Mind Matters with Rex Urwin and Catherine Connolly Podcast

Listen to these two incredible mentors;  Rex Urwin and Blake Comerford, who have both overcome adversity, who have been brave enough to share and open up around their own life experiences so others can begin a journey of living life to their full human potential.  Experience and listen to our newest podcast today and let yourself thrive.    Episode Highlights Understanding your past and letting go of limiting beliefs; knowing that you are not your  or your parents past will allow you to live a life to your full potential  Understanding how important resilience is not only to survive but thrive You can overcome childhood trauma and other challenges with the right support, tools, mentors, mindset and strategies in place With healing and trust comes compassion and understanding for yourself and others  How important it is to reconnect and create a healing energy for yourself and others around you Rewiring your brain for success is the first step towards transitioning your life to its full potential To download your Inner Serenity Audio click this link https://youtu.be/VI1V_kj3Bd0 To connect with Blake: Email: blake@totaldevprogram.com.au Blakes Video: http://vimeo.com/536165117   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Understanding Your Enneagram Have you ever considered what makes people ‘tick’? Have you struggled with communication challenges because the person you’re trying to talk to can’t seem to understand your unique point of view or perspective? Welcome to the world of Enneagrams. In this podcast episode we have a chat with Michael White, a Sunshine Coast counsellor and Youth Worker about the tool of the Enneagram test, a theory which describes nine different personalities, and its value in self discovery. “15 years ago, I met a lady who introduced me to the Enneagram and it had such a profound effect in my own personal life that I knew one day I would share it with other people” - Michael White Michael was drawn into the Enneagram tool as it also includes a spiritual dynamic which not many people in the business realm were considering. It was previously a tool he was only using personally, to help develop a healthier relationship with himself and further discover and define his sense of purpose. Understanding its power and potential in the journey of personal evolution, Michael is now starting to share this tool with many others.  To read more about each of the 9 'types' click this link: bit.ly/3g1MB7e   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Structure Of Beliefs And The World They Cause Each Of Us: Part 2 Following on from our last podcast on ‘The Structure Of Beliefs And The World They Cause Each Of Us’, in this episode Rex Urwin and Catherine Connolly further develop the conversation to examine how, by combining your skills in imagining the life you truly want to live, with allowing your brilliant mind to create the neurology or the ‘inner road map’ to get you there, you can literally achieve or ‘think into being’ the quality of life and experiences of your dreams. However, while thinking and dreaming about your ideal life may sound easy, there’s a real difference between wishing and creating such a high level of desire that positive action and outcomes are inevitable. As Rex highlights,  “We need to create the inner imagery, the inner beliefs, the map. If we relate to creating the infrastructure, what we're really talking about in Mind Matters language is, we’re creating the neural pathways - which are a map. Once you start to hone in and think about, talk about, interact with and envisage something coming true, or creating something, you start to stimulate the neurology to do it. “ Rex also shares that “to get to the outcome, to be successful you need to form the map internally. So if you think of it in terms of getting from A to B and looking at the map and say, ‘Well, let's go from here to there. How long is it going to take? And where is it?’ And just relate to the neural pathways as a map.  You must consider that there are previous maps that are already in action within a person. So. Unless those maps are connected to getting into the territory that we're talking about to create a new desired outcome, then you're going to walk an old map unconsciously that actually doesn't have a destination like that outcome on it.  And you start doing behaviours and creating action, but it's the wrong action.” This podcast is loaded with gems of wisdom that we know you’ll love. And to learn more about Success Excelerator, CLICK HERE: https://bit.ly/3j18TX9 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Structure Of Beliefs And The World They Cause Each Of Us Have you noticed that experiences from the past seem to recur time and time again? Is it simply a case of ‘Groundhog Day’ or could you potentially be re-creating those experiences because of long held beliefs which may or may not be true? If this sounds all too familiar, then this podcast is for you.   In this broadcast Rex Urwin and Catherine Connolly speak openly about the way our beliefs can either help or hinder the creation of our life experiences and quality of the life we live. Are you living to your fullest potential? Have you hit your ‘glass ceiling’?  Are you ready to consider and transform your way of thinking and being in the world? If these topics and this podcast resonates, read more about the content over on our website and consider embarking on your own transformation. INTRODUCING SUCCESS EXCELERATOR Success Excelerator is the perfect tool to help you literally rewire your brain and hardwire you for success with simple daily practice and brain training, enabling you to perform at your highest level, daily! This unique, multimedia online learning program is designed to assist you in creating new habits of thought, feelings and actions, which leads you to profound transformation and the ability to realise and achieve your greatest potential!  Find out more by heading to the page on our site: https://www.mindmatters.me/success-excelerator/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you struggled with conflict within your business, professional situations or with clients? Perhaps you’ve found yourself speaking or acting from an emotional standpoint rather than an objective and empowered place of conscious communication? Meet Nadja Alexander: a multi-award winning author and educator, a mediator and an independent adviser to international bodies and national governments in Europe, Asia, Australia and Africa.  She has been engaged in dispute resolution settings in more than 30 countries and joins podcast host Catherine Connolly to discuss the importance of good mediation: both professionally and personally.  Listen in as Catherine discuss in depth the importance of mediation and the key tools you need to consider when embarking on the mediation process. LOOKING FOR THE LINK FOR YOUR FREE BONUS DOWNLOADS? FREE BONUS AUDIO DOWNLOAD: STAYING CALM MEDITATION AUDIO TRACK Plus download Nadja’s ‘5 Tips For Listening When You Least Feel Like It’ pocket card. To do that, click this link: https://bit.ly/2COA7AA See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever met people that you’ve either instantly clicked with or perhaps experienced instant feelings of discord? Have you perhaps wondered what makes your partner, kids or colleagues ‘tick’ and why they seem to see the world from a completely different perspective? While you may have previously dived into your own personality type, do you know your AusIdentity? And the AusIdentity of those around you? In this podcast hosted by Catherine Connolly, Catherine speaks with trainer, motivational speaker and the creator of AusIDentities, Michael White, who is shining a light on the importance of understanding your ‘Home Base’. AusIdentities is an Australian based profiling tool designed to help you understand your different values and core needs, laying the foundation for more harmonious relationships and enabling you to make better informed choices for your future. To gain access to your FREE AusIdentities report PLUS a bonus meditation audio track, click this link to head to the download page: https://bit.ly/38Owy98   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Life Is An Ongoing Learning with Ross Barnes Life, like Rugby, is an incredible game of skill. It’s important to train, to ensure you’re match ready, to be open and aware of your surroundings and look for those opportunities to make your next greatest move.  However what happens in the face of challenging life experiences where the ball is no longer in your possession? What are the skills required to turn the game around and not just score a try, but get the conversion and win the game?  In this podcast hosted by Rex Urwin, Rex speaks with Ross Barnes - Managing Director of Asme Projects. Rex and Ross, both proud Kiwi’s in Australia, former rugby players and avid fans share their love of the game and utilise the symbolism of Rugby as a metaphor for some of life's most important lessons. At the end of the podcast, make sure you download the bonus meditation audio: Being Open To Possibilities. This track has been created using skilful languaging tools to engage the whole of your brain. It is designed to enable you to let go of your ‘thinking mind’, allowing vital information to be absorbed into your subconscious mind and activate your own personal evolution.  Click the link below to head there. Link here: https://www.mindmatters.me/life-is-an-ongoing-learning/ See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Have you ever considered the possibility of taking the leap from Employee to Entrepreneur?  Are you a business owner who is looking towards greater entrepreneurial leadership? In light of the current global situation, many people are facing redundancy or looking at the potential need of pivoting into a stronger leadership role as a business owner or entrepreneur and are now faced with different challenges: how do you transition mindsets?  Do we all need to upgrade our identity mindset for greater flexibility and resilience in a changing environment?  In this podcast hosted by Catherine Connolly, Catherine interviews lawyer, author, entrepreneur and business leader Jeremy Streten, who has made great strides in the business community to bring law and it’s key elements into practical business application so that everyone can understand and better prepare for. Jeremy openly discusses the challenges of pivoting from being an employee into the mindset of an entrepreneur, as well as the potential for success. PLUS: click the link below to head to our blog page where you can download our FREE PDF tips and takeaways sheet from the podcast AND you'll be sent a link to a FREE chapter of Jeremy's book 'The Business Legal Lifecycle' called 'It's Lonely at the Top – Dealing with Crisis'. Link here: https://bit.ly/37wBNdb  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With the effects of the Global Pandemic becoming very present in our lives, many businesses have been forced to transition their model into a work from home option. While, for many, this can sound like a dream come true, working from home adds it's own stresses and complexities into our already busy lives! In this podcast Catherine Connolly chats with Internet TV host, TV presenter and serial entrepreneur Monique Bradley around the concepts of considering how to disconnect from 'work mode' and transition into 'home mode' with a few simple habits worth trying. "Now it's vitally important to get the balance right, to maximise how our brain can more effectively work. Sometimes people may spend hours, upon hours, upon hours working with no break and yes, they're busy, but the level of productivity is probably far less effective and efficient as if they did it in that increments where your brain's more 'on'. Repetition of new habits creates better results." PLUS: head to our website and gain access to our 2 bonus powerful NeuroCoding audios.  Track 1: Disconnecting From Your Day: A live recorded visualisation on how to consciously release the day Track 2: Inner Smile: A gentle reprogramming track designed to calm your nervous system and leave you smiling again! To gain access to those tracks click here: https://bit.ly/3domyFi See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you currently living the life of your dreams? Take a look around you. Ponder on this question.  What if we told you that yes: the reality you see around you, is literally the life you've dreamt of, up till now....... Do you like what you see? Or is it time for a change? In this podcast Rex Urwin discusses the realm of possibility and explores the concept that 'everything is created from imagination'.  Listen to this podcast to find out  more. And for your FREE DOWNLOAD, click this link: https://bit.ly/2LlT8Lq See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to the Mind Matters Podcast. In this podcast Rex Urwin and Catherine Connolly discuss what they call ‘State Management’ or ‘Emotional Management’ - something they work closely on with their clients online and in real life. In the blink of an eye, life has changed for everyone and with the current situation with the Covid-19 virus and the constant media attention, people around the world are starting to become more and more fearful.  While it's vitally important to be informed about the measures that have been put in place to protect you and your community, to slow down the spread of the virus, this constant barrage of media, feelings of fear and panic only assists in raising our adrenal and cortisol levels, compromising our immune system, and leaving us in a constantly anxious state. So what steps can you take immediately to help yourself through this time of crisis? Listen to this podcast to find out  more. And for your FREE DOWNLOAD, click this link: https://bit.ly/2UAdMMg   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Well-being guru Kym Power shares her passion and dedication to her craft with Catherine Connolly in this compelling new Mind Matters interview. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Autism spectrum affects many people, and one of them is BJ Connolly. He is a rising young comedian who has a unique perspective into his condition. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The Four Foundations are essentials to our humanity that are directly connected to how the universe at large works. With these foundations, we at MInd Matters are able to come up with things like an amazingly powerful  program in a retreat like Design Your Destiny 2019. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Carmen Taylor, a young widow, provides a great example of surviving loss and going on with life through peace, understanding and spiritual strength.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Battling, Surviving and Celebrating Survival from Breast Cancer October is the Pink Month for Australia, the time to discuss and learn about breast cancer. It is also a time when women celebrate their successes against the disease, when survivors band together in common cause with those still fighting their battles.    In this October podcast, we were lucky enough to have interviewed Naomi Smith -- banking and finance expert, executive coach and breast cancer survivor. Naomi is or was one of 53 women in Australia diagnosed with cancer every day. She knows the difficulties and challenges, the many choices available and how a choice-empowered personal journey of healing can make a difference.  Episode Highlights Preliminary discussion, mention of October as pink ribbon month for Australian women fighting or who have survived breast cancer. Naomi's background story, the shock of discovering she had cancer. Discussion of stories and statistics of the disease that affects one in seven women in the country. Discussion turns to Naomi's personal plight. How she challenged herself to achieve 95% healing. Naomi also relates how she found firm ground on which to battle the cancer with Mindset Mastery skills. "A massive outpouring of love" occurs and how she found this when she became present and grateful for people in her life. Further discussion of chemotherapy and details about her personal life during the total of 12 months of her treatment. Lessons, choices and how these choices can empower you to heal by focusing your energy on these. Naomi and Catherine discuss reactions within the close circle of family and broader circle of friends and community in relation to breast cancer. Vignettes or the little stories that stood out as touchstones for Naomi during the ordeal. About supporting your choice to find support, love and empowerment.  Discussion of gratitude through all her travails, the changes that have occurred to her life as a breast cancer survivor. Reviewing a conclusive detail about true understanding of having a choice, what power and energy it gives.  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the models that we use in our work is what we call The Ten Dimensions of Wealth, and one of those dimensions is contribution.  We’re both long time advocates for the environment and sustainability, and proud Sunshine Coast residents, so we especially look up to those who go the extra mile to protect the environment as their form of contribution. One such person is Lyn Saxton, who has lived in the area for more than 40 years. She’s been a legal secretary and law clerk for most of that time, as well as serving as a Justice of the Peace and Commissioner for Declarations. She’s suffered many setbacks in her life. She broke her back in the USA resulting in a spinal injury and months of therapy to recover, several miscarriages, including the loss of twins, and a brain haemorrhage while hiking which led to her being airlifted by the Royal Flying Doctor Service. Despite her health challenges, Lyn has become a fierce protector of the Sunshine Coast. I spoke to her on the Mind Matters Podcast. Episode Highlights:  Why Lyn decided to get involved in development watch The major concerns in the Coolum and Yaroomba area  Why the loggerhead turtles are endangered Fundraising efforts for the current court case  Why locals and tourists are banding together so that the Sunshine Coast will not be developed like the Gold Coast The solidarity of the general public  The congestion issues in Coolum  How the volunteers are trying their best to help their endangered loggerhead turtles  How you can help  Why it’s a David vs. Goliath fight  Why financial support is the best way you can help support the current court case Why Lyn’s dedication to the community is so important to her Developers need to be held to account What are the ripple effects of your decisions in business Useful Links:  www.developmentwatch.org.au  Mind Matters Links:  Mind Matters Website Catherine Connolly on LinkedIn Rex Urwin on LinkedIn Mind Matters Twitter  Mind Matters Facebook info@mindmatters.me See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode of the Mind Matters Podcast is something a little different. We’re looking at the courage it takes to realise and follow your purpose in life. Rex is chatting to Emmanuela Shinta, a 26-year-old Dayak woman from Kalimantan, Borneo, about her role in this world and the power of taking action, even when you don’t know what you’re doing.  Emmanuela is an activist, film producer and director, founder of the Ranu Welum Foundation and a leader for young people.  She’s gained notice over the years, speaking before the United Nations and a number of other international platforms about the deforestation of the Bornean rainforest and the overall destruction of her beloved country and her Dayak culture. She has trained more than 100 young indigenous people to use a camera to share their cause, and continues to raise awareness of the Dayak people and Kalimantan through the use of short videos and documentaries.  Episode highlights:  Who Emmanuela Shinta is and what her vision is - being born in Kalimantan as a Dayak woman was “no accident” Why Emmanuela feels like she wasted the first 17 years of her life - not knowing what her purpose was The turning point for Emmanuela when she realised her purpose  She did not see the vision for what she wants to happen until she experienced the pain of the destruction of her country Why Emmanuela thinks the transformation of Kalimantan is possible  The power of vision and the vision for Borneo The voice of indigenous communities and avoiding conflict Being invited to speak before the UN - talking about issues and solutions What Emmanuela thinks every small to medium business owner needs to pay attention to The problem comes when we separate ourselves from each other As a business owner, you have a responsibility Working together to make the world a better place Useful Links:  Emmanuela Shinta on LinkedIn Emmanuela Shinta Website Emmanuela Shinta Instagram Emmanuela Shinta Twitter Emmanuela Shinta YouTube Mind Matters Link:  Mind Matters Website Catherine Connolly on LinkedIn Rex Urwin on LinkedIn Mind Matters Twitter  Mind Matters Facebook info@mindmatters.me See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In a beautifully honest interview, Donna Thistlethwaite talks to Catherine about managing stress and mental health in the workplace.  After working as an HR professional for a corporate organisation for around 15 years, and with a small child, Donna found herself leading a small team for a new controversial project.  After a series of challenges, Donna’s mental health suffered to the point where she tried to take her own life.  Now, she’s an international mental health and resilience speaker and has presented for QSuper, Connexus Financial, Aurecon, Seqwater, Queensland University of Technology, Powerlink Queensland, and Western Downs Regional Council, among others.  She’s also a Career Coach and co-founder of Career Vitality, which provided career services to individuals, parents and organisations.   Episode highlights:  Who Donna is and a little about her background - started a new role whilst working as an HR professional for a corporate organisation The pivotal moment for Donna was when she had an argument with a colleague A few other events triggered self-doubt Dealing with Imposter Syndrome - losing sight of her strengths and feeling like a failure Questioning her whole identity and her previous strengths How Donna let her mind take over - playing out the worst case scenarios Feeling like the only way out was to take her life and choosing to do that What Donna has learned from ‘surviving’ Recognising the difference between how she used to be and how she is now Accepting that her failures in the workplace didn’t define who she was Reality test what’s going on in your head Donna’s advice to others who aren’t coping - reach out and talk to someone Setting up a business 18 months after her “mental health crisis” Donna’s 6 strategies for improving her mental health Donna’s journey as a Career Coach and a speaker sharing her experience Useful links:  Donna Thistlethwaite Website Donna Thistlethwaite on LinkedIn Career Vitality Website Donna on Facebook  Donna on Twitter Mind Matters Link:  Mind Matters Website Catherine Connolly on LinkedIn Rex Urwin on LinkedIn Mind Matters Twitter  Mind Matters Facebook info@mindmatters.me See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Rex chats to long-time friend and fellow Kiwi, David Metcalf, about the courage it takes to change your life - to move from the familiar into the unknown and into your dream life. David is a corporate manager-turned photographer and activist, who moved to Bali in 2012 after falling in love with Indonesia. His passion for activism means he’s heavily involved in working with indigenous people including the Dayak people, using the power of photographs to tell their story and encourage positive social change.  He also embarks on photography and activist tours to other lesser known areas including Java, Kalimantan, Sulawesi Nagaland (NE India), Odisha Tribal area in India and Vietnam.  Episode highlights:  Kiwi, grew up in Wellington till he was 19 then he went travelling Went to Indonesia in 2001 and fell in love with the country Based in Bali for 7 years now - living his dream Does photography tours and works with indigenous people and on projects that make an impact Actively involved with the Dayak people  Being successful in the corporate world but being unhappy How being made redundant gave David the life he’d always wanted Making a choice after he got made redundant and feeling the pressure to stick with the corporate world David’s negative voice telling him he will fail and realising that those thoughts will never go away so you have to accept that and learn to deal with them Connecting more with his intuition and letting the fear slip away What David would tell his younger self - have the courage and tenacity to just live your dream What is success?  The next stage for David - get involved in helping people who want to make the same transition I have. Cultural healing journeys  Where David gets his inspiration - the people he’s met along the way who are trying to preserve their culture and environment  The incredible experiences Rex and David have shared together What David thinks people need to understand about indigenous cultures and the environment Useful Links:  David Metcalf Photography Website David Metcalf on Instagram David Metcalf on Twitter David Metcalf Photography on Facebook Mind Matters Links:  Mind Matters Website Catherine Connolly on LinkedIn Rex Urwin on LinkedIn Mind Matters Twitter  Mind Matters Facebook info@mindmatters.me See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This episode comes to you from just outside Ubud in Bali, where I (Rex) am soaking up the Balinese culture.  I’m blessed to be able to spend time in Bali, as I have done for many years now. From my journey that I’ve travelled so far, I’ve also come to know the native Dayak people of Kalimantan, Borneo, and the people devoting their lives to supporting others and things they believe in.  One thing I’ve come to realise is that all these people have complete ownership and absolute commitment to the cause they believe in.  We’ll be exploring this in more detail with a series of interviews. But for now, we want to take a look at selflessness and the human spirit and the correlation with your business, career and families.  Episode highlights: You are a culture which needs preserving just like any other culture Your life is a culture based on principles and wisdoms  There will always be ups and downs that will test you and put your ‘culture’ under threat Recognising the parallels between the Dayak people and our clients’ lives Forging a journey through business isn’t always easy - take a minute to really think about what’s at stake Inside humanity there is a deep essence; there is a calling Your business is a mechanism for you to build deep sustainability and values and purpose and beliefs and vision You are forging your purpose with your business - it’s sacred so treat it as such The importance of collaborating with others The authority to think and the capacity to make choices is a gift Useful Links Staying On Top Of The Mountain Retreat Mind Matters Website Catherine Connolly on LinkedIn Rex Urwin on LinkedIn Mind Matters Twitter  Mind Matters Facebook info@mindmatters.me See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If you’re a leader or a business owner, chances are you spend your time running around trying to get everything done. Being busy is good, but it’s important to take time out for yourself. We often find that people don't give themselves enough time to stop. Being constantly busy can lead to stress and an inability to take the time your body and mind needs and your emotions need to take time out too. Fail to do that, and you won’t be thinking effectively and your business could suffer.  When you first get into business, or even just start a new career path, it’s easy to join the rat race. There will always be common stopping points along the way - like weekends or at the end of each day - but what about stopping altogether? We’re taking a look at what it really means to stop and just be still and the effects it can have on your role as a leader.  Episode highlights:  Is there such a thing as being too busy as a business owner?  Common ground - joining the rat race in business Reflecting on your career from the very beginning Giving yourself permission to step off the hamster wheel, relax and be present The struggle of gaining new perspectives on life and your business when under stress Taking regular downtime will encourage you to see new potential opportunities Operating under stress can cause you to be blind in business Great lives are designed - the importance of scheduling downtime in your business plan What do your next 12 months look like ideally?  Talking about designing your life more at our retreat, Design Your Destiny Do you have opportunities to take time out? When is business most intense?  Research findings - people who take time off strategically every year are better off financially than those who don’t, due to the rejuvenation of their energy and creativity The golden question to ask yourself: why did I set up my business?  Bringing balance and happiness to your life with the 10 dimensions of wealth True happiness comes from nurturing yourself Useful Links  Staying On Top Of The Mountain Retreat Mind Matters Website Catherine Connolly on LinkedIn Rex Urwin on LinkedIn Mind Matters Twitter  Mind Matters Facebook info@mindmatters.me See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As we prepare for our upcoming September retreat, Staying On Top Of The Mountain, we’re taking a look at what it means in relation to business.  The concept of ‘staying on top of the mountain’ is poignant in all areas of life, but especially when it comes to starting, maintaining and leading a small business.  Once you have your business up and running, you build on that and grow and establish a solid share in your chosen market. As with anything though, it needs to be maintained if you want to remain stable and successful. But what is actually at the top of the mountain? And how do we get there? Is it based on one achievement in life or in business? Or is it a series of continuous, never-ending achievements? Let’s take a look... Episode highlights: What does it mean to ‘stay on top of the mountain’ in business? How do you actually know when you’re at the top? How do you get there? The Japanese concept of ‘kaizen’ - activities that continuously improve everything that all employees undertake Maintaining a business by continuously improving  Making your business work for you - the downfall of wanting your business to serve you without your constant attention and presence Why a lot of business owners fail to make their business serve them The importance of having discussions and paying attention to the needs of your team Don’t overlook the finer details of your business Learn to refocus your attention - take time to pay attention to the wellbeing of your staff The importance of checking in with yourself - review your own performance in terms of mindset, beliefs and general wellbeing More information about our ‘Staying On Top Of The Mountain’ retreat Useful links: Mind Matters Website Catherine Connolly on LinkedIn Rex Urwin on LinkedIn Mind Matters Twitter  Mind Matters Facebook info@mindmatters.me See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Creating a business is basically like an endurance test. A lot of things need to be considered before you get going in order to make it work. It also takes a huge amount of effort, attention and energy to get something underway and your mindset plays a key part in its success or otherwise.  Sometimes we stay in the same mindset and activity that started the business when its way into a growth stage or even into longevity. No matter what stage you are at in your business, whether it's a startup or you've been in business for many years, it can be very useful to take note of your mindset and think about whether you’ve upgraded it or not over time.  In this episode, Catherine Connolly explores weathering the seasons of building a business.  Episode highlights:  The energy and effort needed to create a business - it’s like an endurance test Being stressed and frustrated is normal at the start of any business, but it shouldn’t last too long if you want to grow Are you suffocating your business?  Starting a business takes time, energy and effort Be sure to take time out for yourself to relax, reflect and nurture your relationships Knowing whether you’re ready to lead a team and grow your business Manage your business in line with the four seasons - it is part of the natural world that changes, grows and resets A common theme with Catherine’s clients - failing to recognise what they’ve already accomplished A leader can’t lead if they’re still engaged in the business like it’s a new startup The importance of taking time to think about new ideas - something that can’t be done in a state of stress Ask yourself what season your business is in  at the moment and who has the best expertise to take it to the next level.  Encourage your brain to think on a deeper level - change your neurological pattern Useful Links:  Mind Matters Website Catherine Connolly on LinkedIn Rex Urwin on LinkedIn Mind Matters Twitter  Mind Matters Facebook info@mindmatters.me See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Catherine chats to Juliette Wright, a long-term Mind Matters client and the founder and director of GIVIT, a not-for-profit with the aim of helping alleviate the effects of poverty across Australia. She shares her secrets to success and the challenges she’s had to overcome in order to get there. An experienced director and CEO, Juliette started the free online donation platform in 2009 with the hope of connecting those who have with those who need. The website has grown from just 15 charities onboard to more than 2,600 charities, government agencies and schools in just under 10 years. The website has seen more than 1.2 million items donated to people in need. GIVIT also provides an award-winning Disaster Recovery Service to help manage donation flow after disasters like the Brisbane and Bundaberg Floods, Tropical Cyclones Marcia, Ita and Debbie, and the Gladstone and Tasmanian fires. GIVIT is the only non-profit funded by the NSW Government’s Department of Primary Industry for drought recovery in New South Wales, because GIVIT buys locally in disaster and drought recovery, ensuring the right people, get the right things in the right way. Juliette has won numerous awards for disaster recovery, business and innovation, and was awarded Australia’s Local Hero in 2015. More recently, she was awarded the Order of Australia Medal. Episode highlights: Why Juliette started the company in 2009 - realised charities don’t need clothes donated Juliette’s realisation that simple things can pull people out of poverty Her first challenge - articulating what she was trying to achieve A bit of background on how Juliette went from nutritionist to CEO Why the procurement website failed twice and how Juliette got past it What she would do differently - get a legal company because regulations change a lot Choosing to ignore everything and deciding never to give up The driving force - wanting to help people by giving the impoverished what they actually need Hitting the 10 year anniversary of GIVIT and 1.25 million donations (donations have since reached 3,3000,000 million) Black Saturday fires - killed 173 people in Victoria and gave Juliette the idea for GIVIT disaster recovery Rolling out disaster recovery throughout Australia and the problems along the way Juliette’s biggest issues - she doesn’t fit the charity mould Assessing her core values - love, trust and connection Prioritising her values and realising what was right and not-so-right for her How Juliette manages her emotional state Remaining true to her values and expecting others to respect them Being honest and transparent so she can acknowledge her mistakes Ensuring her core values complement her husband’s Hitting a milestone with the Townsville floods - delivered over 220,000 donations in three months How Mind Matters helped Juliette - every problem is an opportunity Being in denial as a manager and not listening to the problem Embracing the richness of life Focusing on what her family needs and juggling a business The importance of planning downtimes - letting go of GIVIT when on holiday Useful Links Juliette Wright on LinkedIn GIVIT Website Useful Links: Mind Matters Website Catherine Connolly on LinkedIn Rex Urwin on LinkedIn Mind Matters Twitter  Mind Matters Facebook info@mindmatters.me See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the third instalment of a three-part series based on the stories we tell ourselves and how they affect the results we achieve in life. In the first of the series, we looked at recognising your own story, and in the second part we explored the process of dismantling it. Now, we’re looking at how to rewrite your story. Episode highlights: Your story can be written in any genre - comedy, thriller, drama Your first story in life is one that was written for you based on your childhood and background Learning to reframe your story from negative to positive - creating your own success story How Rex reframed his own story and what it has taught him Going through the motions of business - every hero has challenges to overcome ‘You can't teach a good sailor in a calm sea’ - a truly good sailor has been through all of the ocean’s moods and survived them Begin to mind map your future and what you want it to look like Think about the daily decisions and thoughts you need to get to where you want to be You are the author of your script - the more you take control the easier it will be to write your story to have the outcome you desire Useful Links: Mind Matters Website Catherine Connolly on LinkedIn Rex Urwin on LinkedIn Mind Matters Twitter  Mind Matters Facebook info@mindmatters.me See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Rex chats to friend and client Neil Macdonald owner of Fairway Financial, who has been running his own financial planning business for the past 23 years, specialising in people insurance.   He entered the industry somewhat by default, following in his father’s footsteps. His first role was with National Mutual (AXA) on a graduate program in 1990, which led him through a number of roles to become an adviser in 1997. Now, he spends his days helping veterinarians and SME business owners improve their financial wellbeing and explore their financial options. In the discussion Neil shares how important mindset has been in his work and the role Mind Matters has had in his development. Episode Highlights: Who Neil is and what he does - father, runs a financial planning business ‘Do the right thing because it’s the right thing to do’ - Neil’s mantra What makes Neil’s work right for him is that it’s right for his clients Key things Neil has learned over the years Owning his journey - comfortable in his skin and knowing his values What Neil is most proud of - growing from the low times and being open to new possibilities Managing state and emotion Looking inwardly for answers - it’s going to happen inwardly before it happens outwardly Time alone after divorce and learning about how manifestation works Neil’s time working with Rex and what he learnt What Neil’s future looks like - embracing the inner entrepreneur Injecting fun in the business - people stay because of the connection Making the complex simple Neil’s advice - align yourself with somebody who has the skills to ask you the right questions that will help you move along the path you choose Useful Links: Neil Macdonald on LinkedIn Fairway Financial Website Fairway Financial on Facebook Fairway Financial on Twitter Useful Links: Mind Matters Website Catherine Connolly on LinkedIn Rex Urwin on LinkedIn Mind Matters Twitter  Mind Matters Facebook info@mindmatters.me See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the second instalment of a three-part series based on the stories we tell ourselves and how they affect the results we achieve in life. As we explored in the first of the series, the human brain becomes habituated. It learns by engaging the nervous system, the memory system and the sensory system  and repetition of patterns over time makes something seem ‘normal’. So, to rewrite a story that's habituated, you need to first undo it in those places in a particular way. Essentially this means releasing it before replacing the old story with a new one. Episode Highlights: What is the story you’ve been telling yourself? Reflect on your current/old story to begin to release it to make way for a new one ‘Listen’ to your posture - are you slumped over (sad) or tense and rigid (anxious)? It’s common for business owners to find themselves in a state of anxiety on a regular basis Recognise whether you’re reactive at work and in your personal life Moving towards being proactive rather than reactive Are you trying to get away from the villain of your story? That could be money struggles or a business partnership gone wrong Writing your new story - think about the state in which you want to exist as a leader Change the way you approach your business and work from negative to positive Take notice of your not-so-useful behaviours and moods and write them down Ask your team for feedback How mentors can help you notice, understand and release unsupportive and unproductive behaviours and moods as a leader to make way for better ones Useful Links: Mind Matters Website Catherine Connolly on LinkedIn Rex Urwin on LinkedIn Mind Matters Twitter  Mind Matters Facebook info@mindmatters.me See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode, Catherine chats with Steve Mendl, a Mind Matters client for several years now. Steve has participated in a number of our NeuroCoding programs over the years. Apart from achieving great success in business and life, Steve has also reached a long-term goal to publish a book, which has since received Amazon Best Seller status. He is an executive mentor and active retirement coach, founder of Next-Aging and Senior Consultant at Lee Hecht Harrison Australia/New Zealand. He has over 25 years’ experience in training, educating, career transition, workforce transformation, and business improvement through effective leadership. Steve’s work life journey began in public relations, marketing and then one day he found his role was made redundant. He used the opportunity to really think about what he wanted to do and went on to start a fashion label, become a teacher and a radio and music DJ. He’s also the author of ‘Beyond The Money’, which looks at the mindset needed to transition from full-time work into the next stage of people’s lives. Episode highlights: Steve’s background story - a degree in business and his first job in public relations marketing Steve’s role being made redundant gave time to really think about what he wanted to do Building his own fashion label in the 90’s Going back to University to become a teacher in Australia and then moving to the UAE as a Business Economics teacher Returning from the UAE as a radio and music DJ Combining his two loves - learning development and teaching development and training and executive coaching Steve’s thoughts on having the right mindset in business How Steve created new direction If time and money wasn’t an issue, what would you do? Figuring out your likes and dislikes and creating your business around that - knowing where to spend your time and where to outsource work Steve’s biggest obstacles over the years - over-analysing and staying focused A look at Steve’s book, ‘Beyond The Money’  a practical guide for people moving out of full-time work and into the next stage in their lives, Successful men need to mentally prepare to leave the workforce and move into the next stage of their lives The tough times in Steve’s life that have shaped his learning and mindset in business How being present has worked both for and against Steve Steve’s opinion that ‘the clearer the vision, the more likely it is to happen’ Steve’s thoughts on Mind Matters and how we’ve helped him Useful Links:  Steve Mendl on LinkedIn Beyond The Money Website Useful Links: Mind Matters Website Catherine Connolly on LinkedIn Rex Urwin on LinkedIn Mind Matters Twitter  Mind Matters Facebook info@mindmatters.me See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is the first in a series of three about the stories that frame our sense of self and how we live our life. In this episode, we’re asking, is everything we say in the moment original? Or do we have a set of patterns that are established over time that form our way of operating, our way of speaking, and our way of believing? Do those potential patterns create the idea of us, the world that we step into every day and the results we get? Episode highlights: Telling your story - do you have a set of patterns that make you who you are? Realising the limitations you put on yourself The uniqueness of the brain and our ability to practice method acting What's the story you're telling yourself, and how does it support your success and enjoyment of life, or limit you? Common excuses from business owners - “The markets aren't right so that's why I'm not getting ahead.” Being open to new opportunities and possibilities Rewriting your story - take notice of what your story currently says about you Your story is made up of decisions and belief structures Pay attention to your story and its genre - is it a drama? Is it a comedy? When you understand your story you can consider what type of story you would write when your business and personal lives are getting the outcome you want.   Useful Links: Mind Matters Website Catherine Connolly on LinkedIn Rex Urwin on LinkedIn Mind Matters Twitter  Mind Matters Facebook info@mindmatters.me See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A hot topic with our clients right now is the concept of sabotaging your own goal. While ‘sabotage’ means to deliberately destroy, damage, or obstruct something, it’s not something we business owners do on purpose. But many of us do have self-sabotaging behaviours that, if not controlled, can prevent us from achieving our goals.   As well as stopping us from reaching our goals, self-sabotaging behaviour can make us less committed altogether. In this episode, Catherine is looking at common behaviours among business owners and how, with the right mindset and strategy in place, you can reach your goals.   Episode highlights: Self-sabotaging behaviours - a common example Money as a source of frustration for many business owners A look at the reasons for frustration in business when it comes to money - not having enough despite business being good Finding your financial identity - how expanding your belief of the possibilities can help you achieve your financial goals Each level of profitability begins with an upgrade in your beliefs and identity Blaming ourselves or others for not reaching our goals - sabotaging ourselves with negative thinking and terminology The importance of having the right mindset and strategy in place Learning from experience Finding your motivation - think about the effects that achieving your goal will have on your life as a whole Learning to redirect your attention when your environment changes Catherine’s experience of focusing her attention and taking notice of her negative inner thoughts How to move away from fear and panic - the power of deep breathing Why fear and anxiety sabotage your goals - you can’t think clearly and efficiently when you’re worrying Find yourself a role model - someone who has achieved the same or similar goal Look at the strategy someone else has used to achieve what you want Start each day by imagining your success Useful Links: Mind Matters Website Catherine Connolly on LinkedIn Rex Urwin on LinkedIn Mind Matters Twitter  Mind Matters Facebook info@mindmatters.me See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Being a successful business owner and leader doesn’t come easily - it takes hard work, dedication and the right mindset. In this episode, Rex takes a look at how you can create a mindset that will not only enable you to develop more skills but also to improve as a leader, enjoy business success, and create a balanced lifestyle. Episode Highlights: Misconceptions of the mind - we are not our thoughts and ideas The brain is not governed by the universe Many people tend to think negatively and give up when they don’t see the success they hoped for coming to fruition The brain can be trained - it is flexible and adaptable How can we train our brains? By choosing to practise new beliefs When we’re good at something we practise it, but it all starts with good, solid foundations Even when we become experts or masters at something, we still practise the basics If you have a solid foundation, you can begin to change your behaviour How to identify the behaviours needed to get the results you want Undoing bad behaviour, habituated thinking and beliefs Your thoughts are more practised than you might think - 90% of what we say isn’t a unique, original statement An example of how Rex has been learning to change his mindset to reach success in rope jumping Practise makes perfect - eventually it becomes muscle memory and natural Being open to change makes all the difference - let go of your judgement of yourself and your team Useful Links: Mind Matters Website Catherine Connolly on LinkedIn Rex Urwin on LinkedIn Mind Matters Twitter  Mind Matters Facebook info@mindmatters.me See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A common problem for small to medium business owners - ourselves included - is feeling frustrated. It’s far too easy to give in to negativity when things go wrong, leaving you feeling sad and hopeless. What’s worse is, because of the way our brain is wired, we create further frustration and daily problems. So how can we overcome it? By simulating experiences and learning to adapt. In this episode, we take a look at how the brain works when dealing with stress and what you can do to change your circumstances. Episode Highlights: Understanding how the brain works Being stuck in a business rut - feeling frustrated because you’re not getting where you want to go business-wise Change your thinking by listening, and change your thinking to listen Small to medium business owners typically use an old blueprint of their brain Using past habits, thoughts, feelings and experiences to train ourselves to think differently Reacting differently to obstacles in your business and daily frustrations Learning to see obstacles as a pathway to new solutions Keep your vision of business success in mind when you are next faced with a difficult time Instead of reacting the same way to obstacles, take a deep breath and accept what it happening before responding Don’t feed negativity and frustration - it’ll only make things worse How to create new neurological patterns Ask yourself the right questions - what is happening? What can I do to change it? What needs to be left till later? One of the qualities of a culture that survives is adaptability - be grateful for the ability to change Useful Links: Mind Matters Website Catherine Connolly on LinkedIn Rex Urwin on LinkedIn Mind Matters Twitter  Mind Matters Facebook info@mindmatters.me See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How can we change our way of thinking in order to change our world? Many people practise an affirmation - a statement or a declaration asserting that something is true. They use it as a way of trying to change their circumstances in life because it offers emotional support and encouragement, but for many, it doesn’t work. At least not by itself. In this episode, we take a deeper look at how an affirmation is received by the brain and whether it can actually help you shape your life for the better. Episode highlights: What is an affirmation? Why do affirmations not work by themselves? Aligning your conscious and unconscious mind Tidying up your history - forgetting the negative connotations around certain things based on past experiences Practising affirmative language Understanding the way you think Your personal history doesn’t need to be a part of your current world Writing a new history for yourself Alice in Wonderland quote Face the world with an ‘adult mind’ What skills Mind Matters can teach you Forming new habits is possible Useful Links: Mind Matters Website Catherine Connolly on LinkedIn Rex Urwin on LinkedIn Mind Matters Twitter  Mind Matters Facebook info@mindmatters.me See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

For entrepreneurs, executives and small to medium business owners, business and day-to-day life can often be a bit of an endurance race. It’s key to be able to reset and refocus quickly, however it’s not always easy for some. In this episode, Rex chats to British extreme sports lover Pete. His love of alpine skiing and climbing, and a background in the military, means he has learned some valuable life lessons that can serve you well in the unpredictable world of business. This interview was made possible through our connections with high level elite military operations personnel. Pete's last name has been withheld as he is still an active operative. Episode highlights: A bit on Pete’s background - joined the Royal Marines in 1994 and served 10 years in various countries including Afghanistan, Bosnia, Iraq, Northern Ireland and Sierra Leone Pete’s work as a military contractor for the past 15 years - Private Security Detail How Pete manages emotion and pressure Failure is a challenge in life - be happy being you Pete’s education in the remote highlands of Scotland where everything revolved around the outdoors Boarding school is not always privilege - Pete thinks it’s a miserable experience Always look for improvement, not the problem Practice makes permanent - always practice your skills if you can to improve Pete’s advice to business owners - have courage in your convictions Having courage isn’t easy Why Pete doesn’t like civilian life - it’s too mundane; not enough variety Where Pete gets his satisfaction from - he loves to serve and help people A story about Pete’s grandfather - a Spitfire pilot and time spent in a German war camp Being able to compartmentalise your life so you can put a strategy into place Life isn’t a perfect journey Useful Links: Mind Matters Website Catherine Connolly on LinkedIn Rex Urwin on LinkedIn Mind Matters Twitter  Mind Matters Facebook info@mindmatters.me See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

“We are our own worst enemies.” But what does that mean for a business owner? Doubting your abilities will never be conducive to success. As a small to medium business owner, a lot can come from learning to be still in the storm, as our guest in this episode found out. Tony Robertson is the founder of Brisbane Tank Manufacturing (BTM), a producer of stainless steel products for the dairy, brewery, pharmaceutical and food processing industries across Australia. His business story began when he started work as an apprentice technician and, after meeting the love of his life, strived for more. After completing an Advanced Diploma in Mechanical Engineering, he went into the administration side of things and learned more about drafting, engineering and procurement. In this episode, Tony shares his secrets for everyday business success, including learning to be mindful, listening to his emotions and learning from past mistakes to reach his goals. Episode highlights: What Tony’s company does - specialises in the manufacturing of stainless steel products for the dairy, brewery, pharmaceutical and food processing industries A bit about Tony’s background - started as a sheet metal worker building tanks Why Tony started his own business - wanted more What it means to be a business owner and what Tony found difficult at first - learning to manage people, manage cash flow and payroll How and why Tony came across Mind Matters - wanted to learn from his mistakes Mistakes are learnings Dealing with the ups and downs of being a small business owner Managing your emotions as a business owners - making sure your mindset is right Planning for today and tomorrow and not getting too comfortable as a business owner Tony’s goal setting - making mindfulness a goal Dealing with unexpected obstacles after returning from holiday in Europe What Tony would tell his younger self - listen to your emotions We are our own worst enemy What 2019 looks like for Tony and his business Tony Roberston on LinkedIn Brisbane Tanks Website To register for the Removing Obstacles To Your Happiness And Success Retreat call See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

While holidaying in Europe we had the opportunity to visit Sainte-Chapelle, a 13th century Gothic church in Paris near Notre Dame, one of many hundreds of stunning churches throughout Europe. Apart from its beauty, it also inspired me to think about ‘the work’ that went into it, and how the results and impact of that work still live on today. Many of us stop to marvel at the incredible architecture and artisanship of this era, and the time and effort that went in to design and create exquisite works like these. Works that leave people awestruck at the vision and the execution, even centuries after the last stone was laid. Imagine what your business could become if you ‘designed’ and built it with the same precision as these architects did centuries ago. Imagine if you took the time to create something of beauty, to create a business and a lifestyle of beauty. What if you took the time to slowly and elegantly create something with a beautiful structure and abundance that lasts forever, that lasts as a legacy. Churches like Sainte-Chapelle weren’t built in a hurry. They weren’t rushed. They were built to last. A life that is worth recording, that is worth journaling, is worth taking the time to build also. So give some consideration to the time you're taking to build something worth having. It's beyond money. It's beyond building abundance in terms of your own game in the short to medium term. In Europe we also noticed that it’s not just the churches that last a long time. Businesses do too. So many businesses are handed down from generation to generation. They have been built to last, with a legacy of collective knowledge and wisdom that’s passed on to each successive generation. These are businesses that last a long time because they take the time to play the long game. Are you building a business to last? Useful Links: Mind Matters Website Catherine Connolly on LinkedIn Rex Urwin on LinkedIn Mind Matters Twitter  Mind Matters Facebook info@mindmatters.me See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

It’s ironic that the brain is such an extraordinary mechanism and yet often it’s the brain, or more so the way we think with the brain, that holds many people back from reaching their potential. The brain often produces thoughts about itself that aren’t true, including the thought that it isn’t so smart or that it doesn’t have the capacity to change – “I am the way that I am and have to accept and adapt to the world the way it is.” Or it might make judgements that don’t serve us - "I'm not good enough," or "I lack confidence." Episode Highlights: The Variable IQ A burden in business A brain that has difficulty trusting others to get the job done can become insistent that, “I have to do it myself otherwise it won’t get done properly.” Be The Change You Want To See In Your World There is hope Useful Links:  Mind Matters Website  Catherine on LinkedIn  Rex on LinkedIn  Mind Matters Facebook  Mind Matters Twitter The Brain that Changes Itself by Norman Doidge M.D. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to the Mind Matters Podcast with Rex Urwin and Catherine Connolly, the show for business owners, executives, leaders and entrepreneurs committed to living life at their best. Listen in while we share how you can transform your life through focus, leadership and developing a high-performance mindset. In this, our first episode, we are introduced and interviewed by Brett Jarman, Founder and Executive Producer of Experts On Air, the producers of the Mind Matters Podcast. Brett quizzed us on ‘the story so far,’ how we got into the field of work we are in, why it’s important to us, and what we hope to contribute through the podcast. Enjoy :-) How Catherine’s childhood curiosity led her to be interested in matters of the mind Catherine’s learning journey and understanding the tools and techniques available to help us transform How Catherine’s frustration with surface level techniques inspired her to work with people at a deeper level The 25 year history of Mind Matters Rex’s hippy years Rex’s corporate years in marketing and finance and how his love affair with relationships led him to pursue other avenues Trading in his shoes for sneakers to study behavioural science at university Rex’s journey into matters of the mind and how matters of the mind became matters of the heart Why matters of the mind matter for everyone The role of the mind to serve us and how we underestimate its capabilities Why the comfort zone stops people from fully expressing themselves The difference between designing your life and taking things as they come Why Catherine and Rex mostly work with small to medium business owners and entrepreneurs Why a creative mind is critical for entrepreneurship The role of frustration and boredom in leading people to explore the mind Why different people get different results in business even with the same resources The role of beliefs and deeper patterns in the results we get in life The role of friends and family in determining our results The transition to unconscious competence and mastery What to look forward to in future episodes of The Mind Matters Podcast - Confidence, beliefs, the role of ‘cliches’ i limiting success, what flow and balance looks like, what sustainable relationships look like, taking creative control of your business, understanding how the brain works and how to harness the power of it, getting clarity of your vision, how to have fun and to make your business a playful space. Useful Links:  Mind Matters Website  Catherine on LinkedIn  Rex on LinkedIn  Mind Matters Facebook  Mind Matters Twitter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.