The Sean Trace Show

In this episode of The Sean Trace Show I sit down with ultra endurance adventurer turned high performance leadership coach Luke Tyburski to unpack what mindset really is and why he says self belief is not even real. We talk about running down Mount Everest, crossing the Sahara, and building a world first 2000 kilometer triathlon from Morocco to Monaco, then translate those lessons into parenting, leadership, and everyday life. Luke breaks down the difference between self belief and confidence, how to actually build confidence with reps, positive self talk, and community, and why being present is the real success hack in a world addicted to distraction. We get into helping our kids face exams and fear of failure, training our attention like an athlete, making choices instead of sacrifices, and crafting a personal life philosophy that becomes your North Star. If you have ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or trapped in negative self talk, this conversation will give you practical tools to refocus, be less negative, and move forward one intentional choice at a time.

In this episode of The Sean Trace Show, I sit down with communication coach and TEDx speaker coach Michael Ashford to unpack what it really means to talk like a human in an AI driven world. We dive into everything from storytelling and conflict resolution to thinking on your feet and asking better questions. We explore why presence and attention are the real flex, how to train curiosity so your intuition becomes sharper and less biased, and how emotional intelligence shows up in hiring, leadership, parenting, Muay Thai with my daughter, and even learning to embrace failure with a growth mindset. Along the way, I share some of my own wild stories from Zen Buddhism, Chinese medicine, and recovering from years of food allergies, while Michael breaks down practical frameworks for becoming a better listener, interviewer, and leader so our conversations build trust instead of breaking it. If you care about communication, conflict resolution, intuition, or just staying genuinely human while AI reshapes the world, this episode is a masterclass in slowing down, paying attention, and letting curiosity lead the way.

In this episode of The Sean Trace Show, I sit down with executive coach and leadership expert Chris March to talk about what real leadership looks like in 2025, far beyond the fake it till you make it mindset. We start with our shared love of basketball and Kobe Bryant, breaking down the mamba mentality, how Kobe reset the culture of the Redeem Team, and what it means to set a standard that pulls everyone else higher. From there we dive into the difference between performative confidence and real confidence, why the best leaders often do not have to be the loudest in the room, and how one person can change the culture of a team, a company, or even a kids Muay Thai class just by how they show up. Chris shares how high performers burn out when they try to be machines, and we unpack the seven types of rest, from physical and mental rest to social, sensory, creative, and spiritual rest, and why they matter if you want sustainable high performance. We also talk about finding your why, how his 17 year travel career collapsing during the pandemic pushed him into coaching, what feedback really is for ambitious mid career professionals, and why you will never earn more than you secretly believe you are worth. If you are a founder, a manager, or just someone who wants to lead your life with more purpose, this conversation blends Kobe Bryant mamba mentality, executive coaching, burnout recovery, leadership mindset, and real talk about resilience into one powerful playbook for becoming the kind of leader people actually want to follow.

In this solo episode, I open up about something we all struggle with: quitting too soon. I talk about how, growing up, I bounced between instruments and sports, never sticking long enough to see progress. I even joke about faking guitar in my wife’s music videos because, honestly, I quit before I ever got good. But that’s the point! We all hit “the dip,” that frustrating middle zone where excitement fades before the results show. I share how my daughter Ailani hit that same wall learning piano, and how staying consistent turned endless “Mary Had a Little Lamb” into real music. The truth is, success isn’t about grinding till you burn out, it’s about small wins, showing up daily, and not quitting on a bad day. Motivation fades, but identity sticks. When you start telling yourself “I’m someone who finishes,” everything changes. This episode is my reminder for you and for me, that we are what we repeatedly do. Keep showing up, even when it sucks. Don’t stop when you’re tired, stop when you’re done.

I sit down with New York Times bestselling writer Bill Blankschaen to unpack how your real breakthrough starts when you start with your story, for real, and we get into leaving safe gigs, choosing the calling, and building StoryBuilders to help leaders craft books and content that actually move people. We talk mindset, faith as action, the hero’s journey, the normalcy trap, and how motion creates options. Bill shares the framework behind Your Story Advantage, from finding a meaningful message to multiplying it through books and platforms, then monetizing it in the creator economy. I share my own leap moments, from Vietnam to film sets, and how answering the call opened wild doors. If you want a life that feels aligned, if you want clarity on your strengths, and if you are ready to tell your story with courage and cash flow in mind, press play and let’s build.

I sat down with leadership coach Hugo Breton to talk about one of the hardest jumps in any career, going from being the best individual contributor on the team to actually leading one. We got real about the gap between management and leadership, learning to delegate, building trust through authenticity, and why communication is everything. Hugo shared how great leaders set a clear North Star, keep their teams aligned like a perfect LEGO build, and create systems that prevent burnout instead of causing it. We even dove into how creative teams, from game studios to media companies, can use Pixar-style feedback loops to level up together. If you’re ready to stop micromanaging and start scaling, this episode is your cheat code for leadership.

In this podcast, I sit down with science communicator Erin Winick Anthony, formerly MIT Tech Review and NASA, now founder of Steam Power Media, to design the next space station from the ground up. We unpack how modular stations get to orbit, what materials and shielding protect crews from radiation and micrometeoroids, and why robots like AstroBee will take routine tasks off astronaut schedules. We dig into microgravity science, fire that burns as a sphere, 3D printing human tissues, hydroponics and aeroponics for tomatoes and lettuce, and the very real upgrades to sleep, food, and even toilets. We dream up a space pinball machine and a science arcade, talk about space hotels for families, and what kids need to train for microgravity. Erin shares lessons from zero-g flights, Meow Wolf tech art, and NASA’s Benefits for Humanity, plus how to make complex science engaging on social media. If you care about ISS replacement, STEM education, and inspiring the next generation, this episode is for you.

In this solo episode of The Sean Trace Show , I open up about one of those weeks when everything seems to hit at once. I got sick, felt worn out, and started questioning my balance between work, family, and purpose. But through that chaos, I was reminded of something powerful: storms are inevitable, but panic is optional. I share lessons from martial arts, stoicism, and leadership about how to stay calm under pressure, focus on what you can control, and use slow seasons to sharpen your sword. Whether you’re a parent, creator, or business leader, this episode will remind you that calm isn’t passive, it’s power in motion.

This Monday on The Sean Trace Show, I went solo to talk about one of the most important skills we can develop: staying calm under pressure. It started with a funny but stressful moment when a cockroach flew into my daughter’s eye on the motorbike ride home from Muay Thai, and it led us into a powerful conversation about why panic never solves the problem. I shared stories from my own life, from pulling someone out of a flipped car to lessons from Stoic philosophy, to even what I’ve learned watching Anderson Silva dance around the octagon. Whether it’s raising my daughter, leading my team, or navigating the chaos of everyday life, the truth is the same: calm is a choice and a skill. If we can hold onto our composure, we can make better decisions, protect the people we love, and lead through difficult moments.

In this episode of The Sean Trace Show, I sit down with Nina Purewal, the founder of Pure Minds and the international bestselling co-author of Let That Sh* t Go. We dive deep into what it really takes to let go, from breaking free of negative self-talk to facing imposter syndrome head on. Nina shares her journey from the corporate grind to mindfulness and leadership, and we explore how awareness is the first step toward change. Together, we talk about the importance of creating psychological safety at work, how managers shape the entire culture of a company, and why reframing your thoughts can literally rewire your brain. Along the way, I share some of my own stories about parenting, catching myself in old thought patterns, and learning to separate what I can control from what I can’t. This conversation is full of practical tools, real stories, and a reminder that if we can clear out the mental clutter and let go of what doesn’t serve us, we can make space for growth, purpose, and joy.

In this episode of The Sean Trace Show , I sit down with astrophysicist and professor Erika Hamden for an incredible conversation about curiosity, failure, and finding joy in the process of discovery. Erika has dedicated her life to exploring the universe, from building telescopes to studying the stars, but what stood out most in our talk was her wisdom on how science mirrors life. We discussed why asking the right questions matters, how to separate your identity from being “right,” and why failure is not the end. Erika also shared personal stories about the movies, mentors, and moments that shaped her career, and how role models made the impossible suddenly feel real. If you’ve ever wondered how to stay curious, embrace mistakes, and push through the unknown, this episode will inspire you to keep reaching for your own stars.

In this episode of The Sean Trace Show , I sit down with leadership expert and author Julie Winkle Giulioni to explore what it really means to grow, both as individuals and as leaders. Julie shares why intentionality matters in every decision we make, how small choices can shift the entire trajectory of our lives, and why leadership today is less about titles and more about earning trust. We dive into creating psychologically safe workplaces, building authentic partnerships between leaders and teams, and rethinking growth beyond the corporate ladder. This conversation is packed with insights on leadership, personal growth, career development, and living with purpose. If you’re a leader, aspiring leader, or someone who wants to live more intentionally, this episode will inspire and challenge you to rethink what growth really means.

In this episode of The Sean Trace Show , I speak with Tyler Clark, co-founder of Zawadie, a company turning refugee camps into places of opportunity. Tyler shares stories of resilience from people who, despite living on as little as $7 a month, remain hopeful and generous. We dive into how Zawadie connects skilled refugees with U.S. companies, creating real jobs in customer service, tech, and more. In under a year, they’ve already helped over 220 refugees escape poverty and build brighter futures. This conversation is about more than business. It’s about dignity, hope, and proving that profit and purpose can thrive together.

I sit down with astrobiology PhD student and astronaut hopeful Alyssa Carson for a real talk about what it actually takes to get space ready. We jump straight into facing fear and building courage, from skydiving when your body wants to freeze, to floating in microgravity and learning how to stay calm when everything is weightless. Alyssa walks me through a 9G jet turn that tunnels your vision to the size of a bottle cap, and how breathing, focus, and reps make the difference. We go inside the spacesuit, breaking down IVA suits you wear inside the spacecraft and EVA suits built to survive outside, and why water training helps you move and work when the suit feels heavy on Earth. We get practical too. What astronauts really eat in orbit, why bread is a no go because of crumbs, how tortillas solve that problem, and yes, how espresso can work in microgravity when an astronaut really loves coffee. We dive into her research on methane on Mars, why that signal matters, and what it could say about past microbial life. Alyssa shares the path to space careers in plain English, start with what you love doing, flying, building, experimenting, then stack skills, keep your grades strong, and look for programs, labs, and mentors that let you get your hands on real work. We talk about mindset during the long PhD grind, staying steady when progress feels slow, and using small wins to keep momentum. If you are a kid at heart who wants space, or a parent helping a kid aim high, this one gives you concrete steps, inside the suit details, and a clear picture of the courage and curiosity it takes to fly.

In this episode of The Sean Trace Show , I sit down with speaker and author Steve Gamlin to talk about designing a life that actually fits you. We dig into vision boards that go beyond cars and cash, building habits one small action at a time, and why measurable goals matter. Steve opens up about losing his wife, how he is processing grief with honesty and humor, and the simple daily practices that keep you moving forward, gratitude, acts of kindness, and showing up. If you need a blueprint for resilience, clarity, and purpose, this conversation delivers practical steps you can start today.

In this episode of The Sean Trace Show , I sit down with Maynard Okereke, also known as the Hip Hop MD. We dive into why science literacy matters more now than ever, how curiosity fuels discovery, and how merging pop culture with science can inspire the next generation. Maynard shares his journey breaking into science communication, the challenges of representation in STEM, and why empowering kids to think critically changes everything. We talk about my daughter’s journey learning science, the first Vietnamese woman in space, and how we can bring back the “wow factor” of discovery. If you’ve ever felt that science was out of reach, this conversation will show you—it belongs to everyone.

In this episode of The Sean Trace Show , I had the honor of speaking with Dr. Doug Tallamy, a leading entomologist and ecologist who's changing the way we see our backyards. We explored why insects are absolutely essential to life on Earth, how lawns are destroying biodiversity, and what each of us can do to make a difference, starting with our own homes. Dr. Tallamy shared powerful insights about native plants, the food web, and how we can all become part of what he calls a “Homegrown National Park.” This conversation left me inspired and reminded me that even small steps can create huge change. If you’ve ever wondered how to help the planet, this episode will show you where to start.

In this episode, I sit down with Carolina Ramuski, a holistic nutritionist and sleep expert, to explore how sleep affects every part of our lives. We talk about parenting, brain health, circadian rhythms, and how small habits like morning sunlight and screen-free evenings can transform your rest. Carolina shares wisdom from her experience in naturopathic nutrition and sleep science, and we dive into how our bodies send signals we often miss. From baby sleep routines to ancestral diets, this episode is packed with practical tools for anyone who wants to sleep better and live healthier. Whether you're a tired parent, a stressed student, or just trying to feel more energized, this conversation is for you.

In this episode of The Sean Trace Show, I sit down with behavioral scientist and author Mike Rucker to unpack the myths of hustle culture, burnout, and toxic productivity. We explore the real science of happiness and why fun is essential—not optional—for success. From the power of reframing your time to the emotional toll of hyper-productivity, this conversation offers practical strategies to bring more joy, balance, and sustainability into daily life. If you’ve ever felt like you’re working nonstop but still falling behind, this one’s for you.

In this deeply moving and powerful episode of The Sean Trace Show, I sit down with Monica Brown, an “architect of transformation” from Johannesburg, South Africa. Monica opens up about her courageous journey—from surviving sexual assault and a forced marriage, to living on the streets with her daughter. But instead of letting that pain define her, she turned it into purpose. Today, she runs a safe house and mentors vulnerable people, using empathy, structure, and fierce love to help rebuild lives. This conversation is a masterclass in resilience, spiritual leadership, and what it means to believe in someone when they can’t believe in themselves.

In this powerful conversation, I sit down with former NASA rocket scientist Kevin J. DeBruin to explore his inspiring journey—from being a bullied kid to becoming a rocket designer. Kevin shares how the movie October Sky changed the course of his life, why STEM education is essential for every child, and how we can ignite the next generation of innovators. We also dive into the incredible science behind NASA’s mission to Jupiter’s moon Europa. From real-world resilience to alien oceans, this episode is a mind-expanding deep dive into dreaming big, failing forward, and building the future.

In this episode of The Sean Trace Show , social media entrepreneur Asher Dahlgren, the founder of Dahlgren Social, shares his journey of building a successful social media agency at just 17 years old. Asher dives into how Gen Z’s natural fluency in social media gives them a business advantage, the mindset shifts necessary for success, and how small businesses can dominate online marketing. Sean and Asher also explore the importance of overcoming imposter syndrome, why young entrepreneurs should “just start”, and how stepping into discomfort is the key to long-term growth. If you're interested in social media, business, or breaking into entrepreneurship at a young age, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

What happens when the life you have built no longer feels like the right fit? In this episode I sit down with Tom Morgan founder of The Leading Edge to explore the challenges of reinvention the hero’s journey and how the universe gives us subtle nudges if we are willing to notice them. Tom shares his own transition from Wall Street to a more meaningful path why high achievers often struggle with change and how trusting the unknown can lead to unexpected opportunities. We also dive into the idea of the “Universe Wink” those moments where life seems to align just when we need it most. If you have ever felt stuck or unsure of your next step this conversation might just be the sign you are looking for.

In this episode of The Sean Trace Show , I had the pleasure of welcoming Bas Lebesque, a leadership coach from the Netherlands with an incredibly diverse background. From executive coaching and finance to stand-up comedy and even organizing funerals, Bas has had a fascinating journey. He shared how he went from working 100-hour weeks in the hospitality industry to becoming a high-powered trader and, ultimately, transitioning to coaching as he searched for deeper meaning in his life. Bas and I dove deep into the psychology of self-sabotage and how shifting our mindset can help us embrace growth and change. He explained the power of stepping outside of our comfort zones, taking incremental steps toward transformation, and acting "as if"—embodying the role we want before we fully achieve it. Throughout our conversation, Bas highlighted the mental barriers that hold so many of us back, including fear, self-doubt, and perfectionism. He introduced the concept of the “saboteur” mindset and explained how recognizing our internal blockers can be the first step toward overcoming them. We also explored the placebo effect in personal success, the importance of putting ourselves in the right environment, and how adopting an adventurous mindset can unlock incredible opportunities. If you’ve ever struggled with self-doubt, felt stuck in your career, or simply needed a push to take action, this episode is packed with insights to help you break free from self-imposed limitations and start living with purpose.

In this episode of The Sean Trace Show, I sit down with Rachelle Berthelsen Davis, a violinist, conductor, professor of music, and passionate advocate for the transformative power of music. We explore the profound impact of music on the brain, emotional health, and cultural identity. Rachelle shares insights from her experiences as a musician and educator, discussing how music shapes lives through cognitive development, emotional therapy, and community connection. I reflect on my journey as a parent encouraging my daughter to embrace music and the importance of persistence and process in any endeavor. Together, we dive deep into the ways music transcends time, unites generations, and becomes a powerful tool for self-discovery and growth.