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All It Takes Is A Goal
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All It Takes Is A Goal

Author: Jon Acuff

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Jon Acuff is the New York Times bestselling author of ten books, including his most recent, All it Takes is a Goal.


Published in dozens of languages, his work is both critically acclaimed and adored by readers. When he's not writing, Acuff can be found on a stage, as one of INC's Top 100 Leadership Speakers. He's spoken to hundreds of thousands of people at conferences, colleges and companies around the world including FedEx, Range Rover, Microsoft, Chick-fil-A, and Comedy Central. Known for his insights wrapped in humor, Acuff shared the stage with an American Icon when he opened up for Dolly Parton at the Ryman Auditorium.


Jon lives outside of Nashville, TN with his wife Jenny and two daughters.


205 Episodes
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Thanksgiving is practically designed for family debates, especially the kind that get sparked right as you’re reaching for the mashed potatoes. But this year, I’ve got one sentence that will change everything: “Politicians are temporary, family is forever.” In this episode, we’re talking about how to keep things calm, keep your cool, and maybe even enjoy the meal without ducking into the pantry for a pie break. Give it a listen, and let’s make this Thanksgiving one that’s memorable—in a good ...
I had an awesome conversation with my friend, Graham Cochrane, about goal-setting, career pivots, and discovering your unique purpose. We dove into the pressures we face, how to manage overthinking, and why it’s so important to pursue a life that aligns with who you really are. If you’re struggling with work-life balance, thinking about making a business shift, or just need help pushing past self-doubt, this episode is packed with practical insights you can use. Graham also shares some wisdom...
You've probably heard the classic quote, “You’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” But what does that really mean for your life? In this episode, I’ll break down why your circle isn’t just a group of friends—it’s a blueprint for who you’re becoming. I’ll share personal stories, like how running with friends unexpectedly made me faster and how the right people can level up every area of your life. Plus, I'll give you three super practical ways to put this concept in...
I have a prediction for you—2025 is going to be your Greatest Year Ever. You’re going to tackle those big goals, beat procrastination, perfectionism, and all the usual roadblocks, and it all starts now. In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how you can make that happen with my new 8-week challenge designed to help you start 2025 with a rock-solid mindset, a clear plan, and the tools to make success inevitable.If you’ve ever felt like you're stuck or unsure of how to take that next big st...
It’s the 200th episode of the podcast! I can’t believe we’ve reached this milestone together. In this episode, we’re talking about election stress and how to handle it. You know those anxious soundtracks that play on repeat in your head during election season? They’re exhausting, but they don’t have to control you. Today, I’m sharing 7 practical election soundtracks that will help you survive the stress, get more sleep, and stay focused on what really matters. From looking forward to the futu...
I don’t usually do breaking podcasts, but this story was too incredible not to share. My guest, David Jones, reached out with a story that perfectly ties into Soundtracks. When a hurricane hit western North Carolina, David faced a series of impossible obstacles trying to reach his daughter’s wedding. But he made it—on foot, through the devastation, determined to walk her down the aisle. In this episode, David shares his unbelievable journey and how the soundtracks he used helped him keep goin...
Have you ever felt like quitting? I have. And in this episode, we’re going to talk about two powerful ways to change how you feel when you’re at that breaking point. This is a lean-in episode, so I need you to lean in with me. I see something incredible in you—your potential, your joy, your success—even if you don’t see it yet. Together, we’ll explore how to turn those negative thoughts into ones that push you forward, not hold you back.And if you're ready to take this mindset shift to the ne...
In this episode, I’m diving into three big lies that I think are putting way too much pressure on Gen Z and Millennials—“Do it while you’re young,” “Don’t grow up, it’s a trap,” and the idea that you have to choose between joy and responsibility. I used to believe some of these myself, but now that I’m in my 40s, I’ve learned something better. You don’t have to choose between making memories and building a life you love. Join me as I share some personal stories, lessons I’ve learned, and why ...
In this episode, I’m sharing some of the meanest things my kids have ever said to me—and trust me, they’re hilarious. We’ll also dive into a common myth that makes parenting way harder than it has to be. If you’ve ever believed raising teens has to be a nightmare, I’m here to tell you it doesn’t. A simple mindset shift can change everything. And since we’re in the middle of a parenting season on the podcast, don’t forget to check out my brand new book How Teens Win, co-written with my two dau...
Does your teenager barely talk to you anymore? In this episode, I’ll not only explain why that happens, but also how to change it. I’ll share three soundtracks that make starting conversations with your kids easier, plus a personal story about dreaming big with my daughter. If you want to build stronger connections with your teens, check out my new book, How Teens Win, that I co-wrote with my daughters. It’s available now wherever books are sold!In This Episode:Sign up for my newsletter, Try ...
Have you ever wondered how teens can actually win at social media instead of just surviving it? In this episode, I’m sharing three key soundtracks that will help teens thrive online. From building a positive presence and setting healthy boundaries, to avoiding the comparison trap, I’ll give you practical tips to make sure social media is working for your teen, not against them. We’re in the middle of a big parenting season at the Acuff house! I’ve got a brand new book coming out that I wrote ...
In this episode, I’m giving you an exclusive sneak peek into our new book How Teens Win, which releases on September 10. First, I’ll read the intro to set the stage, and then my daughter LE will take over with the first chapter. It’s a little taste of the wisdom, laughs, and real-life advice we’ve packed into this book. Whether you’re a teen, parent, grandparent, teacher, or coach (or just someone who loves a good story), this episode is for you. Listen and hear why How Teens Win isn’t just a...
Ever feel like your brain is stuck in a loop of worries? In this episode, I’m sharing one simple trick that will help you worry less and accomplish more.Here’s how it started: On a Sunday afternoon, the number 5 kept bouncing around in my head. I needed to run 5 miles, but every part of me wanted to bail. My brain was pulling out all the stops to convince me not to do it. But instead of letting those worries win, I decided to flip the script.In this episode, I’ll show you how repeating a sing...
In this episode, I’m hanging out with my daughter McRae to chat about one of our family’s go-to topics: soundtracks. We’re digging into how the soundtracks in our heads help us set goals, dodge those unforced errors, and make life a little more fun. Whether it’s packing your lunch the night before or remembering to put your shoes on first (trust me, it’s a game-changer), we’ll share the stories and quirky lessons that have become the soundtracks we live by. And yes, we’ll even tackle why show...
In this episode, I dive into two powerful ways to change how you feel when you want to quit. Fear often targets those who dare to dream and it uses surprise and the "shouldn't feel this way" tactic to hold you back. I'll share my practical "If/Then" thinking and how repetition and relationships can help you push through fear. Learn to anticipate fear's tricks, prepare for them, and find the support you need to stay motivated. Don’t let fear dictate your journey—beat it with these essential to...
I still remember the first time I tried email in 1997. I thought it was terrible and wouldn’t catch on. Fast forward to today, and email has improved (and definitely caught on!) but remains a constant distraction.This year, I decided to tackle my inbox by limiting email checks to 30 focused minutes a day, five days a week. The results were transformative. I received fewer emails, realized I wasn’t as essential as I thought, and boosted my productivity, tripling my writing output. The discipli...
What did I learn from a 10-second interaction with a billionaire CEO? Join me for this episode, as I recount a pivotal moment with Dan Cathy, CEO of Chick-fil-A. Fourteen years ago, I had the privilege of working with Dan and learned invaluable lessons on leadership and humility. From taking out the trash to teaching a high school Sunday School class, Dan's actions demonstrated his commitment to serving others. True success lies in valuing human connections and being open to interruptions. Le...
Want to learn how to make your thoughts work for you, not against you? In this episode, I share my journey from skeptic to believer in the power of positive affirmations, visualization, and self-competition. It took me decades to figure this out, but now I’m here to show you three simple mindset tricks that can change your life. These practical tips have been game-changers for me and countless others. Tune in and discover how the road to great results always starts with great thoughts.Sign up...
What does it take to go from a small-town upbringing to coaching Fortune 500 executives and professional athletes? Join me as I sit down with Jordan Montgomery, owner of Montgomery Companies and author of The Art of Encouragement: How to Lead Teams, Spread Love, and Serve from the Heart. Jordan shares insights into his journey, emphasizing leadership lessons learned in the financial services industry and the role of authentic encouragement. We discuss balancing professional success with famil...
Have you ever wondered why some efforts pay off while others fall short? In this episode, I'm diving into a concept close to my heart: the Law of the Harvest. Over the past decade running my own business, writing books, and speaking at countless events, I've come to realize that this principle—reaping what you sow—holds true in every aspect of life. Whether it's nurturing relationships, building a business, or improving personal health, every effort we put in directly influences the results w...
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Comments (16)

D. S.L.2

Excellent episode! The How and Wow is brilliant. Will implement immediately.🙂

Feb 12th
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Christy Newland

succinct, easily implement able guides to forming resolutions that one can fulfill

Dec 31st
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Ed Breyer

Ian't wait for each Monday to listen to this podcast on my morning runs! BUT, (CAPITALISED FOR ATTENTION) you know what would be fabtaticoulsly and woderrificully full of the sauce that is awesomeness....??? That if there was a book list somewhere we can get our hands on that lists all the mount Rushmore Books recommended by each guest on the podcast. i always hear some great recommendations but by the time I'm done with my run I'm on to other things and before you know it all is lost..lol... I know I could go back and look at the details of each podcast but I always forget who it was that had it or which one recommend which book. I would be eternally and extrinsically full of the greatfull sauce if this mysteriously and wonderfully made an appearance in this world of existence of which we are currently undertaking it's conundrums. Thanks for your thoughtful considerations of these brain thingies I have delivered to you this day. spread the sauce...be the sauce.... :D Ed B

Nov 13th
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AV Whitby

This is gold! If you have a dream you need some goals. If you don't know about goals...this is the podcast to listen to! Thanks Jon for sharing!

Sep 21st
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Carmen Slaughter

this is my favorite episode so far!

Mar 28th
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Jennifer Stevens

this is by far and amazing and amazing podcast. The words of wisdom just exceed anything I thought about. Thank you so much Jon!

Mar 10th
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Carmen Slaughter

I have a challenge for you! You the person reading this. Listen to one episode a day for 30 days and apply the practical knowledge. It will change your life I know this because it has changed mine.

Feb 18th
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Ashley B

Blue Bell is totally the best ice cream, period.

Jan 22nd
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Martie DeKam

Big fan fan of Jon Acuff. So glad he decided to do a podcast.

Dec 15th
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Nicole Hanson

love this podcast!

Sep 30th
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ID18885248

Love this podcast.

Sep 25th
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Jennifer Stevens

the principles in this podcast are awesome!

Jun 9th
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Кирилл Иванов

Thank you Jon for this wonderful podcast! A great way to start the day while heading to work in the morning

May 27th
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Jennifer Stevens

love this PODCAST! JON YOU ROCK!

Apr 27th
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Andrea Fewkes

So funny...my husband is a custom knife maker!

Feb 18th
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Sharon Kelley

I'm so glad I came across this podcast. It's awesome.

Jan 28th
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