Exploring the creativity of the human spirit with just five simple questions. Those questions give us a window to explore the journey and life story of people that look like they have it sorted.
Episodes
2 hours ago
2 hours ago
Hey there, my friend! š Welcome to a space where we dive deep into the stories that shape our lives. I'm Paul Harvey, your go-to midlife coach, and today, we're on a journey of reflectionālooking back at how far we've come and the evolution we've experienced.
This shortcast is like a warm cup of tea on a rainy dayācomforting and thought-provoking. We're chatting about the stories we tell ourselves and how they shape our reality. You see, it's not just about where we are but where we've been and how those experiences have molded us into who we are today.
Let me share a bit about my own story. This podcast adventure began back in 2018, sparked by the realization of how crucial it is to live a life full of passion and purpose. Life threw some curveballs my wayālosing my dad, my son's big leap to university, and my wife's Parkinson's diagnosis. Yet, these experiences have been a catalyst for change, teaching me invaluable lessons about resilience and growth.
Now, let's flip the script to you. What's your story? How have you shifted over the years? Have your values taken a turn, and are certain things more important now? It's fascinating to reflect on how we've adapted and evolved. Maybe you faced a challenging situation in the past and handled it differently than you would now. That's evolution, my friend!
Life is a never-ending journey, and each moment is an opportunity for growth. Even when things get tough, remember that you're capable of more than you might think. Look back at your past successes and let them remind you of your strength and resilience. Sometimes, it's not just about thinking differently but taking action to change your situation.
And hey, don't forget about gratitude. When life feels overwhelming, focusing on what you have can bring a sense of peace and perspective. So, take a moment to appreciate the journey, the lessons learned, and the person you've become.
As I ponder my own expansion and where to take this podcast next, I invite you to be part of the conversation. Your thoughts and feedback are invaluable to me, so please reach out and share your ideas. Let's keep this journey going, exploring new paths and stories together.
Thanks for being here, for sharing this journey with me. If you enjoyed this episode, don't hesitate to spread the word. Share it with a friend who might need a little reflection and inspiration in their life. And if you're up for it, leave a review or give us some starsāthey help us reach more amazing people like you.
Until next time, keep evolving and embracing the beautiful journey of life. Catch you later! š
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Life Passion & Business Podcast is about finding answers to lifeās big questions through weekly interviews with guest speakers. The Shortcast is my ongoing commitment to staying inquisitive and passionate about life with whatever is alive for me each week. Follow the links below to discover what else is on offer.
The Five Questions eBook: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/the-five-questions
Focus Coaching: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/focus-coaching/
Support The Podcast:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lifeandpassion
Midlife Survey: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/midlife-challenge/
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4 days ago
4 days ago
In this captivating episode, Paul Harvey sits down with Gavin Fernie-Jones, a man whose life journey from the urban streets of Essex to the picturesque landscapes of the French Alps is nothing short of transformative. Join us as we delve into Gavinās story, exploring his evolution from a reluctant child in the Peak District to a passionate advocate for sustainable living and community connection.
Gavinās early life took an unexpected turn when his family moved to an isolated outdoor activity center in the Peak District. Initially resistant, Gavin soon found himself immersed in the beauty of nature, a shift that laid the foundation for his lifelong love of the outdoors. This connection to nature was further deepened during his college years, where he pursued art, and later, through his travels and experiences in the French Alps.
Now settled in the French Alps, Gavin has spent over two decades integrating his passion for outdoor activities with a growing awareness of the environmental impact of consumerism. His journey took a pivotal turn when he launched an outdoor clothing business, revealing the staggering levels of waste in the industry. This realization sparked a personal journey, and he started a community project that emphasizes repair, reuse, and conscious consumption.
Discover how Gavinās initiative, One Tree at a Time, has led to a community-driven revolution where 75% of outdoor clothing in his village is repaired and reused. Learn about the Reaction Collective, an international movement empowering local communities to make a difference while having fun. Gavin shares his insights on living a life in harmony with nature, free from the constraints of consumer culture and societal pressures.
Towards the end of the episode, Gavin introduces us to Citizen Friday, a campaign encouraging individuals to share, repair, and get some fresh air as an alternative to the consumer frenzy of Black Friday. Listen in to find out how you can participate in this movement and make a meaningful impact in your own life.
This episode is more than just a conversation; it's a call to action. Join Paul and Gavin as they explore the profound shifts we can make in our lives and communities by embracing simplicity, sustainability, and the true essence of being a citizen of the world.
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Further details about this podcast along with my Guestās website and social links are all available at:
https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/gavin-fernie-jones-nature-and-community/
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Life Passion & Business is dedicated to exploring what it takes to be Extraordinary, to face challenges and rejoice in the opportunities they bring, and expand our vision into new ways of thinking and living.
There is a lot to gain from listening to other peopleās stories, however the real work begins by taking action in your own life.
For full details of Events, Resources and Services visit:
www.lifepassionandbusiness.com
Support For Podcasters:
Running a podcast is fun, but it takes time and dedication. Whenever you enjoy a podcast please share your appreciation with comments, likes, shares and reviews. It helps other listeners find good content and supports the content creators and their guests.
Another way you can support the Life Passion & Business podcast is with small donations: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lifeandpassion
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Sunday Oct 06, 2024
Sunday Oct 06, 2024
In this bite-sized episode, I'm diving into the world of sentiment and baggage. You know, all those things we collect over the years that start to weigh us down. Trust me, I get it ā my wardrobe's got clothes I haven't worn in ages, and my garage? Let's not even go there!
This conversation is all about understanding why we hold onto stuff and, more importantly, how to let it go. It's not just about clearing physical space; it's about freeing up energy and creating room for new possibilities. Remember that Marie Kondo's question, "Does it bring me joy?" It's time to really think about that.
I've been helping a friend downsize recently, and wow, the things we accumulate over decades! It's been a real eye-opener, and it's made me reflect on my own habits. So, I'm sharing some tips and tricks on how to tackle your own clutter, one step at a time. Whether it's your wardrobe or that drawer full of who-knows-what, there's a sense of freedom in letting go.
And hey, it's not just about the physical stuff. Next week, we're delving into the internal baggage we all carry. Because let's face it, we've got some head trash to clear out too!
I'd love to hear your thoughts on this journey of decluttering. How are you doing with your stuff? Could you see yourself releasing some of it? If this episode resonates with you, share it with a friend who might need a little nudge too. Let's make space for new adventures together!
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Life Passion & Business Podcast is about finding answers to lifeās big questions through weekly interviews with guest speakers. The Shortcast is my ongoing commitment to staying inquisitive and passionate about life with whatever is alive for me each week. Follow the links below to discover what else is on offer.
The Five Questions eBook: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/the-five-questions
Focus Coaching: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/focus-coaching/
Support The Podcast:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lifeandpassion
Midlife Survey: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/midlife-challenge/
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Wednesday Oct 02, 2024
Wednesday Oct 02, 2024
The power of laughter and worms. A great conversation from 2021 with Cathy Nesbitt a vermiculture champion and laughter ambassador.Ā She is saving the earth with compost and saving people with laughter.Ā
As with all of the conversations, they never date.Ā
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Todayās guest is Cathy Nesbitt who has has been a vermiculture champion for over 20 years (thatās worm composting to you and me).
Being a lady of a certain age, her working life started with a few options: Teacher, Nurse or Secretary. She chose the latter and had a 20-year career as a secretary and PA working for some prestigious companies. Whilst this work was fine, it was not her passion. The shift to something more inspiring began when she volunteered at a nursing home. She became interested in Psychology and was inspired to study, so she joined a night school class whilst continuing to work full-time at her day job.
After finishing her qualification, she sought an opportunity to use and explore her new skills and found a place to work with challenged adults.
āThis is why I was put on earth to be a social worker. Until I met management, I did not expect the politics.ā
Little actions can lead to big changes, and in the 1990s, most developed countries were having problems with waste. Canada was no exception. Landfills in Toronto had become full, and trash was being exported to US landfill sites. Looking to do her bit, Cathy started composting at home and encouraged others to do the same.
A work injury in 2001 led Cathy to consider new options, and she decided to start her own business. That was the start of what has now been a 20-year journey with composting and worms.
Throughout the years, Cathy has won over 20 awards for green business and community support composting. She has published over 300 articles and has been on TV and radio, both local and national.
Not one to stand still, Cathy is also a certified Laughter Yoga Leader, Teacher, and Ambassador. So, her life has a theme of worms, bean sprouts, and laughter. Her mission is to promote simple solutions for todayās challenges.
Cathyās website URL & Social URLs are:
http://www.cathyscomposters.com/
http://www.cathyssprouters.com/
http://www.cathysclub.com/
https://www.facebook.com/CathysCrawlyComposters
https://twitter.com/Squirm
https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathynesbitt/
https://www.youtube.com/user/rhgn2112
Sunday Sep 29, 2024
Sunday Sep 29, 2024
Ā Have you ever wondered if you're looking in the right place? This episode is all about changeāabout shifting your perspective and focus. As we transition from summer to autumn, I've noticed the temperature in my house dropping. At 18 degrees, it feels chilly now, but in the winter, 18 degrees feels just fine. It's all about what we're used to, right?
This shift in focus is something I see often in coaching conversations. People frequently think they want something, but it's not what they actually need. Take money, for example. Sometimes, I look at my bank balance and feel secure, and other times, the same number makes me feel uneasy. It's all about perspective and how we view our resources.
One of my clients recently sought support from a friend for a particular problem. It became clear that the friend couldn't provide the needed support, but within an hour, the client had a new idea that could solve the problem. By looking in a different place, they found a new opportunity and took action. It was a fantastic result, and the universe seemed to align everything perfectly.
My wife had a similar experience during a meditation session. She noticed the keys on her keyboardāshift, enter, backspaceāand realized that shifting our perspective allows us to re-enter situations with new capacities. Fresh thinking and new ideas often come from looking at things differently.
Einstein once said you can't solve a problem with the same thinking that got you there. So, if you have a recurring problem or something you'd like to change, try looking at it from a new perspective. Sometimes, this means making difficult decisions, but freedom often comes after those tough choices.
Remember, life is an adventure, and you are the principal character. Seeing yourself as the hero of your story can fundamentally change how you treat yourself and your life. So, where are you looking? Are you looking in the right place to solve your current problems?
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For more resources and to start your focus coaching journey, visit lifepassionandbusiness.com. Until next time, thanks for being here with me.Ā
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Links to focus coaching are below.Ā
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Life Passion & Business Podcast is about finding answers to lifeās big questions through weekly interviews with guest speakers. The Shortcast is my ongoing commitment to staying inquisitive and passionate about life with whatever is alive for me each week. Follow the links below to discover what else is on offer.
The Five Questions eBook: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/the-five-questions
Focus Coaching: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/focus-coaching/
Support The Podcast:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lifeandpassion
Midlife Survey: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/midlife-challenge/
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Wednesday Sep 25, 2024
Wednesday Sep 25, 2024
Hello, friends! š
Welcome back to Life, Passion, and Business. I'm your host, Paul Harvey. Today, I have an incredible story to share with you, one that might just inspire you to rethink your path in life. Ever wondered if youāre truly following your calling? Or questioned whether you even have one? Youāre not alone.
This show was last aired nearly 2 years ago, and the story is just as relevant.Ā
In 2022,Ā I was approached by Richard Blank, a fascinating individual with a story thatās anything but ordinary. Richard was set on the Ivy League path to a career in medicine or law, but he knew deep down that wasnāt his true calling. Instead, he took a bold step to major in Spanish. Fast forward to today, Richard runs a highly successful call center business in Costa Rica and couldnāt be happier with his life choices. š
What makes Richardās story so unique is that he didnāt reach out to sell anything. His only aim was to share his journey and encourage others to explore their true calling. Before we dive into our conversation, remember to check out our website at life passion and business.com. We offer focused coaching that can help you find your path in life. More on that at the end of the program!
Now, let's get to the heart of todayās episode. Richard Blank, a native of Philadelphia, grew up with a plan laid out for him. Yet, even as a young adult, he knew he needed to be inspired by his career. His journey took him to the University of Arizona, where he majored in communication and Spanish. By 21, he was studying in Madrid, embracing the Spanish language and culture.
On returning to the U.S., Richardās bilingual skills opened doors in Spanish television and sales. But his life took a pivotal turn at 27 when he moved to Costa Rica to train employees at a call center. He fell in love with the industry, the country, and its culture. By his mid-30s, Richard started his own call center, growing it steadily to now employ over 150 people. And guess what? He also has a passion for collecting vintage pinball machines! š®
Our conversation isnāt about telemarketing. Itās about Richardās life philosophy, his belief that everyone has a calling, and how heās giving back to his adopted community. He wants you to find your calling just as he did. So, letās dive into our chat with Richard Blank!
Richardās story is a testament to following your passion, no matter how unconventional it might seem. He shares valuable insights on leadership, empathy, and creating a positive work environment. If youāre ever in Costa Rica, donāt forget to look him up. š“
Thank you for joining us on this journey. For more inspiring stories and resources, visit life passion and business.com. If this episode resonated with you, please consider giving us a five-star review and sharing it with a friend. Your support helps others find our podcast.
Until next time, keep exploring your passions and living your best life!
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Further details about this podcast along with my Guestās website and social links are all available at:
https://www.lifepassionandbusiness.com/richard-blank-explore-your-calling
Life Passion & Business is dedicated to exploring what it takes to be Extraordinary, to face challenges and rejoice in the opportunities they bring, and expand our vision into new ways of thinking and living.
There is a lot to gain from listening to other peopleās stories, however, the real work begins by taking action in your own life.
For full details of Events, Resources and Services visit:
www.lifepassionandbusiness.com
Support For Podcasters:
Running a podcast is fun, but it takes time and dedication. Whenever you enjoy a podcast please share your appreciation with comments, likes, shares and reviews. It helps other listeners find good content and supports the content creators and their guests.
Another way you can support the Life Passion & Business podcast is with small donations: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lifeandpassion
Sunday Sep 22, 2024
Sunday Sep 22, 2024
For the Sunday reflection, a question was asked of me this morning.Ā Ā
Are you focusing on the light or the dark? It's a good one, right? What do you notice first in the world around you? The bad bits or the good bits?
Our world is complex, full of conflict, but also overflowing with beauty and wonder. The magic lies in where we choose to place our attention. When we focus on appreciating the good, we feel better about ourselves and the world we live in. And when we feel good, we can do good, be good, and change the not-so-good around us.
This episode is about mastering our thoughts instead of being slaves to them. Yes, we can see the negativity and the ugliness, but we can also open our eyes and hearts to the beauty. It's not just about seeing; it's about being and doing. When we act from a place of generosity and openness, we feel good about ourselves and positively impact the world around us.
Finding joy in everything we do, even in mundane tasks like cleaning a toilet, can bring satisfaction. Knowing that someone else will appreciate what you've done can bring a sense of joy. Giving our best to the world attracts the best in return. So, how can you start this journey? It's a bit like practising gratitude. When you catch yourself finding fault, consciously look for beauty. Ask yourself, "Where is the beauty in this?"
Today marks the autumn equinox in the UK, a time of equal day and night. While the nights will start drawing in, there's a unique beauty in the autumn colors and the freshness in the air. There's beauty in change, even when it means saying goodbye to summer. For our friends in the southern hemisphere, it's the first day of spring, a time to look forward to summer.Ā
We have a choice in how we view the world. The media often highlights the dark side because it grabs our attention, playing on our innate need for security. But we need to guard against this and choose to see the light. There's always something to be joyful about, even in the greatest challenges. It could be as simple as a good cup of coffee or a stranger's smile.
By expressing the best of ourselves and acknowledging the best in the world, we become role models for others. We help them see the beauty they might have missed. So, give it a try. There's no magic tool, just a conscious choice to look for the good. If you find it difficult, keep lookingāit's there. Nature is a great place to find beauty and wonder; it carries on regardless of our actions.
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Wednesday Sep 18, 2024
Wednesday Sep 18, 2024
Hello, this is your host Paul Harvey. Today, I want to take you back to January 2022 when I had a truly fascinating conversation with Di Manuel. Trust me, this episode is one for the books!
We dive into the depths of change, the struggle with addiction, and dealing with complicated feelings. Di was in a dark place until one powerful question from his wife changed everything:Ā This question was pivotal for Di, leading him on a path of self-discovery and transformation.
This episode explores the themes of fitness, family, faith, finances, and funĀ
However, the journey wasn't without its pitfalls. Di became known as "Fun Guy Di," always the life of the party but dependent on alcohol and drugs to maintain his extroverted persona. The turning point came when his wife, Christy, sat him down and asked that life-altering question. From that moment, Di committed to a year without drinking, seeking support through therapy and personal development. This decision led to a complete transformation, not just in his personal life but also in his professional endeavours.
Today, Di is a TEDx speaker, an author, and the creator of Mentorship Mondays, a safe space for men to connect and support each other. His story is one of rebirth, travel, writing, and more. It's a testament to the power of change and the impact of asking the right questions.
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Further details about this podcast along with Daiās website and social links are all available at:
http://www.lifepassionandbusiness.com/dai-manuel-breaking-habits
Life Passion & Business is dedicated to exploring what it takes to be Extraordinary, to face challenges and rejoice in the opportunities they bring, and expand our vision into new ways of thinking and living.
There is a lot to gain from listening to other peopleās stories, however the real work begins by taking action in your own life.
For full details of Events, Resources and Services visit:
www.lifepassionandbusiness.com
Support For Podcasters:
Running a podcast is fun, but it takes time and dedication. Whenever you enjoy a podcast please share your appreciation with comments, likes, shares and reviews. It helps other listeners find good content and supports the content creators and their guests.
Another way you can support the Life Passion & Business podcast is with small donations: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lifeandpassion
Sunday Sep 15, 2024
Sunday Sep 15, 2024
What do you do with a missed goal?Ā
Todayās reflection is all about dealing with the moment you realize you might not hit that goal youāve been aiming for. Itās a tough pill to swallow, right? Whether itās disappointment, shame, or just plain frustration, we all have ways of coping.
Let me share a personal story. I had big plans to run a marathon this October. I've been training hard, but itās been a year full of little setbacks, especially with my left knee. Despite my efforts, my long runs have been leaving me completely wiped out. The harsh reality hit me ā running 42.8k might be a stretch too far for my current condition.
So, I had to make a tough decision. I wonāt be running the marathon as planned. Instead, Iām looking at other races on the same day, something more manageable for my body right now. Itās disappointing, especially since Iāve told everyone about my marathon plans. But Iām trying to see it as taking the adult path ā recognizing the reality of the situation and adjusting accordingly.
You see, goals are like signposts on our journey, not the end-all-be-all. The real magic is in the journey itself. Training for a marathon, or any goal, teaches us so much along the way. And sometimes, we need to reevaluate and adjust our plans to stay healthy and move forward.
This got me thinking about how we handle unmet goals in life. Do we see them as failures, or as valuable information for our next steps? Thereās no right or wrong here ā itās all about perspective. Each setback is a chance to learn and grow.
Iād love to hear how you deal with goals you canāt quite reach. Do you see them as failures, or just part of the journey? Reach out and letās chat about it! And donāt forget to check out the resources on my website at lifepassionandbusiness.com. Thereās a lot there to help you on your journey, including the powerful method of focus coaching.
Thanks for being here with me. Your time and attention mean the world. Catch you next time!
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Wednesday Sep 11, 2024
Wednesday Sep 11, 2024
Following the Shortcast at the weekend, where we explored the power of Self-Talk, we touched on the issue of shame and guilt, which reminded me of my conversation with Lois Hollis, a woman in her 70s who achieved so much, yet that early trauma came back to haunt her.Ā Ā
It is a story of transcending the past and moving towards the future, and well worth a review.Ā
This show was first aired in July 2022
Where are you in life with the big emotional bricks like shame and guilt? Do you reflect on past events or experience these feelings in current relationships? For most of us, this stuff is part of our makeup; we are unaware of it. Having listened to my guest on the show today, I became conscious of my shame and guilt for past actions and how I have used shame in my family interactions.Ā
My guest on the show has always been a pioneer. Lois Hollis is in her late 70s, deeply connected to God and her faith, and driven by a calling that started in childhood. Her early years were tough. With physical abuse at home, she received multiple head and neck injuries. One of these occasions led to a near-death experience where she received her calling.Ā At church, she was preached into guilt and shame to find her sins; the teachers at school punished her for dyslexia.
Her solace was tap dancing. She loved tap dancing, and she tells me it was tap dancing that pulled her through. It worked because she finished high school, applied to nursing school at the University of Pennsylvania, and received a scholarship.
At college, Lois earned an RN and BSN nursing degree and went on to a job at Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia. Her creative approach to problems was recognised, and she was invited to join a programme that went on to develop the first Kidney Hemorrhage Units in the USA in 1966.
She became a pioneer of the kidney dialysis foundation, stayed in the programme for ten years, leaving it behind to have a family, and was blessed with three daughters.Ā
Then life took a turn. Now in her 40s, she experienced headaches that became migraine that developed into a range of other life-threatening problems. It reached a point where she was told she would not live beyond her 50s.Ā Ā
Those childhood traumas and physical abuse had a price it was discovered there were broken bones in her neck and back. Our conversation concerns physical, mental, and spiritual recovery and a wonderfully inspiring journey.
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Today Lois Hollis works with shame and guilt as an independent study. She is bringing new knowledge of these misunderstood conditions. She is a filmmaker, author of 3 books, a speaker and a coach.
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Further details about this podcast along with my Guestās website and social links are all available at:
https://www.lifepassionandbusiness.com/lois-hollis-beyond-shame
Life Passion & Business is dedicated to exploring what it takes to be Extraordinary, to face challenges and rejoice in the opportunities they bring, and expand our vision into new ways of thinking and living.
There is a lot to gain from listening to other peopleās stories, however the real work begins by taking action in your own life.
For full details of Events, Resources and Services visit:
www.lifepassionandbusiness.com
Support For Podcasters:
Running a podcast is fun, but it takes time and dedication. Whenever you enjoy a podcast please share your appreciation with comments, likes, shares and reviews. It helps other listeners find good content and supports the content creators and their guests.
Another way you can support the Life Passion & Business podcast is with small donations: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lifeandpassion
Sunday Sep 08, 2024
Sunday Sep 08, 2024
Harnessing your self-talk. Have you ever thought about that little voice in your head? You know, the one that pops up most randomly, whether youāre doing something you maybe shouldnāt be or just indulging yourself. Well, guess what? We all have it, and itās more influential than you might think!
In this bite-sized episode, Iām diving into the world of our inner voices. Inspired by the work of Ethan Cross, a psychology professor at the University of Michigan, weāll explore how this internal chatter shapes our lives. From reminding us to pick up milk at the store to holding us back with guilt and shame, our inner voice can be both a friend and a foe.
Iāll share some personal stories, like how my fatherās inner voice replayed old regrets, and offer insights into how you can transform this voice into a positive force. Weāll discuss practical tools from Ethanās book "Chatter" and techniques like distancing yourself from negative thoughts and using self-talk to boost your confidence.
Join me on this reflective journey, and letās learn to make friends with our inner voice. When we do, we unlock a powerful ally who can help us achieve our goals and live a more fulfilling life. And hey, if youāve got your own stories or want to chat more about this, feel free to reach out. Iād love to hear from you!
If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend. And donāt forget to check out our website, Life Passion and Business, for more fantastic resources. Thanks for tuning in, and Iāll catch you next time. All the best!
As always, thank you for joining me on this journey. Your comments and feedback mean the world to me. Feel free to reach out through my website at lifepassionandbusiness.com for resources, coaching, and more.|
If you found this shortcast helpful, please share it with a friend.Ā
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Life Passion & Business Podcast is about finding answers to lifeās big questions through weekly interviews with guest speakers. The Shortcast is my ongoing commitment to staying inquisitive and passionate about life with whatever is alive for me each week. Follow the links below to discover what else is on offer.
The Five Questions eBook: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/the-five-questions
Focus Coaching: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/focus-coaching/
Support The Podcast:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lifeandpassion
Midlife Survey: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/midlife-challenge/
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Sunday Sep 01, 2024
Sunday Sep 01, 2024
Hey there! Welcome to another life, passion, and business shortcast with me, Paul Harvey, your friendly midlife coach. Over the years, I've had the pleasure of chatting with hundreds of folks, and one thing has become crystal clear: our stories shape our lives. Everything we do, feel, or experience is based on the narratives we create.
Today, weāre reflecting on mindfulness. Have you noticed how itās everywhere these days? But what does it actually mean, and is there any real value to it? Mindfulness has seeped into my life over the past five or six years, and I find it incredibly valuable. Itās often linked with Buddhism, emphasizing awareness and being present. However, I recently listened to a podcast called "People I Mostly Admire" with Steve Levitt, where he spoke with Ellen Langer, a Harvard professor known as the mother of mindfulness. Sheās been working on this for about 40 years!
Ellenās take on mindfulness is fascinating. Unlike the meditative practices from Buddhist traditions, her version is about being present in your daily life. Itās about being mindful of the moment, which is the foundation of all my coaching. Our brains naturally tend to disengage to save energy, like when we tune out during a familiar drive to work. Ellen advocates for being more mindful of our actions, which makes us more alive. She conducted a groundbreaking experiment where elderly men lived as if it were 1959, and their health improved dramatically. Itās worth checking out her work, especially her new book, "The Mindful Body: Thinking Our Way to Chronic Health."
This concept of mindfulness resonates deeply with me, especially when Iām running. If I focus on my goal with confidence, I achieve it with ease. Doubt, however, makes everything harder. This principle applies to all areas of life. By seeing the world with fresh eyes, we keep ourselves young and vibrant. Ellen suggests noticing new things about people and places to keep our minds engaged and alive. Her insights remind us that being mindful opens up a world of possibilities.
So this week, why not give mindfulness a try? See how it changes your perspective and brings the world to life. And if you want more inspiration, check out the podcast episode with Jeannie Blasberg. Her story is full of attention to detail and rich experiences.
As always, thank you for joining me on this journey. Your comments and feedback mean the world to me. Feel free to reach out through my website at lifepassionandbusiness.com for resources, coaching, and more.|
If you found this shortcast helpful, please share it with a friend.Ā
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Life Passion & Business Podcast is about finding answers to lifeās big questions through weekly interviews with guest speakers. The Shortcast is my ongoing commitment to staying inquisitive and passionate about life with whatever is alive for me each week. Follow the links below to discover what else is on offer.
The Five Questions eBook: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/the-five-questions
Focus Coaching: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/focus-coaching/
Support The Podcast:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lifeandpassion
Midlife Survey: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/midlife-challenge/
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Thursday Aug 29, 2024
Thursday Aug 29, 2024
When I think about my guest on the show, I think of personal leadership, commitment, and making a difference. She inspires me on at least two, possibly three, counts because she is an athlete, a novelist, and a regenerative farmer. I recognise a fellow polymath.
As an only child, Jeanne Blasberg spent a lot of time alone. Her parents gave her a lot of independence, and she credits this time with igniting her love for storytelling and nurturing her creativity.
To this day, she can juggle and close up magic.Ā
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Heading college, she went for the humanities, with American Studies, so you would never have guessed she would end up on Wall Street as a baby banker. That means the grunt worker for the banking industry.
It has served her well in writing, her work in nonprofits, and now, her work at the regenerative farm.
Banking in the 1980s was volatile, so it was worth taking when a job opportunity came up in the same city as her husband's career move. Sinsinattie was a bit of a jump from New York, but her timing was good, as the bank that she left was taken over and effectively closed.
The new job was a challenge, but opened opportunities.Ā Ā
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After her first child, the family moved back to Boston. The skills she gained from that job led to writing case studies for Harvard Business School. Now a full-time Mum, she competed in athletics, Worked in non-profits, and held the Chair of US Squash. Somewhere in that list, she found the time to read and explore her creativity in writing groups, and the ideas for her first novel arrived. Ā
That book was published in 2017 and called āEdenā and followed in 2019 by āThe Nineā
This is a lovely conversation with a woman who is a polymath. She can turn her attention to anything and make it happen. She is a deep thinker and has many tools for living a good life.
We cover all of the usual questions, including why, when most people are looking to retire, she and her husband have effectively gone back to school to learn how to work the land. However, she is clearly passionate about wellness, the food system, and the healing aspect of nature because it inspires her writing. Just 18 months back, they bought a 420-acre regenerative farm in SW Wisconsin called Flynn Creek Farm.
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In April this year, she released her third novel, DAUGHTER OF A PROMISE; she co-chairs the Boston Book Festival and serves on the Executive Committee of GrubStreet, a preeminent creative writing centre in Boston.Ā Of course, she is the CEO of Flynn Creek Farm.
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Further details about this podcast along with my Guestās website and social links are all available at:
https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/jeanne-blasberg-author-and-regenerative-farmer/
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Life Passion & Business is dedicated to exploring what it takes to be Extraordinary, to face challenges and rejoice in the opportunities they bring, and expand our vision into new ways of thinking and living.
There is a lot to gain from listening to other peopleās stories, however the real work begins by taking action in your own life.
For full details of Events, Resources and Services visit:
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Another way you can support the Life Passion & Business podcast is with small donations: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lifeandpassion
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Sunday Aug 25, 2024
Sunday Aug 25, 2024
Do you want to change something, or are you struggling with a change that you do not like? On today's shortcast, we dive into the topic of changeāhow much we crave it, resist it, and navigate through it.
Ever feel stuck in a rut, wanting change but not knowing where to start? Or maybe you're facing changes you didn't ask for, and you're struggling to adapt. You're not alone! We'll explore the illusion of control, the importance of resilience, and how to find effortless ease in pursuing your goals. š¤ļø
Join me as I reflect on personal stories, like my battle with a messy garage, and share tips on how to overcome the resistance to change. Whether it's a job that no longer fulfils you or just the clutter in your life, we'll find ways to push through with kindness and self-love.
Have you got thoughts on this topic? I'd love to hear from you!
If you find this episode helpful, don't forget to share it with a friend. Thanks for tuning in, and I'll catch you next time! š§
For more resources and to start your focus coaching journey, visit lifepassionandbusiness.com. Until next time, thanks for being here with me.Ā
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Links to focus coaching are below.Ā
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Life Passion & Business Podcast is about finding answers to lifeās big questions through weekly interviews with guest speakers. The Shortcast is my ongoing commitment to staying inquisitive and passionate about life with whatever is alive for me each week. Follow the links below to discover what else is on offer.
The Five Questions eBook: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/the-five-questions
Focus Coaching: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/focus-coaching/
Support The Podcast:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lifeandpassion
Midlife Survey: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/midlife-challenge/
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Wednesday Aug 21, 2024
Wednesday Aug 21, 2024
Today, we have a special tribute episode dedicated to a remarkable individual, Will Pye, also known as the Gratitude Man, who left us earlier this year.
Join me as we revisit a heartfelt conversation from 2020, where Will shared his incredible journey of radical gratitude, spiritual exploration, and overcoming life's toughest challenges. From battling depression to triumphing over a brain tumour, Will's story is a testament to the power of focus, accountability, and unwavering positivity.
We'll delve into the profound synchronicities that shaped his path, his transformative experiences with various spiritual practices, and the wisdom he gained along the way. This episode is filled with humour, deep insights, and a whole lot of inspiration.
So, grab a cosy spot, maybe a cup of tea, and let's honour Will Pye's legacy together. And hey, if you find value in this podcast do share it with a friend.
Enjoy the episode and remember, gratitude can truly transform your life. š
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