About this episode
Most people think they struggle with fear or failure. But the truth is, we’re often more afraid of love, joy, and being fully seen.In this episode, Dave Kashen, Jesse Pujji, and Andrew Warner uncover the hidden ways we resist appreciation, connection, and fulfillment—without even realizing it. They break down why receiving acknowledgment can feel so uncomfortable, especially for high achievers, and how this subconscious resistance affects success, relationships, and self-worth.Jesse shares a powerful story about a leadership retreat that started as an awkward exercise and transformed into one of the most emotional, game-changing experiences of his life. Dave explains why we often block love and joy, even when we deeply crave them, and recounts the personal breakthrough that allowed him to finally feel his father’s love.Andrew wrestles with his own discomfort around appreciation and recognition, uncovering the deep-seated beliefs that hold so many people back from embracing their own value. They also explore how shifting from a mindset of entitlement to appreciation can create more ease, flow, and unexpected success—without forcing it.If you’ve ever downplayed your wins, brushed off praise, or struggled to accept love, this conversation will make you rethink how you show up in the world.____________________________________________Inner Game of Entrepreneurship Newsletter: https://newsletter.davekashen.com/Bootstrapped Giants Newsletter: https://bootstrappedgiants.com/Inner Game community and coaching:https://newsletter.davekashen.com/inner-game-community____________________________________________Show Notes:00:00 - Jesse’s secret story revealed01:04 - The exercise that changed everything03:05 - Why we resist acknowledgment06:33 - The fear of love & joy07:17 - Healing isn’t what you think11:00 - Dave’s breakthrough with his dad19:24 - Billion-dollar founders crave this26:36 - Why we block appreciation27:47 - “What you appreciate, appreciates”29:08 - The trap of never enough31:47 - How entitlement blocks fulfillment37:53 - Why success feels uncomfortable46:31 - Achieving more by doing less
