A New Way of Being

Wim Hof, known as The Iceman, is famous for his extraordinary ability to withstand extreme cold and his unique breathing techniques. In this conversation, he challenges the obsession with comfort and advocates for intentionally facing stress to build resilience. Hof shares how embracing cold environments can activate stress responses, enhancing mental and physical strength. He emphasizes that by consciously encountering challenges, we can improve our overall well-being and become masters of our own stress mechanisms.

Dr. Clare Ashley, author of 'The Burnout Doctor' and former NHS medic, shares her insights on the hidden epidemic of burnout. She discusses how denial often masks the condition and highlights subtle signs everyone should notice. Clare emphasizes the protective power of purpose, community, and autonomy in preventing burnout. She reveals how even 20% of meaningful work can transform well-being and connects burnout recovery with self-awareness and intention. This enlightening chat is a must-listen for anyone feeling overwhelmed.

Tim Spector, a renowned expert in gut health, dives into the fascinating connection between our gut microbiome and anxiety. He explains how our gut produces vital brain chemicals like serotonin and GABA, which play crucial roles in regulating mood. The discussion also highlights the powerful benefits of incorporating fermented foods, such as homemade kefir, into our diets to enhance gut health and mental wellness. Personal stories and scientific evidence together reveal practical steps anyone can take to improve their emotional well-being through gut health.

Danny Donachie, a coach and former athlete, shares his journey from sports to spiritual awakening, emphasizing how to overcome habitual thought patterns. He discusses the importance of quick recovery and soft focus over perfection and the need for deep attention in a world full of distractions. Danny highlights the role of breath and body awareness in meditation, the transformative power of intention, and how ordinary moments become extraordinary when we truly embrace the present. Their conversation blends mindfulness with personal anecdotes about mortality and the deeper connections in life.

In this discussion, Peter Crone, a thought leader in the realm of identity and personal growth, dives deep into the contrast between pain and suffering. He reveals that pain is a natural part of life, while suffering is a psychological construct rooted in our identities. Crone emphasizes the power of dismantling limiting beliefs to unlock true freedom and flow. He also explores the cultural influences on self-consciousness, particularly examining how societal expectations can distort our self-perception.

In a captivating discussion, Dr. Erica Matluck, a licensed naturopathic doctor, unveils her Four Quadrants model of health that transcends traditional symptom-checking by addressing physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. She blends ancient Ayurvedic wisdom with modern healing techniques, emphasizing the importance of community and human connections. Listeners learn to navigate their nervous systems and embrace positive emotions for true wellness. The conversation also tackles the impact of technology on health, promoting conscious living in today's hyper-connected world.

In a compelling discussion, Johann Hari, author of 'Stolen Focus,' reveals the staggering impact of digital distractions on our ability to concentrate. He shares insights on how our attention spans are deteriorating and the profound effects this has on our relationships and productivity. Hari emphasizes the importance of reclaiming focus for meaningful goal achievement, drawing inspiration from Zen philosophy. Listeners will appreciate his practical strategies for navigating the attention crisis and fostering deeper connections in an increasingly distracted world.

I am delighted to welcome Steve Magness back to the show to discuss moving from survival mode to truly thriving. Modern life, with its relentless pressures and social media’s constant comparison trap, leaves many feeling isolated, inadequate, and unfulfilled. So what to do about it?Steve shares his thoughts on the ‘inner game’ - the art of intrinsic motivation and long-term fulfilment. Steve opens up about his own experience living in survival mode while being a whistleblower against Nike's Oregon project. We also tackle the shifting nature of the American Dream, from internal fulfilment to external validation, and the vital importance of 'non-attachment'.Highlights: The rise of burnout, mental health struggles, and loneliness in modern society The impact of social media on attention spans and mental health as well as feelings of inadequacy and isolation The ‘inner game’—learning to play for intrinsic motivation, not just external rewards How values and ethics guide decision-making in high-pressure environments The American Dream: from internal fulfilment to chasing external validation Sport as a metaphor for life and why self-transcendence matters more than trophies Non-attachment, the paradox of self and no-self, and the balance between flexibility and security Steve Magness episode 1 - Do Hard Things: https://pod.fo/e/1832d0Book: https://www.stevemagness.com/books/🔗 Free course on beating burnout and finding flow: https://www.simonmundie.com/beat-burnout-mini-courseOther links:My Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/bookYouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundieWebsite: simonmundie.comSubstack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Join Michael Pollan, celebrated author of 'How to Change Your Mind,' as he dives into the mind-bending world of psychedelics. He discusses how these substances can dissolve the ego, leading to transformative experiences. Pollan emphasizes the importance of surrender during such journeys and how it helps unlock profound insights. He also explores the brain's default mode network and its connection to self-identity, revealing how psychedelics can silence this network, paving the way for spiritual freedom and deeper self-awareness.

We tend to believe happiness is found when we accumulate money, success and status – but that’s actually wide of the mark. According to one of the pre-eminent happiness scientists in the world, real joy is found by tapping into the transformative power of Awe.My links:Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/bookYouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundieWebsite: simonmundie.comSubstack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/🔗 Free course on beating burnout and finding flow: https://www.simonmundie.com/beat-burnout-mini-course Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices