Ep. 15 - When Work Isn't Working

Ep. 15 - When Work Isn't Working

In this episode, we're talking about what happens when your job stops working for you — whether you're burned out, stuck in golden handcuffs, facing layoffs, or just feeling that nagging sense that something needs to change. Drawing on burnout research, positive psychology, and the concept of resonance, this episode explores why so many people are miserable at work and why simply jumping to the next job rarely solves the deeper problem. If you're at a career crossroads, this episode walks you through three practical steps: understanding your misalignment, listening to what actually resonates with you, and making a real plan to get there — even if you can't leave tomorrow. Three practical steps are offered in this episode: 1. Understand your misalignment — identify the lack of resonance, the feelings (anger, sadness, powerlessness), and what's keeping you stuck 2. Listen to what resonates — revisit what you love, your skills, your values; consider writing a personal mission statement 3. Make a plan — even if you can't act yet, set a vision and chart practical steps toward it

Ep. 14 - Nothing New Will Ever Happen

Garth begins with a strangely personal encounter that turns out not to be what it seems, using it as a doorway into the often-overlooked power of our inner world. From there, he explores why the stories we tell ourselves about "good" and "bad" outcomes can quietly run our lives, and how a steadier posture—more open, less certain—can protect meaning, confidence, and mental health. He contrasts outcome-chasing with living from a deeper internal mission, drawing from work, relationships, and his experience as co-founder of Shared Space For All [https://sharedspaceforall.com], to show how easily we get thrown off course. Along the way, he points to a simple practice for loosening judgment and preference, arguing that without it we stay trapped in familiar loops—because if we keep labeling everything the same way, nothing new will ever happen.

Ep. 13 - The Necessity of Failure

In this episode of Mission Success, host Garth Neufeld discusses the often avoided topic of failure. Garth emphasizes the importance of recognizing, understanding, and learning from everyday failures as a crucial element of personal and professional growth. He outlines the steps to normalize and welcome failure, turning it into an opportunity for transformation. The episode also explores how our perceptions of failure are influenced by society, and provides guidance on whether a therapist or coach might be suitable to help navigate failure. Ultimately, Garth encourages listeners to embrace failures as a path to becoming more successful and grounded individuals. *Portions of these show notes were created with AI. 00:00 Welcome to Mission Success 00:24 The Uncomfortable Topic of Failure 02:03 Defining and Understanding Failure 06:53 The Cultural Silence on Failure 14:32 The Paradox of Failure and Growth 15:16 How to Fail Better: Practical Steps 19:17 Normalizing and Welcoming Failure 33:20 Developing Skills to Handle Failure 38:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Ep. 12 - Let's Get Real: Authenticity, Inspiration, and Growth

In this episode, Garth gets real, discussing his approach to New Year's resolutions, the importance of authenticity, and the challenge of maintaining inspiration and motivation. He explores the phases of psychological and spiritual development, the impact of great love and suffering, and the role of mentorship and teaching in personal growth. Garth also delves into the nuanced views on AI, the value of deep conversations, and the therapeutic benefits of comedy and laughter.

Ep. 11 - Coaching for Leadership Success: Dr. Ken Carter, Emory University

In this episode of Mission: Success, host Garth Neufeld interviews Dr. Ken Carter about the transformative power of coaching. They discuss Dr. Carter's unexpected journey into a significant leadership role at Emory University, the invaluable support a professional coach provided him, and the broader implications for personal and professional growth. Their conversation highlights the importance of recognizing one's strengths, seeking support, and overcoming the imposter phenomenon to achieve long-term success. Tune in to understand how coaching can be a game changer for leaders.