The Fio Bros Podcast

What if the reason you’re unhappy is just bad math? Today’s guest, Mo Gawdat (former Chief Business Officer at Google X and bestselling author of Solve for Happy), breaks down the real equation of happiness—and why your brain is actually wired against it.After losing his son, Mo turned his engineer’s mind to life’s biggest problem: how to find peace and joy no matter what life throws at you. In this episode, he shares the formula, the mindset shifts, and the practices that can change everything.In this episode, you’ll learn:✅ Why happiness = events – expectations✅ How to reprogram your brain to stop sabotaging you✅ The surprising gift inside your toughest struggles✅ Why pain ≠ suffering—and how to separate the two⏰ TIMESTAMPS0:00 Intro1:05 The Happiness Equation Explained8:55 Why Your Brain Works Against You13:37 How Mo Found Peace After Losing His Son19:42 Pain vs. Suffering29:00 Why Mo Calls His Brain “Becky”36:45 Dopamine vs. True Happiness45:50 The Eraser Test (Life-Changing Exercise)56:20 Turning Rock Bottom into Fuel1:02:07 Mo’s 3 Steps for Anyone Feeling Stuck🧘 FREE MEDITATION COURSELearn to meditate in 5 days, 100% free: fiobros.com/meditate🎙️ PODCAST LINKSSpotify: https://urlgeni.us/spotify/fiobrospodcastApple Podcasts: https://urlgeni.us/applepodcast/fiobrospodcast📖 LEARN MORE ABOUT MOMo’s Book: https://urlgeni.us/amzn/solveforhappyMo’s Website: https://www.mogawdat.comMo’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/mogawdat/📱 FOLLOW US ON IGinstagram.com/fiobros

In this episode, we break down how to stop comparing yourself to others and start feeling good in your own lane. You’ll learn three simple reframes that flip jealousy into possibility, competition into progress, and scarcity into abundance. From seeing Stephen Bartlett as a teacher instead of a rival, to focusing on your Day 100 not someone else’s Day 1000, to realizing another person’s success doesn’t dim your flame—the big takeaway is this: your only scorecard is how much better you are than yesterday.⏰ TIMESTAMPS00:00 Why comparison makes you feel worse, not better00:47 The jealousy → possibility reframe08:13 Social media, highlight reels, and the truth behind success15:29 Why abundance beats scarcity every time22:45 The 1% better call-to-action🎙️ PODCAST LINKSSpotify: https://urlgeni.us/spotify/fiobrospodcastApple Podcasts: https://urlgeni.us/applepodcast/fiobrospodcast🧘 FREE MEDITATION COURSELearn to meditate in 5 days, 100% free: fiobros.com/meditate📱 FOLLOW US ON IGinstagram.com/fiobros

In this episode, we break down the 3 biggest mistakes that secretly make your anxiety worse and show you simple fixes you can use today. You’ll learn how to stop replaying arguments in your head, quit turning small problems into the end of the world, and stop beating yourself up when you’re already down. From Godfather scenes to YouTube flops to lemon juice on a cut, we keep it real and practical—so you can finally deal with anxiety instead of letting it run the show.⏰ TIMESTAMPS00:00 Why your anxiety won’t go away00:47 Mistake #1: Rumination (and how to stop it)08:13 Mistake #2: Catastrophizing (worst-case thinking)15:29 Mistake #3: Self-criticism (the hidden energy drain)22:45 The one thing you must do to get better🎙️ PODCAST LINKSSpotify: https://urlgeni.us/spotify/fiobrospodcastApple Podcasts: https://urlgeni.us/applepodcast/fiobrospodcast🧘 FREE MEDITATION COURSELearn to meditate in 5 days, 100% free: fiobros.com/meditate📱 FOLLOW US ON IGinstagram.com/fiobros

In this episode, we break down how to build real confidence even when you feel like the underdog. You’ll learn how to flip self-doubt into self-belief with simple mental shifts anyone can use. From the paddle ball player who went from last place to unstoppable, to Navy SEAL self-talk hacks, to Federer winning while losing nearly half his points—you’ll see why confidence isn’t about evidence, it’s about what you tell yourself. Big takeaway: your words hard-code your identity, so choose them wisely.⏰ TIMESTAMPS00:00 How to feel untouchable in any room00:47 The paddle ball story that rewrites confidence08:13 Federer, failure, and why losing doesn’t kill winners15:29 Navy SEAL hacks for unstoppable self-talk22:45 The “I am” identity trick you can start using today🎙️ PODCAST LINKSSpotify: https://urlgeni.us/spotify/fiobrospodcastApple Podcasts: https://urlgeni.us/applepodcast/fiobrospodcast🧘 FREE MEDITATION COURSELearn to meditate in 5 days, 100% free: fiobros.com/meditate📱 FOLLOW US ON IGinstagram.com/fiobros

In this episode, we show you how one weird mental trick can pull you out of a dark spiral fast. You’ll learn how to stop fighting tough seasons and actually ride them out. By seeing life as waves that rise and fall, you’ll stress less at work, fight less at home, and handle big changes without losing your mind. We talk about venting without needing a fix, the Daoist quote that hit at the right time, and the farmer’s “maybe, we’ll see” story—big takeaway: nothing is permanent, and this chapter will pass.⏰ TIMESTAMPS00:00 When life keeps punching you in the face00:47 The simple trick that shifts everything08:13 The farmer’s story of “maybe, we’ll see”15:29 How to name the chapter you’re in22:45 The big reminder: this too shall pass🎙️ PODCAST LINKSSpotify: https://urlgeni.us/spotify/fiobrospodcastApple Podcasts: https://urlgeni.us/applepodcast/fiobrospodcast🧘 FREE MEDITATION COURSELearn to meditate in 5 days, 100% free: fiobros.com/meditate📱 FOLLOW US ON IGinstagram.com/fiobros

In this episode, we show why chasing big breakthroughs keeps you stuck—and how tiny 1% tweaks can change everything. You’ll learn why sweating the small stuff leads to compounding wins in health, work, and relationships. From Stephen Bartlett using a walkout song to unlock UFC champ Israel Adesanya, to boosting subscribers with a 10-second edit, to using CO₂ monitors for sharper thinking—the big takeaway is simple: stop hunting for the “one big fix” and start stacking small, smart moves.⏰ TIMESTAMPS00:00 Why most self-help advice is wrong00:47 Stephen Bartlett’s 1% rule explained08:13 The Adesanya walkout song story15:29 The 10-second tweak that tripled subscribers22:45 How to spot your own 1% change🎙️ PODCAST LINKSSpotify: https://urlgeni.us/spotify/fiobrospodcastApple Podcasts: https://urlgeni.us/applepodcast/fiobrospodcast🧘 FREE MEDITATION COURSELearn to meditate in 5 days, 100% free: fiobros.com/meditate📱 FOLLOW US ON IGinstagram.com/fiobros

In this episode, we flip the “same old day” feeling into proof that today is actually the best day of your life. You’ll learn how to spot everyday wins you’ve been blind to and turn boredom into gratitude. From realizing clean water puts you ahead of 2 billion people, to remembering a phone call with your parents is something others would kill for, to not being one of the 3,700 who die in car crashes today—this one’s a reminder that being alive is already enough.⏰ TIMESTAMPS00:00 Why every day feels the same (and how to break it)00:47 The gratitude hack that rewires boredom08:13 Stats that make you see your routine differently15:29 The Marcus Aurelius reminder you need in the morning22:45 Challenge: catch complaints and flip them into gratitude🎙️ PODCAST LINKSSpotify: https://urlgeni.us/spotify/fiobrospodcastApple Podcasts: https://urlgeni.us/applepodcast/fiobrospodcast🧘 FREE MEDITATION COURSELearn to meditate in 5 days, 100% free: fiobros.com/meditate📱 FOLLOW US ON IGinstagram.com/fiobros

In this episode, we show you how to stop getting bullied by your own negative thoughts by giving your brain a name. You’ll learn a simple way to step back from the noise in your head and actually talk to it instead of being crushed by it. From Mo Gawdat naming his brain “Becky” after losing his son, to Mike calling his brain “Bobby,” to using Buddhist tricks like meeting thoughts at the porch, the big takeaway is clear: you are not your thoughts, and you don’t have to let them run your life.⏰ TIMESTAMPS00:00 Outsmarting negative thoughts with one simple trick00:47 Mo Gawdat’s story of loss and naming his brain “Becky”08:13 How Mike turned his anxious brain into “Bobby”15:29 The Buddhist “meet it at the porch” method22:45 What are you going to name your brain?🎙️ PODCAST LINKSSpotify: https://urlgeni.us/spotify/fiobrospodcastApple Podcasts: https://urlgeni.us/applepodcast/fiobrospodcast🧘 FREE MEDITATION COURSELearn to meditate in 5 days, 100% free: fiobros.com/meditate📱 FOLLOW US ON IGinstagram.com/fiobros

In this episode, we show you how to stop letting other people’s anger mess with your peace. You’ll learn how to drop the “gift” of someone else’s bad mood before it sticks. From Buddha’s story of refusing insults, to a dad on a bus hiding deep grief, to dealing with gossip and rude coworkers, this one’s about protecting your energy. The big takeaway: other people’s anger says more about them than you—so why carry it?⏰ TIMESTAMPS00:00 How to stop letting people piss you off00:47 Buddha’s gangster lesson on anger08:13 The bus story that changes everything15:29 When gossip hits close to home22:45 How to drop the gift and stay Teflon🎙️ PODCAST LINKSSpotify: https://urlgeni.us/spotify/fiobrospodcastApple Podcasts: https://urlgeni.us/applepodcast/fiobrospodcast🧘 FREE MEDITATION COURSELearn to meditate in 5 days, 100% free: fiobros.com/meditate📱 FOLLOW US ON IGinstagram.com/fiobros

In this episode, we break down a simple happiness equation so you never stay stuck feeling unhappy again. You’ll learn how lowering expectations and adjusting how you see life’s events creates lasting peace in daily life, from traffic jams to tough conversations. We share Mo Gawdat’s car crash story, Marcus Aurelius preparing for annoying people, and even how long commutes can turn into wins—the big takeaway: happiness isn’t about life going perfect, it’s about expecting challenges and choosing how you see them.⏰ TIMESTAMPS00:00 The simple equation for happiness00:47 Why expectations control how happy you feel08:13 Mo Gawdat’s car crash story15:29 Stoic wisdom: expect challenges22:45 CTA: practice daily premeditation of setbacks🎙️ PODCAST LINKSSpotify: https://urlgeni.us/spotify/fiobrospodcastApple Podcasts: https://urlgeni.us/applepodcast/fiobrospodcast🧘 FREE MEDITATION COURSELearn to meditate in 5 days, 100% free: fiobros.com/meditate📱 FOLLOW US ON IGinstagram.com/fiobros

In this episode, we fix the trap of chasing goals that leave you drained by showing you how to swap outcome goals for input goals. You’ll learn how focusing on what you can control makes progress feel lighter and actually stick. From checking YouTube stats on autopilot, to Nick Saban telling his team to ignore the scoreboard, to why daily weigh-ins kill motivation, we show how real wins come from effort, not constant measuring. The big takeaway: stop checking the scoreboard—just play the next play.⏰ TIMESTAMPS00:00 Why your goals might be making you miserable00:47 The hidden trap of chasing results08:13 Nick Saban’s scoreboard lesson15:29 How to turn outcome goals into input goals22:45 Trust the process and love the day-to-day🎙️ PODCAST LINKSSpotify: https://urlgeni.us/spotify/fiobrospodcastApple Podcasts: https://urlgeni.us/applepodcast/fiobrospodcast🧘 FREE MEDITATION COURSELearn to meditate in 5 days, 100% free: fiobros.com/meditate📱 FOLLOW US ON IGinstagram.com/fiobros

In this episode, we show you how to stop running yourself into the ground by using rest the same way the top 1% do. You’ll learn why short breaks, weekends off, and real downtime actually help you get more done without burning out. From LeBron James spending a million a year on recovery, to Winston Churchill’s daily naps, to Bill Gates disappearing for “think weeks,” this episode proves that rest isn’t lost time—it’s the tool that keeps you in the game long enough to win.⏰ TIMESTAMPS00:00 Why the top 1% never burn out00:47 The truth about adenosine and caffeine08:13 Mike’s weekend breakdown moment15:29 How elites use rest as a weapon22:45 Call to action: plan your recharge🧘 FREE MEDITATION COURSELearn to meditate in 5 days, 100% free: fiobros.com/meditate📱 FOLLOW US ON IGinstagram.com/fiobros

In this episode, we face the hard truth that tomorrow isn’t promised and show how to love people while you still can. You’ll learn why the smallest words—“I love you”—become the biggest when life gets fragile. From hearing a 9/11 passenger’s final voicemail, to visiting the NYC memorial filled with last messages, to sharing our own brother-to-brother “I love you,” the lesson is clear: don’t wait. Say it now, while you still have breath.⏰ TIMESTAMPS00:00 Life is fragile: why this episode matters00:47 The final words from Flight 17508:13 What we saw at the 9/11 Museum15:29 Why death can be life’s greatest teacher22:45 Challenge: tell someone you love them today🧘 FREE MEDITATION COURSELearn to meditate in 5 days, 100% free: fiobros.com/meditate📱 FOLLOW US ON IGinstagram.com/fiobros

In this episode, we break down why you always feel drained and how to spot the people who quietly suck the life out of you. You’ll learn simple ways to protect your energy so you can show up better at work, in relationships, and for yourself. From jealous friends who hate your wins, to manipulators who “give to take,” to the study showing how your crew shapes your habits—this is about cutting out parasites and keeping your circle strong.⏰ TIMESTAMPS00:00 Why you always feel drained (the real reason)00:47 Parasites in your life explained08:13 The 4 types: jealous, complainer, manipulator, taker15:29 Science proves your friends shape your future22:45 Boundaries + final challenge🧘 FREE MEDITATION COURSELearn to meditate in 5 days, 100% free: fiobros.com/meditate📱 FOLLOW US ON IGinstagram.com/fiobros

In this episode, we break the trap of never feeling enough by showing you how to feel proud of yourself right now. You’ll learn a simple way to flip comparison on its head and actually see your growth. From looking at old photos, to realizing why dopamine keeps you chasing “more,” to spotting real progress in small daily wins—this episode is your reminder that you’re already further than you think. The big takeaway: stop chasing the future “you” and start giving credit to the one who got you here.⏰ TIMESTAMPS00:00 How to stop chasing and start feeling enough00:47 Why comparing to your past beats comparing to others08:13 The dopamine trap and hedonic treadmill explained15:29 The 1% better rule: progress that actually sticks22:45 Daily reminder to be proud of how far you’ve come🧘 FREE MEDITATION COURSELearn to meditate in 5 days, 100% free: fiobros.com/meditate📱 FOLLOW US ON IGinstagram.com/fiobros

In this episode, we break down how tiny daily choices can either wreck your life or help you hit your wildest goals. You’ll learn how to use simple habits to stack wins in health, money, and happiness without burning out. From the penny-doubles example that blows kids’ minds, to Jerry Seinfeld’s one-joke-a-day trick, to why eating McDonald’s every week adds up fast—the big takeaway is this: your future is built one small decision at a time.⏰ TIMESTAMPS00:00 Why small choices decide your future00:47 The book that changed everything08:13 The compound effect in real life15:29 Jerry Seinfeld’s “don’t break the chain” trick22:45 One challenge to start today🧘 FREE MEDITATION COURSELearn to meditate in 5 days, 100% free: fiobros.com/meditate📱 FOLLOW US ON IGinstagram.com/fiobros

In this episode, we show how to turn stress and overthinking into instant confidence with one simple move: smiling. You’ll learn why a smile makes you more attractive, trustworthy, and magnetic—without trying. From a random run-in with a toothless stranger, to the science of mirror neurons, to why Richard Branson built an empire while grinning, the big takeaway is this: your smile is free, contagious, and the fastest way to change your energy and everyone else’s.⏰ TIMESTAMPS00:00 How smiling changes your mood instantly00:47 The weird stranger encounter that proved the point08:13 Mirror neurons: why we copy each other without thinking15:29 Why smiling makes you more attractive than makeup22:45 Call to action: get someone else to smile today🧘 FREE MEDITATION COURSELearn to meditate in 5 days, 100% free: fiobros.com/meditate📱 FOLLOW US ON IGinstagram.com/fiobros

In this episode, we show you how to be 10x happier without forcing fake smiles or grinding through “self-help.” You’ll learn how to rewire your brain by simply choosing what you feed it. The guys break down why happiness isn’t just “genetics,” how swapping doomscrolling for gratitude plants better seeds, and why cutting toxic people out can be the ultimate brain hack. Big picture: your mind’s a garden—pull the weeds, plant the good stuff, and watch it grow.⏰ TIMESTAMPS00:00 How to be 10x happier with zero effort00:47 Your mind is a garden: seeds, weeds, and daily habits08:13 Rewiring your brain like a computer15:29 The call to action: rip out the weeds22:45 Closing thought on guarding your mind🧘 FREE MEDITATION COURSELearn to meditate in 5 days, 100% free: fiobros.com/meditate📱 FOLLOW US ON IGinstagram.com/fiobros

In this episode, we show you how one simple question can flip your whole life in a single day. You’ll learn how to spot the thing you’ve been avoiding and finally do something about it. From quitting a soul-crushing job, to ending a toxic relationship, to just getting your health back on track—this is about facing the hard truth you already know deep down. The big takeaway? The pain doesn’t break you—it makes you the hero of your own story.⏰ TIMESTAMPS00:00 The one question that changes everything00:47 Why your brain hides hard truths from you08:13 Quitting jobs, breakups, and the pain of tough choices15:29 Choosing your “hard” and why it sets you free22:45 The call to action that rewrites your story🧘 FREE MEDITATION COURSELearn to meditate in 5 days, 100% free: fiobros.com/meditate📱 FOLLOW US ON IGinstagram.com/fiobros

In this episode, we show you how to shut down anxiety the moment it hits. You’ll learn a dead-simple three-step method you can use anytime stress shows up. These steps work whether it’s panic-level dry heaving, your heart racing after a bad email, or that low-key buzzing worry you can’t shake. From taking a quick walk, to using the 4-7-8 breathing trick, to journaling your way through a tough thought, you’ll see how to move from fight-or-flight back to calm clarity.⏰ TIMESTAMPS00:00 Why anxiety feels like a broken alarm system00:47 The 3-step method to kill anxiety fast08:13 The Coke bottle analogy for stress release15:29 The 4-7-8 breathing technique explained22:45 How to use journaling to clear your head🧘 FREE MEDITATION COURSELearn to meditate in 5 days, 100% free: fiobros.com/meditate📱 FOLLOW US ON IGinstagram.com/fiobros