The Mindful Startup

What if the future explains more than the past?Most of us try to make sense of our lives by looking backward — connecting dots, analyzing decisions, and searching for clarity in what’s already happened. But what if that’s the wrong approach?In this episode, I explore a different lens:what if the direction you’re moving in actually explains more than where you’ve been?We talk about:Why looking to the future can be more useful than analyzing the past How to recognize patterns and “coincidences” in your life earlier Why your brain is already wired for pattern recognition (and how to use it) How this mindset helps you move faster and trust your decisionsA new way to break out of overthinking and analysis paralysisBecause sometimes…the future is what makes the past make sense.And once you start paying attention to direction instead of just explanation, everything begins to shift.

Why do you spiral after taking action?You finally post the video, send the email, or show up the way you know you need to — and instead of feeling proud, you start overthinking everything. You question how you came across, whether it reflected your standards, and whether you just “hurt your brand.”In this episode, we break down the hidden reason behind that feeling: identity conflict and perfectionism.You’ll learn:Why high performers struggle with “identity hangovers” after taking action What’s really happening when you go into “brand protection mode” Why your standards aren’t the problem — your measurement of them isHow to stop freezing and start executing consistentlyThe mindset shift that allows you to grow your brand without feeling like you’re compromising itThis episode is for anyone building something — a business, a personal brand, or a new version of themselves — who feels stuck between who they are, who they want to be, and how they show up in the world.Because the truth is:Your brand is not defined by one moment.It’s built over time.And the more you show up, the more powerful it becomes.

Most people build private power—and never apply it.In this episode, I break down the difference between private power (potential) and applied power (action), and why nothing changes until your power becomes visible.If you’ve been doing the work but not seeing results, this is what’s missing.

Do you feel responsible for fixing other people’s problems? In this episode, we talk about overresponsibility, people-pleasing, overwhelm, and how to stop carrying what was never yours to manage. This episode explores why trying to solve everything for everyone can drain your mental energy, create resentment, and pull you away from your own health, work, and priorities. We talk about the “open tabs” problem, how to stop over-managing relationships, and why not every uncomfortable situation needs to be fixed. The goal is to help you set better boundaries, let go of what you cannot control, and come back to yourself. Overresponsibility and people-pleasing are both associated with stress, exhaustion, resentment, and weak boundaries, which makes those terms especially relevant here. 

Enjoy

In Episode 112 of The Mindful Startup, we’re talking about proximity — and why it may matter more than talent.Most opportunities don’t come from merit alone. They come from being in the right rooms, around the right people, and clear about what you’re building.In this episode, we cover: • Why proximity accelerates success • How environment shapes ambition • Why silence kills opportunity • And how to choose your ecosystem carefullyYour environment is not neutral. Proximity determines trajectory.

Why do some high achievers feel the need to be exceptional — not just good, not even perfect, but untouchable?In this episode of The Mindful Startup Podcast, we explore the psychology behind exceptionalism, perfectionism, and the drive to be undeniable. For many ambitious founders and creators, high achievement isn’t about ego — it’s about safety.When you’ve been doubted, dismissed, or made to question yourself, excellence can become emotional armor.But is striving to be exceptional helping you build… or quietly keeping you stuck?In this episode, we cover:How exceptionalism can function as a trauma responseThe link between ambition and controlWhy ordinary, consistent work can feel unsafeHow perfectionism stalls progressThe shift from “I must be exceptional” to “I am a steady builder”Ambition isn’t the problem. But when it’s fueled by survival, it can prevent momentum.

What does it take to become a true “visionary”? Let’s discuss.

If you’re only speaking in ways that feel safe to the people around you, you’re likely not speaking in your real voice.In " Stop Speaking Safely: How to Find and Use Your Real Voice," episode 109 of The Mindful Startup Podcast, we explore what it actually means to find and use your true voice — not the filtered or palatable version, but the one that feels aligned, grounded, and fulfilling to express.We break down the two-step process for developing your voice: deeply understanding yourself (including the traits you may avoid or judge), and practicing self-expression in environments that feel safe to your nervous system. This episode is about alignment, clarity, and learning to express ideas without performing, posturing, or self-censoring.

In this first episode of 2026, we’re talking about something subtle, powerful, and often underestimated: intuition.There is a quiet kind of magic that happens when you trust your gut — when you make decisions before you have evidence, when you go against consensus, and when you stop outsourcing your power to other people’s opinions. This episode is about learning to recognize that internal signal and using it as a strategic advantage.We explore why intuition is not random or mystical, but a form of deep intelligence — one that becomes stronger the more you practice it. From business decisions and opportunities, to people, timing, and everyday choices, following the vibes consistently leads to more aligned outcomes and fewer regrets.You’ll learn:Why ignoring your intuition almost always leads to misalignmentHow intuition connects you to your most capable, sovereign selfSimple ways to practice trusting your gut in low-stakes situationsWhy logic alone will only take you so far — and what takes you furtherIf 2026 is the year you want to move with clarity, confidence, and precision — this episode is your reminder to listen to what you already know.Thank you for being part of The Mindful Startup. I’m so glad you’re here.

Enjoy

Off the cuff. How to have a peaceful holiday season!

Episode 105 of The Mindful Startup explores a truth most ambitious people never hear:You do not need perfect energy, perfect health, or perfect circumstances to build real momentum toward your goals. You only need to use the windows you do have—and stop waiting for the imaginary “perfect moment” that never comes.In this episode, Hannah shares her experience navigating long COVID, chronic fatigue, and a newly uncovered autoimmune disorder, and how these challenges reframed her entire relationship with productivity and ambition.This is a powerful reminder for founders, creatives, and high achievers who don’t always wake up feeling energized or invincible. You are not behind. You are not alone. And you are far more capable than you think—even on the days when you're operating at 20%.Why waiting for “high energy days” keeps you stuckHow to take meaningful action when you’re tired, hurting, or overwhelmedThe truth about ambition when you're dealing with chronic fatigue, trauma, or autoimmune symptomsWhy your progress counts even when it’s imperfectHow to set yourself up to take fast action the moment inspiration hitsThe myth of the “superhuman entrepreneur,” and why realistic, sustainable momentum winsWhy pros “play hurt”—and what that looks like for foundersYou don’t need to feel amazing to make meaningful progress.Your lower-energy self is still capable of brilliance.Success is built from imperfect action, not perfect conditions.You are probably producing at a higher level than you think, even on your hardest days.You deserve to reach your goals—tired, hurting, sad, human and all.Anyone dealing with chronic fatigue, long COVID, autoimmune symptoms, or energy fluctuationsFounders, creatives, side hustlers, and overachievers who feel "behind"High performers who believe progress only counts when it’s perfectAnyone who needs permission to create anyway

In this episode of The Mindful Startup, we talk about one of the most confusing and emotional side effects of personal growth: changing relationships.As you become more grounded in who you are, clarify your values, and raise your standards, friendships and relationship dynamics often begin to shift. Some drift naturally. Others feel harder to maintain. And sometimes, it can be deeply lonely—even when you know you’re growing in the right direction.We explore why personal growth often leads to outgrowing friendships, how to let go of guilt when relationships change, and how to stop taking distance, lack of response, or exclusion personally. Drawing inspiration from Mel Robbins’ Let Them philosophy, this episode reframes changing friendships as a natural season of life—not a failure or a rejection.You’ll learn: • Why self-growth changes relationship dynamics • How to release unrealistic expectations in friendships • Why people’s behavior is usually about capacity, not you • How to “let them” without resentment or self-blame • Why no relationship is meant to meet every emotional needIf you’ve ever felt confused, hurt, or isolated as you’ve evolved, this episode will help you understand what’s happening—and move forward with more clarity and self-respect.

Feeling disconnected from yourself? In this episode, Hannah shares three powerful techniques to help you remember who you are, reconnect with your identity, and tap back into your natural confidence and motivation. Learn how to revisit your most powerful moments, gather “identity evidence,” protect your energy, and reignite the version of you who is bold, ambitious, and fully alive.

Episode 103 — The Mindful Startup PodcastIf you’ve spent years being the fixer, the supporter, the emotional backbone for everyone else—this episode is your wake-up call.Today, we’re talking about what happens when you unintentionally become a supporting character in someone else’s movie…and how to reclaim your identity, your energy, and your power.You’ll learn:Why chronic over-giving becomes a subconscious habit rooted in childhoodThe subtle signs you’ve slipped into codependent dynamics without noticingHow one-sided relationships drain your energy, confidence, and life forceWhy people who mistreat others end up rewarded while the supportive ones are ignoredThe moment you realize you’ve abandoned yourself—and how to come back homeAnd then, the core of today’s episode:Rediscover who you are when no one else is aroundLearn how to strip away roles, obligations, and other people’s needs to reconnect with your authentic identity.Identify your soul-level goalNot a goal that keeps someone else alive…A goal that lights you up.Make your dreams non-negotiableHow to stop letting other people’s chaos interrupt your purpose.Do more of what nourishes your independenceThe truth about treating yourself like the prize—without guilt.Audit the people who deplete youHow to recognize resentment, emotional exhaustion, and toxic reciprocity patterns.Work on the deeper roots of codependencyWhy therapy, boundaries, and internal work are essential to becoming the main character again.By the end of this episode, you’ll know exactly how to reclaim your energy, your time, and your life path—and step into the role you were always meant to play.The 6 Steps to Reclaiming Your Main Character Identity

Feeling uninspired or stuck in the loop of “normal”? This episode dives into why sometimes you need to do something a little unhinged to wake yourself up again. Hannah Barris, host of The Mindful Startup, explores bold, unconventional ways to break free from monotony, reclaim your main character energy, and create a life that actually excites you.

Perfectionism kills creativity. In this episode, Hannah Maria Barris dives into how to stop judging your work, silence self-doubt, and unlock your best ideas. Whether you’re building a startup, writing, or creating content, learn how trusting the process leads to success beyond your control.

Power has been misunderstood for too long. In this special 100th episode, The Mindful Startup Podcast challenges the idea that power corrupts—and explores how authentic power heals, elevates, and expands.Hannah Barris unpacks why so many ambitious people feel fear around their own strength, how past experiences with control or manipulation can distort our relationship with power, and how to finally embody it in a way that uplifts you and those around you.You’ll learn what owning your power truly looks like in business, relationships, and everyday life—and why the right people will always want to amplify, not restrain, your light.

Most ambitious people aren’t failing because they’re lazy or unmotivated—they’re failing because they’re overthinking.In this episode of The Mindful Startup Podcast, Hannah Barris unpacks why high-achieving perfectionists struggle to take action on their goals, and how the people who seem to “effortlessly succeed” are actually winning by thinking lessand doing more.You’ll learn:Why overthinking and perfectionism keep ambitious people stuckHow to release limiting “Type A” or “Type B” identitiesThe mindset shift that separates achievers from dreamersThe power of the “Don’t Think, Just Do” mantraHow small daily actions compound into massive success (the 1% rule)If you’ve ever felt paralyzed by perfectionism or trapped in your head, this episode will help you take imperfect action, move faster, and finally build the life and business you want.

Again and again and again. This one’s raw, unfiltered, and vulnerable. For you if you’ve ever taken the responsibility for everyone around you— except for yourself.

You don’t need permission, reassurance, or validation to chase your goals—you need self-trust. In this episode of The Mindful Startup Podcast, Hannah Barris shares why relying on others for confidence keeps you stuck, how to stop pouring energy into “dead plants,” and practical ways to redirect your focus back into yourself. Learn how to build momentum, create lasting habits, and finally go all in on your vision.

A quick video recorded on TikTok.

Off-the-cuff style episode as I’m still abroad 🫶🏻 Enjoy.

Voice Memo Style, brought to you from the beach on vacation

Are you still holding onto the identity of “someone with potential”?In this episode of The Mindful Startup Podcast, we explore the quiet trap of being praised for potential—and why it can keep you stuck. From childhood affirmations to adult expectations, Hannah breaks down how the identity of someone who could be great can hold you back from actually becoming great.We dive into:Why the world often prefers potential over realized powerHow staying in “potential” protects you from rejection and discomfortThe identity shift required to step fully into your purpose and become who you’re meant to beThis episode is a powerful call to stop waiting for permission, let go of needing to be understood, and finally step into the actualized version of your dreams.

Success isn’t always comforting. Sometimes, the moment things start working is when fear kicks in the hardest. In this mini episode, I share a quick story about growth, pressure, and why giving yourself permission to mess up is the only way forward.

EPISODE 94: How to Think 100x – Vision, Resourcefulness & Scaling with Dr. Sikandar “Sam” MalikWhat does it take to rise from limited resources to building multimillion-dollar businesses across three continents?In this powerful episode, I sit down with Dr. Sikandar "Sam" Malik—Senior Executive at Orbia, serial entrepreneur, and author of 100X Vision—to explore how bold vision, resourcefulness, and relentless drive can shatter even the most rigid circumstances. From his early days on farmland in Pakistan to building hotels, construction firms, and engineering assets across the U.S. and Canada, Sam shares not just what he’s built, but how—including the mindsets and systems that made it possible.We talk about:How to move from linear to exponential thinkingBuilding your vision when you have nothingScaling companies by challenging conventional timelinesLeading top talent through high-pressure innovationWhy resourcefulness > resourcesThe three things to stop doing now if you want to scaleAnd the exact steps to apply 100X Vision to your own journeyThis episode is a must-listen if you're dreaming bigger than your circumstances and ready to make it real.👉 Free Download: Sam has generously gifted all listeners a free copy of his book 100X Vision. You can download it here: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Zk-jjclcvlIs4oKgJkzz6URXWVxNbdNO/view?usp=share_linkIf this conversation moved you, rate the podcast 5 stars, share it with a visionary in your life, and keep building something that matters.

When the hustle pauses and everything goes quiet, your inner critic gets loud. In this solo episode, Hannah unpacks why stillness can trigger a surge of self-doubt (“Am I too late?” “What if I really can’t do this?”) and how to disarm those thoughts before they derail you.In this episode you’ll discover:Why we unconsciously tie self-worth to productivity—and how that makes rest feel threatening.How to spot the exact limiting belief hiding beneath your fear of “doing nothing.”A simple 3 step “micro-win” ritual to break the spiral and reignite momentum in minutes.Tune in, take one aligned action, and prove to yourself (again) that you’re still on the rise. Share your takeaway on IG and tag @TheMindfulStartup !

Let’s talk about what to do when you don’t feel like showing up and making content.

A reminder that your doubt is lying and your power is real.

If you're being gossiped about, listen to this.

When everything goes wrong—tech failures, energy crashes, the unexpected chaos—it’s easy to take it as a sign to stop. But what if it’s a test? A moment designed to sharpen your grit and strengthen your momentum?In this short but powerful pep talk, I share what happened today when my original episode disappeared without warning—and how I chose to show up anyway. Because sometimes, the most important thing you can do is keep going, especially when you don’t feel ready.This is for the version of you who’s tired, discouraged, or thinking about giving up. You owe it to yourself to keep going. Even at 20%. That’s how success is built.

Comfort calls loudest when you’re close to breaking through.You’ve been here before. You’ll feel it if this one’s meant for you.

Raw, unfiltered wisdom. Enjoy.

Have you ever tried to be the bigger person—only to be met with silence, coldness, or cruelty?This episode is for anyone who has extended compassion, assumed the best, and given second, third, or even fourth chances... only to end up hurt all over again.In today’s episode, I’m sharing five powerful lessons to help you protect your peace in emotionally unbalanced relationships. Whether it’s a friend, partner, or family member who keeps stirring up chaos in your life, these lessons will help you reclaim your energy, set clear boundaries, and stop betraying yourself in the name of being “nice.”You’ll learn:Why kindness without boundaries isn’t kindness—it’s self-abandonmentHow to recognize when someone’s reappearing just to see if they still have accessWhy closure doesn’t always come from understanding—and what to do insteadHow to stop watering relationships you don’t want to growThe difference between generosity and emotional self-sacrificeThis isn’t about becoming bitter—it’s about becoming precise about who gets access to your energy, your softness, and your time.If you’ve ever felt drained, dismissed, or confused in a relationship—this one’s for you.

What if the reason you’re struggling with consistency, creativity, or momentum is because you’re working against your brain instead of with it?In this episode, Hannah unpacks the myth that structure and perfectionism are the only paths to success—and shares a powerful reframe on what it really means to be “prepared.” Drawing from personal stories and examples from leading creatives, she shows you how to tap into your own natural rhythm and discover what flow actually looks like for you.Whether you thrive in organized systems or spontaneous bursts of creativity, this conversation will help you stop resisting your process and start creating from a place of true alignment.You’ll learn:Why your “shoulds” are blocking your geniusThe difference between discipline and self-betrayalHow to identify your natural creative rhythm5 questions to help you unlock your flow stateThis episode is for the entrepreneurs, creators, and thinkers who are ready to stop fighting themselves—and start thriving.

Recording to you from a ferry in Croatia. 6 Tips to Create Content while you are traveling this Summer.

In today's episode, I'm sharing a powerful reminder: your needs matter—and you owe it to yourself to protect your peace. It’s so easy to slip into the habit of shrinking yourself to make life easier for others, but true success, calm, and joy start when you fill your own cup first. We’ll talk about why advocating for your needs isn’t selfish, how to reset your nervous system when life feels overwhelming, and small daily practices that can help you stay grounded, energized, and inspired. If you’ve been feeling drained, this episode is your permission to put yourself first and build a life rooted in peace, power, and joy.

In this episode, I sit down with my coach, Coach Patrick Donohue—former Division I athlete, educator, author, and the person who helped me transform my entire mindset around success, resilience, and achieving big goals.We dive deep into:Taking shots in the face of your goals (and why it's essential to success)How to handle rejection, recover after failure, and get back up strongerThe 3 critical questions to ask every time something goes wrongTangible strategies you can begin applying immediately to build momentumHow to set and achieve goals in a sustainable, powerful wayWhat makes the most successful people different—and how you can apply it to your lifeHow to stay sharp, fueled, and focused through the highs and lows of entrepreneurshipThe Four-Part Day framework for creating consistently great daysIf you’ve ever struggled with staying motivated, dealing with setbacks, or maintaining your energy during the emotional rollercoaster of building something big—this conversation will leave you re-energized, clear, and ready to go after your dreams with a sharper mindset.To work with Coach Pat, visit donohuelifecoaching.com.

Beauty at what cost? Unfiltered & raw reflections on beauty standards.

People talking behind your back? Trying to diminish your work, your light, or your reputation? Let them. Because every time they speak negatively about you, they’re not hurting you—they’re hurting themselves.In this fiery and empowering episode, I’m here to remind you: it’s not your job to fix their bitterness, defend your name, or dim your shine to make them comfortable. Their gossip, judgment, and toxicity say everything about them and nothing about you.We’ll talk about:The energetic cost of tearing someone else downWhy gossip is self-inflicted poisonThe difference between momentary jealousy and intentional bullyingHow to protect your power without confrontationWhat to do when it's people close to youThis is your invitation to show up louder, prouder, and brighter than ever—because you were never meant to play small for people who were never going to clap for you anyway.💡 Reminder: Their obsession with you is not your responsibility. Protect your energy, stay focused on your path, and let their self-destruction be their own."Let Them" inspiration from Mel Robbin's new book, "Let Them"!

In this episode of The Mindful Startup Podcast, I reflect on something a founder shared with me during a recent interview about the all-too-common experience of low confidence days. It's easy to get wrapped up in those moments of self-doubt, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone in feeling this way—and that everyone, no matter how successful, has faced similar struggles.I talk about how we often internalize these low confidence days and let them define us, when in reality, they don’t say anything about our worth or capabilities. The key takeaway? Success is not defined by your low moments, but by how you respond to them.I also challenge you to shift your focus from the “self-doubt pile” to the “evidence pile”—those moments, interactions, and confirmations that prove you have everything you need to succeed. Don’t let a moment of insecurity define you.Stay tuned for the upcoming episode with the founder where we’ll dive deeper into this topic and explore how to navigate those tough days. You've got this!

If you’ve ever felt like you were watering yourself down to be liked—this episode is for you. In just a few minutes, I’m walking you through 3 powerful steps to go from palatable to unforgettable. We’re talking about speaking up, owning your truth, and finally letting yourself be seen—no more shrinking. This is your permission to take up space.

Have you ever felt stuck—like no matter how much you try to move forward, something keeps holding you back? Maybe it’s a relationship, a pattern, or the fear of putting yourself first. In this episode, I open up about the power of setting boundaries, letting go of codependency, and shifting your energy back to yourself so you can finally thrive.We’ll talk about:✅ How to recognize when you’re giving too much to others at your own expense✅ Why you cannot save someone who refuses to help themselves✅ The power of setting hard boundaries and prioritizing your own growth✅ How Internal Family Systems (IFS) Therapy can help you uncover subconscious patterns (and how to use ChatGPT to guide you through it!)✅ Why choosing yourself isn’t selfish—it’s necessary for success and happinessPlus, I’ll share the book that changed my life (Codependency No More by Melody Beattie) and how doing the deep inner work can help you redirect your energy toward your goals, your career, and the life you actually want.💡 Resources & Mentions:Codependency No More by Melody BeattieLet Them Theory (book recommendation)Internal Family Systems (IFS) TherapyChatGPT for self-reflection & trauma workIf this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend who needs to hear it, tag me on social media, or DM me—I’d love to hear your thoughts! 💛🎧 Listen now and start choosing YOU.⚠️ Disclaimer: I am not a therapist, counselor, or licensed mental health professional. Everything I share in this episode is based on my personal experiences and insights. If you’re struggling with your mental health or need professional guidance, I strongly encourage you to seek support from a qualified therapist or healthcare provider. Please use discretion when exploring any of the topics discussed.

In this episode of The Mindful Startup Podcast, I share a personal reflection on navigating work during tough times. Coming off of an incredibly difficult week, I had to find a way to show up—even when I felt like I couldn’t. I talk about the balance between quality and consistency, how to avoid the all-or-nothing trap, and why low effort is still effort. If you’re struggling with motivation or dealing with emotional weight, this episode is for you. Let’s redefine productivity with kindness, set realistic expectations, and keep moving forward—one small step at a time.

In case you forgot how powerful you are, allow me to remind you.

Feeling like no one supports you? You’re not alone. In this episode of The Mindful Startup Podcast, we dive into the raw truth about success when it feels like the world is against you. You don’t need external validation to make your dreams happen—you need belief in yourself. I’ll share why the opinions of naysayers don’t define your potential, how to be your own biggest supporter, and practical strategies to build self-trust. Plus, I’ll reveal simple mindset shifts (like keeping a What’s Working list) that can boost your confidence and keep you pushing forward—even in the hardest seasons. You’ve got this. I believe in you. Now, it’s time for you to believe in you.

In episode 75 of The Mindful Startup Podcast, we dive into a crucial lesson for entrepreneurs: why keeping your business ideas, future plans, and decision-making processes private is one of the smartest moves you can make. Whether you’re in the early stages of a startup, pivoting to a new venture, or taking on bigger projects, oversharing can hold you back in ways you may not expect. I share five key reasons why discussing your ideas with the wrong people can be harmful—from limiting beliefs and bad advice to envy and loss of credibility. Plus, I reveal how my own openness in business cost me and how I’ve learned to be more selective in who I trust. If you’ve ever regretted sharing too much, this episode is for you. Tune in to learn how to guard your vision, stay confident, and build your business without unnecessary outside noise.

It doesn’t need to be monumental. It doesn’t need to be heroic. It just needs to get done. In this episode of The Mindful Starter Podcast, we’re talking about something we all deal with—overthinking. You don’t need to do something heroic or groundbreaking today. You just need to show up and take one step forward. I’ll share some personal stories about dealing with the fear of messing up, and how perfectionism can totally derail you. Plus, I’ll break down how to stop overthinking, face what’s holding you back, and just get started—even if it’s messy. It doesn’t have to be perfect. It doesn’t have to be a big deal. Just showing up is the key. Let’s do this together.