Home
Categories
EXPLORE
True Crime
Comedy
Society & Culture
Business
News
Sports
TV & Film
About Us
Contact Us
Copyright
© 2024 PodJoint
Podjoint Logo
US
00:00 / 00:00
Sign in

or

Don't have an account?
Sign up
Forgot password
https://is1-ssl.mzstatic.com/image/thumb/Podcasts221/v4/a6/27/d5/a627d58d-e0a8-a306-ee23-05fd7f671e5c/mza_7484911691640351456.jpg/600x600bb.jpg
Persistence Playbook
Brett McDermott
145 episodes
1 day ago
Welcome to Persistence Playbook—the podcast that helps entrepreneurs defeat resistance and do the important work they were meant to do. Most people don’t struggle with what to do—they struggle with doing it consistently. Adversity, self-doubt, and internal resistance stop more dreams than lack of knowledge ever will. So how do the world’s most relentless achievers keep showing up, day after day? What thoughts, habits, and communities fuel their unstoppable momentum? We’re here to find out—so you can push past resistance and take action no matter what.
Show more...
Self-Improvement
Education
RSS
All content for Persistence Playbook is the property of Brett McDermott and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Welcome to Persistence Playbook—the podcast that helps entrepreneurs defeat resistance and do the important work they were meant to do. Most people don’t struggle with what to do—they struggle with doing it consistently. Adversity, self-doubt, and internal resistance stop more dreams than lack of knowledge ever will. So how do the world’s most relentless achievers keep showing up, day after day? What thoughts, habits, and communities fuel their unstoppable momentum? We’re here to find out—so you can push past resistance and take action no matter what.
Show more...
Self-Improvement
Education
Episodes (20/145)
Persistence Playbook
#144 - How to Leverage the Power of Affirmations to Transform Your Life

Today we sit down with Brett McDermott for a myth-busting episode of Persistence Playbook that rewires how you think about affirmations. If you’re a regular listener, you know Brett doesn’t do fluff—he delivers frameworks that actually work.

This time, he breaks down why most affirmations fail—and how to make them stick.

If you’re new here, get ready to learn why “I am confident” might be hurting more than helping, and how to speak to yourself in a way your brain actually believes.


Key Takeaways

  • Affirmations must be believable to work
  • Anchor your words to action and emotion
  • Use affirmations where resistance lives—not just in the mirror
  • Repetition + imagery = rewiring
Show more...
1 week ago
7 minutes 38 seconds

Persistence Playbook
Top Episode Revisited: #89-Evan Carmichael-Use Your Calendar to build self Belief

Today we sit down with Evan Carmichael, the same powerhouse you know from YouTube, to discuss all things mindset, fear, and success.

Evan shares his insights on fighting through fear, believing in yourself, and why that’s the fuel to achieving your biggest goals. We also dive into his unique strategy of theming your days to stay on track and keep your business afloat. You won't want to miss this episode where Evan reveals the simple yet powerful mindset shifts that can transform not only your day-to-day but your entire trajectory.

Wondering how to beat self-doubt, push forward with clarity, and finally take control of your time and success? Tune in and discover what it takes to break through fear and build your way to the life you’ve been chasing.

Books 

Your One Word Book - The Powerful Secret to Creating a Business and Life That Matter ⁠⁠http://www.evancarmichael.com/oneword/⁠⁠ 

Top 10 Rules for Success: Rules to Succeed in Business and Life from Titans, Billionaires, & Leaders who Changed the World ⁠⁠http://www.evancarmichael.com/top10/⁠⁠ 

254 Confidence: Your daily guide to building unstoppable confidence in your life, work, and relationships. ⁠⁠https://amzn.to/2L2WnqA⁠⁠ 

3 Point Landing Journal: Your powerful companion to go from just watching another video to actually taking action in your life ⁠⁠https://amzn.to/2MHabdR⁠

Show more...
2 weeks ago
27 minutes 33 seconds

Persistence Playbook
#143 - How Entrepreneurs Can Rewire Their Brains and Shed Limiting Beliefs with Ashleigh Di Lello

Today we sit down with Brett McDermott and neuroscience expert Ashleigh Di Lello for a powerful episode of Persistence Playbook. If you’re a regular listener, you know Brett brings more than motivation—he delivers mental rewiring strategies that stick.

This time, Ashleigh breaks down how to override your brain’s craving for comfort and build the willpower to take action—even when you don’t feel like it.

If you’re new here, get ready to learn why your brain resists change, and how to train it to work for you—not against you.


Key Takeaways

  • Your brain is wired for familiarity, not growth—but you can rewire it
  • Willpower is a muscle, and it grows with use
  • Identity shapes behavior: stop saying “I’m not disciplined”
  • Dopamine from effort > dopamine from distraction
  • Silence and self-talk are tools for mental conditioning


Show more...
3 weeks ago
54 minutes 22 seconds

Persistence Playbook
#142 - The Power of the Pause: How Intentional Silence Amplifies Your Influence

Today we sit down with Brett McDermott for a masterclass in one of the most underrated leadership tools: silence. In this episode of Persistence Playbook, Brett unpacks how intentional pauses can transform your presence, your message, and your impact.

If you’re a regular listener, you know Brett doesn’t just drop insights—he delivers strategies you can use by Monday morning.

If you’re new here, get ready to learn why the most charismatic communicators aren’t the ones who talk the most—they’re the ones who know when to stop.

Key Takeaways

  • Pausing signals confidence, commands attention, and invites connection
  • Silence helps sync brainwaves between speaker and listener
  • Five types of pauses you can start using today—from grounding to emphasis to reset
  • Charisma isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence


Show more...
4 weeks ago
12 minutes 51 seconds

Persistence Playbook
#141 - How to Have the Mindset of the Unstoppable with Selena Rezvani

Today, we sit down with Brett McDermott and the world's top thought leader on workplace confidence, Selena Rezvani, for a transformative new episode on The Persistence Playbook.


Selena redefines confidence not as fixed bravado or manicured perfection, but as a daily practice of curiosity, humor, and a learner’s mindset. Dive into the strategies to defeat the comparison trap, master the power of nonverbal communication, and build the "ego cookie" of self-trust by making and keeping small promises. Selena provides the strategies, tactics, and game plan you need to be your most confident self when you show up for work on Monday morning.


As always, if you’re a regular listener, you know Brett doesn’t just talk theory, he brings structure. If you’re new here, get ready to learn why your confidence is not a fixed trait—it's a habit you can build daily.


Key Takeaways

  • Confidence is a habit set that requires a learner's mindset and a sense of humor about life's setbacks.
  • The ability to make and keep promises to yourself is a muscle and is roughly 75% of your confidence foundation.
  • When your confidence takes a hit, reframe the situation with this mantra: "I'm either going to win, or I'm going to learn," effectively taking failure off the table.
  • To instantly feel more powerful, recruit your body—adjust your posture and take up more space—and your mind's confidence will follow.
  • Leaders can transfer confidence to their teams by using micro-actions like deferring to others, reverse delegating, and giving specific public credit.
Show more...
1 month ago
44 minutes 58 seconds

Persistence Playbook
#140 - How to Build a Workplace Culture of Trust with Minda Harts

In this episode of the Persistence Playbook, host Brett McDermott sits down with acclaimed writer and speaker Minda Harts to uncover the secrets to building a thriving workplace culture. Why is trust the most valuable currency for modern leaders? Minda introduces her revolutionary "Seven Trust Languages" framework, giving you the playbook to defeat workplace resistance and empower your team to do their best work.


Whether you're a seasoned executive or a solopreneur aiming to grow, this is a must-listen on how to create a foundation of trust that drives productivity and retention.


Key Takeaways

  • Trust is a global language—it's as important in the workplace as it is in your personal life.
  • Micromanagement and a lack of transparency can quickly erode trust, creating anxiety and ambiguity for employees.
  • The power of specificity: Acknowledging an employee's contributions with specific, heartfelt praise is a free and effective way to build morale.
  • Leaders must demonstrate, not just declare their values, backing up their words with consistent actions.
  • Workplace trauma can occur when employees feel unsafe, unseen, or blocked from growth.

Show more...
1 month ago
36 minutes 28 seconds

Persistence Playbook
#139 - Empty Your Backpack: How to Shed Your Limiting Beliefs with Sam Demma

In this episode of The Persistence Playbook, join Brett McDermott as he sits down with author, keynote speaker, and entrepreneur Sam Demma—founder of the High School Assembly Tour, a program that’s inspired thousands of students.Sam Demma shares the powerful concept of "emptying our backpack", a metaphor for shedding the limiting beliefs and negative opinions we've been carrying. He shares his personal origin story and a revelation from a neighbor that inspired him to shift from a strategic mindset to one of passion and authenticity. We also explore the importance of creating "primary evidence" through new experiences that challenge your old stories about yourself.

Key Takeaways

  • The number one way to become a better storyteller is to simply tell more stories.
  • Overcome limiting beliefs by creating "primary evidence" through new experiences that challenge your old stories about yourself.
  • The best stories aren't always about epic moments; they're often found in the small, interesting things that happen in our daily lives.
  • "Stop playing for the points and start playing for the love of the game" to find both joy and success in your work.


Show more...
1 month ago
34 minutes 22 seconds

Persistence Playbook
#138 - Sleep Like a Pro, Perform Like a Champion with Dr. Greg Wells

Elite performance isn’t just about grit—it starts when your eyes are closed. In this episode, human performance expert Dr. Greg Wells joins Brett to reveal how mastering sleep can unlock next-level energy and focus. From breaking his neck as a competitive swimmer to becoming a leading physiologist, Dr. Wells shares science-backed habits to help you outsmart the afternoon slump and wake up sharper every day.

If you’re new here, get ready to learn why a 15-minute walk can be more effective than a nap and how getting just 10-20% more deep sleep can give you a significant edge in your daily life.


Key Takeaways

  • Sleep drives success: Tonight’s rest determines tomorrow’s results.
  • Guard the last hour: Ditch screens and stimulation so melatonin can do its job.
  • Beat the crash: A brisk 15-minute midday walk can revive energy better than a nap.
  • Aim for 7–8 hours: This sweet spot supports longevity and overall health.
  • Keep the rhythm: Consistent bedtimes train your body to fall asleep—and stay asleep.
  • Check persistent oversleeping: Regularly needing 9+ hours may signal an underlying issue.
  • Morning trifecta: Breathe, hydrate with a liter of water, and get sunlight before grabbing your phone.


Show more...
1 month ago
56 minutes 56 seconds

Persistence Playbook
#137 - How to have an Undefeated Morning with Chris Welton

In this episode of the Persistence Playbook, host Brett McDermott sits down with bestselling author, speaker, and coach, Chris Welton. Chris is a resilience expert with a fascinating journey, from a childhood upheaval and limb difference to becoming an impactful leader.

Chris breaks down what it truly means to turn adversity into action and how to have an "Undefeated Morning" by stacking wins before the day even begins. He reveals how to use your personal story as your greatest superpower and why vulnerability is key to captivating an audience of any size. This conversation navigates the importance of powerful communication, the art of the pause, and the discipline of living a life by design.

If your life feels more like chaos than a consistent winning streak, this episode offers a grounded roadmap for taking control of your outcomes by making and keeping promises to yourself.

Takeaways

  • Telling a true story is a superpower from the heart can captivate an audience and why vulnerability is so powerful in that space.
  • Intentional pauses can keep your audience on the edge of their seats and make your message more impactful.
  • Your past challenges is a source of strength and proof that you can overcome anything.
  • Your standards must be greater than your feelings, it teaches to live a life by design.
  • Earn Your Dopamine: Get strategies for not picking up your phone first thing in the morning and instead, earning the right to your rewards by completing tasks for yourself first.
Show more...
2 months ago
46 minutes 20 seconds

Persistence Playbook
#136 - How Entrepreneurs Can Optimize Their Focus

What if the only thing holding you back isn’t lack of ideas, but lack of focus? In this episode, Brett McDermott unpacks how entrepreneurs can cut through daily resistance and lock in on the work that really moves the needle.


If you're new here, get ready to learn why a long list of tasks can be a bad idea, and how to work in "structured sprints" instead of "endless marathons". From defeating distractions to structuring your time like a pro, this conversation is all about building the focus muscle that separates busy work from meaningful progress.


Key Takeaways:

  • Set clear intentions and stick to a short list of priorities.
  • Work in 50–90 minute sprints instead of grinding endlessly.
  • Cut digital distractions—every interruption costs more than you think.
  • Fuel your brain: hydrate and eat protein-rich meals.
  • Single-task and practice mindfulness to sharpen attention.
  • Protect your sleep—it’s the ultimate foundation for focus.



Show more...
2 months ago
13 minutes 9 seconds

Persistence Playbook
#135-The Art of Human Connection: How Reading Facial Expressions Can Set you Apart

Today we sit down with Brian Galke; founder of SubtleSkills, keynote speaker, trainer, and self-proclaimed “awesome podcast guest.” With a career built on teaching others how to unlock the power of human connection, Brian has developed an eye for the nuances that often go unnoticed in our daily interactions.

In this conversation, Brian pulls back the curtain on the hidden language of the face. From the way our eyebrows frame connection, to the subtle cues that reveal how someone learns and engages. What begins as a discussion on facial features unfolds into a deeper exploration of presence, trust, and the kind of interpersonal skills that can’t be automated.

Listeners will find themselves rethinking the role of eye contact, noticing what technology is quietly eroding, and questioning whether technical expertise alone can sustain success in a world where soft skills are becoming the true currency.

Takeaways

  • Decoding facial features can significantly enhance interpersonal connections.
  • The rise of technology has led to a decline in face-to-face interactions.
  • Understanding learning styles based on facial features can improve communication.
  • Soft skills are essential for standing out in an AI-driven job market.


Show more...
2 months ago
49 minutes 42 seconds

Persistence Playbook
#134- There is No Substitution for Putting in the Reps in Entrepreneurship with Juan Bendana

Today, we sit down with Juan Bendana: A motivational keynote speaker and best-selling author who’s built a career on showing people what’s possible when persistence meets intention. Known for his ability to turn fear into fuel, Juan has inspired audiences across the globe to step past hesitation and into the kind of action that changes everything.

In our conversation, Juan shares the real story behind his journey; the moments that nearly stopped him, the feedback that reshaped him, and the practices that helped him master his craft. He reflects on how self-talk can quietly dictate success, why time management is less about clocks and more about choices, and the unseen role personal branding plays in creating lasting opportunities. His perspective on acting from goals instead of feelings, and on clearing obstacles instead of stacking strategies, offers a way of thinking that lingers long after the conversation ends.

Some of what Juan shares might feel familiar, until it doesn’t. Because the difference isn’t always in knowing what to do, but in finally seeing it in a way that makes you act.

Takeaways

-Persistence is often not measured in short bursts but in long-term commitment.

-Removing obstacles can be more impactful than adding new strategies.

-The smallest decisions can lead to significant life changes.

-Acting based on goals rather than feelings can transform your life.

-Creating a personal brand is vital for success in any field.

-Confidence is built through action and evidence of success.

Show more...
2 months ago
56 minutes 21 seconds

Persistence Playbook
#133- 10 Ways Entrepreneurs Can Find Their True Path

If you’ve been rocking with Persistence Playbook for a while, you already know Brett doesn’t just love a solid list. He builds with it. But for the newcomers, welcome. 

Around here, lists aren’t about ticking boxes they’re tools for transformation and this week, Brett’s taking the mic solo giving you 10 practical ways, to gain clarity on your purpose—not in theory, but in practice.

From creating mental space to revisiting your earliest passions, this episode is a field guide for designing a more meaningful, self-defined life. Expect insights like:

– Reflecting on childhood passions to reconnect with current interests

– Visualizing your own funeral to uncover what truly matters

– Auditing your energy to notice what drains vs. what drives

– Having conversations with people you admire for lived insight

You’re probably thinking some of these sound familiar. That’s because they are. When you’re committed to doing what matters most, sometimes the most powerful answers are the ones you’ve heard before. Only now, you’re ready to use them.

Clarity isn’t always about chasing something new. Sometimes, it’s about recognizing what’s been waiting for you all along. So if your to-do list has started to feel like a performance instead of a path, this one’s for you.

Show more...
3 months ago
7 minutes 56 seconds

Persistence Playbook
#132-Lessons From Kobe and Curry- Why Mastering the Fundamentals are the Key to Your Success

Today we sit down with Alan Stein Jr., keynote speaker, performance coach, and author known for bridging the worlds of elite athletics and high-level entrepreneurship. With decades of experience working with top athletes, Alan shares how the habits that build champions on the court can also build clarity, consistency, and confidence in business.

In this episode, Alan breaks down why discipline, not motivation is the real driver of success, and how mastering the fundamentals is more impactful than chasing the next hack. He explores the dangers of the comparison trap, offers practical productivity tactics, and explains how self-awareness can become your competitive edge. Through honest reflection and actionable insight, Alan shows how personal growth begins with how we talk to ourselves and how we lead ourselves when no one is watching.

If you’ve ever felt like you're doing everything right but still not moving forward, this conversation will help you refocus on what actually matters.

Takeaways

  • - Avoiding the comparison trap is crucial for success

  • - Discipline is a decision, not an innate trait

  • - Self-awareness supports sustainable personal growth

  • - Emotions should inform, not control, your actions

  • - Compassionate self-talk fosters long-term accountability

  • - Productivity stems from systems, not hustle

  • - Quality of life is the ultimate success metric

  • - Strong relationships are foundational to fulfillment

  • Show more...
    3 months ago
    55 minutes 52 seconds

    Persistence Playbook
    #131- How Entrepreneurs Can Accomplish More by Choosing Joy With Jessica Janzen

    Today we sit down with Jessica Janzen, bestselling author, mindset coach, and keynote speaker. Jessica is a high-energy resilience expert who knows how to bring both laughter and wisdom into leadership, even when life feels messy.


    In this episode, Jessica breaks down what it really means to choose joy, not as a mood or mantra, but as a practical strategy for getting clear, staying grounded, and actually accomplishing more. This conversation navigates grief and internal resistance, while exploring how to lead with purpose and create space for help. Jessica pulls back the curtain on how joy can sharpen your focus and transform how you move through the world through honest reflections.


    If your leadership feels more like chaos than clarity, this episode offers a grounded roadmap showing you how to confront imposter syndrome by naming your negative thoughts and creating distance from the noise.

    Takeaways

    • People are inherently willing to help if asked.
    • Recognizing and naming your thoughts can create distance from negativity..
    • Resistance often indicates where breakthroughs can occur.
    • Accountability partners can help overcome challenges.
    • Service to others can enhance personal joy.
    Show more...
    3 months ago
    41 minutes 56 seconds

    Persistence Playbook
    #130-10 Ways to Optimize Your To-Do List

    If you’ve been following Persistence Playbook for a while, you know one thing about Brett McDermott: he doesn’t just like a good list; he believes in mastering it.

    This week, we’re getting intentional about something that’s easy to overcomplicate: your to-do list. And no, this isn’t about color-coding sticky notes or downloading another app. This is about how entrepreneurs can quietly rewire the way they move through their day with clarity, momentum, and more energy left over than they started with.


    In just 10 shifts, Brett breaks down how to:

    – Structure your daily tasks around how you work best (not just when),

    – Build a system that doesn’t just track your output, but actually improves it,

    – And rethink the way you approach delegation, decision fatigue, and daily wins.


    ...And yes, some of these you’ve probably tried before but not like this. Because it’s not just about doing more. It’s about doing what matters, when it matters most and knowing exactly when to call it a win. So if your to-do list is starting to feel more like a guilt trip than a strategy, this one’s for you.

    Show more...
    3 months ago
    6 minutes 38 seconds

    Persistence Playbook
    #129-[REVISITED] The Truth About Growth, Mental Health, and Showing Up With Kaylor Betts

    In this episode, we revisit the deeper layers of what it truly means to grow, succeed, and live with intention. Joining us is Kaylor Betts, business and life coach, and host of Awake and Winning for a conversation that pulls no punches.

    With candor, clarity, and a few unexpected laughs, Kaylor explores the unspoken tensions between ambition and mental health, achievement and fulfillment, and what it really takes to show up whole in a world obsessed with hustle.

    This isn’t a highlight reel. It’s a return to the uncomfortable truths, the mindset shifts, and the grounded practices that move you forward when motivation fades.

    Whether you're building a business, rebuilding your mindset, or just trying to find peace in the process, this episode holds a mirror to the moments that matter.


    What you’ll walk away with:

    • Why mental wealth isn’t about perfection, but presence

    • How fulfillment trumps happiness in the long game

    • The power of doing delayed-return activities that pay off later

    • Why resilience is built in the unsexy, hard things

    • The difference between attention and impact

    • Why time, not money, is the real luxury

    • And how consistent, imperfect action can still change everything

    Show more...
    4 months ago
    58 minutes 13 seconds

    Persistence Playbook
    #128- 10 Ways Entrepreneurs Can Organize Their Day for Peak Productivity

    If you’ve been listening to Persistence Playbook for a while, you already know Brett loves a good list; especially when it’s packed with tactics proven to work by today’s top performers.

    In this solo episode, he breaks down 10 essential strategies entrepreneurs can use to organize their day for sharper focus, smarter time management, and sustainable productivity. From managing your energy(not just your time) to creating routines that close your day with intention

    With less than six months left in the year to move the needle on your entrepreneurial goals, this episode is stacked with practical strategies to boost your productivity, reclaim your mornings, and move through your day with intention, not overwhelm.


    Takeaways

    -Plan tomorrow, tonight to start your day organized.

    -A non-negotiable morning routine anchors your day.

    -Identify your number one task to prioritize effectively.

    -Batch communication to reduce cognitive fatigue.

    -Align tasks with your energy levels for optimal performance.

    -Create a clear shutdown routine to reflect on your day.

    Show more...
    4 months ago
    15 minutes 53 seconds

    Persistence Playbook
    #127-How Entrepreneurs Can Break Through Their 6 Figure Ceiling With Kate Perkovic

    Today we sit down with Kate Perkovic, 7-figure founder, CEO of KLMP Consulting, and a force behind empowering women into high-power earners. From her early days as a server to leading a thriving consulting business, Kate walks us through the mindset shifts, routines, and retention-first strategies that redefined her path to success.


    In this episode, she unpacks the frameworks that helped her scale, the role of productivity in sustaining momentum, and the power of masterminds in fast-tracking growth. We also explore how she balances masculine drive with feminine intuition to lead with clarity, and why overcoming resistance is often the first step to building something lasting.


    This is a conversation about more than business, it’s about becoming. Whether you’re navigating entrepreneurship, refining your routine, or focused on scaling sustainably, there’s something here to shift the way you move.

    Takeaways

    • Mindset and identity are key factors in business success.
    • Retention of clients is more important than acquiring new ones.
    • Balancing masculine and feminine principles is essential for business growth.
    • A structured framework is necessary for scaling to seven figures.
    • Creating intentional moments for rest is important for sustainability.
    • Teaching others is a key to scalability in business.

    Show more...
    4 months ago
    48 minutes 49 seconds

    Persistence Playbook
    #126- Thoughts are Things: How to use Your Inner Dialogue as a Tool to Get What You Want Out of Life

    Today we sit down with Colin Henderson, mindset speaker, author, and host of the Master Your Mindset podcast. In this episode, Colin and I dive into the powerful concept that thoughts are things; how our inner dialogue shapes reality and how we can intentionally cultivate it to get what we want. 

    We explore the role of vulnerability among men and unpack practical strategies for mental conditioning, self-talk, visualization, gratitude, and all things designed to foster persistence and personal growth.


    Colin shares how intentional practices keep him sharp, resilient, and high-performing, then walks us through his daily routine and Savage 10 approach to physical and mental health.

    Takeaways:

    – Gratitude is a powerful tool for fostering positivity and resilience

    – Daily routines can enhance productivity and mental clarity

    – Intentional practices lead to personal growth and fulfillment

    – Building a support system is crucial for persistence

    Show more...
    4 months ago
    45 minutes 28 seconds

    Persistence Playbook
    Welcome to Persistence Playbook—the podcast that helps entrepreneurs defeat resistance and do the important work they were meant to do. Most people don’t struggle with what to do—they struggle with doing it consistently. Adversity, self-doubt, and internal resistance stop more dreams than lack of knowledge ever will. So how do the world’s most relentless achievers keep showing up, day after day? What thoughts, habits, and communities fuel their unstoppable momentum? We’re here to find out—so you can push past resistance and take action no matter what.