We Need To Talk with Paul C. Brunson

“Anxiety Made Me Feel Like I Was Dying” The Creator of The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse

25 snips
Oct 14, 2025
Guest
Charlie Mackesy
In this engaging discussion, Charlie Mackesy, an acclaimed artist and the author of The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse, shares his journey through anxiety, grief, and the transformative power of kindness. He delves into how personal loss influenced his art and helps others feel less alone. Charlie reveals techniques for managing anxiety, including a breathing exercise, and reflects on the healing power of friendship and self-compassion. Listeners will also discover the story behind his Oscar-winning film and the creation of his new book, Always Remember.
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ANECDOTE

Grief Sparked His Art Journey

  • Charlie lost a best friend at 18 and responded by drawing constantly in London to process grief.
  • Those street drawings led to gallery offers and launched his career in art and connection.
INSIGHT

Small Encouragements Have Big Impact

  • Tiny acts of encouragement can profoundly change a person's path and keep them creating.
  • Charlie credits strangers' small kindnesses with sustaining his practice and launching opportunities.
INSIGHT

Characters As Inner Parts

  • The four characters personify parts of the self: curiosity, comfort, wisdom, and woundedness.
  • Their interactions reveal how love and patience transform fear and damaged defense.
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