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GrowthReady Podcast
GrowthReady Podcast
What does it mean to be ready to pursue growth? Should we pursue growth when we don't feel ready? And how do we achieve optimal growth by readying ourselves for everything that comes with it? The Growth Ready Podcast seeks to form a true appreciation for all facets of the growth process as we learn from high performers, industry leaders, entrepreneurs, and innovators. Hosted by Steve Mellor, a seasoned high-performance executive coach and former US Olympic swim coach, each episode explores the pivotal moments that define true growth and the work that went into getting ready for it. Through candid conversation and detailed personal accounts, guests share their unique experiences of overcoming challenges, embracing transformation, and what it takes to get ready for every step of their growth journey.
March 6, 2026

Episode 309: Live With More Clarity Even When Life Gets Hard w/ Alison Hadden

Episode 309: Live With More Clarity Even When Life Gets Hard w/ Alison Hadden
GrowthReady Podcast
Episode 309: Live With More Clarity Even When Life Gets Hard w/ Alison Hadden

This special archive episode takes us back to summer 2020, when Steve Mellor interviewed Alison Hadden for his Women Changing the World series. What he only learned afterward was that Alison had found out just one day earlier that her cancer had returned and was terminal. She never mentioned it during the conversation. Instead, she spoke with clarity, strength, and intention about leadership, resilience, and living like there is no time to waste.

Alison passed away in January 2022, but her message continues to inspire anyone seeking to live with more purpose, courage, and gratitude.

About the Guest: Alison Hadden was a sales and marketing leader, athlete, and founder of the No Time to Waste Project. She built her career at high-growth companies including Active, Glassdoor, and Mindbody, and became known for her energy, leadership, and purpose-driven approach to life. After facing cancer, she turned her experience into a mission to help others live with greater gratitude, joy, and urgency.

About the Episode

Steve revisits a conversation first released when the podcast was still called Career Competitor. Part of the Women Changing the World series, this interview stands out for Alison’s remarkable presence and perspective in the face of devastating news.

Rather than focusing on her diagnosis, Alison shared a message that still resonates: live with intention, lead with courage, and don’t waste time on what doesn’t matter.

Key Takeaways:

  • Leadership through adversity
  • The athlete mindset in business and life
  • Grit, resilience, and perspective
  • Cancer, identity, and transformation
  • Gratitude, joy, and human connection
  • Living with urgency and intention

Links and Resources

  • No Time to Waste Project
  • notimetowasteproject.com

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This podcast was produced on Riverside and released via ...

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