EP 120: Real Confidence- His Own Death Gave Him Confidence

Okay, grab your wine, your tea, your snack — whatever makes you cozy — because you are NOT ready for the story Jeff Luther is about to tell. This guy survived literal near-death, like “heart stopped, flatlined, dead for eight minutes” kind of near-death. And somehow, instead of coming out bitter or broken, he came out with a superpower: a brand-new perspective on confidence, vulnerability, and connection.

We’re talking about a man who went from running 50Ks and feeling unstoppable to being told, “Hey buddy, your heart’s dangerous. Don’t move too much or you could die.” And yes, that’s terrifying. But Jeff didn’t just survive physically — he came out thinking, feeling, and acting differently in ways that any of us can learn from, even if our worst day doesn’t involve flatlining.

What I loved about Jeff is how real he is about fear and vulnerability. He had to confront what he was afraid to face — not just for himself but for his teenage son, who witnessed parts of this. Jeff’s story is raw, human, and honestly, a little scary, but it’s full of nuggets about how confidence isn’t just a skill, it’s a survival tool.

Confidence isn’t the result of something dramatic happening. Jeff will be the first to tell you that it’s a choice (sound familiar?). This conversation may be heavy in some places, but it’s also hopeful because Jeff proves that even small shifts in our mindset and also showing up for others — vulnerably, genuinely — actually builds your confidence in ways you don’t expect.

Key takeaways from our conversation include:

• How leaning into honesty with yourself and others builds real, resilient confidence.
• The ways gratitude literally rewires your brain.
• What it means to connect when life is hard. Whether it’s a near-death moment or just a tough conversation with your teen, showing up fully strengthens your confidence and relationships simultaneously.
• How to flip fear into agency.
• The role mindset plays in shaping recovery and growth.

Jeff Luther is a seasoned entrepreneur and fitness enthusiast who has overcome significant health challenges, including a life-threatening heart condition. With over 25 years of experience in business and a passion for inspiring others, Jeff utilizes his journey to motivate individuals facing their own adversities. He shares valuable insights on resilience, gratitude, and the importance of human connection. You can learn more about Jeff Luther at jeffluther.com.