Send us Fan MailIn this episode of the Strong By Design Podcast, Coach Chris Wilson sits down with self-influence strategist and Real Influence podcast host Joey Vaillancourt for a powerful conversation about the hidden emotional cost of achievement, the identity traps many high performers fall into, and why success alone often fails to bring lasting fulfillment.Joey shares his personal journey through divorce, sobriety, fatherhood, and deep personal transformation—and explains how unconscious programming can keep driven people stuck in constant pressure mode, always chasing the next milestone while feeling disconnected from themselves and the people who matter most.Together, Chris and Joey unpack the difference between pain and suffering, why achievement can quietly become an addiction, and how redefining success through presence, awareness, contribution, and relationships can completely change the way we live and lead.If you’ve ever felt like you “should” be happier after reaching your goals… this episode is for you. Time Stamps0:00 – Why success doesn’t feel as good as it should 0:37 – Welcome to the Strong By Design podcast! 4:22 – The identity trap behind your results 6:21 – Pain vs suffering: Why it matters 12:21 – Why achievement still leaves you feeling empty 23:36 – The mindset shift that changes everything 27:54 – What happens when your standards get clear 30:31 – What’s really controlling your decisions 31:21 – Why success still feels like something is missing 33:53 – The thing 'more valuable' than status or money 35:51 – Why helping others changes how you feel 37:17 – Daily habits that builds real awareness 39:24 – The trap of comparing your life to others 40:47 – Stay connected with Joey Vaillancourt 41:25 – Share, rate & review the Strong By Design podcast! Resources:JoeyVaillancourt.comReal Influence Podcast Connect with Joey V:Instagram Connect with Chris:InstagramSupport the showConnect w/ Critical Bench: YoutubeFacebookInstagramCriticalBench.comCriticalNutritionLabs.comStrongByDesignPodcast.com