full

full
Published on:

15th Oct 2025

What is and isn't success?

When you think about sports, what usually comes to mind? Trophies, accolades, and that sweet taste of victory, right? But what if I told you that sometimes, the real story is found in the journey rather than the final score? In today’s chat, we dive into a thought-provoking moment from NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. After a tough playoff exit, he was asked if his season was a failure, and his response was a game-changer. He pointed out that not every year can be a win, just like in our own lives, where we often don’t get a promotion every single year. He reminded us that it's just a step in a much bigger picture. Giannis got us thinking: does measuring success only by trophies do justice to the hard work, growth, and resilience that come along the way?

We explored this concept further, drawing parallels between sports and everyday life. Think of Michael Jordan; he played 15 NBA seasons and clinched six championships. But what about the other nine seasons? Were they failures? Nah, they were the foundation of his success! It’s like climbing a mountain—most of the time, we’re on the trek, not at the summit. So, in this episode, we encourage you to reflect on your own path. Are the setbacks really failures, or are they just stepping stones toward something greater? We wrapped up with a call to action, inviting you to share your thoughts on this perspective shift. Let’s redefine what success means, shall we?

Takeaways:

  • Giannis Antetokounmpo challenges the idea of failure in sports by emphasizing growth over trophies.
  • Not every year can be a winning year; even MVPs experience setbacks, but it's all a learning curve.
  • Life is more about the journey and the steps we take than just the peak achievements.
  • Michael Jordan's career illustrates that not all years are victorious, but they build the path to greatness.
  • Giannis encourages us to rethink our definitions of success and failure in life and sports.
  • Remember, it's about progress and not just collecting shiny trophies; every step counts!

Links referenced in this episode:



This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis:

Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Transcript
Speaker A:

This is the Daily Note.

Speaker A:

I'm James A.

Speaker A:

Brown.

Speaker A:

After losing a playoff series, former NBA MVP Giannis Antetokounmpo was asked if his season was a failure.

Speaker A:

His reply?

Speaker A:

Well, I still think about it sometimes, he says.

Speaker A:

Do you get a promotion every year at your job?

Speaker A:

So does that mean every year is a failure?

Speaker A:

It's a step, he said.

Speaker A:

That flips how we usually talk about sports.

Speaker A:

We measure greatness in trophies, like seasons without them don't matter.

Speaker A:

But Giannis is right.

Speaker A:

Michael Jordan played 15 years and won six titles.

Speaker A:

Were those other nine years failures or the ground that made the six possible?

Speaker A:

Most of life looks like that, too.

Speaker A:

More steps than mountaintops.

Speaker A:

None of it is wasted.

Speaker A:

So what do you think?

Speaker A:

Do you think Giannis is right, too?

Speaker A:

Let me know on jamesabrown.net, or on that note.

Speaker A:

I'm James A.

Speaker A:

Brown and as always, be well.

Listen for free

Show artwork for The Daily Note with James A. Brown

About the Podcast

The Daily Note with James A. Brown
Finding the extraordinary in the ordinary. 5 days a week, 90 seconds a day, on-air and online from sea to shining sea.
The Daily Note is a daily commentary podcast that finds deeper meaning in everyday moments. Host James A. Brown explores how our world really works through thoughtful observation and authentic storytelling.

Each short-form episode starts with something specific James noticed while walking downtown, a conversation overheard in a coffee shop, or a small detail that revealed something larger about modern life. These aren't political hot takes or partisan commentary. The Daily Note offers genuine reflection and systems thinking for busy professionals.
This daily podcast serves listeners who want intelligent analysis without the noise. Perfect for commuters, coffee breaks, and anyone seeking thoughtful perspective on current events, workplace dynamics, and American culture.

The Daily Note delivers smart commentary, personal storytelling, and practical insights in bite-sized episodes that respect your time and intelligence. New episodes Monday through Friday.

Commentary for people who want to understand their world better, not feel better about what they already believe.

To support my work and tell me what you think join me at JamesABrown.net.
Or email me at comments@jamesabrown.net.

About your host

Profile picture for james brown

james brown