Live Into Your Brilliance

This week, we dive deep into the messy, unpolished truth of life's challenges in a candid, raw, and thought-provoking conversation about gold-plated grit.Inspired by Brené Brown's concept from Rising Strong, we unpack the tendency to sanitize struggles, skipping over the messy middle in favor of a polished, digestible narrative. We explore why this illusion is so tempting—and why it does such a disservice to real connection, growth, and freedom.What You’ll Discover in This Episode:Gold-Plated Grit vs. Raw Truth: Why glossing over the "mud" robs us of the profound insights waiting in the discomfort.The Myth of "Fixing It": How relying on the ego only deepens the quicksand and why letting go of the story is key.Personal Struggles, Universal Lessons: Al shares an unvarnished account of a tough week leading up to his ayahuasca retreat in Peru, from emotional lows to unexpected moments of clarity.The Nature of the Mud: Why resisting life's challenges only creates more suffering and how to embrace the discomfort as the natural rhythm of being alive.From Mud to Lotus: How seeing the mud and lotus as one opens up a radically different experience of life—one that’s less about "overcoming" and more about being.This episode isn’t about strategies or formulas. It’s a raw, honest exploration of what happens when we stop resisting, let go of our stories, and sink into the mud to discover the rise.References and Resources:Brené Brown – Rising Strong: Explore Brené Brown's insights on vulnerability and resilience in her book Rising Strong. Learn more at Brené Brown's official website.Thich Nhat Hanh – No Mud, No Lotus: Discover Thich Nhat Hanh's teachings on transforming suffering into joy in No Mud, No Lotus. Details available at Plum Village's official website.Michael Neill and Rob CookDive deeper into transformative coaching with Michael Neill and discover Rob Cook's powerful story of resilience and insight.Explore Michael Neill's WorkAyahuasca Retreats with Arkana InternationalCurious about ayahuasca retreats? Learn more about Al's upcoming retreat and the transformative experiences at Arkana International.Discover Arkana InternationalProduced in partnership with http://www.podlad.com

In this powerful episode, we’re joined by the incredible David Staunton, a man who has turned life’s hardest moments into transformative gifts. Together, we explore the simple yet profound truth: Are you happy?David takes us on his journey, from the breaking point of an unexpected revelation to his fight for happiness, health, and self-love. He shares the grit behind choosing joy over ease, the courage it takes to say yes to life, and the faith required to step into the unknown—even when it feels terrifying.Key Takeaways:Ask Yourself the Big Question: “Am I happy?” If not, what’s your plan to change it?Faith Over Fear: Trust that stepping into the mud leads to growth. No mud, no lotus.Prioritize Yourself: Self-love is not selfish. It’s the foundation for loving others and living a meaningful life.Simplicity is Genius: The path to transformation isn’t about complexity—it’s about clarity and commitment.David’s story is a testament to the power of awareness, the importance of essential selfishness, and the beauty of embracing life’s unfolding, no matter how uncertain it feels.Connect with David:https://www.instagram.com/theradicalhealthcoach/www.theradicalhealthcoach.comPodcast Production provided by www.podlad.com

This episode marks a double celebration—the start of 2025 and the 50th birthday of our very own Mark Bilbe! 🎉Our exploration today dives into why letting go of expectations & surrendering control doesn’t mean passivity—it’s about opening space for deeper joy, creativity, and wonder. By silencing the noise of our “DJ Ego,” we step into flow, allowing life’s events to align naturally and effortlessly.We also discuss the profound shift that comes from fully embracing desires in the present moment. Instead of deferring fulfillment to an uncertain future, we front-load our experience, finding joy, peace, and connection right here and now.Key Takeaways:Surrender Creates Space: Letting go of rigid expectations frees you to experience life’s unfolding beauty.Say Yes to Life: Embrace what shows up with openness, even when it doesn’t match your initial vision.Front-Load Your Joy: Feel the richness of your desires now, rather than waiting for them to manifest.Flow Over Force: Trusting the process allows life to align in surprising and magical ways.Join us as we celebrate Mark’s milestone and explore how letting go allows us to live with greater freedom, wonder, and delight.Produced in partnership with http://www.podlad.com

In this second part of their exploration, Al & Bilos take the conversation deeper, focusing on what’s on offer when we let go of resistance, drop our stories, and step into the present moment. Building on the bridge metaphor from Part 1, they discuss the remarkable freedom that comes from aligning with our truth, even amidst life’s challenges. While acknowledging that life will always present its highs and lows, they emphasize how our experience of these moments transforms when we stop resisting what is and operate from a place of alignment. With practical insights and personal reflections, this episode is a powerful invitation to put down the bags, do the reps, and discover what’s on the other side of the bridge."Resistance to what is keeps us stuck. Letting go of the story frees us to cross the bridge and experience everything life has to offer."Highlights:The Nature of Resistance: Exploring how resistance arises from our attachment to stories about how life should be, and how letting go creates space for alignment and clarity.Truth over Control: Al and Bilos share how aligning with truth—not control—allows for a richer, more peaceful experience of life, even in difficult times.Doing the Reps: Practical steps to notice resistance, let go of stories, and take simple, aligned actions that build confidence in the process.Trust Brilliance and Cross that Bridge!Produced in partnership with http://www.podlad.com

In this first part of a two-part exploration, we explore the transformative power of letting go of the stories we carry—the narratives about who we think we are, who we believe we need to be, and what we think life should look like. These stories, often rooted in fear and ego, can weigh us down and prevent us from experiencing true freedom. Through personal reflections and vivid metaphors, they explore what happens when we loosen our grip on these narratives and step into the present moment. The conversation shines a light on the liberation and peace that comes from living without attachment to our stories, while also acknowledging the challenges and discomfort of this process."Everything is a story. But when you let go of the stories that no longer serve you, you start to experience yourself—and that’s where true freedom lies."Highlights:The Weight of Our Stories: Why we cling to narratives about who we are and how they shape our identity, ambitions, and relationships. Al and Bilos discuss how these stories can serve us initially but often outstay their welcome, creating exhaustion and limiting our freedom.The Practice of Letting Go: From small moments of discomfort to life-altering realizations, the hosts share insights on what it means to release the grip of our stories. Using powerful metaphors—like the "bags" we carry—they illustrate how shedding these stories can lead to a lighter, freer experience of life.Freedom on the Other Side: Letting go doesn’t mean losing ambition or direction—it means experiencing life with greater peace and presence. Al and Bilos explore the fear of letting go and the magic that’s revealed when we step into the unknown, beyond the narratives we hold so tightly.Until next time, keep living into your brilliance!produced in partnership with www.podlad.com

Today, we dive into the messy truth about practice—what it really means, why it matters, and how our stories get in the way. They unpack the liberating realization that there’s no external payoff for showing up in alignment and explore the joy of returning to your "home base." Through personal reflections and candid moments, this episode offers practical wisdom for navigating life with more presence and authenticity.Highlights:Letting Go of the Story: How dropping the stories we cling to—about ourselves, others, and life—frees us to live more fully.The Power of Choice: Why the space between stimulus and response is where your true freedom lies.Listening to Yourself: The joy and simplicity of aligning with your truth in the moment, even when it feels uncomfortable.Actionable Takeaways:Pause and Reflect: When you feel reactive, take a sacred pause and ask yourself, “What’s the story here?”Release the Weight: Experiment with letting go of a story you’ve been carrying and notice how it feels to carry less.Trust the Process: Take a step toward your knowing, even if there’s no clear outcome—it’s about the practice, not the payoff.Stay Brilliant, Stay Curious, and Keep Practicing!produced in partnership with http://www.podlad.com

In this episode, Al and Bilos welcome John Abbott, CEO of the Satellite Applications Catapult, to explore what it really means to create our experience of life. From his pivotal role at Mimecast to shaping the future of the UK space sector, John brings a unique perspective on leadership, innovation, and the myths we tell ourselves about control.Together, they unpack:Why we overestimate our ability to control external outcomes.The underestimated power of creating our experience from within.The role of practice and "sacred pauses" in showing up with integrity, even in high-stakes environments.How to move from fear-driven decisions to leading with authenticity and presence.What it takes to step into the person you want to be—at work, at home, and everywhere in between.John’s reflections on leadership, the power of choice, and dancing in the metaphorical rain will leave you inspired to rethink where you put your energy and attention.This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to lead with courage, clarity, and connection. Tune in and discover how to turn up the dial on what truly matters.Produced in partnership with http://www.podlad.com

In this deeply personal and reflective episode, Bilos courageously shares the story of his wife Vanessa’s recent breast cancer diagnosis, their journey through treatment, and the profound insights they’ve gained along the way.This heartfelt conversation touches on:The Power of Choice: How our response to life’s challenges shapes our experience, growth, and freedom.Surrendering to the Present: Why letting go of control and leaning into life’s unfolding can transform even the most difficult moments.Human Connection: The unexpected joy and strength found in community and shared vulnerability.Living Fully: How facing life’s curveballs can inspire us to embrace the present moment with more intention and authenticity.From creating a WhatsApp group filled with love and laughter to making conscious choices in the midst of uncertainty, Bilos’ reflections offer a moving reminder of the resilience of the human spirit.Bumper Sticker for Life:"Our choice dictates our growth and our freedom."This conversation is a testament to the power of choice, the beauty of surrender, and the richness of human connection. It’s a must-listen for anyone navigating challenges, big or small, and seeking a deeper understanding of how to live fully, no matter what life brings.🎧 Join us for this moving and unforgettable exploration of life, love, and the choices that shape us.Resources Mentioned:Viktor Frankl’s concept of choice between stimulus and response (Man’s Search for Meaning).Produced in partnership with http://www.podlad.com

“Nobody cares. Not in the way you think, anyway. We’re so wrapped up in our own insecurities, projecting them onto the world, and here’s the truth: the world’s just not watching you the way you think it is.” – Liz MorrellIn this powerful episode, we’re joined by Liz Morrell, a Life Celebrant who has guided over 3,000 families through loss, helping them see beauty in the darkest of times. Through her stories, Liz offers a rare, honest glimpse into how facing death can actually teach us how to live. Liz dives deep into the transformative potential of grief, the illusion of judgement, and the radical healing of simply letting go.Key Takeaways:The Truth About Judgment: Discover why most people aren't paying as much attention to you as you think. The insight? You’re free to let go of that fear and live authentically.What’s Coming Won’t Miss You: Liz shares a profound life lesson—whatever challenges or blessings are meant for you will find their way. Surrendering to this truth can be incredibly liberating.Grief as a Teacher: Instead of running from pain, Liz explains the value of sitting with it. In allowing ourselves to truly feel grief, we find clarity, growth, and even joy on the other side.The Power of Presence: Learn why stepping away from the “noise” of daily life—even if it’s just for a few moments—can help you reconnect with what’s truly important.Embracing Light and Dark: Liz has made peace with life’s duality, understanding that both joy and sorrow hold immense value. Her wisdom on navigating both ends of the spectrum without resistance is transformative.Why Listen? If you’re ready to confront what truly matters in life and break free from self-imposed illusions, this episode offers an unapologetically real conversation that will challenge and inspire you to live with more courage, depth, and presence.In this, Liz references two notable works:On Death and Dying by Elisabeth Kübler-Ross: This seminal book introduces the five stages of grief and offers profound insights into the experiences of the dying and their caregivers.The Afterlife of Billy Fingers by Annie Kagan: A compelling narrative where the author recounts her communications with her deceased brother, exploring themes of life after death and spiritual connection.Connect with Liz: info@lizmorrell.co.ukproduced in partnership with http://www.podlad.com

“You’re never going to find peace in the world outside—because it’s right here, within. The real journey is in breaking free from the relentless need to ‘do’ and learning to just ‘be.’”In this eye-opening conversation, we sit down with Harry Verma, founder of Innate Experiences, who challenges our deepest assumptions about purpose, success, and fulfilment. Fresh off a life-changing journey that took him from a fast-paced startup world to transformative ayahuasca ceremonies, Harry reveals how everything we chase in the outside world—status, accomplishments, even happiness—can only be truly found within.Tune in to learn:The Myth of Busyness: Why ‘doing more’ is the ultimate trap—and how the world’s most successful people are often the ones who know when to stop.Letting Go of Control: Hear Harry’s raw account of confronting his own ego and realising that control is an illusion—one that holds us back from true joy and fulfilment.The Real Power of ‘Doing Less’: Discover why doing one intentional, joy-filled thing each day can reset your entire mindset and enhance your sense of peace, productivity, and presence.Breaking Free from Outside Validation: Why living for external approval only leaves you feeling empty—and the liberating shift of finding validation within yourself.The Middle Path Between Ambition and Inner Peace: Harry’s approach to merging ancient wisdom with modern success, creating a “middle path” where you don’t have to compromise to live fully and authentically.Why Listen? If you've ever felt trapped in the endless cycle of striving and achievement, this episode will change how you view success, fulfilment, and the very purpose of life.You can connect with Harry and learn more about Innate Experiences here:https://www.instagram.com/innate_experiences/https://www.innate.global/Podcast produced in partnership with http://www.podlad.com