
The Light Watkins Show
Have you been dreaming of helping people in a meaningful way, but can’t get past your deepest insecurities or self doubt? The truth is: every change maker has to confront those same fears. The Light Watkins Show is a weekly interview podcast that unpacks the experiences of regular folks who have navigated dark and uncertain times in order to help improve the lives others. Light candidly shares these stories in the hopes of igniting your inspiration so you can start living your purpose! Light Watkins is a best-selling author and keynote speaker. In 2014, Light started a non-profit variety show called The Shine Movement in Los Angeles, which grew into a global inspirational variety show! In 2020 he started an online personal development community called The Happiness Insiders. His most recent book, Travel Light, documents his one-bagger nomadic journey that he started in 2018.
Latest episodes

Jul 12, 2024 • 27min
221: Plot Twist: How a List of 100 Things Led to Unexpected Adventures and Fulfillment with Author Sebastian Terry
In this episode, Light Watkins brings you an inspiring and heartfelt Plot Twist featuring Seb Terry, an author and speaker known for his adventurous spirit and unique approach to life.Seb's story begins with a devastating phone call informing him of a close friend's sudden death. This tragedy prompted him to reflect on his own life, leading to a pivotal moment where he realized he wasn't living fully. Seb was working tirelessly but had little to show for it. In a moment of clarity, he created a list of 100 experiences that he believed would bring him happiness and fulfillment.Here’s what’s covered in Seb’s plot twist episode:0:05 - Introduction3:09 - Seb's dark night of the soul moment4:45 - The list that changed Seb's life6:03 - How to follow your passion AND pay the bills9:48 - Why Seb's list is NOT a bucket list11:48 - What's it like to visit death row17:02 - How Seb's mission evolved as more people got involved21:56 - Why the world conspires for you and not against youCurious about the adventures Seb got into during his quest?? You can continue the story here.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!

Jul 10, 2024 • 1h 12min
220: Why Your Darkest Truth is Your Greatest Creative Weapon with Spoken Word Prodigy, IN-Q
In this episode of The Light Watkins Show, Light Watkins welcomes back the dynamic poet and spoken word performer Adam Schmalholz, better known as IN-Q. Light dives into an inspiring conversation with IN-Q, exploring the extraordinary journey of one of today's most electric spoken word artists.IN-Q opens up about his latest project, The Never Ending Now Poetry Journal, a 10-week guided journal designed to help individuals express their dreams, growth, fears, and gratitude through the power of poetry. He shares the story behind the creation of this journal and its accompanying album, emphasizing the transformative impact of storytelling and self-expression.Listeners will hear about IN-Q's personal experiences, including his sensitive and raw journey through therapy and a pivotal conversation with his wife that became a key element of his album. IN-Q reveals the deeply personal nature of his work and the courage it takes to share such vulnerable moments with the world.The episode also features engaging discussions about creativity, vulnerability, and the power of art to heal and inspire. IN-Q's insights into his creative process, his thoughts on the importance of authenticity in art, and his perspective on the role of vulnerability in personal growth provide valuable takeaways for listeners.Light and IN-Q's conversation is not just an interview but a heartfelt exchange between two friends, making it a rich and relatable experience for the audience. Tune in to discover how IN-Q's work can inspire you to embrace your own creative journey and find deeper meaning and connection in your life.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!

Jul 5, 2024 • 34min
219: Plot Twist: From Solitary Confinement to NY Times Best Selling Author, Shaka Senghor’s Incredible Story of Redemption
In this week's Plot Twist episode of The Light Watkins Show, we revisit the remarkable story of Shaka Senghor. This bite-sized Plot Twist episode takes listeners through Shaka’s life, highlighting a pivotal moment that transformed his path forever.Here are some of the topics discuss in this episode:1:12 - Introduction3:39 - What's it like to be in solitary confinement5:40 - How Shaka wrote a book in prison11:05 - How Shaka managed to get his book out of prison15:44 - How Shaka got himself out of prison using only a letter18:09 - What it takes to become a bestselling author21:13 - The first book Shaka ever sold out of prison23:31 - How to get your life back after prison31:17 - The call that changed Shaka's lifeIf you want to find out why Oprah didn’t want Shaka to come to Hawaii, watch here.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!

Jul 3, 2024 • 1h 29min
218: Mastering Viral Content and An Unconventional Approach to Modern Mindfulness with Author and Social Media Influencer Cory Allen
In this episode of The Light Watkins Show, host Light Watkins sits down with author, podcast host, and meditation expert Cory Allen for an inspiring and insightful conversation. Cory, a daily meditator for over 25 years, shares his journey from a chaotic family environment to becoming a renowned digital creator, author, and podcast host. With a following that reaches over a million people weekly on Instagram, Cory’s content on mental clarity and motivation has resonated deeply with his audience.Light and Cory dive deep into the secrets behind Cory’s viral Instagram posts, offering valuable tips for creators looking to grow their online presence. Cory breaks down his analytical approach to content creation, providing a unique perspective on how to gauge and optimize the impact of social media posts. This episode is a treasure trove of practical advice for aspiring influencers and anyone interested in the digital space.Listeners will also get an intimate look into Cory’s personal story, including how his unstable childhood led him to self-discovery and daily meditation. Cory’s candid sharing of his life’s challenges and triumphs offers a relatable and motivational narrative that underscores the importance of perseverance and inner growth.Additionally, the episode explores Cory’s innovative approach to music production and his early days of growing his Instagram page. Light’s thoughtful questions guide the conversation, making it easy for listeners to connect with Cory’s experiences and insights.Tune in and discover how Cory Allen has turned his life’s obstacles into opportunities, and learn practical strategies for finding your path and purpose. Whether you’re a creator, a meditator, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode promises to leave you with actionable takeaways and a renewed sense of possibility. Don’t miss this engaging and uplifting conversation.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!

Jun 28, 2024 • 19min
217: Plot Twist: How Sahara Rose Turned Familial Criticism into Fuel for Doubling Down on Her Path
In this “Plot Twist” episode of The Light Watkins Show, Light Watkins sits down with Sahara Rose, a best-selling author and Ayurvedic expert, to explore her remarkable journey of resilience and self-discovery. Known for her books Eat Feel Fresh, The Idiot's Guide to Ayurveda, and Discover Your Dharma, Sahara shares how she overcame significant challenges to follow her true path.Listeners will hear Sahara recount the difficulties she faced while writing her first book, especially the intense opposition from her parents, who labeled her a failure. Despite these hurdles, she persevered, driven by a deep belief in her mission. Her story takes a fascinating turn as she moves to Bali, where she finds solace and inspiration among spiritual entrepreneurs. This period in her life introduces her to transformative practices like ecstatic dance and shamanic training, which help her reclaim her power and trust her intuition.Sahara's journey is a powerful example of believing in oneself, even when faced with doubt from those closest to us. She emphasizes the need to protect one’s dreams from negative influences and to trust in one's inner voice, no matter how unconventional the path may appear.Featured in major publications like Vogue, Forbes, and Yoga Journal, and as the host of the number one spiritual podcast on iTunes, The Highest Self Podcast, Sahara Rose's story is both inspiring and enlightening. This episode will resonate with anyone who has ever faced a difficult choice or a challenging path. Tune in to hear how Sahara Rose turned her life's plot twists into a powerful narrative of triumph and transformation.If this Plot Twist inspires you to revisit the original (longer) conversation, you can check it out here (it’s episode 110).Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!

15 snips
Jun 26, 2024 • 1h 22min
216: Robin Sharma on The Wealth Money Can't Buy and The Secrets to Living Your Richest Life
Robin Sharma, a renowned author celebrated for his bestseller, shares transformative insights from his latest book. He discusses the eight hidden habits to live your richest life, emphasizing personal fulfillment over monetary wealth. Robin recounts his journey from law to literature, the significance of small moments, and the power of journaling for emotional well-being. He reveals practical tips like the benefits of fasting and the importance of solitude. This engaging conversation is filled with personal stories and strategies for mindful living.

Jun 21, 2024 • 27min
215: Plot Twist: Reverend Michael Beckwith on His Strange Journey from Ganja to Guru of Agape Spiritual Center
In this Plot Twist episode, we bring you an extraordinary story from Reverend Michael Beckwith, founder of the Agape International Spiritual Center. With a congregation of over 9,000 people each week, Reverend Beckwith is a prominent thought leader featured in the film and book, "The Secret," and has been a guest on Oprah several times. He's also the author of several spiritual books and hosts the popular podcast, Take Back Your Mind.But Reverend Beckwith’s journey to becoming a spiritual leader wasn’t straightforward. He started as an atheist and had a stint as a pharmaceutical distributor. In this episode, we delve into the pivotal moment that changed his life forever.Reverend Beckwith recounts the time he was arrested for selling marijuana and how this life-altering experience redirected him toward his true path. Despite the dire situation, he remained calm and centered, guided by an inner voice that assured him he would walk free. He shares how the illegal actions of the police led to his release and how this miraculous turn of events deepened his faith and commitment to a spiritual life.You’ll hear about his transformation from a life of dealing drugs to becoming a respected spiritual teacher. Reverend Beckwith’s story is filled with remarkable incidents, like his vision of Agape while in Mexico and the profound moment when he fully surrendered to his spiritual calling.Join us as Reverend Beckwith opens up about the challenges, miracles, and divine interventions that shaped his journey. This episode is a testament to the power of faith, resilience, and following one’s true calling. Listen in and be inspired to embrace your plot twists, knowing they might lead you to your true purpose.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!

Jun 19, 2024 • 1h 28min
214: The Science of Manifestation and Unlocking Your Mind's Magic with Neuroscientist, Dr. James Doty
Neuroscientist Dr. James Doty shares his inspiring journey from challenges to success, exploring the science of manifestation, intention, visualization, destiny, and the placebo effect. He emphasizes compassion, letting go of attachment, and the power of visualization in achieving goals.

Jun 14, 2024 • 30min
213: Plot Twist: "Top 5 Regrets of the Dying" Author Bronnie Ware's Internal Struggle Led To Her Viral Post
In today's special Plot Twist episode, we journey through the life-changing moments of Bronnie Ware, an ordinary person who experienced extraordinary twists and turns on her path to finding her true purpose.Bronnie Ware dreamed of becoming a singer, but life had other plans. To support her musical aspirations, she took a part-time job in palliative care. Little did she know that this job would lead her to profound insights and unexpected opportunities. In this episode, Bronnie shares a pivotal moment when she faced a financial crisis while trying to record her album. Just when she thought all hope was lost, an unexpected encounter brought her the help she needed at the last moment.Bronnie's journey didn’t stop there. From teaching songwriting in a jail to battling depression and finding her voice through writing, her story is a testament to the power of resilience and following one’s heart. She famously penned the article "The Top Five Regrets of the Dying," which resonated with millions worldwide.Listen as Bronnie recounts her inspiring story. Her experiences remind us that even in our darkest times, there can be moments of grace and unexpected support. This episode will encourage you to embrace your plot twists, trusting they might lead you to your true path.Tune in to discover how Bronnie Ware transformed her challenges into opportunities and became known for her heartfelt and impactful writing. You won't want to miss this enlightening and uplifting episode!Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!

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!