
Learn or Be Learned
Shiva Dhana | Dhana Studios

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Goodpods has curated a list of the 10 best Learn or Be Learned episodes, ranked by the number of listens and likes each episode have garnered from our listeners. If you are listening to Learn or Be Learned for the first time, there's no better place to start than with one of these standout episodes. If you are a fan of the show, vote for your favorite Learn or Be Learned episode by adding your comments to the episode page.

104. Exploring Masculinity, Somatic Therapy, and Loneliness Solutions ft. Jason Lange
Learn or Be Learned
06/11/24 • 66 min
Explore the depths of men's mental health, consciousness, and somatic healing. Jason shares his transformative journey and offers powerful insights into overcoming loneliness and building meaningful connections. This episode is packed with wisdom and practical advice to help you better understand and navigate your inner world.
Summary Jason Lange discusses the transformative impact of somatic work, consciousness, and community on men's mental health. Learn how to overcome loneliness and build emotional resilience with practical insights from Jason's journey.
Key Takeaways
- Embrace Emotions: Turning towards your emotions rather than resisting them can lead to profound healing and transformation.
- Value Community: Building strong, supportive communities is crucial for men's mental health and emotional well-being.
- Somatic Practices: Incorporating somatic work into daily routines can help release stored tension and trauma, leading to a more connected and fulfilling life.
Noteworthy Quotes
- Shiva Dhanasekar (00:45:27): "Our relationship to ourselves evokes how other people relate to us. If we carry a certain view of ourselves, we bring that into every interaction."
- Jason Lange (00:50:18): "These energies exist outside of human beings. The deep desert evokes a certain kind of energy, while the rainforest evokes another. Understanding these energies helps us navigate life."
- Shiva Dhanasekar (01:04:21): "Being present in the moment, taking the full experience of today because yesterday's already gone and tomorrow's not guaranteed. The only thing you can truly embrace is the now."
Names, Materials, and Info Dropped in this Ep.
- Ken Wilber - An American philosopher mentioned as a significant influence mentioned at (04:41 - 05:37)
- David Deida - Author of "Way of the Superior Man"- Mentioned as a significant work influencing thoughts on masculinity and feminine energy. (35:19 - 36:35)
- Shinzen Young - Meditation teacher mentioned at (01:00:00 - 01:00:59)
Timestamps 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:02:11 - Jason's Personal Journey 00:06:37 - Discovering Somatic Work 00:12:45 - Turning Towards Emotions 00:21:53 - Importance of Community (00:33:23) - Effects of Isolation 00:45:27 - Relationship to Self 01:04:21 - Final Insights and Wisdom
Jason Lange's Info: Jason is a men's embodiment coach, group facilitator, and evolutionary guide.
My Information
Click Here for My YouTube Channel
Click Here to Review Me on Apple
Click Here for Show Notes, Tips & More
Email: [email protected]
Thank you so much for listening, and I hope this time you invested with me provided you with fruitful returns.
Remember Friends,
"You either learn from or you're learned from!"
Shiva D.

125. 5 Reasons You’re Stuck (And How to Fix It)
Learn or Be Learned
02/03/25 • 25 min
Stuck. Lost. Trapped in the same cycle, no matter how much you plan, learn, or dream. If you’ve ever felt this way, you’re not alone. In this episode, **Shiva Dhana** unpacks the hidden forces that keep people stuck—overthinking, fear, identity struggles, scattered focus, and the illusion of motivation—while revealing how to break free. Through personal stories of his own crossroads, from leaving medicine to navigating uncertainty and rebuilding from scratch, he shares the mindset shifts and strategies that helped him move forward. Whether it’s conquering perfectionism, silencing the fear of judgment, or mastering the power of small, consistent actions, this episode is packed with insights to help you escape stagnation and build momentum. If you're ready to stop spinning your wheels, tune in and start rewriting your story.
Top 5 Takeaways from This Episode
1. Overthinking & Perfectionism Keep You Stuck – The need to get everything "just right" can paralyze action. Instead of obsessing over perfection, focus on consistent progress. Done is better than perfect.
2. Fear of Judgment is Just a Projection – Worrying about what others think can stop you from moving forward. Most criticism comes from people who aren’t taking action themselves—don’t let their fears become yours.
3. Identity Shapes Your Success – You don’t just *do* things; you *become* the type of person who naturally does them. Instead of setting goals like “read 24 books,” aim to *become* a reader. Identity shifts create lasting change.
4. One Goal at a Time Wins the Game – Trying to do everything at once leads to burnout and failure. Prioritize a single focus, master it, then move to the next. Success compounds.
5. Gamify & Systematize Your Growth – Motivation is unreliable, but systems work. Turn daily tasks into a game, track small wins, and create habits that make progress automatic. Momentum builds through action, not waiting for inspiration.
My Information Instagram:
Review Me on Apple
Share a Link to My Podcast Thank you so much for listening, and I hope this time you invested with me provided you with fruitful returns. Remember Friends, "You either learn from or you're learned from!" - Shiva D.
Keywords
stuck, personal growth, overcoming fear, identity, goal setting, motivation, analysis paralysis, self-improvement, mental health, productivity

74. This Belgian Therapist Shares How to Unlock the DNA for Your Future: Self-Reflection and Shaping Tomorrow ft. Tom Meyers
Learn or Be Learned
08/08/23 • 65 min
Ever felt overwhelmed by the sheer volume of choices life throws at you? Dive into this riveting episode of the "Learn or Be Learn" podcast, where Shiva D. and Tom Mayers, a renowned osteopath, and body-centered stress coach/therapist, unravel the art of making decisions in a new digital age of overwhelming choices. Tom delves deep into the 'DNA of the future concept—a principle that stands unwavering amidst life's constant changes. Discover how looking back can be the key to moving forward with purpose, and how environmental stimuli can shape one's life. Tom shares his personal journey, emphasizing the significance of building a stable foundation amidst changing times and more...
Summary
In this enlightening episode, host Shiva Dhanasekar and guest Tom Mayers embark on a journey to explore the intricate relationship between our past, present, and future. With his profound insights, Tom emphasizes the significance of self-reflection and understanding one's roots to navigate the maze of life's decisions. They discuss the paradox of choice in today's world and how the DNA of the future—elements that remain unchanged over time—can serve as a guiding light. Through personal anecdotes and thought-provoking discussions, they shed light on the importance of building a stable foundation in an ever-evolving world. Whether you're at a crossroads in life or simply seeking deeper understanding, this episode promises a fresh perspective on shaping your future with clarity and conviction.
Episode Key Takeaways:
- The DNA of the future is based on elements that do not change over time.
- Self-reflection is crucial to understand one's aspirations and potential.
- Environmental stimuli play a significant role in how an individual expresses themselves.
- The past serves as a great teacher, helping individuals shape their future.
- The concept of "analysis paralysis" and the importance of making choices based on one's core beliefs.
Timestamps:
- 0:00 - Introduction to the episode's theme.
- 2:07 - Introduction of guest Tom Meyers.
- 6:03 - Connection between the past and shaping the future.
- 13:14 - The concept of "DNA of the future."
- 20:07 - The importance of reflection in future decisions.
- 23:35 - How therapy has evolved
Meaningful Quotes:
1. "Our generation has too much choice, and not choosing is also a choice." - Tom Mayers
2. "Sometimes we need to go into the past. The most important thing is to find what drives us. The answers can be found in analyzing the past and the present." - Tom Mayers
3. "So you're saying if someone is stagnant or paralyzed by choice, it's often because they still need to put in some self-reflection work, figure out those building blocks." - Shiva Dhanasekar
4. "My life has been based on a DNA of the future. DNA stands for does not alter." - Tom Mayers
5. "When you don't know where you're going, you can't make the right decision if somebody gives you an opportunity." - Tom Mayers
These quotes provide a deeper insight into the core themes discussed in the episode, emphasizing the importance of self-reflection, understanding the past, and making informed decisions for the future.
My Information:
Podcast Link Page: www.solo.to/shivadhana
Instagram: @shivadhana
Email | [email protected]
Video Podcast on YouTube: Click Here for YouTube Channel
Apple Ratings & Reviews: Click Here for Apple Podcasts
Show Notes, Tips & More: Click Here for Linkedin Page
Share a link to my podcast: Click Here for a Link to Podcast Platform Selections
Thank you so much for listening, and I hope this time you invested provided a fruitful return. Remember Friends,
"You either learn from or you're learned from!"
- Shiva D.

96. Learn the 5 Elements of Success: Building Expertise, Confidence and Finding Your Passion
Learn or Be Learned
02/18/24 • 63 min
Discover the secrets to success, health, and happiness on this fascinating episode of the Learn or Be Learned podcast. Host Shiva Dhanasekar sits down with guest Craig Cook, a bestselling author and former CEO who overcame diabetes through martial arts and mindset training. Listen in as Craig shares his incredible journey from neglecting his health while growing a multi-million dollar business, to reversing his diabetes and finding a new passion through Chinese energy medicine. With insightful discussions on entrepreneurial mindsets, self-care strategies, and the importance of balance, this episode is sure to inspire and motivate listeners seeking wisdom on achieving life success and fulfillment.
Summary
In this engaging episode of the Learn or Be Learned podcast, host Shiva Dhanasekar interviews entrepreneur and bestselling author Craig Cook about his diverse experiences in business, health, and personal growth. Craig shares his story of building a successful marketing agency over 26 years before selling it, only to receive a diabetes diagnosis that motivated him to overhaul his lifestyle. He discusses reversing his diabetes naturally through martial arts, meditation and a holistic approach. Craig also offers valuable insights into mindsets for entrepreneurial success based on his studies in Chinese medicine. Listeners will walk away with actionable lessons on achieving balance, developing passion and expertise, and prioritizing self-care and relationships above all other measures of success.
Key Take Aways
- Find your passion and balance the five elements of entrepreneurial success: passion, discipline, expertise, confidence and faith. Developing these mindset traits will help you overcome challenges and thrive in business or any endeavor.
- Prioritize self-care and never neglect your health, as it directly impacts relationships, energy levels and life satisfaction. Craig's story shows how making lifestyle changes can reverse serious health issues like diabetes.
- Quality relationships are more important than material gains. Strive for balance across health, finances and personal connections to find true happiness, freedom and the ability to fully enjoy life.
Meaningful Quotes
- "You either learn from or you learn from now, let's get back to the ship." - Shiva Dhanasekar, Host, [0:01:38]
- "I think we have a few parallels in interest here. And I'm really excited to have you. I think we have a few parallels in interest here. And I'm really excited to have you." - Shiva Dhanasekar, Host, [0:02:09]
- "It sure is. I tell my wife in the early days as I was doing the lifestyle change. I just kept telling her ah, diabetes sucks.com Probably has that URL, you know, yeah. Yeah, I've never looked it up. But you know, that's what I would say just because it was like, oh, man, because he Yeah, like you said it was it's hard to go the other direction." - Craig Cooke, Guest, [0:26:21]
Timestamps
- (0:00:00) - Introduction
- 0:09:30 - Marketing evolution over
- 0:16:06 - Health journey
- 0:22:34 - Qigong, martial arts
- 0:26:21 - Reversing naturally, medication
- 0:31:20 - Five Elements
- 0:44:27 - Interdisciplinary passions
- 0:51:10 - Focusing on one area
- 0:56:54 - Relationships, self-care
- 1:02:14 - Achieving balance
Craig Cooke's Information:
My Information
Podcast Link Page: www.solo.to/shivadhana
Instagram: @shivadhana

67. The Blueprint Finding your Dream Home ft. Nithin Thomas and Ramu Velu (Miniseries 4/6)
Learn or Be Learned
04/05/23 • 23 min
Are you interested in adopting a successful real estate investment mindset? Tune in to the Learn or Be Learned podcast miniseries "Tapping into Money Psychology and Real Estate", hosted by the dynamic Shiva Dhanasekar. Joining her are two highly experienced guests, Ramu Velu from Velu Holdings LLC and Nithin Thomas from Nithin Thomas Consulting Co, who bring a wealth of knowledge and insights to the table. Together, they dive into a six-episode mini-series that delves into the world of real estate investing, highlighting the importance of delivering value to clients and doing the job right.
Throughout the mini-series, the speakers offer practical advice on a range of topics, such as the importance of transparency and building credibility in the agreement between a buyer and realtor, understanding the buyer's criteria and preferences, and being well-prepared with financial information. The speakers also share their expertise on the investment side of real estate and discuss which upgrades can improve home value.
Despite some minor technical errors during recording, the mini-series has been a remarkable project that promises to engage and enlighten listeners. In this captivating episode, the speakers reveal that sometimes all a client needs is the confidence to trust their brokerage. This mini-series marks Learn or Be Learned's first-ever video podcast and is the culmination of their hard work and dedication. So, get ready to be captivated by the world of real estate investing and mindset with these insightful and experienced speakers. Be sure to stay tuned for the next episode, where you'll discover even more about the investment side of real estate.
Timestamps
[00:00:00] Intro to Miniseries: Real Estate Investing Mindset
[00:03:05] Signing a Buyer Representation Agreement in Real Estate
[00:06:35] The Importance of Buyer Representation Agreements
[00:10:26] Tips for Preparing and Buying a House
[00:14:16] Importance of Client Criteria in Real Estate
[00:17:21] How to Prepare for a Home Purchase
[00:20:59] Upgrading Your Home for Real Estate Investment
This Episode's Noteworthy Quotes
[00:09:48] "Borrowed credibility is totally fine. You have to until you build your own. And the system is very important." - Nithin Thomas
- This quote highlights the importance of building credibility in the real estate industry, and how borrowing credibility can be a helpful tool to get started.
[00:12:28] "There are more things to a home than the building itself. Location, location, location, right, that there's 3 rules of real estate." - Ramu Velu
- This quote emphasizes the importance of location when it comes to buying a home, which is something that can't be changed or easily fixed.
[00:13:31] "Planning ahead is very important and look past just what does the home look like on the outside?" - Ramu Velu
- This quote encourages buyers to think beyond the surface-level appearance of a home and consider the long-term implications and potential issues that may arise.
Links to the Guests and Resources Mentioned (if any)
Nithin Thomas Instagram
My Information
Podcast Link Page: www.solo.to/shivadhana
Instagram: @shivadhana
Email | [email protected]
Video Podcast on YouTube: Click Here for YouTube Channel
Apple Ratings & Reviews: Click Here for Apple Podcasts
Show Notes, Tips & More: Click Here for Linkedin Page
Contact Me or Be a Guest: Click Here for Podcast Website
Share a link to my podcast: Click Here for a Link to Podcast Platform Selections
Hashtags
#LearnerBLearned #realestateinvesting #realtors #buyerrepresentationagreement #credibility #socialproof #buyingahome #futureplanning #specificlotsize...

101. Understanding THIS Idea Changed EVERYTHING About How I Learn and How to Learn...
Learn or Be Learned
05/14/24 • 17 min
Join Shiva D. as he shares how he unlocked his true learning potential. Discover his strategies for identifying your unique style and thriving beyond standardized tests.
Summary
This episode explores the importance of understanding different learning styles and how recognizing that you are an auditory learner helped Shiva overcome struggles with reading comprehension. Shiva shares tips for identifying your preferred learning style and adapting your approach to maximize your strengths and potential.
Key Takeaways
- We all have different preferred learning styles - auditory, visual or kinesthetic - and it's important to identify your natural strengths to optimize how you learn.
- Don't judge your intelligence based on weaknesses in areas that may not align with your style, like an auditory learner struggling with reading textbooks.
- Experiment with different study methods that incorporate your strongest style, like using audio books and notes for auditory learners, to achieve better comprehension and retention of information.
Noteworthy Quotes
- "Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live it's whole life believing that it's stupid." - Albert Einstein (timestamp 0:07:51)
- "Don't judge yourself by your ability to climb the tree. That's, I think, a big takeaway here. I think many of us do it. Because we are even in our education system. We're indoctrinated to follow a certain set of systems without freedom of expression, or ability to question right?" - Shiva Dhanasekar (timestamp 0:08:51)
- "I think there's a lot of merit into what I'm speaking about, I think it's very important topic. And I think understanding what kind of learner you are, will make all the difference." - Shiva Dhanasekar (timestamp 0:08:51)
Names, Materials, and Info Dropped in this Ep.
- Tony Robbins - referred to in relation to learning styles and his conferences discussing the topic
- Albert Einstein - in reference to the quote "Everybody is a genius."
Timestamps
00:00:00 - Introduction
0:07:51 - Reading struggles
0:08:51 - Learning styles
0:11:01 - Identifying strengths
0:13:51 - Playing to strengths
My Information
Podcast Link Page
Instagram @shivadhana
Email | [email protected]
LinkedIn for Summaries
YouTube Channel
Apple Reviews
Share a link to my podcast
Thank you so much for listening, and I hope this time you invested with me provided you with fruitful returns.
Remember Friends,
"You either learn from or you're learned from!"
-Shiva D.

82. Learn How Your Network is Your Net Worth? POWERFUL Tips to Build Genuine Connections
Learn or Be Learned
11/06/23 • 18 min
In this fascinating episode of the Learn or Be Learned podcast, host Shiva Dhanasekar delves into the lost art of genuine connection building and how our networks are truly our net worth. For those looking to expand their networks in a quality-over-quantity way, this episode provides valuable tips on identifying energy givers versus takers, learning the power of remembering names and gaining opportunities through serendipitous encounters. Tune in as Shiva explores how viewing networking as genuine relationship formation can help you connect with the right people who will support you in achieving your goals.
Summary
In this episode, Shiva Dhanasekar discusses how our networks are truly our net worth and explores the importance of quality over quantity when it comes to building genuine connections. He shares insights from Simon Sinek on companies prioritizing trust over performance. Shiva emphasizes active listening, remembering names, talking less and focusing on others. He also touches on identifying energy givers versus takers and positioning yourself around people who can help you grow. Through personal anecdotes about networking conferences, Shiva illustrates how meaningful relationships formed with just a few people through attentive listening can lead to big opportunities and unexpected benefits.
Key Takeaways
- Your network is your net worth - surround yourself with people who can help you grow both personally and professionally.
- Focus on quality over quantity when building connections - a few genuine relationships can be more valuable than many superficial ones.
- Become an active listener - talk less, and truly listen by paraphrasing, asking questions, and remembering details about others.
- Identify energy givers vs. takers in your network - surround yourself with people who motivate and inspire you.
- Put yourself in environments where you can learn and grow - attend conferences, meetups, etc. to naturally expand your network.
Noteworthy Quotes
- "Active listeners listen to what is said. But genuine listeners listen to what is not said." - Shiva Dhanasekar [0:09:30]
- "People don't remember what it said they remember what they felt." - Shiva Dhanasekar [0:12:30]
- "In investing, he says, You, if you were only allowed to make five investments your whole life, you would make sure those are really good options before you jumped in it." - Warren Buffett as mentioned by Shiva Dhanasekar [0:07:00]
- "Companies would rather higher, medium to even low performing individuals if they have high trust, versus a high performer with low trust." - Simon Sinek as mentioned by Shiva Dhanasekar [0:05:00]
- "Trust is very difficult to reconstruct once it's deconstructed." - Shiva Dhanasekar [0:06:00]
Material. People, Books, Episodes Mentioned:
- Simon Sinek - entrepreneur and author mentioned whose talk on trust vs. performance was referenced.
- Warren Buffett - investor whose quote about focusing on quality investments was mentioned.
- Dale Carnegie - an author whose book on effective people and the importance of remembering names was referenced.
- Gary Vaynerchuk - entrepreneur whose quote about micro speed and macro patience was mentioned.
Timestamps
(0:00:00) Introduction
(0:05:00) Why Trust Matters More Than Performance
(0:07:00) Focus on Quality Over Quantity
(0:09:30) The Art of Active Listening
(0:12:30) Making Memories Through Feelings
(0:15:00) Finding Your Energy Tribe
(0:30:00) When Chance Opportunities Arise
My Information
Podcast Link Page: www.solo.to/shivadhana
Instagram: @shivadhana
Email | [email protected]
Click Here for My YouTube Channel

105. Unleashing Your Inner Child: Breaking Free from Conditioned Beliefs and Unlocking Limitless Creativity
Learn or Be Learned
06/13/24 • 17 min
Dive into the concept of infinite creativity, discussing how our childhood experiences shape our potential and the importance of reclaiming our childlike imagination. Shiva explores how to overcome societal judgment and transcend conditioned beliefs to unlock limitless creativity and achieve true personal transformation.
Summary This episode explores the impact of childhood experiences on our creativity and potential, emphasizing the importance of reclaiming childlike imagination and overcoming societal judgment. Host Shiva Dhanasekar discusses strategies for transcending conditioned beliefs to achieve personal growth and limitless creativity.
3 Key Takeaways
- Reclaiming Creativity: Rediscovering the limitless imagination of childhood can unlock infinite creativity in adulthood.
- Overcoming Judgment: Understanding and overcoming societal judgment is crucial for personal growth and creative expression.
- Transcending Beliefs: By transcending conditioned beliefs, individuals can achieve true personal transformation and success.
Noteworthy Quotes
- "Children have this unconditioned consciousness. They have this ability to imagine without limitations, without reasoning, without judgment." – Shiva Dhanasekar (04:18)
- "Nobody hates on a loser. People hate on you if you're doing something because you end up being a mirror reflection of what they are not." – Shiva Dhanasekar (08:31)
- "You are the infinite creator of your existence. You are writing your story every day, so why not start a new chapter today?" – Shiva Dhanasekar (15:30)
Names, Materials, and Info Dropped in this Ep. • Episode 40 • Alex Hormozi • The Evolution of Childhood (course)
Timestamps 00:00:00 - Introduction 00:01:00 - Infinite Creators 00:04:18 - Conditioned Consciousness 00:08:31 - Fear and Judgment 00:13:07 - Authentic Self 00:15:30 - Transcending Beliefs
My Information
Click Here for My YouTube Channel
Click Here to Review Me on Apple
Click Here for Show Notes, Tips & More
Email: [email protected]
Thank you so much for listening, and I hope this time you invested with me provided you with fruitful returns.
Remember Friends,
"You either learn from or you're learned from!"
Shiva D.

109. Running Away to Start Over in Japan: A Story of Change ft. Scott Allan
Learn or Be Learned
07/05/24 • 44 min
Scott Allan shares his journey of personal growth and transformation, from a lifestyle of partying and drinking to becoming an author and entrepreneur in Japan. He emphasizes the importance of making a decision and taking action towards your goals, even in the face of resistance and setbacks. Luck is not just a matter of chance, but a result of putting in the work and being prepared for opportunities. In this conversation, Scott Allan and Shiva Dhana discuss the importance of having a plan for your life and taking action to achieve your goals. Scott shares his experiences of traveling and the importance of looking back at your achievements to gain perspective. The conversation concludes with the idea that if you don't have a plan for your life, someone else does.
Key Takeaways
- Making a decision and taking action is crucial for personal growth and transformation.
- Luck is not just a matter of chance, but a result of putting in the work and being prepared for opportunities.
- Having mentors, learning from books and podcasts, and continuously progressing towards personal development are important for success.
- Clarity and breaking down goals into small steps can help overcome procrastination and resistance. Having a plan for your life is crucial, as it allows you to take control of your destiny.
- Looking back at your achievements can provide perspective and motivation to keep moving forward.
- Goals and projects are different, with goals being the broader vision and projects being the specific actions to achieve those goals.
- Visualization through vision boards or other methods can help clarify and manifest your goals.
- Developing a growth mindset is essential for personal growth and success.
- Taking small steps and building momentum is key to achieving your goals.
- If you don't have a plan for your life, someone else does.
Noteworthy Quotes
- "What I found is that once I started to clean things up, and I got some help from some mentors, they got me doing things like writing out my goals and things like that. I'd never really done those kinds of things before." - Scott Allan (03:22)
- "I think luck is some sort of formula, whatever that may be, but it requires you to put in the work behind the scenes that I don't think many people see day to day." - Shiva Dhanasekar (10:58)
- "If you don't have a plan for your life, somebody else does. And when I first heard that, it bothered me because I realized I wanted to take control of my destiny." - Scott Allan (35:36)
Names, Materials, and Info Dropped in this Ep.
- People: Jim Rohn, Tony Robbins, Michael Jordan and Malcolm Gladwell
- Books: "Awaken the Giant Within" by Tony Robbins, "Killing Sacred Cows", "The Psychology of Money"
- Previous Episodes: Episode 5
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
03:51 Having a Vision
08:40 Realizing What You Want
20:59 Taking Small Steps
22:48 The Power of a Plan
23:27 Reflecting on Achievements
25:06 Goals vs. Projects
26:02 The Impact of Visualization
28:16 A Growth Mindset for Success
31:45 Taking Small Steps
35:36 If You Don't Have a Plan...
My Information
Click Here for My YouTube Channel
Click Here to Review Me on Apple
Click Here for Show Notes, Tips & More
Email: [email protected]
Thank you so much for listening, and I hope this time you invested with me provided you with fruitful returns.
Remember Friends,
"You either learn from or you're learned from!"
Shiva D.

03/08/24 • 15 min
Tune in to this fascinating episode of the Learner Be Learned podcast as host Shiva Dhanasekar dives deep into the key insights from the life-changing book "The One Thing" by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan. Through an engaging discussion of prioritizing your most important tasks, overcoming obstacles like fear and toxic environments, and forming new habits for long-term success, Shiva unpacks the authors' techniques for achieving extraordinary results. You'll also learn about Shiva's personal journey with productivity methods like time blocking and how he's learned to say no. Plus, don't miss his exclusive recommendation of Magic Mind's green drink for boosting your focus without the crash, along with a special discount code just for Learner Be Learned listeners. This scholarly yet entertaining episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to optimize their time and energy for maximum impact.
Summary
In this episode, host Shiva Dhanasekar reviews the key lessons from the book "The One Thing" by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan on prioritizing your most important tasks, shares insights from his own experience with productivity techniques like time blocking, discusses overcoming obstacles through forming new habits, and provides an exclusive recommendation of Magic Mind's green drink product along with a discount code just for Learner Be Learned listeners.
Key Takeaways
- Learn to identify and focus on the single most leverageable task that will move you closer to your goals by applying Gary Keller's focusing question.
- Overcome common obstacles like fear, poor health habits, and toxic environments by developing the ability to say no and forming supportive new habits.
- Delegate or automate less important tasks to free up time for focusing on your highest-impact work through techniques like time blocking.
Noteworthy Quotes
- "I grew up becoming a people pleaser because I wanted people to like me. And I would say yes to everything. And that became really hard on me because I would put myself last because saying yes to everyone is saying no to yourself." - Shiva Dhanasekar, [0:09:30]
- "If you can hit that one big thing every day, then you're making small steps towards large success." - Shiva Dhanasekar, [0:15:30]
- "It's not just about identifying and focusing on the most important tasks, or most important task once but about consistently applying it every day, this principle every day." - from The One Thing by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan as discussed by Shiva Dhanasekar, [0:16:50]
Names, Materials, and Info Dropped in this Ep.
- Gary Keller and Jay Papasan, authors of the book "The One Thing" discussed in this episode
- Cal Newport, the author whose book "Deep Work" introduced the concept of time blocking to Shiva Dhanasekar
- Eisenhower matrix, a delegation system created by former US President Dwight D. Eisenhower
- Joe Rogan, who has promoted Magic Mind's green drink product
Timestamps
- (00:00:00) - Introduction
- (0:05:00) - Focusing Question
- (0:09:00) - Saying No
- (0:10:00) - Productivity Hacks
- (0:12:00) - Overcoming Obstacles
- (0:13:00) - Forming Habits
- (0:15:00) - Consistency Wins
MAGIC MIND SPONSOR
CODE: BELEARNED20
My Information
Podcast Link Page
Instagram @shivadhana
Email | [email protected]
LinkedIn for Summaries
YouTube Channel
Apple Reviews
Share a link to my podcast
Thank you so much for listening, and I hope this time you invested with me provided you with fruitful returns.
Remember Friends,
...
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Podcast Q&A
Why did you start this show?
Creator of 'Learn or be Learned', I explore the human experience - driven by my Anthropology & Theology majors, Premed Background, and CDC tenure during COVID-19. My research in Kenya led to two papers and a pursuit of M.S. in Ayurveda & Integrative Medicine - an Eastern Medical Philiosphoy. The podcast delves into mindset, health, and societal influences, offering insights from diverse guests and books. My goal: guide listeners to their best selves, understanding our shared human experience.
What do you hope listeners gain from listening to your show?
I hope listeners of Learn or be Learned gain a deeper understanding of the human experience. Through diverse lenses like anthropology, health, and mindset, I aim to shed light on how we perceive and shape our world. My wish is for listeners to find inspiration, knowledge, and tools to elevate their own lives, fostering personal growth and a collective sense of community. Embracing these insights, we can journey together toward a more enlightened and connected existence in mind, body, and spirit.
Which episode should someone start with?
Start with what piques your curiosity! Browse through the episode topics and select one that resonates with you. The podcast is organized into three series: books, guest interviews, and monologue episodes. I've had the privilege of interviewing a diverse range of guests, from FBI agents and politicians to medical professionals, professors, MTV hosts, actors, and musicians. Drawing inspiration from Joe Rogan's style, I engage with a wide array of personalities, ensuring there's content for all.
Which have been your favourite episodes so far?
My favorite episodes encompass a range of topics and guests. Episode #079 with Rich Kirkpatrick delves into the intricacies of creativity and the inspiration behind achieving a flow state. Episode #059 features Sara Im, where she shares her harrowing and eye-opening experience of surviving an internment camp in Cambodia. For those keen on honing their communication skills and boosting confidence, Episode #034 with Tyler Foley is a must-listen. Each episode holds a special place in the world.
What is your vision for your show?
I will explore the minds of the most brilliant individuals on our planet and bring their insights to the world. I aspire to establish a grand studio, serving not only as a hub for my endeavors but also as an inspiration for others to chase their dreams - with conviction, patience, and discipline, one can rise from humble beginnings. As my journey unfolds, I will share my entrepreneurial journey. Ultimately, I'm here to facilitate growth, drawing from the human experience of my guests & myself.
How did you come up with the name for your podcast?
The name 'LBL' name came about in a serendipitous way. Inspired by my professor's appearance on the Joe Rogan podcast, I wanted a show without niche constraints. During a COVID-19 lockdown walk, I played with Shakespear's phrase, "To be or not to be", leading to 'Learn or be Learned'. Coincidentally, another podcaster chose the same name at the same time! We bonded over this, but as fate would have it, he eventually moved on, and I acquired sole rights to the catchy title 'Learn or be Learned'.
Tell us a bit about yourself
Shiva Dhanasekar, Emory University (top 20 US institution) alum with Anthropology and Theology majors, served on the financial director's board of Emory's TEDx Organization & VP of Model UN Organization. His Kenya research on semi-nomadic pastoralists led to two papers and AAPA conference talks. He interned at CDC's GRRT pre-COVID-19 and now studies Ayurveda & Integrative Medicine. A health-focused entrepreneur, Shiva's journey reflects a blend of academia and real-world experiences.
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FAQ
How many episodes does Learn or Be Learned have?
Learn or Be Learned currently has 137 episodes available.
What topics does Learn or Be Learned cover?
The podcast is about Society & Culture and Podcasts.
What is the most popular episode on Learn or Be Learned?
The episode title '63. Learn How to Become MORE Productive with Your 2023 Goals with this Growth Coach ft. Thanh Pham' is the most popular.
What is the average episode length on Learn or Be Learned?
The average episode length on Learn or Be Learned is 36 minutes.
How often are episodes of Learn or Be Learned released?
Episodes of Learn or Be Learned are typically released every 7 days, 1 hour.
When was the first episode of Learn or Be Learned?
The first episode of Learn or Be Learned was released on Dec 10, 2020.
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@shivadhana
Sep 25
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