Beyond the Self with Africa Brooke

I started Beyond the Self when I was 27 years old, recordings would be in my wardrobe in a small box room at my Mama's house, in the thick of deep personal change. I had moved back to the family home after a tough breakup. I was a couple of years into building my company, 4 years into sharing my story of sabotaging my entire life and being forced to get sober. Years into allowing my work to exist publicly. And although I had my convictions, I was uncertain, curious, and committed to growth. All of which I still am, in varying proportions.Now, at 32, I’ve had the honour of sitting with you through some of the most transformative years of my life. This podcast has of course been a place for ideas and reflection, but it’s also been a sacred container where I could show up fully, be seen, and be met by an open-hearted, intelligent, loving community. You allowed me to be ALL of myself, even as that self changed again and again. For that, I will always be grateful.This final episode is a gentle but potent closing chapter. It’s, as always... raw, honest, and full of love. I speak about what these past five years have meant, how much I’ve grown, what's been happening in my life as I sit here writing this, and why it feels right to let this version of things go. I also shared things that still feel very tender, but it's why we're here, right?And while this is an ending, it’s also a beginning. A BIG one. Unthinkable Thoughts, my new show, is on its way (EEEEEEK!!!!), and I’ve never felt more ready to say the things that have been waiting to be said. Thank you for walking with me. I’ll see you on the other side.RESOURCES MENTIONED:JOIN ME NEXT MONTH FOR The In-Between - a LIVE virtual masterclass on Sunday 6th July (replay will be available if you can't make it live):It's for those moving through quiet or loud change. No longer who they were, and maybe not yet sure who they’re becoming. I created this for anyone who’s facing a shift. Be it subtly or deeply - and needs room to name it, honour the ending, and step gently into what’s next. I can't wait to have you in the room!BUY MY BOOK THE THIRD PERSPECTIVE:(also available at Waterstones, Barnes & Nobles and all major bookstores and independents - check for international delivery. Request it at your libraries too!)SUPPORT THE SHOW:If you found this valuable - be sure to follow, RATE, subscribe, leave a review on Apple Podcasts, and share this podcast with your pals, family, and community - let's not withhold transformation from each other.⁣⁣⁣⁣You can also connect with me directly over on Instagram, I'd love to continue the conversation with you - @africabrooke or you can email me  (including if you have podcast episode requests) at hello@africabrooke.com with the subject line 'Beyond the Self'. I can't wait to hear from you!⁣⁣⁣⁣PLEASE NOTE: I do not give advice in DM's, emails, or comments, but I'd love to hear your feedback and know what your lightbulb moments or breakthroughs were. It also lights me up when you tag me in the screenshots of you listening, do continue!

Oh my goodness. This conversation is everything I needed, and more.I’m joined by one of my best friends and favourite humans on this planet, the incredible Rui Liu, a child of tea and founder of Grass People Tree. We went beyond what you might expect from a conversation that centres tea (though we go deep into that too). We found ourselves going into culture, identity, ancestry, friendship, artistry, business, beauty, rebellion, ritual… all of it.We talk about Rui’s childhood in rural China, her unexpected leap into the fashion world, and how tea became the anchor that brought her back home. To herself, to her people, and to a way of life rooted in reverence. We unpack what it means to create from truth, to honour your roots while navigating the modern world, and to stay close to the quiet, sacred things even when life gets loud. I'M SO EXCITED FOR YOU TO DIVE INNNN!I especially wanted Rui to tell us all the story behind building Grass People Tree. And to go into the details of why GPT is beyond being a brand, but more of a living archive of oral histories, indigenous knowledge, and living tea. We explore the difference between tea that is alive versus tea that’s been industrialised, and how language, story, and care make all the difference.This was one of the most expansive, soul-shifting conversations I’ve ever had. Guys, I honestly felt like we were sitting in a temple, laughing and crying and remembering the parts of ourselves that are often forgotten in the rush of it all.I just know you will love where we took this! She's also kindly given us a 10% DISCOUNT (use code AFRICABROOKE) when you buy yourself some tea from the GPT website, below. Make use of it, and you'll see why I drink this tea each time I sit down to connect. Resources Mentioned:The Roots of Tea (A Self-paced Course) - I have to say it again, this offering is phenomenal! Grass People Tree JournalGET IN TOUCH WITH RUI:Website: Grass People Tree (discount code AFRICABROOKE for 10% off)Instagram: @grasspeopletree / @rui.raeEmail: getsharing@grasspeopletree.comIf you found this valuable - be sure to follow, RATE, subscribe, leave a review on Apple Podcasts, and share this podcast with your pals, family, and community - let's not withhold transformation from each other.⁣⁣⁣⁣You can also connect with me directly over on Instagram, I'd love to continue the conversation with you - @africabrooke or you can email me  (including if you have podcast episode requests) at hello@africabrooke.com with the subject line 'Beyond the Self'. I can't wait to hear from you!⁣⁣⁣⁣PLEASE NOTE: I do not give advice in DM's, emails, or comments, but I'd love to hear your feedback and know what your lightbulb moments or breakthroughs were. It also lights me up when you tag me in the screenshots of you listening, do continue!

Is protecting your peace a noble act or just clever avoidance? The host dives into the murky waters of self-sabotage disguised as empowerment, challenging the notion that solitude means strength. From the silent treatment as boundary-setting to using isolation as a badge of honor, these patterns subtly undermine true connection. The conversation encourages listeners to reflect on their own behaviors, exploring how avoidance masquerades as self-care and the impact of these choices on intimate relationships. It's time to confront, not evade!

In this candid discussion, the host opens up about the raw emotions surrounding a recent breakup, emphasizing the importance of self-integrity and personal growth. They explore the painful process of grieving while still loving someone and the hard lessons learned from heartbreak. The conversation highlights the journey towards embracing courageous expression and navigating vulnerability. Listeners will resonate with themes of self-discovery, the impact of community support, and a commitment to authenticity.

Caro Gomez, a visionary shaman’s apprentice and award-winning fashion designer, shares her inspiring journey of cultural navigation and identity. She reflects on the emotional complexities of belonging while balancing her Mayan roots with new life in the UK. The conversation dives into themes of privilege, the struggles of immigration, and the importance of honoring one’s heritage. Caro's insights on embracing authenticity and the joy of creative self-expression paint a vivid picture of the quest for connection and self-acceptance in an unconventional world.

In a heartfelt conversation, themes of resilience and vulnerability take center stage. The host emphasizes the importance of embracing help from others, weaving in personal anecdotes that highlight collaboration's value. Listeners are urged to see asking for help as a transformative act of freedom, overcoming the fear of rejection. By expressing oneself authentically, deeper connections and personal growth can emerge. A warm invitation to connect further adds a personal touch to the insightful discussion.

Dive into the intricate world of sexuality and self-sabotage. Discover how societal pressures and childhood shame can hold you back in the bedroom. Hear personal stories of transformation through self-love and tantric practices. Learn about the mind-altering effects of porn and how to reclaim your sexual power. Embrace authenticity and break free from old patterns to unlock your true potential.

In this engaging dialogue, Sharmadean Reid, founder of The Stack and a celebrated cultural visionary, shares her journey of breaking societal barriers. She discusses her evolving relationship with identity and money, highlighting the importance of financial empowerment and self-leadership for women. Sharmadean emphasizes overcoming scarcity mindsets and harnessing community support as essential tools for success. Her upcoming book, 'New Methods for Women,' aims to inspire readers by providing practical strategies for redefining personal success and fostering equity.

This discussion dives deep into the often-avoided topic of conflict and its surprising effect on relationships. It highlights how upbringing shapes our conflict styles and how facing conflict can actually strengthen intimacy. Listeners are encouraged to embrace vulnerability and proactive resolution to foster deeper connections. Personal reflections weave through the conversation, demonstrating the transformative power of honest communication and self-compassion. It's an enlightening take on the complexity of emotional intimacy.

Discomfort might feel unbearable, but it could be your greatest ally in personal growth. Embracing it helps to step outside your comfort zone, leading to rewarding transformations. Delve into the fascinating science behind how discomfort fuels development. Personal stories highlight its role in relationships and confidence-building. Plus, discover tips on shifting your mindset and waking up as a morning person. Uncover the positive aspects of discomfort—it's a powerful tool for self-discovery!