[Repost] My Nervous System Guru & Friend - Jonny Miller on His Own Pathless Path, Grief, Friendship, David Whyte & More
Jan 30, 2024
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Guest Jonny Miller, a Friend and Nervous System Guru, discusses topics such as curiosity, education, healing after loss, leaning into joy, leaving secure income, starting a podcast, investing in serendipity, mastering the nervous system, and the role of commitment in leading to freedom and depth.
Embracing playfulness and exploring activities that promote creativity and joy can bring greater freedom and aliveness in daily life.
Finding a tribe and building a community of like-minded individuals is crucial for support and understanding on an unconventional path.
Leaning into the edges of comfort zones, reconnecting with childhood joys, and embracing the weird side of the community can lead to a unique sense of joy and playfulness.
Experimentation, trusting intuition, and seeking guidance from trusted individuals are important in finding one's true path.
Deep dives
Leaving the Startup and Embracing Uncertainty
After years of working in the startup world, the speaker reached a point of feeling unfulfilled and lacking growth. Despite the stability and income that came with their job, they decided to leave and explore new opportunities. The decision was both scary and relieving, as they were able to step away from a dull routine and pursue their passion. Although initially uncertain about the future, the speaker found solace in mentorship roles and freelance projects that allowed them to sustain themselves while providing the freedom to experiment and explore. They discovered that by creating space for curiosity and taking risks, they began to find their true path.
The Loneliness of the Pathless Path
Embarking on a pathless path, the speaker experienced moments of loneliness and lack of support. They emphasized the importance of finding a tribe and connecting with like-minded individuals who understand the unique challenges and experiences of this unconventional journey. It was through forming connections, both online and in person, that the speaker began to feel less alone and more supported along their path. They highlighted the significance of building a community of friends and peers who can share insights, experiences, and offer encouragement.
Exploring the Edge and Embracing Playfulness
The speaker discussed the importance of embracing playfulness and leaning into the edges of their comfort zone. They shared personal experiences of reconnecting with childhood joys, engaging in new hobbies, and exploring activities that promote creativity and joy. By letting go of societal expectations and giving themselves permission to be weird or unconventional, the speaker found greater freedom and aliveness in their daily life. They encouraged others to lean into their edges, explore the weird side of their community, and engage in activities that bring out their unique sense of joy and playfulness.
Transitioning from Startup Work to Curious Humans
The speaker transitioned from startup work to focusing on their passion project, Curious Humans. Inspired by their personal experiences with grief and the cathartic nature of writing and sharing, they started Curious Humans as a platform for exploring and discussing deep topics. This eventually led to the creation of a podcast, where the speaker engages in conversations with interesting individuals who have inspired them. They highlight the importance of curiosity and creating meaningful dialogues around various aspects of life, as well as the joy and fulfillment they find in these creative endeavors.
Main Idea 1
The podcast episode explores the concept of living a good life and being a mature, well-rounded individual. The host shares their journey of seeking wisdom and different perspectives through books, podcasts, and conversations. The ability to engage with authors and experts has led to serendipitous opportunities and personal growth.
Main Idea 2
The podcast episode emphasizes the importance of experimentation and trusting one's intuition when trying to find their path. The host and guest discuss the value of exploring different ideas and projects, even if they don't initially feel like the right fit. They highlight the benefit of connecting with trusted individuals for guidance and feedback during the experimental phase.
Main Idea 3
The podcast episode introduces the concept of nervous system mastery, a course that focuses on rising above reactivity and cultivating calm resilience. The host explains the core components of the course, including interoception, self-regulation, and emotional mastery. They discuss the benefits of understanding polyvagal theory and the power of breathwork exercises in regulating the nervous system.
Enroll In The 5th Cohort of Nervous System Mastery: You can get $250 OFF using the code PATHLESS => nsmastery.com
Jonny Miller is a dear friend and I've had the privilege to get to know him closely over the past four years on our own journeys. We've lived in Japan, Indonesia, and Mexico together. When we met we were both single but now are both married in cross-country relationships and have navigated finding work that matters, getting married, and living in foreign countries together.