Quest for Success

What if one paycheck isn’t enough, not because you’re greedy, but because life is unpredictable? In this powerful episode of the Quest for Success podcast, psychologist and author Dr. Jerry Cunningham unpacks the mindset and strategy behind building multiple streams of income, without quitting your job or sacrificing your sanity. You’ll learn why relying on a single source of income is financially risky, what the average millionaire does differently, and how regular people (yes, people just like you) can begin adding scalable, sustainable income streams starting right now. From Shark Tank insights to Will Smith’s Pursuit of Happyness and a few Missouri lemonade stand legends, this episode blends practical psychology, business wisdom, and real-world grit. Whether you’re new to the concept or looking to grow your current side hustle into something greater, this episode will challenge, encourage, and equip you to move from surviving to designing your financial future. Tap play now and begin your quest. Visit www.Quest-Success.com for resources and updates. Books by Dr. Jerry Cunningham available on Amazon—just search his name to grab your copy today.   SOURCES FOR FURTHER STUDY Robert G. Allen – Multiple Streams of Income: How to Generate a Lifetime of Unlimited Wealth Bankrate Side Hustle Survey (2023) Bandura, A. – Self-Efficacy: The Exercise of Control U.S. Chamber of Commerce Report: The Side Hustle Economy Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs (from Motivation and Personality, 1954) CNBC: "How Passive Income Changed My Life" – various case studies

What happens when a man dares to explore the depths of the human mind, not to conquer it, but to understand it? In this Legacy Behind the Legend mini-episode, Dr. Jerry Cunningham, psychologist and author of the Quest for Success series, tells the story of a quiet boy named Carl, whose obsession with dreams, symbols, and the shadow side of human nature changed how we think about thinking. This isn’t just a history lesson. It’s a guided journey into one of the greatest minds in psychology and what you can learn from his courage, insight, and inner battles. You’ll walk away with a fresh perspective on personal growth, self-awareness, and what it really means to succeed mentally. Dr. Cunningham entitled his first fiction book, Shadow of the Mind, because of the influence of this Legend.  Want to explore more? Man and His Symbols The Undiscovered Self Owning Your Own Shadow by Robert A. Johnson The Archetypes and the Collective Unconscious Integral Psychology by Ken Wilber

Ever feel like the world is just too loud to hear anything meaningful—let alone God’s voice? In this episode of the Quest for Success podcast, Dr. Jerry Cunningham, psychologist and best-selling author of the Quest for Success series, takes you on a personal and practical journey into the heart of spiritual clarity. Whether you’re a leader in the workplace, a parent trying to stay patient, or simply someone looking for direction in a noisy, fast-paced culture—this conversation is for you. You’ll discover the surprising science behind how our brains process thousands of thoughts each day, why most of them are working against your spiritual focus, and how intentional prayer rewires the parts of your brain tied to empathy, emotional regulation, and wisdom. Drawing from both scripture and neuroscience, Dr. Cunningham reveals the link between cognitive overload and spiritual disconnect—and more importantly, how to fix it. You’ll hear powerful lessons from the contrasting lives of Billy Graham and Jimmy Swaggart—two men who both preached to millions but lived with drastically different levels of peace and clarity. Plus, Dr. Cunningham shares a vulnerable and humorous story from his own life about praying for a godly woman… and the surprising, unforgettable way God responded in a parking lot in Blytheville, Arkansas. This episode is more than inspirational—it’s actionable. You’ll walk away with real tools to help you: Start your day with clarity and leadership Create quiet spaces where God’s whispers can be heard Pray bold, outrageous prayers without holding back Lead your family, workplace, and social life with spiritual focus Whether you’re new to prayer or looking to go deeper in your spiritual journey, this episode offers a fresh reminder: God is still speaking—you just have to get quiet enough to hear.   Additional Sources You Can Use for Further Study Pew Research Center – “Religious Landscape Study” https://www.pewresearch.org/religion/religious-landscape-study/ Dr. Andrew Newberg – How God Changes Your Brain (On neuroscience of prayer and meditation) 1 Kings 19:11-13 – Elijah and the still small voice John Mark Comer – The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry (Modern chaos, silence, and spiritual hearing) “The Billy Graham Rule” – Interview archives and biographies Psychology Today – Articles on mindfulness and cognitive overload https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/mindfulness

We’ve all been tempted to cut corners—whether it’s at the gym, in a relationship, or on the job. But what if every shortcut you take is silently robbing you of the very success you're chasing? In this eye-opening episode of Quest for Success, Dr. Jerry Cunningham—psychologist, speaker, and best-selling author of the Quest for Success book series—pulls back the curtain on what really happens when you fake the grind. Through powerful stories, surprising psychology, and even a few movie references (yes, Two-Face makes an appearance), you'll discover why small compromises turn into big consequences—and how to get your integrity, identity, and influence back on track. If you’ve ever felt stuck between the version of you the world sees and the one you actually are, this episode is your invitation to come clean, get honest, and start living the kind of life you were built for. Visit www.Quest-Success.com for more resources. Books by Dr. Jerry Cunningham are available on Amazon—just search his name. 🎧 Press play—and take the first step toward real success.   ALTERNATE PSYCHOLOGICAL SOURCES YOU CAN USE Dan Ariely – “The (Honest) Truth About Dishonesty” Albert Bandura – Moral Disengagement Theory (how people justify unethical actions) Roy Baumeister – Ego Depletion and Self-Control Self-Concept Maintenance Theory – Mazar, Amir, and Ariely (2008) Baumeister & Heatherton (1996): “Self-regulation failure: An overview” Carol Tavris & Elliot Aronson – “Mistakes Were Made (But Not by Me)” (rationalization research)

What kind of man could preach to over 200 million people, counsel world leaders, and still keep his message simple enough for a child to understand? In this Legacy Behind the Legend episode of Quest for Success, Dr. Jerry Cunningham, psychologist, leadership coach, and author of the Quest for Success Series, uncovers the powerful, faith-driven journey of a humble farm boy turned global evangelist. You’ll be inspired by how spiritual clarity, moral conviction, and unwavering focus can build a legacy that touches generations. You’ll also walk away with lessons you can apply in your own leadership journey, especially when the spotlight is tempting but the mission is greater. To learn more about spiritual leadership and legacy, explore: www.BillyGraham.org “Just As I Am” by Billy Graham Moral Compass by Dr. Jerry Cunningham (available on Amazon) “The Call” by Os Guinness

Is your spiritual life feeling more like a slow trip to the DMV than a walk with the living God? You’re not alone—and it doesn’t have to stay that way. In this joyful and eye-opening episode of Quest for Success, Dr. Jerry Cunningham—psychologist, leadership coach, and best-selling author of the Quest for Success series—shakes up the idea that faith has to be stiff, serious, or somber. You’ll hear real stories, a surprising amount of laughter, and powerful insights from psychology and Scripture—all pointing to one truth: Jesus was magnetic, alive, and full of joy. So why isn’t your spiritual life? If you’ve been feeling stuck, dry, or just plain bored in your walk with God, this episode might just be the fresh wind you’ve been praying for. 🎧 Listen now—and bring your faith back to life. Visit www.Quest-Success.com for more tools, and grab Dr. Cunningham’s books on Amazon by searching Dr. Jerry Cunningham.   SOURCES TO EXPLORE: Csikszentmihalyi, M. (1990). Flow: The Psychology of Optimal Experience Harvard’s Human Flourishing Program: https://hfh.fas.harvard.edu Pew Research on Religion & Life Satisfaction: https://www.pewresearch.org Mayo Clinic: “Stress Relief from Laughter? It’s No Joke.” Proverbs 17:22 – “A cheerful heart is good medicine…” And the entire Bible of course. 

Ghosting has become the norm and “I’ll be there” often translates to “unless something better comes up,” one trait still sets people apart: reliability. In this episode of Quest for Success, Dr. Jerry Cunningham, psychologist, leadership coach, and best-selling author of the Quest for Success series, discusses why your word is your most underrated leadership skill. From broken promises in high school driveways to boardroom credibility and emotional safety in families, this episode is a journey into the psychology of trust, the science of follow-through, and the quiet magnetism of people who simply show up. You’ll laugh, maybe get a little choked up (Fresh Prince fans, you’ve been warned), and leave with one clear takeaway: people don’t follow charisma, they follow consistency. Tune in now at www.Quest-Success.com and wherever you get your podcasts. Books by Dr. Jerry Cunningham available on Amazon—just search the name. If you’ve ever been let down… or want to be the kind of person who doesn’t… hit play.   Resources for Further Learning Cialdini, R. (2006). Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion. Covey, S.R. (1989). The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People. American Psychological Association. (2023). Trust in America Survey. Zak, P. (2012). The Moral Molecule: The Source of Love and Prosperity. Brown, B. (2012). Daring Greatly.

What can a 19th-century circus master teach you about entrepreneurship, leadership, and bouncing back from failure? In this captivating mini-episode of The Quest for Success Podcast, Dr. Jerry Cunningham, psychologist and author of the Quest for Success book series, uncovers the untold legacy of a man who turned spectacle into strategy and built a business empire out of curiosity, courage, and chaos. You’ll hear the wild, true story of “Phineas,” an entertainer who lost it all more than once… yet came back swinging with what became wildly successful. His story is about financial acumen, leadership, and resilience in the face of mockery and disaster. Whether you're launching your first side hustle or trying to rebuild after a setback, this episode delivers insights that are as practical as they are inspiring. 🔥 Want more tools to build a life of purpose and success? Visit: www.Quest-Success.com Dr. Cunningham’s books are available on Amazon—just search Dr. Jerry Cunningham to start your own Quest for Success.   Want to Learn More? Barnum: An American Life by Robert Wilson The Life of P.T. Barnum by P.T. Barnum (Autobiography) The Greatest Showman (2017 film – inspired by Barnum’s life) Harvard Business Review article: “What Entrepreneurs Can Learn from P.T. Barnum”

What if the most powerful mental reset didn’t require a therapist, a vacation, or a complete life overhaul—but just a pair of walking shoes? In this inspiring and practical episode of the Quest for Success Podcast, Dr. Jerry Cunningham—psychologist and best-selling author of the Quest for Success series—shares how a simple morning walk can radically improve your mental clarity, leadership, mood, and even family life. We’ll unpack the science behind movement, circadian rhythm, and emotional regulation—plus hear the real-life story of “Thomas,” a burned-out dad who found his breakthrough not in a boardroom, but on a sidewalk. This episode is not about fitness. It’s about focus. About starting your day with momentum instead of mayhem. Before you hit snooze tomorrow, hit play on this. Then lace up, step outside, and walk into the clarity you’ve been missing.  Books by Dr. Cunningham available now on Amazon—just search Dr. Jerry Cunningham  Visit www.Quest-Success.com for more resources. SOURCES FOR MORE RESEARCH Harvard Health Publishing: “Walking for Health: Why This Simple Exercise is So Good for You” Journal of Psychiatric Research – Studies on walking and depression University of Michigan – Attention Restoration Theory APA (American Psychological Association) – Behavioral activation resources Stanford University Study – Walking boosts creative output by 60% National Institutes of Health (NIH) – Morning light and circadian rhythm research

In this inspiring episode of Quest for Success, Dr. Jerry Cunningham, psychologist and author, shows you how to walk boldly in your faith in the workplace without becoming “that awkward religious person.” Whether you're on a job site, in a boardroom, or behind a register, you’ll discover how spiritual integrity can actually make you a better leader, reduce burnout, and deepen your influence. Drawing from psychology, Scripture, and even Frodo Baggins, this episode gives you a powerful, practical blueprint for showing up with courage, consistency, and kindness, without alienating coworkers or shrinking back. If you’ve ever wrestled with how to honor your faith while keeping your professional edge, this one’s for you. Visit www.Quest-Success.com for more tools and episodes. Books by Dr. Jerry Cunningham are available now on Amazon. Subscribe now—and share this with someone trying to live their faith in a secular world.   Additional Sources to Deepen the Episode Books: Every Good Endeavor by Timothy Keller Lead Like Jesus by Ken Blanchard and Phil Hodges The Daniel Dilemma by Chris Hodges Authentic Leadership by Bill George Psychological Research: Festinger, L. (1957). A Theory of Cognitive Dissonance Edmondson, A. (1999). “Psychological Safety and Learning Behavior in Work Teams.” Administrative Science Quarterly Schwartz, M.S. (2011). “Corporate Social Responsibility: An Ethical Approach.” Broadview Press Faith-Based Resources: RightNow Media workplace series Global Leadership Summit archives YouVersion devotionals: "Faith and Work"

In this powerful episode of Quest for Success, you’ll step into the story of a man who walked through the darkest valley humanity has ever known—and emerged carrying a torch of hope for the world. His story isn’t about comfort, wealth, or fame. It’s about finding purpose when everything else is stripped away. And what he discovered about meaning in suffering continues to transform leaders, students, and seekers to this very day. Hosted by Dr. Jerry Cunningham—psychologist and best-selling author of the Quest for Success book series—this episode doesn’t just retell history. It invites you to wrestle with a question that could change your life: What’s your “why”? Because when you discover it, no obstacle, no setback, and no season of struggle can take it from you. If you’ve ever wondered how to find strength in your darkest hour—or how to lead with courage when life feels overwhelming—this story is for you. Learn more at www.Quest-Success.com. Books by Dr. Jerry Cunningham are available on Amazon—just search his name.

You sit more than you think—and it’s costing you more than you know. In this eye-opening episode of Quest for Success, Dr. Jerry Cunningham reveals why sitting has been called “the new smoking” and how it’s quietly draining your energy, focus, and leadership potential. Drawing from psychology, brain science, and real-world experience, this episode uncovers the surprising truth about modern inactivity and what you can do to break free from it. You’ll hear the story of a high-achieving entrepreneur whose health and career were nearly derailed by something we all do daily… and you’ll walk away with simple, powerful strategies to reclaim your momentum without overhauling your life. If you’ve been feeling stuck, sluggish, or just out of rhythm, this episode will help you stand up...physically, mentally, and spiritually. 🔹 Hosted by Dr. Jerry Cunningham, psychologist and best-selling author of the Quest for Success series.🔹 Learn more at www.Quest-Success.com 🔹 Books available on Amazon – just search “Dr. Jerry Cunningham.”   ADDITIONAL SOURCES FOR DEEPER RESEARCH: Dr. James Levine (Mayo Clinic) – The physician who coined the phrase “Sitting is the new smoking.” His research on NEAT (Non-Exercise Activity Thermogenesis) is foundational. "Deskbound" by Dr. Kelly Starrett – Practical strategies for combating sedentary office life. The American Journal of Epidemiology – Studies on prolonged sitting and mortality risks. Harvard Health Publishing – Overview of the risks of sedentary behavior and tips to increase movement. YouTube – Look up “Dr. Rangan Chatterjee movement routines” for short health movement tips that can be embedded in episodes or reels.

In today’s culture, ambition is often worn like a badge of honor. We’re told to hustle harder, climb faster, and never stop grinding. But what happens when that same ambition starts to pull us away from who we truly are? In this episode of Quest for Success, Dr. Jerry Cunningham explores the delicate balance between chasing success and staying grounded in your values. It’s a real talk about what happens when ambition becomes your identity and how to recognize the signs before it costs you more than it's worth. This isn’t about giving up on goals. It’s about making sure the pursuit of success doesn’t sabotage your integrity, relationships, or peace of mind. You’ll walk away with clarity, encouragement, and practical ways to keep your drive aligned with your deeper purpose. Follow now and share this with someone who’s chasing big dreams but needs a reminder to stay rooted. For more, visit www.Quest-Success.com.   📚Additional Sources to Enrich the Episode: Books: Give and Take by Adam Grant — explores how givers, takers, and matchers succeed differently in business and life. The Road to Character by David Brooks — great insight into how we can build moral depth alongside achievement. Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel Pink — foundational research on internal vs. external motivation. Academic Research: Judge, T. A., & Kammeyer-Mueller, J. D. (2007). “Personality and career success: A review and research agenda.” Journal of Management. Baumeister, R. F., et al. (1998). "Ego depletion: Is the active self a limited resource?" Journal of Personality and Social Psychology. Articles & Websites: Harvard Business Review: “The Problem with Being Too Driven” Greater Good Science Center: www.greatergood.berkeley.edu (search “ambition and morality”)

In this powerful Legacy Behind the Legend episode of the Quest for Success Podcast, Dr. Jerry Cunningham—psychologist and author of the Quest for Success series—takes you on a journey into the extraordinary life of a woman who was born into bondage but refused to let chains define her. Known here only as “the Preacher” her story is one of grit, moral courage, and an unshakable conviction that truth must be spoken, even when it costs everything. From escaping slavery with nothing but faith, to winning a landmark court case as the first Black woman to successfully challenge a white man in court, to standing before Abraham Lincoln himself, her life is a blueprint for speaking up when silence is easier. You’ll walk away inspired to live with conviction, stand for what’s right, and understand that you don’t need a title to make a difference—you need courage. Listen now, and discover the legacy behind the legend. Visit www.Quest-Success.com to learn more. Dr. Cunningham’s books are available on Amazon—just search Dr. Jerry Cunningham.

That voice in your head telling you you’re not ready… not qualified… not enough? It’s not the truth—it’s a trap. In this episode of Quest for Success, Dr. Jerry Cunningham—psychologist, leadership coach, and best-selling author—unpacks how that inner critic forms, why it’s so convincing, and what you can start doing today to stop it from running your life. You’ll hear a powerful story about a young Army officer who went from self-doubt in jump school to leading at the highest levels of the 82nd Airborne. You’ll also get practical, psychology-backed tools to help you lead with clarity—in your work, your family, and your future. This episode isn’t just motivational. It’s tactical. And it might be the breakthrough moment your confidence has been waiting for. 🎧 Hit play. 🌐 Learn more at www.Quest-Success.com. 📚 Books available on Amazon—just search for Dr. Jerry Cunningham.   Additional Sources to Reference Feeling Good: The New Mood Therapy – Dr. David D. Burns The Confidence Gap – Dr. Russ Harris Harvard Business Review: “Overcoming Imposter Syndrome” PsychologyTools.com – CBT Worksheets and Tools Dr. Kristin Neff – Research on Self-Compassion fMRI Study: “Self-Criticism and the Brain” (Longe et al., 2010)

Is money stress your unwanted roommate? In this episode of Quest for Success, Dr. Jerry Cunningham—psychologist and best-selling author—gets real about growing up with money anxiety, being raised by a single mom with no safety net, and how those generational money fears still whisper in the back of his mind. Backed by research from the NIH and psychology experts, this episode unpacks how trauma and finances are deeply connected—and how YOU can break the curse. Learn how to shift the narrative for your family, lead with confidence, and finally breathe when looking at your bank account. Hit subscribe and share with someone who needs a fresh financial perspective. Hosted by: Dr. Jerry Cunningham, clinical psychologist and author of the Quest for Success series. Books available on Amazon—just search Dr. Jerry Cunningham. Visit www.Quest-Success.com for more resources.   Sources for Further Info NIH 2022 Study on Money Anxiety: “Financial Strain and Mental Health” – PubMed: PMID 35137002 APA – Psychology of Financial Behavior: https://www.apa.org/news/press/releases/stress/2022/money-finances Brad Klontz, Psy.D – Money Scripts Research: https://www.yourmentalwealthadvisors.com/ Rachel Cruze (Dave Ramsey Team) on Generational Money Beliefs https://www.rachelcruze.com/ "Scarcity: The New Science of Having Less and How It Defines Our Lives" by Mullainathan & Shafir

In the 1960s, thousands of babies were dying each year from a devastating condition with no cure and no prevention. Then, doctors discovered one man’s blood carried something rare—something that could stop the disease before it even began. Over the next five decades, he quietly gave a part of himself more than 1,100 times, saving millions of lives in the process. In this episode, you’ll hear the true story of how an ordinary person with an extraordinary gift chose to show up again and again… and how you can use what you’ve been given to change the world. You will find out the Legacy Behind the Legend. 

What do baseball and leadership have in common? More than you think. In this episode of Quest for Success, Dr. Jerry Cunningham steps up to the plate with a message that’s part locker room talk, part life lesson. From dugout memories in small-town Missouri to the psychology of mental toughness, this episode breaks down how resilience is built—one swing at a time. You’ll hear a story about Danny (not his real name, but a real impact), get a peek into Jerry’s own battles for the pitcher’s mound, and learn why self-efficacy and emotional grit matter more than raw talent. Whether you’re in the boardroom, the breakroom, or just trying to keep your sanity at home, this episode will help you breathe deep, grip the bat, and stay in the game. This one’s got baseball, Bandura, and a love story at Busch Stadium. What more could you want? Hit play. You might just find your next win. ADDITIONAL SOURCES Angela Duckworth – Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance https://angeladuckworth.com/grit-book/ Center for Creative Leadership: "Why Leaders Fail" Study https://www.ccl.org/articles/leading-effectively-articles/why-leaders-fail/ U.S. Army’s Master Resilience Training (MRT) https://ppc.sas.upenn.edu/programs/resilience-programs Carol Dweck – Mindset: The New Psychology of Success Focus on growth mindset application in leadership. James Loehr – The New Toughness Training for Sports Sports psychology classic on mental toughness.

Think you can hustle your way to the top on four hours of sleep? Think again. In this episode of Quest for Success, psychologist and best-selling author Dr. Jerry Cunningham dives into the science, psychology, and real-life consequences of sleep, how it fuels (or fails) your success in leadership, relationships, decision-making, and personal growth. You’ll hear relatable stories (including how Jerry falls asleep faster than a toddler in a car seat, yet wakes up five times a night), and discover what your brain is really doing while you sleep and what happens when you don’t give it the rest it needs. Packed with practical sleep hacks, historical insights, and a few laughs along the way, this episode will help you start treating sleep not as a luxury, but as one of your greatest success tools. Want to lead better, think sharper, and feel more like yourself again? Start by pressing play. Learn more at www.Quest-Success.com. Books available on Amazon—just search for Dr. Jerry Cunningham.   Additional Resources You Can Reference Matthew Walker, PhD – Why We Sleep Huberman Lab Podcast – Episodes on circadian rhythms and sleep tools National Sleep Foundation – sleepfoundation.org Dr. Andrew Huberman – Sleep-focused neuroscience tools Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) – Sleep statistics and public health guidelines

Welcome to The Legacy Behind the Legend—where we uncover the untold story of a world-changer whose name or situation you might know… but whose journey just might just surprise you. Today's person is McFeely.