ZenFounder
Sherry Walling
Permission with Dr. Sherry Walling is a podcast for founders, entrepreneurs, leaders, and creatives who have done the therapy, read the books, and built the thing — and are now ready to stop living by rules they never agreed to. Hosted by clinical psychologist, entrepreneur, speaker and circus artist Dr. Sherry Walling, each episode is a permission slip: to work differently, rest deeply, love fully, change direction, and be more alive than your industry thinks is appropriate. Through honest conversations with founders, thinkers, and doers, Sherry goes where most business podcasts won't — into meaning and burnout, identity, pleasure, embodiment, grief, psychedelics, and the strange emptiness of getting everything you wanted and still feeling like something's missing. For anyone carrying the weight of the thing they built — and the people who love them. New episodes weekly. (Formerly ZenFounder.)
Permission with Dr. Sherry Walling is a podcast for founders, entrepreneurs, leaders, and creatives who have done the therapy, read the books, and built the thing — and are now ready to stop living by rules they never agreed to. Hosted by clinical psychologist, entrepreneur, speaker and circus artist Dr. Sherry Walling, each episode is a permission slip: to work differently, rest deeply, love fully, change direction, and be more alive than your industry thinks is appropriate. Through honest conversations with founders, thinkers, and doers, Sherry goes where most business podcasts won't — into meaning and burnout, identity, pleasure, embodiment, grief, psychedelics, and the strange emptiness of getting everything you wanted and still feeling like something's missing. For anyone carrying the weight of the thing they built — and the people who love them. New episodes weekly. (Formerly ZenFounder.)
Episode 6: Permission to Make Art with Yanik Silver
Epizode
At the top of his career, seven or eight companies in, seven figures, an Aston Martin with “Secret Agent Yanik Silver” stamped on the door sill, Yanik Silver asked his journal a plain question. Am I happy, and would I be happy doing this in ten years? The honest answer was no. Yanik is the founder of Maverick1000, a global collective of entrepreneurs, and the author of Evolved Enterprise and the Cosmic Journal. We get into what came next: selling the Aston Martin (but keeping his ticket to space), driving a beat-up family SUV until he felt real gratitude for it, and sinking four hundred thousand dollars into a new venture before it became anything. The 108 straight days of making art at two in the morning that became a book he never planned to publish. And why, after all of it, he still hesitates to call himself an artist. It’s an episode about the inner voice Yanik calls the cosmic alarm clock, the one you can keep hitting snooze on, and what happens when you finally answer it. Yanik runs Maverick1000 (maverick1000.com) and created the Cosmic Journal (cosmicjournal.com).
A note before you listen: this conversation is about suicide and the loss of a spouse. If you' or someone you know is struggling, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available in the US by call or text at 988. When Kim Witczak's husband died, the official story didn't add up, and she refused to accept it. That refusal turned a grieving thirty-seven-year-old who had never thought her voice mattered into a drug-safety advocate who took on the FDA and helped change the warning label on every antidepressant in the country. Kim is a globally recognized drug-safety advocate, speaker, and former FDA Consumer Representative. Woody died by suicide five weeks into an antidepressant he'd been given for insomnia, a risk that was known and had never been disclosed to him. We get into what it actually takes to fight a system when everyone tells you to sit down, the scripts she had to put down first ("someone competent is in charge," "no one is coming to save me"), "borrowed hope" and how she held onto it in the days she couldn't feel any of her own, and the line she borrowed from Woody that still drives her: "I'd rather try like hell and lose." Sherry, who lost her own brother to suicide, meets her on shared ground. It's an episode about giving yourself permission to fight, for the truth, for your own voice, and for a life worth living after the one you planned falls apart. Kim is on Instagram (@kimwitczak), LinkedIn, and Substack, and her book The Cost of Trust is out later this year.
Derek Coburn thinks we're in a fun recession. His words: 99% of adults aren't having anywhere near the amount of fun they should be. Derek is the founder of Cadre, a community for entrepreneurs, and the author of Networking Is Not Working and Let's Retire Retirement. We get into the research that stopped him cold (the time we spend with friends collapses from about 150 minutes a day as teenagers to almost nothing by our thirties), a term he loves called "collective effervescence" and why he goes to twenty-five concerts a year, how a busy middle-aged adult actually makes new friends when the kids' bus stop is no longer doing it for you, and the money reframe underneath his book: if you're going to work longer than you planned, you can stop over-saving and spend more time and money on the people and the fun that matter now, instead of deferring all of it twenty years. It's an episode about giving yourself permission to have more fun now, not someday. Derek's community is at cadredc.com, and his book Let's Retire Retirement is at derekcoburn.com.
I've been married to Rob Walling for almost 24 years, so I went into this one already knowing the plot. Rob was raised to follow the rules, with a whole career mapped out as an executive at his family's electrical construction company. Then he got into the management training program, realized he was miserable, and walked away with no connections and no plan except that he liked writing code. Rob is the founder of Drip, co-founder of TinySeed, and the host of Startups for the Rest of Us. We get into the years he built on nights and weekends before he'd let himself quit the day job, the tattoo he got of a hand drawing a map, and the arrival fallacy that left him restless three months after getting everything he'd worked for. He makes the case that the buck stops with the founder, which means you're allowed to do far more than you think. Mostly, it's an episode about giving yourself permission to make bold, imperfect decisions and act before you feel ready. Rob writes at robwalling.com and hosts Startups for the Rest of Us.
Jason Cohen has founded two unicorn companies, WP Engine and Smart Bear, and written at asmartbear.com for almost twenty years. His new book, Hidden Multipliers, opens with a founder lying awake at 4 a.m. feeling like a fraud — which tells you it isn't a normal growth-tactics book, and this isn't a normal growth-tactics conversation. We get into why the people who love your work often love it for the things you'd call weaknesses, why Jason would rather have fewer followers who actually care than ten times the audience and a version of himself he'd have to fake, the three-word question he keeps on his daily note to save himself in meetings (does this need to be said, by me, right now), and the night a board member named the real reason he didn't want to step down as CEO: "You want the credit." Underneath all of it: build a company, and a life, in the shape of you. Jason writes at asmartbear.com. His new book, Hidden Multipliers, is at hiddenmultipliers.com. New here? Welcome. And if you've been with me since the ZenFounder days, you're in the right place — the whole back catalog is still here. Follow Permission wherever you listen.
Mia Sundstrom is a CEO who swims in the middle of the workday, on purpose, and can tell you exactly why she gets that hour back. She runs the National Institute for Play, she's a lifelong gymnast, and she's on a mission to reach ten million people with play by 2030.We get into play as both a state (the thing you're doing) and a trait (the way you show up), the neuroscience that play lives in the oldest part of the brain and is something we're born knowing how to do, and the six play styles (I took the quiz and came out mover and explorer.) We talk about why play is productive, from the $10 trillion cost of disengagement to the fact that nobody's best idea has ever arrived while staring at a monitor, and how to tell real play from the scrolling that only looks like it. Mia's grandfather, the psychiatrist Stuart Brown, built this field after noticing that people who commit serious violence tend to be starved of play, and she carries that work forward. It's an episode about giving yourself permission to play, and the science that says you'll get the time back. Take the Play Styles assessment and discover your unique play spark (https://playstyles.nifplay.org/). Stay up to date with the latest play science information by subscribing to their Substack @NIFPlay. And check The Live Playfully Journal: 90-days of reflection and practice to a more playful, joyful you.
After more than a decade and a few hundred episodes, ZenFounder is becoming Permission. I'm Dr. Sherry Walling — clinical psychologist, and the voice you've been listening to all along — and this is the next chapter of the show we've built together. Somewhere along the way, most of us started waiting for permission: to rest, to change our minds, to want a different life than the one we built. Permission is a podcast for people who've done the hard thing — built the company, hit the number, raised the kids — and found themselves wondering what it was all for. Each week I sit down with founders, entrepreneurs, scientists, artists, and creatives, and we go where most business shows won't. Some weeks it's permission to admit you got everything you wanted and you're still not happy. Some weeks it's permission to be led by pleasure instead of productivity, or to stop earning your worth and simply have it. And every single episode ends the same way — with a permission slip: one thing you didn't know you were allowed to do. If you've been here since the ZenFounder days: thank you. You've sat with me through hundreds of conversations, and I don't take that for granted. This is the version of the show I've been growing toward for years, and I think it's about to get really good. I can't wait for you to hear it. If you're new: welcome. This is a good place to land.
In this intimate conversation, Dr. Sherry Walling explores our relationship with fear and why it is not something to override or dismiss. Drawing from both psychology and her experience as a circus aerialist, Dr. Sherry explains how fear functions as a warning system in the body signaling potential danger, asking us to slow down, and inviting attention. Rather than treating fear as a weakness or obstacle, this conversation reframes fear as information, a signal worth listening to. This episode is an invitation to develop a more mature relationship with fear, one that allows it to inform decisions, clarify priorities, and protect what matters most, without letting it run the show. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why fear is often misunderstood as weakness instead of wisdom The difference between listening to fear and letting fear run the show Why emotional fears (shame, failure, rejection) deserve attention, not avoidance The role of fear in helping us prioritise what truly matters #ZenFounderPodcast #DrSherryWalling #FearAsInformation #NervousSystemWisdom #EntrepreneurMentalHealth #EmbodiedLeadership #Presence
Entrepreneurs are great at leading teams, making decisions, and optimizing time. But what happens when those same skills show up at home—and start to hurt your closest relationships? In this episode, Dr. Walling shares the 4 entrepreneurial mindsets that often cause trouble at home—and what you can do differently. Self-importance around time – why treating family moments as “below you” creates distance. Productivity over presence – how chasing efficiency can crowd out play. Reviewing family members like employees – why constant appraisal kills safety and connection. Expecting instant implementation – what happens when you “CEO” at home. And last, the best lessons you can actually learn from family life — lessons that will make you a stronger, more human leader.
Entrepreneurs are keen to push themselves to grow and become the best version of themselves. As early adopters, they’re often open to immersive experiences that accelerate their personal and professional development. But when it comes to non-ordinary state experiences like psychedelics, deep retreats, even personal breakthroughs, too many skip the most essential part: integration. In this episode, Dr. Sherry Walling breaks down exactly what it means to integrate a transformative experience into your daily life. Whether you're navigating a psychedelic journey or simply returning from an immersive retreat, this conversation offers practical tips for slowing down, listening in, and making your growth real. You'll learn: How to decipher the kinds of “messages” you receive during a journey How to build a 4-month plan around new values, habits, or intentions Why busyness is the enemy of growth—and how to build in space for listening Subscribe to Sherry’s newsletter: tinyurl.com/ZenFounder
Is Entrepreneurship a Creative Act? In this episode, Dr. Sherry Walling shares what producing a full-scale circus show taught her about the creative process of entrepreneurship. From the vulnerability of putting your work in public to the emotional risk of innovation, Sherry explores how the mindset of an artist can unlock better products, deeper audience connection, and long-term fulfillment as a founder. #Entrepreneurship #CreativeLeadership #MentalHealth #Startups #Founders #Vulnerability #CreatorEconomy
Did you know that 27% of Americans are actively estranged from at least one family member? In a world where ideological division is high and screens are the most consistent recipient of our attention, our families are quietly fracturing. In this special episode, clinical psychologist Dr. Sherry Walling reflects on the beautiful, painful, complicated terrain of family life. Inside this episode: – Why family can be our deepest source of pain—and our greatest opportunity for healing – The psychological dynamics of individuation, estrangement, and reconciliation – A radical practice for staying close: becoming a neutral observer Whether you're in the thick of parenting, navigating loss, or redefining what family means to you, this episode is an invitation to reflect, feel, and begin again. Learn more about the Familia circus show: https://www.touchingtwoworlds.com/familia Read the book: https://www.touchingtwoworlds.com/free-chapters Get support o...
Do you ever ask yourself what you really want? Not what’s profitable. Not what’s a good business decision. Not what’s righteous, or best for your team. Just… what you want. In this episode, clinical psychologist Dr. Sherry Walling invites you into a deeply personal—and radically freeing—conversation about desire. As a founder or leader, you’ve been trained to prioritize discipline, service, and strategy. But too often, that comes at the cost of your own longing. Inside this episode: Why desire isn’t hedonism—it’s data A framework for “desiring well” The reason most humans fear giving in to desire Want deeper support in your founder journey?
Ever find yourself saying things you regret in the heat of the moment? Or spiraling after a client complaint, a bad email, or your kid melting down in public? In this episode, clinical psychologist Dr. Sherry Walling breaks down how high performers lose control of big emotions—and how to get it back. Inside this episode: – What’s actually happening in your body when you get triggered – How to catch your reaction early—before your nervous system hijacks your behavior – Simple ways to calm your body fast (breathwork, water, scent, music) – What past experiences may be quietly running the show when you feel attacked or out of control Whether you’re a founder, a parent, or both—this is the toolkit for staying regulated when life gets hard.
Do you ever feel like you’re at war with yourself? One part of you wants to hustle, scale, dominate the market. Another part wants to sell the business, move to the woods, and sleep 10 hours a night. And then there’s the voice panicking about churn, cash flow, and that very unhappy customer email you can’t stop thinking about. You're not broken. You're not alone. You're just... human. In this episode, clinical psychologist Dr. Sherry Walling introduces a powerful framework you probably haven’t tried: Internal Family Systems (IFS). This psychological model helps founders better understand their competing inner voices—and make smarter, more aligned decisions. Inside this episode: – Why some parts of you want to grow your business—and others want to burn it all down – The real reason ignoring your “inner child” can lead to burnout – How to recognize fear-based decision-making before it wrecks your strategy – A practical exercise to map your Internal Founder System #FounderLife #...
Entrepreneurship is lonely—but it doesn’t have to be. In this video, Dr. Sherry Walling dives into one of the most overlooked challenges in the entrepreneurial journey: finding your people. Starting, growing, and even exiting a business can be incredibly isolating. That loneliness can quietly erode both your mental health and your ability to lead. In this episode, you'll learn: The difference between networking and true friendship Why proximity, attention, and shared play are essential to adult friendships How relationships are foundational to both mental health and business success Whether you’re craving deeper connections, wondering why your friendships feel thin, or simply looking to feel less alone in your work—this one’s for you. Learn more about Sherry’s upcoming Touching Two Worlds: Familia circus show—an original performance about the power of relationships: www.touchingtwoworlds.com/upcoming-shows
Is Traditional Therapy Failing Entrepreneurs? Therapy is an invaluable tool—but is it always the best fit for high performers, founders, and creatives? In this episode, Dr. Sherry Walling shares her honest critique of traditional psychotherapy, highlighting five key concerns: The Pathology Trap – Why therapy often focuses on diagnosing problems instead of amplifying strengths. It Takes Too Long – Why conventional therapy can be slow-moving and how alternative approaches, like psychedelics, may be more effective for rapid breakthroughs. Hyper-Focus on Hurt – How therapy can make people more sensitive to pain without equipping them to move forward. The Risk of Self-Absorption – When therapy over-validates personal experiences without placing them in a larger context of relationships and responsibilities.
Entrepreneurs thrive on independence, resilience, and figuring things out on their own. But when it comes to launching a book, a product, or a business—going solo can actually hold you back. Asking for help isn’t a weakness—it’s a growth strategy. In this episode, Dr. Sherry Walling breaks down why founders struggle to ask for help, how to do it effectively, and why the success of your work depends on it.
You’ve built something incredible. But when it’s time to sell, are you unknowingly making your exit harder than it needs to be? Most founders focus on the financial side of an exit—negotiating terms, securing the best deal, maximizing their payout. But what about the psychological side? If you’re not prepared, selling your business can feel like losing a piece of yourself—leading to bad deals, self-sabotage, and regret. In this episode, Dr. Sherry Walling, clinical psychologist and entrepreneur, breaks down seven factor that shape how you feel about an exit, including some common self-sabotage situations and how to avoid them. You’ll learn: The identity trap: why over-identifying with your business makes letting go so painful The hidden rebel: how your own psychology could push you to blow up a good deal Why money mindset matters—and how it shapes your exit experience
Dr. Sherry Walling has spent years balancing life as a psychologist, entrepreneur, and parent. She’s married to a tech founder, has been immersed in the startup world for decades, and has raised two kids who’ve never known a traditional 9-to-5 household. In this episode, she shares what she’s learned about raising resilient, adaptable kids in an entrepreneurial home—the good, the hard, and the unexpected. She talks about: How kids absorb resilience by watching their parents handle risk and uncertainty Why getting kids involved in the business builds confidence and independence The role of financial literacy in raising self-reliant kids How to instill a growth mindset that helps them tackle challenges head-on Growing up in an entrepreneurial household can be a gift—not something kids have to navigate. When done well, it helps them think creatively, solve problems, and develop confidence in themselves. Watch now to hear her insights, stories, and practical tips for raising kids in an entrepreneurial world. And don’t forget to subscribe for more conversations on business, mental health, and family life!
In this episode, Dr. Sherry Walling dives into how physically demanding hobbies can revolutionize the way you approach your business and life. Whether it’s aerial arts, rock climbing, kite surfing, or long-distance running, these activities offer more than just physical benefits—they reshape your mindset. Here’s what you’ll learn: How embodied learning fosters better intuitive decision-making. Why rapid feedback cycles in hobbies teach resilience and adaptability. How to use physical challenges to master stress regulation. From building confidence to navigating setbacks, physically demanding hobbies can profoundly influence your entrepreneurial journey, giving you tools to stay sharp, resilient, and energized. Looking to add some physical play to your life? Join us on May 23rd and 24th, 2025, for the Touching Two Worlds Circus Show—an awe-inspiring performance you won't forget. And don’t miss the Circus Day Adventure on May 25th! Experience the thrill of flying trapeze, acrobatics, and even circus horse riding. Learn more and sign up at touchingtwoworlds.com
Are you stuck in the gap between where you are and where you want to be? You sense the next chapter of your life, business, or relationships calling to you—but the path forward feels unclear. Fear of disruption, lack of mastery, and the weight of commitments often hold us back from stepping into our fullest selves. In this episode, Dr. Sherry Walling shares how to navigate the space between where you are and where you want to be. She challenges you to move past fear and embrace a life of bold, embodied aliveness. Learn how fear keeps us small—and what you can do about it. Discover why the "perfect time" for change doesn’t exist—and how strategy and courage can bridge the gap. Find out how to balance soul-level growth while honoring your commitments. This episode is a must-watch if you're ready to stop holding back and step fully into who you’re meant to be. Listen now and learn how to bridge the possibility gap. The Poem read by Dr. Walling is "...
Do you ever feel like your work is pulling you away from your family? For entrepreneurs and high performers, busy seasons are inevitable—whether you’re scaling a business, traveling for work, or navigating a major life transition. But maintaining deep, meaningful connections with your family doesn’t have to fall by the wayside. In this episode, I share insights into: The power of micro-moments How shared rituals and hobbies can create lasting memories Strategies for involving your family in your entrepreneurial vision—and why it matters. Practical tools like shared calendars and outsourcing to make room for quality time. Learn how to stay present and intentional with the people who matter most, even in the busiest of seasons. If you’ve ever felt the tension between your personal and professional lives, this episode will inspire you to build a bridge between them. #EntrepreneurLife #FamilyFirst #WorkLifeBalance #ParentingTips #Entrepreneurship #MindfulLiving
What does it mean to be "selfish"? For many, the word carries a negative connotation—one of neglecting others for personal gain. But what if being "selfish" was seen as a necessary part of self-care, self-development, and living a deeply fulfilling life? In this episode, Dr. Sherry Walling, clinical psychologist and mental health advocate for entrepreneurs and high performers, explores the complex relationship we have with selfishness. She dives into: How self-care, boundaries, and joy can fuel meaningful service to others. The sacred responsibility we all have to craft and care for our “selves.” Why prioritizing your own needs doesn’t diminish others—it creates abundance. Learn why self-care is not just a personal luxury but a foundational act of love for those around you. If you’re ready to rethink what it means to be “selfish” and craft a life of intentionality and joy, this episode is for you. Explore More: Subscribe to Dr. Sherry’s newsletter at zenfounder.com
Are Psychedelics Right for You? 5 Questions to Ask Before You Begin Psychedelics hold incredible potential for healing, growth, and creativity—but they aren’t for everyone. In this episode, Dr. Sherry Walling, clinical psychologist and expert on the mental well-being of entrepreneurs and high performers, unpacks the nuanced considerations you need to make before diving into psychedelic-supported therapy. You’ll learn: How to evaluate if you’re ready for the changes psychedelics can bring The importance of intention—whether you’re healing trauma or doing a creative exploration Why personal responsibility is crucial when stepping off traditional medical paths Medical and psychological factors to assess How to choose a safe and qualified guide for your journey Psychedelics are powerful tools that demand careful thought and preparation. This episode offers a balanced perspective on how to approach them with respect, safety, and clarity. Ready to deepen your connection to yourself and the world around you? Contact Dr. Sherry at ZenFounder.com/contact.
Is a Mental Health Day Worth It? Absolutely. Here’s Why. Taking a mental health day might seem like a luxury your team can’t afford—especially for small businesses or startups—but the truth is, the benefits far outweigh the costs. In this episode, Dr. Sherry Walling explores how intentional mental health days can prevent burnout, build resilience, and foster a stronger, more cohesive team. You'll learn: Five scenarios where mental health days make the biggest impact Budget-friendly ways to design meaningful mental health days How to recognize when your team needs a break and what to do about it Investing in mental well-being isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s essential for the long-term health of your team—and, by extension, your business. Ready to lead with intention? Connect with Dr. Sherry at ZenFounder.com/contact. #mentalhealth #entrepreneurs #leadership #burnout #teamwork #smallbusiness #mindset
Feeling lonely at the top? Being a high performer, your awesomeness could be isolating you. In this episode, Dr. Sherry Walling discusses the unique loneliness that comes with success and how to find your tribe. You'll learn: How to find your tribe (even if it's uncomfortable) How to overcome the fear of being "too much" Three strategies to create a safe space for your awesomeness to flourish Dr. Sherry Walling is on a mission to help you stop playing small and embrace your awesomeness! Want to connect? Reach out at zenfounder.com/contact Leave a comment below! What are your biggest struggles with feeling lonely at the top? #entrepreneur #loneliness #success #motivation #mindset #community
Does the constant hustle make you struggle to stay present in your daily life? In this episode, Dr. Sherry Walling dives deep into the concept of consciousness, exploring its many layers, and explaining how practices like mindfulness, meditation, and even psychedelic medicine can help you become more aware and present. Episode highlights: Learn how expanding your consciousness can improve your decision-making and creativity. Explore the connection between consciousness and emotional well-being. Practical tips on how to start practicing presence and mindfulness. Whether you aim to sharpen your intuition for better daily decision-making or seek to elevate your capacity for joy, this episode offers valuable insights to support you on this journey. #Consciousness #Mindfulness #Entrepreneurship
Step into the world of the circus with Dr. Sherry Walling as she explores how this vibrant community offers a sanctuary where quirks and eccentricities are not just accepted, but celebrated. In this episode, Dr. Walling, an amateur circus artist, delves into the transformative impact of embracing our unique traits and shares how the circus provides a powerful metaphor for life, especially for those who feel like they don't quite fit into traditional molds (hello, entrepreneurs!) If you are near Minneapolis on May 4th, join Dr. Walling in a collective healing experience, where we celebrate all that makes us different! Tickets for the May 4th show at the Luminary Arts Center are available now. Don't miss out! Book your tickets: www.touchingtwoworlds.com/integration
As entrepreneurs, we are constantly pushing the limits of what we can do in a day, but what happens when we don’t know how to truly rest and restore? In this video, Dr. Sherry Walling dives deep into the importance of rest in the cycle of high performance, revealing why it is integral to sustaining long-term productivity and avoiding the pitfalls of burnout. What you'll learn: Misconceptions about rest (and why scrolling on your phone doesn't count.) The psychological and physical benefits of disconnecting, embracing nature, and nurturing your sensory experiences. Overlooked strategies that high performers use to recharge, reset, and integrate restorative rest into your busy life. No more excuses, entrepreneurs. You can't afford not to rest. Turn off your phone, step away from the screen, and embrace truly restorative practices that will help you thrive in business and life.
Is your mental health treatment compromising your sexual well-being? Discover the nuanced impacts of SSRIs on your sex life and why psilocybin can be a groundbreaking ally in battling depression without diminishing your capacity for joy and pleasure. In this video, we explore: The challenge of depression and anxiety on sexual intimacy. The often overlooked side effects of SSRIs on sexual desire and pleasure. Insights from recent research on psilocybin vs. SSRIs and their effects on sexual experience, and how psilocybin-assisted psychotherapy could revolutionize the sex life of those struggling with depression. For more detailed information and insights, check out the research article: https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-023-49817-4 Let's connect! If you're navigating these challenges and looking for personalized support, reach out at zenfounder.com/contact. We specialize in helping high-.performers thrive in both business and personal life.
In this episode, Dr. Walling explores the fine line between being an emotionally intelligent leader and falling into the trap of people-pleasing. If you are an entrepreneur who is pouring your heart, soul, and intellect into your work, recognizing the signs of people-pleasing and taking steps to maintain your inner compass is vital. So, where do we draw the line between being a considerate leader and compromising our well-being for others' approval? Listen to the episode to discover 5 key signs that you are a people-pleasing leader and how that affects your company's future. Are you feeling lost in the hustle, unsure of who you are in the middle of the demands of leadership? As one of the world's only clinical psychologists focused on the mental health of entrepreneurs, Dr. Sherry Walling blends elite research training, extensive psychotherapy experience, and firsthand entrepreneurial insight to support you. Connect with us at zenfounder.com/contact for personalized support.
Are you and your partner finding yourselves stuck in the same cycle of conflicts and misunderstandings, no matter how hard you try to break free? In today's video, Dr. Walling delves into the transformative potential of psychedelic-assisted therapy for couples, especially those in the entrepreneurial space who may find their relationships challenged by the unique pressures of their lifestyle. She explores how substances like MDMA can offer a profound opportunity for couples to reconnect, communicate more effectively, and heal longstanding issues by fostering an environment of empathy, trust, and understanding. Throughout this video, we'll discuss: The science behind MDMA-assisted psychotherapy and how it can lower defenses, allowing for deeper emotional connections. Benefits for couples, including those with a history of conflict or those simply seeking to deepen their bond. The importance of professional guidance in navigating this therapeutic journey. The current legal landscape and research status of MDMA-assisted psychotherapy in the US At ZenFounder, we understand the complexities of balancing a relationship with entrepreneurial demands. If you're looking to explore new avenues to enhance your relationship, reach out to ZenFounder for a consultation. Let's work together to bring touch, love, and deeper connection back into your life
Do you often find yourself caught in the relentless cycle of overthinking, where anxiety and repetitive thoughts leave you feeling like a hamster on a wheel? In this episode, Dr. Sherry Walling explores how to transform your thought process from overthinking to deep thinking: a productive, inspired state of mind that moves ideas forward with momentum. Putting your thought process into action and actively engaging your mind in problem-solving is a powerful asset. Whether you're crafting your next big business move or navigating personal challenges, the strategies shared in this episode will teach you how to use your intellectual power effectively. At ZenFounder, we specialize in guiding individuals out of the spiral of overthinking and into a state of flow—essential for a thriving business and a fulfilling life. Contact us and take the first step toward a more impactful and purpose-driven life.
Have you ever considered how the simple act of touch can transform your mental health? Touch, an often ignored aspect of human functioning, is crucial for development, emotional regulation, and immune function. In this episode, Dr. Walling discusses the barriers to incorporating more touch into our lives and explores why entrepreneurs often struggle with isolation and difficulty asking for and accepting touch. Learn how to create opportunities for touch, and understand why it should be an essential part of your mental health regimen. If you or someone you know is finding it difficult to integrate touch into their relationships, Brooke Bergman Parr, ZenFounder’s relationship expert, is here to help. She specializes in helping entrepreneur couples enhance intimacy and connection. Reach out for a consultation with Brooke and bring touch back into your life.
As entrepreneurs, although we understand that a fulfilling life goes beyond work and productivity, we often struggle to make time for play. However, did you know that engaging in hobbies that energize you, rather than consume your time, can actually boost your peak performance? In this insightful episode, Dr. Walling presents powerful arguments for why play should be an essential, non-negotiable part of your life. Key Highlights: Learn how engaging in hobbies can be a vital tool for regulating your nervous system, ensuring a balanced state of homeostasis essential for optimal functioning. Understand the impact of neurological diversification through play on preventing burnout and fostering a resilient, adaptable brain. Embrace the significance of hobbies in shaping your identity beyond work and productivity. Gain insights into how hobbies, especially those involving movement, can enrich your life, boost your creativity, and enhance your overall well-being. Ready to see play in practice? Curious about trying out a hobby that's anything but ordinary? Join Dr. Walling for the 'Touching Two Worlds: Integration' Circus Show + Trapeze Experience in Minneapolis on May 4th. The “Skydancer’s Package” offers you the chance to actively participate in a trapeze class and rediscover the joy of play.
Do you feel caught in the cycle of overworking? Are you constantly pushing the limits of your mind and body to get things done? In this video, Dr. Sherry Walling unpacks the complex psychology of overworking, a common challenge in the entrepreneurial world. Drawing from her professional insights and personal experiences, Dr. Walling helps you identify the signs, understand the drivers, and rethink the common narratives around overworking. Episode Highlights: -Do you end your days feeling as if you've climbed Mount Everest? Dr. Walling explores what emotional exhaustion means and why it's a red flag. -Morning Energy Alert: Understanding your morning mood can be a key indicator of overworking. -Are you driven by a need to prove your worth, or perhaps a fear of scarcity? Explore 4 common psychological drivers behind the urge to overwork. If you feel it's time to explore a more balanced approach to work and life, contact us at zenfounder.com/contact. We’d love to be of help in your journey. If you find this episode insightful, consider subscribing to Dr. Walling's newsletter for more content on entrepreneurship, mental health, and sustainable success: zenfounder.com/#newsletter.
Join Dr. Sherry Walling in this compelling episode as she explores the often-missed connection between nurturing a romantic relationship and achieving business success. Drawing from her extensive experience as a clinical psychologist and insights from her own marriage to an entrepreneur, Dr. Walling offers a unique perspective on the challenges and strategies for keeping love alive in the demanding world of business. In this episode, you will learn: What happens in the brain of an entrepreneur when they think of their business. How to avoid letting your business become a 'third wheel' in your romantic bond. How practicing focused attention can save your connection with your partner. The impact of mutual hobbies on enhancing your relationship. This episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs and their partners, providing essential guidance for thriving in both love and business. Tune in to transform the way you perceive and manage your most valuable partnership!
In this insightful episode, Dr. Sherry Walling dives into a vital yet often overlooked aspect of leadership: the power of forgiveness. This discussion challenges the traditional perception of forgiveness being a weakness but as a key to resilience, effective leadership, and personal growth. Episode highlights: Learn why forgiving someone is distinct from re-entering a relationship with them. Discover how forgiveness is primarily an internal journey, focusing on self-healing rather than external reconciliation. Uncover the importance of forgiving oneself as a step towards overall healing and better decision-making in business and life. Are you navigating life feeling like there are emotional landmines buried within you, ready to be triggered at any moment? If unresolved forgiveness issues are keeping you in a state of constant vigilance, draining your energy and preventing you from being fully present and authentic in your life and work, it's time to seek change. Don't let the burdens of the past hold you back any longer. Reach out to us at zenfounder.com/contact and embark on a journey to reclaim your clarity, energy, and purpose.
Did you know that entrepreneurs typically operate in a constant high-arousal state, because of the pressure of their role? In this insightful episode, Dr. Sherry Walling unveils effective strategies for entrepreneurs and high performers to manage anxiety. She draws from her experience with veterans and high-stress professionals to offer the 'Three B's' approach: Breath, Body, and Brain. Discover how our body and brain can misinterpret danger, leading to heightened anxiety states even in the absence of real threats, and how simple techniques like deep breathing and progressive muscle relaxation can activate the vagus nerve, a key player in calming the body's fight or flight response.
How often do you find the voice in your head is your toughest critic? And can you turn it into your biggest cheerleader? In this video, Dr. Sherry Walling delves into a familiar struggle for many entrepreneurs: the harsh inner voice that often holds us back more than it pushes us forward. What we're exploring: How our past, particularly our upbringing and parental influences, shape our internal dialogue. The nature of self-criticism versus self-coaching and their impact on your personal and professional life. Practical insights on transforming that critical inner voice into a constructive, supportive coach. If you're ready to shift your inner narrative from critical to empowering, this episode is for you!
In this episode, Dr. Sherry Walling delves into the fascinating world of Sigmund Freud's psychological theories and their unexpected relevance for today's entrepreneurs. Discover how his groundbreaking contributions to understanding early childhood, internal conflict, and the unconscious mind continue to resonate in modern psychology and significantly influence our success in business and in life. Explore how Freud's theories can be adapted and applied in today's entrepreneurial landscape to promote success, self-awareness, and mental well-being. #FreudianTheory #EntrepreneurMindset #BusinessPsychology #LeadershipDevelopment Stay ahead in your mental health journey with Dr. Sherry Walling’s ZenFounder newsletter. Tailored for high performers, you’ll receive exclusive insights on mental wellness, bonus content from her books, and early access to upcoming events and workshops. Subscribe now!
Did you know your mental health and how you navigate your personal journey have immense implications for the collective well-being? In this episode, Dr. Sherry Walling explores the sense of heaviness that many of us are experiencing, not just in our personal lives but in our communities and across the globe, to question the traditional view of mental health as an individual metric, instead considering its collective impact. Discover how individual actions contribute to alleviating global suffering and enhancing collective well-being. Gain insights on self-talk, self-care, and political activism to improve both personal and societal mental health, starting with you to uplift the collective. #MentalHealthAwareness #PersonalIsPolitical
Ever wondered why sometimes, as a fully grown adult, you suddenly feel like a seven-year-old again, especially in high-stress situations like a board meeting or while making an important decision? In this episode, Sherry explores the fascinating world of Internal Family Systems (IFS), a model that reveals how different parts of our past experiences and emotions continue to live within us and influence our present actions. Join her as she delves into the groundbreaking work of Dr. Richard Schwartz, the creator of the IFS model, to discuss how 'Exiles', 'Firefighters', and 'Managers' within us play a significant role in our daily lives. Key Highlights: Understand how childhood experiences can resurface in adulthood, influencing our reactions and decisions in surprising ways. Get a grasp on the concept of 'Exiles', 'Firefighters', and 'Managers' – parts of our psyche that interact in complex ways, shaping our behavior and emotional responses. Plus a real-life story of an entrepreneur whose business challenges during COVID-19 revealed deeper, underlying childhood fears and motivations. Whether you're an entrepreneur facing business challenges, a professional navigating career change, or simply curious about personal growth, this discussion will shed light on how childhood experiences can affect your emotional response today.
In her latest episode, Dr. Sherry Walling delves into the emotional blend of joy and grief that the holidays often bring. She discusses the varying experiences of grief from year to year and the importance of recognizing that there is no universal way to handle it. Dr. Walling also explores the idea of 'aliveness' within grief - the pursuit of joy, laughter, and connection amidst sorrow. This episode is a profound conversation about embracing the complexities of our emotions during this season. If you or someone you know is facing grief this holiday season, Dr. Walling invites you to join this intimate discussion. She also encourages you to explore her book, 'Touching Two Worlds,' for deeper insights into her personal journey with grief and loss. A resource she hopes will bring comfort and understanding to your own path. Available now: https://a.co/d/8iRP1Up #TouchingTwoWorlds #HolidayGrief
In this insightful episode, Sherry delves into the profound lesson of how your focus determines your future, especially in the challenging world of entrepreneurship. Drawing from unique experiences in circus arts, she explores the critical role of where you set your gaze and how it can shape the trajectory of your personal and professional life. Highlights: Learn how directing your gaze impacts your business and life goals. Explore why not defining your focus can be more daunting than facing potential failure. Tips on how to envision and articulate your life goals for long-term fulfillment. Remember, your momentum goes where your gaze goes. So, where are you looking? Are you focused on what truly matters to you?
Sherry discusses the impact of neurodivergence on the entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing that these distinctive traits can serve as both assets and obstacles in our business endeavors. While neurodivergence can be considered a superpower, harnessing its benefits necessitates additional effort, deliberate attention, assistance, and training to mitigate potential challenges it may pose to the life of a company.
In a world seemingly inundated with the shadows of depression, worry, and loneliness, it's easy to feel like we're caught in a whirlwind of chaos. Sherry with her naturally optimistic outlook, gives some actionable antidotes to this chaos you can apply for yourself and those around you.
Sherry explores the reasons why one might hesitate to embrace therapy. Many individuals harbor reservations or anxieties about delving into substantial personal development efforts. This reluctance may stem from the realization that as we evolve, our entire world undergoes transformation, necessitating a readiness for change. Therapy, albeit beneficial, can evoke trepidation. Opening up and revealing the most intimate aspects of one's thoughts and life can be daunting. Yet, there's an additional, somewhat humorous, reason to be wary of therapy—what if it actually works? Sherry sheds light on the potential upheaval and disruptions that can accompany successful therapy and change, providing insights into various possibilities and outcomes for listeners to consider.
Discover the nuances of subtle sexism prevalent in various business settings like events, conferences, and dinners, often unintentional yet impactful. Gain awareness of these occurrences to ensure you're not inadvertently contributing to such behavior.
