Listen On:

overcoming fear with john assaraf

Listen On:

Overcoming Fear: How to Rewire Your Mind for Success with John Assaraf

Overcoming fear is often the barrier standing between coaches and the success they desire. In this episode of The Abundant Coach, host Lauren Brollier Newton sits down with world-renowned high-performance coach John Assaraf to explore the science behind overcoming fear and transforming hesitation into action.

In this empowering conversation, Assaraf explains how the brain processes fear and how to distinguish between intuition and fear-based hesitation. He provides actionable neuroscience-backed strategies that can help coaches retrain their minds, cultivate resilience, and move forward with confidence—even in the face of uncertainty.

Beyond mindset, the discussion also explores how AI is reshaping the coaching industry, offering new opportunities for business growth and client transformation. With insights on self-sabotage, sales resistance, and the psychology of commitment, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to break free from limiting beliefs and step into greater success.

Understanding Fear: The Difference Between Fear and Intuition

Throughout the interview, John Assaraf shares his deep understanding of how fear operates within the brain and how coaches can condition themselves to respond in a way that supports success instead of hesitation. 

In the process of overcoming fear, one of the biggest challenges for many coaches is recognizing whether their hesitation stems from intuition or fear. Assaraf clarifies that while intuition is an immediate, neutral knowing, fear often brings discomfort, overthinking, and avoidance. He explains how understanding this difference allows coaches to make more empowered choices rather than being ruled by limiting beliefs.

The Neuroscience of Overcoming Fear

Assaraf introduces his “Frankenstein vs. Einstein” model to illustrate the brain’s competing functions. The Frankenstein brain is the survival-oriented, fear-driven part that scans for threats, often mistaking discomfort for danger. This part of the brain releases stress hormones like cortisol, creating hesitation and anxiety. 

The Einstein brain, on the other hand, is the center of creativity, problem-solving, and strategic thinking. Success in overcoming fear comes from training the mind to quiet the Frankenstein brain and activate the Einstein brain when making decisions.

To help coaches who are overcoming fear, Assaraf outlines several neuroscience-based strategies. One of the most effective techniques he discusses is interrupting negative self-talk. Since thoughts drive emotions and emotions drive actions, shifting the internal dialogue from “What if I fail?” to “What if I succeed?” changes how the brain perceives risk. This simple but powerful shift alters neurochemistry, reducing fear-based paralysis and increasing confidence.

Micro-Actions: A Practical Strategy to Rewire Fear-Based Thinking

Another core principle Assaraf emphasizes is the use of micro-actions to bypass the brain’s resistance to change. Many people feel overwhelmed by big goals, leading to procrastination. By breaking a goal into extremely small steps, coaches can create forward momentum while avoiding the fear response that comes with drastic changes. Over time, these micro-actions form new neural pathways, strengthening confidence and courage as a habit.

Overcoming Fear of Selling

The conversation also highlights how fear plays a major role in coaches’ resistance to selling. Many coaches associate selling with being pushy or manipulative, leading to hesitation when offering their services. Assaraf reframes selling as an act of service. If a coach truly believes in the transformation they offer, they owe it to their clients to communicate that value confidently. He emphasizes that selling is not about taking—it’s about giving people the opportunity to transform their lives.

AI and the Future of Coaching: Overcoming Fear of Technology in Your Coaching Business

The episode also ventures into the future of AI in coaching, a topic that many find intimidating. Assaraf presents AI as an ally rather than a threat, explaining how it can streamline marketing, enhance client interactions, and free up more time for impactful coaching work. By embracing AI tools, coaches can reduce time spent on administrative tasks and focus on what truly matters—helping their clients achieve life-changing results.

Key Takeaways from This Episode

  • Fear is a learned response, but it can be unlearned through intentional mindset shifts and neuroscience-backed strategies.
  • The difference between fear and intuition is that intuition is calm and immediate, while fear is usually coupled with hesitation and doubt.
  • Breaking big goals into micro-actions is an effective way to bypass fear and build momentum.
  • Selling is an act of service—coaches who hesitate to sell are actually withholding transformation from those who need it.
  • AI is a tool, not a threat—when leveraged correctly, it can help coaches grow their businesses and better serve their clients.

Join the Life Coach Accelerator: Your First Step to Overcoming Fear & Building a Thriving Coaching Business

If you’re ready to push past fear and build a coaching business with confidence, the Life Coach Accelerator is for you! This free 5-day challenge is designed to help both aspiring and struggling coaches gain clarity, attract ideal clients, and break through self-doubt. Participants will learn how to find their soulmate clients, communicate their value, and develop the confidence to step into their calling as a successful coach.

🚀 Save Your Spot Now!


BONUS: AI Masterclass with John Assaraf

For coaches looking to stay ahead in an evolving industry, John Assaraf is hosting a special AI Masterclass to teach how to integrate AI for marketing, client acquisition, and scalable business growth. This session is an opportunity to learn how to leverage cutting-edge technology to work smarter, not harder.

🔗 Connect with John and grab your spot here!