Elliot Johnson on Gratitude, Grit, and Earning the Right to Win

On this episode of The One Big Thing Podcast, I sit down with Elliot Johnson—former Major League Baseball player, father, and leader—to talk about what it really means to live with gratitude and earn the life you want.

Elliot shares powerful stories from growing up in a family of six siblings where competition was the norm, his journey to the big leagues, and the lessons he now passes on to his kids and the next generation. We dive deep into the mindset of radical accountability, the importance of letting your children struggle well, and why choosing gratitude—even when life is tough—can change everything.

If you’ve ever wondered how to balance faith, family, and the drive to win, or how to encourage your kids without forcing your own dreams on them, this conversation will challenge and inspire you.

This is a raw, honest, and practical talk about what it looks like to show up in your life, earn it, and stay grateful through it all.

✨ Episode Highlights

• Elliot’s upbringing in a small Arizona town with five siblings and a family culture of competition.
• Lessons from his father, a die-hard Cubs fan, and how those values shaped Elliot’s career.
• Why gratitude is a choice—and how it’s shaped Elliot’s worldview.
• The mindset of “radical accountability” and learning to embrace failure.
• Parenting lessons: letting kids “struggle well,” pursuing their own passions, and encouraging effort over outcomes.
• How lessons from baseball apply to life, marriage, and fatherhood.
• The power of surrounding yourself with winners and people who hold you to higher standards.

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About Elliot

Elliot is a current husband to Nicole and father of three to Blake, Hazel and Skylar. Currently a Global Sports and Entertainment Director with Morgan Stanley specializing in helping former, current and aspiring MLB players. Elliot played 14 seasons professionally including parts of 5 in Major League Baseball with the Rays, Royals, Braves and Indians organizations.

Elliot is passionate about helping those who desire optimizing their unique God-given gifts in life.

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