

The ikario Podcast: human thriving in the modern world
Shane Melaugh
The world is noisy, complicated and overwhelming, but you can learn to surf the chaos. On this podcast, we explore what it takes to break free from digital distractions, addictions, social isolation and everything else keeping us down in the modern world. Learn how to become more capable, build (and stick with) good habits and become a force to be reckoned with.
The ikario podcast is hosted by Shane Melaugh and produced with the help of the ikario team.
The ikario podcast is hosted by Shane Melaugh and produced with the help of the ikario team.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Sep 22, 2025 • 23min
sex, death & money - growth happens in the shadows
Dive into the shadows of sex, death, and money to uncover profound personal growth. The discussion reveals how cultural pressures create inner turmoil around these topics. From battling sexual shame and addiction to confronting mortality, listeners are guided through transformative experiences. Financial relationships are redefined, highlighting gratitude and mindful spending. With practical steps offered, the journey encourages facing fears directly where the most growth is found, offering a pathway to deeper healing and self-awareness.

Sep 12, 2025 • 20min
The World is Ready for a New Way to Communicate
Explore the hidden manipulation in common communication tactics. Discover the pitfalls of people-pleasing and Machiavellian strategies that stem from deep fears. Learn about integrity-based communication, a method prioritizing authenticity and truthfulness. This approach fosters genuine connections in both personal and business contexts, promoting better outcomes for all involved. Dive into practical examples that show how communicating with integrity can transform relationships and enhance overall well-being.

Sep 2, 2025 • 17min
The path to success is made of obstacles.
Do you want more success, more happiness, better relationships, more growth for your business? Whatever your goal is, there is one universal truth about how to get from where you are to where you want to go.In this video, we explore how obstacles are not hindrances to success but essential stepping stones on the path to achieving your goals. From entrepreneurship to personal relationships, overcoming three types of obstacles—information gaps, skill deficits, and emotional challenges—paves the way for growth. Learn strategies for identifying and tackling these obstacles head-on to unlock your full potential. Join the conversation and apply these principles to transform your life.My deep dive into how to unpack and process emotionally difficult obstacles: https://youtu.be/r5sAC67ij-8Learn the Introspective Writing Technique: https://shanemelaugh.com/iw/A primer on Introspective Writing: https://youtu.be/XRzGthevzTsChapters:00:00 Intro01:14 Entrepreneurship Example02:31 Information Obstacles (Easy)03:50 Skill Problems05:17 Emotional Obstacles (this is where you get stuck)06:57 How to Turn Obstacles Into Stepping Stones09:33 What to Do When it Feels Overwhelming11:33 More Resources12:37 There's Always a Next Rung on the Ladder13:48 How I made 10 years of progress in 1 year16:06 The Principle is Always the Same

Sep 2, 2025 • 17min
How I Healed My Attachment Style (avoidant to secure)
In terms of attachment styles, I used to be a textbook avoidant. If you've ever wondered if it's possible to heal your attachment style and go from wounded to securely attached, today's episode is for you.Spirituality is secure attachment to reality: https://open.substack.com/pub/intimatemirror/p/spirituality-is-secure-attachmentWhat it's like to be securely attached: https://youtu.be/hYMVbL-JkQEThe most powerful tool for shifting your mindset: https://youtu.be/XRzGthevzTsIn this video, I share my transformative journey from being deeply avoidant to securely attached. Discover the pivotal idea that allowed me to heal: 'failure is permitted.' Learn about my three-layer approach, addressing my relationship with myself, others, and life itself. Dive into the profound shifts this mindset brought in managing personal, relational, and global scopes of life. Letting go of the fear of failure has brought immense peace and growth. Chapters: 00:00 Intro01:02 It's not just relationships02:06 The Big Idea02:48 Many Layers of Fear & Resistance03:45 Healing is Letting Go04:12 The Ideal Life is an Illusion06:25 Why We Hold on To Judgements07:36 I am also people08:34 Finding Safety in Relationships09:50 How I Reframed Relationship Failure11:31 Stop Trying to Save the World13:44 Be the Starfish Guy15:34 It's all the same insecurityJoin my newsletter: https://shanemelaugh.com/newsletter/

Sep 1, 2025 • 21min
What Secure Attachment Actually Feels Like
Transforming from avoidant to secure attachment unfolds in a compelling personal journey. The speaker shares how relationships shifted from stressful to sources of peace. Key insights reveal the mindset changes necessary for healing attachment styles. Authenticity, boundaries, and emotional awareness play crucial roles in fostering healthier connections. This exploration provides a grounded perspective on what true secure attachment feels like and offers valuable lessons for those seeking to enhance their own relationships.

Aug 6, 2025 • 50min
People Pleasing Makes You Numb to Anger, Desire & Life
Oliver Robert Lucas, an expert in helping men overcome nice guy tendencies, shares insights into the detrimental effects of people pleasing. They discuss how prioritizing others' needs leads to emotional disconnection and suppresses true desires. Oliver emphasizes the importance of physical confidence and emotional safety in men's personal growth. They highlight the transformative power of martial arts in building camaraderie and resilience. The conversation also touches on navigating the complexities of desire and rejection, advocating for honest communication in relationships.

Sep 28, 2024 • 24min
The Coming Dark Age / Golden Age of Online Content
Explore the impact of AI on content creation and the potential rise of generic media. Delve into the significance of intentional audience-building to foster meaningful connections. Discover the alarming effects of algorithm-driven consumption and the emerging divide between authentic content seekers and mainstream consumers. Emphasize the value of cultivating a mindful information diet that prioritizes quality engagement. The future could herald a golden age for genuine human content amidst the noise!

Sep 16, 2024 • 16min
You'll achieve more when you stop trying so hard.
Exploring the paradox of productivity, the discussion reveals that trying harder often leads to less effectiveness. Procrastination is framed as a response to self-inflicted discomfort rather than task aversion. The importance of letting go of internal tension is emphasized, suggesting that clarity and awareness can significantly enhance focus. Listeners are encouraged to recognize and transform their patterns of self-sabotage, ultimately discovering that their best performance comes when they strive less.

Jul 30, 2024 • 48min
How to ACTUALLY Process & Release Your Emotions
Emotional processing often turns into avoidance, causing more harm than good. Misunderstanding emotions as simply 'good' or 'bad' can bog us down. The discussion emphasizes embracing feelings instead of numbing them. Using the metaphor of a conveyor belt, it illustrates the need for direct engagement with emotions. Techniques like breathwork and somatic processing are highlighted as effective ways to truly release emotional burdens. Authentic emotional connection can lead to clarity and healing, transforming our relationship with feelings.

Jan 3, 2024 • 59min
What You Need to Know About Creating a Course to Launching It Successfully | Episode 80
Learn how to create and launch a successful course, including involving your audience in the process, understanding their real problems, and avoiding superficial aspects. Consistency is emphasized, along with the power of testimonials in building trust and attracting potential clients.