The Sonya Looney Show

What does it really mean to live a rich life? Today’s guest, Dr. Shige Oishi, challenges what we usually think of happiness and meaning by introducing us to the concept of a "psychologically rich life."A psychologically rich life is about collecting diverse and transformative experiences that shift our perspectives and expand our minds, rather than just chasing positive feelings or a singular sense of purpose. Social psychologist and author of the new book, Life in Three Dimensions, Dr. Oishi shares why seeking variety, spontaneity, and novel experiences can profoundly enhance our growth, resilience, and overall fulfillment.You'll learn:- Why chasing happiness alone can set you up for disappointment—and what to pursue instead.- How psychological richness enhances well-being through diversity and depth of experience.- Practical strategies to incorporate more richness into your daily life and why spontaneity is key- The role fiction and storytelling play in expanding your emotional and cognitive

Today, I’m taking you along a trail ride, not just through the physical landscapes but through the terrain of our minds. It’s about confronting and managing the self-criticism that often accompanies our high expectations, especially when we push towards big goals in high-performance settings.In this episode, I’ll share how I transform self-criticism into a tool for growth and resilience. Whether you’re riding a bike, running a trail, or pursuing any challenge, this meditation is designed to help you maintain focus and foster a positive mindset.Key Takeaways:- Understanding self-criticism- Cultivating acceptance- Strategies for boosting optimism- How to embrace mental flexibilityLINKS- Listen to another moving meditation- Learn about the science of meditation with Dave Vago- Feel skeptical about meditation? Check out this interview with Jeff Warren--------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

Can you chase high performance and well-being without burning out? In this special crossover episode of Grow the Good, I'm resharing a super relevant conversation with Dr. Jon Beale and Nick Holton from the FlourishFM podcast.On the other side of the mic, I open up about my journey as a world champion athlete, speaker, and coach, and how this pursuit of meaningful accomplishment has led me to reimagine success. We get into what it means to matter, why outcome-focused goals can drain us, and how intentional imbalance (yes, imbalance!) can actually help us thrive.You’ll hear about:- Why “intentional imbalance” can be a healthier alternative to chasing perfect balance- The difference between personal success and meaningful accomplishment- How the concept of “mattering” fuels motivation, connection, and sustainable performance- Practical tools to align goals with values and avoid burnoutOriginally aired on FlourishFM, this is a conversation I couldn’t wait to share again.--------------The Grow the Good Podca

Are your “exercise rules” helping or hindering your joy, vitality, and overall well-being? I’m your host Sonya Looney, and in this transformative episode of Grow the Good, I sat down with renowned movement experts Katy Bowman and Diana Hill to challenge traditional fitness narratives. Together, we explore how rigid identities around exercise can limit our potential and discuss practical strategies for creating a more flexible, joyful, and values-driven relationship with movement.You’ll gain powerful insights into the psychological and biomechanical aspects of exercise, learn how to redefine what counts as movement, and explore how to break free from compulsive fitness habits. This conversation will inspire you to integrate playful, practical, and nourishing forms of exercise into everyday life, enhancing both your mental health and physical vitality.Here’s what you’ll learn:Why rigid exercise rules and athlete identities can become restrictiveHow redefining movement to align with personal values increases joy

Lately, I've been grappling with motivation—questioning what to share, how to show up authentically, and the pressure to always be productive. Let's dive into the emotional and physical toll of constantly hurrying, the societal glorification of busyness, and the importance of setting boundaries to protect our well-being.Together, we'll reflect on:Recognizing the signs and sensations of rushingUnderstanding the costs of over-scheduling and overcommittingEmbracing the power of subtraction to create spaceImplementing simple pauses to reconnect with the present momentThis is an invitation to breathe, to be present, and to consider how we might navigate life with more intention and less haste. Whether you're moving through the forest or sitting quietly at home, I hope this episode offers you a moment of clarity and calm.As always, thank you for being part of this community. Your presence and feedback mean the world to me. Let's continue to grow the good together.--------------The Grow the

Ever wonder why feeling valued and significant at work (and in life!) matters so much? This week, I'm thrilled to welcome researcher, author, and purposeful leadership expert Zach Mercurio to Grow the Good. Zach dives deep into the critical concept of mattering—the foundational human need to feel significant, seen, and valued by others.Drawing from his latest book, The Power of Mattering, Zach shares compelling insights on why feeling significant isn't just nice to have; it's essential for our mental health, resilience, and overall performance. We discuss authentic purpose, how digital life impacts meaningful connection, and practical strategies anyone can use to foster mattering in their relationships and workplaces.Key takeaways include:Why authentic purpose must benefit others, not just ourselves.How feeling insignificant contributes to loneliness and decreased performance.Practical strategies for creating meaningful interactions that communicate value.Why care and hurry can't coexist—a

We all crave connection—but in the busy shuffle of adult life, it’s easy to lose touch with the very relationships that keep us grounded. In this solo episode of Grow the Good, I’m diving into the topic of friendship and why it’s essential—not just for happiness, but for our health and longevity.I explore why making new friends gets harder after 30, the different types of friendships we need, and the surprising power of spontaneity when it comes to feeling close and supported. I’ll also share the one thing I’ve started doing that has completely transformed how connected I feel day to day.This episode is a reminder that connection isn’t just a feel-good concept—it’s a pillar of well-being. Whether you’re craving more meaningful relationships or simply want to bring more playfulness into your life, this one’s for you.Key Takeaways:Connection is foundational to a fulfilling lifeQuality of friendships > quantityMaking friends gets harder with age—but it’s possibleSpontaneity and hearing someone’s voice deepen

How do you truly unlock your potential—not just in sport, but in life?In this episode of Grow the Good, I’m joined by Pete Kadushi, performance psychologist, educator, and Manager of Learning and Development for the Chicago Blackhawks. Pete brings over 15 years of experience working with elite performers in professional sports, collegiate athletics, and the military.We talk about why building a mindful relationship with your body is crucial for resilience, flow, and sustained high performance. Pete shares powerful insights on nervous system regulation, the sweet spot between challenge and relaxation, and how to translate low-stakes practice into high-stakes performance.We also explore the personal side of performance psychology—how these practices show up not just at start lines and game days, but in everyday life, from raising your hand in a classroom to handling life’s unexpected challenges with more grace.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, disconnected from your body, or struggled to bring your best under pr

Today's episode features an episode of the Meaningful Work Matters podcast hosted by Andrew Soren. Beyond Perfect Performance: Lessons from Sonya LooneyIn this episode of Meaningful Work Matters, host Andrew Soren explores the intricate relationship between perfectionism and meaningful work with Sonya Looney, a unique voice at the intersection of elite performance and well-being. As a World Champion mountain biker with two decades of endurance racing experience, NBC-HWC-certified mental performance coach, and researcher, Looney brings both scientific rigor and lived experience to the conversation. Her unique combination of athletic achievement, coaching expertise, and interdisciplinary education allows her to offer distinctive insights into resilience, healthy striving, and the complex dynamics of perfectionism in high-performance settings.--------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

Have you ever found yourself overcome by emotions—whether excitement at a race start, stress at work, or overwhelm from everyday life? In this Mindfulness in Action session, I explore practical strategies to regulate your emotions, inspired by Ethan Kross’s insightful new book, Shift. I'll share powerful tools, including mindfulness techniques focused on sound, cognitive strategies, and personal examples from my life as an athlete and mom.Tune in to learn how to effectively recognize, manage, and harness your emotions, even during fatigue or stress, to enhance resilience and boost performance.--------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

What does it mean to truly find meaning at work? This week, I'm thrilled to chat with my friends and positive psychology experts, Tamara Myles and Wes Adams. Their new book, Meaningful Work, offers powerful insights and practical strategies on how we can transform our careers and workplaces using their three-part framework: Community, Contribution, and Challenge.In this conversation, we dive into how solo entrepreneurs, leaders, and teams can build a deeper sense of purpose, connection, and growth at work. We explore topics like aligning organizational values with actions, avoiding burnout by balancing autonomy with support, and how meaningful work can create both happier people and stronger business outcomes.This episode couldn't be more timely—whether you're leading a team, running your own business, or navigating your next career move, you'll come away with actionable ideas to elevate your experience at work.Key takeaways:How to intentionally cultivate community, contribution, and chall

How do you respond to rejection, uncertainty, or feeling like an outsider? Today's guest, Capella Fahoome, filmmaker and organizational development expert, believes these moments are opportunities for incredible growth. Capella shares her inspiring journey from psychology to award-winning filmmaking, highlighting the essential role of relationships, vulnerability, and authenticity.We discuss her insights on leadership, the transformative power of storytelling, and her upcoming book, "The Outsider’s Guide to Filmmaking." This episode will remind you to embrace your uniqueness, foster meaningful connections, and celebrate the power of your personal narrative.Here’s what you’ll learn:Take action in uncertainty: Don't wait for the "perfect" moment—small, consistent steps move you forward.Prioritize relationships: Empathy, authenticity, and gratitude are the heart of effective leadership and growth.Grow through rejection: Each setback is a chance to learn, adapt, and build resilience

What does it really take to thrive in today’s world? Dive into this compelling conversation with Steve Magness, renowned performance coach and author of 'Win the Inside Game.' In this episode of Grow the Good, Steve and I unpack the essentials of maintaining a balanced identity amidst life’s challenges. We delve into his innovative framework for success—focusing on clarity, support, and belonging—and explore how these elements contribute to our overall well-being and performance.Whether you're a parent, professional, or passionate pursuer of dreams, Steve’s insights on avoiding the pitfalls of a single-minded identity and the importance of diversifying interests are invaluable. Learn how to create your own 'luck' through broadened horizons and embrace the power of play and creativity to sustain motivation and fulfillment.Here's what we'll learn:- The challenges of maintaining clarity of identity as one becomes more successful and known for a particular pursuit- The importanc

In this reflective moving meditation, I am taking us on a trail ride through the serene greenery post a heavy snowfall, sharing her personal journey towards finding contentment amidst life’s relentless pace. I'm going to talk about the subtle distinction between rumination and reflection, emphasizing the value of embracing the present moment without the pressure of perfection. Let's practice some real strategies for identifying and savoring moments of peace, and learn how true contentment emerges not from relentless striving but through gentle acceptance of the now.Here's what we'll practice:- Contentment Through Acceptance: Understanding that contentment arises from accepting rather than altering our current circumstances.- Distinguishing Feelings: Recognizing the difference between awe and contentment, and identifying what each emotion brings to our experiences.- The Role of Environment: The impact of nature and serene environments in fostering a sense of peace and grounding.- Mindful Pr

We've all been there - stuck in a thought loop about an experience, interaction, or feeling. But how do we break the cycle? Today, I'll explore the six common triggers of rumination, from social interactions to deep-seated resentments, and learn how to differentiate between harmful rumination and productive reflection. I'll guide you through effective mindfulness and cognitive techniques designed to break this cycle, enhance self-compassion, and move from passive dwelling to proactive action.Interested in learning more? I'm hosting a three-week workshop, "The Mental Reset," geared to help you implement these strategies and achieve meaningful personal growth. Whether you're rehashing past conversations or fixating on uncontrollable outcomes, there is a clear roadmap to regain control of your thoughts and steer them towards a more positive and productive mindset.Join me at SonyaLooney.com/workshops and start your journey toward mental clarity and resilience today.Join the expe

Mindfulness expert George Mumford has traversed a remarkable path from injured athlete to mind-body guru and has inspired countless individuals, from NBA legends like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant to corporate leaders and Olympic athletes. In this episode, George shares invaluable insights on achieving peak mental states through “no mind,” embracing life’s challenges, and cultivating deep connections.You’ll learn George’s philosophy of focusing beyond personal achievements to embrace a service-oriented approach to mindfulness. Whether you’re striving for personal growth or professional excellence, George’s story and strategies will enlighten your path to resilience, awareness, and true fulfillment. Tune in for an enlightening conversation about turning towards the light of our inner wisdom and potential.--------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

Join me, Sonya Looney, in our first moving meditation of 2025. Today's journey is about harnessing patience and acceptance amidst life's unavoidable interruptions. I'm back on the bike after my longest training break, so it feels more relevant than ever to highlight the importance of emotional regulation, the power of naming our emotions, and the crucial role of acceptance in building resilience.As we ride together, I'll guide you through mindfulness practices to help manage discomfort - both physical and emotional - and reinforce the value of optimism and social support. Whether you're sidelined by illness, facing personal setbacks, or just feeling overwhelmed, this meditation is a reminder to embrace the present, accept your circumstances, and find strength in your experiences.Here's what we'll do:1. Embrace patience and let go of control.2. Practice acceptance and emotional regulation.3. Zoom out and find broader context.4. Leverage your inner strength.5. Focus on the pre

Are you ready to transform the way you think about success and happiness? This isn’t just about personal achievement; it’s about creating a life filled with purpose, vitality, and meaningful connections. Welcome to 'Grow the Good,' where we explore not just surviving, but truly thriving in every area of life.Formerly the Sonya Looney Show, this podcast is all about leveraging the principles of positive psychology to not just fix what's wrong, but to amplify what's right within us and around us. Today, I'm diving into what 'Grow the Good' stands for, exploring the rich philosophy of meliorism, and why we’re focusing on five foundational pillars: purpose, vitality, resilience, hope, and connection. These pillars are the heartbeat of our personal growth and wellbeing.Here's what you'll learn:- Purpose & Vitality: Emphasizing the importance of living with intention and energizing our everyday lives.- Resilience & Hope: Strategies for overcoming challenges and m

How do your achievements shape your sense of self? In this episode of Grow the Good, I sit down with Ben Walker, an expert in organizational behavior from Victoria University of Wellington, to explore the intricate world of performance-based identities. We discuss how the labels we attach to ourselves shape our sense of self and influence our deeper motivations. Ben offers enlightening perspectives on the risks associated with tying our self-worth too closely to performance and provides actionable strategies for fostering a healthier, more balanced identity. From expanding our social circles to engaging in activities just for the joy of it, learn how to break free from the cycle of constant self-evaluation and thrive in authenticity. Tune in to start transforming how you view success and to nurture a more resilient and genuine version of yourself.Here’s what you’ll learn:Complexity of Identities: Performance-based identities involve how we see ourselves and the underlying reasons why achievements are so cruci

As a world champion mountain biker, mental performance coach, and someone deeply passionate about positive psychology, I’ve always believed in focusing on the good that already exists within us and around us. “Grow the Good” isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement towards living authentically and thriving through the pillars of purpose, vitality, resilience, hope, and connection. Why tune into “Grow the Good”?        1.        Purpose: We’ll explore how to align your daily actions with your deepest values and how those actions can make meaningful impacts.        2.        Vitality: I’ll share strategies to boost your energy and well-being, helping you to thrive in all areas of your life.        3.        Resilience: Together, we’ll learn how to bounce back from challenges stronger and smarter, building the mental toughness that true resilience requires.        4.        Hope: You’ll discover how to set goals that matter, find paths to achieve them, and build the confidence to enact positive change.        5.