How Small Choices Create EPIC Lives: Lessons from Zander Sprague

How Small Choices Create EPIC Lives: Lessons from Zander Sprague

In a world where we often chase big wins and overnight success, Zander Sprague reminds us of something far more powerful: EPIC begins with just one step forward.

In a recent episode of Mirror Talk: Soulful Conversations, Zander—an acclaimed author, licensed professional clinical counselor, and motivational speaker—sat down with host Tobi Ojekunle to unpack his life philosophy, the healing journey after sibling loss, and how enthusiasm can literally shift the trajectory of our lives.

Let’s dive into some of the most transformative moments and ideas from this unforgettable conversation.

🌱 The Power of One Small Step

Zander’s bestselling book EPIC Begins With 1 Step Forward is rooted in the idea that monumental change doesn’t require monumental effort—it starts with intention. That single, courageous action can set a new course, disrupt negative patterns, and ignite long-term momentum.

“Every epic journey starts the same way—with just one step,” he says.

Whether you’re recovering from loss or trying to launch a dream, Zander’s message is clear: start small, but start now.

The Two Magic Words

What are the two magic words that can transform your mindset and performance?

“I believe.”

Zander emphasises that self-belief is the foundation for resilience, creativity, and joy. Belief fuels your capacity to try again, to face failure without fear, and to keep going when results aren’t immediate.

🧠 The 97/3 Rule

Zander introduces a surprisingly simple but effective mindset hack—the 97/3 rule:

Focus 97% on the good, and only 3% on the bad.

It’s not about ignoring hardship—it’s about not letting it dominate your perspective. In a world overwhelmed by negativity, choosing what you magnify matters.

💼 Staying EPIC at Work (Even Remotely)

With more people working from home, staying engaged and enthusiastic is a challenge. Zander encourages listeners to build structure, connect intentionally, and find purpose even in small tasks.

When your actions align with your EPIC goals, your work becomes a reflection of who you are, not just what you do.

🌈 Turning Grief into Light

Zander’s book Making Lemonade was born out of personal tragedy—losing his sister. Rather than being consumed by grief, he chose to make meaning out of loss. He now helps others navigating grief to do the same.

“You don’t move on. You move forward—with them in your heart.”

🔥 Final Takeaway: The EPIC Message

Zander’s final words in the episode sum up everything he stands for:

“Choose to be EPIC. One step, one choice at a time. You have the power to create the life you want.”

Illuminating Your Path: A Journey of Transformation with Olu Adetutu Mirror Talk: Soulful Conversations

In this illuminating episode of Mirror Talk: Soulful Conversations, we welcome Olu Adetutu — a radiant force in the world of transformation, cultural intelligence, and soulful leadership. As the founder and CEO of Olumination Enterprises LLC, Olu has empowered high-achieving individuals across the globe to rise above adversity and live with clarity, faith, and freedom.From surviving a near-death experience to leading international workshops in Canada, Nigeria, Morocco, Ghana, and beyond, Olu brings deep wisdom rooted in her faith and cultural heritage. In this heart-opening conversation, she shares how illumination is not just a metaphor — it’s a soul mission.We explore the sacred connection between faith, healing, leadership, and the hidden struggles behind success. Olu also dives into how cultural intelligence can both guide and challenge us, and how freedom, authenticity, and boldness shape her life’s work.Let Olu’s story inspire you to rise, reflect, and rediscover your light.💡 Topics We Covered:The near-death experience that sparked her spiritual awakeningWhat illumination means on a soul levelHow faith shaped her healing, leadership, and courageThe invisible struggles of high achieversReclaiming freedom as a woman of colour in leadershipThe dance between cultural roots and personal growthBold moves, rising from adversity, and finding strength in uncertaintyThe power of authenticity and divine purpose🗝️ Powerful Quotes:“You are your own answer.”“You can’t do life alone.”“Face and resolve your challenges.”⏱️ Episode Chapters:00:00 – Introduction to Transformation and Cultural Intelligence06:33 – The Impact of a Near-Death Experience13:50 – Illumination: Finding Your Light27:36 – Cultural Influences on Leadership and Purpose29:41 – The Role of Faith in Decision Making31:15 – Challenging Beliefs and Personal Growth37:16 – Rising from Adversity45:34 – The Importance of Community and Support48:23 – Navigating Grief and Loss53:50 – Finding Light in Darkness🔗 Connect with Olu Adetutu:🌐 Website: oluadetutu.com📱 Instagram: @olu_adetutu📘 Facebook: Olu Adetutu💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/oluadetutuThank you, Olu, for reminding us that when we own our story and rise with intention, we become unstoppable. Your authenticity and light are a true gift.Until next time — keep reflecting, keep rising, and keep walking in your divine purpose.🎧 Listen now wherever you get your podcasts.CONFESSIONS is now available: https://mirrortalkpodcast.com/confessions-book/ Thank you for joining me on this MIRROR TALK podcast journey. Please subscribe on any platform and remember to leave a review and rating.Stay connected: https://linktr.ee/mirrortalkpodcast More inspiring episodes and show notes are here: https://mirrortalkpodcast.com/podcast-episodes/ Your opinions, thoughts, suggestions, and comments are important to us. Share them here: https://mirrortalkpodcast.com/your-opinion-matters/ Support us by becoming a Patron. Please consider subscribing to one or more of our offerings at http://patreon.com/MirrorTalk All proceeds will help improve the quality of our work and outreach, so we can serve you better.These are some of the podcasting tools, software, and gear we use and trust — and we’ve partnered with amazing platforms to give our Mirror Talk community exclusive deals and discounts: https://mirrortalkpodcast.com/mirror-talks-recommended-podcasting-tools-exclusive-discounts/ 
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🎧 Listen to the Full Episode

Don’t miss the full conversation on Mirror Talk: Soulful Conversations. It’s packed with tools, wisdom, and inspiration to help you live with more purpose, power, and positivity.

🎙️ → Listen to the full episode: 🔗Apple Podcasts | 🔗Spotify | 🔗Other Platforms

🙋‍♂️ About Zander Sprague

Zander Sprague, LPCC, is an award-winning author, licensed counsellor, and international speaker. With over two decades of experience in personal growth, Zander helps people navigate grief, find purpose, and embrace their epic potential.

Website: https://epicbegins.com

CONFESSIONS is now available: https://mirrortalkpodcast.com/confessions-book/

Thank you for joining me on this MIRROR TALK podcast journey. Kindly subscribe to any platform. Please do not forget to leave a review and rating.

Let us stay connected: https://linktr.ee/mirrortalkpodcast

More inspiring episodes and show notes are here: https://mirrortalkpodcast.com/podcast-episodes/⁠

Your opinions, thoughts, suggestions and comments matter to us. Share them here: https://mirrortalkpodcast.com/your-opinion-matters/

Invest in us by becoming a Patreon. Please support us by subscribing to one or more of the offerings that we have available at http://patreon.com/MirrorTalk

All proceeds will improve the quality of our work and outreach. To serve you better. 

Try out ElevenLabs for free: https://try.elevenlabs.io/8oveg6dyus8a 

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