Season 4, Episode 7 | “Worry feels like doing something—but it changes nothing.”

In this episode of Strong & Awake, Dane and Mitch explore the pervasive grip of worry and its role as a symptom of deeper internal chaos. They challenge the notion that worry is a solution, instead presenting it as a false sense of control over life's inevitable chaos. Through personal stories and historical examples, they illustrate how voluntary discomfort can prepare us to face life's unpredictability with resilience and agency. By embracing discomfort, we can cultivate higher-order skills that transform our response to chaos, moving beyond default reactions to a place of intentional action. Whether you're in the midst of involuntary discomfort or preparing for the storms ahead, this episode invites you to reconsider your relationship with worry and explore a path of proactive growth.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction
• 01:31 The Nature of Worry
• 04:49 Worry as a Symptom
• 09:35 Order and Chaos
• 13:00 Practicing Discomfort
• 23:50 Facing Involuntary Discomfort

Mentions:

• Nelson Mandela - South African anti-apartheid revolutionary, political leader, and philanthropist who served as President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999. Mentioned in the context of his imprisonment and forgiveness of his oppressors.
• Daniel Johnston - American singer-songwriter and artist. Mentioned in the context of his song "Worried Shoes" which illustrates the concept of worry.
• M. Scott Peck - American psychiatrist and author. Mentioned for his book "The Road Less Traveled" and its opening line, "Life is difficult."
• Seth Godin - American author and former dot com business executive. Mentioned for his idea of "dancing with the whirlwind."

Anchor Actions:

1. Practice Voluntary Discomfort: Begin incorporating small acts of voluntary discomfort into your daily routine. This could be as simple as taking a cold shower, fasting intermittently, or engaging in physical exercise when you don't feel like it. These practices build resilience and prepare you for unexpected challenges, enabling you to respond with resourcefulness rather than default worry.
2. Reframe Worry as a Signal: Instead of viewing worry as a problem, see it as a symptom that alerts you to areas where you need to take action. When you feel worry creeping in, pause and identify what it's signaling. Then, take practical steps to address the root cause rather than succumbing to the worry itself.
3. Embrace the Chaos: Accept that life is inherently chaotic and that challenges will arise. Instead of fearing these moments, prepare for them by cultivating a mindset of readiness. Engage in activities that strengthen your mental and emotional fortitude, so when chaos does strike, you can stand firm and navigate it effectively.

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Join Us:

Our Membership Community (MWOD) is where we embrace discomfort as a path to personal development. Remember, it's probably not for you... but if we're wrong about that, or if you want to find out for yourself, visit us at MWOD.io 🦬

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Season 4, Episode 6 | "Do you wanna look perfect or be perfect?"

This episode of Strong & Awake challenges the notion of perfectionism and its impact on personal growth. Mitch and Dane explore how the pursuit of perfection often becomes a barrier, preventing us from taking action and learning from our experiences. They discuss the importance of embracing wholeheartedness—bringing your full self to every endeavor, even when failure is a possibility. By sharing personal stories and community practices, they highlight the value of vulnerability, accountability, and authenticity in overcoming perfectionism. This episode invites listeners to reflect on their own lives, encouraging them to tell truer stories and pursue growth through voluntary discomfort.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction
• 02:27 Perfectionism as a Thief
• 06:44 The Myth of Being Perfect
• 09:22 Living Wholeheartedly
• 16:40 The Vanity of Perfectionism
• 19:04 Keeping Commitments to Yourself
• 24:57 Humility and Honest Storytelling
• 32:00 Closing & Invitation

Mentions:

• Carol Dweck - Known for her work on mindset, particularly the concepts of "fixed mindset" and "growth mindset."
• Gregory Benedict - Mentioned in relation to a TEDx talk and helping a world record setting weightlifter.
• Steph Curry - Professional basketball player, often cited as the greatest shooter in NBA history.
• TEDx - A program of local, self-organized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience.
• Turkish Getup - A complex exercise typically done with a kettlebell, mentioned here being performed with a barbell.

Anchor Actions:

1. Reframe Your Stories: In the next 24 hours, identify a moment where you told a story to justify breaking a commitment. Approach the person involved and share a more honest account of what happened. This practice not only builds integrity but also moves you closer to wholehearted living.
2. Quarterly Self-Assessment: Schedule a quarterly review of your life. Reflect on whether your actions are aligned with trying to appear perfect or being genuinely committed. Plan the next 90 days to focus on projects and practices that move you towards authenticity rather than maintaining an image.
3. Embrace Community: Engage with a community that encourages you to account for your actions. Whether through formal check-ins or informal conversations, use these interactions to hear your own justifications and recalibrate towards genuine commitments.

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Join Us:

Our Membership Community (MWOD) is where we embrace discomfort as a path to personal development. Remember, it's probably not for you... but if we're wrong about that, or if you want to find out for yourself, visit us at MWOD.io 🦬

Connect With Us:

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Disclaimer:

The information shared on this podcast and any related...

Season 4, Episode 5 | Why do we crave the reward without the effort—comfort without discomfort?

In this episode of Strong & Awake, Dane and Mitch dismantle the patience myth, exposing how chasing shortcuts steals your momentum and growth. You’ll discover why leaning into the uncomfortable gap rewires your mindset, how community holds you when you’d normally bail, and simple daily rituals that turn small acts of waiting into real strength. Trade quick fixes for lasting change and step onto the unlikely path of true resilience.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction
• 02:33 Patience Unmasked
• 05:14 Shortcut Illusion
• 08:19 Emptiness as Ally?
• 10:48 Reward in Resistance
• 13:04 Community Over Comfort
• 15:41 Mindset Shift
• 18:31 Discomfort Signals
• 23:30 Daily Discomfort Rituals
• 25:47 Release Perfection
• 28:32 Redemption and Imperfect Progress
• 31:50 Challenge Accepted

Mentions:

• CliftonStrengths (StrengthsFinder) - A personal assessment tool developed by Don Clifton and popularized by Marcus Buckingham. It helps individuals identify their top strengths and encourages focusing on these rather than improving weaknesses.
• James Clear - Author of "Atomic Habits," which discusses the idea of making small changes to improve habits and behavior over time. Mentioned in the context of making deposits into the person you want to become in the future.
• Steve Magness - Author of "Do Hard Things” and “The Surprising Science of Real Toughness." His work is referenced in relation to understanding the psychology of performance and resilience.
• Rory McIlroy - Professional golfer who recently won the Masters, completing the career Grand Slam. His journey and psychological coaching are mentioned as an example of overcoming challenges and achieving goals.
• Courtney Dauwalter - Ultra-endurance athlete known for her mental toughness and ability to endure extreme discomfort. Referenced in the context of embracing discomfort and remodeling the "pain cave."
• "The Infinite Game" - A book by Simon Sinek that discusses the concept of playing games with an infinite mindset, focusing on long-term goals and continuous improvement rather than short-term wins. Mentioned in relation to focusing on the process rather than the end result.
• "Play Infinite" - The Strong & Awake episode from Season 2, focused on the Anchors that are fundamental to the MWOD community. Listen here.

Anchor Actions:

1. Embrace Discomfort as a Signal: When you find yourself in moments of discomfort, whether it's during a workout or a challenging conversation, recognize it as a sign that you're on the right path. Instead of seeking immediate relief or distraction, lean into the discomfort. Use it as a cue to stay present and committed, knowing that this is where growth happens.
2. Focus on the Process, Not the Outcome: Shift your attention from the end goal to the immediate task at hand. Whether you're playing a game or working towards a personal goal, concentrate on each step or point rather than the final result. This approach not only enhances performance but also enriches the experience, allowing you to find satisfaction in the journey itself.
3. Practice Relational Presence: In interactions with others, especially those who challenge you, strive to be fully present. Resist the urge to rush through or avoid these encounters. Instead, engage with empathy and curiosity, seeking to understand the other person's...

Season 4, Episode 4 | "Are you sure you want to give up the whole thing?"

In this episode of Strong & Awake, Dane and Mitch challenge the notion of seeking relief from discomfort and explore the transformative power of voluntary discomfort. They discuss how embracing challenges, rather than avoiding them, can lead to personal growth and maturity. Through personal stories and insights, they illustrate the importance of discerning when to persevere through discomfort and when to let go. The conversation delves into the value of facing high-stakes challenges, the clarity that emerges from discomfort, and the profound impact of micro-dosing discomfort in everyday life. Join them in rethinking the path of least resistance and discover how to navigate life's challenges with strength and awareness.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction
• 01:31 Before Pulling the Rip Cord
• 05:54 The Illusion of Balance
• 10:42 Reframing Challenges as Opportunities
• 12:15 How Not to Solve Decision Fatigue
• 17:13 Microdosing Discomfort
• 25:52 The Importance of Keeping Commitments
• 31:57 Community and Wholeheartedness

Mentions:

• Steve Jobs - Mentioned in the context of reducing decision fatigue by wearing the same outfit every day to save mental energy for higher-stakes decisions.
• Malcolm Gladwell - Referenced for his article discussing his "weight problem," which was about the inability to prioritize tasks effectively, not physical weight.
• Tim Krueger - Dane's friend and co-founder of Men and Women of Discomfort, who passed away from cancer, used as an example of someone who showed clarity and strength in the face of extreme discomfort.

Anchor Actions:

1. Embrace Discomfort as Training: When faced with overwhelming decisions or challenging circumstances, instead of seeking immediate relief, pause and reframe the situation as an opportunity for growth. Treat discomfort as a training ground. Ask yourself, "What can I learn from this?" and "How can this challenge serve me in the long run?" This mindset shift can transform seemingly negative situations into powerful experiences for personal development.
2. Prioritize High-Stakes Commitments: Conduct an honest assessment of your commitments and responsibilities. Identify which tasks or decisions are truly high-stakes and align with your long-term goals. Focus your energy on these areas, shedding low-stakes tasks that don't contribute to your growth. This approach helps manage decision fatigue and ensures that your efforts are directed toward meaningful outcomes.
3. Communicate and Take Responsibility: In moments of overwhelm, take responsibility for your commitments by communicating effectively. If circumstances change and you can't meet an obligation, reach out, explain the situation, and make a request for understanding or assistance. This practice not only maintains your integrity but also strengthens your ability to navigate challenges with grace and accountability.

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Join Us:

Our Membership Community (MWOD) is where we embrace discomfort as a path to personal development. Remember, it's probably not for you... but if we're wrong about that, or if you want to find out for yourself, visit us at MWOD.io 🦬

Connect With Us:

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Episode 3 | "When you are stuck and don't have the energy, are you a co-conspirator with your bad day?"

In this episode of Strong & Awake, Dane and Mitch explore the power of voluntary discomfort as a catalyst for personal growth. They discuss how to break free from the cycle of victimhood and take agency over your day, even when it feels like everything is happening to you. Through personal stories and practical insights, they reveal how small, counterintuitive actions can open up new possibilities and generate motivation. Whether you're facing a mundane drift or a serious whirlwind, discover how to find agency and self-generate the energy needed to navigate life's challenges. Join the conversation and learn how to choose the unlikely path to get the life you really want.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction
• 01:16 Stuck Before You Start
• 06:44 Recognizing Agency
• 12:18 Zigging and Zagging
• 18:00 Finding Agency in Crisis
• 24:19 Interrupting the Drift
• 27:18 Sharing and Belonging

Mentions:

• Choose Your Role - An episode or concept mentioned as a philosophical underpinning to the current conversation.
• Self-Determination Theory - A theory mentioned that emphasizes the role of agency, skill improvement, and community in long-term motivation.
• Thursday Truth - A segment in the community where members share significant personal stories.

Anchor Actions:

1. Interrupt the Drift (AKA Zig or Zag): When you notice your day spiraling into a passive drift, identify a small, tangible action that breaks the cycle. This could be as simple as ordering a different drink, stepping outside for fresh air, or jotting down thoughts in a journal. The key is to consciously choose a different path, even if it feels insignificant at first. This small shift can create momentum and open up new possibilities.
2. Embrace Agency: Recognize your role in your day’s trajectory. Even on autopilot, you have the power to steer. Start by acknowledging your participation in the drift, then take responsibility for one small decision. Whether it’s rescheduling a meeting or setting aside time for a personal practice, these actions reinforce your control and can generate the motivation you need.
3. Engage in Community: Share your intentions and actions with someone in your life. Communicating your process not gives you a chance to hold account but also connects you to a broader support network. This sense of belonging can amplify your motivation and help sustain your efforts. Whether it’s a quick text to a friend or a post in a supportive community, involve others in your journey to reinforce your commitment.

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Join Us:

Our Membership Community (MWOD) is where we embrace discomfort as a path to personal development. Remember, it's probably not for you... but if we're wrong about that, or if you want to find out for yourself, visit us at MWOD.io 🦬

Connect With Us:

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Season 4, Episode 2 | "Are you chasing fool's gold or real confidence?"

In this Strong & Awake episode, Dane and Mitch dismantle the myth of flashy confidence to reveal that true confidence is forged in quiet, disciplined practice. Through Craig’s roof-and-ladder challenge and examples from The Millionaire Next Door, Steph Curry, and Kobe Bryant, they show that confidence isn’t innate or a performance—it’s the sum of small, deliberate reps taken in the face of discomfort. By rejecting victim stories, counting down “3, 2, 1” to act, and focusing on the work over the reward, listeners learn to build authentic confidence in any arena. If you’re ready to move beyond shortcuts and cultivate lasting self-assurance, this conversation lights the path.

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Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction
• 01:15 Member Story - Craig part 1
• 02:28 Gold vs. Fool’s Gold Confidence
• 06:31 Misconceptions About Confidence
• 13:05 Member Story - Craig part 2
• 16:12 Courage as the Virtue that Hinges Confidence
• 25:16 Building Confidence Through Community

Mentions:

• The Millionaire Next Door - A book mentioned by Dane, which discusses the habits and characteristics of actual millionaires, emphasizing frugality and understated wealth.
• The Growth Equation - Referenced by Dane, this likely refers to the work of authors Brad Stulberg and Steve Magness, who write about performance and well-being.
• Steph Curry - NBA player mentioned by Dane as an example of someone who has built confidence through extensive practice and overcoming perceived limitations.
• Kobe Bryant - Late NBA player mentioned by Dane, known for his work ethic and dedication to improving his skills, even in areas outside of basketball.
• Ryan Holiday - Author mentioned by Dane, known for his writings on Stoicism and virtues, including courage.
• Mark Brewer - A member of the Men and Women of Discomfort community, highlighted by Dane for his confidence and ability to handle stressful situations effectively.

Anchor Actions:

1. Use “3, 2, 1” – when resistance arises, count down and take one small action toward the discomfort you’re avoiding
2. Practice a daily discomfort rep – choose one micro-challenge (e.g., one push-up, one breath hold, one exposure) and follow through every day
3. Log your reps, not results – track one instance daily where you put in work without seeking recognition, and repeat tomorrow

Join Us:

Our Membership Community (MWOD) is where we embrace discomfort as a path to personal development. Remember, it's probably not for you... but if we're wrong about that, or if you want to find out for yourself, visit us at MWOD.io 🦬

Connect With Us:

Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | X (Twitter)

Disclaimer:

The information shared on this podcast and any related materials from Men & Women Of Discomfort (MWOD) or

“What is the thing you don’t want to do that you know you’ll be better for if you do?”

In this Strong & Awake episode, Dane and Mitch strip away the myths of time scarcity and willpower to expose procrastination as a misguided fight-or-flight response. They reveal how a simple “3, 2, 1” countdown or one small action—one push‑up, one breath, one piece of macaroni—can shatter inertia. Learn to calibrate your body and mind, ban the “I don’t have time” story, and build a daily practice around strength, awareness, and doing it all for love’s sake. If you’re ready to trade comfort for momentum and live purposefully awake, this conversation will point the way.

• 00:00 Introduction
• 01:28 Community Story (Avery S.): Macaroni Momentum
• 05:17 Embodied Procrastination Explained
• 12:09 The 3‑2‑1 Countdown
• 18:34 Negotiating Your Priorities
• 25:29 Building a Daily Practice
• 31:29 Community Invitation

• Amygdala vs. Frontal Cortex – the tension between survival-driven fight-or-flight responses and higher-order executive function
• CrossFit warm-up – analog for immediate action through a clear “go” signal to bypass procrastination
• Mel Robbins’ 5 Second Rule – using a countdown to break inertia and force action
• Seth Godin’s writer’s block debunking – reframing writing as uninterrupted thinking to overcome excuses
• Ryan Holiday’s The Obstacle Is the Way – embracing obstacles as the path forward
• James Clear’s habit rule from Atomic Habits – recommending minimal actions like “just put your shoes on” to build consistency

1. 3, 2, 1 Countdown – when you feel resistance, count down and take one tiny action to ignite momentum
2. One-Minute Rule – commit to working on your most resisting task for just one minute to break paralysis
3. Daily Trio Practice – each day, choose one action for strength, one to awaken, and one for love’s sake to build a sustainable habit

Join Us:

Our Membership Community (MWOD) is where we embrace discomfort as a path to personal development. Remember, it's probably not for you... but if we're wrong about that, or if you want to find out for yourself, visit us at MWOD.io 🦬

Connect With Us:

Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | X (Twitter)

Disclaimer:

The information shared on this podcast and any related materials from Men & Women Of Discomfort (MWOD) or Flying S Incorporated are for general informational purposes only. You should not use this information as a basis for making decisions without consulting your own medical and legal professionals. We aim to provide accurate and...

Welcome to Season 4 of Strong & Awake by Men & Women Of Discomfort.

In this special kickoff episode, Mitch introduces the theme of the season: overcoming the everyday obstacles that trip us up—like procrastination, perfectionism, overwhelm, and worry. But rather than avoiding them, MWOD invites you to face them head-on through voluntary discomfort.

Get a glimpse of what’s ahead this season, hear how real stories from our community will guide the way, and start reframing the obstacles in your life as opportunities for growth.

If you’re ready to stop reacting and start responding, this season is for you.

Join Us:

Our Membership Community (MWOD) is where we embrace discomfort as a path to personal development. Remember, it's probably not for you... but if we're wrong about that, or if you want to find out for yourself, visit us at MWOD.io 🦬

Connect With Us:

Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | X (Twitter)

Disclaimer:

The information shared on this podcast and any related materials from Men & Women Of Discomfort (MWOD) or Flying S Incorporated are for general informational purposes only. You should not use this information as a basis for making decisions without consulting your own medical and legal professionals. We aim to provide accurate and up-to-date information, but we make no guarantees about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or comprehensiveness of the content.

At Men & Women Of Discomfort, we promote agency and encourage you to carefully consider the input we offer. If you find it helpful, we invite you to take advantage of it, but do so with the understanding that you bear the responsibility of due diligence. By using our content, you acknowledge that you are taking opportunities at your own risk. Thank you for understanding.

*Transcript Note: The transcript of our podcast is AI-generated and may contain errors. We aim for accuracy but appreciate your understanding and feedback on any discrepancies.

Copyright 2025 Men & Women Of Discomfort (MWOD.io)