In this 36th episode of The PhD Journey Unplugged, Dr. Sarah Gordon invites Andrew Schubauer on to the show to talk about how to take a kinder path towards self-fulfillment. As the founder of Mountain Wisdom, LLC, Andrew provides "one-on-one" coaching within a framework of neuro-linguistic and emotional intelligence coaching. Andrew's work as a self-efficacy coach is shaped by over 10,000 miles of wilderness hiking, naval military training & service, personal achievements as an ultra endurance athlete, and years of serving on search-and-rescue teams for both people and pets. Andrew holds a Level II Search and Rescue Technician (SARTech II) certification with the National Association of Search and Rescue (NASAR) and is a certified Wilderness First Responder. Andrew is also a Certified Personal Trainer and Nutrition Coach with the National Academy of Sports Medicine. Drawing from a lifetime of fitness, adventure, survival, and reflection, Andrew brings a grounded perspective on purpose, resilience, and intentional living.Guided by Mountain Wisdom’s (LLC) core philosophy — “Effort for a Purpose” and “It starts with you, your path, your life, your choice” — this conversation explores how modern self-improvement culture can quietly undermine mental health and sustainable growth. Together, Sarah and Andrew examine several common “toxic myths” in personal development, including hustle culture, constant positivity, comparison through time scarcity, and the belief that growth should always feel easy or aligned.Each myth is unpacked through a compassionate, research-informed, and philosophical lens, highlighting how glorifying exhaustion, ignoring individuality, avoiding discomfort, and cutting off relationships too quickly can lead to burnout, disconnection, and emotional suppression. Drawing on insights from Stoicism, Aristotle, Eastern philosophy, and lived experience, this episode reframes growth as nonlinear, human, and deeply personal.Rather than rejecting ambition or purpose, this conversation invites listeners to consider a kinder path to self-fulfillment — one rooted in discernment, balance, self-regulation, and compassion. At its core, this episode asks a timeless philosophical question: How should we live? And perhaps more importantly, who do we want to become in the process?This is a thoughtful and grounding discussion for anyone navigating high achievement, personal growth, or the quiet exhaustion that can come from trying to “do it all.”Disclaimer: All information in this podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be deemed as professional advice.