

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

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.

Nov 1, 2024 • 55min
Generosity: A Superpower for Personal and Business Success — Dr. Nicole F. Roberts
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.
Dr. Nicole F. Roberts, author of Generosity Wins: How and Why this Game-Changing Superpower Drives Our Success, is a transformative figure in health, human rights, and philanthropy. As founder of Health & Human Rights Strategies and Executive Director of Feed A Billion, she brings decades of experience advising leaders worldwide—from presidents and diplomats to athletes and billionaires. Dr. Roberts holds a doctorate in public health and a master’s in public policy, and her work spans global crisis recovery, poverty alleviation, and advocacy for human rights. She also hosts The Global Good Podcast and writes for Forbes, sharing her insights on how generosity drives success and positive change.
Connect with Dr. Nicole:
generositywins.us
Instagram: @nicole.f.roberts
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-nicole-f-roberts/
In this compelling episode, Nicole Roberts delves into the transformative power of generosity, exploring how acts of giving can replenish personal well-being and foster success. Nicole, who co-wrote "Generosity Wins," discusses her journey through the research of generosity's impact on mental and physical health, citing studies that measure the benefits of giving without the expectation of return. This episode uncovers an intriguing balance between generosity towards others and oneself, emphasizing that 50% of this practice should be aimed inward to maintain one’s well-being.
This insightful conversation reveals Nicole's extensive experience in public health and international nonprofits, illustrating how structures like public-private partnerships can revolutionize community support systems. With a career steeped in the intricacies of human behavior and societal enhancement, she offers a unique lens on the global implications of generosity. Nicole also touches on her role in addressing global issues like food security and clean water accessibility, urging for a more collaborative, empathetic, and generous world. Listen for a deeper understanding of generosity as a personal and universal superpower, impacting everything from individual lives to global business strategies.
The concept of generosity is deeply linked to emotional and physical wellbeing, with acts of self-balancing giving revitalizing both personal and professional realms.
Public-private partnerships facilitate groundbreaking advancements in community development and resource allocation, leveraging diverse expertise for global good.
Generosity among individuals and within communities fosters trust, cooperation, and resilience against adversity, strengthening the social fabric.
Reflecting on personal values and creating intentional practices can enhance both one's life purpose and ability to contribute positively to society.
Maintaining a generative mindset, where one strives for balance between giving to others and self-care, leads to a more fulfilling and impactful life.

Oct 24, 2024 • 49min
The Power of Peptides and the Keys to Regenerative Health — Kimberly Verbeke
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.
Kimberly Verbeke is a respected naturopathic practitioner based in Bernie, Texas, where she runs a successful health clinic. With a background in geriatrics, Kimberly has dedicated her career to increasing the quality of life for her patients through an emphasis on longevity and holistic health. Her expertise includes a range of groundbreaking treatments, such as IV therapies, peptide bioregulators, and more. As a former endurance athlete, Kimberly draws from her personal journey and health challenges to support her patients in achieving optimal health.
Connect with Kimberly
Website: www.avita-wellness.com
IG: https://www.instagram.com/kimberlyverbekewellness/
Email: kimberly@avitabydrv.com
In this episode
Join host Brad Hook as he sits down with Kimberly Verbeke, a renowned naturopathic practitioner dedicated to helping individuals attain longevity and optimal health. Through her clinic, Kimberly Verbeke uses unconventional methods to tackle health challenges and encourages patients not to lose hope, emphasizing the body's remarkable capacity for self-healing. The episode delves into her unique perspective, where regenerative health is discussed, emphasizing root-cause approaches to illness and the potential emotional underpinnings of physical ailments.
Throughout the conversation, Kimberly shares her journey from a health-conscious upbringing to becoming an expert in combatting chronic stress, sleep deprivation, and hormone dysfunction. She explains the transformative potential of peptide bioregulators and other innovative therapies in enhancing the body's natural repair systems. Utilizing terms like naturopathic medicine, regenerative health, and peptide therapies, this episode uncovers how addressing chronic stressors can significantly improve one's quality of life, making it an invaluable listen for those looking to biohack their health.
Takeaways
The body's innate ability to heal emphasizes not losing hope when facing health challenges.
Regenerative health adopts a root-cause approach, factoring in emotional and physical aspects.
Peptide bioregulators offer promising avenues in repairing cellular structures and promoting longevity.
Lifestyle choices, including adequate sleep, proper nutrition, and exercise, are pivotal for lasting health.
Embracing moderate approaches to health and diet can contribute significantly to enjoying a long, fulfilling life.

Oct 19, 2024 • 43min
Building a Meditation Practice for a Balanced, Mindful Life — Jeff Patterson
This episode is brought to you by Brad's forthcoming book, Start With Values (https://startwithvalues.com/). 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.
Jeff Patterson is a seasoned meditation and martial arts expert with over 36 years of experience in the field. He has dedicated much of his life to studying and teaching these arts, running an academy in Portland, Oregon, where he has empowered over 26,000 students through meditative practices. Jeff is passionate about integrating meditation into everyday life and has authored several books, including his most recent work, "The Yielding Warrior." He is also the founder of a comprehensive online meditation program focused on tailoring meditation practices to individual needs.
In this episode, meditation and martial arts expert Jeff Patterson joins host Brad Hook to delve into the transformative power of meditation. Jeff discusses how meditation can be seamlessly integrated into daily routines to enhance both mental and physical well-being. Throughout the conversation, Jeff draws on decades of experience to unpack the profound benefits of meditation practices, emphasizing that one does not need to retire to a cave to master these arts.
Jeff elaborates on the different facets of meditation, explaining its potential to increase performance in various aspects of life, including work and athletics. He introduces listeners to the foundational "five regulations" of meditation practice: regulating the body, breath, mind, energy, and spirit. By adopting these principles into a daily routine, individuals can cultivate a holistic meditation practice that supports physical health, mental clarity, and emotional balance. Jeff also discusses the concept of "yielding," a strategic philosophy that can improve interpersonal relationships and negotiations.
Connect with Jeff:
https://www.theyieldingwarrior.com/
https://www.theyieldingwarrior.com/book
https://www.facebook.com/TaichiYielding
https://www.instagram.com/theyieldingwarrior/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCIzitJZ8CLWysspfvgtMZbw
https://www.tiktok.com/@theyieldingwarrior
Key takeaways:
Jeff Patterson shares his journey into meditation and martial arts, highlighting how meditation enhanced his boxing performance and personal life.
The five regulations of meditation—body, breath, mind, energy, and spirit—form the cornerstone of an effective meditative practice.
Yielding is a key concept in martial arts and meditation, focusing on using strategic finesse over brute force in both physical and emotional scenarios.
Meditation should become a consistent, integral part of daily life to derive maximum benefits, such as stress reduction and improved focus.
For beginners, finding a knowledgeable guide can significantly expedite progress and tailor practices to personal goals.


