Welcome to Episode 299!

Say congrats HERE : ) 

In this damn good conversation, acclaimed food writer and chef Michael Ruhlman joins me to explore the beauty of ratios in cooking and living a creative life.

With over 30 books to his name, Michael shares insights on creativity, curiosity, and the joy of continuous learning.

Don't Miss: • How understanding ratios can liberate you in the kitchen and life • The importance of being present and engaged in a world of constant information • Why Michael believes we don't have books inside us waiting to come out • The value of writing about what you don't know to fuel learning and growth • Michael's thoughts on the role of alcohol in enhancing life (when used responsibly) • His recommendations for must-watch food films

Visit the new & improved damngoodconversations.com

Key Takeaways: • Ratios reveal the essential elements of cooking, allowing for improvisation and creativity • Curiosity and engagement are crucial for personal growth and creative output • Writing generates material itself - it's not about transcribing pre-existing thoughts • Confidence comes from doing things you're afraid of and shattering self-doubt • The importance of sharp knives, proper cutting boards, and understanding salt in cooking

Michael encourages all of us to: • Stay curious and engaged with the world around us • Write to learn and discover, not just to share what we already know • Find joy in the small pleasures of life, like a well-crafted cocktail or a good conversation • Continuously improve our skills, even if it's just 1% better each day

Ready to dive deeper into the world of food writing and culinary exploration? Subscribe to Michael's Newsletter at ruhlman.substack.com for twice-monthly newsletters packed with insights, recommendations, and more.

As always, thanks for listening to this episode of One Percent Better!

--Joe

PS: Our next milestone, Episode 300, is just around the corner! Stay tuned for something special.

Have you visited DamnGoodConversations.com lately? I have updated it to feature the work of some of my amazing recent clients.  Might you be next? 

In this powerful episode of the One Percent Better, I reunite with Brian Kight, a return guest from Episode 17 in October 2017, for a deep dive into the fascinating world of confidence. Our conversation explores the origins, myths, and practical strategies for cultivating unshakeable confidence in our lives.

I would love to hear your feedback on this episode HERE

Key Takeaways According to BK:  • Confidence is a belief, not a fact. It's about projecting into the future and envisioning positive outcomes. • We are all "delusional" to some degree, as we constantly make assumptions and projections about the future that may or may not be grounded in reality. • Courage is not the absence of fear, but the willingness to act in spite of it. Confidence and courage are two distinct yet interconnected qualities. • Confidence is built on five core beliefs: knowing what to do, knowing how to do it, believing in our capability, expecting good results, and trusting that we'll be okay even if things don't go as planned. • Doubt arises when we lack belief in one or more of these five areas. By pinpointing the source of our doubt, we can take targeted action to build confidence. • Confidence is not about perfection or guaranteed success; it's about the quality of our effort and our willingness to embrace uncertainty. • As educators and mentors, we can help students build confidence by influencing their self-beliefs and providing a supportive, empowering environment.

No Secret Dreams with Ryan Lavarnway

Powerful Quotes: (share one of these on Social Media) 

"Confidence is a belief. It's always projecting into the future, and as long as we're projecting something into the future, the reality is we don't actually know." - Brian Kight

"Courage can only exist in the absence of confidence. If confidence is full, courage has no role, because courage's entire role is to fill the gap where we feel fear with something stronger than the fear." - Brian Kight

"Once we detach confidence and doubt from reality, and we stop asking it to be truth, and we start recognizing it for what it is – it's just a belief – we recognize that people are already believing in all kinds of things from a doubt perspective that are untrue, all kinds of things for a confidence perspective that are untrue, but those beliefs have consequences in the actions that they drive within us." - Brian Kight

Practical Applications: • Audit your own confidence regularly. Identify areas where you feel doubt and use the five belief framework to pinpoint the source of that doubt. • Embrace discomfort and take action in the face of fear. Confidence is built through courageous action, not just positive thinking. • As a leader or mentor, help others identify and change limiting self-beliefs. Create an environment that nurtures confidence and encourages people to step outside their comfort zones. • Remember that confidence is a choice, not a perfect reflection of reality. Choose to believe in yourself and your abilities, even in the face of uncertainty.

This thought-provoking conversation with Brian Kight challenges us to rethink our assumptions about confidence and offers a powerful framework for cultivating unshakeable self-belief in our lives and the lives of those we lead and mentor.

As always, thanks for listening to Episode 298!

--Joe 

PS: Here's the best link to text to a friend Handpicked Episodes

Head HERE to book a free call about how I can help you have unforgettable conversations. 

In this episode, we explore the concept of the ".5 question" – a personalized, rapport-building opener that sets the stage for a memorable, engaging conversation. 

I dive into real-life examples from One Percent Better breaking down the key characteristics that make these questions so effective:

- Personalization: Referencing specific details unique to the person you're speaking with - Variety: Covering a range of topics, from personal to professional interests - Engagement: Inviting your conversation partner to share their perspective - Rapport-building: Finding common ground and shared experiences - Specificity: Demonstrating genuine interest and thorough research - Lightheartedness: Setting a friendly, informal tone with playful or humorous details  - Storytelling potential: Referencing specific moments that hint at larger stories or experiences

I also share tips for crafting your own unforgettable .5 questions, whether you're a podcaster, networker, or simply looking to have more meaningful conversations. 

Whether you're looking to uplevel your interview skills, build authentic relationships, or create more engaging conversations, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Tune in and discover how one small question can make a big impact.

Want to become a master at crafting .5 questions and having damn good conversations?  - Sign up for a 1:1 coaching session where we'll work together to sharpen your skills and tailor the technique to your unique goals. - Bring this engaging workshop to your organization to help your team level up their communication and build stronger relationships with each other and your clients.

Head HERE to learn more about how to get started on your journey to 1% better conversations!

As always, thanks for listening to Episode 297!

--Joe 

PS: Here are some links mentioned in today's episode:

James Clear & Me

Seth Godin & Me

Kai Correa & Me

Garrett & Colin Unsold Mindset

3 High-impact Links

•Check out April's Jewelry at http://elizabethlassing.com/

•Interested in Hosting a Flip the Script Episode?  Head HERE and tell me why

• HERE is the best link to share the podcast

Today I give the microphone to my former 8th grade student turned lifelong friend and mentee, April. I hope this conversation shows the profound impact a teacher can have on a student's life through genuine human connection, being present, and leaving the door open. 

It also demonstrates how vital ONE student can be in sustaining a educator's career. 

Key Moments: • April shares the story of how Joe's presence and open door policy as her 8th grade teacher changed the trajectory of her life when she was feeling lost and disconnected • We discuss the importance of treating students as human beings, not just kids of a certain age, in order to truly connect with them  • We explore how passion and love for an activity, like making art as a child, can fade as people get older and more self-conscious, and what educators can do to keep that spark alive • April opens up about overcoming depression by choosing to look for beauty in life each day, even amidst challenges and setbacks  • I share an impactful classroom exercise about intentionally looking for something beautiful or ugly, and finding whatever you look for • We explore the paradox many teachers face - wanting to profoundly impact every student, while accepting that not every student will overtly demonstrate that impact • April offers the insight that teachers can open the door for connection and impact, without pressuring the student to walk through it

Powerful Quotes: "When you're present with people, it doesn't matter how old they are or really what their backgrounds are. If you are one human being to another human being, and you are open to that, and you're open to life, it is incredible what is going to come into your life." - April

"Leaving the door open - that's what you did with me. You didn't try so hard. You just said the door is open for you. And I was the one who took the initiative to come back and talk to you." - April  

"If I can give myself the self-talk and the mindset to leave the door open...I'm going to leave the door open with no pressure for you to walk in through it." - Joe Ferraro

This heartfelt conversation is for anyone who wants to have a positive impact on others. It's a reminder of the power of human connection and the ripple effects that can occur when we choose to be present and leave the door open.

As always, thanks for listening to Episode 296!

--Joe 

PS: Check out the entire podcast catalog HERE

The 2nd place finisher for this week's episode title was:

Getting Cut 26 Times: How Ryan Lavarnway Refused to Quit on His MLB Dream 

That should give you an idea of how powerful this episode is. Imagine what you can learn about Mindset, Language, & Behavior from today's Damn Good Conversation

I would hit play right now if I were you, but if you are the kind of person who craves details, here is a ton more:

Email me [email protected] if I can be of help

Former MLB player Ryan Lavarnway joins me to share powerful lessons on chasing big dreams, overcoming obstacles, and finding success through relentless perseverance. Ryan's journey holds wisdom for anyone looking to achieve more in sports, business and life.

Don't Miss: • Ryan's experience of playing in the Big Leagues and how it exceeded even his highest expectations • The power of setting audacious goals and not being afraid to lean into "delusion" • Why you need to get really good at not quitting on the things you believe in • The key difference between "great" and "elite" is ________________.  • How leaders like Terry Francona and Buck Showalter get the best out of their people • Ryan's mission to make an impact by encouraging others to pursue their dreams

Ryan encourages all of us to:  • Share your dreams with everyone - you never know what opportunities will arise • Realize the best leaders support their people no matter what • Use failure and obstacles as opportunities to learn and get better

Ready to dare greatly and pursue your dreams with no excuses? Follow Ryan's journey on his website (ryanlavarnway.com), LinkedIn and Instagram (@rlavarnway). And if this conversation resonated with you, share it with a friend or teammate who could use some inspiration to aim higher.  

As always, thanks for listening to Episode 295!

--Joe

PS: Here's the best link to share your secret dream with me SHARE HERE

Quick Links Not To Be Missed:

Join the No Spam Mailing List

Coaching Opportunites 

Josh Spector's Spectacular Newsletter

Buy the Macho Man Book

Seth Godin's 1st Appearance on One Percent Better

Josh Spector's Episode

On this episode, I share:

- A personal story of cobbling together a powerful poetry podcast for my high school seniors in under 3 hours - Reflections on how to measure the impact of creative work, even if audience reactions are unclear - Liberating mindset shifts around ideal audience size from guests like Seth Godin, Josh Spector and Jon Finkel - Practical tips on building an audience that truly looks forward to your work

Key Takeaways: - You don't need a huge audience to make an impact. Focus on delighting a small group first. - Reframe creative projects as worthwhile even if no one sees them, for the value they provide you. - Aim for 10 people who would "cross the street" for your work as a starting point. - Pick one "keyboard" - newsletter, podcast, blog - and consistently create value for a specific audience.

I also mention a special offer to review your work and provide feedback. Hit reply to any email to take me up on it.

If you've been holding back on a creative project because you don't have an audience yet, this episode will inspire you to start anyway. Remember, it's a privilege to share your gifts with the world, regardless of audience size.

Don't forget to check out these links:

Join the No Spam Mailing List

Coaching Opportunites 

Thanks for listening to Episode 294!

--Joe

P.S. This LINK is the best way to share the podcast with a new listener

Quick Links: 

Join the Mailing List

Coaching Opportunities

Start Here: Organized Back Episodes

My guest today is Topaz Adizes, founder of The Skin Deep. Together we dive into the art of making space, asking deep questions and creating intimate conversations. Drawing from Topaz's experience facilitating question-based games and my background in education, we explore the power of well-constructed questions and mutual respect in fostering deeper connections.

Key Takeaways: Creating Space for Connection: Topaz emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and open space for meaningful conversations to unfold. He highlights how simple games or structured question sets, like those found in his book 12 Questions for Love can provide the necessary framework for people to open up and share authentically.    Sequence and Timing: The sequence and timing of questions play a crucial role in the depth of conversation. We discuss the architecture behind the sequence of questions in his book, designed to gradually build trust, explore conflicts, express gratitude, and reflect on deeper emotions.

Navigating Discomfort: Topaz and I acknowledge the discomfort that may arise from asking and answering probing questions. We get into the value of leaning into discomfort as a means of growth and strengthening relationships.

Crafting Questions: You know my love of asking questions. Topaz shares his insights into the process of crafting them, drawing from his experience in facilitating thousands of intimate conversations. He highlights the importance of intentionality and sometimes making grammatically incorrect questions to encourage authentic responses.

Creating Synergy: I reflect on my own experience with creating question-based games in my Public Speaking class, highlighting how such activities can build trust and break patterns, leading to unexpected moments of connection.

1% Better Takeawy: Asking meaningful questions and creating space for authentic dialogue can lead to deeper connections and insights. By understanding the art of asking questions and navigating discomfort, individuals can foster stronger relationships and personal growth.

Don't forget:

Join the Mailing List

Coaching Opportunities

Start Here: Organized Back Episodes

As always, thanks for listening to Episode 293!

--Joe 

MY OFFER

Since July 1, 2017 I've promised you actionable ways for all of us to get 1% better in our: Mindset | Language | Behavior 

I've shared inspiring stories, practical advice, and damn good conversations with some of the most successful people in the world. 

Today is no exception. 

Quick Links: 

Join the Mailing List

Coaching Opportunities

Episode: Don't Confuse Price & Value

Onto today's episode:  

We've all felt that fear of "being too salesy" when trying to promote our products or services. But what if the key to confident, authentic selling was right under our noses the whole time...in the form of neighborhood Girl Scout cookie sellers? 

On this episode, I share stupefying stories of watching colleagues casually sell Girl Scout cookies for their daughters in shockingly effective yet refreshingly simple ways. From group text threads to order forms on the break room table, their straightforward "Here's an awesome product, who wants it?" approach opened my eyes to sales without desperation.

Listen in & you'll learn powerful mindset shifts like:

Proudly Offering Value When you truly believe your offering helps people, you shouldn't hesitate to share it. 

Simplicity Trumps Complexity Part of the genius was making it stupidly easy to purchase with low-pressure tactics .

Detaching from Outcomes The sellers never begged, guilt-tripped, or took the "no's" personally because they had zero attachment to any single sale. 

By the end, you'll be inspired to confidently sell like a Scout - authentic enthusiasm, smooth simplicity, and a liberated, resentment-free attitude towards anyone who passes. It's not pushiness, it's serving people value you believe in.

I also share a special offer tailored just for you on mastering question-asking skills and 1-on-1 coaching to help you communicate at your highest level.

If you've been holding back on selling your gifts to the world, this fun, analogous episode will have you selling with unshakable Girl Scout cookie confidence!

Don't forget to check out these links: 

Join the Mailing List

Coaching Opportunities

Start Here: Organized Back Episodes

Thanks for listening to Episode 292...8 away from 300!

--Joe 

PS: If you've made it this far, you'll love the best two sales profesionals I know: Colin & Garrett

Since July 1, 2017 I've promised you actionable ways for all of us to get 1% better in our: Mindset | Language | Behavior 

I've shared inspiring stories, practical advice, and damn good conversations with some of the most successful people in the world. 

Today is no exception. 

Quick Links: 

Join the Mailing List

Coaching Opportunities

Start Here: Organized Back Episodes

Onto today's conversation. 

In case you've missed it . . .The Savannah Bananas emerged in October 2015 with a mission to inject fun back into baseball and inspire fans everywhere. 

Following the departure of minor league baseball after a 90-year stint in the city, the challenge of generating excitement for a collegiate summer team proved daunting. Everything transformed on February 25, 2016, with the announcement of the team's quirky moniker, the Savannah Bananas. Despite local skepticism and criticism, the name garnered widespread attention, earning accolades as logo of the year from national media outlets. Since their inaugural season, the Bananas have consistently sold out every game, exceeding 200 consecutive sellouts. Transitioning from the Coastal Plain League to playing Banana Ball year-round in 2022, the Bananas now field two independent professional teams, the Savannah Bananas and The Party Animals. With a focus on fast-paced, entertaining play, the Bananas have attracted former MLB stars like Jonny Gomes and Bill Lee, as well as local standout Josh Reddick, cementing their status as a beloved and innovative force in baseball entertainment.

Today's guest is the manager of The Savannah Bananas, Tyler Gillum.

He shares actionable ways to improve, including . . .

Mindset Telescope Goals and Microscope Habits. Tyler discusses the team's ambitious goal of reaching one billion fans, emphasizing the importance of setting massive goals while focusing on daily habits to achieve them, showcasing the Savannah Bananas' relentless pursuit of growth.

Language Authenticity. Tyler emphasizes the importance of authenticity and fun in the Savannah Bananas' approach to engaging fans, sharing stories of unconventional promotional ideas and community impact initiatives.

He also says "Boom, Baby!" often : ) 

Behavior Crazy Ideas and Promotional Stunts. We discuss stories of the Savannah Bananas' unconventional promotional ideas, including potential parachuting stunts, playing shirts against skins, and creating memorable experiences for fans.

Banana Land at Sea. Tyler unveils the ambitious plan of hosting 3000 Banana fans on a cruise to the Bahamas, demonstrating the team's commitment to pushing boundaries and creating unforgettable experiences for supporters.

Community Engagement. Tyler reflects on the team's impact on fans, sharing heartwarming stories of children aspiring to be Savannah Bananas players and the team's efforts to give back to the community through initiatives like donating baseball gloves.

Practical Advice Relentless Pursuit of Growth. Tyler provides practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders, highlighting the importance of setting ambitious goals, staying true to oneself, and focusing on daily habits to achieve long-term success.

Inspiring Stories  Impact and Community Engagement. Tyler shares heartwarming stories of children aspiring to be Savannah Bananas players and the team's efforts to give back to the community through initiatives like donating baseball gloves, showcasing the team's commitment to making a positive impact beyond the baseball field.

This episode offers an inspiring look into the world of the Savannah Bananas and their fearless pursuit of unconventional ideas and ambitious goals. Tyler's passion for creating memorable experiences for fans shines through, leaving listeners inspired to dream big and challenge the status quo.

Thank you so much for being a part of this community for 291 episodes!

Don't forget to check out these links: 

Join the Mailing List

Coaching Opportunities

Start Here: Organized Back Episodes

Thanks for listening!

--Joe 

You are not Wayne Newton. I am not Wayne Newton. Your conversation partner is not Wayne Newton. Today on the podcast, I tell you why all that matters.

After you listen, if you find yourself craving more, head HERE to inquire about limited 1:1 coaching opportunites. 

TL/DR

Ask questions like a journalist hunting for pull quotes. At 81 years young, Wayne has more media training than a politician embroiled in an international scandal. That's why when he got two horrendous questions lobbed at him this week, he took the questions and turned them from coal to gold.  Most people don't do this automatically. Most people accept mediocre questions and give boring, mediocre answers. When we are locked in conversations that matter, our questions need to do more. Listen as Wayne takes close-ended, clunky questions and tells a micro story, adds depth and emotion, and leaves us with a lasting feeling.  Larry in your department won't do that when faced with a dud of a question. Unless you use this short cut: Ask questions like a journalist hunting for pull quotes. You can't print: "there's no question about that." --Wayne Newton You can't print: "Yes." You CAN print provocative, fun, emotional, high-energy quotes that you only got because you asked a damn good question. The next time you are in a conversation, think like a journalist. Instead of: "Do you feel like you've kinda become, to some degree, the institutional memory of Las Vegas?" Ask: "You've become the institutional memory of Las Vegas. What's your reaction when you hear that?" Instead of: "Do you feel like Las Vegas is being treated like a real American city in a way that maybe it wasn't always in people's minds?" Ask: "How has Las Vegas changed since 1957 when you arrived?" I promise you will find gold, even when it's not Wayne Newton you are talking to.

Remember to connect HERE if you are on the hunt for damn good conversations.

In the meantime, thanks for listening to Episode 290!

--Joe 

I would love to get to know you better. Please click on the link below to answer a few short questions that will help me make the show even better? 

Help Me Make the Show 1% Better 🙏

Today I present my conversation with Justin Moore.

Justin is a Sponsorship Coach & the founder of Creator Wizard, a community that teaches you how to find & negotiate your dream brand partnerships. 

Today we discuss:

• The number 1 mistake creators make while hoping to land sponsors
• An easy-to-follow script to approach your dream brand partner
• The myth of download numbers holding back sponsorships 
• What to do if you are just getting started as a creator 

and much more. 

One more thing . . . If you are a founder, entrepreneur, author, or presenter looking to crush your next opportunity in front of a microphone, Let's Have a Conversation.

As always, thank you for listening to Episode 289!

--Joe