Episode 97

Finding Your True Purpose with Max Stephens

Changing your mindset can be difficult, especially when you’ve been programmed for certain things since childhood, but anyone can make the shift with the right tools. On today’s episode of the Performance Mindset podcast, Amy sits down with Max Stephens, author of “What the F**k Do You Really Want? The Non-Nonsense Guide to Finding a Life with Purpose.” Max is a personal development strategist dedicated to helping ambitious individuals make their mark in the world. His work is grounded in extensive research, formal consciousness training, and an integral understanding of human behavior.

In this episode, you’ll hear:

  1. Max Stephens’s interest in psychology and human behavior, which led to writing his book, “What the F**k Do You Really Want? The No-Nonsense Guide to Finding a Life with Purpose.”
  2. His tips for finding time to meditate and what happens when you do it.
  3. What psychological re-engineering is and its benefits.
  4. Cultural expectations and how they impact our lives.
  5. Max’s realizations about athletes and entrepreneurs, and why their goals are often never enough for a meaningful life.
  6. One of the most counterintuitive shifts someone can make to change their mindset for the better.
  7. The current mental health crisis and why some of it stems from cultures that go against our biological wiring.
  8. The importance of designing a life that works for you.
  9. Defining success as a byproduct of your goal.
  10. Why dynamic often dictates behavior.

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Amy Calandrino

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About the Podcast

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The Performance Mindset Show
Insights for high performers in business, leadership, and real estate.

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About your host

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Amy Calandrino

Amy Calandrino, SIOR, CCIM, is a Director at Cushman & Wakefield with deep experience representing small and mid-sized businesses, family enterprises, and private investors throughout Central Florida and beyond. She is known for being a thoughtful listener, a creative problem-solver, and a strategic advisor who helps clients make informed decisions that support both their business goals and long-term wealth creation.

With a career rooted in guiding entrepreneurs and families through pivotal real estate moments, Amy brings clarity, structure, and actionable strategy to every assignment. She has completed hundreds of transactions across office, flex, and retail properties, and clients rely on her strong command of market trends, valuations, and space needs particularly within Winter Park and Greater Orlando. Her experience is backed by the SIOR and CCIM designations, reflecting her commitment to expertise and excellence in the industry.

In addition to her advisory work, Amy is the author of From Perfect to Real: Ditch Perfection, Shift Your Mindset, and Thrive on Your Terms, where she shares her SPORT Success System® for high performance. She is also the host of The Performance Mindset Show, a podcast featuring candid conversations with leaders in business, real estate, and entrepreneurship.

Committed to strengthening her community, Amy co-founded the Calandrino Foundation with her husband, Phil, to equip youth with the skills and mindset needed for entrepreneurship and financial empowerment. She also serves on the Park Avenue District Board in Winter Park.

Amy lives in Central Florida with her family. Outside of work, she enjoys golf, running, and staying active with her two children. Her faith, family, and dedication to helping others grow continue to guide her both personally and professionally.