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The Light Watkins Show

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Jun 12, 2024 • 1h 31min

212: How to Experience More Purpose and Passion Each Day with Passion Struck Author John Miles

In this episode of The Light Watkins Show, Light Watkins engages in a compelling conversation with John Miles, a former US Naval officer and Fortune 50 senior executive who has successfully pivoted to become the host of the acclaimed Passion Struck podcast. John is also the author of the self-help book Passion Struck, where he explores themes of personal transformation and discovering one's true purpose.The episode begins with a look into John's early life, including a significant accident in his childhood that led to cognitive challenges and a speech impediment. John discusses how running cross country in high school helped him tap into the flow state and develop perseverance.The conversation delves into John's time at the Naval Academy, where he navigated a major cheating scandal that tested his values and shaped his understanding of leadership and integrity. John also shares insights from his corporate career, revealing how his experiences led to a spiritual awakening and a critical moment that made him reconsider his life's direction.A key highlight of this episode is John's recounting of his transition from the corporate world to starting the Passion Struck podcast. He describes how the podcast grew from zero to millions of downloads, offering listeners practical advice on building a successful podcast and living a life of intentionality. John explains the principles from his book, providing actionable steps for overcoming obstacles and achieving personal and professional fulfillment.This episode promises a wealth of knowledge and inspiration, especially for those feeling stuck in their careers or contemplating new ventures. John's story demonstrates the power of self-leadership, resilience, and the pursuit of purpose.Listeners will leave with motivation and practical strategies to embrace their own paths and ignite their most intentional lives. Tune in to hear John Miles' extraordinary journey and discover how to apply his insights to your own life.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
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Jun 7, 2024 • 32min

211: Plot Twist: The Gunshot that NEARLY Killed Arjuna O'Neal and Led To His Spiritual Awakening

In this first-ever Plot Twist episode of The Light Watkins Show, host Light Watkins revisits the conversation with Arjuna O’Neal, whose life story is as dramatic as it is transformative. Arjuna takes us on a journey from his troubled youth in Detroit to a near-death experience that redefined his existence.Arjuna recounts his childhood in the Hare Krishna community of Detroit, under the shadow of his father, one of the city's biggest drug dealers. Despite his academic success, Arjuna was drawn into the dangerous world of drugs and crime to earn his father’s approval. He describes how his father manipulated him into the drug trade, using their relationship as leverage. This toxic dynamic led Arjuna to perform increasingly dangerous tasks, including a near-fatal drive-by shooting.Ambitious to surpass his father, Arjuna took bold steps that ultimately resulted in his father placing a hit on him. This betrayal ignited a deadly cat-and-mouse game that lasted years, deeply affecting Arjuna's psyche. The turning point came when Arjuna’s girlfriend, in a moment of rage and fear, accidentally shot him. As he lay bleeding, Arjuna experienced a profound spiritual encounter that shifted his entire outlook on life.This near-death experience became the catalyst for Arjuna’s spiritual transformation. He shares how this moment of intense vulnerability and pain led to a deep inner awakening and a renewed connection with God. Join us for an intense and moving episode as Arjuna O’Neal shares his journey from the brink of death to spiritual rebirth. His story is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the possibility of profound change.This episode marks the debut of the new "Plot Twist" series, where Light Watkins highlights pivotal moments that radically alter life's trajectory.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
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Jun 5, 2024 • 1h 18min

210: Happiness Is Not Enough, Says Happiness Expert: You Want Sovereignty - with Dr. Emma Seppälä

In this episode of The Light Watkins Show, host, Light Watkins sits down with Dr. Emma Seppala, a renowned psychologist and author of "The Happiness Track" and "Sovereign." Listen in as they explore the concept of true success and fulfillment, contrasting societal expectations with inner peace and happiness.Dr. Seppala shares her fascinating journey from her upbringing in Paris to her transformative experiences at Yale and beyond. Discover how her encounters with different cultures shaped her understanding of inner wealth versus outer achievement. Learn why she believes that genuine fulfillment comes from inner peace and a heart full of love rather than societal accolades.Dr. Emma also shares the profound impact of meditation and breathing techniques on mental health, highlighting Dr. Seppala's personal experiences and her groundbreaking work with veterans suffering from PTSD. She explains the difference between hedonic and eudaimonic happiness, shedding light on how compassion and connection with something greater than ourselves lead to lasting contentment.She also talks about the concept of sovereignty, emphasizing the importance of a life-supportive relationship with oneself. She reveals how gratitude, meditation, and immersing oneself in wisdom can radically transform our lives. Plus, get practical tips on integrating these practices into your daily routine and encouraging your family to do the same.Whether seeking a fresh perspective on success, struggling with self-criticism, or looking to enhance your inner peace, this episode offers invaluable insights and actionable advice. Dr. Seppala's wisdom and compassionate approach will inspire you to rethink your definition of success and embark on a journey toward true fulfillment.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
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May 29, 2024 • 1h 17min

209: My Thoughts on Toxic Positivity: A Solo Episode with Light Watkins

In this solo episode, Light delves into the concept of toxic positivity, increasingly prevalent in wellness circles. Starting with the parable of the farmer and the horse, he illustrates how excessive optimism can dismiss genuine emotional experiences, leading to a superficial understanding of growth and resilience.Light explains that toxic positivity involves the ineffective overgeneralization of a happy state across all situations, invalidating real emotions. He emphasizes acknowledging positive and negative experiences as part of a balanced approach to inner work.The episode explores how social media amplifies extreme viewpoints, creating pressure to conform to unrealistic standards. Light advocates for embracing a middle ground, where multiple truths can coexist, fostering a more nuanced perspective.Throughout the discussion, Light highlights the significance of spiritual maturity and empathy in validating others' experiences while recognizing growth opportunities. He shares practical advice on engaging in inner work, such as meditation, gratitude practices, and acts of service, to maintain a balanced outlook.This episode thoughtfully explores the complex interplay between positivity and realism. It's a must-listen for anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of emotional well-being and cultivate a more genuine, empathetic approach to personal growth.Tune in to gain insights and practical tools for fostering a balanced, authentic life amid societal pressures to maintain constant positivity. Light's unique perspective and engaging storytelling make this episode enlightening and inspiring.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
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May 22, 2024 • 1h 31min

208: The Worst Commencement Speech Ever? Behind the scenes of Chris Pan's Viral Graduation Address at Ohio State

In this week’s episode of The Light Watkins Show, Light reconnects with Chris Pan, the founder of MyIntent and VOMO, for his third appearance on the show. Known for his mission-driven initiatives that spread the power of intention and promote emotional wellness through music and movement, Chris recently delivered a commencement speech at Ohio State University that garnered intense public scrutiny.Chris Pan's speech at Ohio State was anything but ordinary. Intended to offer unconventional wisdom and personal truths, the speech included topics like Bitcoin and the importance of emotional health. Despite his good intentions, the reaction was polarized, with some labeling it the "worst commencement speech ever." Chris faced boos from the audience and harsh criticism in the media, but he remained steadfast in his message.In this episode, Chris shares with Light the intricate process of crafting his speech. He talks about using psychedelics for creative inspiration and his commitment to discussing what he believes are crucial considerations for graduates. Chris also opens up about the real-time feedback he received, including both negative and positive reactions, and how he managed to navigate the aftermath of such a high-profile event.The conversation delves into the broader implications of nontraditional approaches in public speaking and the courage required to break from the norm. Chris's story is a powerful reminder of the importance of authenticity and the impact of following one's heart, even in the face of adversity. Listeners will gain insight into Chris's dedication to helping others achieve financial, emotional, and spiritual freedom through his innovative projects.Whether you agree or disagree with Chris's methods, this episode offers a thought-provoking look at the challenges and rewards of taking bold, unconventional steps. Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
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May 15, 2024 • 1h 34min

207: The Third Perspective - How to Break Free From Your Echo Chamber with Africa Brooke

In this episode of The Light Watkins Show, Light Watkins sits down with Africa Brooke for the second time. Africa is a celebrated writer, speaker, and consultant to discuss her transformative new book, The Third Perspective. This conversation dives deep into the nuances of brave expression, self-censorship, and navigating the complexities of our polarized world.Africa is renowned for her work in developmental coaching, focusing on self-sabotage and self-censorship. She shares her compelling story of growing up in Zimbabwe, moving to London, and ultimately finding her path through personal struggles and public declarations of her beliefs. She also talks about overcoming personal battles with alcoholism, and stepping away from the "cult of wokeness" has shaped her unique approach to authenticity and integrity. Her book, The Third Perspective, encourages readers to explore the often-ignored gray areas in life and find their voice amid societal pressures to conform. It provides a framework that advocates for embracing complexity and rejecting binary thinking. This episode delves into the principles behind her approach and the tools she offers for fostering authentic and courageous conversations.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
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May 8, 2024 • 1h 38min

206: He Went From Being a One-Man Food Bank to Starting a Movement: The Story of Joseph Bradford III and The B.A.R.E. Truth (Replay)

In this week’s episode of The Light Watkins Show, we revisit Light’s conversation with Joseph Bradford III about how the challenges of his childhood led him to dedicate his life to helping the homeless. Joseph started a non-profit called B.A.R.E. Truth, an organization that provides mentorship, independent living assistance, and wellness services to impoverished individuals and families. By helping them attain healthy, purpose-driven lives, Joseph ultimately changed the economic and living conditions of communities. Their conversation begins as always, with Joseph’s upbringing, and he tells a story about being born to a very young mother, the oldest of his siblings. He talks about the responsibilities placed on his shoulders to look after those more vulnerable than himself, even as a kid. This sparked an early tendency in Joseph to be caring and to see that the people around him were safe before he thought of his own well-being. We hear about Joseph's many challenges through school and college before he finally wound up in California and began to help the homeless after giving away half his dinner one night. Joseph talks about consistently trying to lend a hand and how this process slowly scaled up to the point where he started B.A.R.E Truth. Light and Joseph spent the last part of their conversation focusing on good approaches to helping the homeless, the work Joseph does to keep his non-profit running, and the centrality of his desire to care keeps him motivated each day.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
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May 1, 2024 • 1h 13min

205: The Story of Mar de Jade: How to Build a Thriving Community through Acts of Service and Following Your Heart

In this inspiring episode of The Light Watkins Show, Light engages in a deep and revealing conversation with Laura Del Valle and her daughter, Angelica, the visionaries behind Mar de Jade, a unique retreat center in Nayarit, Mexico. Laura's journey began in the bustling streets of Mexico City, where she shifted from acting to medicine, driven by a desire to serve the rural poor. Despite her family's concerns about her unconventional path, Laura's commitment to her purpose led her to establish a medical clinic in a remote beach town, which eventually evolved into the thriving retreat center known as Mar de Jade.Angelica, growing up in this environment of service and simplicity, brings her own perspectives on integrating community, sustainability, and education into the retreat's ethos. Mar de Jade is not just a retreat center but a community hub where education, organic farming, and skilled trades flourish, supported by the proceeds from the retreats and donations from a global community.This episode is not just the story of a retreat center but a testament to the power of following one’s path, overcoming obstacles, and making a profound impact on a community. It's about finding freedom outside conventional life paths and discovering that service to others enriches one's own life in unexpected ways. Join us as Laura and Angelica share their remarkable journey of faith, resilience, and the creation of a sanctuary that not only heals but also empowers its community.For anyone feeling stuck or uncertain in their journey, this episode is a reminder that sometimes the most unconventional paths lead to the most fulfilling destinations.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
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Apr 24, 2024 • 1h 1min

204: 5 Things To Avoid Along Your Spiritual Journey: A Solo Episode with Light Watkins

In this week's episode of The Light Watkins Show, host Light Watkins delves deep into the spiritual journey, sharing "Five Things to Avoid Along Your Spiritual Journey." Drawing on his extensive background in meditation, speaking, and writing, Light offers unique insights from decades of exploring the metaphysical, Vedic knowledge, and practical aspects of spirituality. This episode is designed not only for those who acknowledge their spiritual path but also for anyone open to the idea of a spiritual journey.Light's approach is to humanize the concept of spirituality, making it accessible and relatable. He breaks down complex ideas into real-world applications, offering tangible tips and tools to enhance your spiritual experience. Whether you're well into your spiritual quest or just curious about what it entails, this episode promises to provide valuable perspectives that could help navigate the often challenging aspects of personal growth and self-awareness. Through personal anecdotes and expert knowledge, Light discusses common pitfalls in spiritual practices and how to avoid them, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness, consistency, and courage in pursuing one's spiritual goals. The episode is a reflective and enlightening exploration of how embracing your spiritual journey can lead to a more fulfilled and manageable life, urging listeners to give themselves permission to pursue their paths fearlessly. Join Light as he guides you through these transformative insights, encouraging a deeper connection to oneself and the world around us.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
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Apr 17, 2024 • 1h 26min

203: The Art of Leaving Your "Successful" but Unfulfilling Career to Follow Your Heart, with Bimma Williams

In this week’s episode of The Light Watkins Show, we delve into the life and career of Bimma Williams, a marketing expert and advocate for creativity who grew up in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Born to parents working in the hazardous environment of a chemical plant, Bimma shares how their experiences and aspirations shaped his own journey towards education and a safer, more fulfilling professional life. He discusses the profound impact of his childhood—marked by his parents' divorce and his experience as an only child—on his personal and career choices.Bimma's narrative transitions from his high school days as an introverted yet passionate athlete to his college years and eventual rise in the corporate world, working with top brands like Saucony, Adidas, and Nike. He opens up about the challenges and breakthroughs he encountered, including the inspiring parallels he draws between long-distance running and life's many marathons. With a unique blend of personal anecdotes and professional insights, Bimma also explores his eventual pivot to entrepreneurship, influenced by a realization of the need for more substantial community and societal contributions beyond corporate achievements. This episode is not just a biography but a motivational journey that underscores the importance of pursuing happiness, creativity, and personal fulfillment in both work and life. Listeners will find invaluable lessons on resilience, the significance of nurturing one's unique talents, and the courage to make life-altering decisions that align with one's values and dreams. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur, a creative, or someone at a career crossroads, Bimma's story offers the inspiration and practical advice needed to navigate the complexities of modern professional landscapes.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!

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