Make Your Mark with Colin Stevens

01/18/24 • 29 min

The Happiness Practices with Phil Gerbyshak

Tune in for an inspiring conversation with Colin Stevens, author of Make Your Mark.

3 Memorable Quotes

"Bet on yourself. Take risks, try to make something happen." - Colin Stevens

"If there's not something of value on the line, then you're not really living; you're just waiting to die." - Colin Stevens

"Your heart is free. Have the courage to follow it." - Quote mentioned in "Make Your Mark"

Key Discussion Points

Betting on Yourself:

Colin attributes the best advice he ever received to his father: "Bet on yourself."

This philosophy was reinforced by his coach, Chris Beard, emphasizing self-reliance and risk-taking.

Influence of Colin's Father:

Howard Melvin Stevens, Colin's father, a notable figure in football and a source of inspiration.

His father's achievements in sports and life reinforced the value of self-belief and taking chances.

Life Lessons and Making Impact:

Colin reflects on the importance of embracing risk and not just settling for the safe path.

The concept of living fully by putting something of value on the line.

Personal Reflections and Growth:

Colin discusses his journey of self-discovery, including his challenges and how he learned to extend patience and grace to himself and others.

Leaving the Church:

A significant life change for Colin, he shares his reasons and the journey of forming his own belief system.

Colin's Book: "Make Your Mark":

Insights into the book's themes, including making an impact, living with courage, and embracing one's true self.

Advice for Listeners:

Colin encourages listeners to face their fears, embrace challenges, and take the first step towards making their mark.

Some of my thoughts on Make Your Mark by Colin Stevens (as shared in an Amazon.com review):

"Make Your Mark" by Colin Stevens is a powerful, impactful, and beautifully simple guide to living a life that not only benefits oneself but also makes the world a better place. It's a book that doesn't just sit on your shelf; it lingers in your mind and heart, urging you to take action and make your mark. A definite five-star read for anyone who believes in the power of positive change and personal growth.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyaf.substack.com/subscribe

Tune in for an inspiring conversation with Colin Stevens, author of Make Your Mark.

3 Memorable Quotes

"Bet on yourself. Take risks, try to make something happen." - Colin Stevens

"If there's not something of value on the line, then you're not really living; you're just waiting to die." - Colin Stevens

"Your heart is free. Have the courage to follow it." - Quote mentioned in "Make Your Mark"

Key Discussion Points

Betting on Yourself:

Colin attributes the best advice he ever received to his father: "Bet on yourself."

This philosophy was reinforced by his coach, Chris Beard, emphasizing self-reliance and risk-taking.

Influence of Colin's Father:

Howard Melvin Stevens, Colin's father, a notable figure in football and a source of inspiration.

His father's achievements in sports and life reinforced the value of self-belief and taking chances.

Life Lessons and Making Impact:

Colin reflects on the importance of embracing risk and not just settling for the safe path.

The concept of living fully by putting something of value on the line.

Personal Reflections and Growth:

Colin discusses his journey of self-discovery, including his challenges and how he learned to extend patience and grace to himself and others.

Leaving the Church:

A significant life change for Colin, he shares his reasons and the journey of forming his own belief system.

Colin's Book: "Make Your Mark":

Insights into the book's themes, including making an impact, living with courage, and embracing one's true self.

Advice for Listeners:

Colin encourages listeners to face their fears, embrace challenges, and take the first step towards making their mark.

Some of my thoughts on Make Your Mark by Colin Stevens (as shared in an Amazon.com review):

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyaf.substack.com/subscribe

Previous Episode

Power Pausing with Jeanette Bronée

In this episode of the Happy AF Show, Phil Gerbyshak interviews Jeanette Bronée, author of "The Self-Care Mindset," about the concept of "Power Pausing." Jeanette shares valuable insights about how to navigate uncertainty, manage stress, and approach life with a self-care mindset. She discusses three types of Power Pauses – the one-minute pause, the emotional check-in, and the problem-solving pause – and how they can help individuals become more aware, adaptable, and agile in handling life's challenges. Jeanette emphasizes the importance of acceptance, flexibility, and intention in finding inner strength and resilience.

Quotes from Jeanette Bronée:

"I think of the three pauses as the one-minute, two-minute, three-minute or it could be longer, but the one-minute pause is really that physical pause there just for a moment... It's about becoming more aware."

"The second pause is to check in a little bit more with how we're feeling... Intention fuels attention... We're shifting our attention because we will answer the question that is being asked."

"The third pause is aligning with that, saying, 'Okay, what is it that I'm really trying to solve here? How do I really get there? What are the steps I need to take?'... It's about becoming more agile."

These quotes capture the essence of Jeanette Bronée's teachings on Power Pausing and how it can empower individuals to navigate uncertainty and make positive choices.

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit happyaf.substack.com/subscribe

Next Episode

The Art of Connection with Michael Gelb

Introduction:

Phil introduces Michael Gelb, author of "The Art of Connection," and their long-standing connection dating back to when Phil worked at Strong Investments and Michael wrote "Thinking Like Leonardo da Vinci."

Michael's diverse interests, including wine, creativity, and leadership, have led to his latest book, "The Art of Connection," which focuses on how to enhance connections in various aspects of life.

Segment 1: The Journey from Wine to Da Vinci and Beyond

Michael shares his approach to choosing topics for his books, emphasizing his passion and curiosity for subjects that can help others.

The connection between his wine book and "The Art of Connection" as both address the importance of building connections and fostering collaboration.

Michael's experience with using wine tasting as a team-building activity to break down barriers and foster connection among participants.

Segment 2: The Art of Connection vs. The Science of Connection

Michael explains why he calls it "The Art of Connection" despite the presence of scientific research in the book.

The distinction between understanding the science of connection and applying it effectively, emphasizing the importance of being present and attentive in interactions.

The role of curiosity and being fully present in establishing meaningful connections with others.

Segment 3: Being Present and Fully Engaged

The significance of being present and engaged in interactions, drawing inspiration from Winston Churchill's quote, "We are all worms, but I do believe that I am a glowworm."

The idea that everyone matters and has more influence than they might realize, and how small acts of kindness can create positive ripples in relationships.

The concept of reciprocity and the balance of energy exchange in relationships, including the distinction between givers, takers, and matchers.

Segment 4: Balancing the Energy Exchange

Delving into the importance of balancing the energy exchange in relationships and how it impacts individuals' well-being.

Michael's personal experience and commitment to maintaining balance in his own relationship, emphasizing open communication and dialogue.

The role of humility and curiosity in being a good listener, acknowledging that effective listening requires continuous practice and self-awareness.

Segment 5: Turning Friction into Momentum

Exploring the fifth skill in "The Art of Connection" – turning friction into momentum.

The significance of conflict resolution in relationships and the need to separate conflict from a contest.

Encouraging creativity in resolving conflicts by understanding the underlying needs of stakeholders and finding new solutions that benefit everyone.

The broader impact of constructive conflict resolution on society as a whole.

Conclusion:

Phil and Michael recap the key takeaways from the conversation, highlighting the importance of being present, embracing curiosity, balancing energy exchange, and effectively handling conflicts.

Michael invites listeners to connect with him through his website and on LinkedIn to continue the conversation and explore further insights into "The Art of Connection."

Final Thoughts

This podcast episode features an engaging discussion with Michael Gelb about his book "The Art of Connection." It delves into the importance of fostering meaningful connections in various aspects of life, from personal relationships to leadership and teamwork. Michael's insights on being present, balancing energy exchange, and constructive conflict resolution provide valuable takeaways for listeners seeking to enhance their own connections and relationships.

A few notable quotables:

"Emotions are contagious for better or for worse, so be careful about what you catch and spread." - Michael Gelb

"Balance the energy exchange in your relationships. Monitor and adjust it so that each person feels the energy is flowing and they feel a sense of gratitude." - Michael Gelb

"One of the big secrets of creative collaboration is learning how to have conflict that is respectful and dynamic and inspires thought." - Michael Gelb

"The goal of a conflict in a relationship is not to score more points than the other person, but to use creativity to meet the underlying needs of all stakeholders." - Michael Gelb

"Be present and open, assume there's more to know, and be curious. That attitude will strengthen your sense of presence and humility." - Michael Gelb

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