Paradigm Shifting Books

Happy New Year! In this special episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, hosts Stephen and Britain Covey revisit a foundational principle from their grandfather, Stephen R. Covey, to set the tone for the year: "Life is not about accumulation, it is about contribution." Moving beyond typical New Year's resolutions focused on achievement and acquisition, Stephen and Britain explore why shifting your focus to giving rather than getting is the key to deeper happiness and lasting fulfillment. They unpack the difference between "Primary Greatness" (character, integrity, contribution) and "Secondary Greatness" (titles, fame, fortune), explaining that while pursuing external success is not wrong, building a life on the bedrock of contribution is what makes success meaningful and enduring. Britain shares a powerful personal story from the NFL, highlighting how veteran teammate Brandon Graham consciously fights a culture of transactional relationships by contributing to every new player. This serves as a model for choosing connection over comparison in any environment. Stephen reflects on a recent family experience serving at a local ministry, which recentered him on what truly matters as a parent. Backed by research from Harvard, UCLA, and thinkers like Adam Grant, this conversation is a timely reset for anyone feeling the pressure to constantly achieve and acquire. It is a call to find greater joy in 2026 by focusing on the unseen, noble work of contributing to the people right in front of you. What We Discuss Paradigm Shifting BooksNotable Quotes Resources Paradigm Shifting Books PodcastInstagram YouTubeBritain Covey LinkedInInstagramStephen H. Covey LinkedIn

In this episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, hosts Stephen and Britain Covey explore Disrupt Yourself with the author herself, Whitney Johnson, to discuss the powerful framework for understanding personal growth, career evolution, and why progress often feels uncomfortable before it feels rewarding. Drawing on Clayton Christensen’s theory of disruptive innovation, Whitney applies the same principles used to explain market shifts to individual lives, revealing how meaningful growth requires intentional disruption. Stephen reflects on why this episode is especially timely, inviting listeners to use moments of pause, like the holiday season, to reflect on where they are in their careers and lives. Through Whitney’s explanation of the S-curve of learning, the conversation unpacks why starting something new feels slow and discouraging, why momentum eventually accelerates, and why mastery can quietly become a trap. Growth, they explain, is not linear, it is cyclical. The episode also dives into the seven accelerants that move people up the S-curve, including taking the right risks, embracing constraints, stepping back to grow, and reframing failure as a tool rather than a verdict. Whitney shares deeply personal stories from her time on Wall Street and her decision to disrupt her own career, offering a model for navigating change with courage and clarity. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone feeling stuck, restless, or ready for their next chapter, and for leaders seeking to better understand how growth unfolds in themselves and others. What We Discuss Disrupt YourselfNotable Quotes Resources Paradigm Shifting Books PodcastInstagram YouTubeBook Disrupt Yourself by Whitney JohnsonWhitney Johnson WebsiteInstagramLinkedInBritain Covey LinkedInInstagramStephen H. Covey LinkedIn

In this episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, Stephen and Britain Covey return to the foundational principles behind Michael Bungay Stanier’s bestselling book The Coaching Habit. Building on their previous conversation about The Advice Trap, they unpack why most people jump too quickly into giving answers and how learning to “stay curious longer” transforms leadership, mentoring, and everyday conversations. Stephen walks through the seven core coaching questions that form the backbone of Michael’s work, explaining how these simple prompts help leaders shift from advice givers to effective guides. Britain brings a unique perspective from the world of professional sports, reflecting on what great coaching looks like in high-pressure environments and why the best coaches help players discover insights for themselves. Together, they explore how these seven questions create clarity, empower others, and strengthen relationships, whether in the workplace, on the field, or at home. This episode is a practical, wisdom-packed guide for anyone who wants to influence others in a more meaningful and effective way. What We Discuss Notable Quotes Resources Paradigm Shifting Books PodcastInstagram YouTubeBook The Coaching HabitThe Advice TrapBritain Covey LinkedInInstagramStephen H. Covey LinkedIn

In this episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, hosts Stephen and Britain Covey explore Michael Bungay Stanier’s transformative work, The Advice Trap, a companion to his earlier book, The Coaching Habit. Michael delves into the concept of the “Advice Monster,” explaining how the impulse to offer quick solutions often leads to ineffective problem-solving. Instead, he advocates for staying curious longer to encourage deeper understanding and foster self-sufficiency in others. This approach not only enhances leadership and coaching skills but also improves personal relationships and parenting. Throughout the episode, Michael breaks down the three types of advice monsters: Tell It, Save It, and Control It, and offers practical tips on how to tame them. By shifting the focus from providing answers to asking the right questions, you’ll learn how to empower others to think critically and solve problems on their own. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to improve their coaching, leadership, and communication skills, especially in work environments, parenting, or coaching settings. What We Discuss Notable Quotes Resources Paradigm Shifting Books PodcastInstagram YouTubeBook The Advice Trap by Michael Bungay StanierMichael Bungay Stanier WebsiteLinkedInInstagramBritain Covey LinkedInInstagramStephen H. Covey LinkedIn

In this episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, Stephen and Britain Covey dive into the profound teachings of Viktor Frankl, the legendary Austrian psychiatrist and Holocaust survivor. This episode marks the first in the Legendary Series, where the two highlight timeless authors whose ideas have had a lasting impact. Frankl’s Man’s Search for Meaning serves as the foundation for a deep exploration of how suffering can be endured when individuals find meaning in it. Frankl’s insights are especially relevant in today’s world, as they demonstrate that even in the darkest circumstances, the human spirit has the power to choose its response. He shows that purpose can provide a lifeline through suffering. Whether navigating personal challenges or seeking deeper fulfillment, Frankl’s wisdom offers transformative guidance. This episode explores two of the most impactful paradigms from Frankl’s work, examining the power of personal freedom in choosing one’s response and the essential role that meaning plays in survival. What We Discuss Notable Quotes Resources Paradigm Shifting Books PodcastInstagram YouTubeBook Man’s Search for Meaning by Viktor FranklBritain Covey LinkedInInstagramStephen H. Covey LinkedIn

In this episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, hosts Stephen and Britain Covey dive into the fascinating science behind how habits quietly shape almost half of what we do each day. Joined by The Power of Habit author Charles Duhigg, they explore how cues, routines, and rewards work together to create powerful loops in the brain. By understanding how these loops operate, we can start to take real control over them. Stephen and Britain unpack the “Golden Rule of Habit Change” and explain why relying on willpower alone often doesn’t work. They emphasize that habits can’t simply be erased; they need to be replaced with something new. To bring the science to life, they share personal stories, like Britain’s candy jar detours and how simple tools like phone-locking devices can make a real difference. They also connect Duhigg’s research to the ideas in The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People and Atomic Habits, showing how these three books build on one another. This episode is a practical and inspiring listen for anyone who wants to build better habits, break old patterns, and take back control of their daily routines. What We Discuss Notable Quotes Resources Paradigm Shifting Books PodcastInstagram YouTubeBook The Power of HabitThe 7 Habits of Highly Effective PeopleAtomic Habits Charles Duhigg WebsiteInstagramFacebookLinkedInBritain Covey LinkedInInstagramStephen H. Covey LinkedIn

In this episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, Stephen and Britain Covey explore a core principle from Dr. Craig Manning’s The Fearless Mind, how to turn fear into focus. Drawing from Dr. Manning’s work with Olympians, NBA champions, and top business leaders, they unpack the truth that fear cannot be eliminated but it can be reframed and redirected. Britain opens up about one of the most pressure-filled experiences in sports: returning punts in the NFL before a stadium of 80,000 fans. He shares a deeply personal poem, Your Bravest Self, written as a reminder that courage is not the absence of fear, but the choice to move forward despite it. Together, they discuss how learning to carry fear rather than silence it, can unlock calm, clarity, and confidence. They close with three simple, actionable steps inspired by Dr. Manning’s teachings: breathe, anchor, and act. They explain how these can help anyone, whether you are facing a high-stakes meeting, a big presentation, or a defining moment in life. Tune in to discover how to reframe fear as your invitation to focus and perform at your best when it matters most. What We Discuss The Fearless MindNotable Quotes Resources Paradigm Shifting Books PodcastInstagram YouTubeBooks The Fearless MindThe Man in the Arena speechBritain Covey LinkedInInstagramStephen H. Covey LinkedIn

In this episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, hosts Stephen and Britain Covey are joined by leadership expert Liz Wiseman, author of ‘Multipliers’. Together, they dive into the powerful principles that distinguish "multipliers", leaders who amplify the intelligence and abilities of others, from "diminishers," who, despite good intentions, unknowingly hold people back. Liz shares her research and experiences, revealing how leadership can either bring out brilliance or unintentionally stifle growth. This conversation highlights how these concepts can apply not only in the workplace but also in teams, families, and everyday life. Stephen and Britain reflect on how these insights have shaped their own approaches to leadership. They discuss the importance of seeing potential in others and creating environments where people feel empowered to contribute their best. Stephen points out that it's not about being the smartest leader, but about finding ways to help others shine, while Britain shares how creating space for both safety and challenge is key to unlocking peak performance. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to foster growth, collaboration, and leadership in all areas of life. What We Discuss Notable Quotes Resources Paradigm Shifting Books PodcastInstagram YouTubeBook Multipliers by Liz WisemanLiz Wiseman The Wiseman Group WebsiteInstagramLinkedInBritain Covey LinkedInInstagramStephen H. Covey LinkedIn

In this episode, Stephen and Britain Covey focus on one transformative principle from Greg McKeown’s Essentialism, the 1-2-3 Method. This simple yet profound system is designed to help you cut through distractions and live each day with greater clarity and purpose. The 1-2-3 Method encourages you to choose one essential project to focus on deeply, two urgent and essential tasks that must be completed to stay on track, and three maintenance items that prevent life from spiraling into chaos. Stephen and Britain explore how this daily practice can bring structure to even the busiest schedules. Hear how Britain naturally experiences the 1-2-3 rhythm as a professional athlete through practice, film study, and recovery. Stephen shares how he applies the method both in his work life and on weekends with family, demonstrating that it works in every setting, from corporate offices to family trips to Disneyland. They also address why some critics dismiss the method as “too simple,” and explain why simplicity itself is the secret to its power in a world overloaded with notifications, meetings, and demands. By linking the 1-2-3 Method to James Clear’s Atomic Habits, they show how building the right system helps you succeed even on your hardest days. Tune in and discover how the 1-2-3 Method can help you design your day and lead your life with clarity and purpose. What We Discuss Paradigm Shifting Books Essentialism Notable Quotes Resources Paradigm Shifting Books PodcastInstagram YouTubeBooks Essentialism by Greg McKeownAtomic Habits by James ClearBritain Covey LinkedInInstagramStephen H. Covey LinkedIn

In Part 2 of our conversation with social psychologist and best-selling author Amy Cuddy, we delve deeper into the transformative science of presence and its impact on our confidence, success, and personal growth. Known for her groundbreaking TED Talk and book Presence, Amy shares the power of body language and its profound impact on our emotional states and performance. From power poses to overcoming self-doubt, this episode explores practical tools for embracing your personal power, connecting authentically, and overcoming life's challenges with unshakable confidence. Tune in to discover how small changes in posture and mindset can help you tap into your fullest potential when it matters most, whether in the boardroom, on stage, or in daily life. Amy's insights on how our bodies influence our minds and the world around us will leave you empowered to take on any challenge with poise and assurance. What We Discuss: Ted LassoGrey's AnatomyNotable Quotes: Resources Paradigm Shifting Books PodcastInstagram YouTubeBook Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest ChallengesAmy Cuddy WebsiteInstagramLinkedInBritain Covey LinkedInInstagramStephen H. Covey LinkedInX

In this first part of a two-part conversation, Amy Cuddy, renowned social psychologist and author of Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges, joins Stephen and Britain Covey to explore the powerful concept of presence. Amy delves into how our ability to bring our authentic, best selves to high-stakes situations, whether it’s a job interview, public speaking, or even sports, can drastically shift our confidence and performance. Drawing on years of research, she explains how presence is not a permanent state but a skill we can develop in order to show up with calm, composure, and confidence when it matters most. Through engaging discussions, Amy shares actionable insights into how we can all embrace our bravest selves during stressful moments, access authentic self-affirmations, and overcome the paralyzing effects of self-doubt and hyperawareness. This episode also explores the science behind self-affirmation theory and how small but powerful mental shifts can improve performance in unrelated challenges. Tune in to discover how cultivating personal power and agency can turn every challenge into an opportunity for growth and success. What We Discuss: Notable Quotes: Resources Paradigm Shifting Books PodcastInstagram YouTubeBook Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest ChallengesAmy Cuddy WebsiteInstagramLinkedInBritain Covey LinkedInInstagramStephen H. Covey LinkedInX

In this episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, hosts Stephen and Britain Covey continue their thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Craig Manning, author of ‘The Fearless Mind’. In this second part, Dr. Manning expands on how understanding your core identity and staying true to your strengths is the key to unlocking consistent high performance in any area of life. This episode digs deep into the concept of "task orientation" vs. "ego orientation" and how to shift your mindset for success. Dr. Manning, a performance psychologist, provides a masterclass on building mental resilience, explains the profound impact of fear on human performance, and gives practical advice for overcoming insecurity in both professional and personal contexts. Whether you’re an athlete, a business leader, or someone looking to improve everyday performance, the principles discussed here are universally applicable. What We Discuss: Notable Quotes: Resources Paradigm Shifting Books PodcastInstagram YouTubeBook The Fearless Mind: 5 Steps to Achieving Peak PerformanceDr. Craig Manning WebsiteInstagramLinkedInBritain Covey LinkedInInstagramStephen H. Covey LinkedInX

In this episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, hosts Stephen and Britain Covey begin a powerful two-part conversation with Dr. Craig Manning, author of The Fearless Mind. Part 1 unpacks why knowing who you truly are and unapologetically embracing your strengths is the foundation of consistent high performance. Dr. Manning shares his journey from athlete to performance psychologist, explains why he reframed “high performance” as human performance, and reveals how to build skills around your unique strengths instead of chasing someone else’s path. From the science of confidence to stories of elite athletes like Giannis Antetokounmpo scoring 50 points in the NBA Finals, this conversation makes mental performance training both practical and inspiring. The episode also highlights how the same principles apply outside of sports, in business, leadership, and everyday life. Because at its core, high performance isn’t about outcomes, it’s about identity. If you’ve ever felt the weight of comparison, pressure from authority figures, or uncertainty about your strengths, this episode offers a new framework to unlock your potential. What We Discuss Notable Quotes Resources Paradigm Shifting Books PodcastInstagram YouTubeBook The Fearless Mind: 5 Steps to Achieving Peak PerformanceDr. Craig Manning WebsiteInstagramLinkedInBritain Covey LinkedInInstagramStephen H. Covey LinkedInX

Despite rapid changes in the workplace and technological advancements, many leaders continue to rely on outdated “command and control” methods. In this episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, hosts Stephen and Britain Covey continue their powerful conversation with their father, Stephen M. R. Covey, about his groundbreaking book Trust and Inspire. Part 2 of the discussion dives even deeper into how leaders can shift their mindset, their language, and their relationships to become the kind of leader people actually want to follow. Stephen explores the difference between managing things and leading people, the practical application of stewardship agreements, and how even in moments of pressure, when our “style gets in the way of our intent”, we can choose to lead with trust and inspiration. From stories about Steve Jobs and Lin-Manuel Miranda to personal family experiences, this conversation makes Trust and Inspire practical, relatable, and transformational. The episode also highlights how trust and inspire leadership apply far beyond the workplace, in parenting, teaching, coaching, and everyday relationships. Because at its core, leadership isn’t a position, it’s a choice. If you’ve ever wondered how to balance accountability with empowerment, or how to unleash the potential already inside your team, this episode offers the roadmap. What We Discuss Notable Quotes Resources Paradigm Shifting Books PodcastInstagram YouTubeBooks Trust and Inspire The SPEED of TrustThe 8th Habit Stephen M. R. Covey LinkedInInstagramBritain Covey LinkedInInstagramStephen H. Covey LinkedInX

Did you know that despite the changing workplace dynamics and technological advancements, many leaders still adhere to outdated "command and control" models? In this episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, hosts Stephen and Britain Covey sit down once again with their father, Stephen M. R. Covey, to dive into his book Trust and Inspire. They explore why so many leaders are still stuck in an outdated “command and control” model, even though the world, the workforce, and the nature of collaboration have changed dramatically. Stephen explains the origins of the Trust and Inspire framework, rooted in his work with The Speed of Trust and inspired by lessons from his father, Stephen R. Covey. He shares the core leadership paradigm shifts that move organizations from micromanaging to unleashing the greatness already inside their people. The conversation tackles common misconceptions, like the idea that Trust and Inspire is “soft” or unrealistic in high-pressure industries. With real-world examples from football coaching, Fortune 500 companies like Microsoft, retail standouts like Wegmans, and even the military, Stephen shows that this leadership style delivers results without sacrificing accountability. One of the big takeaways: leadership isn’t just about getting results, it’s about growing people, building trust, and inspiring them to give their very best. And that’s not just idealistic; it’s a competitive advantage. What We Discuss Trust and Inspire Notable Quotes Resources Paradigm Shifting Books PodcastInstagram YouTubeBooks Trust and Inspire The SPEED of TrustThe 8th Habit Stephen M. R. Covey LinkedInInstagramBritain Covey LinkedInInstagramStephen H. Covey LinkedInX

In this episode of Paradigm Shifting Books, hosts Stephen and Britain Covey dive into The Four Disciplines of Execution by Chris McChesney, Sean Covey, and Jim Huling — joined by Chris McChesney himself to share insights firsthand. Together, they break down how the book’s core ideas of focusing on what really matters, tracking the right actions, using simple scoreboards, and sticking to regular check-ins can make a huge difference not just in business, but in everyday life, family routines, and even sports. Stephen and Britain point out something a lot of us feel: execution often falls apart because of human nature. But instead of just blaming ourselves, the fix is setting up systems that keep us on track. They share real, relatable examples, like how a sales team stayed motivated with a basic scoreboard or how NFL teams zoom in on just a few key plays to win big games. One big idea they keep coming back to is this: sometimes what seems like a “people problem” is actually a “system problem.” Britain talks about his time in the NFL and how practicing under pressure helped him stay cool when it really counted. Stephen shares how a weekly review habit helps him stay focused on what matters most. The episode is packed with practical takeaways, but one stands out. Choose just one area in your life that feels a bit out of control, give it some focused attention like it’s in the ICU, and apply these simple, proven disciplines to start seeing real results. What We Discuss Notable Quotes Resources Paradigm Shifting Books PodcastInstagram YouTubeBooks The 4 Disciplines of ExecutionAtomic HabitsGetting Things DoneBritain Covey LinkedInInstagramStephen H. Covey LinkedIn

In this episode, Stephen and Britain Covey dive into Crucial Conversations by Kerry Patterson, Joseph Grenny, Ron McMillan, and Al Switzler. This book completely changes the way we think about tough conversations. We’re talking about those moments when tensions rise, opinions clash, and saying the wrong thing feels risky. Stephen and Britain unpack why we tend to avoid these talks, how the stories we tell ourselves can mess with our emotions, and why cutting down on lag time, the delay between noticing a problem and actually addressing it can make such a difference in both relationships and organizations. You’ll also hear from Joseph Grenny himself, who joined the conversation to share how the lessons in Crucial Conversations show up in real life, from business to family to personal leadership. He explains what most people get wrong in high-stakes conversations and how to approach them with courage and clarity. From business meetings to NFL locker rooms, this episode is packed with real-life examples that show just how powerful these tools can be. You’ll come away with practical ideas to reduce lag time, handle conflict better, stay calm under pressure, and communicate with more clarity and confidence. Tune in, and get ready to change the way you handle your next tough conversation. What We Discuss Paradigm Shifting Books Notable Quotes Resources Paradigm Shifting Books PodcastInstagram YouTubeBooks Crucial ConversationsThe Power of NowStart With WhyJoseph Grenny LinkedInWebsiteBritain Covey LinkedInInstagramStephen H. Covey LinkedIn

In a world that glorifies talent and quick wins, this episode of Paradigm Shifting Books offers a refreshing take on what true success requires. Stephen and Britain Covey revisit Angela Duckworth’s Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance, exploring how real achievement isn’t about being born gifted; it’s about loving what you do enough to keep showing up. Through personal stories, from NFL training to parenting challenges, they unpack Duckworth’s core message: grit is the blend of long-term passion and perseverance. It’s not about grinding for the sake of it, but about aligning your effort with what matters most. They challenge the myth of talent, reflect on how passion develops gradually through exploration, and offer honest insights about raising resilient kids in a world that wants to cushion every fall. They also explore how grit doesn’t diminish happiness; it deepens it. When your effort aligns with your values, fulfillment follows. Whether you’re navigating your own career path, helping your kids build resilience, or simply trying to stay consistent with your goals, this episode will shift how you think about success. Grit isn’t just about surviving the hard days; it’s about being fueled by purpose through all of them. Tune in and discover what grit really looks like in action. What We Discuss Notable Quotes Resources Paradigm Shifting Books PodcastInstagram YouTubeBritain Covey LinkedInInstagramStephen H. Covey LinkedInMentioned Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance Writings of Epictetus (Ancient Roman Stoic Philosopher)

In this episode, Stephen and Britain Covey dive into Getting Things Done (GTD) by David Allen, a groundbreaking book that redefines productivity. They explore how GTD isn’t just about checking off tasks but about creating a trusted system to free your mind, reduce stress, and focus on what truly matters. Stephen shares his personal connection with David Allen, having worked closely with him early in his career. Together, they unpack the core principles of GTD, from "appropriate engagement" to the five-step workflow, and how these concepts can transform your work, relationships, and daily life. Through engaging storytelling and practical insights, this episode challenges the traditional view of productivity and offers a paradigm shift for managing your mind and tasks with clarity. Let's jump in! What We Discuss Notable Quotes Resources Paradigm Shifting Books PodcastInstagram YouTubeBooks Getting Things Done by David AllenDeep Work — Cal NewportFour Thousand— Oliver BurkemanDavid Allen WebsiteBritain Covey LinkedInInstagramStephen H. Covey LinkedIn

In this episode, Stephen and Britain Covey spotlight one of the most transformational ideas from The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Habit 1: Be Proactive. Featuring rare, archival audio from Stephen R. Covey himself, this episode explores the foundational mindset behind personal growth, empowerment, and leadership. Stephen R. Covey’s voice rings through decades to offer one of the most important paradigm shifts: that between what happens to us and how we respond, there lies our ultimate freedom. With stories from Viktor Frankl to frontline caregivers to corporate leaders, the episode shows how taking responsibility isn’t just a behavioral shift, it’s a life-altering lens for viewing the world. Whether you’re navigating career setbacks, relational challenges, or societal pressures, this episode will help you reclaim your agency and expand your influence. What We Discuss Notable Quotes Resources Paradigm Shifting Books PodcastInstagram YouTubeBooks The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R, CoveyBritain Covey LinkedInInstagramStephen H. Covey LinkedIn