Bountifull Podcast

“Notice the nature around you — and take time to just be.”In this conversation, Holli-Anne Passmore explores the powerful relationship between nature, wellbeing, and meaning in life. Her work focuses on how small, everyday interactions with the natural world can shift how we feel, think, and experience our lives.We often think of nature as something we have to travel to — mountains, oceans, national parks. But what if the real shift comes from simply paying attention to what's already around us?Holli-Anne shares that it's not just time in nature that matters — it's the quality of attention we bring to it. Noticing the sky, the trees, the small details in everyday life can create a measurable impact on wellbeing, helping us feel more connected, calm, and alive.The conversation also explores the difference between feeling good and living a meaningful life, why boredom is essential for creativity, and how slowing down can help us understand what truly matters.This is a grounded, practical conversation about how to live more fully — not by doing more, but by noticing more.Episode HighlightsWhy nature is not “out there” — it's all around usThe science of nature and its impact on wellbeingWhy noticing nature matters more than time spent outdoorsThe emotion of “elevation” and feeling deeply connectedMeaning vs feeling good — what actually mattersWhy boredom is essential for creativityLiving at “human speed” instead of constant hustleHow nature can reduce loneliness and increase connectionUnderstanding the environments where you feel most aliveThe concept of “enough” and letting go of moreChapters00:00 — How nature impacts wellbeing03:00 — What makes life feel meaningful09:50 — What a bountiful life really is11:20 — Why boredom matters19:20 — What is nature connectedness24:20 — Nature prescriptions and mental health29:00 — Cognitive benefits of nature33:30 — Meaning vs feeling good36:00 — Nature, time, and “enough”39:20 — Finding environments that suit you46:00 — Nature in cities and everyday life54:40 — What people misunderstand about nature58:50 — Tools for tough days01:03:30 — Final reflections on living wellGuest BioHolli-Anne Passmore is an Associate Professor of Psychology at Concordia University of Edmonton and a leading researcher in nature connectedness, wellbeing, and meaning in life. She is the Director of the Nature-Meaning in Life Research Lab and her work focuses on practical, everyday interventions that help people improve mental health, reduce loneliness, and live more meaningful lives through their relationship with the natural world.The Bountifull Podcast explores what it means to live a bountiful life through thoughtful, honest conversations with interesting people from diverse backgrounds. Each episode weaves together real stories, practical ideas, and personal reflections on topics like well-being, resilience, connection, creativity, and meaning. In a world that can often feel noisy and disconnected, Bountifull offers a space to pause, reflect, and reconnect with what matters, helping listeners find more joy in their lives, every day.https://www.bountifullworld.com/weekly-question/

When full-time work ends, the daily structure and identity that came with it shifts, sometimes in ways people don't anticipate. In this conversation, Klay Williams shares what he's learned from coaching people through this transition, including insights from a documentary series following three individuals navigating retirement.Klay's background is unusual. He began as a purpose coach working with Fortune 500 executives at companies such as Google and Airbnb. During the pandemic, he noticed older adults increasingly reaching out — not for career advancement, but for something else entirely. That pattern led him to shift his practice and create The Just Beginning Project, focused on retirement transitions.This conversation explores both the practical and personal dimensions of retirement: how routine, relevance, and daily rhythm change when work structure falls away. We discuss why financial planning addresses only part of the picture, how long-standing patterns can resurface, and what Klay has observed about loneliness, identity, purpose and contribution during this stage of life.Topics explored: The shift in routine, identity, and daily structure in retirementWhy people often feel unfulfilled even after careful planningHow the loneliness epidemic shows up for older adults- The difference between following inherited expectations versus your own pathWhat happens emotionally when people feel replaced after leaving workPractical approaches to retirement that go beyond financesThis is a thoughtful exploration of a life phase that many plan for financially but few prepare for emotionally, and what Klay has learned from working directly with people moving through it.Watch the docuseries here: www.justbeginning.info/Chapters: 00:00 – Life beyond full-time work05:12 – Klay's shift from executive coaching to retirement transitions12:45 – What changes when work structure disappears20:30 – Planning financially versus preparing personally29:10 – Loneliness, relevance, and contribution38:25 – Inherited expectations and identity47:50 – Feeling replaced after leaving work56:40 – What carries forward into life beyond careerGuest Bio – Klay WilliamsKlay Williams is the founder of The Just Beginning Project, an initiative focused on supporting people as they move beyond traditional careers and into retirement. He began his career as a purpose coach working with Fortune 500 executives at companies including Google and Airbnb. During the pandemic, he noticed a growing number of older adults seeking guidance not about career progression, but about life after work. That shift led him to refocus his practice and create a documentary series following three individuals navigating retirement in real time. His work centres on the practical and personal realities of this transition.Learn more about Klay here: www.klayswilliams.com/Bountifull Podcast: The Bountifull Podcast explores what it means to live a bountiful life through thoughtful conversations about personal growth, purpose, health, money, and connection. Featuring scientists, creatives, entrepreneurs, and experts from diverse fields, the show looks at the practical and human side of building a meaningful life.Explore our podcast episodes here: www.bountifullworld.com/podcast/Follow us on Instagram here: www.instagram.com/bountifullpodcast/

We talk a lot about women's cycles — hormonal, emotional, seasonal — but rarely about men's. In this episode, Jed Diamond helps bring men into the conversation.With over 50 years of experience working with men and families, Jed explains how men move through powerful biological and emotional rhythms across their lives. From daily and seasonal hormonal shifts to the deeper transition of male menopause, these cycles influence mood, energy, libido, relationships, and identity — often without men or their partners realising what's happening.Rather than framing midlife as a crisis, Jed offers a different lens: a threshold. A moment where the first half of life gives way to a second mountain — one shaped less by proving and producing, and more by purpose, connection, and contribution.We also explore Irritable Male Syndrome, unpacking why irritability, anger, withdrawal, and low mood can emerge at any age, and how stress, diet, isolation, and unresolved trauma interact with male biology. Throughout the conversation, the emphasis is practical and compassionate, grounded in real-life patterns rather than blame or stigma.This episode is an invitation to build literacy around men's inner lives — for men themselves, and for anyone who lives, works, or loves alongside them.In This Episode, We ExploreHow men's hormones fluctuate and influence mood, energy, and behaviourWhat male menopause is — and why it's often misunderstoodThe relationship between testosterone, irritability, depression, and withdrawalIrritable Male Syndrome and its biological, psychological, and cultural rootsHow stress, diet, sleep, and connection affect men's emotional wellbeingWhy midlife can be a transition rather than a crisisThe role of friendship, vulnerability, and emotional awareness in men's healthChapters:00:00 – Midlife, hormones, and men's health02:25 – Jed Diamond's story and why this work matters09:30 – Do men have cycles?18:40 – Male menopause and midlife change29:20 – Irritable Male Syndrome39:15 – Relationships and emotional wellbeing50:20 – Purpose, ageing, and the second half of lifeGuest Bio: Jed DiamondJed Diamond, PhD, is a leading voice in men's health, hormones, and emotional wellbeing. He is the founder of MenAlive and the author of 17 books, including Surviving Male Menopause and The Irritable Male Syndrome. For more than five decades, his work has focused on helping men understand life transitions, emotional health, and relationships.https://menalive.com/About the Bountifull PodcastThe Bountifull Podcast is where we explore what it means to live a bountiful life. Through thoughtful, honest conversations with interesting people from diverse backgrounds, the podcast explores joy, resilience, health, purpose, and the small choices that shape how we live every day — especially in a world that often rewards more, faster, and louder.Over on email every week we share a question for reflection and conversation — you're welcome to join if that feels useful, sign up here.

In this episode of the Bountifull Podcast, we explore the often-hidden role of shame and stigma in shaping how we live, relate, and see ourselves — and why understanding them is essential to living a truly bountiful life. Through a thoughtful, grounded conversation with clinical psychologist Magenta Silberman, we unpack how shame differs from guilt, how it quietly embeds itself into identity and self-worth, and how it can limit joy, connection, and meaning when left unexamined.Shame is an internal and deeply personal experience — less about what we've done and more about who we believe we are. Unlike guilt, which can motivate repair and help us grow, shame tends to drive silence, withdrawal, and disconnection. We explore how shame can be adaptive in small doses, helping guide behaviour and social belonging, but becomes harmful when internalised or amplified by stigma, cultural expectations, or environments that clash with our values.The conversation looks closely at where shame shows up: in relationships, work, achievement, identity, parenting, mental health, and especially during the vulnerable transition into adulthood. We also examine how stigma — around mental illness, therapy, trauma, substance use, or identity — compounds shame and prevents people from seeking support, particularly in rural or conservative communities.Importantly, the discussion moves beyond theory into lived experience, including the gap between performance and self-worth, the pressure of “shoulds,” and the quiet shame of feeling unfulfilled even when life looks successful on paper. We explore the body–mind connection through the lens of trauma and the nervous system, highlighting how shame can be felt viscerally and why avoidance so often becomes a coping strategy.Ultimately, this episode offers a compassionate reframe: naming shame is the first step to loosening its grip. By bringing shame into awareness — rather than silence — we create space for connection, self-trust, and a more expansive, bountiful way of living.Episode Highlights: The difference between shame and guilt — and why it mattersHow shame shows up in work, relationships, identity, and achievementWhy shame thrives in silence and isolationThe role of stigma in mental health and help-seekingHow shame lives in the body and nervous systemThe pressure of “shoulds” and performance-based self-worthWhy naming shame is a powerful step toward freedom and connectionTimestamps: 00:00 – Why we avoid naming shame05:00 – Identity, achievement, and living a bountiful life11:30 – Shame vs guilt and why the difference matters17:40 – When shame helps us — and when it harms us25:45 – Performance, “shoulds,” and self-worth30:40 – Stigma, silence, and asking for help34:10 – Shame in the body and nervous system45:30 – Naming shame and choosing connectionGuest Bio: Magenta Silberman is a clinical psychologist based in Utah who works across assessment and therapy, supporting people through a wide range of mental health experiences. Her work is grounded in a trauma-informed approach, with a particular interest in identity, self-worth, and how shame and stigma shape our lives.About the Bountifull Podcast: The Bountifull Podcast explores what it means to live a bountiful life through thoughtful conversations focused on personal growth, mental health, and everyday self-improvement. Each episode offers practical insights and reflective “how-to” ideas to help listeners build more joyful, resilient, and meaningful lives.https://bountifullworld.com/

In this episode, Michael Breus, widely known as The Sleep Doctor, explores why sleep is not just a health habit, but the foundation of how we feel, think, and experience life.Michael explains that sleep underpins our ability to experience joy, regulate emotions, focus, and build resilience. When we're sleep deprived, positive emotions are dampened, negative thinking intensifies, and even small challenges can feel overwhelming. In his clinical work, he's seen how improving sleep can create rapid, life-changing shifts—often faster than almost any other intervention.The conversation moves beyond basic sleep hygiene to address the psychology of sleep, particularly anxiety and fear. Michael shares that many sleep issues are driven not by biology alone, but by emotional and nervous-system safety. When fear—financial, relational, or psychological—is present, heart rate stays elevated, making true rest impossible. Addressing the root cause, rather than simply medicating symptoms, is often where real healing begins.Michael outlines five small, evidence-based changes that can dramatically improve sleep: waking at the same time every day, hydrating before caffeine, stopping caffeine by early afternoon, limiting alcohol in the evening, exercising daily (but not too late), and getting morning sunlight. He also emphasises the often-overlooked role of environment—especially pillows, air quality, and allergens—in sleep quality.A key highlight is Michael's chronotype framework—Lions, Bears, Wolves, and Dolphins—which helps people understand their natural sleep rhythms. Rather than forcing a one-size-fits-all schedule, he encourages aligning sleep, work, and relationships with individual biology.Ultimately, this episode reframes sleep not as a problem to fix, but as a relationship to tend. When sleep improves, life doesn't just feel easier—it becomes more spacious, joyful, and bountiful.Episode HighlightsHow sleep supports emotional balance, focus, and everyday joyWhy working with your natural sleep rhythm matters more than optimisationThe connection between sleep, calmness, and nervous system regulationSimple, realistic habits that support better sleep over timeWhy rest helps us show up more fully in our lives and relationshipsTimestamps:00:00 – Why Sleep Shapes How We Feel, Think, and Experience Life. Sleep as the foundation for mood, focus, energy, and joy.07:45 – Why Sleep Advice Isn't One-Size-Fits-All. Chronotypes, circadian rhythms, and working with your biology.15:20 – How Sleep Affects Mood, Emotions, and Joy. Why sleep deprivation amplifies negativity and dulls positive emotion.24:10 – Sleep, Anxiety, and Nervous System Safety.How fear, stress, and emotional load keep the body from resting.36:30 – Simple Ways to Improve Sleep Without Perfection. Small, realistic changes that make a meaningful difference.47:50 – Sleep, Relationships, and Shared Rhythms. Navigating different sleep patterns with partners and families.55:30 – How Better Sleep Changes Resilience and Everyday Life. What becomes possible when we're truly well rested.Guest BioMichael Breus, PhD, is a clinical psychologist, board-certified sleep specialist, and best-selling author, widely known as The Sleep Doctor. With over 25 years of experience in sleep research and clinical practice, he is one of the few psychologists to pass the American Board of Sleep Medicine exam. Michael is the author of The Power of When and Good Night, and regularly appears in global media including The Today Show, Oprah, and CNN, sharing accessible, science-based insights on sleep and wellbeing.https://sleepdoctor.com/About Bountifull PodcastThe Bountifull Podcast explores what it means to live a bountiful life through honest, thoughtful conversations with interesting people from diverse backgrounds, sharing real stories, lessons, and reflections on work, life, and meaning.https://bountifullworld.com/

In this episode, Cheryl Sew Hoy explains how gut health affects immunity, mental health, hormones, and resilience, drawing on both microbiome science and her own experience building Tiny Health. She shares how a deeply personal journey into motherhood led her to rethink gut health as a foundation for lifelong wellbeing, and why the microbiome - particularly in the first 1,000 days of a babies life - plays a critical role in immune health, resilience, and mental health.The conversation moves through what the gut actually does, why balance and diversity matter more than eliminating bacteria, and how the gut–brain connection works, including the surprising number of key hormones produced in the gut. Cheryl also explains why testing and education offer clearer direction than supplements or guesswork, and how factors like birth interventions, antibiotics, diet, sleep, and stress shape gut health over time. Alongside this, she reflects on entrepreneurship, parenting, and sleep, and what it means to live a bountiful life that feels full, without taking life too seriously.Episode HighlightsHow gut health influences immunity, mental health, energy, and resilienceThe gut–brain connection and the surprising number of hormones produced in the gutWhy the first 1,000 days of a babies life matters for expecting parents, mothers and fathers. Testing versus guessing in a crowded wellness landscapeWhat entrepreneurship teaches us about patience, perspective, and long-term thinkingLiving a bountiful life as something full, complex, and ongoingTimestamps 00:00 — Why gut health matters and what sparked Tiny Health09:00 — What living a bountiful life means to Cheryl12:30 — Gut health basics and why balance matters more than trends18:00 — The gut–brain connection and hormones made in the gut26:00 — Diet, fibre, fermented foods, and supporting gut health33:00 — The first 1,000 days and why gut health matters for parents55:00 — Entrepreneurship, long-term thinking, and perspective01:02:00 — Sleep, resilience, and not taking life too seriouslyGuest Bio: Cheryl Sew Hoy is an entrepreneur, speaker, angel investor, and founder & CEO of Tiny Health, a health-tech company focused on evidence-based gut microbiome testing for families. She launched Tiny Health in 2020 after her first child faced eczema, sleep challenges, and food sensitivities, which led her deep into microbiome science and the importance of the first 1,000 days of life. Cheryl holds a bachelor's degree in Operations Research and Industrial Engineering and a master's in Engineering Management and Data Mining from Cornell University. Before Tiny Health, she co-founded the software startup Reclip.It, which was acquired by Walmart Labs, and served as the founding CEO of the Malaysian Global Innovation and Creativity Centre (MaGIC), building the region's startup ecosystem. She's known for blending technical expertise with a systems perspective on health, startups, and resilient living.About the Bountifull PodcastThe Bountifull Podcast explores what it means to live a bountiful life through honest, thoughtful conversations with interesting people from diverse backgrounds, sharing real stories, lessons, and reflections on work, life, and meaning.https://www.bountifullworld.com/

In this episode of the Bountifull Podcast, we sit down with Tasman Denize, the creator behind NZ Wild Adventures, to talk about life lived close to the land - hunting, fishing, boating, camping, and many very remote solo adventures. Raised in the remote Marlborough Sounds, Tasman grew up with solitude, self-reliance, and a deep connection to nature as everyday realities.Our conversation explores what the wild teaches you about patience, risk, and responsibility, and why simplicity matters. Tasman shares how time alone helps him feel clearer and more grounded, why he works as little as possible to support the life he wants, and how adventure doesn't require expensive gear—just preparation, awareness, and respect for your limits.This episode is a quiet reflection on freedom, self-trust, and the kind of peace that comes from slowing down and paying attention — and as Tasman says, the word that describes his life? Free. How absolutely inspiring is that.What talk about: Growing up remote in the Marlborough Sounds and learning self-reliance earlyLife shaped by solitude, correspondence schooling, and time outdoorsWhy Tasman chooses simplicity over excess — in gear, work, and lifestyleLong solo trips, including extended time in FiordlandRisk, safety, and knowing where the line is between bravery and recklessnessHunting and gathering for food, and Tasman's philosophy around eating what you catchWorking as little as possible to spend more time in natureWhy expensive gear isn't necessary — preparation and awareness matter moreHow time alone helps Tasman feel clearer, calmer, and more groundedFreedom, family, and spending time where it really mattersKey ThemesSimplicitySelf-trustSolitudeFreedomNature as a grounding forceOne Line That Stays With UsWhen asked what word best describes his life, Tasman's answer is simple: Free.About the Bountifull PodcastThe Bountifull Podcast explores what it means to live a bountiful life through honest, thoughtful conversations with interesting people from diverse backgrounds, sharing real stories, lessons, and reflections on work, life, and meaning.⁠https://www.bountifullworld.com/

Hayden Paddon is one of the world's top rally drivers, but this conversation goes well beyond motorsport. It's about what happens inside a person when the pressure is high, the stakes are real, and nothing is guaranteed.Hayden grew up around racing and has spent most of his life pushing cars — and himself — to their limits. From winning a World Championship in Argentina to losing his seat, his confidence, and his enjoyment of the sport, he speaks openly about the moments that shaped him. What stands out is his honesty about doubt, fear, patience, and the long road back when things fall apart. This isn't a polished success story; it's a grounded reflection on what it takes to keep going.Much of the conversation centres on self-trust. Hayden explains how he prepares his mind for extreme conditions, why staying present matters more than visualising outcomes, and how experience — not bravado — has made him a better driver over time. He talks about flow states, anger as a surprising motivator, and why accepting who you are can sometimes be more powerful than trying to fix yourself.We also explore the personal cost of success: years spent away from home, the loneliness of professional sport, and the moment he realised he'd stopped enjoying the thing that once saved him. Hayden reflects on what it took to reset, strip everything back, and reconnect with why he started racing in the first place.Now in a new chapter, Hayden is focused on building a team, challenging convention, and pushing innovation through electric and alternative-fuel rally cars. Throughout the episode, he returns to the same ideas: patience, loyalty, honesty, and learning to stay in the moment — whether you're driving at 200 kilometres an hour or navigating a difficult season of life.This is a thoughtful, grounded conversation about pressure, identity, resilience, and what it really means to keep going. Hayden's story challenges romanticised ideas of success and reminds us that meaning isn't borrowed or inherited — it's earned over time, often through doing rather than thinking. A bountiful life doesn't have to look gentle, but it does need to be honest.You can find Hayden on social media here: https://www.instagram.com/haydenpaddon/About the Bountifull PodcastThe Bountifull Podcast explores what it means to live a bountiful life through honest, thoughtful conversations with interesting people from diverse backgrounds, sharing real stories, lessons, and reflections on work, life, and meaning.https://www.bountifullworld.com/

What if defiance wasn't a flaw, but a skill? In this episode, Dr. Sunita Sah—physician, behavioural scientist, and author of Defy—shares how reclaiming agency and redefining what it means to say “no” can change the trajectory of our lives. Raised to equate goodness with compliance, Sunita's journey is a powerful reminder that being agreeable often comes at a cost: to our integrity, our well-being, and our sense of self.We explore the psychology behind why we say yes when we mean no, the invisible social pressures that shape our decisions, and why discomfort is a sign—not of weakness, but of wisdom. Sunita offers a practical five-stage framework for living in alignment with your values, and explains how simple tools like pausing before responding or speaking to yourself in the third person can help you make braver, truer choices.This conversation is a compassionate guide for people-pleasers, quiet rebels, and anyone who has ever struggled to hold their ground. A bountiful life, as Sunita reveals, isn't lived without tension—it's one where that tension is honoured, examined, and transformed into something meaningful.Episode HighlightsWhy defiance is essential to a meaningful lifeThe difference between compliance, consent, and true defianceHow to find and clarify your personal valuesThe hidden social pressures behind people-pleasing and “yes” cultureFive stages of ethical defiance (from tension to action)Quiet defiance, false defiance, and performative rebellionSaying no with grace—and without over-explainingGuest BioDr. Sunita Sah is a national bestselling author, an award-winning professor at Cornell University and an expert in organizational psychology. She leads groundbreaking research on influence, authority, compliance, and defiance. A trained physician, she practiced medicine in the United Kingdom and worked as a management consultant for the pharmaceutical industry. She currently teaches executives, leaders, and students in healthcare and business. Dr. Sah is a sought-after international speaker and consultant, advisor to government agencies, and former Commissioner of the National Commission on Forensic Science. Her multidisciplinary research and analyses have been widely published in leading academic journals and media entities including The New York Times, Los Angeles Times, Harvard Business Review, and Scientific American. She lives with her husband and son in New York.The Bountifull Podcast explores how to live a purposeful, joyful life by connecting with interesting people from diverse backgrounds. Each episode unpacks practical wisdom and real stories on themes like boundaries, saying no, psychological safety, compliance, consent, and living in alignment with your values.

What if the simplest acts of giving could transform your confidence, resilience, and sense of purpose? In this inspiring episode, resilience psychologist Dr Alia Bojilova shares why contribution—small acts of meaningful generosity—can profoundly shape our lives, communities, and well-being.Drawing from her diverse background—from a childhood in post-communist Bulgaria to her distinguished career as an Army Officer and Lead Psychologist with the elite New Zealand Special Air Service (1NZSAS), and now as a global resilience expert—Alia redefines contribution not as grand gestures, but as everyday actions that connect us deeply to others and ourselves. She reveals how contribution boosts self-worth, builds genuine resilience, strengthens relationships, and guides us toward purpose and meaning.Together, we explore the science behind why contribution matters, how even tiny gestures create powerful ripple effects, and how to integrate this practice into our daily lives. Alia reminds us that true abundance isn't about what we accumulate—it's about how generously we share our lives.✨ Episode Highlights:

“So much of what's meaningful about science is the process of discovering something that nobody else knew.”What can the universe teach us about being human? For astrophysicist and NASA program scientist Joshua Pepper, the answer lies in curiosity, contribution, and learning to sit with the unknown. In this episode of the Bountifull Podcast, we talk about exoplanets, randomness, and the emotional realities of life in science—from funding cycles and impostor syndrome to the joy of a good spreadsheet. Joshua reflects on the long arc of discovery, the privilege of asking big questions, and why we should make time to look up.This is an episode about wonder and meaning, but also one about endurance. Because sometimes a bountiful life isn't about answers—it's about the people you meet, the questions that stay with you, and the quiet courage it takes to keep going.✨ Episode Highlights

“I wanted more stuff that felt like it was mine.” Zara Davidson's life has been defined by excellence — elite basketballer, top of her class, and a rising force in AI. But behind the accolades is a story of transition, questioning, and quiet reinvention. In this episode, she opens up about the intensity of her athletic and corporate years, the quarter-life unraveling that followed, and the slow, tender process of rediscovering joy through Pilates, friendship, and shell-painting on the beach. Zara reminds us that identity isn't fixed — it's shaped, stretched, and sometimes surrendered.Zara's journey invites us to reimagine success not as achievement, but as ownership — of time, energy, and joy. She shows us that a bountiful life isn't found in the grand gestures, but in the intentional details: planking in your living room, spotting bunnies on your morning walk, or making something with your hands just for the fun of it. Through her honesty and humour, she nudges us to let go of who we think we should be, and instead ask: What actually feels like mine?

“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.