Growth Now Movement with Justin Schenck
Description
What if the thing you've been chasing your entire life is actually the thing keeping you from feeling fulfilled?
In this episode of the Growth Now Movement, I sit down once again with my good friend Nick Santonastasso. It's been almost five years since his first appearance on the show, and I can honestly say this is one of the most meaningful conversations we've ever had.
Most people know Nick because of his incredible story. Born with Hanhart syndrome, he has inspired millions by refusing to let his physical circumstances define his life. But what really stood out to me in this conversation wasn't his resilience—it was his honesty.
Nick shares how, despite achieving incredible success as a global speaker and entrepreneur, he realized he had been chasing a version of himself that didn't actually exist. Like so many high achievers, he believed the next accomplishment, the next stage, or the next milestone would finally make him feel enough.
It never did.
Instead, Nick discovered that fulfillment isn't something you achieve. It's something you create from within.
We talk about how many entrepreneurs unknowingly build their identity around external validation, why people-pleasing often starts in childhood, and how even a successful personal brand can become a prison if you feel like you always have to be "on."
One of my favorite concepts Nick shares is the difference between living as a judge versus living as a scientist. Instead of beating yourself up every time something doesn't go your way, approach your life with curiosity. Ask better questions. Look for patterns. Learn instead of labeling yourself.
We even walk through a live coaching exercise where Nick helps uncover how childhood experiences can create resistance in business today. It's one of those moments that I know will stick with listeners long after the episode ends.
We also talk about the business side of things, including how COVID forced Nick to completely reinvent his business, learn sales, create offers, and develop Stage Secrets—a framework that teaches speakers how to confidently sell from stage without feeling manipulative.
This conversation is ultimately about redefining success.
It's about letting go of the fictional future version of yourself and realizing that the person you're becoming starts with who you choose to be today.
In This Episode, We Discuss:-
Why high achievers often feel unfulfilled despite their success
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The danger of chasing a future version of yourself
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How childhood experiences shape confidence and identity
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Escaping people-pleasing and the need for validation
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Why authenticity creates stronger leadership than perfection
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The powerful "Judge vs. Scientist" mindset
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How emotional healing impacts business growth
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Nick's approach to selling from stage with integrity
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The lessons COVID taught him about entrepreneurship
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How to define what "enough" looks like before you achieve it
This episode is a reminder that growth isn't just about building a bigger business or accomplishing bigger goals.
Sometimes the greatest transformation happens when you stop trying to become someone else—and finally give yourself permission to become fully yourself.