I’ve always been obsessed with comedy.

Growing up, watching SNL with my mom was a ritual.

More recently, I watched the documentary Becoming Eddie on Netflix, and it hit me—the courage those performers have to step up and make people laugh (or groan) is incredible. It’s a pure, terrifying test of charisma and communication.

So, I’ve decided on my 2026 Misogi.

Right now, you might be thinking, “What the heck is a Misogi, Danny?”

A Misogi is a Japanese concept of a year defining moment.

My Misogi for 2026? I'm going to do stand-up comedy open mics.

My goal isn't to quit my job and become a professional comedian (or maybe it is lol)

It’s simply this: to learn new skills to make people feel good and laugh, and to push myself to face a huge fear.

Stand-up is very, very hard. You’re totally exposed. But I believe pushing through that fear will only enhance my own leadership ability, my presentation skills, my storytelling, and how I facilitate trainings.

Here’s what that means for you: Real confidence isn't found in comfort.

It’s found in the intentional pursuit of massive, intimidating personal challenges that force you to grow.

The person who succeeds at their Misogi in their personal life is the same person who shows up in the principal's office ready to be a Ruckus Maker …

This kind of intense focus on the Inner Game is the ultimate form of Phase 1: Lead Domino Stage work.

If you don't define your own year-defining challenge, your year will be defined by the administrative busy work that fills your calendar (the stuff that drains you).

This is the power of the Inner Game of Leadership.

You have to be intentional about creating your own pressure points for growth. It’s why the greatest leaders are always focused on mastering themselves first.

If you’re ready to define your 2026, push past your biggest professional and personal fears, and lead with genuine swagger ...

Then I invite you to join my FREE training TONIGHT @ 6PM ET!!!

We’ll walk you through how to use the Misogi concept, the Harada Method, and powerful habit stacking to design your own year-defining challenge and build unstoppable confidence.

Click below to reserve your spot and get reminder emails 👇

Keep Making a Ruckus,

Danny