All It Takes Is A Goal

Last year, I read more than 100 books. This year, I cut that goal down to 25—and actually got more out of them. After realizing I was flying through books without retaining much, I slowed down and found four that earned a permanent spot on my bookshelf. In this episode, I'm sharing my favorite reads of 2024: a cutthroat business memoir from the cofounder of CAA (with an amazing 10-minute meeting trick), a beautifully illustrated book about overthinking, a faith book that pulled me beyond my s...

Published: 17 November 2025

Have you ever noticed how easy it is to binge on other people’s success stories? Podcasts, books, courses—it all feels productive, but sometimes it’s just procrastination in disguise. I call it being a success voyeur. You’re peering through the glass, watching other people build remarkable lives, while your own goals collect dust. I know, because I did it too. In 2024, I read 100 books and didn’t change my life one bit. It wasn’t learning—it was hiding. In this episode, I’ll share how I stopp...

Transcribed - Published: 10 November 2025

I've written 11 books, but I didn't have a 10-year plan. I just got tired of my fearful mindset dictating my entire life. In my mid-30s, I threw my first bottle into the ocean—and it changed everything. In this episode, I'm sharing why you need to throw yours too. Here's the metaphor: You're on an island called "My Life," and the things you create are tiny notes you shove into bottles. When you throw them with courage and conviction, they float away to shores you've never seen—bookshelf, Spot...

Transcribed - Published: 3 November 2025

A viral tweet recently claimed that 30-year-olds today can't afford what previous generations could—a house they like, a decent car, a $100K salary, and a stay-at-home spouse. Here's the truth: I was 30 in 2006 and only achieved half of that list. We had seafoam green carpet, a purple bedroom, squirrels living in our roof, a 2-door Camry with 150,000 miles, and a two-hour commute. But we were building something. In this episode, I'm breaking down why people procrastinate when they create impo...

Transcribed - Published: 27 October 2025

81% of Americans want to write a book. Only 2% actually do. What's the difference between wanting and doing? One word: deadline. In this episode, I'm breaking down why deadlines are the secret weapon for finishing any goal—whether you're writing a book, getting in shape, or finally decluttering that garage. Your Peloton is collecting dust, your planner has cobwebs, and that Ninja Creami is just an expensive paperweight because you're missing this crucial element. I'll show you how to create r...

Transcribed - Published: 20 October 2025

Building a business and building a family both require one thing: being brave enough to be bad at something new. In this episode, Jenny and I talk about the soundtracks that have helped us stay sane through marriage, parenting, and every learning curve in between. From why the honeymoon should come six months in, to how we’ve learned to “not buy tickets” for each other’s anxious train rides, to the soundtrack that reminds us we’re raising adults, not just kids. We also unpack the logic trap o...

Transcribed - Published: 13 October 2025

Building a 7-figure business while staying married for 25 years doesn't happen by accident. In this follow-up episode, I'm sharing four more marriage secrets that have helped Jenny and me not just survive but thrive together. You'll discover why "I wouldn't bet against us" became our rallying cry when people doubted our dreams, how playing to our strengths means I handle parking while she handles money (and why we always go to bed at the same time), and what "hit the squirrel" really means wh...

Transcribed - Published: 6 October 2025

After almost 25 years of marriage, my wife Jenny and I have learned a few things that actually work—not just the clichés you hear everywhere. In this episode, I'm sharing four practical "soundtracks" we use in our marriage and parenting that have made all the difference. From knowing when to pause an argument (hint: we do better with coffee) to understanding that winners actually quit all the time—just the wrong things—these aren't your typical relationship tips. You'll also discover why "eve...

Transcribed - Published: 29 September 2025

Feeling overwhelmed by all your goals? You're not alone—and that's exactly why we're starting with something different. Instead of brainstorming more things to do, let's celebrate what you've already accomplished. In this episode, I'm sharing the opening lesson from my Greatest Year Ever program, including the simple "I Did That!" exercise that builds the confidence you need for your biggest goals. You've already done hard things—you just haven't given yourself enough credit. Whether you grad...

Transcribed - Published: 22 September 2025

I recently told someone they should print out these 8 words and carry them in their wallet (which makes me sound ancient because who has a printer anymore?) But seriously, if you only remember 8 words from me in 2025, let it be these: "Big life, small worries. Small life, big worries." Here's the thing—if you want small worries, live a life so big you don't have time to stress over the little stuff. Stress grows in the big open chunks of unclaimed time. When I'm writing a book or planning an ...

Transcribed - Published: 15 September 2025

What if the formula for a remarkable life was so simple you could write it on a sticky note? In this episode, I share the exact mindset shift that took me from stuck in Atlanta traffic to building a life I love. You’ll hear the story of how I stopped blaming my commute, my boss, and my circumstances, and discovered that the cavalry I'd been waiting for was actually myself. The truth? Your thoughts create your actions, and your actions create your results. Remarkable or average... it’s your ch...

Transcribed - Published: 8 September 2025

Apparently, hope is controversial now. Who knew? I've been posting about hope lately, and people have been telling me I'm tone deaf because the supply chain is broken and the economy is terrible. One of my friends literally can't be happy until the supply chain is fixed (even though he doesn't work in supply chain). When did we start tying our personal lives to global numbers we don't control? I spent nearly 20 years as an excuse factory—blaming my parents, my boss, the economy, my background...

Transcribed - Published: 1 September 2025

There are only two words standing between you and the book you've always wanted to write, the business you want to start, and yes, even millions of dollars. Just two words. According to the University of Scranton, 92% of New Year's resolutions fail—and it's because nobody knows about these two powerful words. Here's the thing: nothing is successful on the first attempt. Nothing. Fear isn't afraid of your first try (we're a single-serve culture), but it's terrified you'll take that secon...

Transcribed - Published: 25 August 2025

I'm going old school today—70s and 80s motivational guru style. You know those thick plastic binders with cassette tapes that made you want to run through walls? That's the energy I'm bringing. This episode is different. It's a short, highly motivational boost designed to be replayed whenever you're discouraged and need that little bit of juice. Because today isn't just another average Monday—there's no such thing as average days when we're guaranteed none and given this one. Today is an adve...

Transcribed - Published: 18 August 2025

Let’s end this series with one of the most powerful mindset shifts I’ve learned: Throw shorter pity parties. In the final episode of my Summer Soundtracks Series, I’m sharing why it’s okay to feel the sting of failure—but not okay to camp out in it forever. I’ll unpack the difference between processing and pity, and challenge you to stop RSVPing to every pity party you throw for yourself. Let’s talk about what it looks like to feel it, process it, and then move forward. In This Episode: Grab ...

Transcribed - Published: 11 August 2025

This one hit me right between the eyes. In Part 5 of my Summer Soundtracks Series, I’m talking about a mindset I’m still learning to believe: Growth is the goal, not comfort. It’s easy to quit when things get awkward, inconvenient, or uncomfortable. I’ve done it with goals like YouTube, and I’ve pushed through it with goals like writing my first book. Today I’ll show you why discomfort isn’t a sign something’s going wrong—it’s a sign something’s going right. In This Episode: Grab a Soundtrack...

Transcribed - Published: 4 August 2025

In Part 4 of my Summer Soundtracks Series, I’m unpacking a simple but powerful mindset shift: Win the way you’ve won before. You’ve already succeeded at something in your life—and that win left clues. Today I’ll show you how to find them, repeat them, and bring that momentum into your next goal. Whether it’s a health goal, a career goal, or a personal one, you don’t need to reinvent the wheel. You just need to remember what worked—and do it again. In This Episode: Grab a Soundtrack Conversati...

Transcribed - Published: 28 July 2025

In Part 3 of my Summer Soundtracks Series, I’m talking about one of the most important mindset shifts I’ve ever made: Be your bodyguard, not your bully. How you talk to yourself matters. A lot. In this episode, I’ll walk you through why being kind to yourself isn’t soft—it’s actually one of the strongest things you can do. We’ll talk about hidden ways you might be beating yourself up, what positive aggression looks like, and how to finally have your own back this summer. In This Episode: Grab...

Transcribed - Published: 21 July 2025

This is Part 2 of my Summer Soundtracks Series, and I’ve got another soundtrack for you: “Surround yourself with friends who throw fuel, not water.” We’re talking about the kind of people who help your dreams grow—and the kind who quietly shrink them. I’ll walk you through three questions that will change how you think about your friendships and your mindset. Let’s make this the best summer yet. Tune in today! In This Episode: Grab a Soundtrack Conversation Deck for that overthinker in your l...

Transcribed - Published: 14 July 2025

Have you ever felt frustrated trying to control things that are completely out of your hands? In this episode, I'm kicking off a new summer series where I randomly pick cards from my Soundtracks Conversation Deck and share the mindset shifts that can change everything. Today's soundtrack: "I am the CEO of my actions, not the CEO of my outcomes." We'll talk about why remarkable people focus on what they can control while accepting what they can't, plus I'll share how this one shift helped me s...

Transcribed - Published: 7 July 2025

Do you ever catch yourself saying "I'm too busy" when someone asks you to connect? Mo Bunnell, author of Give to Grow, says that's one of five lies keeping us stuck—and he's got the research to prove it. In this episode, Mo breaks down his "Cut to Climb" process (30 minutes quarterly to find 50 hours you'll never waste again) and his MIT system for weekly planning that actually works. Plus, you'll hear about his genius ChatGPT setups for family, work, and decision-making that sound like somet...

Transcribed - Published: 30 June 2025

A few years ago, Simon Sinek and I had the same editor. Since then, I've had the chance to learn from him, and let me tell you—it's been a game changer. In this episode, I'm sharing three lessons Simon taught me: why you should be able to draw your idea on a napkin, why short beats long every time, and the power of being kind to people behind you. Plus, I'll tell you about an unexpected birthday surprise that perfectly illustrates why the encouragement you put out comes back to you in ways yo...

Transcribed - Published: 23 June 2025

I've never met someone who accidentally got in shape. Or accidentally had a great marriage. Or accidentally built a million-dollar business. You know why? Because awesome is never accidental. In this episode, I'm sharing how this simple 4-word soundtrack will change how you think about achievement. After interacting with hundreds of thousands of people online and learning from CEOs across different industries, I've discovered that successful people are intentional about three specific things:...

Transcribed - Published: 16 June 2025

Ready to continue making this your most intentional summer? In this episode, I'm sharing the final 19 ways to elevate your summer from average to extraordinary. From buying the weirdest thing at your local farmer's market, to exploring your dream neighborhood, to committing to reading with your kids—these actionable ideas will inspire you to make the most of the season. No need to have heard part 1; you can jump right in! Whether you're looking to learn something new (art classes, fly fishing...

Transcribed - Published: 9 June 2025

Summer is here, and in this episode, I'm sharing the first 18 of 37 incredible ways to make this your most remarkable summer yet. Why wait for January to set meaningful goals? From catching up with friends you've been meaning to see, to visiting quirky local attractions you've never explored, this list (created with help from my Guaranteed Goals Community) is packed with ideas that anyone can implement. Whether you're looking to finally try that neighborhood restaurant, learn a new card game,...

Transcribed - Published: 2 June 2025

In this episode, I sit down with Ryan Leak to talk about his new book, How to Work with Complicated People. Ryan shares insights from coaching everyone from CEOs to NBA stars, explaining why talented people are often mislabeled as difficult, and how to maintain boundaries when success accelerates. We explore the warning signs of leaders going off the rails, Ryan's Mount Rushmore of books, and even his predictions for the NBA Finals. Whether you're dealing with complicated people or trying to ...

Transcribed - Published: 26 May 2025

Want to know the simplest leadership principle that makes people elbow each other when I share it on stage? "Leaders who can't be questioned end up doing questionable things." In this episode, I'll share how the gap between the boardroom and the break room creates problems, why your team might be editing their feedback by 15%, and my embarrassing story about a CEO with terrible Zoom lighting (spoiler: everyone lied and said it looked great). Whether you're leading a company, a family, or just...

Transcribed - Published: 19 May 2025

In this episode, I'm delivering the graduation speech I've never been asked to give. I've packed it with seven brutally honest pieces of advice for Gen Z graduates that you won't hear from those boring traditional speakers droning on about "wings" and "moxie." Whether you're 18 or 48, you'll find something in this graduation manifesto that might just change your life. And no, I didn't bring merch to sell afterward (though I definitely would if they'd let me). In This Episode: Make sure to fo...

Transcribed - Published: 12 May 2025

In this episode, I share my revelation about accepting who you are instead of constantly trying to transform into someone else. I'll also tell you about my Phoenix epiphany, where I discovered that pushing through just 11 minutes of resistance unlocks flow in the work you're meant to do. Life gets easier when you stop swimming against your current. In This Episode: Make sure to follow me on Instagram and share with your friends! Keep up with my book list on GoodReads! Sign up for my newsle...

Transcribed - Published: 5 May 2025

In this episode, I'm sharing six powerful words that completely changed my perspective on fear and hope. I'll tell you some embarrassing stories about my brain's automatic negativity (including how I ruined a surprise party and why I'd be terrible at running a popsicle stand), plus give you the practical hope-building strategies I use every single day. Because remember—fear shows up uninvited, but hope is worth working for! In This Episode: Make sure to follow me on Instagram and share with ...

Transcribed - Published: 28 April 2025

In this episode, I sit down with my younger brother Will—founder of Corner to Corner and author of No Elevator at Everest—for a raw, hilarious, and deeply meaningful conversation about goals, grit, and joy in the midst of real-life challenges. We talk about family dynamics, stolen cars, late-night wake ups, and the kind of leadership that gets built when nobody's watching. If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to lead with purpose when life doesn’t slow down, this episode is for you. Wi...

Transcribed - Published: 21 April 2025

In this episode, I’m sharing one of my favorite soundtracks: It will be a success or a story. It’s the mindset I use every time I try something new—like hosting a live event or leading a book club that nobody shows up to (yep, that actually happened… to a brave 9-year-old and to me). Whether your next goal works out exactly like you hoped or turns into a story you’ll tell for years, this episode will remind you that both outcomes are worth it. In This Episode: Make sure to follow me on Insta...

Transcribed - Published: 14 April 2025

In this episode, I’m sharing one of my favorite soundtracks: It will be a success or a story. It’s the mindset I use every time I try something new—like hosting a live event or leading a book club that nobody shows up to (yep, that actually happened… to a brave 9-year-old and to me). Whether your next goal works out exactly like you hoped or turns into a story you’ll tell for years, this episode will remind you that both outcomes are worth it. In This Episode: Make sure to follow me on Insta...

Transcribed - Published: 14 April 2025

Not every friend deserves front-row seats to your dreams. In this episode, I’m unpacking one question that completely changed how I think about relationships—and why some quietly discourage your growth. If you’ve ever wondered why a big idea fizzled or who to trust with your next bold goal, this one's for you. Let's talk about finding fuel friends and avoiding the sneaky word that can sink your progress: still. In This Episode: Make sure to follow me on Instagram and share with your friends! ...

Transcribed - Published: 7 April 2025

Encouragement isn’t just something you give—it’s something you get. When you take the time to lift someone else up, you walk away stronger too. In this episode, I’m sharing why encouragement matters and how it shows up in unexpected ways (including a recent story about my experience at my favorite Wendy’s restaurant). I’ll also share why I’m so excited about my Remarkable You live event coming up in less than two weeks! Let’s talk about how to encourage others and refresh ourselves in the pr...

Transcribed - Published: 31 March 2025

Starting is hard. Whether it’s running, writing a book, or driving home after a big event, the beginning never feels as good as the finish. But here’s the truth—you don’t have to feel awesome to get started. You’ll feel awesome after. In this episode, we’re talking about pushing through the messy middle, why the best dreams start in black and white but end in technicolor, and how action creates momentum. If you’re waiting to feel ready, don’t. Just start. In This Episode: Make sure to follow...

Transcribed - Published: 24 March 2025

Nobody loves hills. Whether you’re running, traveling, or chasing a big goal, the uphill parts feel the hardest. But here’s the thing—hills pay the bills. They make you stronger, tougher, and better prepared for what’s next. In this episode, we’re talking about how to reframe hard things, why travel always comes with some woes, and how embracing the climb can lead to the biggest rewards. Because the best things in life? They’re usually at the top of a hill. Let’s start climbing. In This Epis...

Transcribed - Published: 17 March 2025

Fear loves to run its mouth. It shouts worst-case scenarios, whispers doubts, and reminds you of every past failure. But here’s the deal—fear gets a voice, not a vote. In this episode, we’re talking about how to manage the soundtracks fear plays in your head and how to make sure it doesn’t get a say in your decisions. Because if you’re waiting to feel 100% fearless before you take action, you’ll be waiting forever. Let’s flip the script and move forward anyway. In This Episode: Make sure to ...

Transcribed - Published: 10 March 2025

I spent 1,000 hours outside in 2024—not because I’m a rugged outdoorsman, but because I realized fresh air and big skies make life better. Along the way, I learned four surprising lessons about goals, marriage, and why keeping things simple is the key to actually finishing. If you’ve ever wanted to try a big goal (or just set up a tent without an argument), this episode is for you. In This Episode: Make sure to follow me on Instagram and share with your friends! Keep up with my book list on...

Transcribed - Published: 3 March 2025

Do you ever feel frustrated that you can’t afford something you really want? My nephew Anderson did. He wanted to go duck hunting and buy a dog—but his bank account had other plans. In this episode, I show him (and you) how to turn frustration into fuel, why a “When I have money, I’ll pay for ___” list changes everything, and how small sacrifices lead to big wins. The goals you can’t see are invisible—so let’s make them clear and take action. Your choice: frustration or fuel. In This Episode...

Transcribed - Published: 24 February 2025

Do you ever wonder why so many people settle for average? I waited until I was 37 to deal with my procrastination—what was I waiting for? In this episode, I break down the 7 biggest reasons people don’t choose remarkable, why it’s always a choice, and how to stop waiting and start moving. The options are clear: remarkable or average. Let’s talk about how to actually choose remarkable. In This Episode: Make sure to follow me on Instagram and share with your friends! Keep up with my book list...

Transcribed - Published: 17 February 2025

After 14 years of business travel, I finally hit Delta Diamond Medallion Status—but not for the reasons you might think. In this episode, I break down why I still fly Southwest most of the time, how our daily decisions reveal what we truly value, and why matching your actions to your intentions is the key to success. Whether it’s airline choices, career moves, or how you spend your Saturdays, the choices you make, make you. Let’s talk about how to make better ones. In This Episode: Make sure...

Transcribed - Published: 10 February 2025

What if the key to real transformation has been hiding in plain sight? In this episode, I sit down with Ian Morgan Cron—bestselling author, psychotherapist, and Enneagram expert—to talk about his brand-new book, The Fix: How the Twelve Steps Offer a Surprising Path of Transformation for the Well-Adjusted, the Down-and-Out, and Everyone In Between. We dive into why the 12 Steps aren’t just for people in recovery, how they offer a practical roadmap for anyone feeling stuck, and how self-aware...

Transcribed - Published: 3 February 2025

If I spoke to my wife the way I talk to myself, we’d be divorced. Success doesn’t come from being your own worst critic—it comes from learning to be your best friend. In this episode, I’m sharing how kindness, simplicity, and a little grace can change everything.In This Episode:Make sure to follow me on Instagram and share with your friends!Keep up with my book list on GoodReads!Sign up for my newsletter, Try This!Book me to speak at your event or to your team!My new book All It Takes Is a Go...

Transcribed - Published: 27 January 2025

This year, I'm embracing a new mantra: "I don't want to be relatable; I want to be remarkable." In this episode, I share the pivotal moment that led to this revelation and how it’s shaping my approach to life and goals in 2025. Join me as we explore what it means to pursue a remarkable life and how you can do the same. Plus, discover details about my upcoming live event, "Remarkable YOU," happening April 14-15, 2025, in Franklin, TN. Get your ticket at jonacuff.com/live. Let's make 2025 the y...

Transcribed - Published: 20 January 2025

How do you set goals that bring more fun and connection into your life? In Part 2, I’m sharing my relationship and fun goals for 2025, from daily encouragement to remarkable hours and spending July in the mountains. Let’s make this year about more than just work—it’s time to focus on what matters most.In This Episode:Grab your ticket for Jon’s Remarkable You Live Event!Make sure to follow me on Instagram and share with your friends!Keep up with my book list on GoodReads!Sign up for my newslet...

Transcribed - Published: 13 January 2025

What’s the secret to setting goals you’ll actually stick to? In this episode, I’m sharing Part 1 of my 2025 goals, from running 700 miles to writing half a million words, and the strategies I’m using to make them happen. Let’s tackle our goals together.In This Episode:Grab your ticket for Jon’s Remarkable You Live Event!Make sure to follow me on Instagram and share with your friends!Keep up with my book list on GoodReads!Sign up for my newsletter, Try This!Book me to speak at your event or to...

Transcribed - Published: 6 January 2025

Your brain loves time travel—regretting the past or worrying about the future—but distraction won’t help you hit your goals. In this episode, I’ll share why staying present is the secret to making real progress. From narrating your day to rewriting your future with optimism, we’ll talk about how to redirect your focus and use your imagination to fuel your goals, not your fears. Let’s tweak the coordinates and get you back on track.In This Episode:Grab your ticket for Jon’s Remarkable You Live...

Transcribed - Published: 30 December 2024

This year, I read more than 100 books. Why so many? Because I wanted to! And because I chose to make time for it. In this episode, I’ll share my favorite tips for reading more in 2025 (spoiler alert: it starts with saying no to mediocre TV). You’ll also get my 7 top picks, from classic detective novels to soul-nourishing wisdom and even a little “woo woo” that actually works. If you’re ready to find your next great read, this episode is for you.My 2024 Book List:1. "The Choice" by Og Mandino2...

Transcribed - Published: 23 December 2024

Resilience isn’t about never hitting obstacles—it’s about using them to your advantage. In this episode, I’m sharing 8 simple, practical ideas that will help you bounce back faster, push past limits, and build momentum like never before. Whether it’s flipping how you see challenges, making decisions before the pressure hits, or embracing tiny experiments that lead to big wins, these ideas will help you show up stronger and braver. Let’s dive in!In This Episode:Sign up for my newsletter, Try T...

Transcribed - Published: 16 December 2024