DiscoverQuest for Success
Quest for Success
Claim Ownership

Quest for Success

Author: Dr. Jerry Cunningham

Subscribed: 2Played: 12
Share

Description

**Quest for Success with Dr. Jerry Cunningham**

Are you a leader who feels stuck, overwhelmed, or like you're constantly falling short of your full potential? Welcome to *Quest for Success*, the podcast that will help you break through self-doubt and step into the success you were made for.

I'm **Dr. Jerry Cunningham**, a clinical psychologist with over 20 years of experience helping people overcome mental roadblocks, build resilience, and unlock the life they were meant to live. This podcast is for high achievers, leaders, and everyday people who want to strengthen their **mindset, morals, body, spirit, and finances**—the five pillars of success.

Here's what you can expect from *Quest for Success*:

🔹 **Mental & Social Health** – Understand the psychology behind success, master your emotions, and build unshakable confidence.
🔹 **Morality & Integrity** – Learn how strong ethics and character shape long-term success, using insights from stoicism, research, and common sense.
🔹 **Physical Health & Discipline** – Stay sharp, energized, and driven with practical strategies for optimizing your health.
🔹 **Spiritual Growth** – Find deeper meaning and guidance in your journey using biblical principles, faith, and wisdom from great leaders.
🔹 **Financial Success** – Build wealth with integrity, avoid common financial traps, and create a future that aligns with your values.

Through a mix of psychology, philosophy, faith, and real-world experience, I'll provide **actionable strategies** and **thought-provoking conversations** to help you **push past your limits and live a more fulfilling, successful life**.

This isn't just about motivation—it's about **real transformation**.

So if you're ready to **think deeper, work smarter, and achieve more**, hit *subscribe* and join me on the *Quest for Success*! 🚀
76 Episodes
Reverse
Are you working hard but still feeling like your energy tank runs on empty? In this episode of the Quest for Success Podcast, we uncover how your Basic Metabolic Rate (BMR), which are the calories your body burns just to stay alive, plays a major role in your leadership, focus, and success. Dr. Jerry Cunningham breaks down the science of metabolism in a way that's simple, funny, and surprisingly practical. You'll learn how to calculate your own BMR, why muscle is your best long-term investment, and how habits like sleep, nutrition, and movement can literally rewire your energy levels for success. If you've ever wondered why your body resists progress, or why that coworker who "eats everything" never seems to gain a pound then this episode will finally make it all click. Your energy is your leadership currency. Learn how to protect it, grow it, and spend it wisely. Listen now and start fueling your path to success. Visit www.Quest-Success.com for more resources, coaching, and inspiration. References for Further Learning: Mifflin, M. D., et al. (1990). A new predictive equation for resting energy expenditure. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Müller, M. J., et al. (2016). Adaptive thermogenesis and energy balance in humans. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Rosenbaum, M., & Leibel, R. L. (2010). Adaptive thermogenesis in humans. International Journal of Obesity. Harvard Health Publishing (2023). Understanding metabolism and weight management. Mayo Clinic Staff (2024). Metabolism and weight loss: How you burn calories.
In this inspiring mini-episode, you'll meet a woman whose quiet determination changed a nation. She wasn't a politician, a preacher, or a president. She was simply someone who believed gratitude could heal a divided people. For nearly two decades, she wrote, pleaded, and persisted until one letter reached Abraham Lincoln's desk… and Thanksgiving became a national holiday. This episode invites you to see how moral leadership is steady, faithful, and fueled by conviction. You'll walk away reminded that one person, armed with purpose and persistence, can make history. Listen now and rediscover how gratitude, perseverance, and faith can still unite and inspire us today. Learn more about the Quest for Success movement at www.Quest-Success.com.   Want to learn more? Check out these resources: Sarah Josepha Hale: The Woman Who Lobbied Lincoln to Proclaim Thanksgiving – Smithsonian Magazine A Thankful Nation: How Thanksgiving Became a Holiday – National Archives Mary Had a Little Lamb and the Woman Who Wrote It – New England Historical Society The Power of Persistence – John C. Maxwell Leadership and Gratitude – Harvard Business Review
Memento Mori

Memento Mori

2025-11-1017:15

What if the most powerful motivation tool you'll ever use… is remembering that one day, your time will run out? In this episode of Quest for Success, Dr. Jerry Cunningham takes a straight-talking, deeply practical look at the ancient idea of memento mori—"remember you must die." But this isn't about fear. It's about focus. You'll learn how this mindset sharpens your priorities, strengthens your leadership, and reminds you how to live with real passion and purpose—today. If you've ever felt like life is passing you by, this episode will help you slow down, wake up, and start leading your life intentionally again. You'll leave with powerful tools to build gratitude, courage, and clarity into your everyday choices. Because when you remember your time is limited… you finally start to live unlimited. Learn more at www.Quest-Success.com   Want to Dig Deeper? Aurelius, Marcus. Meditations. (Gregory Hays translation, Modern Library, 2002). Becker, Ernest. The Denial of Death. Free Press, 1973. Yalom, Irvin D. Staring at the Sun: Overcoming the Terror of Death. Jossey-Bass, 2008. Pyszczynski, Tom, Greenberg, Jeff, & Solomon, Sheldon. Terror Management Theory: The Quest for Meaning. Academic Press, 2015. Holy Bible, James 4:14 – "You are a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes."
Are you chasing money or creating value? In this episode of the Quest for Success Podcast, Dr. Jerry Cunningham breaks down how to shift your mindset from scarcity to abundance, because true wealth isn't about stacking cash, it's about building something that lasts. Through lessons from Trading Places, Brewster's Millions, and The Big Short, you'll discover how leadership, adaptability, and purpose can multiply your value far beyond what's in your bank account. You'll learn how to spot hidden opportunities, lead with vision, and build long-term success in your work, family, and community. If you've ever felt stuck chasing the next raise, deal, or dopamine hit of success, this episode will help you break the cycle and start leading from purpose, not pressure. Listen now and start building the kind of success money can't buy. Visit www.Quest-Success.com for more episodes, leadership tools, and success resources.   Recommended Resources: The Go-Giver by Bob Burg & John David Mann The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey Harvard Business Review – "The Power of an Abundance Mindset" McKinsey & Company – "Strategic Foresight: Seeing Beyond the Horizon" Deloitte Insights – "The Value of Purpose-Driven Leadership"
In this episode of The Quest for Success Podcast, we uncover the remarkable story of a man who bridged two worlds and turned tragedy into legacy. Discover how one voice of courage and compassion helped two nations survive, and what his journey can teach you about leadership, integrity, and resilience. This is the untold legacy of Squanto—The Interpreter. Check out more at www.Quest-Success.com and begin your own Quest for Success. Learn More: Bradford, William. Of Plymouth Plantation, 1620–1647. Mann, Charles C. 1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus. Philbrick, Nathaniel. Mayflower: A Story of Courage, Community, and War. National Museum of the American Indian – "Squanto and the Wampanoag." Smithsonian Magazine – "The Real Story of Squanto."
www.Quest-Success.com Are you constantly saying "yes" when you want to say "no"? Do you find yourself overwhelmed, overlooked, and underappreciated, despite being the "nice one"? In this episode, we dig into the real problem with being too nice and what to do instead. You'll uncover how people-pleasing sabotages your leadership potential and why kindness without boundaries drains your energy, derails your goals, and keeps you stuck in the background. Using the classic 80s film Revenge of the Nerds as a surprisingly perfect illustration, Dr. Jerry Cunningham shares psychological research, leadership strategies, and real-life insights to help you stop being a doormat and start leading with confidence. If you're ready to stop being liked and start being respected—press play.   Want to go deeper? Check out these resources: Deci & Ryan (2000) – Self-Determination Theory: The Psychology of Motivation Newman, Susan (2011) – The Book of No Cloud, Henry (2008) – Integrity: The Courage to Meet the Demands of Reality Harvard Business Review (2023) – "Why Too Much Agreeableness Can Hold You Back" Grant, Adam (2013) – Give and Take: Why Helping Others Drives Our Success
Ready for a leadership lesson with a twist of horror? In this special Halloween edition of the Quest for Success Podcast, we're pulling back the coffin lid on four classic monsters, Freddy Krueger, Count Dracula, Dr. Frankenstein, and Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde, to reveal the surprising leadership insights hiding beneath the blood and shadows. This isn't your typical leadership talk. It's light, a little spooky, and packed with practical takeaways. You'll learn how to: Control the atmosphere like Freddy Lead with presence like Dracula Build responsibly like Frankenstein And master your inner self like Dr. Jekyll Because even monsters have something to teach us… if we're brave enough to look. Hit play and discover what these icons can teach you about influence, resilience, and legacy—just in time for Halloween. Learn more at: www.Quest-Success.com Further Reading / Resources: Monsters You Should Know by Emma SanCartier Leadership in the Shadows by Kyle Lamb Presence: Bringing Your Boldest Self to Your Biggest Challenges by Amy Cuddy The Art of War by Sun Tzu (because even Dracula would've had this on his shelf) Frankenstein by Mary Shelley (the original leadership cautionary tale)
🎃 Halloween Special: "Stingy Jack — The Legacy Behind the Lantern" 🎃 This Halloween, journey with Dr. Jerry Cunningham on The Quest for Success as we uncover the haunting tale of a man whose cleverness outwitted even the Devil, but cost him everything. Known only as Stingy Jack, his story isn't just a ghostly legend, it's a timeless lesson about integrity, greed, and the price of living without light. Discover how one man's choices gave birth to one of the world's most famous Halloween symbols and what his story still teaches us about leadership and legacy today. Tune in, if you dare, and learn how not to lose your way in the dark. Explore more resources at www.Quest-Success.com References for Further Reading: "The Legend of Stingy Jack" – History.com "Why We Carve Pumpkins at Halloween" – Smithsonian Magazine "Irish Folklore and the Origins of Jack O'Lanterns" – National Geographic "The Moral Lessons Behind Folklore" – BBC Culture "Integrity in Leadership" – Harvard Business Review
Your goals right now? They're just like Schrödinger's cat—alive and dead at the same time… until you decide to take action. In this episode of Quest for Success, Dr. Jerry Cunningham breaks down how a physics thought experiment can transform the way you lead, live, and chase success. You'll learn how uncertainty can actually be your greatest advantage, how belief and persistence "collapse" potential into results, and why leaders, who act before they have all the answers and they win more often. If you've ever felt stuck waiting for the "perfect moment" to start, this episode will help you open the box, face the risk, and finally take bold action. You'll walk away with practical steps to strengthen your mindset, build confidence, and lead with clarity in every area of life. Start your journey at www.Quest-Success.com and open the next box on your path to greatness. Learn More: Bandura, A. (1997). Self-Efficacy: The Exercise of Control. W.H. Freeman. Gollwitzer, P. M. (1999). Implementation Intentions: Strong Effects of Simple Plans. American Psychologist. Ericsson, K. A. et al. (1993). The Role of Deliberate Practice in the Acquisition of Expert Performance. Psychological Review. The American College of Sports Medicine (2021). Physical Activity Guidelines and Benefits. The Gottman Institute. Research on Communication and Relationship Health.
Visit: www.Quest-Success.com You've heard it before: "Money is the root of all evil." But what if that's not what the Bible actually says? In this power-packed episode of the Quest for Success podcast, Dr. Jerry Cunningham pulls back the curtain on faith, finances, and leadership and helps you stop feeling guilty about wanting to grow your income, your influence, and your impact. You'll learn what Jesus really taught about money, how to apply the parable of the talents to your business and life, and why being broke doesn't make you holy and being wealthy doesn't make you wicked. We'll also unpack a classic scene from Wall Street, look at the psychology of scarcity vs. stewardship, and explore how "iron sharpens iron" in your financial decisions. This episode is not just about building wealth. It's about building legacy. Hit play to realign your mindset, your money, and your mission—God's way.   Want to dive deeper? Here are a few great resources to explore: The Blessed Life by Robert Morris Business Secrets from the Bible by Rabbi Daniel Lapin The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel Matthew 25:14-30 (Parable of the Talents) Proverbs 13:22, Luke 12:15, and 1 Timothy 6:10 – Key Bible verses on wealth & stewardship
Step back into 1692… when fear ruled the courtroom, truth lost its footing, and neighbors turned against neighbors. But this Halloween, we're not just telling ghost stories, we're uncovering leadership lessons buried in the ashes of Salem. In this special Quest for Success episode, Dr. Jerry Cunningham reveals how the infamous witch trials mirror the "modern-day witch hunts" we see in workplaces, social media, and culture today. You'll discover what real leaders do when the crowd screams for judgment and how to hold on to truth, integrity, and courage when fear takes the microphone. Listen now and learn how the Salem story can sharpen your mental strength, moral compass, and faith in the face of today's hysteria. Visit www.Quest-Success.com to continue your own journey on the path toward leadership and legacy.    Learn More: The Salem Witch Trials: A Day-by-Day Chronicle of a Community Under Siege — Marilynne K. Roach In the Devil's Snare: The Salem Witchcraft Crisis of 1692 — Mary Beth Norton A Delusion of Satan: The Full Story of the Salem Witch Trials — Frances Hill The Crucible — Arthur Miller (a timeless look at hysteria and moral courage) Smithsonian Magazine — "What Caused the Salem Witch Trials?"
Your alarm goes off and before your feet hit the floor, you're already stressed. Sound familiar? In this episode of Quest for Success, Dr. Jerry Cunningham breaks down why most morning routines fail and how mentally strong leaders flip the script. You'll learn the psychological traps that sabotage your mornings (like ego depletion and attentional residue), the science-backed habits that high performers swear by, and how to start your day with clarity instead of chaos. This isn't about waking up at 4AM or chugging celery juice, It's about building a routine that makes you a better leader, parent, and decision-maker. If your mornings have been a mess, this episode will challenge you...in the best way possible. Let's help you stop reacting and start leading. Listen now, and visit www.Quest-Success.com for more tools to help you lead well, live strong, and build success that lasts.   Want to dig deeper? Start here: Baumeister, R. F., & Tierney, J. (2011). Willpower: Rediscovering the Greatest Human Strength. Leroy, S. (2009). "Why Is It So Hard to Do My Work?" Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes. Gollwitzer, P. M. (1999). "Implementation intentions." American Psychologist. Newport, C. (2016). Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World. Duhigg, C. (2012). The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business.
When You're Mad at God

When You're Mad at God

2025-10-1627:01

Ever felt like screaming at the heavens, even while still holding onto a shred of faith? You're not alone. In this powerful episode of Quest for Success, Dr. Jerry Cunningham opens up about what it means to experience spiritual disillusionment, the moments when life breaks your heart, and God feels silent. Whether you've lost someone you love, watched injustice unfold, or simply feel like your prayers are echoing in the dark, this episode will speak directly to you. Through real-life stories, grounded psychological insight, and honest reflection, you'll discover how wrestling with your faith can actually lead to deeper growth, stronger leadership, and a more resilient version of belief. This isn't about answers. It's about healing. And it might just be the perspective shift your soul needs. Listen now and begin the process of rebuilding what was broken. Learn more at www.Quest-Success.com   Want to go deeper? Check out these resources: Exline, J. J. (2002). Stumbling blocks on the religious road: Fractured relationships, nagging vices, and the inner struggle to believe. Yancey, P. (1997). Disappointment with God. Kellemen, B. (2011). God's Healing for Life's Losses. Strobel, L. (2000). The Case for Faith. Worthington, E. L. (2005). Hope-Focused Spirituality and Forgiveness in the Face of Suffering.
This Halloween season on The Quest for Success, we ride into the misty village of Sleepy Hollow to uncover what the tale of Ichabod Crane can still teach us today. Beneath the ghost stories and flickering lanterns lies a timeless truth about ambition, integrity, and the pursuit of success. In this chilling reflection, Dr. Jerry Cunningham explores how one man's cleverness and his craving for comfort reveals what happens when our goals lose their grounding in character. If you've ever been tempted to chase shortcuts, this episode will challenge you to rebuild your pillars of mental strength, moral compass, financial wisdom, and faith. Listen now and discover whether your own quest leads to glory… or to emptiness. Visit www.Quest-Success.com for more insights and resources. Further Reading & References: The Legend of Sleepy Hollow – Washington Irving (1820) The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People – Stephen R. Covey Integrity – Dr. Henry Cloud Man's Search for Meaning – Viktor E. Frankl Mere Christianity – C.S. Lewis
What if the only thing standing between your current life and the one you want… is just three consistent days a week? In this motivating episode of the Quest for Success Podcast, Dr. Jerry Cunningham, psychologist, leadership coach, and author of the Quest for Success book series talks about the power of building a 3x/week habit that transforms your body, mind, and influence. Whether it's fitness, family, faith, or your future, this episode will help you move from the couch to a life marked by consistency, discipline, and success. You'll hear: The science behind habit formation (including Dr. Peter Gollwitzer's groundbreaking research) Real client success stories from Dr. Cunningham's psychology practice How to build routines that elevate your leadership at home, at work, and in your relationships This isn't about going harder. It's about going smarter.  Learn more at www.Quest-Success.com Find Dr. Jerry Cunningham's books by searching his name on Amazon.   References for Further Learning: Gollwitzer, P. M. (1999). Implementation Intentions: Strong Effects of Simple Plans. American Psychologist. Duhigg, C. (2012). The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business. Clear, J. (2018). Atomic Habits: An Easy & Proven Way to Build Good Habits & Break Bad Ones. Duckworth, A. (2016). Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance. Gollwitzer, P. M., & Sheeran, P. (2006). Implementation Intentions and Goal Achievement: A Meta‐Analysis of Effects and Processes. Advances in Experimental Social Psychology.
Are the people in your life pulling you closer to who you want to be or slowly turning you into someone you don't even recognize? In this powerful episode of Quest for Success, psychologist and author Dr. Jerry Cunningham breaks down the invisible force of moral drift and how small compromises and toxic circles can silently shape your character, leadership, and legacy. Drawing from the infamous rise of Walter White in Breaking Bad, plus real-world psychological research on social conformity and value erosion, this episode pulls back the curtain on how leaders either rise or fall… based on who they let in. If you've ever felt the quiet tug to fit in even when it cost you your values, this episode is for you. Subscribe, listen in, and find out how to build a circle that doesn't just protect your success but multiplies it. Visit www.Quest-Success.com to learn more. Books by Dr. Jerry Cunningham available now on Amazon. Just search for Dr. Jerry Cunningham. Want to go deeper? Here are 5 recommended resources: Gino, F., & Bazerman, M. H. (2009). Slippery Slopes and Misconduct: The Effects of Gradual Versus Sudden Ethical Declines. Asch, S. E. (1955). Opinions and Social Pressure. Scientific American. Christakis, N. A., & Fowler, J. H. (2007). The Spread of Obesity in a Large Social Network over 32 Years. Berns, G. S., et al. (2005). Neurobiological correlates of social conformity. Neuron. Cialdini, R. B. (2007). Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion.
Frankenstein

Frankenstein

2025-10-0808:06

In this special Halloween edition of The Quest for Success: Legacy Behind the Legend, Dr. Jerry Cunningham takes you deep into the shadows of one of literature's most misunderstood legends—Frankenstein. You'll discover the true story behind Mary Shelley's creation, how a stormy summer night gave birth to the first work of science fiction, and why the real monster might not be who you think it is. More than a ghost story, this episode explores timeless lessons about leadership, ambition, and the cost of creation. Learn what Dr. Frankenstein, his creature, and Mary Shelley herself can teach us about the five pillars of success and how to avoid becoming the monster in your own story. Happy Halloween. Recommended Reading & References: Shelley, Mary. Frankenstein; or, The Modern Prometheus (1818) Percy Bysshe Shelley's Preface to Frankenstein Mellor, Anne K. Mary Shelley: Her Life, Her Fiction, Her Monsters Baldick, Chris. In Frankenstein's Shadow: Myth, Monstrosity, and Nineteenth-Century Writing Botting, Fred. Frankenstein and the Gothic Tradition      
In this powerful episode of Quest for Success, Dr. Jerry Cunningham challenges listeners to move beyond simply reading Scripture and start living it with authenticity, courage, and consistency. Drawing from the lives of Daniel, the Good Samaritan, and Peter, Dr. Cunningham explores what real faith looks like in action: integrity under pressure, compassion when it's inconvenient, and courage when life feels uncertain. You'll discover how spiritual authenticity builds trust, transforms leadership, and impacts every area of success from the boardroom to the living room. If you've ever felt that gap between what you believe and how you live, this conversation will help you close it. Hosted by Dr. Jerry Cunningham, psychologist and author of the Quest for Success Series. Learn more or connect at www.Quest-Success.com. Dr. Cunningham's books are available on Amazon.  Just search for Dr. Jerry Cunningham. Because it's not enough to quote the Word. The world needs to see it lived out.   Further Reading & References Barna Group (2022). The Open Generation: How Teens Around the World Relate to Jesus. James Clear — Atomic Habits (for applying daily consistency in living faith). Dallas Willard — The Spirit of the Disciplines: Understanding How God Changes Lives. Craig Groeschel — The Christian Atheist: Believing in God but Living As If He Doesn't Exist. Brennan Manning — The Ragamuffin Gospel.
Is therapy just for people in crisis or is it the secret weapon of high performers? In this eye-opening (and surprisingly funny) episode of the Quest for Success Podcast, Dr. Jerry Cunningham, psychologist, leadership coach, and author of the Quest for Success Series, breaks down the truth about therapy in a way that's practical, relatable, and empowering. You'll learn why therapy isn't a weakness but a strategy, how it can elevate your leadership, and what the process of change in therapy actually looks like. Dr. Cunningham also highlights powerful examples of well-known leaders and high achievers who've used therapy to sharpen their mindset, overcome obstacles, and stay strong mentally, morally, and emotionally. Whether you're running a team, raising a family, or just trying to survive Mondays, this episode will show you how therapy might be the best next move on your Quest for Success. Listen now and visit www.Quest-Success.com to explore more resources. Search "Dr. Jerry Cunningham" on Amazon to grab your copy of the Quest for Success Series. Want to learn more? Here are a few great resources to learn more: American Psychological Association – www.apa.org/topics/psychotherapy National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) – www.nami.org Psychology Today – www.psychologytoday.com Verywell Mind – "How Therapy Works" – www.verywellmind.com Kevin Love Fund – www.kevinlovefund.org Tag a friend and hit subscribe. Your future self will thank you.
The Exorcist

The Exorcist

2025-10-0107:02

This Halloween, the true story is scarier than the movie. In this special Legacy Behind the Legend episode, Dr. Jerry Cunningham, psychologist and author of the Quest for Success series, uncovers the chilling real-life events that inspired The Exorcist. You'll discover what really happened to the boy behind the legend, and how his story still haunts the headlines today. This episode isn't just spine-tingling, it's a powerful lesson in spiritual and psychological resilience. Visit www.Quest-Success.com Books available on Amazon — search Dr. Jerry Cunningham Want to dig deeper? Here are some resources to explore: Possessed: The True Story of an Exorcism by Thomas B. Allen Hostage to the Devil by Malachi Martin The Exorcist (1971 novel) by William Peter Blatty "The Real Story Behind The Exorcist" – History Channel Demonic Foes by Dr. Richard Gallagher, MD (Psychiatrist's account of spiritual warfare)
loading
Comments