April 2, 2025

From "A**hole" to Awesome: A Journey of Transformation with Ernest Wood

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Welcome back to When Not Yet Becomes Right Now, the podcast where we delve deep into those pivotal moments when life shifts, and transformation begins. I'm your host, Jen Ginty, and I'm thrilled to bring you another inspiring conversation, this time with Ernest Wood, a Navy veteran and the insightful author of 'Asshole to Awesome'.
In this powerful episode, Ernest takes us on his personal journey of self-discovery, exploring the profound impact of family dynamics on our lives and underscoring the critical importance of forgiveness in our healing processes. We delve into the moments that serve as catalysts for change, those times when the 'not yet' dissolves and the 'right now' demands our attention.
Key Takeaways from our Conversation:
Ernest's journey began with a powerful desire for self-improvement, a recognition that change was necessary.
He shared how family dynamics can significantly shape our personal growth, both in positive and challenging ways.
Forgiveness emerged as a crucial element in Ernest's path towards healing and moving forward from past hurts.
We discussed how the 'not yet' moment often requires a significant event or realization to propel us into taking action.
Ernest reflected on his time in the Navy, highlighting the invaluable lessons in discipline and respect that shaped his character.
In a relatable moment, Ernest shared how road rage incidents served as profound wake-up calls, prompting deeper self-reflection.
The process of writing his book, 'Asshole to Awesome', became a transformative experience in itself, solidifying his insights and driving further growth.
Ernest emphasized that empathy is essential for truly understanding others and building meaningful connections.
He believes that personal growth is an ongoing process, involving learning from our mistakes and embracing our imperfections.
Dive Deeper into the Episode Highlights:
[03:58] The Impact of Childhood and Family Dynamics: Ernest opens up about how his early experiences and family relationships influenced his journey.
[06:43] The Turning Point: Embracing Change and Self-Discovery: We explore the pivotal moment when Ernest decided to actively pursue self-improvement.
[12:45] Lessons from the Navy: Discipline and Respect: Ernest shares how his military service instilled crucial values that guided his transformation.
[15:31] Transforming Anger into Empowerment: We discuss the challenges of emotional control and how Ernest learned to channel his anger in a constructive way.
[19:41] Writing 'Asshole to Awesome': The Journey of Self-Transformation: Ernest delves into the process of writing his book and the insights he gained along the way.
[25:24] Coaching for Happiness: The Four Pillars of Well-Being: Ernest shares his expertise in coaching and the fundamental principles he uses to help others find happiness.
[32:10] Empathy and Emotional Intelligence in Today's World: We discuss the significance of empathy and emotional intelligence in navigating our relationships and society.
[37:31] Giving Back: The Mission Behind the Book: Ernest reveals his motivations for writing 'Asshole to Awesome' and his desire to help others on their own paths to growth.
Ernest’s story is a powerful reminder that change is possible for everyone. His vulnerability and wisdom offer valuable insights for anyone seeking personal growth, healing, and a deeper understanding of themselves and others.
Resources Mentioned in this Episode:
Ernest’s Website: https://www.Ernestwood.com
If Ernest's journey resonates with you, please be sure to check out his website for more information and his book, 'A**hole to Awesome'.