Growth Spurt: Permission to Be Human

Episode 387: Transitioning from Doing the Work to Developing People

In this episode, Drs. Milt Lowder and Drew Brannon explore one of the most challenging transitions in any organization: moving from individual contributor to leader. They discuss why success in a role doesn't always translate to success in leadership, the mindset shifts required to lead others well, and the common mistakes organizations make when promoting talent. Whether you're considering a leadership role or developing future leaders, this conversation offers practical insights on redefining success, serving a team, and leading with humility.

Growth Spurt: When Stress Makes You Selfish

In this Growth Spurt, Dr. Milt Lowder explores how stress narrows our focus, pulls us away from what matters most, and can unintentionally disconnect us from others. Drawing on the science of the brain's stress response, Milt explains why stress often makes us more self-focused; he shares how awareness, gratitude, and joy can help us regain perspective and reconnect with our purpose.

Episode 386: Building Better Organizations with Dr. Alissa Zawacki

Dr. Drew Brannon welcomes the newest AMPLOS team member, Dr. Alissa Zawacki, for a conversation about industrial-organizational psychology and what it takes to help people and organizations thrive. Together, they explore common workplace challenges, including hiring, performance management, employee feedback, and organizational culture. Alissa shares why clarity, structure, and thoughtful systems matter when developing people, while highlighting practical ways leaders can create healthier, more effective workplaces where both employees and organizations can grow.

Growth Spurt: What the World Cup Teaches Us About Teamwork

As the World Cup brings together some of the world's most talented athletes, Dr. Milt Lowder explores what makes great teams truly successful. From sacrificing individual roles for a shared mission to navigating adversity together, this Growth Spurt examines the power of pursuing a worthy goal alongside others. What are you building, who is on your team, and how can you contribute to something bigger than yourself?

Episode 385: Training Your Mind to Sleep

In this episode, Dr. Gabby Caviedes and Anthony Alibro explore why racing thoughts, worry, and problem-solving often keep us awake, even when we're exhausted. Drawing from sport and performance psychology, they share practical strategies for building a better bedtime routine, including mental imagery, diaphragmatic breathing, worry journaling, and gratitude practices. Learn how to stop trying to force sleep and start training your mind to make rest come more naturally.