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May 4, 2025 β€’ 34 mins
πŸ”₯ Ready to Get Mentally Tough?

What does it really take to perform under pressure, lead with heart, and stay grounded when everything around you is out of your control?

In this episode, host John Merkus sits down with Australian Survivor contestant, elite football coach, and everyday legend Paul Dee.

Paul shares the mindset he used to survive the island, thrive through adversity, and inspire those around him in the wild and in real life.

This conversation will fire you up to face your own challenges with clarity, purpose, and unshakable resilience.

🎯 Episode Highlights

🎯 How to mentally prepare for discomfort and train your brain for grit 🎯 The nightly reset ritual that kept Paul focused while cold, hungry, and exposed 🎯 What Survivor really teaches about leadership, presence, and purpose 🎯 The surprising motivation behind his application to the show 🎯 Why pushing through the β€œI don’t feel like it” moments creates greatness 🎯 The role of family, discipline, and perspective when pressure hits

πŸ™‹ Who Is Paul Dee?

⚽ High-performance football coach 🏒 Corporate professional with a passion for mindset and sport πŸ”₯ Australian Survivor Season 6 castaway: Brains vs Brawn πŸ‘¨β€πŸ‘§β€πŸ‘¦ Devoted dad of two πŸ’ͺ An unshakable force who leads from the heart and never stops growing

🧠 Mic Drop Moments

β€œYou need to enjoy the really tough moment, because that’s what separates you from the rest.” β€œThe only excuse is your own motivation. Once the alarm clock goes off, you decide who you want to be.”

🎧 Tune In Now to Be Inspired

Whether you're on a walk, driving, or just needing a boost, this conversation is for you. Hit play and rise into your greatness today.

πŸ’¬ Loved it? Here's What You Can Do Next:

βœ… Share this episode with a friend who’s ready to rise ⭐ Leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify πŸ“² Follow John Merkus for more uplifting content πŸ’Œ Join the mailing list to get exclusive inspiration and free resources

πŸ™ About Your Host: John Merkus

John is a passionate speaker, transformation coach, and host of Rise and Thrive. He is committed to helping you become your best self. His conversations are thoughtful, energising, and always filled with golden nuggets of wisdom. He brings out the best in every guest and this episode is no exception.

🎧 Press play, get inspired, and keep thriving. Greatness is one action away. πŸ’¬ Join the Conversation

What’s one insight from this episode that resonated with you? Drop a comment or share your thoughts on social media using: #RiseAndThrive #GreatnessUnlocked #LeadWithHeart

πŸ“² Stay Inspired and Keep Thriving

Explore the Fluid Reality Mindset App: 🌐 www.johnmerkus.com

πŸ“Œ Follow and share your favourite moments: ▢️ YouTube πŸ“· Instagram πŸ‘₯ Facebook Group 🐦 Twitter

🎡 Fuel your mindset: Merko Motivation Spotify Playlist Listen on Spotify

πŸ“ Legal Stuff

By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that the entire contents are the property of John Merkus or used by permission, protected under international copyright and trademark laws. You may save and use this content for personal or educational use only.

Reproduction, retransmission, or editing is not permitted without prior written consent from John Merkus. For permissions, contact: john@johnmerkus.com

This podcast is for educational purposes only. The host accepts no responsibility for any loss or damage resulting from the use or interpretation of information presented.

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