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I'm thrilled to introduce a conversation that promises to be a game-changer for anyone seeking inspiration and guidance on the path to greatness. Today, we have a remarkable gathering of minds—Lewis Howes, the visionary behind The School of Greatness, and his extraordinary mentors who have each made a profound impact on the world. Joining us are Tony Robbins, a master of mindset and peak performance; Tim Ferriss, the guru of productivity and lifestyle design; Marie Forleo, a beacon of personal growth and business strategies; Arianna Huffington, a trailblazer in wellness and balance; and Gary Vaynerchuk, the powerhouse of entrepreneurial insights and social media mastery.
Together, they’ll share the wisdom and strategies that have not only shaped their own lives but have also empowered millions of others to achieve success.
This imaginary conversation will explore the essential elements of success—from creating a powerful vision and mastering daily habits to the importance of health, relationships, and resilience. Whether you're at the beginning of your journey or looking to elevate your current path, this discussion will offer valuable insights that you can apply in your own life to reach new heights. Get ready to be inspired, motivated, and equipped with the tools you need to build your own greatness.
Creating a Vision
Nick Sasaki: Welcome, everyone. Our first topic today is "Creating a Vision." Lewis, your emphasis on creating a vision is a cornerstone of your philosophy in The School of Greatness. Could you share how you developed this concept and how it has shaped your journey?
Lewis Howes: Absolutely, Nick. Creating a vision has always been about having a clear sense of direction. For me, it started when I was recovering from an injury that ended my professional football career. I was lost and unsure of what to do next, but I knew I needed a vision to guide me forward. The vision isn’t just about setting goals; it’s about crafting a life that aligns with your deepest desires and values. It gave me a purpose when I felt like I had none.
Tony Robbins: Lewis, I resonate with that. A vision is like the blueprint of your life. It’s about creating something compelling enough to pull you forward. I always say that people are not lazy; they simply have impotent goals—goals that do not inspire them. When your vision is strong enough, it fuels you with the energy and drive to push through the toughest challenges. The key is to be crystal clear about what you want and why you want it.
Tim Ferriss: I’d like to add that creating a vision is also about asking the right questions. When I was writing The 4-Hour Workweek, I asked myself what kind of lifestyle I wanted to live. That question led me to a vision of a life filled with freedom and adventure, which then guided my decisions. It’s about reverse-engineering your life from the end goal back to where you are now. By doing that, you can design a life that’s both fulfilling and uniquely yours.
Marie Forleo: Yes, Tim, and I’d say a vision is also about staying connected to your purpose. When you know your "why," everything else falls into place. For me, creating a vision wasn’t just about success in business, but about making a difference in people’s lives. My vision has always been to create a world where everyone realizes they have the power to change their lives and the lives of others through their unique gifts. That’s what drives me every day.
Arianna Huffington: I couldn’t agree more, Marie. I think a crucial aspect of creating a vision is ensuring it’s holistic. In today’s world, we often equate success with money and power, but a true vision encompasses well-being, wisdom, and wonder. At Thrive Global, our vision is to redefine success to include these elements. This broader vision allows us to achieve greatness without burning out, which is something I’ve personally learned the hard way.
Gary Vaynerchuk: And let’s not forget the importance of flexibility in your vision. I’ve seen so many people get stuck because they’re too rigid about what they want. The world is changing faster than ever, and if you’re not willing to pivot, you’re setting yourself up for failure. My vision is always evolving based on new opportunities and trends. What’s important is that you stay true to your core values while being open to change.
Nick Sasaki: It’s fascinating to hear how each of you approaches the idea of creating a vision. It’s clear that while the concept of a vision is universal, how we shape and pursue it can vary greatly depending on our values, experiences, and goals. Lewis, would you say that your mentors here have influenced your approach to vision?
Lewis Howes: Definitely, Nick. Each of these amazing individuals has played a role in refining my understanding of vision. Tony taught me the power of clarity and purpose; Tim showed me how to design my life; Marie emphasized purpose; Arianna brought in the aspect of well-being, and Gary highlighted the need for adaptability. My vision has been shaped by these diverse insights, and that’s what has allowed me to pursue greatness with a holistic approach.
Nick Sasaki: That’s a perfect start to our conversation. Let’s move on to the next topic, where we’ll discuss how to develop a champion’s mindset.
Developing a Champion’s Mindset
Nick Sasaki: Our next topic is “Developing a Champion’s Mindset.” Lewis, in The School of Greatness, you emphasize the importance of mindset in achieving success. Could you share how this mindset has influenced your journey and what it takes to cultivate it?
Lewis Howes: Absolutely, Nick. Developing a champion’s mindset has been central to everything I’ve accomplished. After my injury, I realized that physical setbacks could be overcome with mental strength. A champion’s mindset is about resilience, persistence, and an unwavering belief in your potential. It’s not just about winning, but about embracing challenges, learning from failures, and continuing to push forward no matter what.
Tony Robbins: Lewis, you’ve hit the nail on the head. Mindset is everything. I always tell people that the most successful individuals are not those who avoid failure, but those who see failure as a stepping stone to success. It’s about conditioning your mind to stay focused on what you want, rather than what you fear. A champion’s mindset is cultivated through rituals, habits, and the constant pursuit of improvement. It’s about training yourself to see the opportunity in every situation.
Tim Ferriss: I think what’s crucial here is the ability to question the status quo. Developing a champion’s mindset often involves challenging conventional wisdom and daring to think differently. When I was writing The 4-Hour Workweek, I questioned the traditional work-life balance and created a new model that worked for me. It’s about optimizing not just your time, but also your mental and emotional energy. The mindset of a champion is one that constantly seeks out better, more efficient ways to achieve goals.
Marie Forleo: I’d like to add that a champion’s mindset also involves deep self-awareness and emotional intelligence. It’s about understanding your triggers, knowing how to manage your emotions, and staying grounded in your values. For me, that means recognizing when I’m getting caught up in negative self-talk and consciously choosing to shift my perspective. It’s about being your own biggest cheerleader while also being honest about where you need to grow.
Arianna Huffington: Another important aspect is the mindset of well-being. Often, we equate a champion’s mindset with hustle and grind, but I believe true champions prioritize their health and mental clarity. At Thrive Global, we’ve found that when people are well-rested and take time to recharge, they are more creative, productive, and resilient. A champion’s mindset includes the ability to step back, take care of oneself, and return to the challenge with renewed energy and focus.
Gary Vaynerchuk: And let’s not forget about the mindset of gratitude. In the race to achieve greatness, it’s easy to lose sight of what you already have. I practice gratitude every day because it keeps me grounded and focused on the bigger picture. When you appreciate what you have, you’re not operating from a place of scarcity, but from a place of abundance. That’s the mindset that allows you to take risks, make bold decisions, and stay resilient in the face of setbacks.
Nick Sasaki: It’s interesting to see how each of you incorporates different elements into what makes up a champion’s mindset. Lewis, it seems like your approach is a blend of resilience, self-awareness, and gratitude. Would you say that these mentors have helped shape your understanding of what it takes to develop this mindset?
Lewis Howes: Absolutely, Nick. Tony taught me the power of rituals and mental conditioning; Tim showed me the importance of challenging norms and optimizing my energy; Marie emphasized the role of self-awareness and emotional intelligence; Arianna highlighted the necessity of well-being, and Gary underscored the importance of gratitude. Their combined wisdom has helped me cultivate a mindset that’s not only focused on success but also on fulfillment and balance.
Nick Sasaki: Thank you, Lewis, and everyone else for those insights. The mindset of a champion indeed requires a holistic approach that goes beyond just winning. Next, let’s explore the daily habits that contribute to long-term success.
Practicing Daily Habits for Success
Nick Sasaki: Moving on to our third topic, “Practicing Daily Habits for Success,” let’s discuss the small, consistent actions that lead to long-term achievements. Lewis, in The School of Greatness, you emphasize the power of daily habits. Could you share how these habits have contributed to your journey?
Lewis Howes: Definitely, Nick. Daily habits are the foundation of everything I’ve achieved. When I was at my lowest point, I realized that the big goals I had wouldn’t be achieved overnight. It was the small, consistent actions I took every day that ultimately led to big changes. Whether it was waking up early, working out, journaling, or reading, these habits created a structure that kept me focused and driven. They turned my vision into a reality, one day at a time.
Tony Robbins: Lewis, I couldn’t agree more. Success is not about what you do occasionally, but what you do consistently. I talk a lot about rituals because they are the key to creating momentum. For me, morning rituals are sacred—they set the tone for the rest of the day. Whether it’s priming, meditating, or moving my body, these habits prepare my mind and body to perform at their best. When you control your habits, you control your destiny.
Tim Ferriss: I’d like to build on that by saying that the key to successful habits is not just consistency but also effectiveness. I’m a big proponent of testing and optimizing habits. For example, when I started experimenting with my morning routine, I tried different activities like cold showers, meditation, and specific exercises until I found the combination that worked best for me. The goal is to create habits that not only stick but also provide the maximum return on investment in terms of energy and productivity.
Marie Forleo: I think it’s also important to emphasize that habits should align with your goals and values. For instance, one of my daily habits is setting intentions for the day. This habit keeps me aligned with my bigger purpose and ensures that my actions are intentional rather than reactive. Another habit I practice is gratitude journaling, which helps me stay positive and focused on what truly matters. These small, intentional actions accumulate over time, leading to meaningful progress.
Arianna Huffington: And let’s not forget the importance of habits that nurture your well-being. At Thrive Global, we focus on microsteps—small, actionable habits that can have a profound impact on your overall health and productivity. One of my personal habits is a strict no-devices policy before bedtime, which helps me wind down and get quality sleep. Another is taking short breaks throughout the day to breathe and reset. These habits might seem small, but they protect your mental and physical health, which is essential for sustained success.
Gary Vaynerchuk: I’m a big believer in habits that foster hustle and consistency. For me, it’s about maximizing every moment. I’m always on the move, whether it’s creating content, engaging with my community, or strategizing for the future. But one habit that I swear by is empathy. Every day, I make it a point to listen to my team, my audience, and even my critics. This habit keeps me connected to the people I serve and helps me make better decisions. Empathy is a habit that keeps you grounded and aware of the bigger picture.
Nick Sasaki: It’s clear that daily habits play a critical role in each of your lives, shaping not just your day but your overall trajectory. Lewis, how have these mentors influenced the daily habits you’ve adopted in your life?
Lewis Howes: Each of these mentors has definitely left a mark on my daily routines. Tony taught me the power of morning rituals and setting the right tone for the day. Tim’s approach to testing and optimizing habits helped me refine my routines. Marie’s focus on intentionality and gratitude has made my habits more aligned with my values. Arianna’s emphasis on well-being led me to adopt habits that protect my mental and physical health, and Gary’s relentless focus on hustle and empathy has kept me connected to the people I serve. These daily habits are the building blocks of my success.
Nick Sasaki: Thank you, Lewis, and to everyone for sharing your insights. It’s evident that success is built on the small, consistent actions we take every day. Let’s move on to our fourth topic, where we’ll discuss mastering health as a critical component of greatness.
Mastering Your Health
Nick Sasaki: Our fourth topic is “Mastering Your Health.” Health is often considered the foundation of success, and in The School of Greatness, Lewis, you emphasize its importance. How has mastering your health contributed to your journey, and what advice do you have for others on this topic?
Lewis Howes: Health has been a game-changer for me, Nick. After my injury, I realized that without good health, it’s almost impossible to achieve your goals. Mastering my health wasn’t just about physical fitness; it was about mental and emotional well-being too. I adopted a holistic approach, focusing on nutrition, exercise, sleep, and mindfulness. By making health a priority, I gained more energy, clarity, and resilience, which translated into greater productivity and success in all areas of my life.
Tony Robbins: Lewis, you’re absolutely right. Health is wealth. I’ve always believed that if you don’t take care of your body, where are you going to live? I’ve worked with thousands of people, and I’ve seen firsthand how a lack of energy and vitality can hold them back from achieving their dreams. That’s why I’m such an advocate for physical fitness, proper nutrition, and mental conditioning. It’s not just about looking good; it’s about feeling good and having the energy to follow through on your vision.
Tim Ferriss: I’d like to add that mastering your health also involves experimenting to find what works best for you. I’ve tried numerous diets, exercise routines, and biohacking techniques to optimize my health. One thing I’ve learned is that everyone is different, so it’s crucial to personalize your approach. For example, intermittent fasting works wonders for some people, while others thrive on multiple small meals throughout the day. The key is to pay attention to how your body responds and adjust accordingly.
Marie Forleo: Health, for me, is about balance. It’s not just about hitting the gym or eating clean; it’s about nurturing your entire self. One of the practices that have been essential for me is meditation. It’s a habit that grounds me, reduces stress, and keeps my mind sharp. I also focus on intuitive eating—listening to my body and giving it what it needs rather than following strict diets. It’s about creating a lifestyle that supports your overall well-being, not just your physical health.
Arianna Huffington: I completely agree, Marie. Sleep, in particular, is a non-negotiable part of mastering your health. After collapsing from exhaustion years ago, I made it my mission to prioritize sleep and educate others on its importance. At Thrive Global, we advocate for the idea that sleep is a performance-enhancing activity. Getting enough rest is essential for cognitive function, emotional regulation, and overall health. It’s time we moved away from the glorification of burnout and embraced the power of rest and recovery.
Gary Vaynerchuk: I’ll be honest, health wasn’t always my top priority. For years, I was all about the hustle, and I didn’t pay enough attention to my physical well-being. But as I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized that to keep playing the long game, I need to take care of myself. Now, I make sure to get in some form of exercise every day, whether it’s lifting weights, playing basketball, or just going for a walk. It’s about finding what works for you and sticking with it. Also, mental health is just as important. I talk to a therapist regularly, and it’s made a huge difference in how I handle stress and challenges.
Nick Sasaki: It’s inspiring to hear how each of you approaches health, not just as a means to an end but as a core component of a fulfilling life. Lewis, how have these perspectives influenced your own approach to health?
Lewis Howes: Each of these mentors has taught me something valuable about mastering health. Tony showed me the power of energy and vitality in pursuing my vision. Tim’s experimentation encouraged me to find what works best for my body. Marie’s focus on balance and mindfulness has helped me create a holistic health routine. Arianna’s emphasis on sleep made me rethink how I approach rest and recovery, and Gary’s journey taught me the importance of mental health and playing the long game. Their insights have shaped my commitment to health as the foundation of everything I do.
Nick Sasaki: Thank you, Lewis, and thank you all for those valuable insights. Mastering health truly is the foundation upon which greatness is built. Let’s now move to our final topic, where we’ll explore the importance of building meaningful relationships in the journey to success.
Building Meaningful Relationships
Nick Sasaki: Our final topic today is “Building Meaningful Relationships.” Success is often attributed to individual effort, but the importance of relationships cannot be overstated. Lewis, in The School of Greatness, you talk about the role that strong relationships have played in your journey. Can you share more about this?
Lewis Howes: Absolutely, Nick. Building meaningful relationships has been a cornerstone of my success. I’ve learned that no one achieves greatness alone. The people you surround yourself with can either lift you up or hold you back. Throughout my journey, I’ve made it a priority to connect with individuals who inspire, challenge, and support me. Relationships are about giving as much as they are about receiving—whether it’s through mentorship, collaboration, or simply being there for someone. These connections have opened doors, provided guidance, and enriched my life in ways I couldn’t have imagined.
Tony Robbins: Lewis, I couldn’t agree more. Relationships are the ultimate resource. I’ve always said that the quality of your life is the quality of your relationships. Whether it’s your personal or professional life, the people you choose to connect with will have a profound impact on your success. Building meaningful relationships is about creating a network of trust, respect, and mutual support. It’s about adding value to others’ lives, which in turn adds value to yours. The people you spend time with are who you become, so choose wisely.
Tim Ferriss: I’d like to add that building meaningful relationships often involves being intentional about the people you connect with. One thing I’ve practiced over the years is the idea of “selective networking.” It’s not about how many people you know, but about the depth and quality of those connections. I focus on building relationships with people who are aligned with my values and goals. This approach has led to some of the most fruitful and fulfilling collaborations in my life. It’s about finding people who challenge you to think differently, who inspire you to grow, and who are genuinely invested in your success.
Marie Forleo: For me, relationships are all about authenticity and reciprocity. When you show up as your true self and genuinely care about others, you build trust and create deep, lasting connections. It’s not just about what others can do for you, but what you can do for them. I’ve found that when you lead with a spirit of generosity and service, you naturally attract people who resonate with your energy and values. These meaningful connections become the foundation for both personal fulfillment and professional success.
Arianna Huffington: I think it’s also important to recognize the role of empathy and compassion in building relationships. In today’s fast-paced world, we often forget to slow down and really listen to others. At Thrive Global, we emphasize the importance of empathy in the workplace and in our personal lives. Meaningful relationships are built on understanding, compassion, and a willingness to support others, even when it doesn’t immediately benefit us. These relationships provide a sense of belonging and community, which are essential for our well-being and success.
Gary Vaynerchuk: I’ll jump in here to say that relationships, for me, are all about empathy and legacy. I care deeply about how I make people feel, whether it’s my team, my clients, or my audience. Building meaningful relationships is about putting others first and playing the long game. I’ve built my entire career on the foundation of relationships—being there for people, listening, and showing up when it matters. These relationships aren’t just transactions; they’re the foundation of my legacy. When you focus on building genuine connections, everything else falls into place.
Nick Sasaki: It’s clear that each of you places a high value on relationships and has a unique approach to building and nurturing them. Lewis, how have these perspectives influenced the way you approach relationships in your life?
Lewis Howes: Each of these mentors has profoundly impacted how I build and value relationships. Tony’s focus on the quality of relationships has taught me to be intentional about who I surround myself with. Tim’s idea of selective networking has helped me deepen connections with those who truly align with my goals. Marie’s emphasis on authenticity has encouraged me to show up as my true self in every interaction. Arianna’s insights on empathy have made me more compassionate and understanding in my relationships, and Gary’s focus on empathy and legacy has reminded me of the long-term impact of every connection I make. These relationships are the bedrock of my success, and I’m grateful for the wisdom each of these mentors has shared with me.
Nick Sasaki: Thank you, Lewis, and to everyone for sharing such valuable insights on building meaningful relationships. It’s evident that relationships are not just a part of success; they are integral to it. This concludes our conversation today, but the lessons shared here will resonate for a long time. Thank you all for being part of this discussion.
Short Bios:
Lewis Howes is a former professional athlete turned lifestyle entrepreneur. He's the creator of The School of Greatness, a top-rated podcast and best-selling book series focused on personal development, success, and fulfillment.
Tony Robbins is a world-renowned life coach, motivational speaker, and author, known for his work in personal development, peak performance, and business strategies. His programs and seminars have transformed millions of lives worldwide.
Tim Ferriss is an entrepreneur, best-selling author, and podcast host best known for his book The 4-Hour Workweek. He is a pioneer in lifestyle design, productivity hacks, and self-experimentation.
Marie Forleo is a life coach, author, and founder of B-School, an online business program. She is known for her focus on personal growth, entrepreneurship, and helping people create a life they love.
Arianna Huffington is the founder of The Huffington Post and Thrive Global, a company focused on wellness and work-life balance. She is a prominent advocate for sleep, well-being, and redefining success.
Gary Vaynerchuk is a serial entrepreneur, author, and social media expert. He is the CEO of VaynerMedia and is known for his insights into digital marketing, personal branding, and hustle culture.
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