Chris Nikic on the 1% Better Mindset with Greg McDonough - Episode # 129
Chris Nikic is no stranger to shattering expectations. As the first person with Down Syndrome to complete an Ironman, Chris has since conquered all six global marathon majors twice and continues to inspire athletes, business leaders, and audiences worldwide. In this conversation, Chris and his dad Nick share the power of the “1% Better” mindset, why execution matters more than ideas, and how inclusion can transform lives and organizations. From keynote stages to global races, Chris embodies resilience, joy, and the pursuit of potential.
Key Takeaways for Leaders:
- Small wins create big change. Chris’s “1% Better” system is built on small, consistent improvements that compound into extraordinary results.
- Execution beats ideas. As Nick points out, ideas are common, but consistent execution is what drives results. Businesses thrive when leaders focus on action, not just strategy.
- Mental toughness is everything. Success comes down to grit. Training your mind to go “one more” step prepares you to overcome setbacks in business.
- Authenticity inspires connection. Chris’s keynote speeches resonate because they are genuine. Leaders who communicate with authenticity create deeper trust and lasting impact.
- Inclusion unlocks potential. Chris’s foundation and academy are proving that people with intellectual disabilities can achieve independence, leadership, and athletic success. Businesses that embrace inclusion gain access to untapped talent and innovation.
- Love what you do. Chris’s daily training and speaking schedule reflect his passion for living fully. Leaders should cultivate environments where purpose and joy fuel performance.
- Be who you are. Chris’s closing advice reminds leaders that identity and authenticity are powerful drivers of resilience and success.
Quote of the Show:
- " Our mission is to help as many people achieve their full potential and become role models so we can really show the world that our kids with intellectual disabilities can be fully included in all areas of life."
Links:
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-nikic-362303263/
- Company website: https://chrisnikic.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrisnikic/#
- Chris Nikic Foundation: https://chrisnikic.com/foundation/
Ways to Tune In:
- Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/580aLDKac1ld031W4nWDtp
- Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/chief-endurance-officer/id1680214218?uo=4
- Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy50cmFuc2lzdG9yLmZtL2NoaWVmLWVuZHVyYW5jZS1vZmZpY2Vy
- Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/3c96880f-8dcd-4a6e-b1c8-fda816f872a9
- Podcast Addict: https://podcastaddict.com/podcast/4340732
- Deezer: https://www.deezer.com/show/5897357
- Player FM: https://player.fm/series/series-3462719
- Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/chief-endurance-officer-5250102
- Listen Notes: https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/chief-endurance-officer-ringmaster-KMdv2I8XwkN/
Keep up to date on our social accounts:
- Check out our Website: http://enduranceofficer.com/
- Community Discount Link: https://ceopodcast.myezrewards.com/signup/chief-endurance-officer-podcast
- Join my Endurance Leadership Community: https://endurance-leadership-community.mn.co/share/_C3ZDRz7OX2vbCme?utm_source=manual
Chief Endurance Officer is produced by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through B2B podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/
Creators and Guests
Host
Gregory McDonough
Greg McDonough is a seasoned executive who has owned and operated businesses in the professional services sector, navigating them through both good and tough times. He brings his personal experience of knowing what it’s like to be ‘in the owner’s seat’ when working with clients, taking time to ask the questions others may not.
