Bountifull Podcast

“There isn't one rote path that you have to take to reach a goal... it's okay to meander a little bit and live life and kind of explore.”For Agnar Hall, the journey to NASA wasn't linear—it was layered. In this episode, he opens up about stepping away from a PhD, working at Starbucks while healing from fibromyalgia, and embracing his identity as a transgender man. With gentle candour and sharp insight, Agnar talks about what it's like to rewire your definition of success while still holding onto your dreams. We touch on space science, social dynamics, and the subtle bravery of taking the long way home.There's something deeply relieving about Agnar's outlook. He offers a map that doesn't require urgency or perfection, only honesty and small acts of momentum. His story reminds us that meaning doesn't arrive fully formed—it's built through slow pivots, quiet reckonings, and friendships that feel like gravity. If you've ever questioned the plan you were handed or felt behind in your own timeline, this conversation is a balm.

“A bountiful life is driven by action, not by money.” — Pascal WagnerWhat does it really mean to be financially free—and how do you know when you have enough? In this powerful conversation, Pascal Wagner shares his journey from startup founder to investor, unpacking the mindset, strategies, and personal challenges that shaped his relationship with money. From accumulating and managing $8.5 million in assets to caring for his mother after his father's death, Pascal offers a grounded, honest look at wealth, responsibility, and growth.His worldview is clear and unapologetic: clarity compounds. He doesn't sugar-coat the emotional labour of responsibility or the discipline required to build something sustainable. What he offers is a model of financial literacy rooted in values, resilience, and focus. Not chasing the next big thing—but doing the small things right, over and over. Instead of glorifying outcomes, Pascal brings it back to process. He's not selling a dream—he's offering a strategy. His story challenges us to ask: how do I want to live? And what kind of thinker do I need to become to get there?

What do you build when the world around you wasn't designed with you in mind? For Emma Bates, the answer was Diem - a social search engine and online community where women's lived experiences are turned into collective knowledge and wisdom. In this week's episode of the Bountifull Podcast, we sit down with Emma to talk about entrepreneurship, building what you wish existed, the value of asking better questions, and why access to the right information - information that reflects who you are and what you need - can be life-changing.We explore the power of community, information, and lived experience; how to thrive in a world that often isn't designed for you; and how to build a business and a life on your own terms. For Emma, that's meant dedicating her work to closing the gender information gap and making the internet a less lonely place for women and marginalised groups.We also talk about what living a bountiful life means to Emma, why she avoids working weekends even while running a high-growth, funded startup, how she thinks about prioritisation, and how she's working on healthier rhythms. Episode Highlights

"Food is a bridge. It's one of the few places where people let their guard down and are open to learning something new." — Adrian MillerThis week on the Bountifull Podcast, we sit down with Adrian Miller—lawyer, author, former White House advisor, and James Beard Award-winning soul food historian—for a rich conversation about how culture, history, and food shape our identity. From growing up in a religious Black household in Denver to carving out a path as a culinary historian, Adrian brings wisdom, wit, and warmth to a conversation that wrestles with hard truths and still finds joy.We talk about safe spaces, historical erasure, and what it means to hold complexity without giving up on hope. Adrian shares how food can be a site of memory, resistance, celebration, and connection. If you've ever wondered how to honour culture without appropriating it, or how to talk about hard history with humility, this episode is full of insight—and soul.In This Episode, You'll Discover:

This week on the Bountifull Podcast, we're joined by Dr. Julianne Holt-Lunstad, professor of psychology and neuroscience, and one of the world's leading researchers on social connection. Julianne's work has shaped global public health policy and sparked a deeper understanding of why our relationships matter—not just emotionally, but physically, cognitively, and even biologically.Together, we explore the science behind connection—why it matters, what it's made of, and how loneliness, isolation, and friendship shape our lives in ways we often overlook. We talk about the health risks of loneliness (yes, they're real), why it's hard to make friends as an adult, and how to assess and strengthen your own relationships using her concentric circles activity. This episode is both thoughtful and practical—a reminder that social connection isn't a luxury, it's a cornerstone of a full, rich, bountiful life.In This Episode, You'll Discover:

This week on the Bountifull Podcast, we're joined by Dr. Kristin Francis, psychiatrist, educator, and passionate advocate for brain health. In this honest and practical conversation, we explore the spectrum of mental health—from depression and anxiety to resilience and wellness—and how we can begin to understand our brains with more clarity, compassion, and curiosity.Kristin offers a powerful reframe: our brains are organs, just like our hearts or livers. And yet we treat them with shame instead of support. Together we talk about what depression actually is, how to recognise when we or someone we love might be struggling, and why healing is possible—with the right help, evidence-based treatments, and a little bit of hope.From the science of gratitude to the simple power of going outside, this episode is a reminder that small actions can make a big difference—and that no one needs to walk through it alone.In This Episode, You'll Discover:

Hey friends, Welcome to Season Three of the Bountifull Podcast. This season, we've got eleven incredible episodes that help us explore what it means to live a bountiful life—through themes like contribution, depression, gratitude, culture and identity, entrepreneurship, passive income, social connection, exercise, and even capitalism.My goal, as always, is to bring you conversations with extraordinary people from all walks of life, who share real stories and practical wisdom. And honestly, I think you're going to love these guests as much as I did recording with them.Over the last few seasons, a few core themes have started to emerge: contribution beyond ourselves leads to greater fulfillment and happiness, joy is a choice, and we need to learn how to thrive within the systems we're in—even when they challenge our values. That last one is exactly what we're exploring in today's episode.We're kicking off with a conversation on how to live a bountiful life in a capitalist world. Because like it or not, this is the system we're in—and understanding how to navigate it is key to building a more joyful and sustainable life.Thanks for being part of the Bountifull community. I'm so excited to dive into this new season with you.#Podcast #PersonalGrowth #podcastlife #joyfulliving #spotify #gratitudeattitude #inspiration 

This week on the Bountifull Podcast, we're joined by Dirk Philipsen, Duke professor, economic historian, and one of the world's leading thinkers on capitalism and well-being. In a world where burnout, inequality, and the pressure to grow at all costs feel ever-present, this conversation gives voice to so many of the questions we quietly carry—but don't always have the words for.Together, we explore what capitalism really is—beyond just markets and money—and how it subtly shapes our relationships, our work, our sense of self, and our definition of success. Dirk offers a thoughtful, grounded lens on how we got here, why the system demands constant growth, and how we can begin to imagine and live into something more bountiful.If you've ever felt worn down by the grind or wondered whether there's another way to measure meaning, this episode offers radical hope, practical insight, and a reminder that a better future is possible—even within the system we live in now.In This Episode, You'll Discover:

"You don't have to believe in energy for it to affect you. You've walked into a room and felt tension. You've met people who drain you, and others who light you up. We are all picking up on energy, whether we realize it or not."This week on the Bountifull Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Rick Leskowitz, a Harvard-affiliated psychiatrist, researcher, and expert in pain management, energy healing, and consciousness. With over 25 years of experience at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Rick has spent his career exploring the connection between mind, body, and energy—long before mainstream medicine began catching up.In this episode, we dive into the #science of energy and its impact on our health, relationships, and collective well-being. Rick shares his research on phantom limb pain, group energy fields, and how our focus and intention influence both physical and emotional healing. We also explore why Western medicine has overlooked energy as a key part of #healing, and what happens when we begin to see ourselves as more than just physical bodies.If you've ever wondered why some places "feel different," why some people leave you feeling drained while others lift you up, or how energy plays a role in our everyday lives, this episode offers a fascinating and practical perspective.Episode Highlights:

"Doing everything will burn you out. Focus on a few things and do them well—that's how you build something that lasts." This week on the Bountifull Podcast, we head to the Shenandoah Valley in rural Virginia (USA) to explore what it means to live with purpose and focus with Ty Walker, a trout farmer and steward of a historic 1930s hatchery. Ty shares his remarkable journey of leaving the noise and distractions of urban life to revive Smoke in Chimneys—a trout farm he resurrected with a century-old manual and a lot of grit. In a world obsessed with doing more, Ty teaches us the power of doing less, staying grounded in our work, and finding fulfillment in simplicity. From sustainable farming and family to the unexpected lessons hidden in patience, Ty's wisdom is an antidote to burnout and a reminder that bountiful living comes when we invest deeply in what matters most. What can you learn about life, business and family from a Trout farmer? As it turns out, quite a bit. Episode Highlights:

People of all ages seek to live a bountiful life irrespective of their generation, yet the journey is not always easy—and it is always deeply personal. It was a privilege to sit down with playwright, actress, and journalist Connor Amor-Bendall to understand how she overcame adversity, navigated loss, and the impact that had on her life. We discussed how she chooses to live by love and kindness and how she found solace in her creativity, the arts, and getting back to nature. In This Episode, You'll Discover: Navigating Loss and Grief: Connor Amor-Bendall shares her deeply personal journey of overcoming adversity and navigating the profound loss of her father, offering insights into the emotional and mental challenges she faced. Creative Healing: Learn how Connor found solace and healing through her creative pursuits in playwriting, acting, and journalism, and how these outlets helped her process and express her grief. Living by Love and Kindness: Discover Connor's philosophy of living by love and kindness, and how these values guided her through her toughest times, providing her with strength and resilience. Supporting Loved Ones: Explore Connor's experience in supporting her father through his terminal illness, the impact it had on her life, and the importance of spending time with loved ones. Finding Solace in Nature: Understand how reconnecting with nature became a crucial part of Connor's healing journey, offering her peace and a sense of grounding during tumultuous times. Personal Growth and Resilience: Hear about Connor's reflections on personal growth, resilience, and the life lessons she gained from her experiences, emphasizing the importance of being kind to oneself and persevering through difficult times. Creative Processes and Projects: Delve into Connor's creative process, her latest projects, and how she uses her art to explore and communicate complex and gritty themes with authenticity and vulnerability. Detailed Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Connor Amor-Bendall, her background, and the scope of today's discussion. 03:30 - Connor's journey in overcoming adversity and navigating loss. 10:15 - Discussing the impact of her father's terminal illness and the profound challenges faced. 18:00 - Finding solace in creativity: Connor's experiences in playwriting, acting, and journalism. 25:45 - Living by love and kindness: How these values guided Connor through tough times. 33:30 - The importance of nature in the healing process. 40:15 - Supporting loved ones: Connor's role in caring for her father and her advice for others. 48:00 - Personal growth and resilience: Life lessons and reflections from Connor's journey. 55:00 - Listener Q&A with Connor on creative processes, personal growth, and maintaining resilience. Guest Bio: Connor Amor-Bendall is an accomplished writer, playwright, and actor. She graduated from The Actors Program in 2021 and has since brought her talent to screen roles in Shortland Street, Netflix's Sweet Tooth, Power Rangers, and Warner Bros' Testify. She is currently pursuing a Master's in Creative Writing at Auckland University and holds a Master's in Journalism as well as an undergraduate degree in Political Science and International Relations. Her debut play, The Clitoris Conundrum, premiered to a sold-out season at Basement Theatre for Pride 2024. Connor is also a member of Indian Ink Theatre Company's Next Generation cohort. When she isn't working on her creative pursuits, Connor enjoys connecting with friends and loved ones, getting back to nature, surfing, her dog, and nurturing her tomatoes. You can connect with Connor here: https://www.instagram.com/conconcan_/ If you found this episode insightful, please rate and leave a review on Youtube, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Follow Bountifull on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bountifullworld/ Subscribe to our Newsletter: ⁠https://www.bountifullworld.com/subscribe/

Join us on the Bountifull Podcast as we explore the world of art and creativity with Wellington-based artist Lynne Sandri. With a career spanning over 25 years, Lynne delves into the beauty of nature, the cycles of life, and the evolving concept of home. we will explore the wonders of art, its potential to transform our perspective on the world, and its role in creating a bountiful life. In This Episode, You'll Discover: The Art of Time and Generational Differences: Lynne shares how her work reflects the changing landscapes of life, the significance of home, and the cultural myths surrounding the 'Quarter-Acre Dream.' Creative Processes and Experimentation: Learn about Lynne's use of various mediums like impasto oil paints, acrylics, and light-boxes. She discusses her artistic journey, the importance of pushing boundaries, and her unique approach to creating textured, touchable art. Finding Joy and Connection in Art: Discover how Lynne's personal experiences and family background influence her work. She emphasizes the importance of collaboration, staying connected with people, and the joy of creating art that resonates with others. Balancing Business and Creativity: Lynne offers insights into managing the business side of being an artist while maintaining the joy of creating. She discusses her approach to running her studio, mentoring other artists, and the satisfaction of seeing her work bring joy to others. Personal Anecdotes and Inspirations: Lynne shares personal stories from her childhood, her experiences with artist residencies, and the influence of her parents on her creative path. She also discusses her love for nature and how it inspires her botanical works. Detailed Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Lynne Sandri, her background, and the scope of today's discussion. 03:30 - Exploring the themes of time, generational differences, and the concept of home in Lynne's work. 15:20 - Insights into Lynne's creative processes and her experimentation with various mediums. 25:45 - Discussing the balance between the business side of art and the joy of creating. 37:30 - Personal anecdotes from Lynne on finding joy in art and her inspirations from nature. 50:00 - Listener Q&A with Lynne on practical advice for aspiring artists and maintaining creativity. Guest Bio: Lynne Sandri is a Wellington-based visual artist with over 25 years of experience. Her work explores themes of time, generational differences, and the evolving concept of home. Lynne experiments with various mediums, creating textured, touchable art that resonates deeply with viewers. Her paintings are held in major private and corporate collections internationally and throughout New Zealand. Lynne is also known for her mentorship of other artists and her involvement in art exhibitions and events. If you found this episode inspiring, please rate and leave a review on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify. Next on the Bountifull Podcast: Stay tuned for our next episode where we delve into creativity, connection and love with creative genius and academy award winner Sir Richard Taylor from Weta Workshop.  Subscribe on Spotify or Apple Podcasts Follow Sian Simpson on Instagram Follow Sian Simpson on LinkedIn Follow Bountifull on Instagram Follow Bountifull on LinkedIn Subscribe to Bountifull on YouTube Visit our Website Subscribe to our Newsletter Follow Lynne Sandri on Instagram #Art #Creativity #Podcast #Home #GenerationalDifferences #VisualArt #NewZealand  #Bountiful #Inspiration #Joy #life

Join us on the Bountifull Podcast as we kick off the season with an insightful conversation with Paul Conway, Chief Economist at the Reserve Bank of New Zealand. Based in Wellington but with a perspective that spans globally, Paul brings his extensive experience from the OECD and the World Bank to discuss how economic policies touch every aspect of our lives—from the cost of living crises visible at the petrol pump and grocery store, to the subtle joys that shape our daily happiness. In This Episode, You'll Discover:Understanding Economic Impact: Explore how global and national economic policies underpin crucial aspects of our everyday lives, extending beyond personal finance to societal well-being and sustainability. The Cost of Living Crisis: A deep dive into the current economic landscape of New Zealand, examining rampant inflation and its effects on ordinary people. Paul discusses the role of the Reserve Bank and offers insights into potential solutions and strategies. Economics of Food: Delve into discussions on how economic pressures influence food prices, focusing on sustainable ways to manage and reduce the costs associated with healthy eating. Learn about the impact of global economic trends and supply chain issues on food affordability. Finding Joy: Discover how Paul's professional expertise in economics blends with his personal passions, offering insights into achieving a balanced, joyful life through economic understanding. Detailed Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Paul Conway, his background, and the scope of today's discussion. 03:30 - Insights on global economic factors that impact our daily lives. 15:20 - Examining the inflation trends in New Zealand and strategies to mitigate high costs of living. 25:45 - Discussion on sustainable food practices and economic policies to make healthy eating more affordable. 37:30 - Personal anecdotes from Paul on finding joy in simple things and how economic principles connect to everyday life. 50:00 - Listener Q&A with Paul on practical economic strategies for everyday financial challenges. Guest Bio: Paul Conway is the Chief Economist at the Reserve Bank of New Zealand. With a distinguished career at major global institutions like the OECD and the World Bank, Paul specialises in translating complex economic issues into actionable insights that can improve personal well-being and societal health. His work is pivotal in shaping policies that target both macroeconomic stability and sustainable growth. Note: this interview was done on December 13th 2023. Subscribe to the Bountiful Podcast on your favorite platform to ensure you never miss an episode. If you found this episode insightful, please rate and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Next on the Bountiful Podcast: Stay tuned for our next episode where we delve into the world of art, and challenging the status quo with professional and renowned artist Lynne Sandri. Subscribe on Spotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/70IUe3FNpOc9A96DKo5odS Subscribe on Apple Podcasts:https://podcasts.apple.com/nz/podcast/bountifull-podcast/id1744291290 Follow Sian Simpson on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/sianalexissimpson/ Follow Sian Simpson on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/siansimpson/ Follow Sian Simpson on Twitter:https://twitter.com/siansimpson Follow Bountifull on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/bountifullworld/ Follow Bountifull on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/bountifullworld Subscribe to Bountifull on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@bountifullworld Visit our Website:https://www.bountifullworld.com/podcast/ Subscribe to our Newsletter:https://www.bountifullworld.com/subscribe/ Follow Paul Conway on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-conway-b8a05925/ #Economics #CostOfLiving #Inflation #SustainableLiving #PersonalFinance #Food #NewZealand #EconomicPolicy #Joy #Podcast #Bountiful

Welcome to the Bountiful Podcast where we explore what it means to live a bountiful life. We're here to delve into the depths of joy and uncover more about ourselves along the way. Bountifull is my response to a world in need of more joy. Witnessing the struggles many face in finding happiness amidst economic pressures and societal shifts, I'm making it my mission to uplift and inspire through stories of resilience, creativity, and connection. Join me on a journey as we explore themes of joy and navigate life's twists and turns together with extraordinary guests from diverse backgrounds.  From leading economists to Academy Award winners, food innovators to renowned artists, our season is filled with delightful conversations that offer unique perspectives on what it means to live a bountiful life, along with practical advice from their domain.  Welcome to the Bountiful Podcast, I'm your host Sian Simpson.  Let's begin.