What does it really take to thrive in today’s world? Dive into this compelling conversation with Steve Magness, renowned performance coach and author of 'Win the Inside Game.' In this episode of Grow the Good, Steve and I unpack the essentials of maintaining a balanced identity amidst life’s challenges. We delve into his innovative framework for success—focusing on clarity, support, and belonging—and explore how these elements contribute to our overall well-being and performance. Whether you're a parent, professional, or passionate pursuer of dreams, Steve’s insights on avoiding the pitfalls o ..read more

In this reflective moving meditation, I am taking us on a trail ride through the serene greenery post a heavy snowfall, sharing her personal journey towards finding contentment amidst life’s relentless pace. I'm going to talk about the subtle distinction between rumination and reflection, emphasizing the value of embracing the present moment without the pressure of perfection. Let's practice some real strategies for identifying and savoring moments of peace, and learn how true contentment emerges not from relentless striving but through gentle acceptance of the now. Here's what we'll practice ..read more

We've all been there - stuck in a thought loop about an experience, interaction, or feeling. But how do we break the cycle? Today, I'll explore the six common triggers of rumination, from social interactions to deep-seated resentments, and learn how to differentiate between harmful rumination and productive reflection. I'll guide you through effective mindfulness and cognitive techniques designed to break this cycle, enhance self-compassion, and move from passive dwelling to proactive action. Interested in learning more? I'm hosting a three-week workshop, "The Mental Reset," geared to help you ..read more

Mindfulness expert George Mumford has traversed a remarkable path from injured athlete to mind-body guru and has inspired countless individuals, from NBA legends like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant to corporate leaders and Olympic athletes. In this episode, George shares invaluable insights on achieving peak mental states through “no mind,” embracing life’s challenges, and cultivating deep connections. You’ll learn George’s philosophy of focusing beyond personal achievements to embrace a service-oriented approach to mindfulness. Whether you’re striving for personal growth or professional exce ..read more

Join me, Sonya Looney, in our first moving meditation of 2025. Today's journey is about harnessing patience and acceptance amidst life's unavoidable interruptions. I'm back on the bike after my longest training break, so it feels more relevant than ever to highlight the importance of emotional regulation, the power of naming our emotions, and the crucial role of acceptance in building resilience. As we ride together, I'll guide you through mindfulness practices to help manage discomfort - both physical and emotional - and reinforce the value of optimism and social support. Whether you're sidel ..read more

Join me, Sonya Looney, in our first moving meditation of 2025. Today’s journey is about harnessing patience and acceptance amidst life’s unavoidable interruptions. I'm back on the bike after my longest training break, so it feels more relevant than ever to highlight the importance of emotional regulation, the power of naming our emotions, and the crucial role of acceptance in building resilience. As we ride together, I’ll guide you through mindfulness practices to help manage discomfort—both physical and emotional—and reinforce the value of optimism and social support. Whether you’re sideline ..read more

Are you ready to transform the way you think about success and happiness? This isn’t just about personal achievement; it’s about creating a life filled with purpose, vitality, and meaningful connections. Welcome to 'Grow the Good,' where we explore not just surviving, but truly thriving in every area of life. Formerly the Sonya Looney Show, this podcast is all about leveraging the principles of positive psychology to not just fix what's wrong, but to amplify what's right within us and around us. Today, I'm diving into what 'Grow the Good' stands for, exploring the rich philosophy of meliorism ..read more

How do your achievements shape your sense of self? In this episode of Grow the Good, I sit down with Ben Walker, an expert in organizational behavior from Victoria University of Wellington, to explore the intricate world of performance-based identities. We discuss how the labels we attach to ourselves shape our sense of self and influence our deeper motivations. Ben offers enlightening perspectives on the risks associated with tying our self-worth too closely to performance and provides actionable strategies for fostering a healthier, more balanced identity. From expanding our social circles t ..read more

As a world champion mountain biker, mental performance coach, and someone deeply passionate about positive psychology, I’ve always believed in focusing on the good that already exists within us and around us. “Grow the Good” isn’t just a podcast—it’s a movement towards living authentically and thriving through the pillars of purpose, vitality, resilience, hope, and connection.  Why tune into “Grow the Good”?         1.        Purpose: We’ll explore how to align your daily actions with your deepest values and how those actions can make meaningful im ..read more

December can be a joyful yet challenging time - full of excitement for the holidays and a new year, but also heavy with grief, difficult family dynamics, and feelings of loneliness. Let's step away from the chaos and immerse ourselves in the sights, sounds, and sensations of the natural world to find calm amidst the storm. By slowing down and really tuning in, we can experience awe and a profound sense of connection to something greater than ourselves. This practice is not about escaping our problems, but about finding the resources within to face them with more clarity, resilience, and compas ..read more