I Dare You Podcast

In this episode, I sit down with Lillian Zhang, author of The New Money Rules: The Gen Z Guide to Personal Finance.  Her debut book aims to help young people globally overcome money anxiety and develop the habits and foundation they need to thrive.  Lillian Zhang is a personal finance educator who helps Gen Z and millennials build confidence with money through practical, relatable content. A Silicon Valley professional and a Haas School of Business graduate from the University of California, Berkeley, she blends real-world experience with actionable guidance that resonates with young adults navigating today’s financial landscape.  Lillian has been featured on CNBC Make It, Business Insider, Bloomberg, ABC’s Good Morning America, and Yahoo Finance.  At just 25 years old, Lillian is changing the conversation around money for an entire generation. Her massive following on TikTok and Instagram is evidence that her message is breaking through. What you’ll learn: Why Gen Z is ditching the latte factor advice and focusing on growing their income instead.  Why talking openly about money isn't taboo anymore—it's empowering.  Money hacks and simple strategies you can implement today The important difference between two types of side hustles you  Order The New Money Rules at your local independent book store or at  Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/New-Money-Rules-Personal-Finance/dp/B0DW678THW Want more I Dare You insights? Sing up for my weekly email with free, road-tested strategies you can implement in your life: www.idareyoupod.com Connect with Lillian: www.lillianzhang.com TikTok: @lillianzhang Instagram: @bylillianzhang Youtube: @lillianzhang_

What if the biggest obstacle between you and the life you want isn't your circumstances—it's your ego? In this episode, I sit down with Jim Murphy, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Inner Excellence and performance coach to some of the best athletes and leaders in the world. Jim's story isn't about overnight success. He's a former pro baseball player who lost his career to injury, spent five years in the desert wrestling with his identity, and emerged with a message that's transforming lives at the highest levels of sport and business. Jim works with Olympians and championship teams, but this conversation isn't just for elite athletes. It's for anyone chasing success thinking it will finally make them happy. Anyone who looks good on the outside but feels empty inside. Anyone tired of the endless treadmill of trying to be enough. We dive deep into mastering your ego, training your heart, and why your hardest moments might be the most important things that ever happen to you.  Plus: Exclusive for I Dare You Podcast listeners: Grab 3 free custom PDFs (Effortless visual synopsis, workbook, and Be At Ease worksheet) at idareupod.com. Connect with Jim: www.innerexcellence.com Instagram: @innerexcellence

Two hundred episodes. I’m still not chasing charts—I’m chasing change. In this milestone episode, I pull together the 10 biggest lessons from every interview, solo riff, on-stage presentation, and conversation with YOU. If you’re new here, you picked the perfect moment to jump in. Here’s the heartbeat: Consistency beats motivation. Small, boring inputs create the biggest outcomes. You can’t have it all, but you can have all that matters. Your calendar tells the truth. Time is your sharpest weapon. Block it, guard it, use it with intent. Wellness is the long game. Think decades. Train strength. Prioritize healthspan. Identity drives habit. Become the person your future self will thank. Your mindset is a battlefield. Curate your inputs like your life depends on it. Avoid the drift. Master your mornings. Make the first hour the best hour. Your comfort zone is killing your dream. Fear is a compass, not a stop sign. Action wins. Every choice is a vote for who you’re becoming. Follow the community on Instagram at @IDareYouPod and grab my Friday email at idareyoupod.com. The magic you’re looking for is in the work you’re avoiding. Let’s go. Plus: Exclusive for I Dare You Podcast listeners: Grab 3 free custom PDFs (Effortless visual synopsis, workbook, and Be At Ease worksheet) at idareupod.com. Connect with Darrin Johnson: www.idareyoupod.com Instagram: @idareyoupod YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@IDareYouPod TikTok: @idareyoupod

Tony Miltenberger is a pastor, Army veteran, executive coach, podcaster, and author of Wisdom in the Wound: How God Uses Your Past to Shape Who You’re Becoming.  Tony brings over 15 years of leadership experience in non-profit leadership and is the creator and host of the Follow 2 Lead Podcast, with over 400 episodes recorded to date. His message blends real-world grit with spiritual wisdom and practical tools to help you live a better life. Tony is a devoted husband and father who draws strength and inspiration from his family. He has been married to his high school sweetheart, Karen, for over 20 years, and together they are raising three incredible children, Connor, Caleb, and Shiloh. Plus: Exclusive for I Dare You Podcast listeners: Grab 3 free custom PDFs (Effortless visual synopsis, workbook, and Be At Ease worksheet) at idareupod.com. Connect with Tony: www.follow2leadcoaching.com Instagram: @follow2leadpodcast Instagram: @twmilt

For high achievers who are tired of being everything for everyone, this episode is your permission slip to stop over-explaining and apologizing for setting boundaries in life. My special guest, Dr. Jen Fry, is a TEDx speaker, conflict expert, and author of a dynamite new book, “I Said No: A No-BS Guide to Boundaries Without the Guilt.” She owns JenFryTalks and also owns Coordle, a B2B tech company tackling youth sports travel chaos. Jen understands how conflict within athletics, corporate, or professional settings can impact a team. Jen wants to help you build the skills you need to navigate those hard but essential conversations and come out on top.  She is a veteran coach with over 15 years of experience at the collegiate level with coaching stints at Elon University, University of Illinois - 2011 National Runner-up, Washington State University, and Norfolk State University.  She received her PhD in Sports Geography from Michigan State University. Connect with Dr. Jen Fry: www.jenfrytalks.com Instagram: @jenfrytalks

In this solo episode, I challenge everything you thought you knew about leadership and communication. Are you being "nice" or are you actually being kind? Spoiler alert: there's a massive difference, and it's costing you credibility, power, and results. I reveal why people-pleasing is sabotaging your leadership and provide a clear framework to become a Kind, Clear, and Assertive Leader: You'll learn: The critical distinction between "nice" (people-pleasing) and "kind" (people-growing) A quick diagnostic tool to determine if you’re too nice! Two micro-scripts you can use immediately to have difficult conversations with clarity and empathy The I Dare You Kindness Framework to become a Kind Leader Three non-negotiable rules that will transform how you lead Whether you're leading a team, managing up, or navigating personal relationships, this episode gives you the tactical tools to stop avoiding hard conversations and start having them with dignity, respect, and results. This episode will fundamentally change how you show up at work and in life. The I Dare You “Kind Framework”: (Kind, Clear, Assertive) Step 1: Prepare the truth (Give specific evidence) Step 2: What is the impact? (Deliver in a calm, clear, and kind manner) Step 3: Make the assertive ask (specific request - no fuzzy agreements) Step 4: Set boundaries (Clear next steps / decisions of what happens next) Step 5: Reinforce respect (affirm them / thank them) Plus: Exclusive for I Dare You Podcast listeners: Grab 3 free custom PDFs (Effortless visual synopsis, workbook, and Be At Ease worksheet) at idareupod.com. Connect with Darrin Johnson: www.idareyoupod.com Instagram: @idareyoupod YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@IDareYouPod TikTok: @idareyoupod

Feeling stuck in the midlife drift? In this powerful episode, Jason Smith—fitness coach, owner of Fit in Midlife, and Men's Fitness Magazine cover star—shares his incredible transformation from corporate burnout to thriving in his 50s.  Discover how he escaped 30 years of neglecting his health, the real dangers of alcohol that nobody talks about, and why "safety in numbers" kept him trapped for so long.  Jason reveals practical insights on recognizing when you're drifting through life, the connection between alcohol and declining health, and how prioritizing fitness became the foundation for transforming not just his body, but his relationships, career, and entire outlook on life.  If you're over 40 and ready to reclaim your energy, vitality, and purpose, this conversation will inspire you to take action today. Plus: Exclusive for I Dare You Podcast listeners: Grab 3 free custom PDFs (Effortless visual synopsis, workbook, and Be At Ease worksheet) at idareupod.com. Connect with Jason: www.fitinmidlife.com Instagram: @fitinmidlife TikTok: @fitinmidlife

Amanda Goetz is a 2x Founder, CEO and 4x CMO. She is an inspirational writer and content creator captivating millions of people every month through her social insights and newsletter “Life’s a Game”.  Amanda’s new best-selling book, Toxic Grit: How to Have It All and (actually) Love What You Have, is a rally cry about thriving without the grind. Amanda graduated Summa Cum Laude from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and went on to lead marketing teams at Ernst & Young, The Knot and still advises as Fractional CMO to multiple startups.  She started her last company, House of Wise, during the pandemic in her garage, raised two rounds of venture capital and sold it in 2022 all while homeschooling three young children as a single mom.  She found love again and lives with her partner and 3 kiddos in Miami, FL after a decade dodging hustle culture in NYC. Plus: Exclusive for I Dare You Podcast listeners: Grab 3 free custom PDFs (Effortless visual synopsis, workbook, and Be At Ease worksheet) at idareupod.com. Connect with Amanda: Instagram: @theamandagoetz www.amandagoetz.com

January is overrated. In this solo episode, I flip the cultural script and make a compelling case for starting your goals in October. You’ll learn why the next 90 days create natural urgency without panic, how to use “fresh start” effects that stack in your favor, and the simple weekly ritual that makes progress feel easier, not heavier. What you’ll learn: The October Advantage: why change sticks better now than in January Parkinson’s Law and how 90 days sharpens focus and kills procrastination Why writing goals by hand boosts recall and commitment The 5‑step Be At Ease Blueprint to engineer an effortless state: Time‑block a weekly Reset Ritual Mind Sweep with Delete, Delegate, Do Build your Friction List The One Thing test 15‑minute Microbursts (and the 2.5‑second rule) Plus: Grab 3 free custom PDFs (Effortless visual synopsis, workbook, and Be At Ease worksheet) at idareupod.com. Follow @idareyoupod and share this episode with someone who wants their best year to start now. Connect with Darrin Johnson: www.idareyoupod.com Instagram: @idareyoupod YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@IDareYouPod TikTok: @idareyoupod

On this episode of the I Dare You Podcast, we welcome Alfred Brenner, a former Marine Corps K9 Handler whose life took a dramatic turn in 2010. After completing Marine Corps Boot Camp at Paris Island, Alfred's path led him to Military Police School and eventually to become a K9 Handler, training at Lackland AFB in San Antonio, Texas. While deployed in 2010, Sgt. Brenner was severely injured by an IED explosion that tragically took the life of his K9 partner, Grief. Through numerous surgeries and months of physical recovery, Alfred discovered that the emotional pain of losing his partner far outweighed his physical wounds. It was during this healing journey that he found his new purpose. Before medically retiring from the Marines, Alfred made one final contribution by helping train the next generation of handlers. Today, his mission has transformed into sharing his powerful experiences as a handler and inspiring others with his message of resilience and how to "Survive with Grief". Exclusive for I Dare You Podcast listeners, be part of The Dare Club and get your FREE Thrive visual synopsis, Thrive worksheet, and Well-Being Assessment PDFs!  Simply go to www.idareyoupod.com Connect with Alfred: Social: @sgtbrenner survivingwithgrief@gmail.com www.survivingwithgrief.com

In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Dr. Corinne Low, Associate Professor at the Wharton School and author of "Having It All: What Data Tells Us About Women's Lives and Getting the Most Out of Yours." Dr. Low shares her groundbreaking research on the modern challenges facing working mothers and why women often find themselves "winning the bread and baking it too." Drawing from 15 years of original research and her personal journey as a working mother, Dr. Low reveals startling data about gender roles at home versus the workplace. Discover why mothers today spend twice as much time with their children as previous generations, how female breadwinners still do twice the housework of their male partners, and why the explosion in parenting time since the 1990s has created a "perfect storm" for working women. Whether you're juggling career and family or simply interested in the data behind gender dynamics, this conversation offers both validation and practical insights for creating more balanced lives. Don't miss this compelling discussion about the structural challenges women face and how we might reimagine what "having it all" really means. Exclusive for I Dare You Podcast listeners, be part of The Dare Club and get your FREE Thrive visual synopsis, Thrive worksheet, and Well-Being Assessment PDFs!  Simply go to www.idareyoupod.com Connect with Dr. Corinne Low: www.corinnelow.substack.com www.corinnelow.com Instagram: @corinnelowphd

What’s the ONE thing that separates success from failure? In this powerful episode, I reveal why consistency is the ultimate secret weapon of high performers. Discover the Dare Consistency Blueprint - a proven three-step system that will transform how you approach your goals and help you push through the ‘murky middle’. Learn why doing hard things first thing each morning can revolutionize your productivity, how to master the critical ‘murky middle’ where most people quit, and the surprising research about consistency in leadership that you can’t afford to ignore. Whether you’re starting a new project or stuck in the middle of one, this episode provides the practical tools you need to join the top 1% in whatever matters most to you. Exclusive for I Dare You Podcast listeners, be part of The Dare Club and get your FREE Thrive visual synopsis, Thrive worksheet, and Well-Being Assessment PDFs!  Simply go to www.idareyoupod.com Connect with Darrin Johnson: www.idareyoupod.com Instagram: @idareyoupod YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@IDareYouPod TikTok: @idareyoupod

In today’s episode, I am thrilled to introduce you to Michelle "MACE" Curran - an absolute force of nature who embodies everything this podcast stands for. Michelle “MACE” Curran is a former United States Air Force fighter pilot with nearly 2,000 hours of F-16 flying time. She flew combat missions in Afghanistan and honed her skills across the globe. Then, she served as the Lead Solo Pilot for the Thunderbirds, the Air Force’s elite demonstration team - becoming the fourth woman in history to do so! Michelle is also the author of an incredible new book, The Flipside: How to Invert Your Perspective and Turn Fear Into Your Superpower. She has helped notable clients like Microsoft, Boeing, John Deere, SpaceX, Purina, PwC, and more make bold choices and push past obstacles.  Exclusive for I Dare You Podcast listeners, be part of The Dare Club and get your FREE Thrive visual synopsis, Thrive worksheet, and Well-Being Assessment PDFs!  Simply go to www.idareyoupod.com Connect with Michelle “MACE” Curran: Instagram: @mace_curran www. macecurran.com

In this powerful episode,my guest is Chris Bingham, a federal law enforcement officer with 23 years of service and 17 years as a K-9 handler.  In this heartfelt conversation, Chris shares his journey with Tambo, his retired K9 partner, who is battling cancer.  K9 Tambo is a remarkable 11-year-old German Shepherd whose life has been defined by dedication, courage, and service. Born with a strong working drive and intelligence, Tambo was selected early on for a career in law enforcement as an Explosive Detection K9 within the Federal Police’s Law Enforcement Intelligence Community. Over the course of approximately seven years, Tambo distinguished himself as an invaluable asset in one of the East Coast’s busiest and most successful K9 units. Discover how Project K9 Hero, a national nonprofit founded by Jason Johnson, has twice saved Tambo's life - first funding surgery for an ACL tear, and later emergency surgery when Tambo faced a life-threatening ruptured mass on his spleen. This episode explores the profound, unspoken bond between handler and canine, the challenges facing retired service dogs, and one man's mission to be "a voice for the voiceless." A must-listen for dog lovers and anyone who appreciates stories of loyalty, service, and the fight against all odds. Exclusive for I Dare You Podcast listeners, be part of The Dare Club and get your FREE Thrive visual synopsis, Thrive worksheet, and Well-Being Assessment PDFs!  Simply go to www.idareyoupod.com To learn more about H.R. Honoring Our K9 Heroes Act: https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/3144 Connect with Tambo and Learn More: Instagram: @k9_tambo www.projectk9hero.org Instagram: @projectk9hero

In this no-BS episode, I break down the EXACT strategies that will put you on the shortlist for your next promotion. But here's the twist - I also reveal why that corner office might be the WRONG mountain to climb. You'll discover: The 5 proven strategies that make you the OBVIOUS choice for promotion Why most people are focusing on the wrong goals (and how to shift your mindset) The morning question that will make your boss fight for your advancement How to create visibility for your work without being obnoxious If you're tired of watching less qualified people move ahead while you stay stuck, this episode is your wake-up call. Download now and transform your career trajectory before Monday morning. Exclusive for I Dare You Podcast listeners, be part of The Dare Club and get your FREE Thrive visual synopsis, Thrive worksheet, and Well-Being Assessment PDFs!  Simply go to www.idareyoupod.com Check out AI courses here: https://www.nvidia.com/en-us/training/self-paced-courses/ See the Scottie Scheffler interview here: https://www.reddit.com/r/golf/comments/1m0hqjl/world_1_scottie_scheffler_with_an_incredibly_deep/ Connect with Darrin Johnson: www.idareyoupod.com Instagram: @idareyoupod YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@IDareYouPod TikTok: @idareyoupod

This is a conversation you need to hear. London Marie Day is an 8th grader from Texas and the author of Can I Sit Here?, a children’s book that teaches kids they can be a friend—even when they feel lonely. Her book and this conversation will help your child navigate loneliness, build resilience, and grow in confidence!  London has a passion for writing, drawing, and theater. She also loves to run and participate in both cross-country and track. London’s mom is Dr. Heather Thompson Day, a bestselling Christian author and interdenominational speaker. Heather was my also my guest on Episode 174: How to Thrive through Fear and Failure. Exclusive for I Dare You Podcast listeners, be part of The Dare Club and get your FREE Thrive visual synopsis, Thrive worksheet, and Well-Being Assessment PDFs!  Simply go to www.idareyoupod.com Connect with London: Youtube: @LoveWithLondon Connect with Dr. Heather Thompson Day Instagram: @heatherthompsonday

In this powerful episode, my guest is my big brother Randy Johnson, debut author of "Proverbs of Influence: Timeless Truths to Build Trust and Gain Influence."  This episode will feel less like an interview and more like having your personal executive coach right beside you. With over 25 years in executive leadership roles across some of the world's most prestigious companies, Randy’s insights on leadership and influence are drawn from real-world challenges and successes at the highest levels of business. Randy’s personal and professional experiences have crystallized into 12 powerful Proverbs that form the foundation of his leadership philosophy—each one a stepping stone on your own journey to greater influence. So grab a notepad—your executive coaching session is about to begin! Plus, unlock the secret to Thriving with a powerful "I Dare You Challenge" and gain access to exclusive, custom-designed PDFs designed by world-class designer Dani Savaker. Exclusive for I Dare You Podcast listeners, be part of The Dare Club and get your FREE Thrive visual synopsis, Thrive worksheet, and Well-Being Assessment PDFs!  Simply go to www.idareyoupod.com Connect with Randy: Instagram: @rjohnson_azmn Instagram: @proverbsofinfluence

In this powerful episode, I’m breaking down Arianna Huffington's global best-seller, Thrive, and diving deep into a revolutionary concept called "the third metric" that completely redefines success.  Thriving is much more than money and power. This episode is a rally cry to stop the endless chase and start living with intention through a specific well-being blueprint you can implement today. Plus, unlock the secret to Thriving with a powerful "I Dare You Challenge" and gain access to exclusive, custom-designed PDFs designed by world-class designer Dani Savaker. Exclusive for I Dare You Podcast listeners, be part of The Dare Club and get your FREE Thrive visual synopsis, Thrive worksheet, and Well-Being Assessment PDFs!  Simply go to www.idareyoupod.com In the episode, I reference “A Handful of Years” by Donna Ashworth: There will come a day When you will glance At your child And be met by an adult   And it will wipe the very floor From under your feet When you realise In that moment That you were only ever minding them Until they fly away   Because back then When you were so consumed With the daily grind of parenting You felt like this was forever   Yet we know Nothing truly is forever   Just a handful of years You will know them as a child And if you are blessed Many more You will know them as an adult   drink them in If you can drink them in.   Connect with Darrin Johnson: www.idareyoupod.com Instagram: @idareyoupod YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@IDareYouPod TikTok: @idareyoupod

Kavita Ajwani is one of the world’s top dating psychology coaches for men and the founder of Dashing Date. With over 13 years of experience, she helps men navigate modern dating with confidence and success. She’s the resident dating expert on Breakfast Television and has been featured in The New York Times, Cosmopolitan, and Global News. In this episode, Kavita shares her unique approach to helping men build confidence and find lasting love! Discover the challenges young men face in today’s dating world, the impact of digital spaces, and the importance of mindset shifts. Tune in for a conversation that promises to change your perspective on dating and relationships!  Exclusive for I Dare You Podcast listeners, to gain access to Kavita’s FREE Masterclass, go to @dashingdate and DM: “Darrin Johnson”   To connect with Kavita; www.dashingdate.com Instagram: @dashingdate   Connect with Darrin Johnson: www.idareyoupod.com Instagram: @idareyoupod YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@IDareYouPod

Johnny Joey Jones provides political commentary across Fox News media platforms, including Fox News Channel and Fox Business Network, and serves as a fill-in host for many popular shows. Joey also hosts several series and specials on Fox Nation, the network's digital streaming service. He authored the New York Times best-selling book, "Behind the Badge: Answering the Call to Serve on America's Homefront." A Marine Corps veteran who rose to staff sergeant, Joey experienced a life-changing injury in Afghanistan that resulted in the loss of both legs above the knee. Since recovering, he has devoted himself to improving the lives of veterans and their families. Exclusive for I Dare You Podcast listeners, be part of The Dare Club and get your FREE Atomic Habits visual synopsis, Atomic Habits worksheet, and Habit Tracker PDFs!  Simply go to: www.idareyoupod.com  Connect with Darrin Johnson: www.idareyoupod.com Instagram: @idareyoupod YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@IDareYouPod