The Slight Shift Show…Just a Little Bit More…Or Less…

Hosted by Chris Berlow

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100

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Jun 2026

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About the show

Did you know that by doing just a little bit more each day and making slight shifts every day can have a massive impact on your personal and professional life? The Slight Shift Show is here for financial advisors, high achievers, entrepreneurs, self-employed professionals, and driven individuals who are constantly producing, striving, and juggling it all. The Shift Show…We know what you're thinking…but we got you! If you're aiming to increase revenue and put the systems in place for a balanced life, while managing the demands of a successful career and a fulfilling family life, join us on the Slight Shift Show. Hosted by Martial Arts Grandmaster and serial entrepreneur Chris Berlow author of the best-selling book, "You Have Infinite Power" and Award-winning Financial Advisor and author Angela Vahue. Chris and Angela have been trusted by countless high achievers to build a philosophy of Be Better Every Day, or better known in Asian philosophy as Il Il Shin. Il Il Shin teaches consistent micro-improvements compound into major transformation over time. In other words, Slight Shifts each day! They've coached thousands of ambitious achievers, including financial advisors and other professions to build habits of slight shifts every day, without sacrificing their health, relationships, or peace of mind. Whether you're building your financial services business, a business owner who's tired of trading personal time for professional wins, or a growth-minded leader looking to achieve multi-dimensional success, you'll find practical, powerful guidance here. Each episode is packed with actionable insights, high-performance habits, and candid interviews to help you thrive in every area of life. Regular topics covered on The Focused Edge Podcast • High-performance habits for demanding careers • Work-life balance for entrepreneurs • Success without burnout • Time management for professionals • Business growth strategies • Peak performance • Entrepreneurial mindsets • Scaling an advisor business • Enjoying quality family time as a high achiever • High-income growth strategies • Productivity for busy professionals Get ready to be inspired, equipped, and energized….so you too can do Just a Little Bit More!

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60 recent

June 4, 202642 min

How to focus on true growth and shift your attention inward, trading external comparison for personal progress

The true path to fulfillment lies in trading external comparison and excuses for the courage to connect deeply and improve yourself from within, one slight shift at a time. In this lively episode of the Slight Shift Show, Angela and Chris discuss how small, intentional adjustments can completely transform your perspective and enrich your life. The discussion revolves around what the world needs more and less of today. Key Discussion Highlights: The Power of More Courage: Angela emphasizes that the world needs more courage to combat the fear of failure and the constant comparison bred by social media. The Courage to Fail: They discuss reframing failure into a positive learning experience, referencing how the founder of Spanx was encouraged by her father to celebrate daily failures as steppingstones to success. Eliminating Excuses: A deep dive into the difference between a legitimate reason (circumstances beyond your control) and an excuse (deflecting ownership). Chris and Angela argue that taking personal accountability eliminates the need for excuses. Fostering Real Connection: Angela and Chris highlight the loss of joy and presence when devices replace face-to-face interaction, advocating for true, tech-free human engagement. Internal vs. External Comparison: The episode wraps up with a powerful "final shift." Challenging you to stop comparing yourself to others on social media and instead focus on being better than you were yesterday.

May 21, 202632 min

Why Saying "Thank you" "I'm Sorry" Is Your Secret Leadership Superpower

Accepting responsibility is not about condoning bad behavior. It is about having the humility to admit where you could have communicated or led better. In this episode of The Slight Shift Show, Chris and Angela dive deep into Principle #8 of the Il Il Shin Philosophy. The concept of "Thank You and I'm Sorry." Moving far beyond kindergarten manners, Angela and Chris explore how applying these two phrases at a foundational level can completely dissolve tension in your relationships, leadership, and parenting. "Thank you" and "I'm sorry" can deepen your relationships both personally and in business. Key Discussion Points: The Il Il Shin Philosophy: Principle #8 encourages deep humility and ego reduction by shifting perspective during moments of friction. The Power of Ownership: "Thank you" means showing gratitude for the lesson or awareness a situation brings, while "I'm sorry" means taking responsibility for your own communication gaps rather than deflecting blame. Real-World Application: How a leader used this exact framework to transform a difficult performance review with an assistant into a breakthrough of mutual respect. Internal Awareness: The importance of practicing self-forgiveness and monitoring your own tonality during uncomfortable interactions.

May 14, 202638 min

The Art and Importance of Constant Training

True growth isn't a destination, but the result of choosing to stay in "training mode" through every life challenge. On this episode of the Slight Shift Show, Angela and Chris dive into personal stories about overcoming limiting beliefs, the trap of "waiting for the right time," and how to redefine "training" as a holistic practice for the mind, body, and soul. How to redefine training mode: The "When/Then" Trap: Angela discusses how many people chase a finish line, thinking they will be happy when a project is done or when they reach a certain milestone. Only to find the goalposts have moved. The shift is learning to let life's goals run in tandem with current happiness. Redefining Training (ABT): Chris introduces the concept of ABT (Always Be Training). He explains that training isn't just about the gym. It's about training your response to a rude driver, practicing patience, and preemptively sharpening your mindset through meditation and reading to handle stress before it hits. The Power of Self-Respite: Angela shares her journey of unlearning the guilt associated with taking time for herself. She explains how "recentering" through documentaries or quiet time allows her to show up as a better person for others. Overcoming External Labels: Chris and Angela reflect on moments where a "wrong" belief was handed to them. They discuss the importance of shedding those external narratives to create a new trajectory. The "Training Extra Hard" Mindset: Angela shares her favorite mental shift. When life gets frustrating or overwhelming, tell yourself, "I'm just training extra hard today." This reframe turns a negative experience into a productive exercise in grace, patience, or resilience. Digital Presence vs. Reality: A discussion on the importance of looking up from our phones to smile and connect with the people right in front of us, emphasizing that the most important moment is always the one you are currently at.

May 7, 202635 min

How entrepreneurs and high achievers can reclaim childhood authenticity

"True fulfillment comes from reclaiming your childhood authenticity by choosing to care less about external judgment and more about internal truth." Chris and Angela dive deep into the transition from the "spicy" frustrations of adult responsibilities to the pure, uninhibited joy of childhood. They explore why we lose our sense of self as we age. The "Slight Shifters" offer practical shifts to help you navigate a judgmental society. Through the lens of the "Four Quarters" friendship philosophy and the power of introspection, Chris and Angela remind us that while the "idle mind is the devil's playground," a conscious mind is the key to reclaiming your joy. Key Discussion Points The "Four Quarters" Philosophy: Why it is more valuable to have four high-quality, "quarter" friends you can trust with your "spicy" thoughts than a hundred "pennies" (acquaintances) who only see your polished exterior. Childhood Innocence vs. Adult Cynicism: A look at how children exist in a state of pure happiness, unbothered by whoever is watching them or whether their "outfit matches," and when exactly society begins to strip that away. The Trap of the Idle Mind: Discussion on how modern conveniences and technology have given us too much time to overthink, leading to a "devil's playground" of anxiety and comparison. The "Care Less" Article: Chris explains the power of caring less about things outside of your control, such as others' opinions, so you can care more about the things you can control, including your reactions and integrity. The Power of Introspection: Using daily check-ins to ensure your "inside" matches your "outside" and staying true to your authentic self regardless of professional or social pressures.

April 30, 202635 min

The Power of Dreaming Big… Anyway

"The most powerful way to navigate uncertainty is to transform your fear into fuel by relentlessly focusing on your desired outcome rather than the obstacles in your path." In this episode of The Slight Shift Show, Chris and Angela explore the mental discipline required to maintain a massive vision during seasons of doubt, health challenges, or global instability. They discuss why high achievers reverse-engineer their lives from a specific feeling of success. Whether you are recovering from a health crisis or navigating a career shift, this conversation serves as a manual for using self-talk to bridge the gap between where you are and where you dream to be. Dreaming Big! The Shark vs. The Shore: Why millionaires focus on obstacles (the sharks), while billionaires focus exclusively on the destination (the shore). Directing Toward a Feeling: Insights from filmmaker Jon M. Chu on reverse-engineering actions based on the emotional response you want to create. Determination in Recovery: Angela shares her personal story of post-stroke recovery and the singular focus required to achieve small, yet symbolic, goals. Fear as Fuel: Shifting the perspective of fear from a paralyzing force to a driving energy that propels you toward your Big Dream. The "Yeah, But" Strategy: Using positive self-talk to counter negative internal narratives and maintain slight shifts in perspective. Dream Big Anyway: A call to action to maintain your vision even when you lack total control over your current environment.

April 16, 202643 min

Embracing the Concept of Be Better Every Day- The Power of Il Il Shin

In this episode of The Slight Shift Show, Chris and Angela are joined by Grandmaster Keith Winkle for a deep dive into the Il Il Shin philosophy. This traditional Korean concept, which translates to "renew every day" or "Be Better Every Day" serves as the foundational blueprint for the Slight Shift Show podcast. They discuss how this ancient wisdom provides a practical bridge between high-performance success and genuine inner peace. If you are an entrepreneur, business owner or high achiever, this is a must have conversation. Key Discussion Points Il Il Shin as a Lifestyle: Angela explains why she views the philosophy as a permanent lifestyle change rather than a "fad diet," emphasizing consistent mindfulness and self-awareness. The Humility of Mastery: A reflection on the profound influence of Grandmaster Kim, noting how true masters remain humble, serve others, and continue to "renew" their training despite decades of achievement. Permission to be Human: A powerful segment on the "societal shift" needed to embrace vulnerability. Angela shares how the philosophy gives people a "permission slip" to express emotions without guilt. Habits When No One is Looking: Grandmaster Winkle highlights the importance of keeping personal rules and maintaining integrity in private, which ultimately dictates one's trajectory in life. Avoiding Anger: The cost of anger, noting that a single outburst can discredit hours of personal development and physical training. The Power of Training Partners: Why having a training partner or a like-minded community is essential for accountability and maintaining growth.

April 9, 202637 min

The Power of Presence for High Achievers and Entrepreneurs

The "Slight Shifters" dive into the profound impact of being truly present in life's most significant moments. Drawing from a weekend of major milestones, including a high-stakes NCAA tournament game and a "wedding of the century" Angela and Chris explore how disconnecting from our devices allows us to anchor "core memories" into our subconscious. By making the slight shift from capturing life through a lens to experiencing it with our own eyes, we create internal high-definition "videos" that last an eternity. Sligh Shift Discussion Points: The Phone-Free Challenge: Chris shares his decision to go entirely phone-free during his son's wedding, discovering that the emotional intensity of the day was far better preserved in his mind than on a screen. Creating Core Memories: Angela recounts witnessing a miraculous three-point buzzer-beater at the Elite Eight. The group's collective realization that they actually saw it with their own eyes, rather than on the jumbotron, became the highlight of the experience. The Buddhist Philosophy of Time: A discussion on the idea that being 100% engaged in a single moment allows that moment to "last for eternity" within your subconscious. Escaping Digital Captivity: Practical shifts for managing technology, such as: Using "Do Not Disturb" as a default setting. Turning off all non-essential notifications. Externalizing reminders, instead of sending late-night texts that disrupt others. The Library of the Mind: Why prioritizing internal "images" over social media "likes" leads to a more enriched life and deeper connections with loved ones.

April 2, 202633 min

How controlling your inner dialogue is the ultimate freedom

In this episode of The Slight Shift Show, Chris and Angela explore the profound impact of small mental adjustments. They dive into the concept of "seasonal depression," the power of internal narratives, and how a simple "slight shift" in vocabulary, can transform "Impossible" into "I'm Possible." Drawing on the philosophy of Il Il Shin…Be Better Every Day, they discuss why the voices inside must dominate the influences outside. Key Discussion Points Combating Seasonal Depression: How shifting focus from the "gray skies" to the "stillness of the air" can change your emotional state during seasonal transitions. The Power of Narrative: A discussion on Victor Frankl's Man's Search for Meaning and how controlling your inner dialogue is the ultimate freedom. The Reticular Activating System (RAS): Why you see more of what you focus on, whether it's negative thoughts or a specific make of car. "I Can't" vs. "I Can Try": Angela shares a story from her Girl Scout troop about how removing a single word can unlock a child's, or adult's potential. Rule Number One of Il Il Shin: Keeping the rules even when there are no rules, the essence of self-discipline and mastery. The "Yeah, But" Challenge: A practical tool to counter negative thoughts by immediately following them with a positive alternative.

March 26, 202634 min

Choosing Laughter Over Tears-Slight Shifts Change Perspectives

In this lighthearted episode of the Slight Shift Show, Chris and Angela take a break from their usual self-improvement strategies to host a "Stupid-Off." The Slight Shifters reflect on the questionable decisions they made from childhood through adulthood, proving that sometimes the best way to handle life's mishaps is simply to choose laughter. By sharing stories of rusty slides, BMX blunders, and accidental storefront smashings, they remind listeners that minor shifts in perspective, like embracing our human silliness, can lead to a more joyful, less stressful life. Key Discussion Points The Philosophy of the "Slight Shift": How small changes in habit or mindset, such as choosing to laugh during a crisis, create the biggest life improvements. The "Kindergarten" Mindset: Why adults should return to the simple lessons of sharing, laughing, and not taking life so seriously. Chris and Angela also laugh at many other blunders in their lives that could have been serious but as they look back there are instances where they can laugh about life and the experiences. Learn how to shift your perspective from bad to good and join Angela and Chris for a few laughs!

March 19, 202636 min

The Silent Killer of Success: Why Anger is Your Biggest Liability

In this episode of The Slight Shift Show, Chris and Angela dive deep into the second principle of Il Il Shin. Avoiding anger at all costs. While passion is a strength, unchecked anger acts as a destructive force that destroys you from the inside out, impacting both physical health and mental clarity. Drawing from personal anecdotes, Chris and Angela explore why shifting from a reactive emotional state to a logical, empathetic one is life-altering. They discuss the importance of self-awareness, recognizing physical "tells," and the leadership power found in remaining calm under pressure. Key Discussion Points The Il Il Shin Philosophy: Understanding the principle of renewing oneself daily and why even a single moment of anger can negate hours of personal growth and meditation. The Physical Toll of Emotion: Angela shares a powerful story of how a stressful airport experience years ago caused physical chest tightness that lasted for a long period of time. Identifying Your "Tells": The importance of self-awareness. Recognizing if your heart races, your palms sweat, or you shut down, and catch anger before it takes control. Control vs. Influence: Using the "90% Rule": most situations causing anger are outside of our control. The shift lies in choosing how to react internally. Channeling Energy: How to redirect the energy behind anger into productive problem-solving rather than destructive outbursts. And much more!