

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

Aug 23, 2024 • 1h 14min
Positive Parenting and the Importance of Unlearning for Personal Growth — Dr. Jessica Koehler
Dr. Jessica Koehler, an Associate Faculty Member in the University of Arizona Global Campus Psychology Department, holds a Ph.D. in School Psychology from the University of Maryland, where she researched teacher beliefs. Her background includes positions at Georgetown University, managing research assistants, and conducting neuropsychological evaluations in a functional neuroimaging lab. As a psychologist in diverse school settings, she conducted comprehensive psycho-educational assessments alongside roles as an undergraduate and graduate psychology instructor and social skills program evaluator. As a homeschooling parent and blogger for Psychology Today (https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/beyond-school-walls), she is deeply invested in bridging the gap between psychology as a science and its practical applications in learning and everyday life.
In this Episode:
In this engaging episode, Brad Hook (https://link.bradleyhook.com/brad) interviews Jessica Koehler, a psychologist and educator with a deep understanding of child development, education, and well-being. Jessica's journey from traditional school psychology to homeschooling her two sons provides a unique perspective on divergent parenting and the application of psychological principles in everyday life. Her insights on customizing education to fit individual needs and the importance of positive parenting resonate throughout the episode.
Jessica discusses various topics ranging from the benefits and challenges of homeschooling to the practical application of ancient wisdom in modern life. She emphasizes the significance of focusing on what we can control and the impact of diet, sleep, and exercise on mental health. Utilizing Martin Seligman's PERMA model, she outlines strategies for achieving holistic well-being and shares personal anecdotes to illustrate her points. The importance of curiosity, lifelong learning, and scaffolding is also explored, making this episode a rich resource for parents, educators, and psychology enthusiasts.
Key Takeaways:
Divergent Parenting: Emphasizes the importance of tailoring education and parenting styles to fit individual children's needs and family dynamics.
Holistic Well-being: Introduces Martin Seligman's PERMA model and discusses the significance of balancing positive emotion, engagement, relationships, meaning, and accomplishment.
Technology in Education: Advocates for the judicious use of technology like ChatGPT to enhance learning and productivity while maintaining clear boundaries.
Ancient Wisdom: Highlights the relevance of Stoic philosophy and cognitive-behavioral principles in fostering mental resilience and emotional regulation.
Nutrition and Mental Health: Explores the connection between diet and mental well-being, sharing personal experiences of the benefits of a low-sugar, high-protein diet.
Quotes:
"All of life is learning."
"Figure out how we can help them use [technology] in positive ways rather than avoiding it entirely."
"Today my goal is to be better than I was the day before."
"Between stimulus and response, there is a space… and in that space is our freedom."
"Focusing on what we can control and letting go of what we can't is a powerful tool for well-being."
Connect with Jessica:
Jessica's Blog on Psychology Today
Jessica Koehler on X (formerly Twitter)
Jessica on LinkedIn
Jessica's Website: koehleracademy.com
Books Mentioned:
"The Obstacle is the Way" by Ryan Holiday
"Brain Energy" by Chris Palmer
Discover more about Jessica's perspective on education, mental health, and well-being by tuning into this in-depth episode. Stay tuned for more insightful discussions on holistic development and innovative approaches to learning and growth.

Aug 17, 2024 • 56min
Sustainable Action and Empowered Consumer Choices — Lindsey Coffey
Meet our Guest: Lindsey Coffey
Head of Community Engagement and Impact Awareness at EcoBranders
2020 Miss Earth, the first U.S. representative to win the title
Environmental activist, model, and advocate for sustainable practices
Background in Political Science and Communications
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Brad Hook connects with Lindsey Coffey, an environmental activist and the head of Community Engagement and Impact Awareness at EcoBranders. Lindsey shares her passion for sustainability, discussing the vital connection between human consumption patterns and the health of our natural ecosystems. Drawing on her experiences from a small Pennsylvania town to the global stage as Miss Earth, Lindsey emphasizes the power of mindful consumption and the role of consumers in driving market trends and corporate responsibility.
Lindsey also highlights the importance of ethical marketing, transparent business practices, and adopting a circular economy model. She encourages listeners to engage with their communities, participate in legislative processes, and take small steps towards a more sustainable lifestyle, proving that sustainability and profitability can coexist.
Connect with Lindsey:
www.ecobranders.com
www.lindsey-coffey.com
www.instagram.com/lindseymariecoffey
https://www.linkedin.com/company/ecobranders/
Key Takeaways:
Mindful Consumption: Prioritize quality over quantity and support companies with ethical practices to make a positive environmental impact.
Empowered Consumer Choices: Consumers, through their purchasing decisions and advocacy, have the power to shape market trends and drive corporate responsibility.
Ethical Marketing: Transparency and honesty in marketing are essential for building genuine connections and long-term consumer trust.
Circular Economy: To reduce environmental impact, businesses should adopt models that ensure products are recyclable, upcycled, or compostable.
Community Engagement: Local activism and participation in legislative processes are key to driving systemic change towards sustainability.
Notable Quotes:
“We are the ones who decide if we want to fall or if we want to climb.” — Lindsey Coffey
“Slow action is better than no action, and you don’t have to go green overnight.” — Lindsey Coffey
“Consumers really underestimate the power behind their purchases because they control market trends.” — Lindsey Coffey
“Greenwashing is when a company portrays themselves as being more sustainable than they are. Green wishing is when a company genuinely wants to create a positive impact but lacks the awareness or knowledge to know how.” — Lindsey Coffey
“The interconnectedness between nature and consumption is a complex relationship where human consumption patterns directly impact our natural ecosystems.” — Lindsey Coffey
Listen to the full episode to delve deeper into Lindsey Coffey's insights, and stay tuned for more enlightening content that inspires mindful action toward a sustainable future.

Aug 10, 2024 • 49min
The Skin Expert: Holistic, Science-Backed Skincare Made Simple — Dr. Mary Alice Mina
Meet Dr. Mary Alice Mina:
Harvard-trained, double board-certified dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon
Co-owner of Baucom & Mina Derm Surgery in Atlanta, Georgia
Host of the podcast “The Skin Real”
Connect with Dr. Mina:
Website: theskinreal.com
Free resource: theskinreal.com/habits;
Instagram: @drminaskin
Episode Summary:
In this insightful episode, Brad Hook (https://link.bradleyhook.com/brad) welcomes Dr. Mary Alice Mina, an accomplished dermatologist and dermatologic surgeon, to discuss comprehensive skincare routines, the importance of holistic health for skin vitality, and graceful aging. Dr. Mina shares her journey into the world of dermatology, her inspirations for starting “The Skin Real” podcast, and how she aims to clear up the confusion surrounding skincare with scientific and straightforward advice.
Key Takeaways:
Holistic Skincare: Healthy skin starts from within and involves maintaining overall body health.
Simple Routine: Essential skincare components include a gentle cleanser, moisturizer, and sunscreen.
Lifestyle Impact: Diet, stress levels, sleep, and physical activity significantly impact skin health.
Cosmetic Procedures: Options like Botox and fillers can be done subtly to maintain a natural, youthful appearance.
Grateful Aging: Embrace aging gracefully and appreciate each season of life.

Aug 7, 2024 • 52min
Integrating Martial Arts Principles in Mental Health and Addiction Recovery — Eric Fisher
Eric Fisher is a certified counselor specializing in trauma therapy with over 13 years of experience in the US and Canada. He is an expert in accelerated resolution therapy (ART) and the author of “The Martial Art of Recovery: Self-Mastery Practices to Subdue Addiction and Achieve Mental Wellness.” Eric holds black belts in both American Kenpo and Wado-Ryu, and he integrates martial arts principles into his therapeutic practices.
Connect with Eric at:
Website: www.recoveryartscounselling.com
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/eric-m-fisher-5b83724a
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/RecoveryArtsCounselling
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/recoveryartscounselling/
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/ericfisherauthor
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Brad Hook (https://link.bradleyhook.com/brad) interviews Eric Fisher, exploring the intersection of trauma recovery, addiction, and martial arts. Eric shares his journey and insights on how martial arts can empower individuals to overcome addiction and achieve mental wellness. The conversation covers various topics, including the principles of self-respect, control, healthy aggression, and the effectiveness of Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART).
Key Topics Discussed:
Introduction to Eric Fisher and his background in trauma therapy and martial arts.
The empowering principles of martial arts and their application in addiction recovery.
An overview of Accelerated Resolution Therapy (ART) and its effectiveness.
Practical techniques for managing trauma, addiction, and mental health challenges.
The role of curiosity, resilience, and self-compassion in overcoming trauma.

Aug 1, 2024 • 1h 9min
Unlock Confidence Through Your Core Values — Michael Glassock
Michael Glassock is a seasoned coach, speaker, and podcast host who specializes in aiding professionals in health and social care to find joy and fulfillment in their careers within an eight-week period. Michael has extensive experience in corporate finance and the NHS, and he now leverages his expertise to inspire others through his coaching practice and his role at a university career center. He is an ICF-accredited coach focused on helping individuals live life on their own terms.
https://www.michaelglassockcoaching.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelglassock
https://www.instagram.com/michaelglassockcoaching
In this episode, Brad Hook (https://link.bradleyhook.com/brad) interviews Michael Glassock, a coach who empowers individuals in the health and social care sectors to rekindle their passion for their careers. Michael shares his transformative journey from a career in finance and the NHS to establishing his coaching practice, highlighting pivotal moments such as his father’s Alzheimer's diagnosis and his dedication to lifelong learning. The episode delves into Michael's approach to coaching, the importance of accreditation, and the distinction between coaching and mentoring, offering invaluable insights for anyone interested in the coaching industry.
The conversation also explores the profound impact of core values on personal and professional satisfaction. Michael emphasizes the necessity of aligning one’s actions with their core values and offers practical advice for uncovering and living by these values. The duo also discusses the role of martial arts in shaping discipline and respect, the nuances of group coaching, and strategies for building confidence and handling stress. Throughout the episode, Michael's passion for inspiring others to live authentically and pursue their true calling shines through, making this a must-listen for anyone seeking to lead a more fulfilling life.
Aligning Actions with Values: The significance of living in accordance with your core values to achieve fulfillment and reduce stress.
Coaching vs. Mentoring: Understanding the key differences, with coaching being a more collaborative process and mentoring being more directive.
Building Confidence: Overcoming fear and stress through small, actionable steps and maintaining a consistent, curious mindset.
Martial Arts Influence: How disciplines like karate instill respect, discipline, and confidence, which are applicable in professional settings.
Group Coaching Dynamics: Effective techniques for creating a safe, open environment in group coaching sessions to foster collective growth.
"I get to wake up every day and inspire people to do what inspires them." - Michael Glassock
"My purpose, my why, is ultimately to help inspire people to do what inspires them." - Michael Glassock
"Coaching helps you go from where you are in your present day and moves you past barriers towards the future." - Michael Glassock
"If they can be one step closer to living life on their own terms after this conversation, then I think we've both done quite a good job there." - Michael Glassock
"If you are curious and consistent, God willing, you will be able to achieve whatever you set out to achieve." - Michael Glassock
Explore the transformative insights shared by Michael Glassock in this episode to inspire your own journey towards living life on your own terms. Stay tuned for more uplifting conversations from the podcast!

Jul 27, 2024 • 58min
Conflict as a Creative Force: Embracing Tension for Transformation — Jennifer Jones-Patulli
In this episode, Brad Hook interviews Jennifer Jones-Patulli, an expert in conflict management and human systems dynamics. Jennifer shares her insights on transforming conflict from a destructive force into a creative and productive one. With over two decades of experience, Jennifer brings a wealth of knowledge on how leaders can harness the energy of conflict to foster innovation, growth, and strong relational dynamics within organizations.
Key Topics Discussed:
How Jennifer developed her unique approach to conflict management
Defining and framing conflict within systems- Practical strategies for leaders to manage conflict constructively
The role of self-awareness and empathy in conflict resolution
The future of conflict management in organizational leadership
Key Takeaways:
Conflict is tension in systems and can be directed positively or negatively.
Frame conflict as a creative opportunity rather than a threat.
Self-awareness and empathy are crucial in managing conflict effectively.
Transform assumptions into questions to facilitate productive dialogue.
Embrace uncertainty by conducting small, responsible experiments.
Notable Quotes:
"Conflict can be an amazing creative force in your life if you engage with it in a certain way."
"Conflict is tension in a system… it can be whatever you make it based on how you handle it."
"Dealing with uncertainty is about knowing that we can take small, responsible risks, that we can do small controlled experiments that build on each other."
"Can you position yourself as shoulder to shoulder with that individual rather than adversarial position face to face?"
"The creative potential of conflict… thinking about our long-term relationships and all the things you've been through that have made not only you stronger but us stronger."
Resources and Links:
Connect with Jennifer Jones-Patulli on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifer-jones-patulli-ma-hsdp-a3a2027a/
Visit Jennifer’s website: https://productiveconflict.us/
Follow Jennifer on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/productive_conflict/
Books by Jennifer Jones-Patulli:
"Reconciling the Carrot and the Stick"
"The Essential Mary Parker Follett: Ideas We Need Today" (edited volume): https://amzn.to/4foUG4j

Jul 20, 2024 • 57min
Holistic Entrepreneurship: Integrating Mindset and Strategy for Success — Phoebe Pierpoint
Phoebe Pierpoint is a mindset coach who specializes in helping entrepreneurs reclaim their time and energy to fully enjoy their lives and businesses. With over a decade of experience in various business roles and operating seven-figure companies, Phoebe discovered that while business strategy is essential, it constitutes only 10% of success. The remaining 90% lies in mindset. Phoebe has developed a unique method that combines business growth strategies, mindset work, and self-mastery practices, promoting growth not just in business but across all life areas.
Episode Summary:
In this enlightening episode of the Brad Hook Podcast, Phoebe Pierpoint joins us to discuss the critical role of mindset in entrepreneurial success. Phoebe shares her journey from high-stress business roles to operating successful companies and ultimately helping other entrepreneurs find balance and fulfillment. She explains her holistic approach, which integrates mindset and strategy, and offers practical advice on preventing burnout, aligning business with personal values, and achieving sustainable growth.
Key Takeaways:
1. The Importance of Mindset: Understanding that business strategy alone is insufficient; mindset plays a crucial role in executing these strategies effectively.
2. Holistic Approach: Combining mindset work with business strategies can lead to comprehensive personal and professional growth.
3. Preventing Burnout: Identifying specific stressors and addressing them can help prevent burnout and maintain high performance.
4. Customizing Strategies: Tailoring business strategies and mindset work to individual needs ensures long-term success.
5. Visualization and Flow: Utilizing visualization techniques and creating rituals can enhance focus, productivity, and the achievement of goals.
Topics Covered:
- Phoebe's personal journey and career evolution
- The significance of mindset in business success
- Practical strategies to integrate mindset work into daily business practices
- Techniques to prevent and manage burnout
- The role of visualization and creating effective habits
- Aligning personal values with business goals for holistic growth
Quotes:
- "Your business cannot grow beyond your current mindset."
- "Integrating mindset and strategy leads to growth in all areas of life."
- "We don't avoid actions; we avoid emotions."
Connect with Us:
Phoebe Pierpoint
- TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@uncage_me
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uncage_me/
- Website: https://uncageme.com/
Brad Hook
- https://link.bradleyhook.com/brad
Subscribe & Review:
If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more listeners and continue to provide valuable content.
Thank you for tuning in! We hope this episode inspires you to take your business and mindset to the next level. Stay tuned for more insightful episodes.

Jul 18, 2024 • 1h 1min
The Mindset Coach: A Formula for Incrementally Transforming Health and Business — Mark Talukdar
Mark Talukdar is a former software engineer turned business and mindset coach. Born in India and educated in the USA, he has a rich background in the IT sector. At the age of 37, Mark experienced a transformative journey that reversed his health issues and led him to win his first bodybuilding competition. He now specializes in helping tech professionals, solopreneurs, and entrepreneurs through his company, Prosperity. Mark's inspiring story underscores his belief in small, consistent improvements and the power of mindset.
Resources:
Website: https://www.prosperitym.com/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarkTalukdar
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marktalukdar/
Episode Summary:
In this episode, Brad (https://link.bradleyhook.com/brad) connects with Mark Talukdar, a former software engineer who switched paths to become a successful business and mindset coach. Mark takes us through his incredible journey, from dealing with severe health issues to winning bodybuilding competitions. He emphasizes the importance of incremental improvements and how a 1% weekly growth can result in a complete transformation over time. Mark also discusses the role of mindset in setting and achieving goals and how breaking down a large goal into smaller, manageable tasks can lead to success.
Mark's insights extend beyond fitness and health as he delves into his professional evolution from a shy software engineer to an outgoing salesperson and finally a business coach. Key takeaways from the conversation include the importance of authenticity in selling, the necessity of planning and discipline, and the benefits of acting out roles to overcome labels. Mark's story is a testament to the power of showing up, being consistent, and staying true to oneself. This episode is packed with actionable advice for anyone looking to make significant changes in their life and career.
Key Takeaways:
Consistent Incremental Improvement: Aim for 1% improvement weekly, leading to significant long-term transformation.
Authentic Selling: Genuine honesty and deep-level conversations create meaningful connections and successful sales.
Mindset and Discipline: Combining a strong mindset with disciplined planning and work ethic is key to achieving major goals.
Acting as a Tool for Change: Use acting as a low-pressure way to experiment with new behaviors and overcome self-imposed labels.
Balancing Health and Career: Effective time and energy management, along with smart prioritization, can help maintain balance across various aspects of life.
Dive into the full episode for a deeper understanding of Mark Talukdar's inspiring journey and actionable tips for personal and professional growth. Stay tuned for more enlightening content from our podcast series!

Jul 10, 2024 • 58min
The Dream Expert: Understand and Leverage the Power of Dreams — Athena Laz
In this episode, host Brad Hook (https://link.bradleyhook.com/brad) meets Athena Laz (https://www.athenalaz.com/), a bestselling author, psychologist, and expert in the fields of dreams, spirituality, intuition, and the nature of consciousness. Known for her groundbreaking books, The Alchemy of Your Dreams (https://amzn.to/3zJTMPb) and The Deliberate Dreamers Journal (https://amzn.to/3XYQfa8), her works have been translated into over twelve languages worldwide. As a dream teacher and intuitive psychologist, Athena has a wealth of experience helping individuals explore their inner worlds and the larger, non-physical realms of consciousness.
Episode Summary:
Join us for an enlightening episode with Athena Laz, a leading expert in dreams, spirituality, and consciousness. Athena dives deep into the significance of dreamwork, lucid dreaming, and the vast potential that our dreams hold. Throughout the discussion, she shows how paying attention to our dreams can provide profound guidance and personal growth. Athena also shares personal experiences and practical tips for cultivating better sleep hygiene and setting the stage for richer, more insightful dreams.
During the conversation, Athena elucidates the science and mysticism behind why we dream, touching upon various perspectives from neuroscience to spiritual practices. She explores the concept of lucid dreaming, offering advice on how anyone can begin to practice it. Athena also provides fascinating insights into how our dream states can enhance waking life, aiding in emotional integration, creativity, and even physical healing. Join us as we delve into the mysterious and transformative world of dreams.
Key Takeaways:
Importance of Sleep Hygiene: Practices such as limiting screen time before bed and maintaining a clean sleep environment are crucial for cultivating productive dream states.
Lucid Dreaming Techniques: Regular reality testing during the day can help prime the mind for lucid dreaming.
Dream Incubation: Asking your dreaming mind for specific guidance before sleep can lead to impactful, insightful dreams.
Healing through Dreams: Personal anecdote about using lucid dreaming for physical healing, highlighting its potential beyond just psychological benefits.
Integrated View of Consciousness: Both waking and dreaming states of consciousness are interconnected, and exploring non-physical awareness can lead to deeper self-understanding.
Engage with the full episode for more in-depth insights and stay tuned for more enriching conversations.

Jul 5, 2024 • 51min
How AI and Multarity Thinking Can Enhance Human Connection — Dr. Ginger Carlson
Dr. Ginger Carlson is the co-founder of Mobius Dynamics and the CEO of the Multarity Project. An international speaker, educator, leader, and award-winning author, Dr. Carlson has extensively presented and written on creativity, communication, growth, and transformation. Her work aims to revolutionize dialogue, data visualization, and empathy building to bridge societal divisions.
Episode Summary:
In this episode, host Brad Hook (https://link.bradleyhook.com/brad) welcomes Dr. Ginger Carlson, who explores the transformative power of AI in facilitating human connection, empathy, and understanding. With her extensive background in education, dialogue coaching, and organizational leadership, Dr. Carlson unveils how the Multarity Project (https://www.multarityproject.com/) harnesses AI to visualize multiple perspectives, fostering empathy and innovation in various spheres, including mental health, conflict resolution, and education.
Throughout the conversation, they explore the intersection of AI and emotional intelligence, showing how technology can enhance human capabilities. Dr. Carlson shares insights on the crucial role of empathy in today's polarized world and emphasizes the significance of nurturing curiosity and flexible thinking in education. Drawing from her experiences, she describes how visual representations created by AI can lead to profound personal and organizational insights. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of AI-human collaboration, the importance of empathy, and innovative approaches to dialogue and problem-solving.
Key Takeaways:
Harnessing AI for Emotional Intelligence: AI technology can be powerful in fostering human connection and empathy by visualizing multiple perspectives and emotional contexts.
Creating Safe Spaces for Vulnerability: The importance of an environment where people feel comfortable to express and share their perspectives without fear of judgment.
Empathy through Multipolar Thinking: Embracing multiple perspectives enriches understanding and empathy, essential in addressing complex societal issues.
Future of Education and Flexible Thinking: Education should nurture curiosity and flexible thinking to prepare future generations for rapid technological and societal changes.
Personal and Organizational Growth: Visual representations created by AI can help individuals and organizations gain deeper insights, encouraging personal growth and more empathetic leadership.
Notable Quotes:
"It is really about understanding yourself deeper and being open to the idea that other people can have their perspective, too." - Ginger Carlson
"The technology is at our fingertips for what we want to do around solving these human problems." - Ginger Carlson
"Every time there's reporting that they grow in empathy for the other perspectives that exist around this issue." - Ginger Carlson
"If we can't think in multiple perspectives, we're going to be at a disadvantage." - Ginger Carlson
"So that state of curiosity and continuing to nurture it as we grow is essential." - Ginger Carlson
Resources:
* Multarity Project Website: https://multiarityproject.com
* Dr. Ginger Carlson's Personal Website: https://gingercarlson.com
* Start with Values - Values App, Course, and Book by Brad: (https://startwithvalues.com)
Journey with us as we explore how AI can revolutionize human connection and empathy. Tune in to discover the future of dialogue, the power of flexible thinking, and how nurturing curiosity can transform education. Don't forget to check out the links in the show notes for more insights and stay tuned for more enlightening content from our series.