Passion Struck® Podcast Episode 539: Dr. Josh Axe on How to Overcome False Narratives
Hosted by John R. Miles
Introduction to the Episode
In Episode 539 of Passion Struck®, host John R. Miles welcomes Dr. Josh Axe, a renowned expert in health and wellness and the founder of draxe.com. This episode delves deep into Dr. Axe's insights on overcoming limiting beliefs and false narratives that hinder personal and professional growth. Drawing from his latest book, Think This Not That: 12 Mind Shifts to Break Through Limiting Beliefs and Become Who You Were Born to Be, Dr. Axe shares transformative strategies to help listeners unlock their full potential.
The Impact of Mentors and Early Influences
John R. Miles opens the discussion by exploring the profound impact of early mentorship and familial influences on mindset. He references his own experiences with his grandfather, highlighting how mentors shape our beliefs and values.
John R. Miles [08:02]: "How did those early teachings from your grandfather influence the way you approach mindset?"
Dr. Axe emphasizes the significance of surrounding oneself with virtuous and disciplined individuals who instill positive beliefs.
Dr. Josh Axe [08:02]: "Life is about becoming a certain type of person... adding value to others. Life is about relationships, advancing the kingdom of God, building a relationship with God and serving other people."
Overcoming Limiting Beliefs: Dr. Axe’s Personal Journey
Dr. Axe shares his personal journey of overcoming limiting beliefs that were imposed by others during his formative years. Recounting a pivotal moment in high school, he describes how negative feedback from a teacher nearly derailed his aspirations.
Dr. Josh Axe [14:14]: "I went from being the kid in high school that barely graduated to eventually graduating John Hopkins and getting later on, earlier on a doctorate."
This transformation underscores the power of belief and the importance of redefining one’s self-perception.
The ABCDE Method for Transforming Beliefs
Dr. Axe introduces the ABCDE method, a systematic approach to identifying and overcoming limiting beliefs:
- A - Activate: Recall the memory when the belief started.
- B - Belief: Identify the exact belief.
- C - Consequence: Understand the impact of continuing this belief.
- D - Dispute: Challenge the authenticity of the belief.
- E - Exchange: Replace the limiting belief with an empowering one.
Dr. Josh Axe [16:30]: "If people can do that and start to write down the limiting beliefs about themselves, that's where most people start to experience some of their biggest breakthroughs in life."
Redefining Success Beyond External Validations
John and Dr. Axe discuss the often superficial definitions of success prevalent in society—such as wealth, fame, and material possessions—and advocate for a deeper, more meaningful understanding.
John R. Miles [19:40]: "What good is gaining the world but losing your soul? What good is growing a company but losing your family?"
Dr. Josh Axe [19:40]: "My definition of success needs to be made up of these beliefs... success is loving God, loving people, making Earth a heavenly place, adding value to others."
This redirection encourages listeners to align their definitions of success with values that foster long-term fulfillment and societal impact.
Lessons from Historical Figures: Michelangelo
The conversation shifts to historical inspirations, with Dr. Axe highlighting Michelangelo’s dedication and purpose-driven work as exemplary.
Dr. Josh Axe [31:57]: "Michelangelo had such unique gifting as an artist... he took that to the highest level possible... there's a story of him saying, 'Because God will see.'"
Michelangelo’s commitment to his craft and his eternal mindset serve as a powerful model for personal and professional excellence.
The Importance of Deep Relationships
John shares a poignant personal story about his friend Tim, who tragically committed suicide, emphasizing the critical importance of deep, meaningful relationships.
John R. Miles [36:09]: "Tim was the person who, 3:00 in the morning, you'd call, and he'd pick up the phone... I wish I could have asked more probing questions to get him to share more with me."
Dr. Axe echoes this sentiment, stressing the necessity of fostering genuine connections to combat loneliness and disconnection.
Dr. Josh Axe [40:06]: "Be that person to somebody else, put your hand on their shoulder, look them in the eyes and tell them the goodness in them."
The Epidemic of Disconnection: Loneliness and Self-Awareness
The discussion delves into the modern "disease of disconnection," highlighting how loneliness and a lack of self-awareness contribute to mental health issues.
John R. Miles [46:10]: "The disease of disconnection... when you're not connected with yourself, you're disconnected with everything else in your life."
Dr. Josh Axe [54:55]: "Self-awareness is the epitome of wisdom... it's essential to develop self-awareness to grow to your highest level possible."
Dr. Axe underscores that true happiness stems from serving others and experiencing personal growth, both of which require deep self-awareness.
Personal Stories and Reflections on Connection and Service
Both host and guest share personal anecdotes about the transformative power of mentorship and service. Dr. Axe recounts how positive affirmations from mentors have been pivotal in his journey.
Dr. Josh Axe [40:06]: "These created the single biggest turning points in my entire life."
John reflects on his own journey to sobriety, linking it to the broader theme of reconnection with oneself and others.
John R. Miles [53:12]: "When I was drinking, I wasn't having deep connections with people... the health benefits... have been so tremendous."
The Role of Alcohol in Disconnection and Healing
John discusses his personal decision to stop drinking as a means to reconnect with himself and build more authentic relationships. Dr. Axe supports this narrative by highlighting the detrimental effects of alcohol on self-awareness and connection.
Dr. Josh Axe [54:55]: "A lot of people who maybe don't know their purpose... use alcohol to numb out."
John R. Miles [58:32]: "The benefits of not drinking have been so tremendous... created a completely different value system for me."
Practical Steps for Connection and Serving Others
The episode concludes with actionable advice on fostering connections and serving the community. Dr. Axe emphasizes the importance of showing up and leveraging one’s unique talents to make a meaningful impact.
Dr. Josh Axe [41:03]: "Show up somewhere... devote an hour a week to just serving someone who's in need."
He also advocates for simple yet powerful gestures, such as sending positive messages or handwritten notes, to strengthen relationships.
Dr. Josh Axe [45:07]: "Just schedule once a week for even 30 minutes can radically improve the lives of others."
Conclusion and Call to Action
John R. Miles wraps up the episode by reflecting on the profound insights shared by Dr. Josh Axe. He encourages listeners to evaluate their own limiting beliefs and take intentional steps towards personal growth and meaningful connections.
John R. Miles [62:09]: "I was so grateful to have each of you here diving into these transformative conversations... How can you start shifting your mindset to not only overcome those barriers, but thrive in ways you've never imagined?"
Listeners are invited to explore Dr. Axe’s work further, engage with Passion Struck® resources, and apply the discussed principles to lead more intentional and purpose-driven lives.
Key Takeaways:
- Mentorship Matters: Early influences and mentors play a crucial role in shaping one’s mindset and beliefs.
- Identify and Overcome Limiting Beliefs: Utilize the ABCDE method to transform negative narratives into empowering ones.
- Redefine Success: Move beyond superficial measures of success to values that foster meaningful impact and personal fulfillment.
- Foster Deep Relationships: Invest in genuine connections to combat loneliness and enhance emotional well-being.
- Combat Disconnection: Develop self-awareness and engage in purposeful service to reconnect with oneself and others.
- Holistic Health: Addressing mental and emotional health is as vital as physical health for overall well-being.
Notable Quotes:
- Dr. Josh Axe [08:02]: "Life is about becoming a certain type of person... adding value to others."
- Dr. Josh Axe [14:14]: "I went from being the kid in high school that barely graduated to eventually graduating John Hopkins and getting later on, earlier on a doctorate."
- Dr. Josh Axe [19:40]: "Success is loving God, loving people, making Earth a heavenly place, adding value to others."
- Dr. Josh Axe [31:57]: "Michelangelo had such unique gifting... he took that to the highest level possible."
- Dr. Josh Axe [40:06]: "Be that person to somebody else, put your hand on their shoulder, look them in the eyes."
Further Resources:
- Dr. Josh Axe’s Latest Book: Think This Not That: 12 Mind Shifts to Break Through Limiting Beliefs and Become Who You Were Born to Be
- Passion Struck® Resources: Visit passionstruck.com for show notes, YouTube episodes, and exclusive offers.
- Connect with John R. Miles: Follow John on Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
Upcoming Episode Preview:
Next week on Passion Struck®, John will be joined by Kim Scott, author of Radical Candor and a renowned leadership expert, to discuss open communication, authentic leadership, and building trust-filled relationships in both personal and professional spheres.
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This comprehensive summary encapsulates the essence of Episode 539, highlighting the key discussions, personal anecdotes, and actionable insights shared by John R. Miles and Dr. Josh Axe. Whether you're familiar with the podcast or a new listener, this guide provides a clear and engaging overview of the transformative conversation.