In this episode, I challenge the idea that more input always leads to better outcomes. Counterintuitive? Maybe. But stick with me for 20 minutes, and this might be the episode you can’t unhear for the rest of the year.
🚀 What We Cover:
• Why listening less (yes, less) might be the key to your best year yet
• How external voices—whether from social media, coworkers, or even well-meaning family—can derail your focus and confidence
• The unexpected lesson from equine therapy at Miraval Resort that completely shifted my perspective
• How tuning out more could make you a better friend, partner, and creative thinker
• The personal goals Tim is tackling in 2025—including a New York Times bestseller and a school with 200+ students
🔥 Key Takeaway:
The more you listen, the more you absorb expectations that aren’t yours. But if you listen less—strategically—you might just hear yourself more clearly.
👂 Give yourself the gift of quiet. Hit play, and then maybe… tune out.
👉 If this episode resonates, let me know: @timmchiusano on Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
--------
22:04
How To Build Iconic NYC Restaurants
My conversation with a new friend and fellow NYC dad, John McDonald, one of New York City's longest-standing and most successful restaurateurs. From inside his flagship restaurant, Lure Fishbar in Soho, we chat about the potential closure after 20 years due to Prada's real estate interests. John shares his journey from Phoenix to New York, establishing Merc Bar in 1993 and later opening Lure Fish Bar in 2004. The conversation reveals that Lure serves 350-400 people on busy nights and is one of the city's largest oyster sellers. McDonald discusses his management philosophy, the challenges of running restaurants in NYC, and his approach to menu development. The interview also touches on personal aspects, including how McDonald teaches his children about food and his interest in wellness practices like the 12-hour silent walk concept.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
--------
1:08:00
The Worst First Semester Ever
The lows that can come with a first semester at college. How I found myself living alone in Fredericton, New Brunswick, drinking SoCo & Tang, eating KFC family meals solo, getting beat up at a hockey tryout, and watching Mighty Ducks 3 in the theater several times (also solo).
Proof that a horrible start at school doesn't mean anything other than potentially making for a great story further down the road.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
--------
35:37
The New Guy
Jim Keyes is one of the most fascinating and admirable CEO's in the history of corporate America and someone we can all learn from. His humble beginnings are staggering, his career is aspirational, and his wisdom is Yoda-esque in the corporate world.
My confidence has been one of the biggest challenges over the past 152 days since I left my corporate job. The opportunity to spend a bit of time with my friend (who I have been calling "The New Guy" since we first collaborated on TikTok together) is always a treat, and I knew he would have some fantastic insights on the topic of confidence and the state of the world overall. He is the former 7-11, and Blockbuster CEO and author of "Education Is Freedom". If you ever hear him speak or pick up his book, the broader lessons you can learn are invaluable. Jim truly came from humble beginnings, and it is my absolute pleasure to share this conversation with you.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
--------
44:54
Your Best Hot Mess
Summary
In this conversation, let me reflect on how I am in the current state of being a 'hot mess' and embrace the idea that everyone is a hot mess in their own way. I discuss the challenges and conundrums of transitioning to a new phase in life, such as sustainability and finding a balance between change and stability. I am also happy to share the progress made, including spending more time with my daughter and trying to bring my vision for helpful content to life. I will happily explore the importance of accepting and understanding one's flaws and shortcomings and emphasize the need to learn and improve continuously.
Keywords
hot mess, transition, challenges, sustainability, balance, progress, flaws, shortcomings, learning, improvement
Takeaways
Embrace your own 'hot mess' and accept that everyone has flaws and challenges.
Find a balance between change and stability in order to navigate transitions effectively.
Reflect on your progress and celebrate the milestones you have achieved.
Be aware of your shortcomings and strive to improve and learn from them.
Continuously seek to understand what 'good' looks like for you and work towards that vision.
Titles
Embracing Your Best Hot Mess
Celebrating Progress and Milestones
Sound Bites
"We're supposed to be our best hot mess."
"How much change is enough, how much needs to stay?"
"Being addicted to cereal... embracing your flaws."
Chapters
00:00
Embracing Your Best Hot Mess
02:28
Navigating the Challenges of Transition
09:24
Celebrating Progress and Milestones
20:35
Addressing and Learning from Shortcomings
23:23
Striving for a Clear Vision of 'Good'
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Ireland