Radical ownership isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the foundation that separates authentic leaders from accidental ones. On this inspiring episode of the Learn-It-All™ podcast, Damon sits down with Matt Drinkhahn—entrepreneur, bestselling author, business coach, and host of the Eternal Optimist podcast—to explore the power of radical ownership and resilience. Drawing from his life-altering accident and career in coaching high performers, Matt Drinkhahn unpacks the mindset shifts it takes to turn adversity into opportunity. From recovering after an identity-shattering injury to navigating layoffs and rebuilding careers, this episode is a masterclass in grit, gratitude, and leadership by example.
Packed with raw stories, actionable tools, and hard-earned wisdom, you’ll find out why slowing down, letting go, and practicing everyday gratitude might be every leader’s ultimate advantage. If you’re ready to reframe your setbacks and become a learn-it-all, this one’s for you!
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- How Matt Drinkhahn’s zipline accident transformed his identity and approach to leadership
- Why radical ownership is the cornerstone of sustainable success—and how you can apply it to any setback
- The mindset, habits, and rituals that kept Matt Drinkhahn moving forward after devastating loss (from daily gratitude to finding magic in the mundane)
- Practical steps for navigating identity loss and layoff—including how to create a comeback story and leverage your hidden skills
- How high performers and business owners can avoid the trap of control, ego, and burnout
- Why investing in your development (through coaching, learning, and reflection) is the best ROI—plus, how to turn feedback into growth
Timestamps:
00:00 – Matt Drinkhahn on owning your journey and coaching leaders
01:19 – Surviving a life-changing accident: gratitude, resilience, and comeback
02:17 – Zipline fall, injury, and the physical/mental toll
06:08 – The first thought after disaster: radical ownership
08:30 – Rebuilding after loss, pain, and identity crisis
11:38 – Navigating layoffs, shame, and starting over
14:27 – Why leaders get stuck and how to reset
17:52 – Success journals, transferable skills, and network tips
20:21 – How to pitch your value after setbacks
22:25 – The power of outreach and reframing fear
25:00 – Why nobody is thinking about you (and why that frees you to lead boldly)
27:54 – Empowering leaders: from control to coaching and empowerment
34:16 – Breaking down ego in family businesses
41:46 – How to design development plans that actually work
45:31 – Life lessons in practice: Miracle Morning, skill-sharpening, and daily habits
47:16 – The story of Matt Drinkhahn’s dad, resilience, and winning each day
About Matt Drinkhahn:
Matt Drinkhahn is an author, entrepreneur, business coach, and host of the Eternal Optimist podcast. With over $130 million in career sales and two decades helping high performers transform ambition into lasting leadership, he’s known for his radical approach to ownership, resilience, and gratitude. His personal journey—from shattering his back in a zipline accident to running marathons and coaching top executives—now fuels his mission to help others unlock their own comebacks and lead with authenticity.
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