A Satisfied Mind

Amber is the founder and facilitator of Alchemy Rites, the iSoma practitioner training course and host of Deep Currents podcast. In this episode she reflects on the origins of this deep and transformational work, its evolution and its future. We chat about the importance of rites of passage for personal growth and healing amidst modern relational challenges. Amber's work highlights the power of emotional healing through relationship, connection and community and the need for this in an increasingly fractured world. We explore the tension of being of service to something greater while navigating personal needs, how we might connect more deeply to self, nature and others in daily life and the importance of contact - referencing the work of Duey Freeman.  This was recorded and released at the end of the calendar year and at the end of the Alchemy Rites program and so the theme of endings and new beginnings runs throughout our conversation. Amber shares some devotional practices to support you through these changing times which I know will be really helpful. To connect with Amber you can find more info at www.amberhawken.com and sign up to her newsletter there. 

It's been a while, almost a year! Just wanted to check-in, say hi, and thank you. Thank you for listening. I've got a couple of updates to share in this episode but really I just wanted to dust off the cobwebs.I mentioned the rituals resource library I collated, you can access that here. I also asked for some feedback, if you've got a minute you can contact me via email at hello@mikeyellis.com or message me on Instagram @mikey.ellis

I've been following Shy's work for years now. I think the work he's doing to bring greater self awareness to teaching, learning and education is essential, it's so important. Shy has plenty of experience in the education sector having been a high school teacher of psychology, science and maths and is now a sought after education consultant and researcher working as an Assistant Professor of Learning Sciences (Design & Pedagogy) in the Faculty of Education, University of Canberra. He has two Bachelors degrees, two Masters degrees and a PhD so he knows a thing or two about learning. His PhD thesis was on, 'Sustainable school improvement: enhancing school middle leaders in epistemic cognition for teaching about self regulated learning'.As you'll notice from this conversation, not only is Shy's knowledge of how we learn extensive, but he has a unique ability to make complex topics as approachable and relatable as he is. In this conversation we discuss:What exactly is 'self regulated learning'?How might we cultivate this - both in school students and as adults?What are the strategies for developing greater self regulation?Why does this matter?What's the relationships between self regulation, self awareness, social and emotional awareness? What role can parents play in developing greater self regulated learners?How do we do this as adults?To learn more about Shy's work, visit his website here. Follow him on social media here on Instagram, here on Twitter.Watch his 2023 TED Talk, 'What we fail to learn in schools'. Listen to his podcast, 'Educate to Self-Regulate' here. 

In this episode I speak with Dr Arne Rubinstein - author of 'The Making of Men' and CEO of the Rites of Passage Institute. We begin with the current state of masculinity in Australia and Arne's honest and cautionary assessment of it.We discuss the desperate need for healthy masculinity and the role rites of passage experiences play in this. Arne has over 30 years of experience doing this work which is arguably more important and necessary now that it has ever been.Arne shares insights on what we can do to support boys and men in cultivating more healthy expressions of masculinity, the role of parents and schools and what we can do as as individuals to create a culture that supports young people in identifying their gifts and sharing them in service of the community.For more information on the Rites of Passage Institute - visit the website here.You'll find a number of courses and workshops including father and daughter camps, mother and son camps, a camp for all young warriors, rites of passage facilitator training, resources and training for schools and online courses.You can find Arne's book, 'The Making of Men' here.Follow on social media here:InstagramFacebookTikTok

When I met Tarang earlier this year and listened to him speak as a panellist at an event, I knew there was so much more I wanted to hear from him.  We got the chance to find some time amongst Tarang's busy schedule to chat and I'm glad we did. We discussed some difficult issues, important issues. Issues such as gender based family and domestic violence, mental health, masculinities and the desperate need for positive role models for boys and young men. Tarang's invitation for us all to be advocates for these issues is a compelling and inspiring call to action. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did.  You can find out more about Tarang and his work and how to contact him below. WebsiteTarang's InstagramNot One More Niki InstagramLinkedInEmail: tarang@tarangchawla.com

Hi,I need to have conversations like this, albeit with you via a podcast. It helps. I hope it helps you, too. I mentioned some quotes from John O'Donohue in this episode, you can listen to the full conversation here with Krista Tipppet, it's pure magic - The Inner Landscape of Beauty.  And you can find out more about Tara Brach and RAIN here. With love,Mikey

Hi,What a time hey. I don't know about you but I feel like it's time to do things differently, very differently. This next 'season' of A Satisfied Mind podcast will both exploring how we might do this and documenting my experience.In this episode I share an update and an invitation to join me. I also mention some words I wrote back in 2020 about going 'back to work'.And there's this interview with Daniel Schmachtenberger which will blow your mind in the realest way. Like, subscribe, do the things you do when you love a podcast. Much gratitude and love,MikeyAnd join us in the next Men's Circle if you read this and are not to late to register - we begin October 17th. 

Pete is an accomplished photographer who has travelled the world shooting and working with people like the Obamas and Simon Sinek. He's now travelling less, creating more and has gathered a thriving community of soulful entrepreneurs bringing authenticity to their art. Through his bespoke programs and intuitive gift for identifying and coaxing out the essence of people he works with, he's teaching others how to create content that matters and having a helluva lot of fun doing it. In this conversation we talk about this work and his creative process. We talk about magnets and mosquitos, creating before you consume and what authenticity actually means. This conversation is full of truth bombs, soulful insights and plenty of tools and tips to help you to make more meaningful content, no matter what context. For more information on all Pete's offerings check out his website here To join The Playground click hereThe Create Content That Matters program

Show notes seem a bit pointless after what might the the longest podcast title! Here's the downlow on this episode. I finished walking the Camino de Santiago and experienced the come down, the anticlimax was real. I then had a few friends reach out and the conversations that ensued were extremely impactful. I wrote an article about what happens after the hero's journey and was sitting here wondering how to tie it all together. This podcast is my attempt to do that, I hope it translates. I also share my intention to create a space for men to more of this – sharing in community.  Details are at the end of the episode and a link to register your interest is below.After the Hero's Journey Blog PostRegister for the May intake of Integrate - A Five Week Self-Leadership Course for Men. 

Today I walked up to the highest point on the Camino de Santiago. There's a cross there atop a mound of stones that pilgrims have left behind. These are both literal and figurative symbols of that which they've been carrying and no longer want to carry. On the other side of this peak I stepped off the trail and sat on some grass to record this episode in the sunshine whilst thinking about letting go and why it's so hard. I reference David Whyte's poem, Faces at Braga. You can read it here.

I met Polina as I wandered into the grounds of an Albergue one very cold morning  looking for a coffee whilst walking the Camino de Santiago. There was a sign they had put out on the Camino just the day before saying, 'warm up' with an arrow pointing away from the path. I followed it and found myself at Alberuge Amanecer.There I had a coffee and some fresh banana bread but it was the conversation with Polina that really moved me. Polina is 26 years of age and with her parents, recently fled their home in Mariupol, Ukraine.  They have come to Spain and the Camino seeking refuge and to work, to build a new home and establish a new community. I was deeply moved by talking with Polina and asked her if I could share her story. This conversation is some of it. Link to the Facebook group mentinoed - TBCAlberuge Amanecer is where Polina and her family work, please support them if you find yourself on the Camino. 

This was an impromptu episode. I was walking in between Hontillas de Camino and Castrojeriz on the Camino de Santiato and pulled over to share some thoughts. Perhaps it was the fact I had been walking all day with only my thoughts to keep me company that had me inspired to share, I was craving conversation! I hope, despite the wind and poor recording conditions, that you enjoy this episode. It's very low-fi but talking about some hi-fidelity feels. The podcast interview with Francis Weller I mentioned is hereAnd you can find more of Francis' work here

This conversation with Rainier Wylde is great example of why I created this podcast. To learn from people and their lived experience. To provide an opportunity for others to share their stories. To connect more deeply with people at a time when slow, intentional, consciously nurtured connections are replaced by desperate dopamine benders and superficial scrolling frenzies. To learn to listen better. To practice asking better questions. To share the wisdom and perspective of others who are generous enough to share their lives, their lessons and their own questions with me. Rainier has plenty to share and does so with a poetic meter informed by a life of well lived experiences. We dive straight into it as Rainier shares his experience of grieving the recent loss of his father. In his signature storytelling style, Rainier shares stories of key moments - both big and small, all profound, key moments that have changed his life and helped him connect to a greater sense of appreciation and awe for it all, especially the seemingly insignificant moments. Here's some of what we cover:Grief and why we find it so hard to deal with death and endings His upbringing with in an evangelical sect and core lessons learnedFalls from graceFacing his own shadow and history of infidelity, keeping agreements and redemptionHis creative process - paying attention to lifeWhy a Negroni is the perfect metaphor for lifeIt's an inspiring conversation - it's raw, honest and heartfelt. For more information on Rainier and how to access more of his work:Rainer Wylde on InstagramInto the Wylde on SubstackWork with Rainier Thanks for listening.Michael

You can feel the power of Mariam's presence through this conversation, and it's a beautiful thing. Mariam arrived in Melbourne from her Somali homeland as a refugee in 1998 with her husband, four children and a fifth on the way. Her story begins well before this however and we explore some pivotal stories, memories and lessons learned from this time. Having settled in Brighton, Melbourne, Mariam cofounded RAW-Resilient Aspiring Women in 2012, a not-for-profit organisation focused on building community and social spaces for women to connect in.She launched her autobiography, A Resilient Life, in 2012, and continued to share her experience and commitment to improving refugee's lives by sitting on the board of Asylum Seekers Resource Centre, serving as an ambassador for Refugee Council of Australia and a Director at Family Peace.Mariam continues to share her experience and commitment to improving refugee's lives by sitting on the board of Asylum Seekers Resource Centre, serving as an ambassador for Refugee Council of Australia and a Director at Family Peace. She is an International Women's Forum member and co-founder of Space2b, an art and design based social enterprise established to support asylum seekers, refugees and newly arrived migrants. She was recently awarded the Ambassador of Peace award from the Universal Peace Federation – in recognition of her on-going work promoting social cohesion amongst Melbourne's culturally diverse population. She is regularly invited to speak to different community groups and featured in national Australian TV, radio and press.We conver so much ground in this conversation and we go deep early. We discuss:Growth, transformation and evolution through challengeCatalysing grief into graceIntegrating stories and experience into wisdomElderhood and the desperate need for the wisdom of eldersA profound story her grandmother shared with Mariam, this metaphor was a highlight of the conversation for meI hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did, my heart was full and I hope you feel the warmth and presence this conversation generated. For more information and to follow Mariam's work:Website: www.mariamissa.com.au Instagram: @mariamissaofficialTo subscribe to A Satisfied Mind Journal and read previous entries, check it out here. Thanks for listening,Michael

I head Lael Stone speak recently at an event about a school she founded, Woodline Primary, which focusses on a holistic and heart-lead approach to education. This is just one of the many ways in which Lael is changing the way we give raise and educate children from pre-natal to adolescence. Leal created the ‘About Birth' program  after working with thousand of parents, children, families and identifying the need for a more connected and empathetic approach to assisting mothers and babies who had experienced trauma. About Birth has become Australia's leading online childbirth program.She's been a Calmbirth practitioner, postnatal trauma counsellor, and Aware Parenting instructor. As her own children grew up she developed a sex education curriculum for secondary schools and has delivered a Ted Talk on How to Raise Emotionally Intelligent Children'.She's a podcast host of the very popular and successful ‘The Aware Parenting' podcast with co host. Marion Rose and has just written a best selling book called ‘Raising Resilient and Compassionate Children'.Oh, and as previously mentioned she's founded a school - Woodline Primary that is revolutionising education by fostering connection and awareness through supporting and nurturing the whole child.In this episode we talk about all the above and focus on:Childhood trauma - what is it and how can we prevent it?What is 'aware parenting' and how can we do it?How to address childhood trauma as an adultHow to raise emotionally inteligent children as a parent and teacherTrauma and re-parenting ourselves as adultsLael Stone's WebsiteThe Aware Parenting podcast Raising Resilient and Compassionate Children bookWoodline Primary SchoolSubscribe to A Satisfied Mind newsletterThanks for listening,Michael

Shadow work. You may be familiar with it, you may have done some, perhaps you're well acquainted with your shadow. Maybe you have no idea what this all means but have heard people talking about it. It's work what has fascinated, compelled and challenged me for most of my life and specifically the past couple of years working with Kerrie. For context, her bio is a compelling introduction to this work and the topic of this conversation:"Kerrie works at the crossroads of vision, creativity and imagination as an author, tarot reader, shadow guide and practicing witch. Her first book Morsel was released in early 2022 after a decade of writing online. Making her home on the wild east coast of Australia Kerrie works worldwide online, guided by the moon and stars above and earth below, intentionally creating safe curated spaces for you to connect to your path and power, your soul self and your innate guidance.With a decades old background in natural and alternative therapies, plant and magical lore and a deep commitment to ongoing learning, Kerrie is passionate about reflecting your innate wisdom back to you in myriad forms."In this episode we discuss:What is our shadow, and does everyone have one?How might we come to understand and integrate our shadow?The role of trauma, shame and guilt in shadow workHow Kerrie came to be doing this kind of workThe cultural, environmental and familial contexts in which our shadow is both formed and projectedIt's a deep dive into places we tend to avoid, but are ultimately so liberating and rewarding. I hope you enjoy this conversation and if you'd prefer to watch, I've uploaded it onto YouTube here. For more information on Kerrie's work, check out her website.You can buy her book, Morsel, here. Follow her in Instagram here. Please like, share, rate and subscribe to this podcast and newsletter. Your support, comments and feedback are appreciated. Cheers,Michael

Since it was founded in 2008, the social enterprise Thankyou has raised over $17.5 million dollars for its impact partners on a mission to eradicate extreme poverty. Thankyou has always done things differently, taken risks and creatively disrupted systems that need to change and it's been quite the rollercoaster.From their original campaign to sell bottled water to  fund life-changing water projects in developing nations, to abandoning that campaign (you can read about why below), Thankyou has been quick to adapt and has never shied away from setting audacious goals.There was the cheeky marketing campaign that leveraged the support of customers and community to encourage Coles and Woolies to stock Thankyou (it worked), to the most recent campaign to leverage the reach and power of the biggest product companies in the world to partner with Thankyou and redistribute profits to impact partners (a work in progress - check out the 'no small plan' link below)Oh, and there was the best-selling, groundbreaking book 'Chapter One' that documents it all, albeit in a typically unconventional way. It's been a fascinating journey and I've always been fascinated by the people who make this kind of big, systemic change happen. In this case, its Daniel Flynn.In this episode we talk about the challenges of running a purpose driven social enterprise during a time of rampant capitalism, during a pandemic whilst up against the might and power and control of global multinationals.And, we talk about the personal challenges that Daniel experiences as he grows as a human, a husband, a father and a leader.I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did.MichaelThankyou website  The 7-Eleven campaignThe Coles & Woolworths campaign  Chapter One bookWhy Thankyou is no longer selling bottled waterNo Small Plan campaignTo subscribe to the Satisfied Mind newsletter - join us here.

Self awareness in leadership. It's a hot topic that deserves far more attention than it gets. There's plenty of books on both, but too few on how to combine and apply both in practice. Cassandra Goodman's new book, 'Being True - How to Be Yourself at Work' does just that, and it is brilliant. Not only does it provide a compelling call to action for why this work is essential now, it provides clear principles and practices to make this a very handy guide for transforming the way you lead and live your life. Cassie uses the IFS framework and applies it to leadership. It's a beautiful marriage and one that cuts through all the jargon and platitudes of leadership while providing a clear and concise guide for practice. I loved this book and was so excited to dig into it with Cassie in this conversation. I hope you enjoy this conversation as much as I did and I know you're going to learn plenty. For more information and links mentioned in this episode:The Centre for Self FidelityBuy the book here - Being TrueRichard Schwartz - 'Greater Than the Sum of Our Parts'

In this episode I talk with director, Genevieve Bailey about the power of storytelling. We talk specifically about the stories we tell about men, mental health, masculinity and diversity. This conversation was inspired by her film, Happy Sad Man.Happy Sad Man is a beautiful documentary and it's an important one. With deft sensitivity it features the stories of five men who each have various experiences of living with mental health challenges. I hope you enjoy this conversation and I hope it's a catalyst for more meaningful conversations for you and the people you love. If you'd like to join us for a special screening of Happy Sad Man in Melbourne on the 8th December, DM me directly on Instagram or  click here.For screenings around the country happening now, click here.For the Happy Sad Man trailer and website, click here. Thanks for listening,Michael

Hi,Just dipping my toes back in, I feel a bit nervous putting out a new episode after a break. This one is just shaking off the cobwebs.Links mentioned:Happy Sad Man FilmThe MancaveBen Bohmer set from a hot air balloon in CappadociaThanks for listening,Michael

Recently, I have posted a number of articles and podcasts that reference the work of others. In doing so, I have not appropriately acknowledged the source of the content nor the people who created the work I referenced. I have passed this work off as my own, when it is not. I have shared work, concepts, processes, ideas and intellectual property that are not mine to share. This is plagiarism and in breach of both copyright and explicit agreements made. My ignorance is no excuse, I commit to remedying this and ensuring that everything I share is done so with permission and appropriate referencing. To those whose work I have misappropriated and to everyone I have mislead, I am deeply sorry. I have been learning more about my role in perpetuating an individualistic, capitalist, patriarchal ideology and paradigm.I commit to learning more and doing better when it comes to understanding and dismantling this destructive system through what I write and share and through my work and actions in general. Thank you for listening,Michael

This conversation is a sensitive and vulnerable one. On the day I write this intro and publish this episode, my family gathers to remember the one year anniversary of my nephew David's passing. I've had a number of conversations with my sister Sharyn about his passing and her experience over the past 12 months. Each time I've been humbled and inspired by her strength and courage in the face of unimaginable grief. I asked if she would be willing to share some of her experience with me, with us, on this podcast as I think these difficult conversations are the most important. What you'll find here is an insight into her experience of loss and grief, of processing and meaning making, of celebrating life and honouring David's legacy. It's a really powerful conversation and I'm grateful to have been able to have it and share it with you here. If the content of this episode brings up issues for you and you need support or you know someone who does, please access help via the links below.  I hope that sharing this story will help us all learn to be more mindful of and present to the privilege of living a life, and to be able to have the difficult conversations about loss and grief when we need to. With love,MikeyLifeline - 13 11 14Beyond Blue - anxiety, depression and suicide preventionBlack Dog Institute - mental health support and suicide prevention

This where the magic happens, this is how self love happens – Self Leadership.For more on this and the IFS model, including guided meditations, check out these resources:No Bad Parts - Richard SchwartzGreater Than the Sum of Our Parts - Richard SchwartzWith love,Mikey

This episode is for anyone who feels like they're losing the plot, at war with themselves, fighting a raging inner critic or shame monster or your very own personal Voldemort.I believe the only way to love - to love yourself and others, truly, is to first reconcile the parts of you that are not aligned with love. If you have parts that feel like they're in conflict with each other or even with you, if you're doing a number on yourself, you're self destructive or self loathing, I got you.You're not broken.Coming home to cultivate a safe space within for alignment might feel like it's the hardest thing you'll ever do, but this compassion for self is the most important work we'll do.That is, if we are to love and be loved and to truly live a full-spectrum life. It's worth it. Fuck, what else are you going to do with this life and how's that working out for you?Here's to embracing it all. 

I had the privilege of attending a funeral recently. I consider it a privilege, for it was an opportunity to witness a most vulnerable and intimate and heartfelt sharing of love and the acknowledgment of legacy of a much loved man's life. Of course there's the grief of loss, but there is beauty in that too, there is beauty in the entire human experience and the expression of it. If nothing else, it was a reminder of just how true that Maya Angelou quote is, it's my favourite, "that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."May we continue to live lives worth telling great stories about – stories of love and generosity and adventure and meaningful contribution to something other than ourselves. 

If you've ever felt conflicted or torn between different parts of you that seem at odds with each other. If you've ever acted 'out of character' and were shocked by what came over you, wondering what happened. If you've ever acted irrationally in situations that didn't warrant it, or been triggered by otherwise innocuous circumstances or people. If you've ever felt like there's an angel on one should and a devil on the other, or wondered whether there is something wrong with you because you have what seems like multiple personalities all fighting for attention.You're not alone.  Welcome to being a human. And welcome to getting to know yourself, your whole self and all your parts. The good news is, there is nothing wrong with you. Internal Family Systems is a paradigm for understanding our mind, ourselves and why we do what we do. I've studied psychology, philosophy, therapy, theories of self, spirituality, humans and human behaviour for most of my life, searching for answers to why we do what we do. IFS is where the penny dropped and changed my life. In this episode I provide an introduction to the model and a summary of key understandings. I hope it's as helpful and liberating for you as it has been for me. For more info and resources:Richard Schwartz and the IFS Institute - with plenty of resources and coursesNo Bad Parts by Richard Schwartz - his latest bookGreater Than the Sum of Our Parts - audiobook with guided meditations if you want to experience the model more, this is brilliant

On a daily basis I witness people catching themselves feeling and trying desperately to control themselves.Most of my life I've wondered why it's so hard to feel and express emotions. I've wondered why we don't do it more, why it feels so terrifying, why so many avoid it especially around others, why it's not modelled for us, why we're not taught it at school, at work, everywhere. Such a fundamental human experience - to feel. And so many don't know how to. In this episode I look at why that might be the case, what it's costing us as individuals and as a society, and how we can address this. I reference Marc Brackett's wonderful book, 'Permission to Feel' and his RULER methodology. It's brilliant - check it out here. And if you want to improve your ability to recognise and label feelings, the mood meter app is a great resource. Here's to normalising feeling, and the healthy expression and regulation of our emotions. With Love,Michael

Hi,Welcome back. It's good to be back.February is the new New Year, January felt a bit like a false start. As much as we want to kick off the new calendar year all frothy and full of hope and goals and dreams, that wasn't how it was for me and many others. There was still some reckoning to be done. It was necessary, integration time is essential and too often overlooked in the pursuit of the next thing, avoiding what needs to be acknowledged.That's what this next seasons is about - acknowledging the stuff we tend to shy away from.We're going there. Join me. With love.Michael 

I started this podcast in March 2020 and have done 85 episodes since. It's been one helluva ride and in this episode I reflect on the conversations, the learning, the transformation that has been our shared experience. I wanted to keep it short but there was a lot to cover. It gets real. There is negroni so there are tears and so much appreciation, for it all. To listen to the wisdom of Francis Weller I suggest this conversation with Mark Groves.And for an introduction to the IFS (Internal Family Systems) therapy model, check out this conversation with founder of the model Richard Schwartz on the Sounds True podcast. Thank you for listening. With love,Michael

I first saw Ashanti and learned about the work he does in the documentary, 'The Mask You Live In'. It hit my deep, it moved me and it inspired me. More recently I participated in a workshop he facilitated titled, Taking Off The Mask.  So, what are these masks?In this episode we talk about what it means to take off the mask. We talk about what masks are – what's on the front of our mask and what's on the back of it. Ashanti shares a few examples of these too from people he's worked with, from teenagers through to adults in their fifties. What's hidden behind these masks are feelings we all share at some stage in our lives. One of the things I love about Ashanti is that he lives what he teaches, he walks the talk and goes first when it comes to being real, being vulnerable and in doing so he provides a safe place for others to be seen and heard. I think you'll feel that too when you listen to this conversation.Amongst other things we talk about:What are the masks we wearWhat is wrong with our education system and how we can address itWhat can parents do to support kids at school and during this time of incessant uncertainty, fear and homeschoolingThe power of truly seeing another and what it means to be seenHow we might address the crisis of masculinity that results in 90% of incarcerated people in the US being menWe merely scratch the surface of these and other important topics but I think you'll find this is an incredibly affirming conversation about how we can all connect more with the truth of who we truly are, so that we may connect more with each other. Links mentioned in this episode:Ever Forward Club WebsiteEver Forward on Instagram, Facebook, TwitterJoin the 100K Masks Challenge and draw yours here for freeAshanti Branch on Instagram

I've been excited to share this episode with you for some time. I met Tim when I first arrived in Nicaragua. I went out for a surf with only a few others in the water and there was Tim, having the time of his life, ripping into every wave, cheering on others, full of stoke. I didn't talk to him at that time however, it wasn't until a few days later that I actually met him.I had found a baby opossum in a bucket of water outside our home, it was drowning and barely clinging on to life. John, who manages Casa Horizon suggested we take it down to a local guy who cares for animals, Tim.Tim's home is a refuge for sick, injured, orphaned wildlife. It's a small part of the work he does but his dedication to all animals, his commitment and care for biodiversity is not just a philosophy, it's how he lives his life.I realised that this was not just the guy from the surf, but it was he who is responsible for the turtle egg hatchery on the beach.I knew we had to chat.In this episode, amongst other things, we talk about:His early days and influences, including Punk musicHow a wise quote from his dad changed his focus to actionHow Vital Actions came about and the work it does to save endangered sea turtlesHow Vital Actions is reforesting local land and bringing back wildlife in Southern NicaraguaHow the community is being supported and employed while saving turtles and reforestingHow Vital Actions has managed to slow the turtle egg poaching trade, save eggs and keep locals employedIt's an inspiring conversation and a wake up call for anyone who cares about animals, the environment or social justice.You can find out more about Vital Actions here, and become a patron. $10/month will keep this organisation afloat and saving turtles.Please rate and review this episode, and subscribe here.And if you enjoyed this episode, please share it - that would mean so much to me and the turtles.Mikey

John not only wrote the book – Tales of a Modern Nomad, he is the modern nomad. He's also a modern renaissance man – working to bring more play, more creativity, more magic, more conscious connection , awareness, love and laughter into our lives.I've been living next door to John for the past few weeks and he's full of surprises. He's a singer songwriter, a poet, a yoga and breathwork teacher and co-founder of Momentom Collective. He's spent the last 14 years travelling and sharing his experiences and lessons with others.In this episode we discussed what it's like to travel the world and facilitate transformational experiences for people in some of the worlds' most inspiring and beautiful locations. We discussed creativity, connection, community and control, and I learned about conscious clowning.Enjoy this episode, you'll be inspired to back your bags and cultivate some adventure of your own. Meanwhile, I'll be learning how to bring more sacred clowning into my life.You can find John on Instagram at @johntearlyJohn's website is www. johnearly.caTales of a Modern Nomad is hereLearn more about Momentom Collective here.

In this episode I share a couple of stories of how appreciation has changed my life. It's a powerful practice, one that is innate but one we may be out of practice in. I'll show you what appreciation is and how to cultivate more of it in your life. I shared a quote from John O'Donohue's interview with Krista Tippett on On Being, the link to that episode is here.The link to the Tim Ferris podcast featuring Greg McKeown I mentioned is here. You can follow me on Instagram here or contact me via email at hello@mikeyellis.com

Trigger Warning – this episode includes a conversation about sexual assault, trauma, PTSD and post traumatic growth. Eleanor contacted me a couple of months ago and said that there was something she'd like to share. I spoke with Eleanor on Episode 24 of this podcast where she shared some of her adventures.  I've always been fascinated by what drives people to do extraordinary things and Eleanor has done plenty of extraordinary things. She has rowed 62 days from California  to Hawaii‬, is the first Australian woman to row the Pacific, she's cycled solo across Europe and is a 2 x world record holder.I was curious to find out what it is she wanted to share. We didn't prep much for this conversation, I wanted it to be casual and on her terms. Eleanor opens up about her experience of trauma and how it affected her life in business, in adventures, personally and professionally. She talks about some of the processes and therapy that has helped and her post traumatic growth.This is a very real and vulnerable conversation. Eleanor talks about sexual assault and the impact it's had on her life then and now. It's an incredibly powerful conversation, one which I was both grateful and humbled to share with Eleanor. It's also an incredibly inspiring conversation and it's a pleasure to witness someone who has found meaning and purpose and is so passionate about helping others.  The list and marker areas of Post Traumatic Growth are:Appreciation of LifeRelationships with OthersNew Possibilities in LifeSpiritual ChangePersonal StrengthI hope you too find some strength, some comfort and some inspiration here.  Follow Eleanor on instagram here and you can contact her via her website here, including more information about her keynote, Post Traumatic Growth: Engineering Opportunity Through Adversity.Eleanor mentioned EMDR therapy, here is the online resource to help get connected to an EMDR practitioner (in Australia).

This is a fascinating question to ask yourself.  Take note of the subtle distinction however – I'm not talking about what others require of you, but what is required of you, by you. What do you need to be doing right now? What does your body require of you, what does your heart require of you? Do you need to stop, to start, to rest, to let go, to launch something, to create, to sleep? Do you need to step up and speak up? Do you need to step back and listen?This requires a couple of things. Firstly, an awareness of your current experience in the moment. Secondly, it requires some self awareness - how are you actually feeling and what do you need to do to honour these feelings and the process of experiencing them in a way that's best for you?I mentioned the poem 'Let's Dance' in this episode. You can find the words here and the podcast of me reciting it here. And if you haven't already, sign up to my newsletter – it will make your day.Cheers,Mikey

If you've ever wanted to write, create, make, do, build or launch something and have been too [insert fear here] to do it, you're going to love this book.The last book summary episode I did was the most popular of all the podcast episodes to date,  apparently the format is resonating. So here's another one! When Seth Godin writes, I read. He has a unique ability to make complex concepts concise and he understands and communicates contemporary culture and its challenges so well. His latest book, The Practice is brilliant - I dare you to read it and to not only be inspired to create something that matters, but to get started immediately. In this summary I share quotes and highlights from the book, including topics such as:Imposter SyndromePerfectionismFinding Purpose, Your Voice, Your PassionDoing Work that MattersMinimum Viable ImpactBeing an Agent for ChangeFinding Your AudienceAnd so, much, more. I recorded this 'in the wild' so audio quality is a little different to usual but I reckon you're going to love this one as much as I enjoyed creating it. Here's a link to Seth's blog and this book.Lotsa Love,Mikey

As far as email subject lines go, this one from Ester Perel grabbed my attention – 'Questions that meet people where they are now'.  I've learned so much from Ester regarding relationships (much of what I've learned is how much I have to learn, and unlearn) and so I read everything she shares. This email contained a list of questions to 'meet people where they are now' and there was one that stood out for me, which is the the question for this episode. This past 12 months has changed everything for everyone and so too has our definitions of success changed, or are least they're changing. Mine certainly has. How about you?For more on Ester Perel's work click here. Follow me on Clubhouse @mikeyellis for more thoughtful conversations. Please subscribe to this podcast, share it with friends, share the love. We need it. 

In this episode I try something different. It's not quite a book review, nor is it just a summary. I share plenty of quotes and passages from the book with the intention to provoke thought and stimulate discussion. This is one of the best books I've read on personal development, growth, emotional awareness and generally understanding yourself and how you relate. Reflecting on it while recording this podcast I was reminded just how important this education is right now. And how much this has positively impacted my life at a time when I really need the support and perspective such fundamental truths provide. I read at least a book a week on these topics and have done for 20 years, and if I was to recommend one book to read, it's this. I take notes in all books I read and for this one, every second line was highlighted, some were double underlined with brackets, an asterisk and dog eared pages.In this podcast I work though the five sections of the book and share the passages that resonated for me and I also share why they resonated, we get personal on this one. Below are the sections and times at which I discuss certain topics if you want to skip ahead – it's a long one but I reckon it's worth a couple of hours of your time. Here's a link to  Alain de Botton's website and a link to  The School of Life.The School of Life YouTube channel has plenty of short videos explaining many of these topics - it's brilliant, check it out. But beware, you'll easily lose a few hours in there! Chapter Markers0:02:00 – Intro to the book and author bio0:08:20 – How I came to this book (a little bit of personal context setting)0:13:30 – The introduction. Sane Insanity and In Praise of Melancholy 0:19:30 – The School of Life0:21:10 – Self0:29:30 – The Importance of a Breakdown0:38:00 – Others 0:55:20 – A Case for Pessimism (from a recovering naive romantic idealist)0:57:15 – Vulnerability0:58:30 – Building Connection (with a hug, a cry or glass of milk), and Listening1:01:30 – More on Pessimism and Disappointment as a Leisure Activity1:04:45 – Anxiety 1:09:40 – On the Need to be Alone and Nature as a Teacher1:14:20 – Relationships and the Failings of Romanticism1:18:25 – A Post-Romantic Approach to Relationships and Finding a Partner1:22:30 – How to Know You're Ready for a Relationship1:25:15 – Anxious and Avoidant Attachment Styles 1:33:00 – Conversation Starters to Build Connection in Relationships 1:33:45 – Why we Argue1:36:50 – Marriage1:40:10 – Work 1:43:00 – Culture1:44:40 – WisdomMichael Bungay-Stanier – 'The Coaching Habit' and 'The Advice Trap'Esther Perel – 'The State of Affairs'To subscribe to this podcast or leave a review, please do so here. 

One of the all time great questions this one. In fact it's more of a statement starter than a question.What if...?It's what comes after this is where the gold is. It challenges our beliefs or presumptions, it opens up possibility.  Enjoy indulging in imagination, in potential, in possibilities...I mentioned a Seth Godin blog post in this episode - here it is.To subscribe to podcast episodes and blog posts, simply click here. To leave a review, please do so here. Cheers,Michael 

It's a couple of weeks into the new year. Do you have big goals, visions and dreams for how you might start? New year, same you? Yep, me too. If you're feeling a bit disillusioned already, this episode might help. We talk about the current reality v expectation contrast and how that's messing with your flow. I share a few resources with links below to approaches that might help with Goal setting (that works)Finding your word for the year (that's sustainable)Connecting with others who are sharing a similar experience (that's challenging)I hope this helps by providing some perspective for you. Lots of love,MikeyMark Manson's - The surprising science of goal setting and why you're probably doing it wrong. Dr Jason Fox's - 'Choose One Word', ritual for becoming.James Clear's - Atomic Habits (great resource for behaviour change and habit building).

Happy New Year. There's no question to answer no lessons to learn, no year to reflect upon. I know you're all doing that already in your own way. And there's no resolutions to make, no goals to set, no declarations of massive change to make. Instead, just a pause, to acknowledge this present moment. For who you are right now, in this present moment, for all that you've become and are, now, for all that you are already, for all you are to be. What I want to say here now, is that if you are listening to this, thank you. Thank you for sharing the most precious of commodities, your time and attention with me and this community that is fast growing, a conscious community of others just like you and me committed to being better, to doing better, to fearing less and loving more through cultivating self awareness and perhaps even a more satisfied mind. For now, as one year ends and a new one begins, if possible set aside the weight of expectations, set aside the innate desire to do better next year, let go of that which you regret or wished you had've done differently last year. For all  that you've lost, for that which you're grieving, for that which you're celebrating, the best way to acknowledge it all is to simply be with it all in this present moment, to inhale, to pause, to exhale and to pause. To bear witness to the truth and the beauty inherent in this moment, in you, to wonder at the perfection of it all, including the uncertainty, the tragedy, the triumphs, the loss and the lessons. To wonder at it all. To inhale, pause, exhale, pause. And repeat.And continue. You're doing a great job. You're here, you made it. You won. And on it goes. 

So, Christmas. What at time - It's certainly a new experience for me, it's winter in lockdown in a small apartment on the other side of the world with my partner who I met online 8 months ago and only met for the first time in person two weeks ago. Love in lockdown, it's been quite the adventure. How about you?  What are you doing, how is your experience? And what are you grateful for? But more specifically, WHO are you grateful for? Who has influenced you, supported you, inspired you, loved you, backed you, helped you...?Tell them. And don't hold back, be generous with your appreciation and share it with as many people as you can.This is the currency we need to be spending right now - the currency of kindness and appreciation. Give what you need. Wherever you are, whatever your circumstances right now, know that you are loved and appreciated. Merry Christmas.

What is something you accomplished this year – big or small – that you're proud you did?Let's talk more about that. Let's acknowledge and celebrate these things, the things YOU did despite the clusterfuckery of the circumstances you did it in and the challenges you had to overcome to pull it off. That needs to be celebrated.  Write it down, and when you get on a roll, keep going...And share it. Share it out loud with someone whose counsel you respect. Share it out loud to yourself - read it back. Stick it on the fridge, frame it, hang it from the Christmas tree, post it on the internet... just make sure you call it out and celebrate it.You deserve it. 

This episode is released on a significant day. It's the 21st of December (and they're ringing the last bells, for the Paul Kelly fans), it's the holiday season, covid is fucking things up, restrictions are imposed, plans are thwarted, we're forced to reflect, it's the great conjunction, the planets are aligning to shake it up even more... it's all happening. It's a few days before Christmas, most of us are winding down work, planning a break, looking forward to some time with family and friends... and perhaps all of these plans and expectations are thrown into chaos by circumstances out of your control.What a time. It might be too soon, but I've been reflecting on what's happened over the past year and the opportunities this has presented to learn, to grow. It's hard, growing is hard. It's painful, it's uncomfortable, it's unfamiliar, it's scary - fucking terrifying at times. But there are lessons to be learned. What have you learned, so far?

It's that time of year when we typically reflect on the year that was. And what a year it was. Holy shit. There's just so much that has happened, challenged and changed us. So much.What of it do you want to leave in 2020 and not carry into 2021? Now is a good time to acknowledge how you've changed, how you've grown, how much you've evolved. With that growth there's some stuff that needs to be left behind. It could be a belief, a story you have on loop, a habit, a friendship or relationship... Visualise it, verbalise it, make it tangible. Honour it for the lessons it taught, call it out then burn it. Bury it. Set it free, set yourself free. Let it go as you make space for what you do want. 

Whether it be today, this year, a conversation you're having, the relationship you're in, your life – how do you want it to end?If you have an intention for how you want things to end... the real question is whether what you're doing now is aligned to that outcome?

There's probably something on your heart that you feel strongly about, we'd love to hear it. I'd say that if it's important to you that we need to hear it. Perhaps your uncomfortable sharing it, it's vulnerable sharing what's on your heart. But it's there for a reason - whatever it is that matters to you is important simply because it matters to you. And chances are it matters to others too and they are waiting, wanting for someone to speak up, start a conversation, share what needs to be said.This question was inspired by a conversation I had with Dan Price, Founder and CEO of Gravity payments, who in 2015 set a minimum wage for all employees at his company of $70,000. The impact this has had on lives is massive. Dan continues to challenge the capitalist system that drives an even greater wedge between the ridiculously wealthy and the increasingly marginalised lower income earners. For more information on Dan and his work, check out the website here. Follow him on Twitter here, on Instagram here and find his book here. 

You might need a coffee, or a stiff drink for this one.  Maybe come chamomile tea, or some mushrooms? We dip our toes into the deep end of awareness, consciousness and what we're making it all mean. This is not about prescribing a practice, it's not about telling you how you should think nor what you should be thinking. Instead, it's an invitation for you to simply observe what's going on around you and then acknowledge the meaning you're making. And what stories are you telling as a result – what's the narrative you're creating?To dive deeper into this I mentioned a couple of books, here's the links:The Power of Now - Ekhart TolleThe Untethered Soul - Michael Singer

This question came about via a message from a mate. He was referring to a series of sunrise pics I was sharing a little while back, suggesting I share more, as the people need a reason to rise. That turn of phrase really stuck with me – 'a reason to rise'.Got me thinking, what's my reason to rise? What's my reason to get out of bed in the morning? What's my reason to stick with the hard things, to lean into fear and frustration, to persevere, to be patient, to do what it takes?  What's my reason to rise?How about you, what's your reason to rise?

It's the choices we make that define our lives. I don't know of a single context or circumstance where this isn't the case. All day every day we're making choices with what options are available to us as to what we'll do, what we wont' do, how we'll respond, what we choose to believe. It's both liberating and empowering as much as it is perhaps a burden of responsibility. Depends on what choices you're making and whether they're aligned with what you value.For more information on Peak Persona and the Next Level program click here. 

This question is inspired by a series of talks presented by David Whyte. It's a beautiful question. I speak more about the context of this question and the nature of invitations in this episode. It's a perfect morning question - listen to this before you get out of bed. Or late at night with a glass of wine.Either way, enjoy exploring the invitation that is being made to you now. For more information and links to David Whyte's November series I mentioned throughout this episode, click here.