All It Takes Is A Goal

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

Want to start the new year braver? In this episode, I’m sharing 8 quick soundtracks to tackle fear, crush overthinking, and jumpstart your courage. From turning stress into success to being as brave as your kids, these ideas will help you hit the ground running on your biggest goals. Let’s make this your boldest year yet!In This Episode:Sign up for my newsletter, Try This!Follow me on GoodReadsBook me to speak at your event or to your team!I'm also on Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, and Facebook...

Transcribed - Published: 9 December 2024

I love a good list, especially when it’s packed with amazing gift ideas. This year, I’m sharing 10 of our family’s favorite finds from 2024—things we’ve bought, loved, and can’t stop talking about. From a tiny acorn-growing vase to the Finish Journal I helped design, these are gifts that are practical, fun, and guaranteed to make you a holiday hero. (Don’t worry, I left the mole trap off the list.) Tune in and let’s make your shopping a whole lot easier this year!10 Fantastic Gift Ideas!Acorn...

Transcribed - Published: 2 December 2024

Have you ever wondered why success sometimes feels like a game of dodgeball, with distractions flying at you from every direction? Join me in this episode as I interview Craig Groeschel, New York Times bestselling author, and the founder and senior pastor of Life.Church, which created the free YouVersion Bible App.We’re diving deep into the wild world of leadership and uncovering how to navigate the pitfalls of achievement. From battling the boss called pride to building a fortress of account...

Transcribed - Published: 25 November 2024

Thanksgiving is practically designed for family debates, especially the kind that get sparked right as you’re reaching for the mashed potatoes. But this year, I’ve got one sentence that will change everything: “Politicians are temporary, family is forever.” In this episode, we’re talking about how to keep things calm, keep your cool, and maybe even enjoy the meal without ducking into the pantry for a pie break. Give it a listen, and let’s make this Thanksgiving one that’s memorable—in a good ...

Transcribed - Published: 18 November 2024

I had an awesome conversation with my friend, Graham Cochrane, about goal-setting, career pivots, and discovering your unique purpose. We dove into the pressures we face, how to manage overthinking, and why it’s so important to pursue a life that aligns with who you really are. If you’re struggling with work-life balance, thinking about making a business shift, or just need help pushing past self-doubt, this episode is packed with practical insights you can use. Graham also shares some wisdom...

Transcribed - Published: 11 November 2024

You've probably heard the classic quote, “You’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” But what does that really mean for your life? In this episode, I’ll break down why your circle isn’t just a group of friends—it’s a blueprint for who you’re becoming. I’ll share personal stories, like how running with friends unexpectedly made me faster and how the right people can level up every area of your life. Plus, I'll give you three super practical ways to put this concept in...

Transcribed - Published: 4 November 2024

I have a prediction for you—2025 is going to be your Greatest Year Ever. You’re going to tackle those big goals, beat procrastination, perfectionism, and all the usual roadblocks, and it all starts now. In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how you can make that happen with my new 8-week challenge designed to help you start 2025 with a rock-solid mindset, a clear plan, and the tools to make success inevitable.If you’ve ever felt like you're stuck or unsure of how to take that next big st...

Transcribed - Published: 28 October 2024

It’s the 200th episode of the podcast! I can’t believe we’ve reached this milestone together. In this episode, we’re talking about election stress and how to handle it. You know those anxious soundtracks that play on repeat in your head during election season? They’re exhausting, but they don’t have to control you. Today, I’m sharing 7 practical election soundtracks that will help you survive the stress, get more sleep, and stay focused on what really matters. From looking forward to the futu...

Transcribed - Published: 21 October 2024

I don’t usually do breaking podcasts, but this story was too incredible not to share. My guest, David Jones, reached out with a story that perfectly ties into Soundtracks. When a hurricane hit western North Carolina, David faced a series of impossible obstacles trying to reach his daughter’s wedding. But he made it—on foot, through the devastation, determined to walk her down the aisle. In this episode, David shares his unbelievable journey and how the soundtracks he used helped him keep goin...

Transcribed - Published: 14 October 2024

Have you ever felt like quitting? I have. And in this episode, we’re going to talk about two powerful ways to change how you feel when you’re at that breaking point. This is a lean-in episode, so I need you to lean in with me. I see something incredible in you—your potential, your joy, your success—even if you don’t see it yet. Together, we’ll explore how to turn those negative thoughts into ones that push you forward, not hold you back.And if you're ready to take this mindset shift to the ne...

Transcribed - Published: 7 October 2024

In this episode, I’m diving into three big lies that I think are putting way too much pressure on Gen Z and Millennials—“Do it while you’re young,” “Don’t grow up, it’s a trap,” and the idea that you have to choose between joy and responsibility. I used to believe some of these myself, but now that I’m in my 40s, I’ve learned something better. You don’t have to choose between making memories and building a life you love. Join me as I share some personal stories, lessons I’ve learned, and why ...

Transcribed - Published: 30 September 2024

In this episode, I’m sharing some of the meanest things my kids have ever said to me—and trust me, they’re hilarious. We’ll also dive into a common myth that makes parenting way harder than it has to be. If you’ve ever believed raising teens has to be a nightmare, I’m here to tell you it doesn’t. A simple mindset shift can change everything. And since we’re in the middle of a parenting season on the podcast, don’t forget to check out my brand new book How Teens Win, co-written with my two dau...

Transcribed - Published: 23 September 2024

Does your teenager barely talk to you anymore? In this episode, I’ll not only explain why that happens, but also how to change it. I’ll share three soundtracks that make starting conversations with your kids easier, plus a personal story about dreaming big with my daughter. If you want to build stronger connections with your teens, check out my new book, How Teens Win, that I co-wrote with my daughters. It’s available now wherever books are sold!In This Episode:Sign up for my newsletter, Try ...

Transcribed - Published: 16 September 2024

Have you ever wondered how teens can actually win at social media instead of just surviving it? In this episode, I’m sharing three key soundtracks that will help teens thrive online. From building a positive presence and setting healthy boundaries, to avoiding the comparison trap, I’ll give you practical tips to make sure social media is working for your teen, not against them. We’re in the middle of a big parenting season at the Acuff house! I’ve got a brand new book coming out that I wrote ...

Transcribed - Published: 9 September 2024

In this episode, I’m giving you an exclusive sneak peek into our new book How Teens Win, which releases on September 10. First, I’ll read the intro to set the stage, and then my daughter LE will take over with the first chapter. It’s a little taste of the wisdom, laughs, and real-life advice we’ve packed into this book. Whether you’re a teen, parent, grandparent, teacher, or coach (or just someone who loves a good story), this episode is for you. Listen and hear why How Teens Win isn’t just a...

Transcribed - Published: 2 September 2024

Ever feel like your brain is stuck in a loop of worries? In this episode, I’m sharing one simple trick that will help you worry less and accomplish more.Here’s how it started: On a Sunday afternoon, the number 5 kept bouncing around in my head. I needed to run 5 miles, but every part of me wanted to bail. My brain was pulling out all the stops to convince me not to do it. But instead of letting those worries win, I decided to flip the script.In this episode, I’ll show you how repeating a sing...

Transcribed - Published: 26 August 2024

In this episode, I’m hanging out with my daughter McRae to chat about one of our family’s go-to topics: soundtracks. We’re digging into how the soundtracks in our heads help us set goals, dodge those unforced errors, and make life a little more fun. Whether it’s packing your lunch the night before or remembering to put your shoes on first (trust me, it’s a game-changer), we’ll share the stories and quirky lessons that have become the soundtracks we live by. And yes, we’ll even tackle why show...

Transcribed - Published: 19 August 2024

In this episode, I dive into two powerful ways to change how you feel when you want to quit. Fear often targets those who dare to dream and it uses surprise and the "shouldn't feel this way" tactic to hold you back. I'll share my practical "If/Then" thinking and how repetition and relationships can help you push through fear. Learn to anticipate fear's tricks, prepare for them, and find the support you need to stay motivated. Don’t let fear dictate your journey—beat it with these essential to...

Transcribed - Published: 12 August 2024

I still remember the first time I tried email in 1997. I thought it was terrible and wouldn’t catch on. Fast forward to today, and email has improved (and definitely caught on!) but remains a constant distraction.This year, I decided to tackle my inbox by limiting email checks to 30 focused minutes a day, five days a week. The results were transformative. I received fewer emails, realized I wasn’t as essential as I thought, and boosted my productivity, tripling my writing output. The discipli...

Transcribed - Published: 5 August 2024

What did I learn from a 10-second interaction with a billionaire CEO? Join me for this episode, as I recount a pivotal moment with Dan Cathy, CEO of Chick-fil-A. Fourteen years ago, I had the privilege of working with Dan and learned invaluable lessons on leadership and humility. From taking out the trash to teaching a high school Sunday School class, Dan's actions demonstrated his commitment to serving others. True success lies in valuing human connections and being open to interruptions. Le...

Transcribed - Published: 29 July 2024