

The One You Feed | Personal Growth, Emotional Resilience & Purpose
Eric Zimmer
Build resilience. Cultivate self-compassion. Live with purpose. The One You Feed brings conversations with leading thinkers — James Clear, Susan Cain, Tara Brach, and more — to help you navigate life’s challenges and feed your good wolf. No perfection, just direction, insight, and the small, consistent actions that make a meaningful life.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Mar 27, 2026 • 41min
How a Little Becomes a Lot: A Real Coaching Session on Small Changes That Stick
In this special episode, Eric coaches a listener named Birgit as she rebuilds her daily routine after a long-term illness and her children leaving home. Together, they explore practical strategies for habit formation, focusing on starting with a consistent healthy habits. Using frameworks like SPAR and RENEW, they discuss breaking habits into small steps, planning ahead, and responding compassionately to setbacks. The conversation highlights the importance of structure, self-kindness, and progress over perfection, offering listeners actionable advice for building sustainable routines during life transitions.
Exciting News!!! Coming in March, 2026, my new book, How a Little Becomes a Lot: The Art of Small Changes for a More Meaningful Life is now available for pre-orders!
Key Takeaways:
Rebuilding life after a long-term illness and navigating changes in daily structure.
Establishing a consistent morning routine, focusing on a healthy breakfast habit.
The importance of specificity and simplicity in habit formation.
Strategies for reducing decision fatigue and avoiding procrastination.
The SPA framework: Specificity, Prompts, Alignment, and Resilience for habit building.
The RENEW framework for resetting habits after setbacks: Recognize, Embrace your Why, Neutralize emotional drama, Extract the lesson, and Walk forward.
The role of self-compassion and positive self-talk in maintaining habits.
The significance of small, manageable actions to overcome resistance.
The impact of environmental setup on habit formation and behavior.
Emphasizing progress over perfection in the journey of habit change.
For full show notes: click here!
If you enjoyed this episode, check out these other episodes:
Why Willpower Isn’t Enough: The Tiny Habits Method Explained with Dr. BJ Fogg
How to Create Elastic Habits that Adapt to Your Day with Stephen Guise
By purchasing products and/or services from our sponsors, you are helping to support The One You Feed, and we greatly appreciate it. Thank you!
This episode is sponsored by:
Shopify – The commerce platform that helps you build, grow, and manage your business all in one place. Start your $1/month trial at shopify.com/feed.
Pebl – an AI-powered platform that helps companies hire and manage global teams in 185+ countries. Get a free estimate at hipebl.ai
Brodo Broth: Shop the best broth on the planet with Brodo. Head to Brodo.com/TOYF for 20% off your first subscription order and use code TOYF for an additional $10 off.
Alma is on a mission to simplify access to high-quality, affordable mental health care. Visit helloalma.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 24, 2026 • 1h 1min
From Comfort Zones to Adventure Zones: The Journey of Personal Exploration with Alex Hutchinson
In this episode, Alex Hutchinson discusses moving from comfort zones to adventure zones and the journey of personal exploration. He delves into the human nature of exploration and fulfillment. Alex also explains how to find the balance between contentment and the drive to seek new experiences, the psychological benefits of embracing challenge, and the explore-exploit dilemma. He shares insights from his book “The Explorer’s Gene,” offering practical rules for meaningful exploration and emphasizing the importance of risk, effort, and play in leading a fulfilling life. The conversation encourages listeners to actively pursue novelty and growth, regardless of age or circumstance.
Exciting News!!! Coming in March, 2026, my new book, How a Little Becomes a Lot: The Art of Small Changes for a More Meaningful Life is now available for pre-orders!
Key Takeaways:
Exploration as a theme in both physical and metaphorical contexts.
The balance between contentment and the desire for new experiences.
The concept of the “explore-exploit dilemma” in decision-making.
The impact of age on the tendency to explore and seek novelty.
The importance of meaningful exploration and active engagement.
The psychological benefits of effortful and challenging activities.
The role of environmental factors in shaping attitudes toward risk and exploration.
The significance of play in fostering creativity and exploration.
Strategies for minimizing regret in decision-making.
The influence of personal experiences and choices on the capacity for exploration.
For full show notes: click here!
If you enjoyed this conversation with Alex Hutchinson, check out these other episodes:
Navigating Life’s Disruptions: Insights on Adapting and Thriving with James Patterson
How To Cultivate Excellence in a Chaotic World with Brad Stulberg
By purchasing products and/or services from our sponsors, you are helping to support The One You Feed, and we greatly appreciate it. Thank you!
This episode is sponsored by:
Shopify – The commerce platform that helps you build, grow, and manage your business all in one place. Start your $1/month trial at shopify.com/feed.
Pebl – an AI-powered platform that helps companies hire and manage global teams in 185+ countries. Get a free estimate at hipebl.ai
Brodo Broth: Shop the best broth on the planet with Brodo. Head to Brodo.com/TOYF for 20% off your first subscription order and use code TOYF for an additional $10 off.
Alma is on a mission to simplify access to high-quality, affordable mental health care. Visit helloalma.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 20, 2026 • 48min
Embracing Emotional Sobriety: Small Choices for Big Healing from Heartbreak and Anxiety with Laura McKowen
In this episode, Laura McKowen discusses embracing emotional sobriety and small choices for big healing from heartbreak and anxiety. Laura talks about her 11-year sobriety journey and her personal journal of navigating heartbreak. She delves into the daily choices that foster healing and emotional well-being. Laura also shares insights on the non-linear nature of recovery, the importance of small, consistent practices, and the role of relationships and self-compassion in emotional sobriety. Together, they explore how healing is an ongoing process, shaped by vulnerability, connection, and the willingness to embrace both pain and growth.
Exciting News!!! Coming in March, 2026, my new book, How a Little Becomes a Lot: The Art of Small Changes for a More Meaningful Life is now available for pre-orders!
Key Takeaways:
Personal journey of sobriety and its challenges
Managing anxiety and heartbreak after a significant relationship
The non-linear nature of emotional healing and recovery
The parable of the two wolves and its relevance to personal choices
Importance of daily practices for mental health maintenance
Concept of emotional sobriety and its distinction from mere survival
The role of relationships in emotional well-being and healing
Understanding attachment dynamics and their impact on relationships
The interplay between trauma, addiction, and relational patterns
Emphasizing self-forgiveness, compassion, and community support in healing processes
For full show notes: click here!
If you enjoyed this conversation with Laura McKowen, check out these other episodes:
Why Community and Courage Matter More Than Ever with Laura McKowen
A Journey to Self-Discovery and Sobriety with Matthew Quick
By purchasing products and/or services from our sponsors, you are helping to support The One You Feed, and we greatly appreciate it. Thank you!
This episode is sponsored by:
Pebl – an AI-powered platform that helps companies hire and manage global teams in 185+ countries. Get a free estimate at hipebl.ai
Brodo Broth: Shop the best broth on the planet with Brodo. Head to Brodo.com/TOYF for 20% off your first subscription order and use code TOYF for an additional $10 off.
Alma is on a mission to simplify access to high-quality, affordable mental health care. Visit helloalma.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 17, 2026 • 50min
Navigating Life's Disruptions: Insights on Adapting and Thriving with James Patterson
In this episode, James Patterson discusses navigating life’s disruptions and shares insights on adapting and thriving in life.. He also discusses managing negative thoughts and balancing ambition with contentment. James shares insights from his writing career, co-authoring experiences, and personal life, including parenting and the importance of prioritizing family, health, friends, and spirit. The conversation blends practical advice, engaging stories, and reflections on adapting to change, offering listeners inspiration and tools for navigating both personal and professional challenges.
Exciting News!!! Coming in March, 2026, my new book, How a Little Becomes a Lot: The Art of Small Changes for a More Meaningful Life is now available for pre-orders!
Key Takeaways:
Discussion of James Patterson’s new book, Disrupt Everything and Win: Take Control of Your Future.
Exploration of how individuals and organizations can adapt to change and leverage disruption.
The metaphor of the “two wolves” representing positive and negative qualities within individuals.
Insights into Patterson’s writing process and creative journey.
Reflections on co-writing experiences with various collaborators.
The balance between ambition and contentment in personal and professional life.
The importance of storytelling and practical tools in business and self-help contexts.
Patterson’s early career in advertising and its influence on his writing and approach to disruption.
The significance of maintaining balance in life, using the metaphor of juggling five balls.
Personal anecdotes and reflections on travel, parenting, and life philosophy.
For full show notes: click here!
If you enjoyed this conversation with James Patterson, check out these other episodes:
How to Find Real Life in Stories with George Saunders
Life Transitions with Bruce Feiler
By purchasing products and/or services from our sponsors, you are helping to support The One You Feed, and we greatly appreciate it. Thank you!
This episode is sponsored by:
Pebl – an AI-powered platform that helps companies hire and manage global teams in 185+ countries. Get a free estimate at hipebl.ai
Brodo Broth: Shop the best broth on the planet with Brodo. Head to Brodo.com/TOYF for 20% off your first subscription order and use code TOYF for an additional $10 off.
Alma is on a mission to simplify access to high-quality, affordable mental health care. Visit helloalma.com to learn more! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 13, 2026 • 59min
The Best Path to Authentic Happiness: Embracing Spiritual Minimalism with Light Watkins
In this episode, Light Watkins explores the best path to authentic happiness and embracing spiritual minimalism. Light defines spiritual minimalism and delves into the importance of leaving every place better than you found it. The conversation explores authenticity, happiness, stress, embracing discomfort, and the value of consistent, small actions. Light also shares personal stories and practical wisdom on finding freedom in limitations, giving what you want to receive, and focusing on process over outcomes to create a more meaningful, present, and fulfilled life.
Take our quick 2-minute survey and help us improve your listening experience: oneyoufeed.net/survey
Exciting News!!! Coming in March, 2026, my new book, How a Little Becomes a Lot: The Art of Small Changes for a More Meaningful Life is now available for pre-orders!
Key Takeaways:
The parable of the two wolves and the importance of choosing the “good wolf” or authentic self.
The concept of spiritual minimalism and its principles, including leaving places better than found.
The significance of final impressions in interactions and their lasting impact.
The relationship between happiness, income, and stress, emphasizing internal versus external sources of fulfillment.
The paradox of motivation and the importance of consistent effort for personal growth.
The idea of finding freedom within limitations and the power of acceptance in challenging situations.
The principle of “give what you want to receive” and its role in fostering community and connection.
The importance of embracing discomfort for personal growth and stepping outside comfort zones.
The value of being process-oriented and focusing on the journey rather than just outcomes.
The significance of consistent effort and incremental change in achieving lasting transformation.
For full show notes: click here!
If you enjoyed this conversation with Light Watkins, check out these other episodes:
How to Embrace Mindfulness on the Path to Personal Growth with Dan Harris
How to Let Go of Expectations and Transform Disappointment into Growth with Christine Hassler
By purchasing products and/or services from our sponsors, you are helping to support The One You Feed, and we greatly appreciate it. Thank you!
This episode is sponsored by:
Hello Fresh – Get 10 free meals + a FREE Zwilling Knife (a $144.99 value) on your third box. Offer valid while supplies last.
David Protein bars deliver up to 28g of protein for just 150 calories—without sacrificing taste! For a limited time, our listeners can receive this special deal: buy 4 cartons and get the 5th free when you go to www.davidprotein.com/FEED
Shopify – The commerce platform that helps you build, grow, and manage your business all in one place. Start your $1/month trial at shopify.com/feed.
Pebl – an AI-powered platform that helps companies hire and manage global teams in 185+ countries. Get a free estimate at hipebl.ai
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 10, 2026 • 1h 1min
Procrastination: The Hidden Pain Behind Your Limiting Beliefs with Nir Eyal
In this episode, Nir Eyal, author of Beyond Belief explores procrastination and the hidden pain behind your limiting beliefs. He explains how beliefs shape our perception of reality, motivation, and behavior.. He also shares how beliefs are flexible tools, not absolute truths, and that changing limiting beliefs can reduce suffering and unlock personal growth. The conversation covers the brain’s filtering of reality, the motivational triangle (behavior, desire, belief), and practical strategies for reframing beliefs to overcome procrastination, manage discomfort, and foster well-being. Nir emphasizes using science-backed methods to intentionally choose beliefs that empower and support lasting change.
Take our quick 2-minute survey and help us improve your listening experience: oneyoufeed.net/survey
Exciting News!!! Coming in March, 2026, my new book, How a Little Becomes a Lot: The Art of Small Changes for a More Meaningful Life is now available for pre-orders!
Key Takeaways:
The nature of beliefs and their impact on perception and reality.
The distinction between beliefs as flexible tools versus absolute truths.
The role of beliefs in motivation and behavior change.
The motivational triangle: behavior, desire, and belief.
The influence of beliefs on health, longevity, and personal growth.
The concept of pain versus suffering and how beliefs affect this distinction.
The importance of exposure therapy in overcoming limiting beliefs.
The relationship between beliefs and procrastination as a pain management issue.
Strategies for identifying and changing limiting beliefs.
The significance of adopting empowering beliefs to enhance well-being and life satisfaction.
For full show notes: click here!
If you enjoyed this conversation with Nir Eyal, check out these other episodes:
How to Master Internal Triggers and Regain Control of Your Attention with Nir Eyal
How to Overcome Procrastination with Tim Pychyl
By purchasing products and/or services from our sponsors, you are helping to support The One You Feed, and we greatly appreciate it. Thank you!
This episode is sponsored by:
David Protein bars deliver up to 28g of protein for just 150 calories—without sacrificing taste! For a limited time, our listeners can receive this special deal: buy 4 cartons and get the 5th free when you go to www.davidprotein.com/FEED
Hello Fresh – Get 10 free meals + a FREE Zwilling Knife (a $144.99 value) on your third box. Offer valid while supplies last.
Shopify – The commerce platform that helps you build, grow, and manage your business all in one place. Start your $1/month trial at shopify.com/feed.
Pebl – an AI-powered platform that helps companies hire and manage global teams in 185+ countries. Get a free estimate at hipebl.ai
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 6, 2026 • 1h 1min
From Overwhelm to Empowerment: Harnessing Tiny Shifts for Emotional Resilience with Elisha Goldstein
In this episode, Elisha Goldstein talks about how to go from overwhelm to empowerment by harnessing tiny shifts for emotional resilience. He explains how small, consistent changes, or “tiny shifts”, can break negative emotional loops and improve stress, relationships, and longevity. He shares personal stories, practical tools like the “four R’s” (Recognize, Release, Refocus, Reinforce), and emphasizes emotional awareness over willpower. The conversation offers accessible strategies for managing overwhelm and building resilience, encouraging listeners to make manageable changes that support emotional health in everyday life.
Take our quick 2-minute survey and help us improve your listening experience: oneyoufeed.net/survey
Exciting News!!! Coming in March, 2026, my new book, How a Little Becomes a Lot: The Art of Small Changes for a More Meaningful Life is now available for pre-orders!
Key Takeaways:
The concept of “tiny shifts” in emotional health and well-being.
The impact of modern life on emotional loops and chronic stress responses.
The importance of emotional awareness in breaking negative patterns.
The biological and psychological effects of “bracing” in response to perceived threats.
Strategies for interrupting emotional loops and fostering recovery.
The “four R’s” framework: Recognize, Release, Refocus, and Reinforce.
The role of self-compassion and supportive questioning in emotional management.
The significance of reinforcing positive emotional experiences for lasting change.
Practical applications and limitations of the discussed methods.
The relationship between emotional health, stress management, and longevity.
For full show notes: click here!
If you enjoyed this conversation with Elisha Goldstein, check out these other episodes:
Elisha Goldstein, Ph.D-Mindfulness and Depression
Jonathan Rottenberg
Florence Williams
By purchasing products and/or services from our sponsors, you are helping to support The One You Feed, and we greatly appreciate it. Thank you!
This episode is sponsored by:
Hello Fresh – Get 10 free meals + a FREE Zwilling Knife (a $144.99 value) on your third box. Offer valid while supplies last.
David Protein bars deliver up to 28g of protein for just 150 calories—without sacrificing taste! For a limited time, our listeners can receive this special deal: buy 4 cartons and get the 5th free when you go to www.davidprotein.com/FEED
Shopify – The commerce platform that helps you build, grow, and manage your business all in one place. Start your $1/month trial at shopify.com/feed.
Pebl – an AI-powered platform that helps companies hire and manage global teams in 185+ countries. Get a free estimate at hipebl.ai
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mar 3, 2026 • 1h 7min
Little Addictions, Big Impact: Transforming Your Habits for a Healthier Life with Catherine Gray
In this episode, Catherine Gray discusses her new book about “little addictions” and the big impact of transforming your habits for a healthier life. She explores how everyday compulsions like excessive screen time, snacking, or people pleasing are driven by ancient brain wiring and dopamine. Catherine shares practical strategies for managing these habits, emphasizing environmental changes, self-compassion, and shifting reward systems. The conversation highlights the importance of awareness, reframing language, and building mental strength, offering listeners actionable tools to regain control over their “tiny but mighty” compulsions and make more intentional choices.
Take our quick 2-minute survey and help us improve your listening experience: oneyoufeed.net/survey
Exciting News!!! Coming in March, 2026, my new book, How a Little Becomes a Lot: The Art of Small Changes for a More Meaningful Life is now available for pre-orders!
Key Takeaways:
Exploration of “little addictions” and their impact on daily life.
Discussion on the neuroscience of addiction, particularly the role of dopamine.
Examination of the difference between “little addictions” and clinical addictions.
Strategies for managing compulsive behaviors and creating healthier habits.
The importance of environmental factors in shaping behavior and habits.
Insights on the internal conflict between the impulsive limbic system and the self-regulating prefrontal cortex.
The concept of “dopamine shifting” to redirect reward systems toward healthier activities.
Personal anecdotes illustrating the challenges and successes in overcoming compulsions.
The significance of language in framing choices around habits and self-control.
Practical tools and apps to help manage technology and behavioral addictions.
For full show notes: click here!
If you enjoyed this conversation with Catherine Gray, check out these other episodes:
Understanding Identity and How Our Past Shapes Who We Become with Catherine Gray
Rethinking Addiction and Identity with Catherine Gray
By purchasing products and/or services from our sponsors, you are helping to support The One You Feed, and we greatly appreciate it. Thank you!
This episode is sponsored by:
Hello Fresh – Get 10 free meals + a FREE Zwilling Knife (a $144.99 value) on your third box. Offer valid while supplies last.
David Protein bars deliver up to 28g of protein for just 150 calories—without sacrificing taste! For a limited time, our listeners can receive this special deal: buy 4 cartons and get the 5th free when you go to www.davidprotein.com/FEED
Shopify – The commerce platform that helps you build, grow, and manage your business all in one place. Start your $1/month trial at shopify.com/feed.
Pebl – an AI-powered platform that helps companies hire and manage global teams in 185+ countries. Get a free estimate at hipebl.ai
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 27, 2026 • 55min
Unlocking the Power of Mindfulness: Transform Your Life One Story at a Time with Rohan Gunatillake
In this episode, Rohan Gunatillake discusses how to unlock the power of mindfulness and transform your life one story at a time. He explores how stories can shift perspectives, the challenges and opportunities in mindfulness apps, and shares ways to integrate meditation into daily life. He also shares insights on making mindfulness accessible, playful, and adaptable, emphasizing community, creativity, and the importance of small, consistent practices for personal growth. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of modern mindfulness and the value of finding meaning through both story and meditation.
Take our quick 2-minute survey and help us improve your listening experience: oneyoufeed.net/survey
Exciting News!!! Coming in March, 2026, my new book, How a Little Becomes a Lot: The Art of Small Changes for a More Meaningful Life is now available for pre-orders!
Key Takeaways:
Mindfulness and its role in personal growth.
The transformative power of storytelling in meditation.
The mechanics of storytelling as a tool for insight and perspective shifts.
The challenges and opportunities within the mindfulness app industry.
The concept of mobile mindfulness and integrating meditation into daily life.
The importance of community in sustaining mindfulness practice.
The “time problem” and accessibility of mindfulness for busy individuals.
The relationship between mindfulness and technology in modern life.
The significance of playful and creative approaches to mindfulness practice.
Understanding the core techniques of mindfulness to foster flexibility and creativity in practice.
For full show notes: click here!
If you enjoyed this conversation with Rohan Gunatillake, check out these other episodes:
Inner Freedom Through Mindfulness with Jack Kornfield
Effortless Mindfulness with Loch Kelly
By purchasing products and/or services from our sponsors, you are helping to support The One You Feed, and we greatly appreciate it. Thank you!
This episode is sponsored by:
Shopify – The commerce platform that helps you build, grow, and manage your business all in one place. Start your $1/month trial at shopify.com/feed.
Pebl – an AI-powered platform that helps companies hire and manage global teams in 185+ countries. Get a free estimate at hipebl.ai Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Feb 24, 2026 • 1h 6min
How To Be Intentional and Finish What You Start with Chris Bailey
In this episode, Chris Bailey discusses how to be intentional and finish what you start. He explores how intentionality, values, and motivation shape our ability to set and achieve meaningful goals. Chris also introduces concepts like the “intention stack” and “sepia-toned goals,” emphasizing the importance of aligning actions with core values. The conversation offers practical tools for editing goals, balancing planning with action, and cultivating both deliberate and default intentions to create a more purposeful, fulfilling life.
Take our quick 2-minute survey and help us improve your listening experience: oneyoufeed.net/survey
Exciting News!!! Coming in March, 2026, my new book, How a Little Becomes a Lot: The Art of Small Changes for a More Meaningful Life is now available for pre-orders!
Key Takeaways:
Importance of intentionality in achieving goals
Challenges of goal-setting and the concept of "sepia toned goals"
The "intention stack" framework connecting daily actions to broader values
Understanding and identifying personal values and their polarities
The role of desire and aversion in goal pursuit
The concept of "goal editing" to align goals with personal values
Distinction between outcome goals and process goals
The significance of the learning phase in goal attainment
Balancing planning and action to avoid productivity traps
Cultivating a positive relationship with goals to enhance motivation and fulfillment
For full show notes: click here!
If you enjoyed this conversation with Chris Bailey, check out these other episodes:
How to Break Free from the ‘More’ Trap and Find Balance in a Busy Life with Chris Bailey
Chris Bailey on Focus, Productivity, and Meditation (2018)
Getting Things Done with Charlie Gilkey
David Kadavy on Getting Started
By purchasing products and/or services from our sponsors, you are helping to support The One You Feed and we greatly appreciate it. Thank you!
This episode is sponsored by:
Shopify – The commerce platform that helps you build, grow, and manage your business all in one place. Start your $1/month trial at shopify.com/feed.
Pebl – an AI-powered platform that helps companies hire and manage global teams in 185+ countries. Get a free estimate at hipebl.ai Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices


