself, you don’t care what others think—you just perform.” — Dr. Craig Manning[00:11:37] “Comparison leads to insecurities. Insecurities lead to needing approval. And needing approval destroys confidence.” — Dr. Craig Manning[00:14:42] “The key to success is not being a stereotype. It’s being the best version of yourself.” — Dr. Craig Manning[00:22:07] “Your identity is here in the present. Too many people live out in the future, and that future never arrives.” — Dr. Craig ManningResourcesParadigm Shifting BooksPodcastInstagram YouTube BookThe Fearless Mind: 5 Steps to Achieving Peak PerformanceDr. Craig ManningWebsiteInstagramLinkedInBritain CoveyLinkedIn InstagramStephen H. CoveyLinkedInX

Despite rapid changes in the workplace and technological advancements, many leaders continue to rely on outdated “command and control” methods.In this episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, hosts Stephen and Britain Covey continue their powerful conversation with their father, Stephen M. R. Covey, about his groundbreaking book Trust and Inspire. Part 2 of the discussion dives even deeper into how leaders can shift their mindset, their language, and their relationships to become the kind of leader people actually want to follow.Stephen explores the difference between managing things and leading people, the practical application of stewardship agreements, and how even in moments of pressure, when our “style gets in the way of our intent”, we can choose to lead with trust and inspiration. From stories about Steve Jobs and Lin-Manuel Miranda to personal family experiences, this conversation makes Trust and Inspire practical, relatable, and transformational.The episode also highlights how trust and inspire leadership apply far beyond the workplace, in parenting, teaching, coaching, and everyday relationships. Because at its core, leadership isn’t a position, it’s a choice.If you’ve ever wondered how to balance accountability with empowerment, or how to unleash the potential already inside your team, this episode offers the roadmap.What We Discuss[00:17] Introduction[01:29] Steve Jobs and the tension between inspiration and micromanagement[07:00] Command and control as the “native tongue” of leadership[08:07] Becoming a Trust and Inspire person before becoming a leader[10:16] The difference between management and leadership[16:00] Lin-Manuel Miranda’s teacher and the power of seeing potential[19:04] Why Trust and Inspire is not just idealistic, but practical[25:13] Practical steps: clarifying expectations and accountability[32:30] A practical invitation: identify one relationship to transform with Trust and InspireNotable Quotes[13:00] “Always remember this: with people, fast is slow and slow is fast.” — Stephen M. R. Covey[17:22] “Leadership is seeing and communicating people’s worth and potential so clearly that they come to see it in themselves.” — Stephen M. R. Covey[33:50] “Trust and Inspire is not soft leadership. It’s the strongest form of leadership there is because it’s grounded in expectations, accountability, and belief in people.” — Stephen M. R. CoveyResourcesParadigm Shifting BooksPodcastInstagram YouTube BooksTrust and Inspire by Stephen M. R. CoveyThe SPEED of Trust by Stephen M. R. CoveyThe 8th Habit by Stephen R. CoveyStephen M. R. CoveyLinkedInInstagramBritain CoveyLinkedIn InstagramStephen H. CoveyLinkedInX