The ZenFounder podcast is a combination of interviews with successful entrepreneurs, conversations with experts, and honest reflections on entrepreneur life, focused on helping entrepreneurs practice better mental health. Forbes called it one of the 12 best podcasts for entrepreneurs.
Host, Dr. Sherry Walling, is a clinical psychologist, coach for entrepreneurs and startups, and best-selling author. She is an expert in trauma, stress and burnout, and her research has been published in academic journals such as the Journal of Traumatic Stress. She has also endured being married to a serial entrepreneur for 23 years.
141 Subscribers
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© 2021 ZenFounder
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141 Subscribers
Reviews
Fgzbmz
5 out of 5 stars
Valuable and Entertaining
Great podcast on important and often overlooked topics for entrepreneurs. Helped me to connect with my craft from a different angle.
Arlie K
5 out of 5 stars
A breath of fresh air!
If you’re currently a founder or entrepreneur (or want to be one in the future), this podcast should be part of your weekly content diet. Sherry is fantastic - warm, knowledgeable, and engaging - and every episode is full of actionable takeaways that you can leverage to level up. A must listen!
EricaLynChaney
5 out of 5 stars
Thank you
Disclaimer... I just barely tipped the tip of my tiniest toe into the waters of entrepreneurship so that’s not what originally drew me to this podcast. Rather, I got to know Sherry during yoga training several years ago and was immediately drawn to her as a pure and authentic human being. Might have even been quite shy around her because I looked up to her so much. Anyway, today I found myself very, very anxious and instead of wallowing in fetal position I played the first podcast that came up on my phone, laced up my sneakers and went for a walk. The podcast was on meditation so I did it walking. I can now breathe fully again because of it. When I got home, at least 10 lbs of anxiety lighter, I listened to the recent podcast in which Sherry gives examples of her own white privilege. I found comfort and calm in her story and voice. This podcast is a beautiful gift. In short, I’m grateful.
tiramisudessert
5 out of 5 stars
Guided Meditation -
Love how you focussed on the exhale in the guided meditation. Belly breathing was so nice - I got it reversed in the beginning. Meditation is such an important part of entrepreneurship to keep yourself sane :)
JoshCrist
5 out of 5 stars
Honest and inspiring 🙌
This is one of the only podcasts I know of that actually dives into the energetics, interpersonal dynamics and pyschological sparring that naturally occurs when building a business. The work of being an entrepreneur doesn't just impact the person leading/growing/starting the business, and listening to Sherry and Rob talk candidly with their guests (and each other) about the subtle forces that truly make or break success, as a human being first, is refreshing - and inspiring!!
JenAD345
5 out of 5 stars
Refreshingly honest conversations about the 'Founder Life'
Truly appreciate this podcast for all the real conversations Sherry and Rob have with each other and their guests. And even more so because they cover topics typically skipped over or avoided alltogether in startup/founder discussions (ex. the impact of entrepreneurship on families, maintaining a sex life, and mental health and suicide).
Phil Derksen
5 out of 5 stars
Extremely helpful...
Being a successful founder isn't all about the best marketing & product strategies. There is so much to keep in check outside our businesses that have to do with healthy relationships and a proper mental state. This podcast has both useful founder husband/wife discussions (hosts Rob & Sherry) as well as some great founder interviews. If you run any type of business, this is much too important to ignore. Don't miss Sherry's book "The Entrepreneur’s Guide to Keeping Your Sh*t Together" either.
Matt Pritchett
5 out of 5 stars
An Honest & Helpful Look at marriage, life, and family in the start up world.
I am so thankful to Rob and Sherry for simply being honest about their lives and their struggles on this podcast. Rob's background as a starter (not that Sherry isn't or doesn't also have the knowledge) has been super helpful for me and Sherry's knowledge of Psychology have been huge in my own life and family in terms of learning and growth. Thank you guys so much. Also, keep up the night owl episodes. Loved it. They add a bit more laughter and silliness that is fun occassionally. :)
josheby
5 out of 5 stars
Mixing Being a Founder with Real Life
Sherry and Rob to a great job talking about founders and how it affects your life and family. Unfortunatly being a founder is not always roses. Their mix of experiences and professional lives allows them to provide amazing content to help keep founders heading in the right direction and focusing on what matters the most. I have even had to have my wife listen to a few episodes as the topics touched issues we were dealing with. Thank you for the great show and best wishes!
BrieGF
5 out of 5 stars
Great show for Startups!
Thanks for providing a great show for founders!
sporkitover
5 out of 5 stars
Founder Origin Stories are Awesome
It's amazing to hear the stories and backgrounds of these heroes of industries and how a lot of them have channeled very difficult backgrounds into fuel for success.
ErikBison
5 out of 5 stars
One of a kind, highly recommend!
Zen Founder shares actionable insights and lessons all entrepreneurs could benefit from - the mental and emotional side of startups. Highly recommend listening and subscribing if you want the knowledge AND mindsets to stay sane while starting and growing your company! Sherry and Rob knock this show out of the park.
nniroclax
5 out of 5 stars
It will add a little more zen to your crazy life
Being a startup founder is a tough gig. Zen founder provides relateable advice that speaks to the heart and soul of issues faced by individuals working on really tough problems and going through unique struggles. I love this podcast and would highly recommend it to anyone starting or working in a business.
RGsavvy
5 out of 5 stars
Beyond Binge Worthy
After meeting Rob and Sherry in person I was eager to listen to the podcast. When free time finally arrived, I listened to my first episode. Then I listened to another episode and another episode after that. As an accidental entrepreneur this podcast really speaks to both the emotional and professional sides of me. It beautifully blends psychology and mental health with marketing, software development, and business.
ebmercer
5 out of 5 stars
My Weekly Zen
Wow this is a life saving podcast. Being a founder-wife myself this podcast let me know I am not alone. Sherry and Rob are a perfect balance of entrepreneur and real life people. My husband loves Startups For The Rest Of Us and told me about Zen Founder a few months back. Ever since I listened to their balance and the topics they talk about on the show I was hooked. Sherry is a breath of fresh air. I love the zen delivered to my headphones from this duo each week. Great job guys!
luisperezphd
5 out of 5 stars
A great podcast I never expected
I definately lean towards tactical rather than mindset, I'm glad I put that aside to give this podcast a shot. There have been several episodes that were exactly what I needed to listen to. The format the whole podcast is earnest and high quality. I would recommend it to anyone who is even thinking about starting a business or even in the midst of large transitions in their life.
aarondolson
5 out of 5 stars
Teamwork
Great to hear how these two navigate their careers & family life in such a function way. Was very interesting listening to all of the changes going on and the various ways they adjust. Found this after listening to Startups for the Rest of us and searching for other podcasts w/Rob - it's gold & I'm glad they found their way to MN - great place to raise a family & continue their careers.
Samori Augusto
5 out of 5 stars
It’s like cheating
Sometimes, it gets really frustrating to explain why you’re doing certain things. Sometimes, you want to convey certain ideas to your children, but they don’t necessarily want to listen to you. Sometimes you just want to spin things and have people “spontaneously” think of other ways to do things. Don’t bother with all that. Trap them all in the car, turn on Zen Founder, and don’t say a word. Let it wash in. Then field the questions, but use like a superior I told you so tone. Also helps explain why you have the urge to go to LVS again next year.
Lentil's Mom
5 out of 5 stars
Harmonizing Tech and Psychology
Don't think that the advice here applies just to being a founder. I love the in depth discussions about how to balance technical, business with the mental and psychological side of oneself.
jscott79
5 out of 5 stars
Really enjoy this show!
Rob and Sherry are great podcasters and have produced a super informative and educational show. I love the diversity of topics and entertainment value as well! Jay Scott
slav.isv
5 out of 5 stars
Insights into entrepreneur life
Being entrepreneur isn't only about building business, it's about building a lifestyle which includes everything, business, family, leisure time, personal time. Rob and Sherry provide a truly unique perspective and advise on how to build such life. If you have your own business or just thinking about starting one this podcast must be on your listen to list or you will miss things you would've never thought of and yet essential to your success both in short term and long term.
mvanderpol
5 out of 5 stars
Fantastic podcast, especially if you have a family
Rob and Sherry’s Zen Founder podcast has quickly become one of my favorites and I look forward to each new episode. I’m not a founder, but I’m the wife of an aspiring founder, and I really appreciate Rob and Sherry’s perspective into this life that we’re trying to head toward. I feel like it gives me a glimpse into what might lie ahead, why my husband is so interested in this whole boot-strap start-up world, as well as a sense that I’m not alone in this sometimes crazy and difficult life of the (trying to be) supportive spouse. I also really appreciate what Rob and Sherry have to say about living this sort of lifestyle in the family, and trying to figure out ways to encourage our kids to have a growth mindset and to encourage what I think is a child’s natural interest in micropreneurism. Speaking of which, how about having as a guest someone who has older kids who have started their own ventures? If you are a founder/aspiring founder and have a spouse, I highly recommend encouraging him or her to listen to it - you’ll have some great conversations!
Markj9
5 out of 5 stars
Best podcast on the Internet
I can't really stress enough how great Sherry and Rob are. I've never met them or even talked to them but have to say they're the best people on the Internet today. They provide awesome views on life and have a great way of sharing their lives and wisdom.
Mom2snk
5 out of 5 stars
Keep Up The Important (& Good) Work
I was introduced to this podcast by my husband and am sold on its value and importance in my life. This is the only podcast i listen to religiously and i really enjoy discussing the topics with my spouse on how the topics directly relate to our daily life. I can already identify changes in mindset, routine, and philosophy as a result of listening. The biggest take-away has been Sherry’s concept of “life giving or life taking” as I filter my requests to participate in a variety of activities. Would love to hear a show on money and the marital negotiations that occur when the income is based on a start up that may or may not always be predictable.
Justin McGill
5 out of 5 stars
Something I Listen to with My Wife
It's not always easy bringing your significant other into your entrepreneurial world. What I love about this podcast more than any other is the opportunity to have my wife listen when we drive. It's the perfect bridge between high level entrepreneur thoughts and a supporting wife who "gets it" just enough.
DelawareStartupCoder
5 out of 5 stars
Good stuff!
Good stuff for startup people with families!
Swamplander1
5 out of 5 stars
Refreshing look into what’s behind the life of a founder
I’ll admit I’m a bit of a Rob fanboy & have seen Sherry’s talk at MicroConf US 2014. As a subscriber of quite a few startup podcasts, I find this to be a nice breath of fresh air. My wife and I are listening to it in parallel & talk about the episodes after we listen to them in passing… it’s been a great conversation starter & encouraged us to talk about some subjects we might not have discussed previously. I really like the “behind the scenes” sort of view to the family life and how the balance is struck. Too many startup / founder / entrepreneur podcasts & conference sessions push this “balls to the wall” lifestyle ignoring there are many of us with families that we aren’t willing to sacrifice. Keep it up… love the show and YOUR perspective… curious to see if you do some episodes where you have other couples join in on the discussion down the road!
RyanBattles
5 out of 5 stars
Exactly What the Startup Community Needs
I’ve got to be honest, I subscribe to a good deal of startup podcasts and after a while I sort of get numb to the same messages repeated over and over. This podcast is different. Rob and Sherry take each of their unique gifts as professionals, and combine them with their relationship as a family. to discuss topics that go beyond marketing tactics into managing the stuff that really matters in life. The first few episodes were great, and I look forward to future installments.
Mel C5
5 out of 5 stars
Great podcast!
Love it, excellent episodes! Very helpful and informative podcast. Could listen all day.
Pa001
5 out of 5 stars
so far so good
really enjoyed the first few episodes and have already learned about some new tools (simplenote!)
EnochSears
5 out of 5 stars
Rob and Sherry bring together Jedi-like mind control and ninja startup wisdom
Just finished episode 4 on Face Punching procrastination. I'll revisit this great episode every 6 months or so to make sure I'm on track. Looking forward to more great content. Sherry and Rob bring a whole life approach to making sure the urgent doesn't get in the way of the important, like family. If you are listening, you should be.
MatthewDP
5 out of 5 stars
A Home Run from Rob and Sherry
I've been listening to Startups for the Rest of Us for years. I was thrilled to hear that Rob and his wife Sherry were starting a new podcast. I can tell already that Zen Founder is going to be a long-term must-listen show in my podcast client. I've already personally benefited from the retreats episode and can't wait to see what else they cover.
Podcast information
- Amount of episodes
- 200
- Subscribers
- 141
- Verified
- No
- Website
- Explicit content
- No
- Episode type
- episodic
- Podcast link
- https://podvine.com/link/..
- Last upload date
- May 26, 2023
- Last fetch date
- June 9, 2023 2:25 AM
- Upload range
- WEEKLY
- Author
- Sherry Walling
- Copyright
- © 2021 ZenFounder
susbcribers
- Episode 347: TransitionsIn today's episode, join Sherry as she delves into the topic of transitions and highlights their significance in our adult lives. She emphasizes the importance of approaching transitions with thoughtfulness, as they impact both our personal well-being and our businesses. Sherry sheds light on the potential risks of neglecting transitions, such as failing to allocate time to honor them, skipping the necessary steps to internalize their effects, and overlooking the exploration of profound questions. She encourages us to prioritize transitions by carving out space for them in our calendars, recognizing their value in fostering growth and fulfillment.0 comments0
- Episode 346: Entrepreneurial Blind SpotsRob Walling hosts the podcast this week, the focus is on entrepreneurial blind spots and the crucial role of self-awareness. The episode highlights the negative consequences of being unaware of one's strengths and weaknesses, and stresses the importance of recognizing when to delegate, seek assistance, or devote extra attention to a task. Listeners will also gain insights into effective strategies for identifying and addressing blind spots in their own entrepreneurial journeys.0 comments0
- ZenFounder Apr 21 · 14m Episode 345: Decision FatigueIn this episode of the podcast, Sherry reflects on the ups and downs of being an entrepreneur after returning from a spring vacation. Balancing a busy calendar and a full inbox has led her to contemplate the factors that affect our presence for those around us. As entrepreneurs, our emotional availability and presence are crucial for our teams, co-founders, and employees. It's about being able to truly listen, read between the lines, exercise patience, and show up authentically. Sherry dives into the topic of decision fatigue and how it can impact our primary relationships in today's episode.0 comments0
- Episode 344: The Founder Mental Health PledgeSherry sits down with Naveed Lalani and Brad Baum, the masterminds behind the Founder Mental Health Pledge. Their initiative encourages both investors and companies to recognize mental health treatment as a legitimate business expense. By prioritizing the mental health of founders and their teams, startups are more likely to succeed. The pledge promises to support founders in treating the costs associated with caring for their mental health, including therapy, coaching, group support, and app-based solutions. Lalani and Baum emphasize that mental health should be a top priority for every business owner. Tune in to learn more about the importance of supporting founder mental health in the startup world. Founder Mental Health Pledge0 comments0
- Episode 343: Better Off Without Me and Other Dangerous LiesIt's not uncommon for adults and adolescents to experience suicidal thoughts and feelings, but unfortunately, many people lack the necessary skills to address these sensitive conversations. Sherry sheds light on the topic of suicide and its impact on family members. She emphasizes the danger of believing the false notion that things would improve if we were no longer around and urges us to be vigilant against such thoughts. Additionally, she offers practical advice on how to seek help and support for ourselves or loved ones who may be struggling with suicidal ideation.0 comments0
- Episode 342: Parenting for Sexual Health with Dr. Lea LisSherry talks with Dr. Lea Lis a medical doctor who is a double board-certified Adult and Child Psychiatrist. Dr. Lea discusses the topic of communicating with our children about sex and overcoming any feelings of shame that may arise as parents when doing so. Dr. Lea also shares tactics to empower our children with the confidence and skills to make decisions and communicate effectively about their boundaries. Dr. Lea Lis1 comments1
- Episode 341: Not What I ExpectedSherry discusses one of the prevalent obstacles of entrepreneurship - unforeseen difficulties. When we undertake challenging endeavors, we do not have control over the type of difficulty we may encounter. Moreover, at times, we may not be able to predict the severity of the challenges we will face. Expected difficulties tend to be less demanding since we can respond to them appropriately. Conversely, unforeseen challenges can be overwhelming, catching us off guard and causing us to question our competence. Sherry also provides useful techniques for managing unexpected challenges.1 comments1
- Episode 340: Characteristics of Healthy Co-FoundersIn this episode Sherry talks about co-founder relationships and some of the strengths she sees in the best relationships that she works with. She provides numerous suggestions on aspects to emulate in your relationships with co-founders, which can also be useful in your intimate partner relationships.0 comments0
- ZenFounder Feb 10 · 28m Episode 339: Expanding Erotic Intelligence with Brooke Bergman ParrIn this week's episode, relationship expert Brooke Bergman Parr dives into the topic of sex in relationships and its significance in couples therapy. It's no secret that sex is often one of the top concerns that couples address when seeking counseling. Despite being a normal part of a healthy relationship, sex can be a source of tension and confusion for many couples. However, with the right guidance and support, it can also be a source of connection and play. Brooke shares with us the importance of addressing sexual concerns in couples therapy and provides practical tips and techniques for couples to improve their sexual relationship. She helps dispel common misconceptions about sexual frequency and provide a framework for what a healthy amount of sex may look like for different couples. Tune in to learn how to turn sex from a source of heartache to a source of connection and play in your relationship.1 comments1
- Episode 338: It Isn’t About YouIn this episode Sherry focuses on the foundation for a healthy co-founder relationship and its impact on overall business relationships and mental health. Research shows that relationship quality is one of the strongest predictors of mental health and therefore, it's impossible to discuss entrepreneur mental health and well-being without touching upon relationships. The podcast delves into the key elements that make up a healthy relationship, the common pitfalls and how to avoid them, and the impact it has on business success and personal well-being. Whether you are starting a business with a partner or dealing with internal relationships within your organization, this podcast offers valuable insights and practical tips to help build strong, healthy relationships.1 comments1
- Episode 337: The Power of PresenceIn this episode Sherry talks about the power of presence. The ability of being fully available to the person you are interacting with. In today's modern society, there are so many distractions vying for our attention, making it difficult to remain present. Sherry discusses some best practices you can implement to become more present in your life and to those around you.0 comments0
- Episode 336: Psychedelics as MedicineSherry talks about the conversation around how psychedelics may play a role in mental health treatment and care. With FDA approval for MDMA therapy as a treatment for PTSD possibly coming as soon as this year, she shares a personal story of what sparked her interest in the movement to integrate psychedelic medicine into mental healthcare. Sherry’s TEDx Talk1 comments1
- Episode 335: The Power of the ResetSometimes external cues (a new calendar year, holidays), can give us the opportunity to remind ourselves to check in and evaluate. In this episode Sherry shares the process of doing a “double check” of self reflection that can help to reshape the direction of our personal and professional lives. Sherry’s TEDx Talk1 comments1
- Episode 334: Home for the Holidays: Practices for Mental HealthBrooke Bergman hosts the podcast this week to talk about families of origin, grief, and how to find hope in what can be a challenging time of year for some people. As we move into the heart of the holiday season, she helps answer the question, what do we do if being home isn’t actually restful? Sherry Walling’s TEDx Talk0 comments0
- ZenFounder Dec 16 · 37m Episode 333: True Consciousness with Gay HendricksIn today’s podcast Sherry talks with psychologist, writer, and teacher in the field of personal growth Gay Hendricks. They talk about how he got his start in psychology in his early days at Standford University, an accidental fall on some ice that changed his proception of self, and his discovery of “pure consciousness”. Hendricks Institute1 comments1
- Episode 332: To Podcast or Not to Podcast with Rob WallingRob Walling joins the podcast this week to help Sherry talk through the question of whether or not to continue this podcast. They discuss the advantages, disadvantages, the podcast’s legacy, and new possible options for the future.1 comments1
- Episode 331: Growth from the Inside Out with Dr. Steve ThayerA fellow psychologist, Dr. Steve Thayer joins the podcast this week. Steve also shares an interest in entrepreneur mental health and the new wave of research around how psychedelic science can help people who suffer from mental illness or want to optimize or improve performance. Dr. Steve Thayer, Ph.D. Psychedelic Therapy Frontiers1 comments1
- Episode 330: Alone Not LonelyEven with the holidays fast approaching, people can still feel alone this time of year. In this episode Sherry shares some reflections about the power of aloness and how to re-frame difficult interactions as an opportunity for sovereign aloness. Touching Two World1 comments1
- Episode 329: Interview with Chad Conley, Green Beret: The Magic of Connection by Sharing our StoriesIn this episode of Zenfounder, Brooke has a conversation with active duty service member Chad Conley, Green Beret. They discuss the ways his military service has supported his relationship skills as well as his work serving others through his non-profit, 50 for the fallen. 50 For The Fallen1 comments1
- ZenFounder Oct 21 · 29m Episode 327: Simply Be With Jessica ZweigSherry talks with author & personal brand expert Jessica Zwieg, about the challenges of putting yourself out there. Jessica shares her wisdom of how a best personal brand comes from a sense of being who we truly are and how to convey that through social media. So whether you’re building a personal brand or just an entrepreneur with some kind of public presence, there are some great tips in this episode for you. Jessica Zweig1 comments1
- Episode 326: An Entrepreneur Mom's Dilemma- To College or Not to CollegeIn today’s episode Sherry talks about the college decision. As an entrepreneur herself people often ask her if college is really worth it for their kids. Is the time better spent developing an actually business? Sherry offers some advice on these tough decisions.0 comments0
- Episode 325: The Importance of Play in Love with Brooke Bergman ParrBrooke Bergman Parr hosts the podcast this week to talk about how we can improve our relationships without using words. She discusses body language, the power of energy, the power of thoughts, and the power of play, all ways of learning to speak with our bodies.0 comments0
- Episode 324: Hypnotherapy for Founders with Elliot RoeSherry interviews hypnotherapist Elliot Roe about the use of hypnosis to help entrepreneurs and other high performers accomplish their goals. Elliot has done a deep dive into hypnosis and how to use it to support people in their performance and overall mental health and well being. In this conversation they unpack how it works and the scientific underpinning that can make hypnotherapy successful for some people. Elliot Roe Touching Two Worlds0 comments0
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© 2021 ZenFounder
