What if you’re the biggest thing standing between you and your dream? This episode uncovers the tough truths—and surprising breakthroughs—of chasing your dream, even when no one gives you permission.

Writer and storyteller Jason Dyba joins Aaron Coe to share his journey from self-doubt and “safe” choices to leaving security behind and making space for the creative work that matters most. Together, they dig into the unseen biases, invisible hurdles, and real-life sacrifices it takes to move from dreaming to doing—especially later in life. Discover why the easiest “yes” can steal the dream you actually want, and what it really looks like to show up when the stakes are high. If you’ve ever thought it’s too risky, too late, or too daunting, this conversation will help you clarify, name, and unblock your next step.

Key Takeaways

• Why your biggest hurdle is often yourself—and what to do about it
• The pain and payoff of saying “no” to good things for the sake of your real dream
• How self-limiting beliefs and cultural narratives quietly shape your expectations
• The power of “permission”—and why you must give it to yourself
• Practical strategies for making consistent progress, not just waiting for inspiration
• Why putting your “yes” on the calendar is the most honest commitment

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#Dreams #Creativity #ChasingYourDream #Inspiration #Storytelling #PersonalGrowth #OvercomingDoubt #DontLetTheDreamDie

Timestamps

00:00 One of the biggest hurdles: Our own biases
00:05 Waiting for permission to dream
00:12 Yes vs. No: Pathways to possibilities
00:19 The good lies we believe about our dreams
00:56 Introducing Jason Dyba and shared projects
02:34 Jason’s story: Family, work, and creative life
03:21 Living what you once dreamed—and why it doesn’t always feel dreamy
04:26 Why clarifying your dream is so challenging
05:15 The self-limiting beliefs and hurdles in creative life
06:26 Cultural influence: Not knowing any artists or dreamers growing up
08:16 How influential mentors break your limits
09:09 Waiting for someone else’s permission—and realizing you must give your own
10:22 No epiphany, but small wins building confidence
11:39 Naming the “meta-dream”—writing a lasting story
12:00 Leaving safety behind: Navigating career shifts and dream pursuit
14:27 The hardest decisions: Saying no to what’s good (and familiar)
16:53 The practical transition: Freelancing, family, and risk
18:58 Time as the currency of your dream
20:18 The hardest trade-offs (family vs. focus)
21:28 Seeing through the “good lies” we tell ourselves
22:40 Choosing your best yes for a decade, not just a day
23:12 Why saying “no” can unlock limitless potential
24:00 The dangers of curiosity and impulsive yeses
25:37 Progress: What showing up looks like, every day
26:49 The real yes is on your calendar
27:42 Encouragement for anyone with a “smaller” dream
28:54 Don’t wait for permission or the “right” circumstances
30:02 The value of accountability and tracking the journey
31:00 Final thoughts: Show up, do the work, let the dream live