Move The Chains Podcast | Unlocking Your Full Potential with Ryan Munsey

Latest Episodes:

MTC 014: Gary Chupik | Unlocking Elite Mindset and Peak Performance Aug 05, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Move the Chains podcast, host Ryan Munsey speaks with mental performance coach Gary Chupik about the critical role of self-leadership in achieving high performance in sports and business. The conversation emphasizes that effective leadership begins with leading oneself and understanding individual strengths to foster a thriving environment.

Ryan Munsey and Gary Chupik delve into the concepts of resilience and anti-fragility, emphasizing the importance of not just returning to baseline after adversity but thriving beyond it. They discuss the importance of motivation, the leadership pyramid, and the need for simplicity in communication. Gary shares insights on crisis management and the significance of continuous coaching for maintaining excellence.

They also discuss the significance of pre-determining actions to enhance performance, the necessity of scheduling feelings to maintain focus, and the critical role of language in shaping mindset. The conversation culminates in timeless truths for achieving an elite mindset, highlighting the importance of optimism over mere positivity, and the two key ways to build confidence: preparation and proving oneself.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Personal Journey
05:47 The Importance of Self-Leadership
09:41 The Leadership Pyramid Explained
15:22 Organizational Leadership and Vision
19:55 Simplicity in Execution and Goal Setting
22:57 Mental Health and Performance Assessment
28:32 Identifying and Utilizing Strengths
32:02 The Illusion of Choice in Performance
35:51 Emotional Control in High-Pressure Situations
41:20 Focusing on the Present Moment
44:42 The Role of Language in Leadership
50:22 Positivity vs. Optimism in Performance
53:37 Daily Practices for Success

Links

Connect w/ Gary Chupik
- Elite Mindset Nation Website
- Instagram
Connect with Ryan Munsey
- Website
- Follow Ryan on Instagram
- Subscribe to Ryan's YouTube Channel
- Connect with Ryan on LinkedIn
Get Your Copy of F*ck Your Feelings
- Audible
- Amazon
Save 10% on your first melin hat, the world's best hats: Use the code MoveTheChains10 at melin.com

MTC 013: Dr. Jay Wiles | HRV, Recovery and Performance Jul 27, 2025

Show notes

Dr. Jay Wiles is an internationally recognized speaker, scientist, clinician, and leading authority on stress physiology, human performance, and health optimization. As a clinical health and performance psychologist, he specializes in heart rate variability (HRV) biofeedback, psychophysiology, and nervous system resilience, helping individuals master their mental and physiological states to achieve peak performance.

In this episode of the Move the Chains podcast, host Ryan Munsey interviews Dr. Jay Wiles, an expert in heart rate variability (HRV) and nervous system resilience. They discuss the importance of HRV as a tool for measuring recovery and adaptability, the role of various devices in tracking HRV, and practical breathing techniques for downregulation. The conversation also covers the impact of heat and cold therapy on recovery, and concludes with advice on achieving consistency in performance and mental health.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
02:52 Understanding Heart Rate Variability (HRV) Basics
06:02 The Importance of HRV in Performance
08:55 Using HRV as a Tool for Resilience
11:58 Practical Applications of HRV in Daily Life
15:02 The Role of Subjective Experience in Data Interpretation
17:56 Choosing the Right Tools for Measuring HRV
20:52 Responding to HRV Readings: When to Adjust Training
23:54 Balancing Objective Data with Subjective Feelings
32:08 Understanding Heart Rate Variability and Injury Prevention
36:18 Optimizing Recovery for Athletes
39:02 Breathing Techniques for Down Regulation
46:12 Resonance Breathing and Its Benefits
50:00 The Role of Heat and Cold Therapy in Recovery
54:12 Wearable Technology for HRV Tracking
59:57 Innovations in Biofeedback Technology
01:04:09 Dr. Jay Wiles's Final Thoughts on Consistency

Links

Connect w/ Dr. Jay Wiles
Connect with Ryan Munsey
- Website
- Follow Ryan on Instagram
- Subscribe to Ryan's YouTube Channel
- Connect with Ryan on LinkedIn
Get Your Copy of F*ck Your Feelings
- Audible
- Amazon
Save 10% on your first melin hat, the world's best hats: Use the code MoveTheChains10 at melin.com

MTC 012: Joe Coniglio | NFL Coach on Leadership and Building Culture Jul 21, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Move the Chains podcast, host Ryan Munsey interviews Joe Coniglio, linebackers coach for the Los Angeles Rams. They discuss the importance of building relationships for effective communication, the need for fluidity and honesty in coaching, and the concept of calling players up rather than out. Joe shares insights on player development, the significance of mindset and accountability, and how to foster a competitive yet supportive team environment. He emphasizes the importance of having hard conversations with players and the role of purpose in coaching. The conversation also touches on recruitment strategies and the qualities that make a successful player in the NFL.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Coaching Philosophy
01:03 Building Relationships for Effective Communication
04:28 Fluidity and Honesty in Coaching
08:13 Calling Players Up, Not Out
11:26 Defining Expectations and Growth
15:58 Joe's Influences and Mentorship in Coaching
19:33 Communicating Standards and Culture
22:55 Interactive and Conversational Coaching
27:14 Balancing Fun and Focus in Coaching
29:19 Embracing the Gray: Freedom in Football
32:42 Recruiting for Fit: Character vs. Talent
36:33 Creating a Competitive Environment
38:25 The Mindset of a Professional
41:25 Navigating Hard Conversations
45:13 Playing with Passion and Urgency
46:56 Living with Purpose and Impact

Links

Joe Coniglio on Instagram
LA Rams: Beyond The Grind YouTube Series
Los Angeles Rams Website
Connect with Ryan Munsey
- Website
- Follow Ryan on Instagram
- Subscribe to Ryan's YouTube Channel
- Connect with Ryan on LinkedIn
Get Your Copy of F*ck Your Feelings
- Audible
- Amazon
Save 10% on your first melin hat, the world's best hats: Use the code MoveTheChains10 at melin.com

MTC 011: Solo Episode | Wedges, Kobe, and Comfort Jul 15, 2025

Show notes

In this solo episode, I'm sharing three tips and strategies to help you train your brain for success so you can unlock high performance. First, you'll learn how to avoid impulse reactions and decisions by using "wedges" as tools to separate stimulus from response. Building this habit of using these mental pauses increases control, reduces stress, and strengthens discipline.

Next, I'll share one my favorite wedge questions - an easy mindset strategy that will help you train yourself to think like an elite athlete, by shifting our perspective and reframing a situation to explore how our favorite high performers might approach the same scenario. This is a great way to remind yourself that the best in the world don't let comfort dictate their choices - they commit and execute.

Finally, we look at how comfort is the enemy of growth and progress.

Links

Connect with Ryan Munsey
- Website
- Follow Ryan on Instagram
- Subscribe to Ryan's YouTube Channel
- Connect with Ryan on LinkedIn
Get Your Copy of F*ck Your Feelings
- Audible
- Amazon
Save 10% on your first melin hat, the world's best hats: Use the code MoveTheChains10 at melin.com

MTC 010: Yair Klyman | Unlocking Financial Literacy Jul 07, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Move the Chains podcast, Ryan Munsey interviews Yair Klyman, a financial strategist and founder of Klyman Financial. They discuss the importance of financial literacy, strategies for overcoming debt, and the significance of aligning personal values with financial goals. Yair shares insights on creating generational wealth, common financial mistakes, and how to determine the best investment strategies for you. This conversation emphasizes the need for curiosity and proactive behavior in managing finances, as well as the balance between consumption and creation in today's digital age.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
02:52 Geopolitical Insights from an Israeli Defense Force Veteran
05:42 Understanding Financial Literacy
08:49 Behavior Change in Financial Literacy
11:53 Strategies for Overcoming Debt
14:48 The Importance of Saving and Automating Finances
17:35 Investing Wisely: Cash vs. Assets
20:31 Navigating Student Debt
23:28 Creating Generational Wealth
32:00 Diverse Investment Strategies
33:34 Starting Your Financial Journey
35:51 Understanding Roth IRAs and Backdoor Roths
38:36 Creating Generational Wealth
42:19 Common Financial Mistakes
46:05 The Importance of Recurring Revenue
49:02 The Role of Visionaries in Business
51:50 Balancing Consumption and Creation
54:08 Navigating Technology with Kids
56:31 Yair's Final Thoughts and Advice to Move The Chains

Links

Connect with Yair Klyman:
- Website: klymanfinancial.com
- Instagram: @klymanfinancial
- Podcast: Resilient Riches
Connect with Ryan Munsey
- Website
- Follow Ryan on Instagram
- Subscribe to Ryan's YouTube Channel
- Connect with Ryan on LinkedIn
Get Your Copy of F*ck Your Feelings
- Audible
- Amazon
Save 10% on your first melin hat, the world's best hats: Use the code MoveTheChains10 at melin.com

MTC 009: Brian Barney | Winning Mindset & Building A Life Around Your Passion Jun 30, 2025

Show notes

My guest on the Move The Chains Podcast this week is my buddy Brian Barney, a professional bowhunter who writes for Eastman's Hunting Journal and hosts the Eastman's Elevated Podcast.

We discuss Brian's journey of turning his love for hunting into a lifestyle, the importance of self-investment, overcoming fear, and achieving financial freedom. Brian shares insights on developing an unbeatable mindset, mastering skills, maintaining a positive attitude, and the significance of timing and strategy in both hunting and life. He emphasizes the value of consistency (Move The Chains!) and hard work in pursuing your goals, and shares actionable tips for you to improve any and every area of your life.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Brian Barney and His Journey
03:22 Building a Passion-Driven Career
09:26 Overcoming Fear and Taking Action
13:51 Financial Health and Lifestyle Design
20:24 The Concept of Shrinking Mountains
25:56 Maintaining a Positive Mindset in Adversity
29:10 The Power of Positive Mindset
30:47 Timing and Strategy in Hunting
33:21 Effort vs. Productivity
38:21 Future Goals and Mentorship
41:14 Preparing for Hunts: Mental and Physical
47:41 Sharing the Journey: Podcasts and Films

Takeaways

Mastering a craft requires dedication and self-investment.
Fear of failure should not hold you back from pursuing your dreams.
Financial health allows for greater freedom in life choices.
Consistency and hard work are key to achieving goals.
A positive mindset can help overcome adversity.
Timing and strategy are crucial in both hunting and life pursuits.
Preparation is essential for success in challenging environments.
Visualizing success can enhance performance in high-pressure situations.
Life is about finding joy in the journey and pursuing what you love.

Links:

Connect With Brian
- Instagram: @brian__barney
- Weekly Podcast: Eastmans' Elevated
- Biweekly Podcast: Eastmans' Life Of A Bowhunter
- YouTube: @EastmansHuntingJournals --> Beyond The Grid
Connect with Ryan:
- Website
- Follow Ryan on Instagram
- Subscribe to Ryan's YouTube Channel
- Connect with Ryan on LinkedIn
Get Your Copy of F*ck Your Feelings
- Audible
- Amazon
Save 10% on your first melin hat, the world's best hats: Use the code MoveTheChains10 at melin.com

MTC 008: Tim Shields | Leadership, Mastery, and Limited Thinking Jun 23, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Move the Chains podcast, Ryan Munsey interviews Tim Shields, a writer and collaborator at the intersection of science and consciousness. They discuss the importance of self-talk, visualization, and the journey of personal growth through something Tim calls dream tethering. Tim shares his experiences with mentors, the significance of discipline in achieving goals, and the role of leadership in fostering an expansive presence for others. The conversation emphasizes the need for internal healing and self-awareness as foundational elements for effective leadership and personal success. In this conversation, Tim Shields and Ryan Munsey explore the importance of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and the journey of personal growth. They discuss strategies for identifying limiting beliefs, the significance of manifestation combined with action, and the transformative power of the Hero's Journey as a metaphor for the evolution of consciousness. Tim shares personal insights and practical exercises that have helped him navigate his emotional landscape and achieve mastery over his reactions to external stimuli.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 02:24 The Power of Self-Talk and Visualization 06:00 Inciting Incidents and the Journey to Writing 10:12 Creating a Blueprint for Success 12:39 Cultivating the Practice of Dream Tethering 16:34 The Role of Leadership in Personal Growth 24:07 Healing from Within and Its Impact on Leadership 30:09 Understanding Emotions and Self-Awareness 37:43 The Power of Manifestation and Action 44:47 The Hero's Journey and Evolution of Consciousness

Takeaways

Everyone needs big goals, but attack them one step at a time.
Self-talk can create self-fulfilling prophecies.
Visualization and self-awareness are key to personal growth.
Discipline is essential for achieving writing and life goals.
Creating a clear mission statement helps guide your actions.
You must become the energy of what you want to attract.
Surrendering control can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Leadership begins with internal change and self-awareness.
Healing yourself allows you to better serve others.
The journey of personal growth is a never-ending labyrinth. Self-awareness is crucial for understanding emotions.
Identifying limiting beliefs can lead to personal growth.
Mastery involves controlling reactions to external situations.
Manifestation requires action, not just hope.
Creating a vision is essential for achieving goals.
Emotional healing involves recognizing past traumas.
The Hero's Journey reflects the evolution of consciousness.
Energy is the foundation of our reality.
Movement can enhance creativity and problem-solving.
Being still and focused helps clarify desires.

LINKS

Connect with Tim Shields
- Website
- Podcast: The Inciting Incident
- Book: A Curious Year
- YouTube
- Instagram
- TikTok
Get Your Copy of F*ck Your Feelings
- Audible
- Amazon
Connect with Ryan:
- Website
- Follow Ryan on Instagram
- Subscribe to Ryan's YouTube Channel
- Connect with Ryan on LinkedIn

Save 10% on your first melin hat, the world's best hats: Use the code MoveTheChains10 at melin.com

MTC 007: Dena Ali | The Surprising Power of Environment on Mental Health Jun 16, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of the Move the Chains Podcast, Ryan Munsey speaks with Dena Ali, a battalion chief with the Raleigh (NC) Fire Department and mental wellness advocate for first responders. Dena is also the Program Manager for Behavioral Health for the First Responder Center For Excellence, and the author of the Fire Engineering bestselling book Hope out of Darkness ~ A Guide to First Responder Mental Wellness. They discuss the importance of understanding mental health struggles through the lens of environmental factors rather than personal blame. The conversation emphasizes the significance of patience, emotional intelligence, and the need to address root causes of mental health issues rather than just treating symptoms. In this conversation, Dena Ali discusses the importance of shifting from a reactive to a proactive approach in mental health, particularly for first responders. She emphasizes building resilience through adversity, the power of gratitude, and the significance of humor in coping with stress. Dena also highlights the critical role of sleep in maintaining mental and physical health, and the need for first responders to have tools and strategies - including play - to manage their mental wellness effectively.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mental Wellness in First Responders
02:01 Understanding Struggles and Environment
03:22 Personal Journey to Mental Wellness
08:54 The Role of Adversity in Growth
11:58 From Research to Action: A Turning Point
18:09 The Impact of Sharing Experiences
22:02 Courage and Emotional Intelligence in Advocacy
24:33 Patience and the Long Road to Change
28:48 Getting Upstream: Addressing Root Causes
29:13 From Reaction to Prevention: A Shift in Perspective
30:25 Building Resilience: The Power of Adversity
31:55 The Importance of Gratitude in Challenging Times
34:49 Managing Stress: The Stress Bucket Analogy
36:58 The Role of Humor in First Responder Culture
41:11 Understanding Sleep: A Critical Component of Health
52:19 Empowering First Responders: Tools for Mental Wellness
54:08 The Balance of Play and Work

Links

Connect with Dena:
- LinkedIn: Dena Ali
- Instagram: @dma1096
- Website: firstrespondercenter.org
Get Dena's Book: Hope Out of Darkness
Get Your Copy of F*ck Your Feelings
- Audible
- Amazon
Connect with Ryan:
- Website
- Follow Ryan on Instagram
- Subscribe to Ryan's YouTube Channel
- Connect with Ryan on LinkedIn

Save 10% on your first melin hat, the world's best hats: Use the code MoveTheChains10 at melin.com

MTC 006: Brant Menswar | Creating Momentum And Changing The Way You Think Jun 09, 2025

Show notes

Brant Menswar is a former rock-star turned best-selling author who has been named one of the country's top speakers. He seamlessly fuses proprietary research, personal growth principles, and cutting-edge leadership strategies to forge unbreakable, high-performing cultures while inspiring companies to crush their BIG goals.

In this episode of Move the Chains, Ryan Munsey and Brant Menswar explore the importance of prioritizing people and processes over tools in achieving success. They discuss Brant's journey from being a rock star to a keynote speaker, emphasizing the significance of creating engaging experiences for audiences. The conversation also touches on the transition to corporate speaking, the power of core values, and the innovative strategies that can lead to success in various fields. In this conversation, Brant Menswar discusses the importance of living with deliberate intention through values, the process of overcoming grief and building momentum in life, and the concept of 'moment momentum' which emphasizes focusing on the present. He introduces the OGRE concept, which stands for an overwhelming gut reaction of emotion, and explains how to channel emotional energy into positive actions. Brant also highlights the significance of identifying personal values to navigate challenges and shares his initiative of using challenge coins to create momentum for others, ultimately emphasizing the idea that legacy is about helping others move forward.

Chapters

00:00 People and Processes Over Tools
02:50 From Rock Star to Keynote Speaker
09:51 The Transition to Corporate Speaking
18:17 Creating Engaging Experiences
25:44 The Power of Core Values
26:11 Finding Purpose Through Values
28:04 Overcoming Grief and Building Momentum
29:57 Moment Momentum: Living in the Present
34:55 Harnessing Emotional Energy: The OGRE Concept
39:36 Channeling Emotions for Positive Action
42:14 Identifying Values to Navigate Challenges
46:34 Creating Momentum for Others: The Challenge Coin
49:52 Final Thoughts: Living Moment to Moment

Links:

Connect with Brant Menswar:
Brant's Books:
- Black Sheep
- Designing Momentum
Books Mentioned:
- Find Your Red Thread by Tamswen Webster
Get Your Copy of F*ck Your Feelings

- Audible (ON SALE THIS MONTH!)
- Amazon
Connect with Ryan:
- Website
- Follow Ryan on Instagram
- Subscribe to Ryan's YouTube Channel
- Connect with Ryan on LinkedIn

Save 10% on your first melin hat, the world's best hats: Use the code MoveTheChains10 at melin.com

MTC 005: Jeff Nichols and Katherine Grimm | Building Peaceful Warriors Jun 02, 2025

Show notes

My friends Jeff Nichols and Katherine Grimm join me on this episode of the Move The Chains Podcast to discuss the impact of mindfulness, self-awareness and energy management on optimal performance.

Retired Navy SEAL Jeff Nichols and meditation coach Katherine Grimm own and run Performance First, where they equip the next generation of warriors with physical, mental and emotional tools to enhace their performance and well-being. Jeff and Katherine share proven strategies for high achievers to navigate the demands of high-pressure environments and manage your performance.

This is a great converstion about the need for self-reflection and patience on the continuous journey of personal development, while also touching on the importance of community and future plans for growth.

Chapters

00:00 Optimizing Performance for High Achievers
03:00 The Importance of Bandwidth Management
06:02 Down Regulation: Finding Balance
08:58 Tools for Mental Resilience
11:53 The Role of Awareness in Performance
15:10 Building a Toolbox for Success
18:12 Equipping the Next Generation
21:09 The Impact of Self-Awareness on Performance
30:06 The Power of Coaching and Connection
32:52 Mind-Body Connection and Down Regulation Tools
34:59 Success in Training: The Role of Authenticity
39:00 Building a Supportive Community in Training
42:10 The Importance of Mentorship and Generosity
43:59 The Art of Performing a Rep
47:00 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life
50:01 Creating a Thriving Environment for Growth
53:02 Building Trust and Consistency in Training
01:05:20 The Importance of Action and Education
01:06:53 Connecting Through Music and Experiences
01:08:46 Finding Purpose and Community
01:10:14 Managing Expectations and Impressions
01:11:25 Practicing Patience and Self-Reflection
01:12:25 Behavior Change and Emotional Triggers
01:15:52 The Challenge of Control and Driving
01:18:30 Unpacking Reactions and Emotional Responses
01:21:50 Harnessing Emotions and Down Regulation
01:24:42 Exploring New Avenues for Growth
01:25:17 Connecting with the Community and Future Plans

Links:

Connect with Jeff and Katherine:
- Website: performancefirstus.com
- YouTube: @jeffnicholscscsdtsacd149
- Instagram: @jeffcscs | @fitsol22
Books Mentioned:
- Managing Transitions
- Elevate and Dominate: 21 Ways to Win On and Off the Field
Get Your Copy of F*ck Your Feelings

- Audible (ON SALE THIS MONTH!)
- Amazon
Connect with Ryan:
- Website
- Follow Ryan on Instagram
- Subscribe to Ryan's YouTube Channel
- Connect with Ryan on LinkedIn

Save 10% on your first melin hat, the world's best hats: Use the code MoveTheChains10 at melin.com

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