The Science of Presence: Unlocking Confidence When It Matters Most (Part 1) with Amy Cuddy

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

Did you know that despite the changing workplace dynamics and technological advancements, many leaders still adhere to outdated "command and control" models?In this episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, hosts Stephen and Britain Covey sit down once again with their father, Stephen M. R. Covey, to dive into his book Trust and Inspire. They explore why so many leaders are still stuck in an outdated “command and control” model, even though the world, the workforce, and the nature of collaboration have changed dramatically.Stephen explains the origins of the Trust and Inspire framework, rooted in his work with The Speed of Trust and inspired by lessons from his father, Stephen R. Covey. He shares the core leadership paradigm shifts that move organizations from micromanaging to unleashing the greatness already inside their people.The conversation tackles common misconceptions, like the idea that Trust and Inspire is “soft” or unrealistic in high-pressure industries. With real-world examples from football coaching, Fortune 500 companies like Microsoft, retail standouts like Wegmans, and even the military, Stephen shows that this leadership style delivers results without sacrificing accountability.One of the big takeaways: leadership isn’t just about getting results, it’s about growing people, building trust, and inspiring them to give their very best. And that’s not just idealistic; it’s a competitive advantage.What We Discuss[00:17] Introduction[02:04] Origins of Trust and Inspire[05:53] Key leadership paradigm shifts[12:02] What Trust and Inspire is and isn’t[15:35] Strong leadership without micromanaging[20:09] Authenticity in leadership styles[22:00] Global response to Trust and Inspire[24:31] From idealism to practical application[29:45] Thriving cultures and unleashing greatnessNotable Quotes[13:35] “Trust and Inspire is a style of leadership that gets results in a way that grows people and inspires trust.” — Stephen M. R. Covey[16:06] “A Trust and Inspire leader can be strong without being forceful. They can be demanding without being demeaning.” — Stephen M. R. Covey[20:10] “The key thing is I see the greatness inside of people. I try to unleash it, but that might include being demanding.” — Stephen M. R. Covey[29:55] “Inspiring is learnable as a skill, that's like a paradigm shift.” — 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

In this episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, hosts Stephen and Britain Covey dive into The Four Disciplines of Execution by Chris McChesney, Sean Covey, and Jim Huling — joined by Chris McChesney himself to share insights firsthand. Together, they break down how the book’s core ideas of focusing on what really matters, tracking the right actions, using simple scoreboards, and sticking to regular check-ins can make a huge difference not just in business, but in everyday life, family routines, and even sports.Stephen and Britain point out something a lot of us feel: execution often falls apart because of human nature. But instead of just blaming ourselves, the fix is setting up systems that keep us on track. They share real, relatable examples, like how a sales team stayed motivated with a basic scoreboard or how NFL teams zoom in on just a few key plays to win big games.One big idea they keep coming back to is this: sometimes what seems like a “people problem” is actually a “system problem.” Britain talks about his time in the NFL and how practicing under pressure helped him stay cool when it really counted. Stephen shares how a weekly review habit helps him stay focused on what matters most.The episode is packed with practical takeaways, but one stands out. Choose just one area in your life that feels a bit out of control, give it some focused attention like it’s in the ICU, and apply these simple, proven disciplines to start seeing real results.What We Discuss[00:17] Introduction[01:13] Overview of the four disciplines[03:34] Origins of the book & methodology[05:24] Is execution a people or systems problem?[11:30] Rifle vs. shotgun: The power of focus[12:17] Intensive care metaphor for prioritization[15:35] The power of a scoreboard[19:13] Accountability & weekly commitments[21:18] Ownership and buy-in[23:08] Sports example: Accountability from top players[24:20] Summary & key paradigm shiftsNotable Quotes[00:04:24] “We were trying to solve the problem, not write a book” — Chris McChesney[00:08:48] “I really genuinely  feel like practicing helped me control and relax my body when I came to high-pressure situations in other sports.” — Britain Covey[00:10:54] “If I have my weekly review and do that habit, I’m much more likely to focus on my biggest priorities for that week because I block it out in advance.” — Stephen Covey[00:11:30] “What the Four Disciplines of Execution is, is it’s a rifle, not a shotgun.” — Chris McChesney[00:15:35] “People play very differently when they’re keeping score.” — Chris McChesneyResourcesParadigm Shifting BooksPodcastInstagram YouTube BooksThe 4 Disciplines of ExecutionAtomic Habits by James ClearGetting Things Done by David AllenBritain CoveyLinkedIn InstagramStephen H. CoveyLinkedIn

In this episode, Stephen and Britain Covey dive into Crucial Conversations by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler. This book completely changes the way we think about tough conversations.We’re talking about those moments when tensions rise, opinions clash, and saying the wrong thing feels risky. Stephen and Britain unpack why we tend to avoid these talks, how the stories we tell ourselves can mess with our emotions, and why cutting down on lag time, the delay between noticing a problem and actually addressing it can make such a difference in both relationships and organizations.You’ll also hear from Joseph Grenny himself, who joined the conversation to share how the lessons in Crucial Conversations show up in real life, from business to family to personal leadership. He explains what most people get wrong in high-stakes conversations and how to approach them with courage and clarity.From business meetings to NFL locker rooms, this episode is packed with real-life examples that show just how powerful these tools can be. You’ll come away with practical ideas to reduce lag time, handle conflict better, stay calm under pressure, and communicate with more clarity and confidence.Tune in, and get ready to change the way you handle your next tough conversation.What We Discuss[00:00] Introduction to Paradigm Shifting Books[01:49] The impact of lag time[03:53] Consequences of avoiding conversations[06:50] Three stages of crucial conversations[12:11] Mastering your story[16:33] Moving past unhelpful stories[17:45] Defining success with purpose[20:30] The hedonic treadmill and lasting fulfillment[22:38] Paradigm shifts and key takeawaysNotable Quotes[01:52] “The health of relationships, the health of teams, even the health of entire organizations can be largely predicted by one simple thing, and that is the average lag time between when people see something and when they say something.” — Joseph Grenny[07:26] “Effective, crucial conversations aren't about some kind of esoteric diplomatic skills. It's not cobbling together the right combination of words to get past somebody's defenses. It really is about where you're coming from.” — Joseph Grenny[17:46] “The way to be successful is to make sure that you're defining success in purposeful terms, not just in terms of an exit and building an organization or rising to a certain place in an organization.” — Joseph GrennyResourcesParadigm Shifting BooksPodcastInstagram YouTube BooksCrucial Conversations by Joseph Grenny, Kerry Patterson, Ron McMillan, and Al SwitzlerThe Power of Now by Eckhart TolleStart With Why by Simon SinekJoseph GrennyLinkedInWebsiteBritain CoveyLinkedIn InstagramStephen H. CoveyLinkedIn

In a world that glorifies talent and quick wins, this episode of Paradigm Shifting Books offers a refreshing take on what true success requires. Stephen and Britain Covey revisit Angela Duckworth’s Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance, exploring how real achievement isn’t about being born gifted; it’s about loving what you do enough to keep showing up.Through personal stories, from NFL training to parenting challenges, they unpack Duckworth’s core message: grit is the blend of long-term passion and perseverance. It’s not about grinding for the sake of it, but about aligning your effort with what matters most.They challenge the myth of talent, reflect on how passion develops gradually through exploration, and offer honest insights about raising resilient kids in a world that wants to cushion every fall. They also explore how grit doesn’t diminish happiness; it deepens it. When your effort aligns with your values, fulfillment follows.Whether you’re navigating your own career path, helping your kids build resilience, or simply trying to stay consistent with your goals, this episode will shift how you think about success. Grit isn’t just about surviving the hard days; it’s about being fueled by purpose through all of them. Tune in and discover what grit really looks like in action.What We Discuss[00:00:02] Introduction[00:01:31] Redefining grit: Passion and perseverance[00:05:27] Developing passion over time[00:10:55] The romance and reality of talent[00:14:44] Effort vs. talent at the highest levels[00:18:47] Fixed traits vs. malleable qualities[00:24:16] Parenting tips for grit: Letting kids struggle[00:29:17] Grit and happiness: Avoiding burnout[00:32:13] Living with integrity and alignmentNotable Quotes[01:31] “I define grit as the combination of perseverance and passion for long-term goals. It's not just about brute force; it's more about loving what you do for a very long time.” — Angela Duckworth[05:27] “The development of a passion is probably a better way to phrase this process than the discovery of a passion. Most of us grow into, develop, mature, and evolve into our eventual passions.” — Angela Duckworth[14:17] “So much of our success in life is really about what we do and not about what we were born with. It's the long, hard road to climb, but that's the truth of it.” — Angela Duckworth[29:49] “Happiness and grit are compatible. The moments in my life where I have felt the most good are when everything is lined up, that what I do well is good for others.” — Angela DuckworthResourcesParadigm Shifting BooksPodcastInstagram YouTube Britain CoveyLinkedIn InstagramStephen H. CoveyLinkedInMentioned Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela DuckworthWritings of Epictetus (Ancient Roman Stoic Philosopher)

In this episode, Stephen and Britain Covey dive into Getting Things Done (GTD) by David Allen, a groundbreaking book that redefines productivity. They explore how GTD isn’t just about checking off tasks but about creating a trusted system to free your mind, reduce stress, and focus on what truly matters.  Stephen shares his personal connection with David Allen, having worked closely with him early in his career. Together, they unpack the core principles of GTD, from "appropriate engagement" to the five-step workflow, and how these concepts can transform your work, relationships, and daily life.  Through engaging storytelling and practical insights, this episode challenges the traditional view of productivity and offers a paradigm shift for managing your mind and tasks with clarity. Let's jump in!What We Discuss[00:00] Introduction[05:44] Appropriate engagement: clear mind ⇒ full presence[09:13] Structure × freedom on the playing field[13:15] GTD as an “installed thought-process” for teams[17:37] The 5 steps: Capture · Clarify · Organize · Reflect · Engage[25:36] Next-action thinking stops mental “open loops”[28:52] Procrastination: signal of high stakes, not laziness[32:59] Paradigm shifts: presence over productivity & minds for ideasNotable Quotes[05:44] “The methodology is about being appropriately engaged with your life… Are you appropriately engaged with your cat? …with your career and your future?” — David Allen[07:05] “Productivity has a lot of baggage: work harder, sweat harder, clock more hours… Real productivity is doing what clears your mind so you can stay focused and present.” — David Allen[19:15] “Your brain is a crappy office—it can juggle about four things before it’s hijacked by the latest and loudest.” — David Allen[25:36] “If you haven’t nailed the next physical, visible action, you haven’t finished thinking—so your mind keeps looping: What about the Saturday meeting? The cat food?” — David AllenResourcesParadigm Shifting BooksPodcastInstagram YouTube BooksGetting Things Done by David AllenDeep Work — Cal NewportFour Thousand— Oliver BurkemanDavid AllenWebsiteBritain CoveyLinkedIn InstagramStephen H. CoveyLinkedIn

In this episode, Stephen and Britain Covey spotlight one of the most transformational ideas from The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Habit 1: Be Proactive. Featuring rare, archival audio from Stephen R. Covey himself, this episode explores the foundational mindset behind personal growth, empowerment, and leadership.Stephen R. Covey’s voice rings through decades to offer one of the most important paradigm shifts: that between what happens to us and how we respond, there lies our ultimate freedom. With stories from Viktor Frankl to frontline caregivers to corporate leaders, the episode shows how taking responsibility isn’t just a behavioral shift, it’s a life-altering lens for viewing the world.Whether you’re navigating career setbacks, relational challenges, or societal pressures, this episode will help you reclaim your agency and expand your influence.What We Discuss[00:00] Introduction to power principle episodes[01:09] The legacy of Stephen R. Covey and Habit 1.[03:03] Viktor Frankl and the last human freedom[07:26] Why taking ownership is empowering, not daunting[08:56] Circle of Concern vs. Circle of Influence[10:19] The rise of Ben: How one proactive employee changed everythingNotable Quotes"Between stimulus and response is a space. In that space lies our power and our freedom to choose our response." — Stephen R. Covey"Your life is a product of your values, not your feelings... your decisions, not your conditions." — Stephen R. Covey"Proactive people work on the inner circle. Reactive people focus on the outer circle." — Stephen R. CoveyResourcesParadigm Shifting BooksPodcastInstagram YouTube BooksThe 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R, CoveyBritain CoveyLinkedIn InstagramStephen H. CoveyLinkedIn