You Don't Need More Motivation
The science of purpose, drive, and moving forward when the spark fades.
I used to think transformation started with willpower.
Now I know—it starts with willingness.
Willingness to look inward.
Willingness to be honest.
Willingness to stop performing and start listening.
Hi friends,
When something feels off—our instinct is to fix what’s visible.
Change the job. Upgrade the schedule. Power through the discomfort.
But what if the problem isn’t out there? What if it’s something within that’s asking to be seen?
This week on Passion Struck, we’re not chasing hacks.
We’re talking about healing. Alignment. And the courage it takes to confront what drives us when we’re not looking.
Because here’s the truth:
You can’t change your outer world until you’re willing to face your inner one.
And when you do? Everything else starts to shift.
🎧 What’s New on the Podcast This Week
We’re now in week three of our July series: The Power to Change: Rewiring Thoughts, Behavior, and Emotion.
This week is all about meaning and motivation—what fuels us, what fulfills us, and how we move from surviving to thriving.
Here’s what’s coming this week:
Tuesday – Steven Heine
Culture, Purpose, and the Psychology of Meaning
How does culture shape the way we experience identity and purpose? Steven Heine, a pioneer in cultural psychology, unpacks the hidden influences behind our motivations—and what it really means to lead a meaningful life across different contexts.
Thursday – Michelle Chalfant
The Adult Chair: Psychology, Spirituality, and the Search for Wholeness
Therapist and creator of The Adult Chair model, Michelle Chalfant, bridges psychology and spirituality to help us understand what drives our behaviors—and how stepping into emotional responsibility can transform our relationships, work, and self-worth.
Friday – Brad Deflin
Digital Trust and Human Leadership in an Uncertain World
Brad Deflin, cybersecurity expert and CEO of Total Digital Security, explores how trust, motivation, and leadership evolve in a tech-driven age. A timely conversation about courage, privacy, and leading with clarity when the world feels unpredictable.
In Case You Missed It
🎧 Keila Shaheen — Episode 634
The Shadow and the Self
Healing begins when we reclaim the parts of ourselves we were taught to hide. Keila Shaheen offers a grounded guide to integration, wholeness, and self-acceptance.
🎧 Christopher Connors — Episode 635
Leading with Emotional Intelligence
Leadership starts with inner awareness. Learn how emotional intelligence shapes influence, trust, and lasting growth.
✨ This Week’s Spark
Try this:
Instead of asking, “How do I fix this?”
Ask, “What part of me is asking to be seen right now?”
Because most of the time, the thing we’re trying to solve…It
isn’t the real problem.
It’s a mirror.
Reflecting a fear.
A story.
A part of you still trying to feel safe.
Real growth doesn’t come from doing more. It comes from seeing more—with honesty, compassion, and courage.
Let’s Keep Growing Together
This week, I hope you give yourself the gift of slowing down to connect. To notice what’s underneath the noise. To meet the version of you that’s been waiting for your attention—not your judgment.
And if one of this week’s episodes stirred something in you, I’d love to know. Just hit reply and share what landed. I am honored when people respond, and I read every message.
Until next time,
—John
Live like you matter.