Ex-Dutch special forces operator turned breathwork coach Wouter Huizer joins me to discuss masculinity, elite performance, and mastering the nervous system. We get into counter-terrorism, ethics, high-performing teams, anger, discipline, military identity, the “off switch,” up-regulation, insecurity, and refusing the shot. A punchy, masculine, and insightful chat with plenty of laughs and hard-won wisdom. Read more from Wouter here: www.Magniful.nl www.swartgym.nl www.BaseQamp.com ------------------------------------------------------ Wouter Huizer has had a distinguished career in elite military units, including the Marine Corps and the Royal Marechaussee, spanning 24 years. He served as a Special Forces Medic, specialized in urban climbing, and led operational teams through four deployments. Over time, the intense demands of service took a toll on his physical and emotional well-being. Seeking healing, Wouter turned to breathwork and cold exposure, which alleviated his pain and restored his emotional awareness. This transformation led him to study embodiment practices, blending science, ancient traditions, and modern techniques. Now, as a stress regulation specialist at SwartGym, Wouter helps individuals—from elite operators to civilians—enhance resilience, self-awareness, and well-being. He also works with defense units, teaching stress management to optimize physical and mental performance. Wouter’s mission is to guide others toward balance, connection, and inner strength through conscious movement, breathwork, and self-regulation. ---------------------------------------------------------- Check out our YouTube channel for more coaching tips and our Podcast channel for full episode videos Uplevel your coaching with a free copy of Mark's latest eBook, The Top 12 Embodiment Coaching Techniques  Join Mark for those juicy in-person workshops and events Fancy some free coaching demo sessions with Mark?  Connect with Mark Walsh on Instagram 

Zen teacher and mindfulness pioneer Fleet Maull joins me for a deep dive into neurosomatic mindfulness, bearing witness, and the science of awakening. We discuss plunge practices, time in prison, the nuances of running summits, and the shift from the 60s to the 90s in spiritual culture. Fleet shares insights on trauma, self-regulation, the five neural networks of enlightenment, and “practice stacking.” We also explore the balance between conceptual and embodied mindfulness, the pitfalls of spiritual materialism, and what neuroscience reveals about awakening. A thoughtful, full-spectrum conversation for meditators and seekers alike. Read more about Fleet's work here: heartmind.co & fleetmaull.com ------------------------------------------------------ Author, meditation teacher, and social entrepreneur Fleet Maull, PhD, developed Neuro-Somatic Mindfulness (NSM), a deeply embodied, neuroscience and trauma-informed approach to meditation offering an accelerated path to healing & awakening. He is both a Zen roshi and a senior teacher in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. He founded Heart Mind Institute, #578 on the 2024 Inc. 5000 list, a transformational education platform for self-actualization and life mastery training courses and summits.  He also founded Prison Mindfulness Institute and National Prison Hospice Association, catalyzing two national movements, while serving a 14-year sentence, 1985 to 1999.  Dr. Maull is the author of Radical Responsibility: How to Move Beyond Blame, Fearlessly Live Your Highest Purpose and Become an Unstoppable Force for Good. ------------------------------------------------------ Check out our YouTube channel for more coaching tips and our Podcast channel for full episode videos Uplevel your coaching with a free copy of Mark's latest eBook, The Top 12 Embodiment Coaching Techniques  Join Mark for those juicy in-person workshops and events Fancy some free coaching demo sessions with Mark?  Connect with Mark Walsh on Instagram 

Patrick Saltykov, a Marine veteran and author known as 'The Warrior Philosopher,' explores the interplay between masculinity and modern existential challenges. He discusses how historical ideals of virtue and strength contrast with contemporary comforts, urging a cultural renaissance for young men. The conversation delves into the significance of aesthetics, emotional expression, and personal growth, as well as the evolution of aristocracy and the pursuit of perfection. Saltykov also shares insights from his dystopian novel, highlighting themes of alienation in today's hypermodern world.

In this insightful discussion, James Rafael, a yoga and movement teacher dedicated to inclusivity and freedom, shares his journey from addiction to recovery through the transformative power of yoga. He challenges the superficiality in modern wellness culture, addressing the tension between authenticity and societal pressures. The dialogue delves into body image, queer identity, and the role of community in healing, inviting listeners to rethink their assumptions about personal growth and the deeper connections between movement and identity.

Mikaal Bates, a professional coach and psychedelic integration guide, dives into the intriguing shift from modern ideologies to traditional values. He discusses the growing concerns about gender dynamics and the impact of toxic masculinity. The conversation covers the rise of the 'trad wife' movement and explores how cultural trends influence masculinity and femininity. Mikaal emphasizes the importance of community and personal responsibility while navigating the divide in contemporary society, raising compelling questions about human connection and fulfillment.

Can compassion actually make you more successful? According to Dr. Nilesh Satguru, the answer is a resounding yes - if you know how to use it. In this insightful and practical conversation, Nilesh breaks down the neuroscience behind compassion, why it’s not the same as empathy, and how it influences everything from leadership to personal growth. He shares the "Three A’s of Self-Compassion," unpacks the cultural myths that hold us back, and reveals a practical recipe for integrating compassion into daily life. We also touch on shame, belief systems, perennial philosophy, and the surprising ways compassion can drive achievement. A thought-provoking and actionable episode for anyone looking to live with more intention, resilience, and, of course, compassion. Read more about Nilesh here: drsatguru.com ------------------------------------------------------ Dr Nilesh Satguru is a self-mastery coach and compassion trainer. After over a decade of practising medicine, Nilesh now helps entrepreneurs awaken true success with compassion. His work spans 5 continents and his client list includes 7-figure serial entrepreneurs, ex-athletes, authors, executive coaches and award-winning charity founders. Although they are from diverse backgrounds, they all share a desire to “go inwards to give outwards”. Nilesh is the founder of a community called ‘Compassion Mastery’, whose purpose is to create and elevate compassionate entrepreneurs. ------------------------------------------------------ Check out our YouTube channel for more coaching tips and our Podcast channel for full episode videos Uplevel your coaching with a free copy of Mark's latest eBook, The Top 12 Embodiment Coaching Techniques  Join Mark for those juicy in-person workshops and events Fancy some free coaching demo sessions with Mark?  Connect with Mark Walsh on Instagram 

Host of The Emerald and animism teacher Josh Schrei joins me to explore topics that span existential questions to practical rituals. We look at what it means to be alive in a world teeming with distractions, the role of myth in modern life, and the tension between liberalism and animism. Josh shares his take on mental health, the importance of authentic connection, and why mindfulness and yoga sometimes fall short. From the Goddess to eco-terrorism, AI to stages of consciousness, we touch on what it means to live fully in a world of ever-increasing complexity. Plus, Josh shares his thoughts on the best myths to pass down to future generations - because we all need a good story to tell. Read more about Josh's work here: themythicbody.com ------------------------------------------------------ Josh Schrei is a podcaster, mythteller, teacher, and a lifelong student of the cosmologies and mythologies of the world - in particular the Indian subcontinent.  Throughout a lifetime of teaching, study, meditation and yogic practice, wilderness immersion, art, music, and public speaking, Josh has sought to navigate the living, animate space of the imagination and advocate for a world that prioritizes imaginative vision. Josh has taught intensive courses in mythology and somatic disciplines for over 20 years. ------------------------------------------------------ See the Feral Philosophy YouTube channel HERE  Support the Feral Philosophy mission by donating through Crowdfunder  Want to become a certified embodiment coach? More details about CEC Join Mark for in-person workshops Join free coaching demo sessions with Mark  Find Mark Walsh on Instagram

Pierre Goirand joins me to explore the art of embodied leadership, group dynamics, and transformational presence. We chat about his years of experience training in Wendy Palmer’s system, the power of chanting, and why embodiment is the missing piece in modern leadership. Expect insights on how to stay present under pressure, the role of nervous system awareness in leadership, and practical tools for bringing more embodiment into your work and life. We also explore re-programming, tips for corporate work, burnout, breaking points, and when mindfulness becomes enabling. Pierre’s got a wealth of experience, a relaxed style, and some properly useful perspectives for anyone looking to lead with more authenticity and connection. A lovely practical but lyrical episode, especially useful if you want to work in the business world. Read more about Pierre here: pierregoirand.com ------------------------------------------------------ Pierre Goirand is a leading voice in embodied leadership, collective intelligence, and transformational learning. With a background in business consulting and leadership development, Pierre has spent decades exploring how presence, somatic awareness, and deep listening can create more effective and conscious leaders. As the founder of Generative Empowerment Institute, Pierre has worked with global organizations, guiding individuals and teams toward a more human-centered, embodied approach to leadership. His work integrates mindfulness, somatic practices, and relational intelligence to help leaders navigate complexity with clarity and resilience. ------------------------------------------------------ Check out our YouTube channel for more coaching tips and our Podcast channel for full episode videos Uplevel your coaching with a free copy of Mark's latest eBook, The Top 12 Embodiment Coaching Techniques  Join Mark for those juicy in-person workshops and events Fancy some free coaching demo sessions with Mark?  Connect with Mark Walsh on Instagram 

Spoken word artist and coach Adam Roa joins me for a wide-ranging chat about life, love, and the messiness of it all. We get into the highs and lows of going viral, why self-love can sometimes look a lot like narcissism, and what’s total BS in the personal growth world. Adam shares war stories from the world of artistic entrepreneurship - think big money, big egos, and the discipline it actually takes to make it work. We also talk new age communities (the good, the bad, and the seriously weird), being a digital nomad, breaking up like a pro, and why relationships are the ultimate dojo for self-discovery. Plus, a peek into his new book and what he’s learned from coaching clients with million-dollar budgets. Expect insight, irreverence, and a few truth bombs along the way. Read more about Adam here: adamroa.com ------------------------------------------------------ Adam Roa is an internationally touring poet, coach and speaker who helps people build a fulfilling life through embracing their inner artist and inner entrepreneur.  His “Creative Path Podcast” breaks down the creative process of some of the world's most influential people and his viral poem, “You Are Who You’ve Been Looking For" is the most viewed poetry performance in history, seen more than 250 million times. ------------------------------------------------------ Check out our YouTube channel for more coaching tips and our Podcast channel for full episode videos Uplevel your coaching with a free copy of Mark's latest eBook, The Top 12 Embodiment Coaching Techniques  Join Mark for those juicy in-person workshops and events Fancy some free coaching demo sessions with Mark?  Connect with Mark Walsh on Instagram 

Yoga rogue and nervous system educator Helen joins me for a deep dive into chronic fatigue, burnout, yoga, and the nervous system. We chat about her journey from psychiatry to yoga, polyvagal theory, brain fog (or should I say, "brain frogs"), and why so many big-name nervous system educators miss the mark. Helen shares practical insights on "safety," ventral brakes, gender-based differences, and the medical model vs. spiritual regulation. This one’s relaxed, insightful, and packed with real-world applications for anyone navigating stress, health, or just trying to feel more human. Find out more about Helen's incredible work and free resources here: About YogaRogueUK Check out her fantastic library on Poly Vagal Theory on YouTube ------------------------------------------------------ Helen Machen-Pearce is a nervous system educator, yoga and embodiment teacher, and retired consultant psychiatrist with 25 years of experience as an NHS doctor. She specialises in nervous system regulation, resilience, and holistic wellness, supporting those with persistent health challenges, chronic fatigue, persistent pain, stress, and burnout. Through education, embodiment practices, slow, mindful yoga, and meditation, she helps people cultivate awareness, nervous system resilience, deep self-connection, and sustainable well-being. ---------------------------------------------------------- Check out our YouTube channel for more coaching tips and our Podcast channel for full episode videos Uplevel your coaching with a free copy of Mark's latest eBook, The Top 12 Embodiment Coaching Techniques  Join Mark for those juicy in,person workshops and events Fancy some free coaching demo sessions with Mark?  Connect with Mark Walsh on Instagram