

Brad Hook Podcast
Bradley Hook
Discover the Brad Hook Show: a place for the curious. Each episode offers deep dives with diverse guests—from academics demystifying theories to athletes discussing grit, authors revealing their thought processes, or storytellers enchanting with tales. It's a fusion of backgrounds and ideas, aiming to provide listeners with a kaleidoscope of inspiration, knowledge, and passion.
Brad is the author of Start With Values (Penguin), founder of the Values Institute, and founder of Surfd.com, an action sports magazine. He is head of the Resilience Lab at Resilience Institute.
Brad is the author of Start With Values (Penguin), founder of the Values Institute, and founder of Surfd.com, an action sports magazine. He is head of the Resilience Lab at Resilience Institute.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 5, 2025 • 59min
What’s the Secret to Healing Trauma? — Dr. Brian Tierney
I'd love you to check out my new book, Start With Values. It's packed full of tools to help you lead a life that is aligned with your core values, reducing stress and increasing fulfillment. Find all of my links here: https://link.bradleyhook.com/brad
In this episode:
Meet Dr. Brian Tierney, a pioneering somatic psychologist, trauma resolution expert, and author of the upcoming book Visionary Somatics. Dr. Tierney shares how somatic psychology bridges the mind-body connection, revealing powerful insights about trauma, healing, and the freedom to play.
We dive into:
🔥 How somatic psychology works to resolve trauma
🧘♂️ The importance of touch and stillness in healing
🎭 Why expressive arts therapy can unlock our creative potential
💡 How humor and play transform rigidity into vitality
🌍 Why embracing our animal instincts is the key to letting go of trauma
This conversation is packed with wisdom, stories, and tools to help you step into a more embodied, joyful life.
Resources and Links
Follow Dr. Brian Tierney:
Website: https://somaticdoctor.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesomaticdoctor
Learn more about Visionary Somatics:
Introduction Course: https://www.somaticdoctor.education/introduction-to-visionary-somatics/welcome-to-the-course

Dec 27, 2024 • 48min
What’s Holding You Back from Happiness? A Guide to Creativity and Joy — Holly Smith
This episode is brought to you by my new book, Start With Values (https://startwithvalues.com/start-with-values-book/).
In this episode you will meet Holly Smith, the inspiring author of 30 Days to Happiness and founder of The Happiness Formula. Holly shares her personal journey from depression and burnout to discovering the habits that transformed her life. Together, they dive deep into actionable strategies for happiness, resilience, and the neuroscience of contentment.
⏱️ Timestamps & Key Points
00:01 Introduction – Meet Holly Smith
01:13 What is 30 Days to Happiness? Holly’s personal story and purpose
03:48 Overcoming depression and burnout: Holly’s transformative moment
06:40 The power of habit: Overcoming negative thought patterns
07:36 Joseph Dispenza’s take: Change your personality to change your reality
10:05 Defining happiness and finding purpose
12:19 Auditing bad habits and rewriting your story
16:13 Post-traumatic growth: Climbing the ladder of resilience
16:31 The Happiness Formula explained
18:28 Tools from 30 Days to Happiness: Creating your ideal day and the hour of power
21:43 The importance of white space walking and sitting in stillness
24:47 Rejuvenation through creativity and quiet time
26:56 Visualization as a tool for success: Step-by-step process
32:08 The neuroscience of happiness and neurotransmitter hacks
36:25 Physical fitness and happiness: Holly’s journey to bodybuilding
41:10 Resilience, routines, and how fitness supports mental health
44:15 Inspirations and current reads: 10X is Easier than 2X and more
47:32 How to connect with Holly and final thoughts
📚 Resources and Links
Discover more about Holly Smith and her work:
Visit her website: https://30daystohappiness.com.au/
Check out her podcast: https://30daystohappiness.com.au/podcast/
Follow Holly on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hollysmith/
Connect with Holly on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hollysmith/
Get a copy of Holly’s book 30 Days to Happiness: https://30daystohappiness.com.au/book✨ What You’ll Learn in This Episode
💡 The 30 habits that can reprogram your mind for happiness
🧠 How to break free from negative thinking patterns
🌿 The importance of white space walks and sitting in stillness
🎯 How visualization can help you achieve your goals
🔬 Practical neuroscience-based hacks for boosting happiness
🏋️♂️ Why physical fitness plays a critical role in mental wellbeing
💬 Final Thoughts
Holly reminds listeners that happiness is a choice, but it starts with self-awareness, habits, and purpose. Take time to explore your gifts, align your actions with your values, and remember—it’s never too late to begin your journey toward happiness.
🎧 Listen & Subscribe
Subscribe to the podcast on your favorite platform and leave a review to let us know what you think!

Dec 21, 2024 • 48min
How Taking Less Helps You Do More: Lessons in Simplicity — Glen Van Peski
This episode is brought to you by my new book, Start With Values.
Glen Van Peski, founder of Gossamer Gear and author of Take Less. Do More., joins Brad for an inspiring conversation about simplifying life, embracing curiosity, and finding fulfillment. From pioneering ultralight backpacking to cultivating generosity and gratitude on the trail, Glen’s story is packed with practical wisdom and memorable lessons. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast or simply looking to declutter your mind and life, this episode is a must-listen.
WHAT YOU’LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE
🎒 The philosophy behind ultralight backpacking and how it applies to life
🌟 How simplicity can unlock creativity, curiosity, and connection
💕 Memorable stories of generosity and gratitude from the trail
✨ Practical tips for creating space for gratitude and curiosity every day
🛠️ The evolution of Gossamer Gear and Glen’s unique design process
🚶 Why taking less can help you do more in every area of life
ABOUT GLEN VAN PESKI
Glen Van Peski is a trailblazer in ultralight backpacking and the founder of Gossamer Gear, a company dedicated to innovative, lightweight outdoor gear. Known for his DIY approach and resourcefulness, Glen has inspired countless adventurers to explore the outdoors with less weight and more joy. His book, Take Less. Do More., blends stories from the trail with timeless lessons in generosity, gratitude, and curiosity.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE SHOW
00:00 – Introduction: Meet Glen Van Peski
02:34 – Glen’s Journey: From Civil Engineer to Outdoor Innovator
06:00 – What is Ultralight Backpacking? Key Concepts and Challenges
10:00 – Generosity on the Trail: A Memorable Breakfast in Indiana
14:45 – Why Gratitude and Curiosity are Essential for Wellbeing
19:30 – Nature’s Healing Power: Disconnecting to Reconnect
23:15 – Applying Ultralight Principles to Everyday Life
30:04 – Creating Gossamer Gear: The Evolution of a Brand
36:34 – DIY Gear Design: Lessons from Sewing and Experimentation
40:01 – The Joy and Challenges of Writing Take Less. Do More.
45:12 – What’s Next for Glen: Snow Leopards, Road Trips, and the Himalayas
QUOTES TO INSPIRE YOU
“Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication, not just for your backpack but for your life.”
“When you take less, you create space for curiosity, gratitude, and connection.”
“Generosity doesn’t have to be grand—small acts can transform someone’s day.”
“We’ve done too good a job making life comfortable. Discomfort is where growth happens.”
RESOURCES & LINKS
📖 Take Less. Do More. by Glen Van Peski
🏞 Visit Glen’s Website
🎒 Explore Gossamer Gear
📸 Follow Glen on Instagram
📧 Email Glen Directly
ABOUT BRAD HOOK
Brad Hook is the author of Start With Values and an expert in resilience and wellbeing. With a passion for exploring what matters most in life, Brad’s conversations inspire audiences to live with clarity, intention, and creativity.
LEAVE A REVIEW
Enjoyed the episode? Leave a review on your favorite podcast platform and share it with your friends. Your support means the world!
SUBSCRIBE
Never miss an episode – subscribe now wherever you listen to podcasts!

Dec 16, 2024 • 26min
AMA: Can Starting with Values Make You More Resilient? — Brad Hook
In this special Ask Me Anything episode, I answer your most pressing questions about my book, Start With Values (Penguin), Resilience Institute, and personal development. We explore the pivotal role of values in shaping our lives, practical ways to build resilience, and daily habits that support growth and fulfillment.
Key Topics Covered:
📖 Why Write a Book About Values?
The moment that sparked Start With Values and how misalignment with our values can be measured — even with a heart rate monitor!
🧭 Living a Values-Aligned Life
How core values like fitness, kindness, and creativity can serve as daily lenses for decision-making and fulfillment.
💪 What is Resilience Training?
Practical skills to navigate life’s challenges, from managing stress to building emotional intelligence and cognitive flexibility.
🌱 Staying Motivated and Consistent
The role of intrinsic motivation, impact, and creative pursuits in maintaining consistency through life’s ups and downs.
🧘♂️ Incorporating Resilience Practices
A breakdown of a typical day — including breathwork, exercise, nutrition, and mindfulness — to support mental fitness and wellbeing.
🔑 Advice for Personal Development Beginners
Why focusing on sleep, physical fitness, and cognitive tools can kickstart your personal growth journey.
🧠 Who Inspires Me?
Insights into the lives and wisdom of people like Kelly Slater, Alan Watts, and Nelson Mandela and how they shaped my thinking.
Resources and Links
🌐 Website: https://bradleyhook.com
🌐 Website: https://resiliencei.com
📚 Book: Start With Values (available January 7, 2025)
👉 Have more questions or thoughts? Drop them in the comments or reach out via my website.

Dec 12, 2024 • 47min
What Does It Take to Scale a Brand in the Digital Age? — John Sampogna
In this episode, we meet John Sampogna, the CEO and Co-founder of Wondersauce, a leading agency specializing in brand storytelling, digital experiences, and paid media. With over 15 years of experience working with top-tier clients like L’Oréal, Brookfield, Subway, and Golf.com, John shares invaluable insights on how to create brands that thrive in the digital world.
This episode is brought to you by Brad's new book, Start With Values. Find out more here: https://startwithvalues.com/start-with-values-book/.
We explore:
📊 Balancing Paid Media and Organic Storytelling – How to blend immediate results with long-term brand building for sustainable growth.
📝 Crafting a Compelling Brand Story vs. Product Story – Tips on distinguishing your narrative to connect authentically with your audience.
📈 Influencer Marketing Insights – How to leverage influencers effectively, from micro-partnerships to avoiding brand dilution.
🔍 SEO and the Future of Language Model Optimization (LMO) – The evolving landscape of search engines and AI-driven discovery.
✂️ Simplifying Your Messaging – Strategies for cutting through the noise with clarity and impact.
🗣️ The Power of Personal Branding – Why founders should share their stories and how to build a meaningful personal brand.
John’s approach is clear: Focus on simplicity, authenticity, and a balanced strategy. Whether you’re a marketer, entrepreneur, or someone looking to scale your brand, this episode is packed with practical wisdom.
Connect with John Sampogna and Wondersauce
🔗 John’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnsampogna/
🔗 Wondersauce LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wondersauce/
🌐 Wondersauce Website: www.wondersauce.com
👉 Subscribe to The Brad Hook Podcast to catch this and future episodes! 🎙️

Dec 3, 2024 • 50min
How Do I Overcome Fear? Insights from a Combat Veteran and Spy — Mario Bekes
✨ How do I upgrade my potential? Meet the Guinness World Record holder, Mario Bekes! ✨
Join Bradley Hook as he welcomes Mario Bekes, a Guinness World Records holder, former military intelligence operative, and bestselling author. They dive into Mario’s extraordinary journey—from 1,800 days in combat to building a successful business in Sydney, Australia. Discover actionable lessons on courage, overcoming fear, and hacking the human brain for success.
🙏 This episode is brought to you by Brad's forthcoming book, Start With Values (https://startwithvalues.com/start-with-values-book/). To support this show, we'd love it if you could order your copy. If you do, please email hello@bradleyhook.com, and we'll send you a thank-you gift. Connect with Brad here: https://link.bradleyhook.com/brad.
✅ Topics Covered in This Episode:
🛡️ How 1,800 days of combat shaped Mario’s mindset
🎯 Overcoming fear and stepping into your greatness
🔎 The secrets of military intelligence and social engineering
🚀 Breaking a Guinness World Record: 55 hours of nonstop podcasting
🌍 Lessons in resilience, leadership, and loyalty
💡 About Mario Bekes:
✳️ Guinness World Records Holder (2023)
✳️ Ambassador and Activist for Humanity
✳️ Experienced Military Intelligence and Diplomatic Security Operative
✳️ Successful business owner in Sydney, Australia
✳️ Bestselling Author & Academic
📌 Mario’s Links:
🎥 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarioBekes
🎙️ Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/mario-bekes2
📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082829919697
📣 Connect with Mario Bekes for More Inspiring Content:
“Be courageous. Face your fears and fulfill your potential.”
🔗 Stay Connected:
Don’t miss future episodes of The Brad Hook Podcast. Hit subscribe and explore more stories of resilience and transformation! 🌟

Nov 30, 2024 • 52min
Biohacking and Consciousness: Upgrade Your Life and Business — Dave Asprey
🚀 Tune in as Brad Hook sits down with the legendary Dave Asprey, the father of biohacking, visionary entrepreneur, and longevity expert. Together, they explore the secrets to optimizing your body, mind, and business. From Dave’s incredible journey in Silicon Valley to founding Bulletproof Coffee and sparking a global biohacking movement, this conversation is packed with actionable insights and transformative ideas.
🙏 This episode is brought to you by Brad's forthcoming book, Start With Values (https://startwithvalues.com/start-with-values-book/). To support this show, we'd love it if you could order your copy. If you do, please email hello@bradleyhook.com, and we'll send you a thank-you gift. Connect with Brad here: https://link.bradleyhook.com/brad.
🌟 Key Topics
🔥 Biohacking Origins: How Dave transformed his health and started a global movement.
🧠 Reprogramming the Mind: The power of neurofeedback and the 40 Years of Zen program.
💡 Entrepreneurship Meets Wellness: Why thriving in business starts with thriving in life.
🌍 The Bigger Picture: Consciousness, health, and creating a better world through biohacking.
📖 Sneak Peek: Highlights from Dave’s upcoming book, Heavily Meditated.
🌈 Key Takeaways
💪 Optimize Your Energy: Better health creates better businesses.
✨ Master Emotional Triggers: Align thoughts, emotions, and actions for success.
📊 Use Metrics Wisely: Health KPIs like inflammation, sleep, and recovery are as critical as business metrics.
🎉 Play More, Thrive More: Joy, humor, and play unlock creativity and agility.
🌌 Psychedelics with Purpose: Tools like ketamine and mushrooms can accelerate growth but require intention.
📚 Resources Mentioned
☕ Danger Coffee: https://www.dangercoffee.com
🧘 40 Years of Zen: https://www.40yearsofzen.com
⚡ Upgrade Labs: https://www.ownanupgradelabs.com
👓 TrueDark Glasses: https://www.truedark.com
💬 Final Quote
“The goal of life is not to accumulate power but to radiate it.”
👉 Learn more about Dave and his work at https://www.daveasprey.com. Don’t forget to subscribe to the podcast and leave a review!

Nov 21, 2024 • 49min
Should Every Business Owner Have a Personal Brand? — Heather Porter
This episode is brought to you by Brad's forthcoming book, Start With Values (https://startwithvalues.com/start-with-values-book/). To support this show, we'd love it if you could order your copy. If you do, please email hello@bradleyhook.com, and we'll send you a thank-you gift. Connect with Brad here: https://link.bradleyhook.com/brad.
🚀 In this episode, we’re joined by Heather Porter, a digital marketing expert with 15 years of experience and founder of Website Love, a website development and social media agency. Learn more at https://websitelove.com.au.
📚 Heather is an Amazon Kindle #1 bestseller, co-author of four business books, host of That Social Media Show on Bizversity, and The Hustle Rebellion podcast.
💡 She’s one of only four Meta Certified Lead Trainers in Australia, teaching digital marketing for Meta and at the University of Sydney’s Centre for Continuing Education.
🎤 Fun fact: Heather once managed Tony Robbins’ Trainers and ran several of his events!
What we cover in this episode:
👉 The current state of digital marketing: AI vs. authentic content
👉 Building a business that supports the lifestyle you want
👉 Insights into personal branding for entrepreneurs and business owners
👉 Stories and lessons from working with Tony Robbins and other thought leaders
👉 Practical tips for creating a scalable online presence
Resources and Links Mentioned:
🎁 Free resources from Heather, including her podcast and marketing training:
https://websitelove.com.au/free-resources/
📱 Follow Heather on socials:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherrporter/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherporter/
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heatherrporter
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/findfameonline
Final Message from Heather:
✨ “Be more of yourself. Stop trying to be the next Tony Robbins or Oprah. Look inward and develop who you are, because the world needs you.”
🎧 Tune in now for actionable advice and inspiring stories to help you grow your business, build your brand, and find fulfillment on your journey!

Nov 10, 2024 • 51min
Should We Let Kids Experience Adversity? — Dr. Ashley Poklar
This episode is brought to you by Brad's forthcoming book, Start With Values (https://startwithvalues.com/start-with-values-book/). To support this show, we'd love it if you could order your copy. If you do, please email hello@bradleyhook.com, and we'll send you a thank-you gift. Connect with Brad here: https://link.bradleyhook.com/brad.
In this episode, Brad Hook speaks with Dr. Ashley Poklar, a psychologist with deep expertise in supporting at-risk youth. From her early work as a special education teacher to her current advocacy for children affected by exploitation and trauma, Ashley shares practical strategies for building resilience. The discussion covers the role of relationships in fostering a resilient mindset, why self-care must be preventative, and the shift from resilience to antifragility, where youth emerge stronger from adversity.
Resources:
Ashley Poklar LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-e-poklar-phd/
Foundation Sentinel: www.foundationsentinel.org
Ashley’s Consulting Services: www.apoklarponders.org
Key Themes:
Modeling resilience through adult behavior
Creating safe environments for post-traumatic growth
Encouraging resilience and antifragility in children
Practical tips for managing tech and fostering healthy habits
Dive in for insights on resilience, parenting, and supporting youth through life’s challenges.

Nov 5, 2024 • 49min
Can Introverts Become Thought Leaders? — Christina Wedgwood
This episode is brought to you by Brad's forthcoming book, Start With Values (https://startwithvalues.com/start-with-values-book/). To support this show, we'd love it if you could order your copy. If you do, please email hello@bradleyhook.com, and we'll send you a thank-you gift. Connect with Brad here: https://link.bradleyhook.com/brad.
In this episode, Brad Hook chats with Christina Wedgwood, a thought leadership expert, writer, and the founder of Intelligent Ink, New Zealand’s first agency focused on thought leadership. Christina discusses the journey to impactful influence and shares insights from her book, Better, guiding listeners on how to turn purpose into powerful ideas. Together, they explore the importance of authenticity, embracing complexity, and breaking free from conventional thought leadership archetypes.
Connect with Christina:
https://intelligentink.kartra.com/page/Better
https://www.linkedin.com/in/christina-wedgwood/
https://www.intelligentink.co.nz/
Christina challenges common barriers to thought leadership, highlighting how everyone—regardless of title or background—can make a difference. She emphasizes the role of “collective ideascapes” and the need for diverse perspectives to create meaningful change. Filled with practical advice, this episode is a roadmap for anyone seeking to share their voice with purpose and integrity.
Key Takeaways:
Pathways to Influence: Thought leadership has many forms; everyone has a unique path to amplify their ideas and insights.
Evolving Thought Leadership: Staying open to learning and evolving thinking is essential for effective, authentic leadership.
Embracing Complexity and Uncertainty: Address issues with nuance and transparency, engaging audiences honestly about knowledge limits.
Authenticity in Leadership: Genuine authenticity builds lasting trust and supports sustainable, impactful leadership.
Building Confidence: Confidence grows with experience and feedback—focus on the positive impact of your work.