The BIGG Success Show

Hosted by BIGG Success

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1205

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Aug 2026

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About the show

You are the entrepreneur of your life. BIGG Success is about taking charge of your future by thinking like an entrepreneur—even if you never start a business. We call it personal entrepreneurship: a mindset that empowers you to take control, make better decisions, and reach your goals faster. We help you create the life you want. One that aligns with your vision, mission, and values. A life that’s fulfilling in all three key areas: personal, professional, and financial. Short-term wins. Long-term success. Holistic and intentional. Your co-hosts, George Krueger and Mary-Lynn Foster, combine business smarts with heart. George, “The Professor,” is a serial entrepreneur and teaches Entrepreneurial Finance at the University of Illinois. Mary-Lynn, a veteran radio host turned entrepreneur, brings warmth and wisdom to every episode. Join us for straight talk, smart strategies, and uplifting stories to help you focus, move forward, and create the life you truly want. That’s BIGG Success!

Listen to episodes

60 recent

August 11, 20269 min

Is Your Money Creating Options?

If someone handed you $1 million, what would you do with it? Quit your job? Travel the world? Spend more time with family and friends? Start a business? Notice something? None of those answers are really about the money. They’re about the options the money creates —options you can use to create the life you want. What do you really want your money to make possible? In episode #1207, George and Mary-Lynn explore a different way to think about wealth: not by how much you earn, but by the choices your money creates. They discuss: Why a bigger income doesn’t automatically bring more freedom, Why designing your life should come before designing your finances, How intentional financial decisions can create greater flexibility over time. You’ll also discover a simple framework for earning, allocating, and creating options, plus an “Options Portfolio” exercise to connect today’s financial decisions with the choices you want tomorrow. BIGG Takeaways: Money should be viewed as a tool that creates options for your life, not just an end goal. Wealth is ultimately about the freedom to make choices that enhance your quality of life. Asking how a purchase creates more options can drastically change your financial decision-making process. Consider building an 'options portfolio' to focus on choices that align with your future goals. BIGG Chapters [00:14] Exploring Financial Options [01:00] Rethinking Money and Freedom [03:31] The True Purpose of Money [06:00] Designing Your Life and Finances [07:56] Creating Freedom through Financial Choices Links referenced in this episode: Life Map Course BIGG Success Newsletter

July 28, 20268 min

The Mid-Year Reset Every Achiever Needs

What if the goal you’re struggling to reach isn’t a motivation problem? Maybe it simply doesn’t fit anymore. In episode #1206, George and Mary-Lynn explore why changing direction doesn’t mean giving up and how a thoughtful mid-year reset can help you make the second half of the year count. In This Episode We'll Explore: One of the biggest mistakes achievers make Why resetting your goals often trumps just pushing harder How to finish the year strong BIGG Takeaways: The mid-year reset is an opportunity to reassess your goals and align them with your current life situation. Successful people know that changing a goal doesn't mean failure; it shows adaptability and wisdom in navigating life. As you reflect on the past six months, focus on lessons learned rather than what you didn't achieve. Instead of pushing harder, take a step back to ensure your goals still serve the life you want to build. BIGG Chapters [00:01] The Mid Year Reset [01:17] Reevaluating Our Goals [01:47] Embracing Change: The Importance of Goal Adjustment [04:50] Reflecting on Goals and Life Alignment [05:47] Setting Goals for the Second Half of the Year Links referenced in this episode: BIGG Success Life Map Course Join our Newsletter

July 14, 202611 min

Protect Your Attention Before It's Too Late

Your attention isn't just something you use—it shapes the life you're creating. Every day, countless people, platforms, and notifications compete for your attention. Every time you say "yes" to one thing, you're saying "no" to something else. The question isn't whether your attention is valuable. The question is whether you're investing it intentionally. In this episode, George and Mary-Lynn discuss: Why attention may be even more valuable than time. The hidden cost of constant distraction. How your attention determines the direction of your life. Five practical ways to reclaim your attention. Why protecting your focus helps you create the life you truly want. BIGG Takeaways: Every distraction has a cost, even when the interruptions seem small. Technology isn't just competing for your time, it's competing for your mind. Your attention shapes your life; the more focused you are, the more you'll achieve your dreams. To reclaim your focus, start your day intentionally by controlling your morning routine effectively. BIGG Chapters [00:14] The Neighborhood Bar Experience [01:32] The Value of Attention [03:25] The Importance of Attention in a Distracted World [04:56] Reclaiming Your Attention: 5 Practical Steps [08:32] Building Stronger Connections Through Attentive Conversations Links referenced in this episode: BIGGSuccess.com BIGG Success Newsletter BIGG Success Life Map

June 30, 20268 min

Why Success Can Feel Lonely

Success often brings opportunity, achievement, and recognition, but it doesn't automatically create meaningful connection. In episode #1204 , George & Mary-Lynn explore one of the hidden costs of achievement: how the very qualities that help us succeed can gradually pull us away from the relationships that matter most. We discuss why networking isn't the same as friendship, why relationships require intentional investment, and how small, consistent actions can strengthen the people who enrich our lives. We also share a simple relationship audit that can help you reconnect with those who matter most. BIGG Takeaways: Success often brings a sense of loneliness because it's not just about having people around you; it's about feeling deeply connected to them. Many successful individuals realize that networking is not a replacement for genuine friendships, as they often lack meaningful connections despite having numerous acquaintances. To combat loneliness, it's essential to invest consistently in relationships, as meaningful connections require intentional effort over time. The Harvard Study of Adult Development highlights that strong relationships are crucial for happiness and well-being, overshadowing mere accomplishments or financial success. Building a life that feels connected and meaningful involves planning for relationships just as you would for your career or finances. Recognizing the hidden relationship costs of achievement can help us prioritize the connections that truly matter in our lives. BIGG Chapters [00:13] The Loneliness of Success [00:56] The Hidden Costs of Success and Loneliness [02:28] The Hidden Costs of Achievement [04:50] The Importance of Intentional Relationships [05:46] Creating Connections: The Importance of Relationships [07:31] The Importance of Relationships in Success Links referenced in this episode: Life Map Course BIGG success Newsletter Harvard Study of Adult Development

June 12, 20269 min

Micro-Retirements: Don't Spend Your Life Preparing to Live

Micro retirements are the focus of our conversation today, challenging the traditional work-now-live-later mindset that many of us have followed for decades. We dive into why it’s crucial not to postpone living and how taking intentional breaks can lead to a more fulfilling life. With stories about our youthful dreams—like being a Disney tour guide or the “check guy” for rock stars—we illustrate how exploring what truly matters now can enhance your journey. We’ll explore how micro retirements can be tailored to fit your life, emphasizing that it’s not about running away from responsibilities, but rather about moving toward what excites you. Join us as we unpack the hidden costs of delaying your dreams and provide actionable steps to start living more fully today. BIGG Takeaways: Micro retirements are designed to help you intentionally focus on meaningful experiences instead of waiting for traditional retirement. The concept of micro retirement challenges the outdated work now, live later mindset by promoting life experiences now. Don't let life drift you away; instead, design your life intentionally to achieve big success. Asking yourself what you're postponing can help you identify what truly matters to you right now. Micro retirements offer deeper renewal and growth, which can be more fulfilling than regular vacations. Creating a life map helps ensure you don't drift through life but instead land where you want to be. BIGG Chapters: [00:00] Embracing Micro Retirements [01:10] Understanding Micro Retirement [04:47] The Hidden Cost of Delayed Living [05:47] The Concept of Micro Retirements and Intentional Living [09:15] Exploring the Side Effects of Success Links referenced in this episode: LifeMapCourse.com 5 Ways to Find Fulfillment and Achieve Success BIGGsuccess.com/Join

June 2, 202611 min

How to Know Which Opportunities to Say No To

Have you ever said "yes" to a great opportunity… only to realize later that it pulled you away from what mattered most? The more successful you become, the more opportunities show up. But not every opportunity deserves your time, energy, or attention. In episode #1202, George and Mary-Lynn explore why ambitious people often struggle most with saying no. George shares a personal story about overextending himself early in his entrepreneurial journey and the costly lesson he learned about chasing too many opportunities at once. We introduce a simple three-part Opportunity Filter Framework designed to help you evaluate new opportunities before committing your time, energy, and attention. You'll learn how to align opportunities with your long-term vision, protect your current priorities, and count the real cost of every "yes." BIGG Takeaways: Saying no can be challenging, but it's crucial for maintaining focus on what truly matters. Every opportunity you say yes to comes with a hidden cost that could derail your goals. A clear vision helps filter opportunities, ensuring they align with your long-term aspirations. Prioritizing your current goals is essential; even good opportunities can be bad timing at times. To decide what deserves your yes, use the three-part Opportunity Filter Framework effectively. Clarity and focus are key; they protect your future and help build momentum towards success. BIGG Chapters: [00:15] Starting a New Venture in Real Estate [01:30] The Dangers of Overextension [03:03] Navigating Opportunities: The Challenge of Choice [05:48] The Opportunity Filter Framework [08:37] Saying No to Opportunities [11:10] Challenging the Traditional Work-Life Model Links referenced in this episode: Join our newsletter BIGG Success Life Map Course

May 19, 202610 min

The Biggest Lie We Tell Graduates

Graduation can feel exciting, hopeful, and full of possibility. But it often comes with pressure too. In Episode #1201, The Biggest Lie We Tell Graduates, George and Mary-Lynn explore one of the most damaging messages many people believe: that you should already have everything figured out by now. The truth? Meaningful success rarely works that way. In this episode, we'll unpack why many people stay stuck waiting for certainty, and how putting direction over perfection creates forward momentum. We also introduce the Direction Over Decision framework to help BIGG Goal-Getters move from paralysis into progress. BIGG Takeaways: Graduation ceremonies create a magical moment, but they often bring overwhelming pressure afterwards. Every transition can feel like graduation, where uncertainty meets societal expectations for certainty. The biggest cultural lie is that you should have your life figured out by now, which is damaging. Instead of seeking a perfect decision, focus on the direction you're willing to explore next. Many successful people didn't have a perfect plan; they took steps before feeling ready. Life is not a straight line, and most decisions are not permanent; they are directional choices. BIGG Chapters [00:14] Graduation Ceremonies and Their Significance [01:24] The Reality of Life After Graduation [03:38] The Paradox of Choice and Its Impact on Graduates [05:28] Choosing a Direction Over Making Decisions [07:05] Navigating Uncertainty in Career Choices [09:00] Taking Meaningful Steps Towards Success Links referenced in this episode: BIGGsuccess.com Life Map OODA Loops Join our newsletter

May 5, 20269 min

5 Ways to Achieve Success and Fulfillment

Ever hit a big goal and wonder why it didn’t feel as good as you expected? In episode #1200, “Why Success Feels Empty,” we unpack the surprising gap between achievement and fulfillment. We explore five real reasons success can leave you feeling flat, and the trap of chasing bigger goals to fix the feeling. Along with that five practical strategies to help you feel fulfilled again. Thanks for listening! Here’s to your BIGG Success, George & Mary-Lynn BIGG Takeaways: Success and fulfillment are not the same; achieving a goal doesn't guarantee lasting happiness. The Arrival Fallacy is the belief that reaching a goal will bring lasting joy, but fulfillment comes from a way of living. Five reasons you might feel empty after achieving a goal include losing your sense of purpose and achieving goals that aren't truly yours. To feel fulfilled again, redefine success beyond just goals; consider personal growth and relationships as part of your journey. Fall in love with the process of achieving goals rather than fixating solely on the end result for greater joy. Creating a life map can help connect your values and goals, making each achievement more meaningful and aligned with your true self. BIGG Chapters: 00:16 - Achieving Success: Setting and Reaching Your Goals 01:08 - The Illusion of Success and Fulfillment 01:57 - Understanding the Arrival Fallacy 05:21 - Redefining Success and Finding Fulfillment 07:01 - Building a Life Map for Fulfillment 08:43 - Aligning Your Goals for Success Links referenced in this episode: Life Map Course BIGG Success Arrival Fallacy reference

April 21, 202612 min

Clear Your Mind: 5 Steps to Cut Mental Clutter

Mental clutter is weighing you down, and in episode #1199, George and Mary-Lynn break down why it's one of the biggest hidden barriers to success, and how to eliminate it. From constant information overload to unfinished tasks and emotional strain, they reveal the five key sources of clutter that drain your focus and stall your progress. More importantly, they share simple, practical ways to clear each one so you can think with clarity and act with purpose. Thanks for listening! Here’s to your BIGG Success, George & Mary-Lynn BIGG Takeaways: Mental clutter is the enemy of productivity, making everything feel harder and overwhelming. To overcome decision paralysis, prioritize your top three goals and set aside others for later. Your environment shapes your thinking, so start decluttering your workspace for increased focus. Emotional clutter, like fear of failure and self-doubt, can drain your mental energy significantly. BIGG Chapters: 00:04 - Cutting Mental Clutter 02:44 - Understanding Mental Clutter 04:17 - Sources of Mental Clutter 07:56 - The Impact of Clutter on Mental Clarity 11:32 - The Journey to Clarity and Focus Links referenced in this episode: Ben Franklin's 13 Virtues Episode 1195 - How Fear of Failure Holds You Back Episode 1196 - 5 Steps to Overcome the Fear of Success Life Map Course Join our newsletter Follow our podcast

March 24, 202612 min

Why Smart People Overthink Decisions

Smart people often find themselves trapped in a cycle of overthinking decisions, and in episode #1198, we dive into why this happens and how to break free. Overthinking can feel productive, but it rarely leads to results, as we all know too well. We explore two types of overthinking: rumination, which keeps us stuck in the past, and worry, which drags us into an uncertain future. It's a double whammy that generates more doubt instead of clarity, leaving us frozen when it comes time to make a choice. But don't worry! We share seven practical strategies to help you stop overthinking and start making decisions with confidence and direction. BIGG Takeaways: Overthinking can trap smart people in decision-making paralysis, making it crucial to learn when to act. Successful individuals don't just think more; they develop the ability to act decisively when needed. Understanding the two types of overthinking, rumination and worry, can help you break free from negative thought loops. Setting clear goals and priorities simplifies decision-making and reduces the mental burden of overthinking. Using strategies like the 40-70 rule can help you make timely decisions without getting bogged down in excessive analysis. Creating a Life Map clarifies your priorities, making it easier to decide which actions move you forward. BIGG Chapters [00:18] The Challenge of Decision Making [01:47] Understanding Overthinking [05:48] Strategies to Stop Overthinking [11:17] Transitioning from Overthinking to Action Links referenced in this episode: Life Map Course Join our newsletter Follow our podcast