In Search Of Excellence
We all have dreams of being successful and achieving excellence in our lives. But we inevitably experience resistance, challenges, and obstacles in the pursuit of our dreams. In Search of Excellence provides us with the inspiration we need to overcome these obstacles and accomplish our goals. In Search of Excellence takes us through the stories, routes, and strategies of people from hundreds of different backgrounds who have achieved excellence in both their professional and personal lives. Guest features include Sharon Stone, Kevin O'Leary, Sammy Hagar, Lara Logan, Sam Zell, and many more.
In Search Of Excellence
Lewis Howes: The Trauma That Fueled My Success, And How I Finally Healed | E183
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Lewis Howes, host of The School of Greatness, joins Randall Kaplan for a
raw, high-performance conversation on healing, vulnerability, resilience,
and the hidden costs of “prove them wrong” motivation. In Part 1, Lewis
opens up about childhood trauma, the shame that shaped his drive, and
the emotional work that helped him build inner freedom—not just external
success.
What you’ll learn in this episode
In this deeply personal interview, Randall and Lewis explore:
Lewis’s upbringing in Delaware, Ohio and how adversity became fuel
(and later, a limitation)
The long shadow of childhood sexual abuse, why many people never
tell anyone, and what healing can look like
The moment Lewis finally shared his story in a group emotional
healing environment—and how it unlocked healing for other men, too
Randall’s parallel experience (Hoffman-style work), and why self-
forgiveness changes everything
Bullying, being picked last, learning struggles, and the “I’ll prove you
wrong” drive that often powers high achievers
The shift from ego-driven success to service-driven success (and why
it’s more sustainable)
College, student debt, and the real-world value of education—plus a
memorable compounding story
Timestamps (Key Moments)
Guest Bio: Lewis Howes
Lewis Howes is a lifestyle entrepreneur, high-performance business coach,
keynote speaker, and 3x New York Times bestselling author. He’s the host
of The School of Greatness, one of the world’s most listened-to interview
shows, and a former professional athlete. Lewis’s mission is to help people
live with purpose, overcome self-doubt, and unlock their version of
greatness. (Apple Podcasts)
Links (Guest + Resources)
Lewis Howes (Official Site): https://lewishowes.com/ (Lewis Howes)
The School of Greatness Podcast: https://lewishowes.com/sogpodcast/
(Lewis Howes)
Lewis on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/lewishowes (YouTube)
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lewishowes/ (Instagram)
X (Twitter): https://x.com/LewisHowes (X (formerly Twitter))
Books:
The Greatness Mindset — https://www.amazon.com/Greatness-
Mindset-Unlock-Power-Today/dp/1401971903 (Amazon)
The Mask of Masculinity — https://www.maskofmasculinity.com/
(maskofmasculinity.com)
If this episode resonates, hit Like, Subscribe for more conversations on
entrepreneurship, leadership, and personal excellence—and comment
below:
What’s one belief you’re ready to release so you can live with more
freedom?
Want to Work One-on-One with Me?
I coach a small group of high achievers on how to elevate their careers,
grow their businesses, and reach their full potential both professionally and
personally.
If you are ready to change your life and achieve your goals, apply here:
https://www.randallkaplan.com/coaching
Listen to my Extreme Preparation TEDx Talk here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MIvlFpoLfgs
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