In this bite-sized episode, Paul sits down with transformation coach and Inner Matrix founder Joey Klein for a deep exploration of emotions, conditioning, and what real personal change actually requires. Joey challenges the idea that emotions like anger, anxiety, grief, or sadness are problems to be fixed. Instead, he explains that emotions are natural and necessary—but our reactions to them are learned, conditioned, and trainable. The conversation unpacks how our nervous system defaults to familiar emotional patterns, even when they’re painful, simply because they’re known.

Together, Paul and Joey explore why genuine change feels uncomfortable, why insight alone doesn’t lead to transformation, and why emotional mastery is closer to training a martial art than having a breakthrough moment. Through analogies ranging from skiing to sport to meditation practice, they highlight a core truth: transformation can happen quickly, but mastery takes time, repetition, and discipline. The episode also touches on relationships, fulfilment, and why inner training is the foundation for success in business, leadership, and life—without it, even the best tools and tactics fall flat.

Link to full episode:

https://open.spotify.com/episode/1ctU80Jis7Jyh2s6PdHXIW?si=aF5Z0O9mRGGgaVWutSO6w

About the Guest — Joey Klein Joey Klein is the founder of Inner Matrix Systems and a leading teacher in emotional mastery, nervous system regulation, and inner training. With over two decades of experience working with entrepreneurs, elite performers, and couples, Joey has helped tens of thousands of people recondition emotional patterns that limit fulfilment, performance, and connection. He is the author of Inner Matrix and Relationship Alchemy, where he distils the core habits that destroy—and strengthen—human relationships.

Find Joey: innermatrixsystems.com

About the Host — Paul Ryan Paul Ryan is an entrepreneur, 8-figure business owner, mentor, podcaster, and creator of the 1-Hour CEO and Life Code programs. As host of The Inner Entrepreneur Podcast, Paul explores the inner game of success—helping founders and leaders build meaningful, aligned lives without sacrificing health, relationships, or self.

Work With Paul If you’re ready to build a business and life that’s aligned, intentional, and deeply fulfilling, explore The Life Code and The 1-Hour CEO — mentoring, frameworks, and tools for high-performing entrepreneurs seeking peace, purpose, and freedom alongside success.

Book a Discovery Call with Paul: https://calendly.com/inner-entrepreneur-podcast/discovery-call-with-paul-ryan

Connect with the host: Pauljryan.net https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-ryan-9a98774/