EZ Conversations

Join EZ Conversations host Furkhan Dandia in a valuable episode featuring Julia Abeln, as they delve into the transformative world of Kundalini yoga. Discover Julia's awe-inspiring journey of self-discovery and the profound impact Kundalini yoga had on her life, paving the way for her incredible transformation.

In this captivating episode, Julia Abeln, a dedicated Kundalini yoga instructor, shares her intimate narrative of how she stumbled upon this ancient practice and its remarkable effects on her personal growth. Through her candid conversations with Furkhan, listeners will uncover the secrets behind Kundalini yoga's ability to unlock inner potential, achieve spiritual harmony, and embrace life's challenges with resilience.

From exploring Julia's pivotal moments to understanding the profound philosophy behind Kundalini yoga, this episode offers profound insights into:

• Julia's personal experiences and the pivotal moments that led her to Kundalini yoga
• The transformative power of Kundalini yoga in reshaping perspectives and fostering inner peace
• How Kundalini yoga became the catalyst for Julia's journey toward becoming a passionate instructor
• Practical tips and guidance for those seeking to explore Kundalini yoga's profound benefits

Tune in to this thought-provoking episode of EZ Conversations and embark on a soul-stirring journey into the world of Kundalini yoga. Prepare to be inspired, motivated, and empowered as Julia Abeln shares her wisdom and experiences with host Furkhan Dandia in an enlightening discussion that promises to illuminate the path to self-discovery and transformation.

Julia is a Kundalini Yoga Teacher and Holistic Transformational Coach based in Berlin, Germany. She is passionate about creating safe spaces and experiences for people to reconnect to their authentic expression to live a more intentional and purposeful life by being true to who they are, their values, and their desires. In her work, she calls upon tools and practices based on Practical Spirituality that has proven effective throughout her journey from depressed corporate accountant to free-spirited yogi and coach travelling around the globe.

You can find Julia online and Instagram @julia_holistics and www.theholistictoolbox.com

Sponsors of the Podcast:

We Are Wild for 25% off your first order: https://zen.ai/EZ23

If you would like to support EZ Conversations, here are all the ways you can do that:

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.instagram.com/eunoiazen⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.facebook.com/EunoiaZen⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EZConversations

patreon.com/EzConversations

Or find Furkhan's Book, Pursuit of Self Love: 30 Uplifting Messages and Reflections. The Kindle version is available on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.ca/Pursuit-Self-Love-Uplifting-Messages-Reflections-ebook/dp/B0C4D1XYL1

In this week's transformative episode, where I engage in a soul-stirring dialogue with the inspiring Bethany Inez. Together, we embark on a profound exploration of self-discovery, spirituality, and personal development.

Bethany Inez, a renowned coach and an advocate for personal development, shares her unique perspective on the transformative power of self-discovery. Drawing from her own journey, Bethany delves into the importance of embracing vulnerability and authenticity as catalysts for unlocking one's true potential.

Throughout the episode, listeners will be captivated by Bethany's wisdom as she imparts practical tools for self-reflection and introspection. From mindfulness practices to spiritual rituals, the conversation unfolds like a roadmap for those seeking a deeper connection with themselves.

Through a thought-provoking discussion my goal was to invite Bethany to share personal anecdotes and invaluable insights. Together, we explored the intersections of spirituality and personal development, offering a roadmap for listeners to navigate their own inner landscapes.

Tune in to discover the profound impact of self-discovery on personal growth and how spirituality can guide the journey toward a more authentic and fulfilling life. Join EZ Conversations for an enlightening episode that transcends the ordinary, inviting you to embark on a transformative exploration of the self.

Bethany's first immersion in the study of the human experience spanned 20 years her career of owning salons and serving as a stylist. She quickly became known as the person who supported people to transform their inner worlds and lives - with a hair transformation as a bonus - and people returned to see her and share with her for years on end.

In surveying tens of thousands of people over this time, a common thread that she witnessed time and again was…people not recognizing themselves as the brilliant and unique humans they truly are. People are not seeing their innate worthiness. People are not seeing their splendour.

No matter what efforts humans were making in their physical world, they couldn’t see it.

Paired with her personal journey with all things human (like trauma and heartbreak!), healing and deep transformation, she devoted herself to spreading what she had learned, experienced, released, created and embodied, with other humans who needed it - and gratefully, Splendor was born.

It truly is her greatest joy in this life to support people to heal and see their magnificence, so that they can powerfully step into the next evolution of themselves, from a place of wholeness and worthiness.

Each and every one of the programs at Splendor are an extension of her heart, soul and lived experiences, so she knows they work.

Find Bethany online: www. revealyoursplendor.com and @revealyoursplendor

Sponsors of the Podcast:

We Are Wild for 25% of your first order: https://zen.ai/EZ23

If you would like to support EZ Conversations, here are all the ways you can do that:

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.instagram.com/eunoiazen⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.facebook.com/EunoiaZen⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EZConversations

patreon.com/EzConversations

Or find Furkhan's Book, Pursuit of Self Love: 30 Uplifting Messages and Reflections. The Kindle version is available on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.ca/Pursuit-Self-Love-Uplifting-Messages-Reflections-ebook/dp/B0C4D1XYL1

Join us for a heartwarming and enlightening episode of EZ Conversations, where your host Furkhan Dandia welcomes the renowned author and kindness advocate, Alan Questel. In this special episode, Alan shares his profound insights from his book "Practicing Kindness" and delves into the transformative power of kindness in our lives.

Alan Questel, a globally recognized teacher and practitioner of movement and embodiment, has dedicated his life to exploring the profound impact of kindness on our well-being, relationships, and the world at large. Furkhan and Alan engage in a heartfelt conversation about how we can incorporate kindness into our daily routines and interactions, making the world a better place one act of kindness at a time.

In this episode, they explore:

• The concept of kindness and its significance in our lives.
• Practical techniques and exercises for cultivating kindness within ourselves.
• The ripple effect of kindness on personal growth and community building.
• Real-life examples of how kindness has transformed lives and communities.
• The role of mindfulness and self-awareness in practicing kindness.

Alan Questel's wisdom and expertise are sure to leave you inspired and motivated to infuse more kindness into your life. Whether you're a seasoned kindness enthusiast or just starting your journey, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable steps to make kindness a central theme in your story.

Tune in to "Practicing Kindness: A Deep Dive with Alan Questel" on EZ Conversations and discover how simple acts of kindness can create a ripple effect that touches hearts and changes lives.

Alan S. Questel is known for his clarity, creativity and down to earth style of teaching. He brings a depth of understanding, humor and gentle human perspective while creating lively conditions for learning. Alan has taught thousands of people in over 20 countries, on 5 continents.

Trained by Dr. Feldenkrais (Amherst 1983) he has created numerous Feldenkrais programs on varied topics including one for pregnant women (Pregnant Pauses). He is author of Creating Creativity – Embodying the Creative Process.

He is still discovering how to be kinder to others and toward himself.

Sponsors of the Podcast:

We Are Wild for 25% of your first order: https://zen.ai/EZ23

If you would like to support EZ Conversations, here are all the ways you can do that:

Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.instagram.com/eunoiazen⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Facebook:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.facebook.com/EunoiaZen⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EZConversations

patreon.com/EzConversations

Or find Furkhan's Book, Pursuit of Self Love: 30 Uplifting Messages and Reflections. The Kindle version is available on Amazon:

https://www.amazon.ca/Pursuit-Self-Love-Uplifting-Messages-Reflections-ebook/dp/B0C4D1XYL1

In this eye-opening episode of EZ Conversations, I welcome an inspiring guest, Victoria Pelletier. Join us as we delve into a meaningful topic: parenting through a child's gender transition. Victoria Pelletier takes us on a journey through her family's experience as they navigate the uncharted waters of their child's gender transition. As a guest who brings vulnerability, Victoria shares her story authentically, offering listeners a rare glimpse into the challenges of this journey.

In this conversation, Victoria discusses her initial emotions upon learning about her child's desire to transition. She opens up about her personal growth, the moments of uncertainty, and the deep bond between her and her child as they've navigated this path together. Using her experiences, Victoria paints a picture of parents' responsibilities in these circumstances.

Join us for a conversation encouraging understanding and a different perspective as we learn from Victoria Pelletier's parenting journey. While I have different views about this subject, I was curious to hear Victoria's approach.

Towards the end of the episode, Victoria and I also discuss her views and work in the Diversity and Inclusion space. Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) is an area I have thought about, and I was interested in hearing Victoria's views.

Key Topics:

• Journey of a parent during a child's gender transition
• Navigating challenges and uncertainties
• Strategies for maintaining open communication and fostering acceptance
• Building an inclusive environment at home and in the community
• Finding strength in the face of adversity

Victoria is a 20+ year Corporate Executive and Board Director. Nicknamed the “Turn Around Queen” by former colleagues and employers, Victoria inspires and empowers her team and clients to change mindsets and drive growth in business, leadership and culture. As someone who does not subscribe to the status quo, she is always ready for new challenges becoming one of the youngest Chief Operating Officers at the age of 24, a president by 35 and a CEO by age 41.

Victoria was recognized as one of the 2023 Women of Influence by South Florida Business Journal, a semi-finalist in the 2023 50/50 Women on Boards Women to Watch, 2022 Top 30 Most Influential Business Leaders in Tech by CIOLook, 2022 Most Influential Entrepreneur of the Year by World Magazine, 2021’s Top 50 Business Leader in Technology by Insight Magazine and a Mentor of the Year by Women in Communications & Technology in 2020. HSBC Bank awarded her the Diversity & Inclusion in Innovation award in 2019, and she was IBM’s #1 Global Social Seller ranked by LinkedIn in 2019 and 2020.

As a prolific motivational and inspirational speaker, Victoria has delivered keynotes discussing the importance of personal branding and its impact on professional growth, being an empathetic leader in empowering employees, the power of DEI on corporate cultures and building a life of resilience.

Social Platforms

Website: https://victoria-pelletier.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoriapelletier/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/PelletierV29

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/victoria_pelletier_unstoppable/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Victoria.Pelletier.Speaker

Medium: https://medium.com/@victoriapelletier

YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/VictoriaPelletierNoExcuses

YouTube Speaker Reel: https://youtu.be/na8LwVeWsmE

Podcast Guests Profile: https://podcastguests.com/expert/victoriapelletier/

Join me in this inspiring podcast episode as we delve into the captivating journey of Dina Kaplan, a trailblazing entrepreneur who dared to redefine success. In this candid conversation, we explore her bold decision to step away from her thriving start-up and embark on a profound journey of self-discovery.

Dina Kaplan, known for her pioneering role in the tech industry, shares her story of her pivot, revealing the challenges and triumphs that led her to uncover her true purpose. With compelling insights, she takes us through the pivotal moments that inspired her to carve a new path and lay the foundation for The Path, her transformative venture.

Discover the raw emotions, invaluable lessons, and transformative experiences that shaped Dina's personal and professional evolution. From the corridors of being a part of a Tech Startup to the serene corners of self-reflection, Dina's tale offers a wealth of wisdom for anyone seeking to reevaluate their own journey and find the courage to pursue their passions.

Please tune in to this thought-provoking episode as we unravel the power of self-discovery, resilience, and reinvention with Dina, a visionary entrepreneur who turned her quest for authenticity into creating The Path. This platform is redefining how we connect and engage with the world.

Dina Kaplan is the founder of The Path and a certified meditation teacher who, since 2014, has led meditations and retreats worldwide for individuals, corporations, festivals, conferences and more. Dina writes about mindfulness for entrepreneurs in Forbes and has written about meditation for the New York Times, Time Magazine’s Motto brand, The Standard Hotel group and Medium. Dina has studied and practiced dozens of meditation techniques, including Vipassana, Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction, Vedic (or “mantra”) meditation, loving-kindness or (“metta”) meditation and more. Dina’s mission is to give people the tools and inspiration to begin and continue daily practice and to create a community around meditation. Before The Path, Dina was an Emmy-award-winning journalist and founder of the digital media start-up Blip. Find Dina's work online: at www.thepath.com or her Instagram: @dinakaplan.

In this captivating episode of EZ Conversations, we dive deep into the mesmerizing realm of bodily healing, unlocking the secrets behind its extraordinary ability to restore harmony to mind, body, and soul. Get ready to embark on a transformative journey as we explore the remarkable world of somatic therapy and its powerful impact on holistic well-being.

In this episode, I am joined by Taune Lyons and we unravel the mysteries of somatic healing, shedding light on its history, principles, and proven benefits. From ancient practices to modern science-backed methodologies, we uncover the various approaches that empower individuals to tap into their body's innate capacity for healing. We discuss the science behind how our bodies store emotional and traumatic experiences. Listeners will understand clearly how unresolved emotions can manifest as physical ailments and how somatic healing provides a holistic approach to address these issues at their roots.

Explore practical techniques and exercises that guide you toward unlocking your body's hidden potential for self-healing. Learn how mindful movement, breathwork, and meditation can harmonize your inner energy, promote relaxation, and alleviate stress and trauma. Discover the art of listening to your body's signals and intuitively responding to its needs, fostering renewed vitality and well-being. We also cover the intricate neural mechanisms underlying somatic healing, explaining how it stimulates the release of neurotransmitters that facilitate emotional release and physiological balance.

Whether you're seeking relief from chronic pain, recovering from emotional wounds, or simply aiming to enhance your overall health, this episode provides valuable insights into the power of somatic healing. This engaging conversation with Taune offers a firsthand glimpse into the remarkable transformations that can occur when we tap into our body's wisdom.

Please tune in to this episode to embark on a captivating journey of self-discovery as we unravel the secrets of somatic healing and embrace the profound potential of healing from within. Your path to holistic wellness and empowerment awaits! I invite you to join us on this remarkable exploration, to unlock the power of somatic healing and embark on your transformative journey. Subscribe, share, and engage with us as we delve into the depths of human potential and holistic wellness with every episode. Your path toward healing and empowerment begins with a single listen. Taune Lyons is a somatic and transpersonal licensed therapist, coach and facilitator. She is devoted to continually exploring and supporting mutually deep and expansive connections, believing that the way we heal the world is right here, right now: by way of connecting with the stories in our bodies, the narrative of our nervous systems, and the co-creativity made by clicking with both the human and other-than-human world. She has a hope that all beings may know liberation and transformational love.

Please find Taune on Instagram: @taunelyons or her website: www.taunelyons.com

Tune in to another mind-bending, eye-opening episode of EZ Conversations as we take a mesmerizing journey into the world of hypnotherapy with the renowned Jonathan Royle! Prepare to have your perceptions shattered as we delve into the untapped potential of the human mind. Jonathan Royle, a master hypnotist and expert in the art of suggestion, will take us on a mind-altering exploration of the subconscious, revealing the secrets of hypnotherapy that can instantly change lives. Join me as we uncover the myths and mysteries surrounding hypnosis and hypnotism, separating fact from fiction, and revealing the astonishing truths about this ancient healing art. Jonathan's years of experience and expertise in the field will leave you spellbound and questioning everything you thought you knew about the power of the mind.

In this captivating episode, we'll learn the astonishing therapeutic applications of hypnosis, from overcoming phobias and traumas to enhancing confidence and achieving peak performance. Jonathan will share real-life success stories of clients who have experienced remarkable transformations, leading us to contemplate the infinite possibilities that lie within each of us. As we dive deeper into the psyche, we'll also discuss the ethical considerations and misconceptions surrounding hypnotherapy. Jonathan will enlighten us with his compassionate and responsible approach to ensure that this powerful tool is used responsibly for the greater good.

Are you ready to experience the trance-like state of hypnosis yourself? Please stay tuned as Jonathan Royle guides us through a live, interactive demonstration. You won't believe the profound effects that can be achieved in mere minutes! Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, this episode will challenge your beliefs and open your mind to the boundless potential that hypnotherapy offers. Don't miss this mind-expanding conversation with Jonathan Royle – it's an episode that will be talked about for years to come! Unlock the hidden depths of your mind with us on EZ Conversations!

Dr. Jonathan Royle is regarded by many as one of the Worlds Leading Authorities on Hypnotherapy, NLP, Self-Help, Personal Development and Self-Improvement Strategies and Techniques. His Mind Skills and Talents have been featured extensively on TV & Radio Shows and within Newspapers and Magazines around the world, where he has often been linked to some of the worlds most famous A-List Celebrities.

Jonathan was born into a showbiz family whilst travelling with Gandey’s Circus, Alex made his stage debut aged 3 as Flap the Clown. Before he reached his Teenage Years he was firmly established as one of England’s Top Up & Coming Magician’s & Stage Illusionists. He is now better known worldwide as Hypnotherapist Alex William Smith or in his stage name as Jonathan Royle Stage Hypnotist and International Hypnotherapy Trainer & Teacher. At the age of 14 in 1989 he became the youngest ever member of the Association of Professional Hypnotherapists & Psychotherapists (APHP) as founded by Dr. Brian Howard in the early 1980’s. He started treating people with Hypnotherapy and thus to date has been conducting Professional Paid Hypnotherapy sessions for over 33 years. He immediately started presenting public demonstrations of Hypnosis for both Entertainment and Educational Purposes.

Within a Couple of years he gave up the “Clairvoyance Style” shows and turned to exposing how the public get conned by people who do such performances so they can protect themselves from being ripped off by charlatans. Now, he has been presenting training seminars in Hypnosis for Therapeutic techniques around the world to Fellow Professionals including many Medical GP’s, Nurses, Plastic Surgeons, Cancer Surgeons, Dentists and other established and respected Medical Professionals for Fast approaching 30 years.

Disclaimer: This episode is intended for informational purposes only. Hypnotherapy should be practiced by trained professionals.

In this week's episode, prepare to be mesmerized as we dive into the captivating world of Sufism with an extraordinary guest who has truly embraced its profound teachings in every aspect of her life. In this special episode, I sit down with Dr. Zoha Fazel, a living embodiment of Sufi wisdom, to explore her awe-inspiring journey on the mystical path.

Dr. Fazel shares her transformative adventure, which commenced with an encounter that forever changed the trajectory of her existence. From the very first steps, the all-encompassing love and boundless wisdom of Sufism illuminated her soul, leading her to embark on a quest of self-discovery and enlightenment.

Throughout this riveting conversation, Dr. Fazel reveals how she integrated the core principles of Sufism into her daily life. Love, compassion, and unity became her guiding beacons, forging powerful connections with people from all walks of life. Prepare to be inspired as she shares profound tales of healing broken hearts, mending broken spirits, and bridging divides with the strength of love and understanding.

The essence of Sufism lies in transcending the ego and finding one's divine purpose. Dr. Fazel eloquently unveils her struggle to break free from the shackles of the ego, enabling her to attain spiritual heights previously unimaginable. She recounts the awe-inspiring moments of divine union and how these experiences continue to shape her purposeful existence.

Furthermore, this episode uncovers the power of remembrance (dhikr), a cornerstone of Sufi devotion. Dr. Fazel shares the profound impact of immersing herself in the repetition of sacred words, leading her to unparalleled spiritual bliss.

As our conversation unfolds, we witness how the teachings of Sufism have rippled outwards, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of countless individuals. Dr. Fazel has become a beacon of hope and positivity, touching hearts and souls across the globe. Her unwavering dedication to service, kindness, and understanding has sparked a movement of love that knows no bounds.

Join me on this captivating voyage of self-discovery, love, and spiritual enlightenment. Whether you're an avid Sufi seeker or a curious soul looking for inspiration, this episode is to be noticed! Get ready to be moved, inspired, and transformed by the timeless wisdom of Sufism, as embodied by our incredible guest, Dr. Zoha Fazel.

Dr. Fazel started her spiritual studies and practices early with her grandfather. As a young adult, she trained with many spiritual masters to develop self-awareness. Also, she learned about helping others heal through their spiritual energy, discovering the subconscious programming that holds them back and learning to change it and strengthen their connection with their higher power.

She expanded these teachings by going through traditional psychology education methods and received her doctorate in psychology, behavioural analysis and metacognition. She now has more than 20 years of experience in the field. These skills and her spiritual training guide her in her sessions today.

For many years she practiced traditional therapy with her clients and noticed they needed to progress faster than she knew they had the potential to do. Instinctively and through her personal experiences with spiritual practices, she knew therapy alone might not make the impact her clients desired or needed. This propelled her to educate herself on spiritual and energetic modalities further; when she started implementing these methods, she saw huge shifts.

Her passion is to combine her academic and spiritual backgrounds to help people experience and discover their inner light and know the miracles they truly are. Please find Dr. Fazel on her website: www.drzoha.com

EZ Conversations is available on all platforms, including Apple Podcast and Spotify. Remember to subscribe, rate, and share this soul-stirring episode to spread the message of love and unity far and wide.

In this riveting episode of the EZ Conversations Podcast, prepare to embark on a soul-stirring journey as we delve into the profound realm of near-death experiences. Join me as I sit down with psychologist and researcher Dr. Margaret Cochran, who has spent significant time unravelling the mysteries behind these extraordinary encounters.

As our guest expert, Dr. Cochran unveils captivating stories of individuals who have ventured to the brink of the afterlife and returned with a renewed sense of purpose. She shares mind-bending insights into these life-altering moments through extensive research, exploring the depths of human consciousness and spirituality.

These stories push the boundaries of our understanding of life's purpose further. Dr. Cochran and I discuss how, upon experiencing a brush with death, people have undergone a profound transformation, shedding their old selves and discovering a newfound clarity of purpose. From former skeptics to hardened cynics, these near-death experiences have shaken the very foundations of their beliefs, awakening a more profound sense of connection and meaning.

Dr. Cochran guides us through the common themes and patterns that emerge from these experiences, helping us comprehend the universal wisdom they bring. She examines the pivotal role of self-reflection, gratitude, and love in the journey of those who have found their purpose after facing mortality head-on. These tales unravel the extraordinary depths of human resilience and the transformative power of near-death experiences.

Join me on this thought-provoking episode as Dr. Margaret Cochran sheds light on the profound and enigmatic phenomenon of near-death encounters, inviting us to reflect on our lives and search for meaning in the face of mortality. Brace yourself for an awe-inspiring exploration of the mysteries beyond the veil of death, and discover how these profound experiences have propelled individuals toward their true purpose.

Prepare to question your understanding of existence and embark on an unforgettable journey as we venture into this episode's remarkable realm of near-death experiences.

Dr. Cochran is a transpersonal psychologist, licensed clinical social worker, educator, life coach and author with over 25 years of clinical experience. She seamlessly interweaves traditional ego, transpersonal, and energy psychology, Affording her patients every tool possible to achieve their goals and make their dreams a reality.

As quoted by Dr. Barbara Oakley: "The major focus of Dr. Cochran’s work is teaching people how to use their “Whole Brain” in accepting life’s gifts and facing life’s challenges. – Dr. Cochran’s knowledge, not only of psychology, but of a wide-ranging array of topics, is remarkable." Please check out Dr. Cochran's work on her website: www.drcochran.com.

Welcome to another thought-provoking episode of EZ Conversations, my guest in this episode is Sean Parker, and we delved into pressing societal issues. In this episode, we explore false allegations, which have recently captivated public discourse and garnered significant attention. We aim to shed light on the potential harm inflicted on individuals and communities by addressing this complex issue's intricacies and consequences.

In today's digital age, where information spreads like wildfire, and the court of public opinion often presides before a proper investigation, false allegations have become contentious. Accusations of wrongdoing can have far-reaching implications, affecting not only the lives of individuals falsely accused but also the broader fabric of society. We must recognize the gravity of this phenomenon and its potential to tarnish reputations, undermine trust, and perpetuate injustice.

As we embark on this intellectual journey, we aim to dissect the multifaceted nature of false allegations. Our exploration will encompass various dimensions, including the motivations behind making false claims, the ripple effects on the accused and their loved ones, and the overall societal ramifications. By fostering a nuanced understanding of the issue, we strive to foster empathy, critical thinking, and a desire for justice within our listeners.

To comprehend the complexity surrounding false allegations, we must acknowledge that they can arise in various contexts. Whether in sexual assault, workplace misconduct, or high-stakes legal battles, false accusations can wreak havoc on the lives of individuals, regardless of their gender, occupation, or social standing. By shedding light on these diverse scenarios, we hope to challenge preconceived notions and engender a broader conversation about the need for fair and thorough investigations.

One of the most significant challenges associated with false allegations is their lasting impact on the lives of the accused. Individuals who find themselves wrongfully accused often face severe emotional distress, stigmatization, and reputational damage. The psychological toll can be immeasurable as the presumption of innocence erodes and public opinion sways against them. Examining the human toll of false allegations and the long-term consequences they impose on those wrongly accused is essential.

Furthermore, false allegations do not operate in isolation; they have wider societal implications beyond individual cases. The erosion of trust in institutions, the polarization of public opinion, and the potential for a chilling effect on genuine victims coming forward are just a few of the ripple effects that can arise from false claims. By considering the broader implications, we can cultivate a more holistic perspective on false allegations and begin to address the underlying issues that allow them to persist.

Sean Bw Parker (MA) is a British writer, artist and academic in art, cultural theory and justice reform. He lived in Istanbul for ten years until 2014, where

he lectured at Istanbul University and gave a TED talk, Stammering and Creativity; He has published or contributed to several books, won six Koestler Arts awards (including platinum for his play The Wolfstadt-Wire) and a Perrie Lectures essay award in 2019. Parker is the Editor of False Allegations Watch for the Empower the Innocent organization (the University of Bristol affiliated).

He has been published by/in the T.S. Eliot Foundation, Time Out Istanbul, Louder Than War, STAMMA and Cosmopolitan, and appeared at the Brighton Science Festival on NTV Turkey. Rise and BBC Radio Wales. He has interviewed Ed Harcourt, Kristin Hersh, Julie Burchill, Danny Macnamara, Garry Bushell and Ian Broudie, among others, hosted shows by Mark Morriss, The Members and Eat Static at his Seafish venue on the Sussex coast, and was interviewed for a Sky Arts documentary in 2016. He was born in Exeter in 1975.

In this week's episode, I am honoured to welcome back Dr. Natashia Robbins. Natashia is a licensed Marriage & Family Therapist and Coach. She obtained her Master’s and Ph.D. from Purdue University and completed a Postdoctoral Fellowship at the University of Michigan Medical Center. Natashia's research and clinical experience over 16 years has centred around Attachment and Nervous System Regulation. 

In recent years, her focus has broadened to include Somatic Attachment Therapy and Internal Family Systems frameworks. She is also a trained yoga instructor and breathwork facilitator. Natashia owns a private practice where she provides therapy and coaching services for clients in-office and virtually online. 

In this episode, Natashia and I discuss attachment styles. We discuss the attachment styles most people are familiar with and explore the research that led to secure and insecure attachment development. Natashia and I also talk about how people can build secure attachments in their lives, and we share our own experiences of how we have been able to do that.

You can find Natashia on Social Media and online: 

Instagram: @therootedrevolution 

@rootedandguided

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/berootedwell 

Private Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourrootedrevolution 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natashia-robbins-ph-d-419642111 

Therapy Website: www.rootedwellnesstherapy.com 

Coaching Website: www.therootedrevolution.com 

Free Mini-Course: https://www.therootedrevolution.com/mindfulnessbenefitoptin

In this week's episode, I welcome Dr. Victoria Harris. Dr. Harris is an accredited psychotherapist who works with children and adults and is the author of children's books. For her doctorate, she researched creative techniques in psychotherapy supervision. She finds them useful when experiencing a lack of clarity and discomfort and helps with insight. She has a middle-grade book series focusing on the heroine's journey and a picture book that teaches skills to regulate the body/mind. She has worked in many different settings, such as forensic, psychiatric, family services, and private practice, and helped to develop mindfulness videos for a mental health school programme in Ireland. Recently she began a YouTube channel offering guided relaxation.

In this episode, Dr. Harris and I discuss the importance of play for children and the value of engagement. We explore how the lack of space and healthy attachments can adversely impact children and often lead to an inability to emotionally regulate and cope with stressful situations. Dr. Harris and I also talk about the different forms of play children can engage in. We finally talk about the impact of screens on the development of children and the roles parents can play to support children with managing their screen times.

Please find Dr. Harris on Instagram @drvharris and online: at www.drvharris.com

In this week's episode, I welcome Skylar Schock. Skylar is a Northern California native about to graduate with her MFA in Performance from UNLV. You may have seen her perform her stand-up comedy at Jimmy Kimmel's Comedy Club opening for Michael Yo and Matt Iseman. Her recent theatre credits include her one-woman show It's Not My Fault; I'm the Problem at Vegas Theater Company, Helena in A Midsummer Night's Dream and Varya in The Cherry Orchard at the Nevada Conservatory Theatre. She was awarded Special Congressional Recognition for her stand-up comedy project "Laugh Until You Cry". She starred in and produced the short film She Had it Coming, directed by Gedde Watanabe, which was a 25X Film Festival selection. She has also received her BA in Communications from The University of California - San Diego in La Jolla, California.

In this episode, Skylar shares her journey of becoming a stand-up comedian and why she has found stand-up to be powerful in mental health. Skylar and I talk about how sometimes the industry can be difficult on the performer's mental health and what are some things the professionals themselves do for their well-being. We touch on the value of laughter and how stand-up comedy can be therapeutic.

Please find Skylar on Instagram: @sschocking

In this week's episode, I welcome Jayme Minor. Jayme is the purest definition of Sober Fun in Calgary. He is a part owner of both MAXgreen windows and the endorphin garage, taking sober sales to the next level.

He founded oktSOBERfest, Calgary's first drug and alcohol-free music festival.

He will release his first full music album, “ Phoenix Rising,” a self-help musical guide to addiction struggles and mental health issues this year.

You may have also seen him playing the trumpet at the Calgary Flames games as the official TrumpetGuy

Jayme’s vision is to positively impact as many lives as possible during his time on earth by promoting Sober Fun and Self Love.

In this episode, Jayme shares the incident that led him to rehab. He also walks us through his rehab journey and how he embodied his sober self, including returning to the Calgary Flames hockey games as the Trumpet Guy. Jayme also shares all his work in the community to bring awareness around sobriety and supporting others on their journey.

Please check out Jayme on Instagram @jayme_minz

In this week's episode, I was excited to welcome Carlos Collares. Carlos is a medical toxicologist and occupational medicine physician who became a psychometrician, educationalist and entrepreneur. He moved from Brazil to the Netherlands to bring computerized adaptive testing to Dutch medical students, to popularize alternatives to multiple choice questions and to explore cognitive diagnostic modelling, a new approach to assessment for learning. Recently, he left his tenured position at Maastricht University to start his online course to help researchers with quantitative data analysis, educational measurement, and psychological assessment.

In this episode, Carlos walks us through his journey and why he was passionate about becoming an educationalist and entrepreneur. Carlos also describes the challenges we often encounter with testing mechanisms in the education system. Carlos also expands on psychometrics and cognitive diagnostic modelling, and we discuss what people need to look for when reviewing the validity and reliability of research findings. Finally, we cap the episode off with a brief discussion about Artificial Intelligence and some things we can be mindful of on the data side. I was excited to speak with Carlos on this episode because of what I got from it and because his passion for his work is obvious. I also wanted to help understand the nuance behind research work that often is not discussed. There are a lot of discussions where people cite research results; however, it is important to review some of these details to truly determine the validity and reliability of these research findings before we can make conclusions. Please find Carlos online:

Instagram: Psychometricsacademy

TikTok: Pyschometricsacademy

YouTube: Psychometricsacademy

LinkedIn: Psychometricsacademy

Twitter: Pyschometricsa

In this week's episode, I am honoured to welcome Dr. Farid Esack. Dr. Esack is a traditionally trained scholar and a successful academic in modern universities. He has authored many famous written works on Islam and is arguably the world's leading Islamic Liberation theologian. He was appointed as gender equality commissioner by Nelson Mandela. Through the organization, The Call of Islam, Esack played a leading role in the struggle against apartheid. He advocates interreligious solidarity against all forms of injustice and has worked extensively to support Muslims infected with HIV. He is currently Head of the Department of Religion Studies at the University of Johannesburg. In 2018 he was awarded the Order of Luthuli (Silver), South Africa's highest civilian order, for his contribution to scholarship and work for justice.

Dr. Esack has also lectured at many distinguished local and international institutions of higher learning. He is a former Distinguished Mason Professor at the College of William and Mary in Virginia; he also occupied a University Professorship in Ethics, Religion and Society at Xavier University in Ohio. In addition, he served for two years at Harvard University – between the Divinity School and the Faculty of Arts and Sciences – as the William Henry Bloomberg Professor and the Prince Al-Waleed Bin Talal Professor in Contemporary Islam.
Dr. Esack is the author of books such as The Struggle, On Being a Muslim, and Qur'an, Liberation and Pluralism: An Islamic Perspective of Interreligious Solidarity Against Oppression. In this episode, Dr. Esack shares his experience in the apartheid. We discuss what he learned from his experiences and how we can use some of the messages from the liberation movement today, where there is so much division. We also talk about how after building a movement against the apartheid, South Africans had to encounter additional challenges with gender inequality and how they navigated that stage.

I wanted to bring Dr. Esack on this podcast to gain some wisdom and hopefully share that with the listeners. We are currently in a time of polarization and an "us" against "them" mentality in many aspects. I wanted to use this dialogue to demonstrate that we are in this together and perhaps find some common ground through the act of love. I also believe that we have lost sight of the wisdom that sits with people who had come before us and encountered similar challenges, even though those challenges may appear different. Dr. Esack is an individual who possesses that wisdom, and I am grateful I was able to speak with him. Finally, I wanted to highlight that the responsibility of change sits with all of us, and it is something we can take on. I hope this conversation gives us something to think about even if we do not agree with everything.

In this week's episode, I was delighted to host Matt Beaudreau. As a Keynote Speaker, Consultant, and Coach to organizations worldwide, Matt's

clients have ranged from Wells Fargo, Honeywell, and Lockheed Martin to American Eagle, Cedars-Sinai and the United States Air Force. Matt has a reputation as a provocative thought leader in educational and personal development practices. He is a two-time featured TEDx speaker, and he was named Corporate Trainer of the Year at Stanford University, having spoken to over 250,000 people across the world.

In 2017, Matt Beaudreau Founded Acton Academy Placer Schools, schools that utilize the Socratic method with an emphasis on self-direction and cultivating confident, independent young people with a strong sense of character and personal responsibility. He has since helped to open multiple campuses

around the world.

Pulling from his experience in the Acton model, in January of 2021, Matt co-founded Apogee Strong with Tim Kennedy, a mentorship program designed for young men from 12 to 22 to take on challenges presented by men who have come before them to learn to lead. Through mentorship, action, and self-discovery, it is a right of passage so young men can become true leaders. This has blossomed into a mission to bring back classic masculinity in the home and fueled the Apogee Strong Dads Program launch in 2023.

His podcast, The Essential 11, is also geared towards emerging leaders, garnering advice from the world's leaders in business, sports, music and entertainment.

Last but certainly not least, Matt is the founder of the Apogee Strong Foundation, a 501(c)3 that provides scholarships for school, experience, camp, and leadership opportunities for young men worldwide.

In this episode, Matt shares his journey through the schooling system and ending up at the White House and what he noticed was wrong with schools. Matt and I talk about some of the challenges in the education system and what parents can do to have more of an influence on their children's education. We also discuss our personal experiences and why speaking up against the system is hard for teachers.

Please find Matt online and on Instagram: @mattbeaudreau and @apogeeprogram

https://apogeestrongdads.com

https://apogeestrong.com

https://apogeestrongfoundation.org

In this week's episode, I am honoured to welcome David Rast. David is an associate professor of social psychology and leadership at the University of Alberta. David has two primary lines of research drawing extensively on social identity and self-categorization theories and related sub-theories. First, he wants to understand how leaders elicit or incite social and organizational change by going against their group’s norms. Second, he is interested in understanding how leaders can bridge profound intergroup divisions to build a unified no identity and achieve a joint goal.

Other lines of research are related to these two themes, exploring the processes and implications of political identity, minority influence, deviance, intergroup cooperation/conflict, leader rhetoric, and organizational behaviour. David’s work is generously supported by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC). David completed his PhD and Master’s at Claremont Graduate University (USA). He was a Predoctoral Research Fellow for the U.S. Army Research Institute’s Leader Development Research Unit at Fort Leavenworth in Kansas (USA). Before joining the Department of Psychology at the University of Alberta in 2015, he was an assistant professor at the University of Sheffield’s Institute of Work Psychology (UK).

David is the Associate Editor for the Journal of Applied Social Psychology and Consulting Editor for Group Processes and Intergroup Relations. He is appointed to the Editorial Boards of Self and Identity and the Journal of Theoretical Social Psychology. In 2018, David was elected a Society for Experimental Social Psychology Fellow.

In this episode, David and I discuss the aspect of groupthink bias and how our choices and decisions are impacted by the groups we often associate with. We also talk about how leaders use certain messaging to influence people or perhaps even use manipulation. David and I also talk about how we can become more aware of these unconscious biases that may be at play and use critical thinking, which the covid-19 lockdowns prevented and forced people to have strong attachments with their ideas and opinions, which led to divisiveness and polarization we are currently experiencing to a larger extent. We also discussed Donald Trump's impact through some of his messaging during his Presidency.

In this week's episode, I am excited to welcome my friend Sohayl Bhatti. Sohayl is an accomplished engineer working on healthcare projects in the construction industry. He is keenly interested in the nature of consciousness and reality and its intersections with mental health and building a meaningful life. Sohayl's approach to spiritual practice comes from self-discovery and exploration, including travel, immersion in nature, and meditation. He is also interested in using psychedelics as a therapeutic tool.

In this episode, Sohayl shares his ayahuasca journey and explains how he prepared for his trip to the Amazon. He initially talks about attending a silent meditation retreat before deciding to travel to Peru for the full ayahuasca experience. Sohayl also shares how the shamans prepared him for the journey and all the little things he had to do to ensure he was ready. We also discussed what Sohayl got from this experience and everything that came up for him. I really enjoyed recording this episode with Sohayl because it was immersive. It gave me a first-hand understanding of what an ayahuasca journey looks like from someone who experienced it.

In this week's episode, I am excited to welcome Rita Bozi. Rita is a multidisciplinary Somatic Relational trauma-informed facilitator and psychedelic therapist, author and podcast co-host. With twenty-eight years’ experience in the healing arts, she is the director of Brilliant Healing Inc. She works with individuals, couples and groups, leading unique, experiential and creative healing retreats. She is training individuals in her 3 Module program: Somatic Relational Trauma-informed Practices for Medicine-Assisted Therapy and was guest faculty at The Synthesis Institute.

Rita is a colleague of Dr. Gabor Maté and studied his "Compassionate Inquiry” model as an advanced student while on retreat in Mexico. She was mentored by the late visionary Carol-Anne Bickerstaff and is an advanced graduate of Sharon Stanley’s Somatic Transformation method. She has a passion for Attachment Theory, Polyvagal Theory, Authentic Movement, Feldenkrais, Craniosacral Therapy, and self-responsible communication. She is a Consultant Facilitator of the One Brain System, a Certified BodyTalk Practitioner, has a Diploma in Shiatsu Therapy and is a former instructor at Mount Royal College in Calgary and Langara College in Vancouver.

Though she is now a retired dancer and actor she will always be a creator and performer. Her first novel, When I Was Better is in the running for the 2022 Goethe Prize for Late Historical Fiction. Her co-hosted podcast, PUNK Therapy: Psychedelic Underground Neural Kindness, draws on her clinical work with psychedelic medicine in combination with somatic relational trauma-informed practices. She is currently working on a new book, PUNK Therapy; in it, she documents the often complex yet always deeply rewarding journey of client and medicine facilitator and their parallel journeys in healing. Born to Hungarian refugees who fled during the 1956 Revolution, Rita honours and remembers the long line of serfs and peasants who are her ancestors. She is devoted to the work it takes to become a kind and wise human, decolonizing the body and cultivating cherished and cooperative communities.

Rita has found her private practice and creative endeavours to be mutually complementary. She brings love, commitment and curiosity to both, inspiring others to live embodied, creative, trans-parent and soulful lives.

In this episode, Rita and I discuss psychedelic assisted therapy and the benefits this form of therapy can offer. Rita and I explored the difference between the notion of drugs and medicine. We walked through the risks associated with psychedelics and how caution must be exercised with doses, setting, environment and ensuring there is someone who can guide an individual embarking on a journey. We also covered the spiritual aspect of psychedelics as a ritual or ceremony.

Rita can be found:

brillianthealingsystems.com

linktr.ee/ritabozi

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6hN0cXnROdCeExH8ZT737C

In this week's episode, I am excited to welcome Will Spencer. Will is an entrepreneur, traveller, and storyteller. His path has taken him from Stanford University to the Dotcom Boom and through 33 countries on six continents. Along the way, his passion for personal growth led him into the exciting world of men’s personal development and transformation. Today he hosts a podcast called The Renaissance of Men, where he conducts extended interviews with thought leaders, both men and women, working towards a "great reconciliation" of the sexes. Will also hosts weekly online men's groups and offers a 12-week mentorship program where men can make their principles real in their lives. 

In this episode, Will shares why masculinity is on the rise again. He walks through a brief history of the decline of masculinity and why he believes men embody masculinity traits again. Will also explains the difference between masculine and feminine traits and why he believes men cannot have both. We also discuss the transformation men go through to step into their masculinity. While I do not agree with everything Will shares, mainly due to our belief systems, I truly value Will's perspective, and I learned a lot from him in this episode. I also enjoyed our conversation because we need to have more of these discussions.  

Please find Will on Instagram @renofmen. On Twitter @renofmen and his website: www.renofmen.com. You can also check out his podcast, The Renaissance of Men. 

In this week's episode, I am excited to welcome Jill Drader. Jill is a renowned public speaker, award-winning entrepreneur, and professional mentor based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. With over two decades of experience in the personal development industry, Jill has become a trusted advisor and spiritual director to countless individuals and organizations seeking to transform their lives and achieve their goals.

Jill is known for her dynamic and engaging speaking style, and she has delivered keynote speeches and workshops to audiences of all sizes across North America. She has also worked with various clients, including corporations, non-profits, and individuals.

Jill founded OwlSeek in 2022 to bring back her retreats, workshops, digital courses, and spiritual direction work.

Jill is an active member of the Calgary community and has been involved with several charitable organizations. She is co-founder of Struggle Is Your Success, a Calgary non-profit teaching youth entrepreneurial mindset skills to improve their lives.  She is passionate about supporting causes related to mental health and wellness and has been recognized for her contributions to these areas by the provincial government, Distinguished Alumni by the University of Calgary (2016), and awarded Top 40 Under 40.

Jill is a firm believer in the power of connection and community and is dedicated to helping others build meaningful relationships in their personal and professional lives. Whether speaking to a room of hundreds or working one-on-one with a client, Jill’s mission is always the same: to help people live their best lives and reach their full potential.

I have previously talked about the Hero's journey we must embark on and go through various stages. In this episode, I wanted to highlight Jill's journey. 

In this episode, Jill and I discuss her journey through life and some of the choices she made early in life, which ultimately led her to realize the changes she needed to make, especially after some frightening situations. Jill then talks about some of the entrepreneurial ventures she went on while believing in her vision. We then talk about how Jill now mentors others and gives back to the community through her work. 

You can find Jill on Instagram @jilldrader and @owlseekmethod, and www.owlseek.ca

This week, I do another solo episode and talk about self-love. My goal was to expand on some things that prevent us from honouring ourselves and not giving the love to ourselves that we constantly pursue from others. I also share some stuff from my book, The Pursuit of Self-Love: 30 Uplifting Messages and Thoughts, which is due for release in April. 

Expectations, comparisons, connection, solitude, forgiveness and humility, if framed appropriately, can improve the relationship we have with ourselves and build more love for ourselves. We create and set expectations daily in almost every aspect of life. Expectations on outcomes, on our employers, our friends and family and our loved ones. We even set expectations for ourselves. Anytime these expectations are not met, we turn against ourselves.

We also compare parts of our lives, if not everything, with some "ideal" or others without fully knowing everyone's story, further perpetuating our lack of love for ourselves. The only comparison we need to make is with a previous version of ourselves to determine our growth and progress. We also struggle with solitude at times. Finding stillness is uncomfortable and difficult because of what we may find. Therefore, most of us choose to distract ourselves with mundane things. In solitude, we can reflect, introspect and understand ourselves better.

We all crave deeper connections where we can be seen, heard and valued. However, we seek those connections externally, which can manifest as emptiness. However, when we form a deeper relationship with the self, we are in a better place and seek similar connections with others. Often we remain stuck and carry the burden of resentment. The antidote to that is forgiveness. Forgiveness can be for ourselves and others so we can let go and free ourselves. Stepping into love requires us to move past guilt, shame, despair and anger. Finally, humility allows us to keep a level head. Accepting mistakes and always seeking to understand while reminding ourselves that we do not have all the answers allows us to remain humble. Without humility, we block ourselves from self-love.

When we build love for ourselves, we have more to offer to others. Our cups are not empty. As Robin Sharma said: “It is only when you have mastered the art of loving yourself that you can truly love others. It is only when you have opened your own heart that you can touch the heart of others.”

In this week's episode, I am excited to welcome Joelle Maletis. Joelle is a world-renowned international speaker, psychotherapist, and PTSD and trauma expert. Her passion is mentoring, coaching, and supporting people while overcoming struggles that keep them from living a meaningful and balanced life full of fulfillment, joy, and contentment. She helps individuals, couples, and families open the door for growth and understanding by creating a safe space and individualized plans using complementary therapies. Using reflective listening, strategic inquiry, and encouragement, she can provide feedback and interaction that allows clients to make informed, healthy, and compassionate decisions. Her career highlights include being a guest speaker on ABC’s 60 Minutes: Beyond the Headlines, Switch YouTube Live host, HIRE Vets Medallion Award recipient, and several Outstanding Achievement Awards for Top Female Executive.

In this episode, Joelle and I discuss trauma's impact on our bodies. We also discuss polyvagal theory and the impact our vagus nerve has on our overall functioning, especially if we are not operating in homeostasis. We then discuss how trauma can show up in our parasympathetic, sympathetic and autonomic nervous systems, which can be experienced as fight, flight or freeze. 

You can find Joelle online: https://joellerabowmaletis.com/

Instagram @ official.joelle.trauma.therapy

TikTok @joelle.trauma.therapy

Facebook: JoelleRabowMaletisandAssociates

LinkedIn: joellerabowmaletis/

In this week's episode, I welcome Terry Stroud. Terry and I recently connected in our last Master's in Counselling Psychology course and exchanged many thoughtful reflections and ideas regarding family systems therapy. Terry is a mature student who has worked with teens in the past, became an electrician (often called the "site counsellor" by those from other trades), and is now excited to become a psychologist and counsel people of all ages. He is passionate about the LGBTQ+ community, mental health, and doing a touch of crocheting in his free time. Having suffered from a Functional Neurological Disorder (FND), his life has been reshaped into a desire to help people see just how powerful the mind and brain can be on our entire bodies.

In this episode, Terry and I talk about his journey through Functional Neurological Disorder, how he dealt with it and what he learned from it. Terry talks about his mindset and what has helped him through this experience in life. Terry also shares how this entire experience impacted his wife and kids. We also talked about Terry having some realizations regarding intergenerational trauma and how he has applied what we recently learned in our course together. 

You can find Terry on Med-Mastadon under terryjstroud. 

In this week's episode, I was excited to welcome Steve Fader. Steve is someone whom I have become friends with recently, and we have shared some very deep, honest and raw conversations. Steve is an entrepreneur at heart, but most of all, he is a man who has gone through his Hero's Journey and has come back to support others and guide them through their journey. The Hero's Journey has become a theme for me, and I have covered various aspects of it in previous episodes, such as the rites of passage and atonement. 

For Steve, it started with the work ethic instilled in him as a young child, although highly traumatic, and built him into the man he is today.  The lessons about the world he learned through this upbringing were rooted in the fact that the world was not easy. If he wanted more, he would have to fight for it. Throughout the first 30 years of his life, he realized how difficult the world could be to navigate alone, and he chose to make sure he developed into the type of man that would not allow circumstances to dictate his future happiness and success.  

He learned that success isn't as simple as hard work = Success.  Many times he worked hard and achieved nothing but physical and mental anguish. He realized that If he wanted more, he needed to change many aspects of the way he saw the world and build on how he was brought up. The foundation was cracked and stressed but not irreparable. And proper discipline and hard work through personal development were going to be key. There is no growth without change.

Upon achieving success, be it through learning from failure or an actual successful endeavour, it dawned on him that he was here to help people realize that they could also achieve what they wanted. The 'elevator back down' analogy describes trying to elevate the people around you. In martial arts, the saying was 'Iron sharpens Iron, ' which he still tries to live by today. If he can manage his way to the level of success he has achieved, he can perhaps help others realize their potential. That is something that, over time, has become a big focus of his, for better or worse. Over the years, he realized that not everyone wants or is prepared to succeed. He believes that success and failure are equally as substantial. Either of these things can change who you are, better or worse. 

Now, Steve tries his best to put good into the world and works hard to provide for himself and his wife. He ensures his wife, his closest and strongest supporter, is protected and provided with the life most people dream of. He always continues the journey of personal development, as it is the only way he can succeed and continue to have the chance to effect change in the world. Respect and loyalty are two of the main drivers of his intention. He believes that everyone deserves both until they prove they do not. He stays on the journey to succeed and help others succeed because he would like to see as many people as he can become happy in his life. He feels that building an army of successful men with the same ability to effect positive change in the world is part of his calling. He was told he was a monster for so long that he began to believe those things and quickly realized that this might be true to a certain extent. But now, as a monster, he owes himself to control and direct that aspect of his personality for good and not evil. Many times in his life, circumstances could have played out differently.  He chose a different path at several pivotal times in his life, and those choices led him down the road he rides now.

In this week's episode, I was honoured to welcome Darren Smith. Darren was born and raised in Calgary.  After High School, he attended the University of Calgary, where he got a degree in Sociology focusing on criminology, before joining the Calgary Police Service in 2004.  He has since returned to school several times, being trained in management, police leadership, major crime investigations, and incident command. He is currently completing his Master's Degree in Public Safety.

Since joining, Darren has worked in various areas within the service.  He has worked in and supervised patrol, has worked in surveillance units, including the city's Auto Theft Team and the public safety unit, and was deployed to both the G8 in Toronto as well as the Olympics in Vancouver.  At 29, he was promoted to Detective, working on significant crime investigations, including attempted murders, robberies, kidnappings, sexual assaults, abductions, and all crimes against persons. He has been awarded several times by the police service, City, and Province, for the teams and investigations he has led and been a part of.

Darren has a passion for preventing family violence.  He supervised the Domestic Violence Team for many years, teaching domestic violence prevention and investigation to police officers, other agencies, and civilians.  He was later transferred to the Homicide unit, where he worked on several homicide files, many of which involved domestic violence, before moving to the offender management unit.  Darren is currently a Staff Sergeant in the Calgary Police Service, supervising the Child Abuse Unit.  Having supervised and led hundreds of police officers for over a decade, Darren also has a passion for ensuring the mental health of his officers and their families and ensuring they have rewarding careers and lives.

In this episode, Darren and I talk about his passion for being a member of the Calgary Police Services and why he loves to work with people. We also discuss the mental health challenges first responders face and the impact first responders have on our society due to their dedication and the sacrifices they make. 

I am honoured to welcome Dr. Romi Ran to this week's episode. Dr. Ran is a British Clinical Psychologist, Coach and Speaker. She has over 15 years of experience working with individuals across the age span looking to transform their lives. 

Dr. Ran's specializations include:

- Food, Eating and Body Image

- Wellbeing and Conscious Living

- Cultivating Work and Life Satisfaction

- Relationships, Parenting and Family Support

- Improving Mental Health

- Eastern Meditative Practices

She provides 1:1 sessions to clients from across the globe and conducts workshops, webinars, and retreats to some of the world's largest businesses, hotels, and wellness venues across the UK, Europe and the Americas. 

Romi received her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology from the University of Oxford in the UK. Before that, she worked as a Research Coordinator in the Department of Psychology at Harvard University, where she was involved in several research studies on self-harm and suicide. 

Romi has also devoted much of her time and interest to practicing Tibetan Buddhism. Her continual studies and meditative discipline both inform and enhances her professional work. She is especially interested in sharing the often unknown overlap between Eastern and psychological traditions and recognizes the need for both to ensure transformational growth. 

In this episode, Romi and I discuss eating disorders and the relationship people have with food. We also cover the mental health aspect of eating disorders and how people can improve their overall well-being through their relationship with food. 

Please find Dr. Ran on Instagram @drromiran or her website: www.drromiran.com

In this week's episode, I bring on Dr. Stephan Poulter. Dr. Poulter is a renowned Los Angeles-based clinical psychologist in private practice with over thirty years of experience. He brings a unique perspective to his practice and writings as a former law-enforcement officer, seminary graduate and ordained minister. 

Dr. Poulter has authored seven books: The Shame Factor, The Father Factor, The Mother Factor, You Ex-Factor, The Art of Successful Failure and Father your Son. His Professional directive is always to help diagnose, treat and understand the power of our relationship world. His newest book, The Shame Factor, is a culmination of over twenty thousand hours of in-person clinical experience addressing the insidious nature of shame. 

Dr. Poulter works with a wide range of people specializing in the father-son/daughter relationships and our relationship to psychology and spirituality. Dr. Poulter is married and the father of four children.

In this episode, Dr. Poulter and I discuss the beginnings of shame and how shame impacts men in their lives. Dr. Poulter explains how he addresses shame in the various chapter of his book, The Shame Factor. We also discuss some of the ways we can normalize conversations around shame. 

Please find Dr. Poulter on Instagram @dr.stephan_poulter_

stephenpoulter.com

In this week's episode, I welcome Mike Pantile. Mike is a dedicated Christian, husband and father. Mike is a self-employed fitness professional, a personal trainer, an online coach and a gym owner. His life is centred around helping others become better, fitter, stronger versions of themselves, and he wouldn’t have it any other way.

Mike is also passionate about writing on masculinity, marriage and fatherhood. Mike lived a reckless life before becoming a dad, and quickly after his wife gave birth to their daughter, his heart was softened, and his life changed for the better. Through the process of writing and idea exploration - his main objective is not only to help himself become a better Christian, father and husband; but also to help others in this same way. Mike feels like he's on fire for everything he does, and he would like to give all glory to God for the blessings he has.

In this episode, Mike and I talk about forgiving our fathers. We both talk about why we must have forgiveness for others to move forward in our lives and be better parents to our children. The aspect of forgiveness can hold us back and prevent us from genuinely embodying our awakened Self. 

Please find Mike on Instagram @Mikepantile.