Life Lessons: From Sport and Beyond

If you're someone who struggles to charge what you're worth — this one's for you. In this clip from our conversation, Dr John DeMartini shares powerful stories and strategies for shifting your mindset around pricing, delegation, and self-worth. He explains how your income often reflects how much you truly value yourself — and what to do if you know you're undercharging. We also discuss: Why burnout isn't always caused by the work itself The real reason people hesitate to delegate How to build confidence in your value Why the world mirrors your internal sense of worth If you would like to explore more you can sign up for my free mini-course on finding flow: https://www.simonmundie.com/restore-balance-mini-course Or get in touch about 1:1 explorations: https://www.simonmundie.com/restore-balance-coaching Other links: YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In his superb book No Self, No Problem: How Neuropsychology is catching up to Buddhism Chris Niebauer explains how the left side of the brain — brilliant at language and problem-solving — also creates constant mental chatter. It labels, judges, compares, and spins stories, including the biggest story of all — the idea of a solid identity or self-concept. But this overthinking isn't who we are — it's just a habit of the left brain doing what it does. In this conversation, Chris shares how recognising this can free us from getting caught in endless thought loops, helping us drop back into the present moment where clarity, ease, and creativity naturally arise. Key Insights: The left brain is responsible for language, categorization, and creating a narrative of who we are Our thinking mind is not our true self, but a survival mechanism that generates constant stories Suffering often leads people to spiritual exploration and understanding consciousness The right brain represents intuition, playfulness, and immediate experience Consciousness is fundamental, not an emergent property of the brain Meditation and self-inquiry can help us recognize the space between thoughts Themes Explored: The illusion of self Limitations of psychology and materialism Flow states and intuition The role of suffering in personal growth Potential of AI and consciousness If you would like to explore more you can sign up for my free mini-course on finding flow: https://www.simonmundie.com/restore-balance-mini-course Or get in touch about 1:1 explorations: https://www.simonmundie.com/restore-balance-coaching Other links: YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Success is not synonymous with happiness and wellbeing. So many high performers reach the top of the proverbial Everest only to discover that it did not provide the lasting satisfaction that it seemed to promise. One such person is Caitlyn Jenner, who won gold in the Olympic decathlon in 1976. However, the issues that were bubbling away under the surface were free to reassert themselves once the Games were over. If you would like to explore more you can sign up for our free mini-course on beating burnout and finding flow: https://www.simonmundie.com/restore-balance-mini-course Or get in touch about 1:1 explorations: https://www.simonmundie.com/restore-balance-coaching Other links: YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Philosopher and consciousness researcher Bernardo Kastrup argues that reality isn't made of matter — it's made of mind. And that insight, if true, changes everything: how we relate to each other, how we handle grief, how we understand mental illness, and even how we live day to day. In this conversation, Simon and Bernardo explore what it means to live from a worldview that sees all of life as interconnected. They go deep into fear, death, empathy, identity, and the consequences of seeing through the illusion of separation — not as a spiritual ideal, but as an existential truth. They discuss: Why Bernardo fears death — and what it might mean to merge with all suffering The lived consequences of seeing others as yourself How this view affects grief, kindness, and the way we consume Where materialism breaks down — and what might replace it Why moments of flow, play, and stillness matter more than we realise The role of madness and suffering in our evolution as a species Bernardo's book Analytic Idealism in a nutshell: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Analytic-Idealism-Nutshell-straightforward-metaphysics/dp/1803416696 You can watch this episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o8yTY3Fw1Ns&t=233s If you would like to explore more you can sign up for our free mini-course on beating burnout and finding flow: https://www.simonmundie.com/restore-balance-mini-course Or get in touch about 1:1 explorations: https://www.simonmundie.com/restore-balance-coaching Other links: YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“How you do anything is how you do everything.” That's the core of Ryan Holiday's message in this bitesize episode. The bestselling author of The Obstacle is the Way shares why Stoicism — which he calls “the most practical of all philosophies” — is ultimately about action. Every moment is a chance to show up fully, to do our best, and to live in alignment with our values. We won't always succeed — but we can always try. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We've all said it — “there just aren't enough hours in the day.” But Jasmin Paris proves otherwise. In 2019, she won the gruelling 268-mile Spine Race — not only becoming the first woman to win it, but beating the men's course record by 12 hours. Alongside being an elite ultrarunner, Jasmin is a mum, a vet, and lives a full family life. She's a brilliant example of what it looks like to prioritise what truly matters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why do so many of us feel anxious, disconnected, or low — even when, on the surface, life looks fine? Psychologist and author Dr Margaret Paul believes the answer lies in self-abandonment — the subtle but powerful ways we disconnect from our feelings, judge ourselves, and hand responsibility for our emotional lives to others. In this episode, Simon is joined by the creator of the Inner Bonding process, a six-step pathway to healing that's helped tens of thousands of people reconnect to themselves. This conversation is particularly personal — as Margaret's work had a big impact on Simon's life over a decade ago, and continues to inform his own work around burnout, flow and self-leadership today. What we explore: The four core ways people abandon themselves How digital distraction keeps us emotionally disconnected What it means to develop a “loving adult” inner voice Practices for tuning into your feelings with compassion How this work can transform relationships, leadership and wellbeing https://www.simonmundie.com/restore-balance-mini-course https://www.simonmundie.com/restore-balance-coaching My links: Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/ Info@simonmundie.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr Emma Seppälä — psychologist, author of Sovereign, and faculty at Yale and Stanford — explains why you can't think your way out of anxiety, and how the breath, body and nervous system hold the key to deep emotional healing. https://www.simonmundie.com/restore-balance-mini-course https://www.simonmundie.com/restore-balance-coaching My links: Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/ Info@simonmundie.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

‘I am the master of my stress mechanisms' Wim Hof – aka the Iceman – says that our obsession with comfot comes at a great cost. What's the answer? To go consciously into stressful situations, to change our relationship to it. https://www.simonmundie.com/restore-balance-mini-course https://www.simonmundie.com/restore-balance-coaching My links: Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/ Info@simonmundie.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Burnout isn't just a buzzword — it's a creeping, physiological and psychological disconnection that's become all too common in high-achieving cultures. And often, the people most affected are the ones least likely to see it. In this episode, I'm joined by Dr Clare Ashley — author of A Burnout Doctor and former NHS medic — who knows this terrain from the inside. After her own collapse early in her medical career, Clare began to explore burnout not just as a condition, but as a message. We explore: Why denial is often a hallmark of burnout The subtle early signs we tend to ignore How purpose, community and autonomy act as protective forces Why 20% of meaningful work can shift everything How burnout recovery ties in with self-awareness, flow and intention This is a vital conversation — especially if you've been pushing through, wondering why you're so tired, or feel like something's been missing.

Feeling anxious? One of the best ways to address anxiety can be through improving the health of your gut microbiome - which produces serotonin (think SSRI antidepressants) and GABA (think Valium). Improving gut health is something I am passionate about - and I'm delighted @tim.spector could join me on A New Way of Being https://www.simonmundie.com/restore-balance-mini-course https://www.simonmundie.com/restore-balance-coaching My links: Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/ Info@simonmundie.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“It's not about being fully present in every moment, but how quickly you can come back.” I'm delighted to be joined by Danny Donachie — a coach, speaker and former athlete whose work bridges presence, self-inquiry, and performance. Danny has worked with top athletes and football clubs, but his path has also taken him deep into meditation, yoga, and spiritual practice. After a powerful awakening experience in Amsterdam, his focus and experience shifted. We talk about getting out of your own way, the role of breath and body, energy centres, attention, Sadhguru, Rupert Sheldrake, Novak Djokovic's approach to recovery and mental strength and what it means to get out of your own way. KEY TOPICS Awakening through presence: Danny's experience in Amsterdam and the energetic aspect of awareness Mental strength is a practice: Quick recovery and soft focus are more important than perfection Digital distraction vs. deep attention The body as a gateway: Subtle sensations are the key to a deeper awareness Meditation redefined: It's not about never drifting — it's about how gently and quickly you return Letting go in sport and life Consciousness beyond the brain: Intuition, connection, and non-local awareness The power of intention The miracle of now: Ordinary moments become extraordinary when we're awake To explore these ideas more deeply, you can sign up for my free mini-course on beating burnout and finding flow — or get in touch about 1:1 or group coaching. https://www.simonmundie.com/restore-balance-mini-course https://www.simonmundie.com/restore-balance-coaching My links: Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/ Info@simonmundie.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Have you ever considered the difference between pain and suffering? Pain is inevitable, but suffering doesn't have to be. It's psychological and caused by our propensity to get confused about our fundamental identity. We are NOT who we think we are. My guest is Peter Crone. If you're ready to transcend the thinking mind and uncover the flow state that's available to all of us, check out my free online course on beating burnout and finding flow. And to go deeper and work with me get in touch.

Ever feel like your health is treated as a checklist of symptoms rather than a complete picture? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Erica Matluck to explore what it really means to heal the whole person – body, mind, heart, and spirit. Dr. Matluck shares her Four Quadrants model of health and explains why true wellness means looking beyond the physical. We discuss how ancient wisdom (like Ayurveda's focus on balance) meets modern life, and why your consciousness and spiritual well-being are just as crucial as your diet and exercise. (Spoiler: even hardcore materialists have their own “beliefs” they might not realize.) Dr. Matluck also reveals the often-overlooked power of community and human connection in healing. She guides us through ways to regulate our nervous systems and truly embody wellness, so we're not just thinking about health – we're feeling it. We even dive into the impact of technology on our attention and well-being, and how to find balance in a hyper-connected world. Topics Covered The Four Quadrants of Health – Understanding Dr. Matluck's holistic model addressing the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of well-being (and why each one matters). Ayurvedic Balance – How ancient Ayurveda influences Dr. Matluck's view on finding balance in our bodies and minds, and what we can learn from this time-tested approach. Consciousness & Spirituality – The role of meaning, purpose, and spiritual well-being in healing, and why spirituality isn't as “silly” or “woo-woo” as skeptics might think (hint: materialism is a belief system, too!). Connection & Community – Why healing isn't a solo journey. We talk about the importance of connection, community support, and relationships in achieving and maintaining health. Nervous System & Embodiment – Tips on regulating your nervous system and practicing embodiment, so you can calm stress responses and fully inhabit your body for deeper healing. Tech & Well-Being – The impact of our tech-driven lifestyles on attention and mental health. Dr. Matluck offers insight on navigating smartphones and social media mindfully to protect your well-being. About Dr. Erica Matluck Dr. Erica Matluck is a licensed naturopathic doctor and nurse practitioner with training in Reiki energy healing, yoga, and massage therapy, bringing over two decades of experience bridging Western medicine with ancient wisdom. Dr. Matluck created the Four Quadrants of Health framework as part of her Holistic Intelligence method to help people achieve true wellness by addressing physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual needs. She is the founder of Seven Sensescand has guided thousands of individuals through transformational health journeys. Featured in outlets like Vogue, Well+Good, and MindBodyGreen, Dr. Matluck is known for helping people uncover the root causes of illness, find meaning in their health challenges, and reclaim a vibrant, balanced life. Her website: https://www.experiencesevensenses.com/meet-dr-erica-matluck Substack: https://drericamatluck.substack.com/

Do you find it increasingly difficult to maintain your attention for extended periods? Whether it's reading a book, watching a film, or even engaging in conversation, the ability to focus seems to be slipping away. This phenomenon is one of the biggest challenges of our times, and there's no denying the significant impact of handheld digital devices. Just take a look around - the majority of people on a train platform are glued to their phones. But what's the big deal? The capacity to pay attention is fundamental to a good life and high performance. The author of Stolen Focus Johann Hari explains more

I am delighted to welcome Steve Magness back to the show to discuss moving from survival mode to truly thriving. Modern life, with its relentless pressures and social media's constant comparison trap, leaves many feeling isolated, inadequate, and unfulfilled. So what to do about it? Steve shares his thoughts on the ‘inner game' - the art of intrinsic motivation and long-term fulfilment. Steve opens up about his own experience living in survival mode while being a whistleblower against Nike's Oregon project. We also tackle the shifting nature of the American Dream, from internal fulfilment to external validation, and the vital importance of 'non-attachment'. Highlights: The rise of burnout, mental health struggles, and loneliness in modern society The impact of social media on attention spans and mental health as well as feelings of inadequacy and isolation The ‘inner game'—learning to play for intrinsic motivation, not just external rewards How values and ethics guide decision-making in high-pressure environments The American Dream: from internal fulfilment to chasing external validation Sport as a metaphor for life and why self-transcendence matters more than trophies Non-attachment, the paradox of self and no-self, and the balance between flexibility and security Steve Magness episode 1 - Do Hard Things: https://pod.fo/e/1832d0 Book: https://www.stevemagness.com/books/

Letting Go of the Ego. In this bitesize episode, we revisit a fascinating conversation with Michael Pollan, author of How to Change Your Mind and host of the Netflix series of the same name, about the transformative power of psychedelics and the profound experience of ego death. What happens when we realize we are not the mind, not the constant stream of thoughts we take as ‘me'? Psychedelics have long been used to dissolve the rigid limitations of the self, and Pollan explores how this temporary loss of ego can lead to lasting change—reducing anxiety, shifting perspectives, and offering a glimpse of a reality far beyond our usual mental constructs.

We tend to believe happiness is found when we accumulate money, success and status – but that's actually wide of the mark. According to one of the pre-eminent happiness scientists in the world, real joy is found by tapping into the transformative power of Awe. My links: Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/

Rates of burnout are soaring, and a reason for that is the huge volume of inputs we have. So what to do? Here with a few ideas is Sir John Kirwan – the All Black great who was knighted for services to mental health My links: Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/

Flow is a peak state when we perform at our best, and feel great too. While success is not synonymous with happiness, flow is. So, how do you get in flow? Here is a tried and tested four-step formula. My links: Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/

"We are always striving for the top - but sometimes it's better to embrace being in the middle". Konnie Huq is a TV & Radio presenter, a screenwriter and a children's author, who holds the record for being the longest-serving presenter of the iconic British children's TV programme Blue Peter. The essence of what Konnie speaks about is that our continual striving for more, bigger & better makes us less happy. My links: Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/

"If you can meet with triumph and disaster, and treat those two imposters just the same..." As Rudyard Kipling was well aware, success and failure are relative. Neither change who we fundamentally are, and life goes on. One man who understands this is England cricket captain Jos Buttler, who led England to T20 World Cup success, and who recently stood down as England captain My links: Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/

It can be easy to think of flow in terms of performance but there is much more to it than that – not least that in flow our sense of self disappears and a deeper intelligence arises – some call it the 'intelligent unconscious'. The intelligence that is running 99.9% of the processes in your body right now without your interference – and that is the source of true creativity. Here to talk more about this one is the philosopher Rupert Spira. My links: Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/

Emotional intelligence has been shown to be a more powerful predicator of life satisfaction than IQ. But what is it? And how can you check your emotional intelligence at any given moment? Daniel Goleman is the author of the Bloomsbury best-seller Emotional Intelligence. Danny Kerry is the Olympic gold medal winning coach who came up with the following brilliant EQ checklist: Where am I? Where do I need to be? Where ar they? Where do they need to be? My links: Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/

I have worked with some brilliant broadcasters who are masters at answering questions in such a way as to deftly move the conversation onto safe territory - even when it means not directly answering the question they were asked. This is a vital skill in live broadcasting, but it can be transferred to any other line of work or area of life. Ros Atkins is one of the BBCs best broadcasters and author of The Art of Explanation My links: Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/

Aligning your action with your intrinsic motivations. We are delighted to welcome back to the show renowned author, speaker, and researcher Dr. John Demartini to explore the fundamental importance of aligning your life with your deepest personal values. We discuss: The definition of values as what is most meaningful and motivating to an individual How the brain's cortical and subcortical systems influence our perceptions and decision-making Dr. Demartini's 13-question framework for honestly assessing your true values The role of space, time energy, and money in revealing your priorities The power of authenticity in pricing your services and offerings Embracing reality as it is, rather than how you think it "should" be The path to "awakening" and self-actualisation Practical tips for delegating lower-priority tasks to focus on high-value work Resources Mentioned: Dr. Demartini's website and film: https://drdemartini.com/ My links: Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/

You can't just think your way out of stress and anxiety. Real change happens when the body feels safe. This bitesize episode is with Emma Seppala, a best-selling author, Yale lecturer, and international keynote speaker. A psychologist and research scientist by training, her expertise is the science of happiness, emotional intelligence, and social connection. She has written two best-selling books The Happiness Track and Sovereign. My links: Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/

Rates of burnout are soaring and it is crucial to know how to manage your nervous system before it manages you. Dr. Claire Plumbly is an expert in this area and she shares her insights on the different types of burnout, the importance of recognising the signs, and practical strategies for finding balance and post-burnout growth. This conversation is ideal for anyone looking to better understand and navigate the challenges of our fast-paced, always-connected world. Show Notes: Understanding burnout as a "disease of civilisation" The importance of "switching down the gears" and creating space to rest and recharge Recognising the three dimensions of burnout Exploring the five-stage model of burnout and the importance of self-awareness The autonomic nervous system and polyvagal theory How to foster a sense of safety Practical tips for using breathing techniques and biofeedback to regulate Understanding the impact of early life experiences and attachment styles on burnout Embracing post-burnout growth and living in alignment with personal values Claire's book is called Burnout: How To manage Your Nervous System Before It Manages You: https://www.drclaireplumbly.com/burnout-book Website: https://www.drclaireplumbly.com/ My links: Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/

Your energy follows your attention - so play with that. Most people are living in their heads, disconnected from their body. This leads to anxiety, stress and burnout. In this episode we discuss simple ways to reduce some of the energy from your head - by playing with your attention. My links: Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/

Modern careers are full of change, uncertainty, and opportunity, rather than following a linear path. Helen Tupper of 'Squiggly Careers' fame outlines the five key skills needed to thrive in this new world of work, including understanding your values, leveraging your strengths, building confidence, networking effectively, and exploring diverse career possibilities. With the rise of AI and other technological disruptions, Helen emphasises the importance of embracing the uncertainty and developing the skillset to navigate a constantly evolving job market. My links: Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/

'Nobody has a handle on this thing called life. Life is a dance you learn to engage with on a day to day basis'. Shiv Sengupta is an author and teacher who I discovered over on Substack. He has a really fascinating perspective on life, spirituality, and the human experience. As a young man Shiv had a transformative experience he had that led him to question a lot of the common ideas around self-improvement and awakening. He shares his views on the role of chaos and calm in life, and why he believes embracing life as it is, rather than constantly striving to be better, is so important. We discuss: Shiv's unique perspective on the role of chaos and calm in life The limitations of self-improvement and the importance of self-acceptance Shiv's personal story of a transformative experience and its impact on his spiritual journey The relationship between meditation, suffering, and spiritual awakening Shiv's nuanced views on metaphysics and the nature of consciousness The definition of enlightenment as the ability to see with clarity in the present moment Insights on embracing the ups and downs of life without attachment to outcomes Shiv's substack: https://shivsengupta.substack.com/ My links: Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/

Matt Little, former coach to Sir Andy Murray, shares lessons about The Way of the Tortoise. He explores the power of patience, consistency, and staying true to your values. This bitesize episode is all about enjoying the journey rather than rushing to the finish line. My links: Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/

Improving how you breath is probably the best way to get more energy, sleep better and enjoy a calm and resilient nervous system. I'm talking to David Jackson, Oxygen advantage Master Trainer and Breathwork coach extraordinaire. We've split this conversation in 2 as there's quite a lot to take in, but it's powerful stuff. In part 2 we explore the: Powerful connection between breathing and the vagus nerve Techniques like humming to stimulate the vagus nerve and promote relaxation Critical role of the diaphragm in breathing Importance of carbon dioxide in optimizing breathing and overall health Practical ways to improve carbon dioxide sensitivity and breathing efficiency Building on insights from Part 1 to provide a comprehensive understanding of conscious breathing Jacko's website: https://www.probreathwork.com/ My links: Book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Website: simonmundie.com Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/

Improving how you breath is probably the best way to get more energy, sleep better and enjoy a calm and resilient nervous system. I'm talking to David Jackson, Oxygen advantage Master Trainer and Breathwork coach extraordinaire. We've split this conversation in 2 as there's quite a lot to take in, but it's powerful stuff. In part 1 we explore the: Importance of breathing as a fundamental health pillar Overlooked signs of stress and anxiety in breathing patterns Misconceptions around breathing techniques Vital role of nasal breathing Science behind slow and low breathing How slow and low breathing can help manage stress and activate the parasympathetic nervous system Jacko's website: https://www.probreathwork.com/

“All of humanity's problems stem from man's inability to sit quietly in a room alone” - Blaise Pascal. Rates of burnout and overwhelm are soaring and yet the advice tends to be push harder and exercise more. For people struggling with burnout this can lead to illness and a crash. On the contrary, we need to embrace stillness and simply being. Doing nothing is not easy for most people, yet it is what our nervous system's are crying out for, and it is the path to developing true resilience.

How Richard McCann found peace after his mother's murder by Peter Sutcliffe. At just 5 years old, Richard's life was shattered when his mother was brutally murdered by the serial killer known as the Yorkshire Ripper. In the aftermath, Richard endured further hardship, including a difficult home life and personal struggles with drugs and incarceration. Yet, through it all, Richard managed not only to survive, but to ultimately find the courage to forgive his mother's killer, liberating himself in the process. Richard's journey of forgiveness was deeply influenced by the teachings of figures like Desmond Tutu, who emphasised the liberating power of forgiveness, even in the face of the most heinous acts. We discuss ·      Richard's story and journey of forgiveness ·      His insights on the importance of acceptance, forgiveness and resilience ·      The ripple effect of Richard's story and message, and how it has impacted countless lives ·      Richard's belief in spiritual interconnectedness and the role of synchronicity in his life Links: ·      Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardmccann ·      Learn more about Richard's work: https://richardmccann.co.uk/ The paperback edition of my book, Champion Thinking: Get Out of Your Own Way, Find Your Peak Performance, is now available. Published by Bloomsbury, the link is here: https://www.simonmundie.com/book 'This book captures the magic of being in flow . . . Highly recommend' RONNIE O'SULLIVAN 'Entertaining and enlightening' MATTHEW SYED

“Always think positively" sounds like good advice - on the surface. But is it really possible, or even desirable? In this episode, Dominic Thiem and I explore why chasing constant positivity isn't the answer. Novak Djokovic weighed in on this idea in a 2024 interview, explaining why he doesn't agree with the idea that we should always think positively. Novak's ability to acknowledge and allow challenging thoughts and feelings, and then recenter himself, is what makes him probably the 'mentally toughest player' in the history of the sport;. Dominic Thiem, the 2020 US Open champion, shares a similar perspective. I caught up with Dom just before his retirement last year, and his insights on this topic were particularly insightful. The full episode with Domi is here: https://pod.fo/e/276837 The paperback edition of my book, Champion Thinking: Get Out of Your Own Way, Find Your Peak Performance, is now available. Published by Bloomsbury, the link is here: https://www.simonmundie.com/book

Grand Slam winner Dominic Thiem is a strong proponent of the importance of mindful eating. Dominic shares his powerful perspective on how we interact with food, the role mindfulness plays in his life, and how anyone—athlete or not—can benefit from a more intentional approach to eating. Full episode: https://pod.fo/e/276837 Book Release I'm excited to announce the paperback edition of my book, Champion Thinking: Get Out of Your Own Way, Find Your Peak Performance, is now available. Published by Bloomsbury, the link is here: https://www.simonmundie.com/book

Merijn van de Laar had insomnia for years but is now an expert in getting a good night's rest. He has a brilliant book out about conquering sleep struggles called How to Sleep Like a Caveman: Ancient Wisdom for a Better Night's Rest. I used to have insomnia myself – and what I love about this book is that for problem sleepers it is a relaxing and reassuring read which is not the case for some of the biggest books in the sleep genre over recent years. So in this episode expect to learn: Why the common advice around sleep can actually make insomnia worse How to reframe wakefulness during the night The powerful technique of sleep restriction therapy and how it works The surprising origins of the "8 hours of sleep" myth Practical tips for regulating your sleep-wake cycle with light and exercise Book Release I'm excited to announce the paperback edition of my book, Champion Thinking: Get Out of Your Own Way, Find Your Peak Performance, is now available. Published by Bloomsbury, the link is here: https://www.simonmundie.com/book

In this bitesized episode, elite sports sleep coach Nick Littlehales reveals his groundbreaking approach to sleep and recovery. Nick has worked with a number of the biggest football clubs on the planet including Manchester united, Manchester City, Liverpool, Team Sky and medal winning Olympic and Paralympic athletes. Learn how to structure your day using 90-minute cycles and controlled recovery periods to optimise your performance, just like top athletes do. Featuring: Nick's method of dividing the day into 90-minute cycles The importance of a consistent wake time How to plan sleep cycles and adapt to unexpected events The concept of "controlled recovery periods" (CRPs) or strategic naps Aligning sleep patterns with natural circadian rhythms Book Release I'm excited to announce the paperback edition of my book, Champion Thinking: Get Out of Your Own Way, Find Your Peak Performance, is now available. Published by Bloomsbury, the link is here: https://www.simonmundie.com/book

I've got a cracking guest joining me today - Andrew Tracey, the fitness director at Men's Health magazine. But Andrew is no ordinary fitness expert. He's someone who has seamlessly integrated the physical and the spiritual, straddling the worlds of hardcore strength training and deep contemplative practice. In this conversation, we explore Andrew's unique journey to developing a lifelong, functional approach to fitness, and how he discovered the transformative power of meditation and self-inquiry. Andrew shares insights on cultivating motivation and discipline by aligning with your deepest values, rather than through suffering. He also reveals how his meditation practice has given him critical distance from the mind's stories, allowing compassion to effortlessly bubble up. Key topics covered: Developing a lifelong, functional fitness routine Balancing modern conveniences with physical health needs The role of discipline, motivation, and aligning with values in fitness Tracey's meditation and self-inquiry practice Daily meditation techniques and working with thoughts Benefits of meditation, including gaining critical distance from the mind Interconnectedness of physical and mental health Exploring the nature of consciousness and identity Simon's book and Banishing Burnout - Finding Flow FREE online course I'm excited to announce the paperback edition of my book, Champion Thinking: Get Out of Your Own Way, Find Your Peak Performance, is now available. Published by Bloomsbury, the link is here: https://www.simonmundie.com/book

It's a new year – and there's no better time to start a habit that could transform your mind and body. Most of us walk – but almost none of us walk enough. We're a sedentary species, and it's only gotten worse in recent years. But here's the truth: our bodies weren't built for all this sitting. Walking isn't just movement – it's a powerhouse for health. It supports our organs, aids digestion, slows brain aging, and sharpens creativity. Neuroscientist and bestselling author Shane O'Mara is here to explain why getting more steps in each day can transform your mind, mood, and body. From lowering stress to sparking fresh ideas, Shane's message is simple: walking works. So if you're looking for one small but powerful change to kick off the year, this episode will remind you why it's time to step up – literally. Book Release and Banishing Burnout - Finding Flow FREE online course I'm excited to announce the paperback edition of my book, Champion Thinking: Get Out of Your Own Way, Find Your Peak Performance, is now available. Published by Bloomsbury, the link is here: https://www.simonmundie.com/book

Beating yourself up because you scroll more than you want to? Stop it. Just understand that our willpower is not strong enough to continually resist the lure of the hyper addictive smartphone. So what to do? Embrace your design power. Make it harder to use your phone. Get a lock case. Consider buying a backup 'dumb phone'. I did this and turn my smartphone off in the evenings and weekends, and the people who need me can still get in touch. It has been SO liberating! This principle of understanding the limitations of our willpower and embracing our design power can be used to improve your life across the board - from what you eat to how you focus. Book publication and Banishing Burnout - Finding Flow FREE online course I'm excited to announce the paperback edition of my book, Champion Thinking: Get Out of Your Own Way, Find Your Peak Performance, is now available. Published by Bloomsbury, the link is here: https://www.simonmundie.com/book

How to Reconnect with Your Inner Wisdom and Find True Wellbeing. At this time of New Year resolutions, it's easy to fall into the trap of pushing harder and faster. But in a world already moving at breakneck speed, chronic stress, overwhelm, and burnout have become alarmingly common. This episode offers a vital alternative: the power of rest. My guest, Fiona Agombar, is a yoga therapist, rest activist, and author of Breathe, Rest, Recover. Having experienced severe burnout herself as a high-flying business owner, Fiona knows firsthand the life-changing impact of embracing rest without shame or guilt. She shares how rest not only helps us recover but also reconnects us with our inner wisdom and reveals what we truly want from life. We discuss the profound benefits of slowing down, tuning into the body, and practising self-compassion. Fiona also highlights practical ways to integrate rest into daily life, from conscious breathing and micro-breaks to managing "tech apnea"—the impact of constant screen use on breathing and stress levels. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking to break free from the relentless pace of modern life. Topics covered: The concept of rest activism and why reintroducing rest and convalescence into modern life is essential. Why people struggle to rest and the dangers of ignoring signs from our body. How interoception and tuning into inner wisdom can aid in overcoming stress and burnout. Fiona's personal journey of healing from chronic illness through yoga and self-inquiry. Practical strategies for rest and recovery, including conscious breathing and micro-breaks. The effects of news consumption and technology on our wellbeing and mental health. The importance of recognising the background aware presence that is always available. Links & Resources: Fiona Agar's website: https://www.fionaagombar.co.uk/ Fiona's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@fionaagombar3037/videos Fiona's Facebook group: Rest and Yoga for Fatigue Fiona's books: https://www.fionaagombar.co.uk/books Simon's book and Banishing Burnout - Finding Flow FREE online course I'm excited to announce the paperback edition of my book, Champion Thinking: Get Out of Your Own Way, Find Your Peak Performance, is now available. Published by Bloomsbury, the link is here: https://www.simonmundie.com/book

Smartphones and social media are making us more anxious, distracted, and disconnected. In this episode, I revisit my conversation with Cal Newport, author of Deep Work and Digital Minimalism. Cal explores how our increasing reliance on smartphones and social media is eroding our ability to focus, perform deep work, and even be alone with our thoughts. He explains how the iGen generation (born 1995–2012) has been particularly affected, with alarming rates of mental health issues linked to the constant presence of digital distractions. For the first time in human history, we can avoid solitude entirely—yet this avoidance comes at a huge cost. As I reflect on these themes, I also want to share my FREE online course on beating burnout and finding flow. The tools and strategies I teach have transformed my life and are designed to help you reduce overwhelm, improve focus, and find flow, peace and creativity:

After watching the Channel 4 documentary Swiped: The School That Banned Smartphones and noticing the profound impact of using a dumbphone, I'm revisiting one of my most powerful conversations—my interview with Johann Hari, author of Stolen Focus: Why You Can't Pay Attention. Johann reveals the deeper reasons so many of us struggle with focus and attention, explaining why this isn't a personal failing but the result of broader societal forces. From our relationship with digital devices to surveillance capitalism and the loss of childhood freedom, Johann's insights are eye-opening and essential for anyone seeking to reclaim their focus. I've also created a FREE online course to help you beat burnout and find flow, drawing on research and techniques that have profoundly impacted my own life. Available for a limited time - link below.

The cost of constant distractions and how to get your focus back. In this episode, we explore the huge cognitive cost of constantly checking your phone and how it impacts your ability to focus and perform at your best. My guest is Johann Hari, author of Stolen Focus, who sheds light on the “switch cost effect” – the mental toll of constantly switching between tasks. Johann explains how multitasking lowers your IQ in the short term, even more so than smoking weed, and offers simple steps to rediscover the joy of focus. One of these steps is pre-commitment, a strategy that involves binding your future self to stay on task. We also discuss how focus is the gateway to achieving flow, the state in which we feel and perform at our peak. In a world that's increasingly demanding our attention, it's more important than ever to find ways to reset, refocus, and get back into flow. To help with this, I've created a free mini-course to help you beat burnout and improve your focus. In just a few minutes a day, I share proven techniques to help you reset and find that much-needed flow. This course is available for a limited time, and I would love for you to join me and let me know what you think. JOIN HERE: https://www.simonmundie.com/free-burnout-mini-course My book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book Website: simonmundie.com YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Substack: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we explore a thought-provoking question: Is self-improvement really the path to happiness, or is it a trap that keeps us chasing something we already have? My guest is Joan Tollifson, an author, teacher, and lifelong explorer of the nature of being. Together, we discuss why the idea of “improving yourself” is inherently flawed, how meditation helps us access peace and creativity, and the value of simply taking some moment to 'be' in our lives. We also touch on: What actually is the “self” we're trying to improve? Recognising the aware presence that doesn't need improving Meditation and its many different forms - and how we both 'do it' The power of taking moments of stillness to just 'be' The opportunity that being triggered presents us with Finding peace and ease by dropping the stories we tell ourselves My free mini-course on Beating Burnout and Finding Flow: https://www.simonmundie.com/beat-burnout-mini-course Joan's website: https://www.joantollifson.com/ Joan's Substack: https://joantollifson.substack.com/ My book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book Website: simonmundie.com YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Substack: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/ Joan's books include Bare-Bones Meditation: Waking Up from the Story of My Life (1996); Awake in the Heartland: The Ecstasy of What Is (2003); Painting the Sidewalk with Water: Talks and Dialogs about Nonduality (2010); Nothing to Grasp (2012); and Death: The End of Self-Improvement (2019). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we dive deep into the topic of imposter syndrome, a feeling many of us have faced at some point. While it's often seen as something negative, what if imposter syndrome is just a normal part of the human experience? I'm joined by Dr. Russ Harris, the author of The Happiness Trap and The Confidence Gap, as well as an expert in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT). Dr. Harris offers a refreshing perspective on imposter syndrome and shares research-backed strategies to help us navigate these feelings with more confidence and self-compassion. My free mini-course on Beating Burnout and Finding Flow: https://www.simonmundie.com/beat-burnout-mini-course My book: https://www.simonmundie.com/book Website: simonmundie.com YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Substack: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rejection is something we all experience, and for many the experience can be brutal. But even when we go to a social event, part of the reason we tend to stick to the people we know is to avoid the pain of feeling rejected, however slightly. So this is a universal issue. In this episode, I sit down with author, therapist and non-dual teacher Nic Higham to unpack one of the most challenging human experiences. Whether it's the sting of a passing comment or the deeper wounds that stick with us, rejection has a way of leaving its mark on our sense of belonging. Nic and I explore how these moments can shape the stories we tell ourselves – often ones of unworthiness – and why, instead of resisting rejection, we are better off embracing it. Nic introduces the concept of radical inclusivity, where rejection is welcomed as part of life's natural ebb and flow. Using metaphors like the ocean, he shares how facing rejection with compassion can lead to a stronger sense of wholeness. We also dive into the role of the inner child and how unmet needs can leave us chasing external validation rather than recognising the acceptance we already have within us. Nic offers practical tools, including strategies from Dialectical Behavioural Therapy and exposure therapy, to help navigate rejection without being overwhelmed. My book Champion Thinking: How To Find Success Without Losing Yourself draws on some of my favourite interviews over the last six years. In it, I seek to challenge our ideas about 'success', and where peace, joy and fulfilment are truly to be found. 'This book captures the magic of being in flow . . . Highly recommend' RONNIE O'SULLIVAN 'Entertaining and enlightening' MATTHEW SYED 'This book will challenge your thinking on what success truly is and will give you tools to "succeed" in life in the truest sense of the world. This is definitely not just another book about sport and those who happen to be good at it' -- GOLDIE SAYERS 'The intention behind this book is beautiful, and I highly recommend it' RUPERT SPIRA 'The best guide we have to what it means to be human' AMOL RAJAN Order here: https://www.simonmundie.com/book Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Champion-Thinking-Success-Without-Yourself/dp/1526626497/ Website: simonmundie.com YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/ Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it truly means to be content in your own skin? It's tempting to put so-called "successful" people on a pedestal, but the reality is often much more complicated. Many high achievers are driven by inner turmoil. Adrian Chiles, broadcaster and former host of The One Show, shares insights from his conversations with high performers on BBC Radio 5 Live, many of whom have also appeared on this podcast - from Jonny Wilkinson to Ronnie O'Sullivan. We explore why chasing traditional success often falls short of delivering happiness and why the state of flow - the state of full immersion in the present - is a key to genuine satisfaction, as well as high performance. My book Champion Thinking: How To Find Success Without Losing Yourself draws on some of my favourite interviews over the last six years. In it, I seek to challenge our ideas about 'success', and where peace, joy and fulfilment are truly to be found. 'This book captures the magic of being in flow . . . Highly recommend' RONNIE O'SULLIVAN 'Entertaining and enlightening' MATTHEW SYED 'This book will challenge your thinking on what success truly is and will give you tools to "succeed" in life in the truest sense of the world. This is definitely not just another book about sport and those who happen to be good at it' -- GOLDIE SAYERS 'The intention behind this book is beautiful, and I highly recommend it' RUPERT SPIRA 'The best guide we have to what it means to be human' AMOL RAJAN Order here: https://www.simonmundie.com/book Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Champion-Thinking-Success-Without-Yourself/dp/1526626497/ Website: simonmundie.com YouTube: https://tinyurl.com/YouTubeSimonMundie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/simonmundie/ Substack Newsletter: https://simonmundie.substack.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices