Brad Young CHANGE 2025

This is not a fringe topic reserved for documentaries about remote compounds. Echo chambers exist in online communities, political movements, wellness groups, financial circles, and social media feeds. They are subtle, they are sophisticated, and they are costing people their money, their health, and their freedom of thought. By the end of this episode, my goal is that you walk away with practical tools — rooted in the CHANGE framework — to begin challenging the narratives that may be holding you back from your fullest, most expansive life.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Seek out the original 1999 paper by David Dunning and Justin Kruger titled Unskilled and Unaware of It, published in the Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. It is more nuanced and more interesting than most popular summaries suggest. David Dunning's subsequent writing on self-insight is also deeply worth your time.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Before we explore how CHANGE interacts with Aristotelian philosophy, we need to understand what Aristotelianism truly represents. Aristotle believed that every human being has a unique purpose, what he called telos—an ultimate end or goal. For humans, this telos is eudaimonia, often translated as happiness or flourishing, but more accurately understood as living in accordance with virtue and reason. Aristotle did not see happiness as a fleeting emotion or a destination you arrive at. Instead, he viewed it as a way of being, cultivated through consistent virtuous action and rational thought.Central to Aristotelian thought is the concept of virtue ethics. Unlike rule-based moral systems, virtue ethics focuses on developing character. Aristotle identified virtues as the golden mean between extremes—courage sits between cowardice and recklessness, generosity between stinginess and wastefulness. These virtues are not innate gifts but are developed through practice, repetition, and habituation. This is where Aristotelianism becomes incredibly practical: excellence is not something you are born with, it is something you build through deliberate action over time.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The beauty of Taoism lies in its simplicity and its profound recognition of the natural order of things. The Tao, often translated as the Way, is not something we can fully capture in words. It is the underlying current of existence, the force that moves water downhill, that turns seeds into trees, that guides the seasons in their eternal dance. And yet, while the Tao itself remains mysterious, the principles of Taoist living offer us remarkably practical wisdom for our modern lives.Throughout this episode, we will explore how the six pillars of CHANGE, communication, habits, attitude, network, goals, and education, can be transformed when we align them with Taoist principles. This is not about adding more complexity to your life. Quite the opposite. It is about discovering how simplicity, flow, and harmony can make your transformation journey not only more effective but also more joyful and sustainable. Think of this as a conversation between the ancient and the modern, between doing and being, between striving and allowing.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Today we're exploring something truly powerful: how the timeless philosophy of utilitarianism can transform your life when combined with the CHANGE framework. Utilitarianism teaches us to pursue actions that create the greatest happiness and well-being for the greatest number of people. But how do we actually live this principle in our daily lives? That's where CHANGE comes in: Communication, Habits, Attitude, Network, Goals, and Education. Together, these create a roadmap for not just understanding ethical philosophy, but actually embodying it in ways that make your life and the lives of those around you measurably better. This isn't just theory, this is a practical guide to becoming someone who genuinely contributes to collective well-being while building a life of purpose and fulfillment.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Understanding Confucianism: More Than Ancient HistoryConfucianism emerged over two thousand five hundred years ago through the teachings of Confucius, a Chinese philosopher who believed that human beings could achieve moral excellence through cultivation and practice. At its core, Confucianism isn't a religion in the traditional sense—it's a comprehensive ethical system focused on how we relate to one another and how we develop our character.The philosophy centers on several key concepts: ren, which means humaneness or benevolence; li, referring to proper conduct and ritual; xiao, or filial piety; and junzi, the ideal of the noble person who embodies virtue. Confucius believed that when individuals cultivate these qualities, society naturally becomes harmonious. He taught that we aren't born perfect, but through education, reflection, and consistent practice, we can become better versions of ourselves.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Minimalism has captured the cultural imagination in recent years, but it is often misunderstood as simply owning fewer things or maintaining pristine white spaces. True minimalism runs much deeper. It is a deliberate practice of removing excess to create space for what genuinely matters in your life. When you strip away the noise, the clutter, and the constant accumulation that society pushes on us, you discover something profound: clarity.This clarity is not accidental. It emerges from intentional choices about what deserves your attention, your resources, and your energy. Minimalism asks you to question every possession, every commitment, and every habit. Does this add value to my life? Does this serve my highest priorities? Does this bring me closer to the person I want to become? These questions form the foundation of a minimalist mindset, and they align perfectly with the principles of intentional change.The beauty of minimalism lies in its flexibility. For one person, it might mean owning only one hundred items. For another, it might mean having a home full of meaningful objects that each tell a story. The external expression varies, but the internal philosophy remains consistent: live deliberately, choose consciously, and create space for what matters most. This is where the CHANGE framework becomes invaluable, providing structure to transform minimalist aspirations into sustainable reality.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Existentialism stands as one of the most empowering philosophies ever conceived. At its core, it proclaims a profound truth: you are radically free, and with that freedom comes the responsibility to create your own meaning. There is no predetermined script for your life, no cosmic instruction manual telling you who to be or what to value. This can feel terrifying and liberating simultaneously.Philosophers like Jean-Paul Sartre, Simone de Beauvoir, and Albert Camus explored this terrain deeply. They argued that existence precedes essence, meaning you are not born with a fixed nature or purpose. Instead, you define yourself through your choices and actions. Every decision you make, every path you take, is an act of self-creation. You are constantly becoming who you are.But here is where many people struggle. This absolute freedom can lead to what existentialists call angst or existential anxiety. When everything is possible and nothing is predetermined, how do you choose? What gives your life meaning when traditional authorities and inherited beliefs no longer provide clear answers? This is precisely where the CHANGE framework becomes your compass.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Imagine standing at the crossroads where the disciplined ethics of feudal Japan meet the dynamic challenges of contemporary life. This is not merely an academic exercise—it is a practical framework for those who refuse to settle for mediocrity. The Samurai did not simply wield swords; they cultivated minds, refined character, and lived by an uncompromising code called Bushido. Today, we face different battles: career transitions, personal growth plateaus, relationship challenges, and the relentless pace of technological change.The CHANGE framework—Communication, Habits, Attitude, Network, Goals, and Education—provides the tactical blueprint for transformation in our modern world. But tactics without ethics can lead us astray. This is where Bushido enters, offering seven core virtues that anchor our transformation in honor, courage, and wisdom. When we weave these ancient principles into our modern strategies, we create something extraordinary: a warrior's path to lasting change.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Setting clear and actionable goals is the foundation of achieving your vision for the future. Think of goals as YOUR ROADMAP—helping you navigate challenges and keeping your focus sharp on what truly matters. What do YOU want to achieve? Whether it’s growing your business, mastering a new skill, or stepping into a better version of yourself, defining priorities is key. Align them with your short-term wins and long-term dreams to create a path that’s uniquely yours.Every small step forward? That’s PROGRESS. Clear goals give you the structure to stay motivated and the determination to turn ambition into reality. Remember, YOU hold the power to shape your future. So, what’s your next step?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Building a strong network is about more than just collecting contacts—it’s about creating REAL, MEANINGFUL connections that truly matter. It starts with INTENTION—your purpose—and a genuine commitment to building relationships that last. Networking isn’t just about reaching out when YOU need something; it’s about SHOWING UP, sharing value, and building TRUST. Ask yourself: What can YOU bring to the table? Share your knowledge freely. Offer support without expectation. The best networks are built on RECIPROCITY, AUTHENTICITY, and TRUST.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Are you ready to embrace a change that could completely reshape your world? Harnessing the power of a positive attitude isn't just a feel-good idea—it's a practical and powerful catalyst for transformation. With every thought you think and every action you take, YOU hold the potential to unlock new opportunities, overcome deeply rooted challenges, and consciously create the life you’ve always envisioned. Let’s take this journey together, step by step, because the power to thrive starts with a simple, conscious choice: positivity.A positive attitude is your secret weapon—a powerful tool to CREATE the life you envision, not just react to it. It shapes how YOU navigate daily situations, from minor annoyances to major life decisions. It's the filter through which you tackle challenges and connect with those around you. Positivity doesn’t mean ignoring struggles or pretending problems don't exist; it’s about having the strength to find the hidden lessons, the opportunities for growth, and the flicker of light even in the toughest moments. By intentionally cultivating habits that support an optimistic mindset, YOU unlock a version of yourself that is more resilient, more creative, and capable of truly incredible things.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What drives success? It’s not luck or magic—it’s habits. These small, consistent actions shape your outcomes daily.Think about this: What habits are you cultivating? Are they leading you closer to the life you want, or holding you back? The truth is, your habits either propel you forward or keep you running in place. The best part? You have the power to change them.In today's episode, we’ll explore how habits are formed and, more importantly, how you can take control. We'll discuss the science, stories, and strategies to build habits that work for you. Success isn't just for a lucky few—it's built by all of us, one habit at a time.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Effective communication is a fundamental skill that can transform personal relationships and professional careers. In this episode, we explore the common barriers to clear communication and provide actionable strategies to overcome them. Whether you're navigating workplace dynamics, strengthening your leadership presence, or seeking to improve collaboration within your team, this discussion offers valuable insights to help you foster understanding, clarity, and connection. Tune in to unlock the tools needed to bridge gaps, avoid misunderstandings, and build stronger, more meaningful interactions in every area of your life.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

I believe wholeheartedly in growth and the transformative power of CHANGE. Over the years, I’ve learned that stepping into change—especially when it feels uncomfortable—can unlock doors to a better, more purposeful life. It’s not about rushing toward perfection; it’s about progress, however small. My passion is helping others grow while continuing to evolve myself. It’s a cycle—when you grow, you inspire those around you, and in turn, their growth fuels your own.I’ll be honest—it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. I’ve stumbled more times than I can count, failed at things I thought I’d succeed in, and fallen when I least expected it. But here’s the thing: every setback, every moment of doubt, has taught me something valuable. Each misstep has made me stronger, wiser, and more resilient. I’ve come to realize that growth isn’t just about the big leaps; it’s about the small, consistent steps we take each day.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Have you ever felt that unmistakable pull to do something more? A quiet, persistent desire to leave a mark not just on your career or your bank account, but on the fabric of the world itself? It’s a deep, fundamentally human calling to contribute, to matter, to be part of something bigger and more lasting than ourselves. We all see the world's immense challenges—in our own communities, in the news, and on a global scale—and we often feel a paralyzing mix of profound empathy and overwhelming helplessness. We want to help, but the problems seem so massive, so entrenched. Where can one person even begin?You begin with YOU.Making the world a better place is not a grand, solitary act performed by a single hero saving everyone. It is the cumulative effect of millions of people making a conscious, daily choice to become a force for good within their own unique sphere of influence. It starts with the profound decision to transform yourself into someone capable of creating positive ripples that spread outward. The most powerful tool for this transformation isn't found in your bank account or your job title; it is a system for personal and collective growth.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Have you ever stood in the middle of your own life and felt… completely and utterly lost? It’s a profound feeling, like the solid ground beneath you has shifted without warning. Maybe a career you poured decades of your soul into suddenly ended, leaving a void where your identity used to be. Maybe a relationship that was your anchor crumbled, or perhaps you simply woke up one day, looked in the mirror, and realized you’ve drifted so far from shore that you can no longer recognize the person staring back at you.In these defining moments, a dangerous and subtle form of amnesia sets in. We forget.We forget the seemingly insurmountable mountains we’ve already climbed. We forget the fires of adversity we’ve walked through, emerging stronger on the other side. Most importantly, we forget the immense, powerful arsenal of skills and abilities we carry deep within us. When life knocks us down, it has a cunning way of convincing us that we are empty-handed, that our reserves are depleted. But let me be clear: you are not empty-handed. You are simply looking at your vast inventory through a cracked and distorted lens.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Have you ever looked at your life and felt a powerful urge for something more? A desire not just for a small tweak, but for a fundamental, positive transformation? You can see the person you want to become—more confident, more successful, more fulfilled—but the path from here to there feels overwhelming, like a vast, uncharted territory. We often believe that achieving our biggest goals requires a single moment of massive change, a lightning strike of luck or inspiration.But what if real, lasting change isn't an earthquake? What if it's the steady, daily practice of building a better future, brick by brick? What if you had a system, a blueprint, that could guide you through the process of transformation, ensuring that every small action you take moves you closer to your biggest goals?See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

There are voices that speak, and then there are voices that detonate, shaking you to your core. David Goggins is one of those voices—a detonation of raw truth and relentless drive. His story is not just another tale of personal transformation; it’s a visceral, unfiltered testament to the extreme possibilities of human potential. Goggins took himself from being an unhappy, nearly 300-pound man working a dead-end job to becoming a decorated Navy SEAL, an elite ultramarathon runner, and a world-record holder. His journey wasn’t handed to him; it was forged through grit, pain, and the refusal to settle for anything less than excellence. His philosophy isn’t about gentle encouragement or motivational platitudes. It’s a war cry against mediocrity, a call to face your deepest fears and demons head-on, and a demand that you hold yourself accountable to an unbreakable standard. It’s not just about pushing harder—it’s about rewriting your narrative and embracing the discomfort that’s necessary for growth.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Have you ever felt a deep, persistent desire to be better? Not just in one area, like your career or your health, but better as a whole—more fulfilled, more capable, more aligned with your potential? It’s that feeling of untapped possibilities, a quiet but steady voice that whispers, There’s more. This innate desire for growth and continuous improvement is one of the most powerful forces driving human development. It’s the engine that propels us forward, shaping who we are today into who we’re capable of becoming tomorrow.But how do you take control of this force? The path to self-improvement can feel chaotic, overwhelming, or even discouraging at times. You might start a new diet, dive into a self-help book, or set an ambitious goal, only to find that your motivation fades, leaving you right back where you started. The issue isn’t a lack of desire—you want to be better. The problem lies in the absence of a clear, sustainable system to guide your efforts.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.