Open Your Eyes with McKay Christensen

The "belief window" - the invisible lenses that shape how we interpret every life event - comes under McKay’s learned scrutiny today as he explains that, while we assume we see objective reality, our brains actually construct our experiences based on past conditioning. He then demonstrates that questioning these default settings moves us from being constrained by old perspectives to being empowere...

McKay demonstrates that life's greatest victories are achieved through steady, everyday efforts rather than sudden breakthroughs through his exploration of the "go the distance" mindset. While our world celebrates quick finishes, real resilience is forged in the quiet, ongoing dedication that persists long after the initial excitement fades. Alongside his friend Austin's adaptation to a paralyzing...

McKay explores the "because I choose to" mindset - the principle that circumstances don't dictate our reality or outcomes. Throughout the episode he demonstrates that, while life often burdens us with the heavy weight of "I have to," freedom and success emerge when we recognize our inherent agency to choose our response. In addition to highlighting Ashleigh Barty's intentional return to tennis and...

The transformative power of the "gentle slope," the principle that our lives are not defined by singular, dramatic events, but by the accumulation of tiny, consistent choices comes under McKay’s scrutiny today. Acknowledging that the world often waits for a "lightning strike" of inspiration, our host explains that true change happens through the quiet persistence of daily habits. Analyzing the his...

McKay explores Dolly Parton’s philosophy of ‘finding the God-light in everyone’ as a transformative leadership discipline. He argues that choosing to see potential rather than faults is a practical way to inspire growth and redirect lives. Our host highlights how belief in others alters history through the stories of Louis Armstrong, Walt Disney, and Abraham Lincoln. Detailing Nelson Mandela’s hea...

McKay investigates the concept that the defining factor of success isn't staying perfectly motivated, but rather the courage to "begin again" every time life knocks you down. He explains that meaningful breakthroughs are often the result of quiet, repeated decisions made long before the world notices the "home run." Drawing on powerful narratives of late bloomers and resilient leaders, McKay shows...

McKay continues his “What is a Leader” series this week by delving into even more critical leadership questions and drawing further inspiration from history and notable figures. In this installment he reviews the challenges faced by leaders and teams, and explores such themes as igniting change, fostering explosive growth, bending reality, and turning the tide. Throughout this thought-provoking ep...

In today’s episode of Open Your Eyes, McKay guides listeners through a thought-provoking exploration of the criteria by which we measure our lives. Combining an analysis of lives spectacularly well-lived with his own learnings and sage observations, our host demonstrates the critical importance of ensuring these criteria are firmly founded upon those aspects in life that truly matter. The episode...

This week, McKay takes a look at that all too familiar feeling of not really wanting to do something, and then proceeds to highlight the potential benefits of actually going ahead and doing that thing anyway. Filled with his trademark stories, reflections, and insights, our host’s investigation here today offers enlightening lessons on motivation, discipline, and purpose that promise to transform...

In this captivating episode of Open Your Eyes, McKay takes listeners on a profound journey into the heart of success, anchored by the fundamental principle that "nothing great is easy." As he navigates through history's remarkable achievements, from conquering the English Channel to surviving the tumultuous descent over Niagara Falls, he spotlights the unyielding spirit of individuals who embraced...

McKay’s focus today is on the power of discovering what lies within ourselves, and he begins by introducing the story of Aaron Sorkin. Armed with a passion for drama and theater from an early age, it wasn't until Aaron dared to fail that he found success. His story serves as a testament to the power of daring to fail and discovering what lies within us. McKay also shares the stories of Eric and La...

In this week’s episode, McKay explores the road that lays ahead of you in your life. He begins this exploration by sharing two stories from Tom Watson's experiences at the Masters Tournament which highlight the importance of embracing both the highs and lows in life. These stories serve as powerful reminders for us to reflect on our own journey, to navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead w...

Join McKay this week as he encourages listeners to recognize opportunities, overcome hesitations, and boldly open life's doors. Reviewing significant doors that have been opened in the past, such as the creation of the Panama Canal, McKay explores the significance of taking well-calculated risks and embracing change as a means to opening doors in our life. Drawing inspiration from these and other...

This week, McKay focuses on the theme of doubt and the profound impact it can have upon our self-view and decision-making. Drawing upon a variety of anecdotes and impeccable resources, he emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in recognizing and challenging doubt in order to prevent it from hindering progress, draining our energy, and creating a sense of unease in our lives . Throughout the e...

Welcome to another enlightening episode of Open Your Eyes this week as McKay takes us all on an inspiring exploration of the rising tide in our lives and the transformative power of faith. With vivid storytelling and profound insights, he presents examples and perspectives that empower us all to harness these rising tides in our own lives and break free from the currents that hold us back. Illustr...

McKay explores the opportunity to begin again in life and business. Citing a number of examples, including Coca Cola’s infamous launch of "New Coke" in the 1980s, he illustrates how failure is not the end, but rather an opportunity to learn and regroup. As McKay notes, beginning again each and every day is an essential component in life - a true gift from God, allowing us to continually wash away...

This week, McKay brings to life the topics of leadership and influence. He begins with the story of Oscar Hammerstein, illustrating the power of genuine influence. Real influence is gained through understanding others’ perspectives and being patient in their attempts to improve. It also grows with the proper use of inspiration, humor, and creativity in our relationships. McKay also shares principl...

McKay reveals why the most critical factor for success in business and life isn't the product, price, or timing, but the power of a compelling story. He demonstrates that the "best story wins" by reframing value, creating emotional connection, and motivating action in ways that data and features alone cannot. Drawing on case studies from disruptive brands like Canva, Duolingo, and Moderna, McKay s...

McKay investigates the concept of the "Matthew effect," a phenomenon where early advantages and earnest effort compound into lifelong success. Throughout the episode, he reveals exactly how this powerful principle explains why early starters in business, sports, and education disproportionately outperform their peers over the long term. Drawing on Benjamin Franklin as well as Canadian youth hockey...

The concept of the "20-mile march," a principle that prioritizes relentless consistency over the common trap of erratic intensity, comes under McKay’s scrutiny this week. He demonstrates how this disciplined approach allows individuals and organizations to outperform their peers by focusing on steady progress regardless of external conditions. Drawing on historic Antarctic expeditions and Jim Coll...

McKay explores the counterintuitive truth that motivation is a byproduct of action rather than a prerequisite for it. Dismantling the myth that we must "feel ready" to begin, he provides a practical roadmap for moving forward even when personal drive has stalled. Drawing on insights from leaders like Warren Buffett and Jeff Bezos, McKay highlights the power of compounding consistency and the impor...

Delving into the delicate art of helping others change, McKay focuses on the patience and environmental shifts required to spark true transformation. By shifting our role from a fixer to a supporter, we allow others the space to evolve on their own terms through belief rather than pressure. Drawing on leadership lessons from former Naval Commander Michael Abrashoff and the "Roots and Wings" analog...

McKay explores how to join the "top 1% club" by shifting our focus from external comparisons of wealth to the internal pursuit of what we personally value. By redefining success around life satisfaction and creative freedom, we can find a clearer path toward becoming part of the elite tier in the areas that matter most. True separation from the majority occurs in ordinary, unobserved moments throu...

As we begin this new year, McKay explores how lasting transformation is achieved by shifting our focus from setting unmotivating goals to redefining our fundamental identity. He discusses the necessity of breaking free from the "murky middle" by deciding who we will no longer be and who we aspire to become. Our host examines how procrastination is often a failure to manage moods rather than a lack...

McKay delves into the power to be found in shifting our perspective from suspicion to grace. He notes that, by choosing to believe the best in others, we bridge the social gaps that often leave us feeling isolated or misunderstood. Moving beyond the "Liking Gap," where we underestimate how much others value us, this episode examines how "positive attribution bias" can revolutionize leadership and...