Bulletin | The Big Problem

In this episode of the Straight-Line Podcast, Johan and Mandy van der Put discuss Chapter 34 of the book *Inner Stance*: “The Big Problem.” Believing strongly in something is a substitute for certainty, but it is not truth. If something is truly true, you don’t need to believe in it. Believing strongly in something doesn’t make it true. What is true for you is not always real. At one time, many people believed that the world was flat or that the Earth was the center of the universe. Belief is often easier than careful observation. Beliefs can be painful, but they are usually comfortable and addictive. What people are certain of is not always correct and can cause problems. Remember that most beliefs are not recognized as beliefs.

Other episodes

You're putting it off. You just call it something else. | Straight-Line Podcast Highlights

Procrastination is rarely called “procrastination.” We call it waiting for the right moment. We call it “I’m worried.” We call it “I need to understand it first.” In this episode of the Straight-Line Podcast, Kristof and Johan peel back four of those masks and show that “now” isn’t a spot on the calendar, but a mindset.

From wanting to doing: Kristof and Johan’s best insights in 2026

This is a special compilation of the Straight-Line Podcast featuring the most memorable moments of 2026, organized around a single central theme:the gap between knowing and doing.

You get what you put up with

Every time you let something slide, you lower the bar. In this episode, discover how to set standards that foster growth and trust.

Episode 3: The Network of Commitments and Results (The Language of Results)

It’s all about commitments: strong, weak, or criminal. In this episode, discover how commitments can make or break your results.

Episode 2: The Network of Conversations (The Language of Results)

Conversations shape your results: both what’s said and what’s left unsaid. In this episode, discover how you, as a leader, can influence what’s actually said.

The Hard Lessons Behind a New Business | The Story of Inner Stance

Find out what valuable lessons Johan, Mandy, and Kristof learned leading up to the launch of Inner Stance.

Episode 6: Core Actions vs. Superficial Actions (The Geometry of Success)

In this sixth episode of The Geometry of Success, we distinguish between core actions and superficial actions.

Episode 4: Agreements vs. Expectations (The Geometry of Success)

In this episode, discover one of the most powerful and fundamental distinctions when it comes to effective leadership: Agreements vs. Expectations.

Business Partner: Partner or Parasite?

Is your business partner an asset or a liability? Find out right away with these clear-cut distinctions.

Working from Home: Stay in Control as a Business Leader

Working from home has become an integral part of our lives, but what does it mean for leadership and communication?

Dealing with Conflict in Business

Listen to the episode and discover how you can effectively handle conflicts so you don’t end up in a wait-and-see mode.

Create your own success in business

Our leadership coaches reveal three powerful tools to help you rise above your circumstances and shape your own future.

Communication and Leadership in Times of Crisis

In this episode, learn how to stay on course as an entrepreneur during a crisis through strong leadership and effective communication.

Strengthen your leadership by making unreasonable requests

Discover why seemingly unreasonable requests are the secret behind breakthroughs in entrepreneurship and leadership.

How to Show Leadership in Your Relationship

In this Valentine's Day special, you'll learn how to strengthen your romantic relationship through leadership and communication.

Chapter 39 | What I Contribute vs. What I Earn

Strong leadership is about giving, not about taking. Focus on what you give, not on what you deserve, and avoid the weakness of playing the victim.

Real Love – with Mandy and Johan van der Put

True love requires radical acceptance: seeing people as they are, not as you want them to be. This creates authentic, powerful connections.

What do you really do for others?

Are you truly there for someone, or are you just present? Love requires action, not passivity. Confront, challenge, and consciously make a difference in your relationships.

Relationship Mastery – with Mandy and Johan van der Put

Watch out for “warning signs” in relationships. Ignoring early signs leads to bigger problems. Be proactive and build strong, lasting connections.

Game Over

Leadership requires responsibility, not a culture of complaining. Avoid playing the victim, work together strategically, and emphasize mutual benefit.