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On today's Thursday Thoughts, Lucy and I are talking about the power of intentionally tuning into nature during crazy times.Most of us would agree that the state of the world right now is…alot. It can feel overwhelming and scary, to say the least, and it's easy to feel completely out of control.One of the best ways to put things into perspective - not to mention regulate our overstimulated nervous systems - is to remember that we are a part of something much, much greater than ourselves.Sometimes a walk in nature is all we need to feel calmer; a cuddle with our cat can bring us back to joy; and noticing the beauty of the flowers or the birds can make us feel more grounded.So if you're feeling upset, scared, or horrified by what's happening in the world, one of the best things you can do is surround yourself with nature - whether that's a walk along the coast, or just popping into your local city park.We sincerely hope you'll find something helpful or interesting in here.Love,Polly & Lucy xDownload 15 Breaths to Calm Anxiety - a FREE 5 minute audio to calm you down in real time. Download The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
Many of us rely on pressure and guilt to keep ourselves moving forwards towards our goals — especially in midlife, when life can feel full and demanding. While these strategies may work in the short term, they often leave us feeling exhausted, anxious, and disconnected from ourselves.In this episode, I explore why guilt and pressure have become such familiar motivators, how they impact the nervous system, and what it really takes to move forward from a place of calm rather than self-attack. Drawing on my own experience and simple, science-backed tools, I share a kinder, more sustainable way to stay productive without burning out.In this episode, you'll learn:Why pressure and guilt feel motivating — and the hidden cost of relying on themHow the push–collapse–guilt cycle keeps you stuckSimple ways to interrupt reactive patterns How to upgrade unhelpful beliefs without forcing positivityHow to approach ambition from a place of calm and choiceDownload 15 Breaths to Calm Anxiety - a FREE 5 minute audio to calm you down in real time. Download The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
Welcome to a new episode of The Way Out Is In: The Zen Art of Living, a podcast series mirroring Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh's deep teachings of Buddhist philosophy: a simple yet profound methodology for dealing with our suffering, and for creating more happiness and joy in our lives. In this installment, Zen Buddhist monk Brother Phap Huu and leadership coach/journalist Jo Confino discuss the importance of creating inner space and stillness through meditation practices. But what does it actually mean to create more space in our lives? And why is this important, and how do we go about it? The conversation emphasises that the practice of meditation is not just about achieving enlightenment, but about becoming more present, compassionate, and engaged with the world. It touches upon the difficulties of finding space in modern life, the benefits of different meditation techniques, and misconceptions around enlightenment. The hosts also share personal experiences, including insights about how meditation has deepened their practice and allowed them to navigate challenges with greater flexibility and understanding. The episode ends with a meditation guided by Brother Phap Huu. Co-produced by the Plum Village App:https://plumvillage.app/ And Global Optimism:https://globaloptimism.com/ With support from the Thich Nhat Hanh Foundation:https://thichnhathanhfoundation.org/ List of resources Pilgrimage: In the Footsteps of the Buddhahttps://plumvillage.org/event/pilgrimage/in-the-footsteps-of-the-buddha-2 Being with Busyness: Zen Ways to Transform Overwhelm and Burnouthttps://www.parallax.org/product/being-with-busyness/ Calm in the Storm: Zen Ways to Cultivate Stability in an Anxious Worldhttps://www.parallax.org/product/calm-in-the-storm/ Course: Zen and The Art of Saving the Planethttps://plumvillage.org/courses/zen-and-the-art-of-saving-the-planet Interbeinghttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Interbeing Plum Village Traditionhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plum_Village_Tradition ‘Resources for Practicing the 16 Exercises of Mindful Breathing'https://plumvillage.app/resources-for-practicing-the-16-exercises-of-mindful-breathing/ ‘Making the App More Inclusive: Introducing the ‘Access to Practice' Folder'https://plumvillage.app/introducing-the-access-to-practice-folder/Robert Thurmanhttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_Thurman Mahayanahttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mahayana Bodhisattvashttps://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bodhisattva The Way Out Is In: ‘The Three Doors of Liberation (Episode #18)'https://plumvillage.org/podcast/the-three-doors-of-liberation-episode-18 Sister Chan Lang Nghiemhttps://plumvillage.org/people/dharma-teachers/sr-lang-nghiem Quotes “Walking meditation was our teacher’s favorite practice and it was really a life-changing cultivation for him. Because, particularly when we are very emotional – whether that be grief, agony, pain, anger, frustration – it is probably better to be in a state of motion.” “The Buddha has said, What are we mindful of? We are mindful of our suffering. Why do we practice? To liberate ourselves and all beings from suffering. That is the greatest vow of a monk or a nun: to find liberation in oneself and liberation in all.” “There are so many creations of senses – what we see, what we hear, what we smell, what we taste – to help us cope with our suffering. And when we are suffering, whether that suffering is very petite, a daily concern, or is a generational trauma, we don’t have language for how to be with that suffering. Therefore, we look for a way out – and the world loves giving us a prescription of, ‘If you do this, you will feel that.'” “Sometimes silence is a chance for us to be in touch with deep suffering or deep experiences that our noise has covered up. As a meditator, space gives us the barrier and boundaries to listen and to hold. If we don’t create that space, we will be on autopilot for the rest of our life. Our mind is on autopilot; it has a way of thinking, a way of doing, a way of perceiving, of creating perceptions, creating judgment. So when we meditate and have the opportunity to listen to and then to guide the mind, it gives the mind a chance to not also be carried away by its own habits – which is thinking.” “Thinking is not a bad thing. Like our teacher has always transmitted to us, thinking is a part of creating a view in life, a project, a mission, an intention. But most of our thinking is not productive. It is actually more daydreaming, it is more procrastination. It is more like a zombie, in a way, or a sleepwalker. It has no destination; it’s just on autopilot.” “Many people feel they have to sit on a cushion, they have to have a shrine, they have to light incense, they have to light a candle – which of course can be very beautiful and give a good atmosphere for meditation. But you can also do it on a busy bus or train, or as you’re sitting on a park bench. It’s not about taking things out of your life; it’s about allowing life to be.” “Sometimes we sit just to enjoy sitting and doing nothing, because maybe that's the one gift that we want to give to ourselves – because we’re always doing, we’re always in fifth gear. Sometimes we need a radical act: to sit and do nothing, to give and create and redefine space for ourselves.” “How can we keep mindfulness alive if we are not cultivating it? Sitting meditation is one of the concrete cultivation practices.” “There is right mindfulness and wrong mindfulness. We could be a wonderful burglar with full concentration – but we would be creating suffering. So right mindfulness relieves suffering; it is about understanding suffering and heading towards the path of understanding and love.” “One time our teacher told us that sometimes insight doesn’t come during sitting meditation, but when it’s ripe. Maybe when we’re most relaxed: when we’re not thinking about it, but are living the moment very deeply. And Thay told us that, a lot of the time, it would come while he was gardening or doing walking meditation. But sitting meditation is the cultivation; it is like a gardener tending the seeds of insights to help us have a moment of, ‘Ah, I get it.'” “The practice is maybe just continuing to unlearn things, in order to learn again.” “There is no way to peace. Peace is the way.” “Sitting is already action. When we sit in this way and have new insight, that will become the thread of so many actions coming forward. So don’t underestimate the power of sitting still; yes, we have apps and guided meditations, but also build the capacity of generating your own guide. And that breath is there, that body is there. Then the community is there – and that’s the beauty of a tradition.” “Whenever we speak about enlightenment, enlightenment of what? What do we want to be enlightened from or towards? Then, later on – like in my own growth – I see that enlightenment is a verb; it is a continuous enlighten-ing. You cannot be enlightened today, December the 9th, and expect that enlightenment to stay the same in 2028. Because things are changing; we are changing. The world is changing.”
On this weeks Thursday Thoughts, Lucy and I are talking about how our hardest times and biggest “failures” often become our greatest lessons.We talk about how difficult seasons can shape us, clarify what really matters, and guide us onto the right path.A reminder that nothing is wasted – and if you're in a tough chapter right now, sending you loads of love and hope this may be of a little help to you.Love Polly & Lucy xDownload The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
Do you love your birthday… or secretly dread it?Birthdays can bring up all sorts — joy, disappointment, reflection, pressure, even a sense of dread as we move through midlife. And yet, it's the one day every year that's meant to be about you.In this episode of Take a Breath, I'm joined by counsellor, personal development guide, and author Tamar Hurwitz-Fleming to explore why birthdays matter far more than we might realise — and how they can become a powerful opportunity for self-worth, reflection, and personal growth.Tamar is the author of How to Have a Happy Birthday, a book born from the realisation that many people carry disappointment, unmet expectations, or old emotional patterns into their birthdays year after year. She invites us to take back ownership of our birthdays — in ways that feel meaningful, nourishing, and true to who we are now.This conversation goes well beyond birthday parties. It's about permission, self-celebration, aging with confidence, and creating practical calm in the messy middle of midlife.In this episode, we explore:Why birthdays can be surprisingly emotional — and what your feelings about your birthday might reveal about your self-worthWhy taking responsibility for your birthday (rather than hoping others “get it right”) can be deeply empoweringHow to celebrate your birthday in ways that feel good to you — whether that's a big gathering, a quiet solo day, or something in betweenLetting go of societal expectations around aging, appearance, and what women “should” look like as they get olderUsing your birthday as a personal New Year — a moment to reflect on purpose, values, and the year aheadHow to honour difficult emotions on birthdays — including grief and loss — without letting them take overThis episode is about learning to pause, listen to yourself, and honour what you actually want and need — not just on one day a year, but every day.If birthdays have ever left you feeling flat, overlooked, or quietly disappointed, this conversation might just help you see them — and yourself — differently.Take a breath… and enjoy.To find out more go to: https://howtohaveahappybirthday.com/Download The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
On today's Monday Motivation, Lucy and I are talking about that ‘back to school' feeling that so many of us feel after Christmas and New Year.If you're feeling low following the festive season, now is the time to make finding joy a priority. Because like so many things in life, we have to get intentional about choosing it.Lucy and I also talk about being aware of our thoughts, how our inner world creates our outer world, and why being truly present in the moment is the key to living a joyful life.We hope you'll find something useful in here.Love,Polly & Lucy xDownload The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
Midlife can feel like a constant juggling act — from perimenopause to parenting, ageing parents to career demands, all while managing the invisible emotional and mental load that us midlife women know all to well.In this episode, I share 5 simple, science-backed ways to ease the emotional weight you're carrying — so you can feel calmer, more connected, and more like you again.✨ Here's what you'll learn:How starting your day with just a few intentional minutes can change the energy of your entire dayWhy gratitude isn't just about positive thinking — and how it actually supports your nervous systemA tiny language shift that can reduce stress and give you back a sense of agencyWhy building awareness is the most powerful skill for calming a chaotic mindHow to quickly shift your state (and stop overthinking) — especially in moments of overwhelmThis episode is packed with practical tools for busy midlife women carrying it all.
What would the typical living cell look like if enlarged to the size of New York City? Let's take an imaginary journey through the cell.As we approach the giant cell in our special ship, we would see breathtaking beauty, order and busyness within the cell. On the surface of the cell, we see millions of openings stretching as far as the eye can see. Each one independently opens and closes, allowing materials to enter or leave the cell.As we enter one of these vast portholes, we see an endless array of hallways leading in all directions. Some of these hallways lead to the cell's memory banks in the nucleus. There, all the activities we are about to see are not only regulated but also checked by very fussy quality controllers. Other halls lead to giant processing plants, while still others lead to assembly plants within the cell. If we move along a giant hallway to one of these assembly plants, we will see marvelous organization. Raw materials, like those we saw entering the cell, are sent here for assembly. Robot like structures—really proteins—are working on the assembly line while other proteins, called enzymes, are supervising their work.This view of the cell, provided by modern science, makes it even more difficult to believe that the cell, or any life, could have arisen from chance collisions of atoms. It is for this reason that several famous evolutionists have given up on the idea that chance and accident could have created life!Matthew 6:25"'Therefore I say to you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, what you will put on. Is life more that food and the body more than clothing?'"Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus; I marvel at how You, the Instrument Who created the living cell, became a living being yourself for my salvation. Though I cannot understand such love, help me never to take Your gift of salvation for granted. Amen.Image: Living cell structure, Canva. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1232/29?v=20251111
On today's Thursday Thoughts, Lucy and I are talking about maintaining a positive mental attitude even when life throws us a curveball.Last week, I injured my knee on the last day of my skiing trip, and am currently on crutches while I wait to find out how serious the injury is.I talk about how I'm feeling and how I've been trying to stay positive and expect the best possible outcome. Because as Lucy and I have discussed here before, two people can experience the exact same circumstances in two very different ways - depending on their thinking.We hope you'll find something useful in here!Love,Polly & Lucy xDownload The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
In this episode, I'm joined by the wonderful Margaret de Petro — a former psychotherapist whose work now spans coaching, NLP, intuition, and energy awareness. Margaret supports people around the world to feel more connected, clear, and confident in who they are and where they're heading, especially during times of transition. Her work sits at the intersection of science, spirituality, and deep self-awareness, making this a fascinating and very grounded conversation.Together, we explore what happens when you realise you've lost touch with yourself — that familiar midlife moment of questioning, “Is this it?” — and how intuition, energy, and presence can gently guide you back to clarity and purpose.In this episode, you'll learn:How intuition actually works and practical ways to start trusting and strengthening yoursWhat your energy field is, how it can be measured, and how it responds to thoughts, emotions, and environmentsSimple ways to protect your energetic boundaries without effort or overwhelmWhy the heart's electromagnetic energy plays such a powerful role in authenticity, truth, and connectionGentle, practical tools for navigating grief, emotional overwhelm, and everyday depletion in midlifeThis episode is an invitation to slow down, tune in, and remember that your inner wisdom hasn't gone anywhere — it's just been waiting for a little space.To connect with Margaret go to: https://margaretdepetro.vipmembervault.com/To listen to Margaret's podcast go to: https://margaretdepetro.vipmembervault.com/podcastDownload The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
Reading Bug Adventures - Original Stories with Music for Kids
A Reading Bug Adventure with Original Songs An Adventure Encore episode. Full Story - Parts 1 & 2 combined. Get ready for an unforgettable journey through the human body with Lauren, the Reading Bug, and the Spelling Bee! In this thrilling and educational adventure, our brave explorers shrink down to explore the amazing systems that keep our bodies alive and thriving. With help from astronaut Elara and a new friend named Hugo, listeners will dive deep into anatomy and learn about the five senses, the circulatory system, the brain, and more – all from the inside out! Perfect for curious kids, young scientists, and future doctors, this episode is packed with fun facts, silly puns, and interactive moments that inspire learning and imagination. It's a whole-body experience!
On this week's Monday Motivation, Lucy and I are getting intentional about 2026. Because any change you want to make starts with you, and now is the moment to begin living life by design, rather than by default.We chat about why clarity of direction matters, and how real change happens when you start becoming, and embodying, the future version of yourself now.We hope you find something useful in here.Love Polly & LucyDownload The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
On today's Thursday Thoughts, Lucy and I are talking about the power of intentionally tuning into nature during crazy times.Most of us would agree that the state of the world right now is…alot. It can feel overwhelming and scary, to say the least, and it's easy to feel completely out of control.One of the best ways to put things into perspective - not to mention regulate our overstimulated nervous systems - is to remember that we are a part of something much, much greater than ourselves.Sometimes a walk in nature is all we need to feel calmer; a cuddle with our cat can bring us back to joy; and noticing the beauty of the flowers or the birds can make us feel more grounded.So if you're feeling upset, scared, or horrified by what's happening in the world, one of the best things you can do is surround yourself with nature - whether that's a walk along the coast, or just popping into your local city park.We sincerely hope you'll find something helpful or interesting in here.Love,Polly & Lucy xDownload 15 Breaths to Calm Anxiety - a FREE 5 minute audio to calm you down in real time. Download The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
Reading Bug Adventures - Original Stories with Music for Kids
A Reading Bug Adventure with Original Songs An Adventure Encore episode. Part 2 of 2. Get ready for an unforgettable journey through the human body with Lauren, the Reading Bug, and the Spelling Bee! In this thrilling and educational adventure, our brave explorers shrink down to explore the amazing systems that keep our bodies alive and thriving. With help from astronaut Elara and a new friend named Hugo, listeners will dive deep into anatomy and learn about the five senses, the circulatory system, the brain, and more – all from the inside out! Perfect for curious kids, young scientists, and future doctors, this episode is packed with fun facts, silly puns, and interactive moments that inspire learning and imagination. It's a whole-body experience!
On today's Thursday Thoughts, Lucy and I are talking about one of my favourite topics…enthusiasm!Enthusiasm is one of the highest vibration emotions there is; and if we're not feeling enthusiastic about anything in our life, that's a sign that something needs to change.But just like joy and gratitude, enthusiasm is something that we have to choose, to prioritise, to cultivate. And the more we cultivate it, the more things we'll find to be enthusiastic about.We really hope you'll find something of value in this conversation.Love,Polly & Lucy xDownload The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
Let's talk about the patterns we know aren't helping… but keep falling back into anyway. People-pleasing. Perfectionism. Overfunctioning. Ever wondered why you keep doing the things you don't want to do?This week, I'm joined by the incredible Kati Morton — licensed therapist, bestselling author, and one of the very first mental health professionals to step onto YouTube.Together, we dive deep into:✨ Why we cling to control (and what's underneath it)✨ How childhood blueprints shape adult behaviour✨ The emotional red flags we often ignore✨ Managing anxiety, anger + emotional load at midlife✨ Why asking for help feels so hard — and how to shift it ✨ Breaking old patterns, gently and compassionatelyKati's latest book Why Do I Keep Doing This? is a must-read — and this episode is packed with wisdom that'll help you understand yourself more deeply.If you've been feeling overwhelmed, stretched thin, or stuck in old patterns…This one's for you
Reading Bug Adventures - Original Stories with Music for Kids
A Reading Bug Adventure with Original Songs An Adventure Encore episode. Part 1 of 2. Get ready for an unforgettable journey through the human body with Lauren, the Reading Bug, and the Spelling Bee! In this thrilling and educational adventure, our brave explorers shrink down to explore the amazing systems that keep our bodies alive and thriving. With help from astronaut Elara and a new friend named Hugo, listeners will dive deep into anatomy and learn about the five senses, the circulatory system, the brain, and more – all from the inside out! Perfect for curious kids, young scientists, and future doctors, this episode is packed with fun facts, silly puns, and interactive moments that inspire learning and imagination. It's a whole-body experience!
This week, Lucy and I are diving into Christmas — the bits that feel magical… and the bits that feel a little wobbly.Because for so many of us, this season can stir up old stories, tricky family dynamics, or that familiar mix of sadness and joy sitting right next to each other.We hope you find something useful in here.Wishing you a very happy Christmas
Deep House Explorations, vibes for the openminded massive.Recorded live at Dogglounge.comEnjoy the journey within.DJ Channing/Morpheus Tracklist # Artist name Track name 1 Iz & Diz Love Vibe – Pepe Bradockâ??s Confiote De Bits Remix 2 Milton Jackson The Rhythm Track … DJ Channing | Inner Space… .. . Deep House Explorations Read More » The post DJ Channing | Inner Space… .. . Deep House Explorations first appeared on Deep House Radio | Dogglounge Deep House Radio.
Today, Lucy and I are diving into some of our favourite non-fiction personal development books — the ones that have genuinely shifted how we think, feel, and show up in the world.If you're craving a change for the better, want to keep growing, and you're naturally curious, these books will give you a nudge in the right direction.Have you read any of our favourites?And tell us — what would you add to the list? We love discovering new ones.Love,Polly & Lucy xxDownload The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
As we move deeper into winter, it's easy to start feeling just a bit... off.Tired. Foggy. A little more emotional than usual. Maybe like you're running on empty — even when you're technically doing “all the right things.”If that's you, you're not alone — and this week's podcast episode is here to help.I'm joined by the brilliant Amanda Ryder, a registered nutritional therapist who specialises in women's health over 40 — and we're diving into one of the biggest keys to your energy, immunity, mood and overall resilience this season:
In this episode of Thursday Thoughts, Lucy and I are talking about releasing and letting go as we move towards 2026.We cover releasing through breathwork, letting go of the judgement of others, as well as how perfectionism can sometimes be procrastination in disguise.We hope you'll find something useful in here!Love,Polly & Lucy xDownload The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
In this episode of The Box of Oddities, Jethro and Kat dive deep into the mind-bending story of Michel Siffre, the French researcher who willingly descended into total darkness—twice—to learn what happens when humans are cut off from time itself. With no sunlight, no clocks, and no sense of day or night, Siffre's body drifted into bizarre 30- to 48-hour “days,” entire memories vanished, and even astronauts later admitted they'd felt the same disorienting effects in space. His experiments reshaped our understanding of circadian rhythms, aging, mental endurance, and the mysterious internal clocks that tick inside us all. Then, the show shifts from inner space to inner hauntings with the chilling tale of the Joy Hotel's haunted electric player piano in Pittsburg, Kansas. This wasn't your typical whispered-once urban legend—its eerie late-night melodies were documented in the 1930s by the WPA Folklore Project and confirmed by hotel employees who watched its keys move with no power and no player roll turning. Desk clerks, housekeepers, and even the handyman swore they saw it come alive…sometimes humming along…always cheerful at the worst possible moments. A piano that played only when it wanted to—and stopped the moment someone got too close. It's isolation, time distortion, ghostly ragtime, and the unsettling reminder that the world gets weirdest when nobody's watching. If you love psychological mysteries, paranormal folklore, and the beautifully bizarre, this one's a can't-miss. human circadian rhythm experiment, Michel Siffre cave study, internal clocks, time perception research, astronauts' sleep cycles, haunted player piano, Pittsburg, Kansas ghost stories, Joy Hotel haunting, WPA folklore ghost accounts, paranormal piano story, Box of Oddities episode This Box Contains The following Ingredients: human circadian rhythm experiment, Michel Siffre cave study, internal clocks, time perception research, astronauts' sleep cycles, haunted player piano, Pittsburg, Kansas ghost stories, Joy Hotel haunting, WPA folklore ghost accounts, paranormal piano story, Box of Oddities episode Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On this week's Monday Motivation, Lucy and I are talking about how it doesn't matter how much personal development work we do if we don't actually do the thing.You can learn and reflect endlessly, but real change only happens when insight becomes action.We dive into how growth takes time and consistent practice. It asks for patience, repetition and putting in the reps, even when progress feels slow or subtle.We also challenge the belief of “I don't have time”. Because often, it's not time we're lacking… it's prioritisation. And when something truly matters, we do find a way to make space for it.This episode is a reminder that only you can create the changes you're longing for — and yes, there's a little tough love in there, but only because we know action is what works.We hope there's something in here that supports you this week.Love,Polly & Lucy xDownload The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
This meditation is adapted from a meditation called "Open Focus." Let whatever comes spontaneously to your awareness to be there as you follow along with the questions, which begin with, "Can you imagine…?" (adapted from Open Focus Meditations led by Les Fehmi, Ph.D.) Our introduction music is from "Opening" by Adrienne Torf, © 2025 ABT Music
How do we actually age well? Not just living longer, but feeling strong, clear-headed and energised into our 50s, 60s, 70s and beyond…My guest is Dr Nathalie Beauchamp (Dr Nat). She's been a practising chiropractor for almost 30 years, she's certified in functional medicine, and she's written six books. She's a master at taking all the complex health information out there and turning it into something simple, doable, and actually realistic for your life.In this episode we talk about:✨ What optimal health really looks like✨ What biohacking actually is and what it looks like for women in midlife✨ The difference between healthspan and lifespan✨ Why strength training is the ultimate longevity tool✨ Tracking tools: when it's useful and when it messes with your head✨ Toxic load and how to reduce it without losing your mind✨ Why you do not need a 3-hour morning routineThis episode is packed with simple, doable shifts that make a huge difference over time.For more on Dr Nat:Website - https://drnathaliebeauchamp.com/#LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/drnathaliebeauchamp/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/drnathaliebeauchamp/Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/drnathaliebDownload The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
On today's Thursday's Thoughts, Lucy and I are talking about the difference between thoughts and thinking, thanks to a book that I have been reading called Don't Believe Everything You Think by Joseph Nguyen.We all have thoughts - between 60,000 and 70,000 each day - but we get to choose which of those thoughts we want to entertain into actual thinking, and which of those we don't.Lucy and I talk about how we've both worked hard on our own thinking over the last few years. We also discuss some of the practical steps you can take in order to become more aware of what's going on between your ears, including getting into a wonderful ‘flow state' that gets us out of our thinking brain and into the present moment, and moving your body to shift your energetic state.We really hope you'll enjoy this conversation.Love,Polly & Lucy xDownload The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
On this week's Thursday's Thoughts, Lucy and I are talking about not waiting for the wake-up call before you begin living in a way that truly supports your wellbeing.We discuss how the simple choices you make every day shape your health, your energy and your sense of aliveness.And how change doesn't have to be dramatic - it can start with one small choice at a time.This is a gentle reminder that you don't have to reach burnout, a crisis or rock bottom to choose differently. You can start right now. We really hope you'll find something useful in here.Download The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
When you're ambitious, responsible, and constantly holding space for others — your own needs, goals, and joy can slowly slip to the bottom of the list.This week on the podcast, I'm joined by Danielle McGeough — professor, speaker, mum, and self-leadership coach for high-achieving women. Danielle blends research, lived experience, and playful experimentation to help women reclaim their time and reimagine how they approach planning and productivity.Together, we explore what becomes possible when you stop chasing discipline and start leading with clarity, curiosity, and nervous system safety.We talk about staying organised without burning out, reconnecting with what actually matters, and why planning starts with self-trust - not pressure.In this episode, you'll learn:Why most traditional planning systems fail working mums - and what actually helpsHow to build structure that supports your nervous system, not overloads itWhat it looks like to set goals from a place of calm, not cortisolThe power of mini rituals and micro-moments to anchor your dayWays to return to your goals when life gets messyTo get in touch with Danielle go to:https://www.plangoalplan.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielle-mcgeough-phd-%F0%9F%97%93%EF%B8%8F-b673334/Download The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
On today's Thursday Thoughts, Lucy and I are talking about how long we allow ourselves to dwell on things that aren't serving us; in other words, where we're placing our attention.How often do you actually notice where your mind is at any given moment? And how often do you find yourself ruminating on something that isn't making you feel good? Perhaps you had an argument with a friend, or maybe you're worried about an email from your boss. Are you still thinking about it three days later?Lucy and I talk about why it's so incredibly important to bring more awareness to our thoughts, and to consciously choose to shift our focus onto something else, rather than obsess over things that are completely out of our control.Of course we need to feel our feelings - and of course some things are much bigger and more serious than others - but in the day to day of life, how long do you tend to dwell on a conversation, event, or incident that is making you feel bad?We hope you'll find something useful in here.Love,Polly & Lucy xDownload The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
Wondering where your confidence has gone?You're definitely not alone. So many of us in midlife have spent years proving, pleasing, supporting everyone else… and somewhere along the way, we quietly lose touch with who we are at our core.In this episode, I'm joined by the brilliant Sarah Snape, a midlife confidence coach who has truly walked this path herself. For years, Sarah said no to things she secretly wanted. She stayed small, stayed safe, stayed on the sidelines — not because she lacked ability, but because her self-belief had slowly worn away.Eventually, she realised she didn't want to blend in anymore. She wanted to live. So she started saying YES — gently, bravely, one small choice at a time. And that's where her confidence began to rebuild: from the inside out.In this conversation, Sarah shares how you can do the same.You'll hear: Why confidence often fades in midlife — and how to reconnect to it The mindset shifts that make the biggest difference How to stop waiting to feel “ready” and take aligned action now Simple ways to stretch your comfort zone without overwhelming your nervous system Why confidence isn't about being loud, extroverted, or polished — it's about being youIf confidence feels like something you've lost or never fully owned, this episode will remind you how to find it again.For more about Sarah go to: https://www.sarahjsnape.com/Or https://www.instagram.com/sarahjsnape/Download The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
On this weeks Monday Motivation, Lucy and I are sharing our thoughts about meditation.We're diving into what meditation really is - why it's not about ‘switching off your mind', and why meditation has been such a game changer for both of us.We also share some simple ways to start your own practice. Because meditation is a practice - the benefits feel subtle at first, but over time, they're absolutely life-changing.We hope you find something useful in here.Love Polly & Lucy xxDownload The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
Do you ever wonder if the version of you who had endless energy… is gone for good?Not because you're unmotivated.But because you've been running on empty, in ways you've learned to normalise.If your mind rarely slows down, your body never fully relaxes, and even doing “all the right things” still leaves you depleted, this episode is for you.This week, I'm joined by Hope Pedraza — Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner, Holistic Nutritionist, and Pilates studio owner — whose work supports high-performing women in healing their hormones, calming their nervous systems, and finally feeling like themselves again.
On this week's Thursday Thoughts, Lucy and I are talking all about the perils of social media…and screens in general.The global average daily time spent on social media is approximately 2.5 hours - shocking when you really think about it. And as we doom scroll through our feeds, it's worth noting that we aren't actually living our lives during that time - we're watching the lives of others.The truth is that social media is highly addictive, and it's up to us to bring awareness to our own consumption. So ask yourself: how much of your time and attention are you giving away to it? And how does a 60 minute scroll actually make you feel?We hope you'll find this conversation useful.Love,Polly & Lucy xDownload The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
"Be brave. You have nothing to lose… All you have to do is say ‘yes, why not me?', and go for it, because more doors will open to you than you could ever imagine." —Cerys GoodallSome days, running a business feels like you're juggling too much and still falling behind. The pressure to do it all, be everywhere, and never drop the ball is real—and it's exhausting. But there's a smarter, braver way to build success that doesn't require perfecting it all and burning out.From biotech labs to NASA missions, Cerys Goodall discovered her gift not only in building teams or launching tech, but in championing people and guiding leaders through their toughest transitions. Now, as the founder of The Goods, Cerys helps founders and CEOs find their footing when the ground shifts, showing that real progress comes from daring to say yes, embracing imperfection, and holding tight to your values. Join Heather and Cerys for a friendly chat about outsourcing what drains you, finding business bravery, leading with real values, supporting women and parents, embracing flexible work, and practical consulting advice. Connect with Heather: WebsiteFacebook InstagramLinkedInEpisode Highlights:01:43 Supporting Women and Parents in the Workplace10:22 Navigating the Tech to Consulting Space16:59 Opportunities in Tech24:39 Building Values-Based Businesses 28:54 Advice for Small Business Owners32:54 The Role of Consultants in Business Growth36:57 Take the Brave Path
On this week's Thursday's Thoughts, Lucy and I are talking about stillness.We explore what really happens when you pause — how your nervous system softens, your clarity returns, and life begins to feel a little more spacious again.But stillness isn't just about sitting cross-legged in silence. Sometimes it's a quiet walk without your headphones, where your mind finally gets a moment to be still.We also chat about how meditation doesn't just calm your mind — it's scientifically proven to boost your health and spark moments of real inspiration.The truth is, we only perceive a tiny slice of reality… and stillness helps us sense that there's so much more available to us — beyond what we can see, do, or measure.We hope you find something useful in here.Love Polly & Lucy xxDownload The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
This week on Menomorphosis, I'm joined by the brilliant VJ Hamilton — Nutritionist, Functional Medicine Practitioner, and founder of The Autoimmunity Nutritionist.VJ specialises in helping women uncover the root causes behind autoimmune conditions and chronic inflammation. After her own journey with multiple autoimmune diagnoses (she's been symptom free now for 9 years), she now supports others to restore energy and reduce symptoms through nutrition and lifestyle medicine.In this conversation, we explore the often-overlooked link between autoimmunity, stress, and the nervous system . VJ shares practical, empowering ways to support your body naturally, understand what your immune system is really trying to tell you, and move from burnout to balance.What you'll learn:The early signs of autoimmunity How chronic stress and an overactive nervous system can fuel inflammationWhy rest and nourishment are just as crucial as diet when healing the bodyThe role of gut health, joy and self-compassion in calming autoimmunityHow to eat and live in a way that supports long-term energy and vitalityIf you've ever felt like your body is working against you — or you're ready to understand the deeper connection between your immune system, hormones, and nervous system — this episode will help you see that healing is absolutely possible.For more about VJ:https://theautoimmunitynutritionist.com/https://www.instagram.com/theautoimmunitynutritionist/The Autoimmune Reset PodcastDownload The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
On today's Thursday Thoughts, Lucy and I are talking about the importance of having fun.Fun is essential for living a good life, especially with everything that's going on in the world at the moment. But fun can look very different for everyone (Lucy and I have very different ideas of what fun is!), and that's ok.Whether fun for you is a work 'away day' playing rounders in the park, or a quiet dinner with your bestie, it all matters. And we need to be intentional about incorporating more of it into our lives.We hope you'll find something useful in here!Love,Polly & Lucy x Download The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
Ever find yourself snapping at the smallest thing — and then instantly regretting it?In this solo episode, I unpack the real reason irritability spikes in midlife — especially for women juggling perimenopause, invisible loads, and nervous systems that never get a moment's rest.I explore:Why you're not “overreacting” — you're overcapacityThe link between chronic over-breathing and emotional reactivityWhat the snap moment is really showing you (it's not failure, it's feedback)How to gently widen your Window of Tolerance using breathwork, cold exposure, and moreWhat it means to feel resourced enough to respond instead of react — and how to build that inner capacityIf you've ever said, “I don't want to be this reactive, but I don't know how to stop,” this episode is your moment of pause, permission, and possibility.
On today's Thursday Thoughts, Lucy and I are talking about making decisions.There is nothing worse than the pain of indecision. You go back and forth, driving yourself crazy by not deciding. And the truth is that you're never going to know if you've made the 'right' or 'wrong' decision until you've actually made it.In this conversation, Lucy and I talk about our own experiences of decision making, how making decisions quickly is a skill, and why ultimately, whatever decision we make, we will always learn and grow. Plus, even if we make a so-called wrong decision, nothing is set in stone and we have to power to change things.As with so many things, fear is often what's holding us back from making a decision; but when we find the courage to move through the fear and take action, we move forward. Whereas indecision only keeps us standing still.We hope you'll find something useful in here!Love,Polly & Lucy xDownload The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
In this episode, I'm joined by fabulous Nicky Hambleton-Jones, best known as the presenter of the hit TV show 10 Years Younger, but who's work goes far beyond makeovers.Together, we explore how style becomes more than skin-deep — especially in midlife, when confidence can feel elusive and identity is in flux.This is a conversation about self-image, visibility, and using what you wear as a tool to remember who you are — and who you're becoming.Together, we explore:Why so many women feel invisible in midlife — and how bold style choices can disrupt that patternHow clothes can shift energy, rewire identity, and invite a new way of beingHow an “alter ego” can interrupt self-doubt and create momentumThe quiet power of a well-constructed outfit (that fits you — not who you used to be)Styling strategies that support your actual life and that make you feel aliveThis episode is for any woman who's ever caught her reflection and felt the ache of disconnection — and wants to reclaim style as a source of power, not pressure.Because midlife isn't about shrinking or settling. It's an invitation to be seen — fully, boldly, and on your own terms.For Nicky's book and more info go to: https://nickyhambletonjones.com/Download The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
The Power of Now - A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment with Linda and Barbara
The Power of Now - A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment with Gilda and BarbaraIn this episode, we cover "A New Earth - Chapter 8, Section 16 The Discovery of Inner Space - Stillness" by Eckhart Tolle. Gilda Simonet and Barbara Wainwright have been studying Eckhart Tolle's work for ages. For the podcast purposes, we plan to go through the book from start to finish, reading only one section at a time. There are 122 sections of the book! Join our Facebook Group "The Power of Now - A Guide to Spiritual Enlightenment with Gilda and Barbara" https://www.facebook.com/groups/thepowerofnowaguidetospiritualenlightmentwithgandb/Contribute to our show here: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/barbara-wainwright/supportLearn more about Barbara Wainwright and our Coaching Courses here: http://www.LifeCoachTrainingOnline.com 800-711-4346
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Gene: Relentless work ethic.There's a better way to build homes—faster, cheaper, and greener. Gene Eidelman, Cofounder of Azure Printed Homes, has proven this with a groundbreaking approach to construction. Using recycled plastics, his company is addressing the housing crisis while reducing environmental impact.Gene's journey started six years ago with a simple idea: to build homes that are more affordable and sustainable. After two and a half years of experimentation, he and his team developed a prototype during the COVID-19 pandemic. “The unit we developed actually is the one that's in the video now,” he shared in today's episode. “It's a backyard studio that can be built very quickly in our factory. It takes us 24 hours to print and five days to finish.”From these modest beginnings, Azure Printed Homes has expanded its scope. Today, the company produces a range of units, from luxury eco-resorts to affordable housing subdivisions and even villages for the unhoused. “This whole spectrum of products… [is] coming out from our factory,” Gene said. “It's just been an incredible journey.”What sets Azure apart isn't just the technology—it's the mission. By repurposing recycled plastic, the company builds homes 70% faster and 30% cheaper than traditional methods. With construction being one of the largest contributors to global waste, this innovation is a game-changer.Gene also shared exciting news: Azure was recently named a winner in Pepperdine University's Most Fundable Companies competition, an accolade awarded after a rigorous review of companies from across the country. This recognition highlights not just the company's innovation but also its potential to scale.Azure Printed Homes is currently raising capital through a regulated investment crowdfunding campaign on WeFunder, offering everyday investors a chance to join their journey. “Crowdfunding democratizes the investment,” Gene explained. “People… understand good design, affordable housing, [and] sustainability.”Gene's story isn't just about building homes—it's about building solutions to some of society's most pressing challenges. By combining sustainability, innovation, and a clear social impact, he's creating a blueprint for a better future.tl;dr:Gene Eidelman cofounded Azure Printed Homes to build faster, cheaper, and sustainable homes using recycled plastics.Azure's innovative units range from eco-resorts to affordable housing for the unhoused, addressing critical needs.Recently named one of Pepperdine University's Most Fundable Companies, Azure's success continues to grow.Gene credits his relentless work ethic and crowdfunding campaigns for raising over $7.2 million.Azure's WeFunder campaign, closing October 15, is the last chance for non-accredited investors to join.How to Develop Relentless Work Ethic As a SuperpowerGene's superpower, as he explained in today's episode, is rooted in his relentless work ethic and determination. Reflecting on his childhood as a refugee from Ukraine, he shared lessons from his father: “You don't know whether you're smarter than the person next to you. But one thing you can do, you can outwork them.” This philosophy fueled his success, from arriving in the U.S. with no English to launching a groundbreaking company. Gene emphasized, “Just never give up… no matter how tough it is.”Illustrative Story:Gene shared how his perseverance shaped Azure Printed Homes' journey. During a challenging time for venture funding, the company turned to crowdfunding, despite Gene initially doubting its feasibility. Over six successful campaigns, Azure raised over $7.2 million, with a third coming from everyday investors. Gene's commitment to his vision kept him pushing forward, even when traditional funding sources dried up. This unwavering determination allowed Azure to scale and achieve recognition as one of Pepperdine University's Most Fundable Companies.Tips for Developing the Superpower:Don't Give Up: Pursue your goals relentlessly, even when faced with repeated setbacks.Seek Product-Market Fit: Validate your ideas by talking to potential customers early and often.Embrace Rejection: Treat every “no” as a step closer to a “yes.”Leverage Crowdfunding: Democratize access to funding by inviting community support for your vision.Work Harder: Outwork others to gain an edge in achieving your goals.By following Gene's example and advice, you can make a relentless work ethic a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileGene Eidelman (he/him):Cofounder, Azure Printed HomesAbout Azure Printed Homes: Azure Printed Homes is fundamentally changing the construction industry by leveraging 3D printing technology using recycled polymers and fiberglass to prefab tiny homes, ADUs, affordable homes and units for housing after natural disasters 70% faster and 30% less expensive than existing construction methods. Website: azureprintedhomes.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/azureprintedhomes Company Twitter Handle: @azureprinthomesOther URL: wefunder.com/azureBiographical Information: Gene Eidelman: Pioneering Sustainable and Affordable 3D Printing of HomesFrom developing multifamily housing to revolutionizing the construction industry with 3D-printed homes, Gene's journey in entrepreneurship is marked by innovation and impact. He co-founded his latest start-up, Azure Printed Homes in 2022. At Azure, Gene and his team are breaking new ground with a patented 3D printing process that constructs entire structures from recycled materials, fiberglass and other additives. This eco-friendly method is not only 70% faster but also 30% less expensive than traditional construction, revolutionizing how we think about building homes. Since May 2023, Azure Printed Homes has been delivering units ranging from workforce housing, affordable houses, homes for victims of natural disasters and units for outdoor hospitality industry, with a focus on sustainable, attainable housing for all. Azure current state-of-the art factory is in Los Angeles. They will be opening a factory in Colorado in 2025 and will be opening locations around the globe in 2026 and 2027. Azure is the winner of numerous awards and recognitions, including the 2024 Real Estate Tech Awards and 2025 Fast Company Global Innovator. Azure is currently raising its next round of funding at https://invest.azureprintedhomes.com. Gene is a sought-after speaker and thought leader in the fields of innovation, entrepreneurship, sustainability, 3D Printing, construction and real estate. He delivered a TED talk on the future of housing, which has over 500,000 views and has been selected as one of the most impactful TED talk this century. His work is paving the way for a future where affordable and sustainable housing is going to be attainable by all.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/geneeidelmanPersonal Twitter Handle: @geidelman Support Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive), Inner Space, and Bright Start. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Superpowers for Good Live Pitch on September 29, 2025, hosted by Devin Thorpe on e360tv, will feature Core Tax Deeds, Dopple, ProActive Realty Group, and Victory Hemp Foods pitching their active Regulation Crowdfunding campaigns to a nationwide audience. Viewers can vote for their favorite companies, win prizes, ask live questions, and join a private investor Zoom session to engage directly with founders and even invest during the show. Don't miss this free chance to discover and support purpose-driven startups—register here: https://thesupercrowd.com/25q3pitchImpact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on October 28, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.KingsCrowd Investment Crowdfunding Week: September 29 through October 2nd, featuring speakers, panels and live pitches (Devin Thorpe will be judging the Clean Energy pitch session on September 30 at 2ET/11PT). Free registration!Neighborhood Economics: Chicago takes place September 29–October 1, 2025, at Venue SIX10, bringing together changemakers, innovators, and community leaders reimagining wealth, ownership, and entrepreneurship to drive real community transformation.Earthstock Festival & Summit (Oct 2–5, 2025, Santa Monica & Venice, CA) unites music, arts, ecology, health, and green innovation for four days of learning, networking, and celebration. Register now at EarthstockFestival.com.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,500+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
On this week's Thursday's Thoughts, Lucy and I are diving into the idea of taking up space, something so many of us women have been conditioned not to do.But the truth is shrinking doesn't serve us. When we apologise for existing, second-guess what we say, or dim our brilliance, we hide the very magic that makes us who we truly are.We talk about the subtle, everyday ways this “shrinking” shows up, and how we can start reclaiming our space with confidence and authenticity.We hope you find something useful in here.Love Polly & Lucy xDownload The Breath Check-Up - your FREE guide to understanding how well you're breathing right now. Download my energising 5 Minute Morning Practice to get your day started in the best way possible. To find out more about my membership The Inner Space go to: https://www.pollywarren.com/theinnerspaceEmail me at: info@pollywarren.comhttps://www.pollywarren.com/https://www.instagram.com/pollywarrencoaching/
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Lisa: Refusing to give up.Too many families face overwhelming challenges when trying to access life-saving benefits, often giving up before receiving the help they need. Lisa Marino, Founder and CEO of Dopple, has made it her mission to simplify the process.Lisa's personal experience navigating the welfare system while earning her MBA at Stanford inspired her to create Dopple. She explained, “We built for others what we did for ourselves to get our own family through.” Her platform connects families to an array of funding sources—government benefits, philanthropic programs, and contributions from friends and family—by streamlining the process into a simple, AI-driven solution.In today's episode, Lisa highlighted a staggering statistic: “40% of families eligible for SNAP are so overwhelmed by the application process that many just drop out.” She's determined to eliminate this friction, helping families secure critical funding for essentials like childcare, diapers, and even college savings.Lisa Marino will be pitching at the Superpowers for Good Live Pitch on September 29, 2025, at 5 PM ET! You'll not only see her live but also get the chance to ask her questions directly in the private investor session afterward. Register here.Dopple's approach begins with a 12-month budget, encouraging families to think comprehensively about their needs. The platform then leverages AI to match families with available resources and funding opportunities. Lisa shared, “We've taken this budget that maybe started at $25,000 and start whacking away at it… shifting $20,000 plus from being out of pocket to the family to the village that wants to support them.”Dopple's innovative model also addresses the philanthropic side. By fractionalizing gifting, Dopple enables friends, family, and organizations to contribute directly to a family's needs. Additionally, the company generates revenue through subscription-based kids' clothing and essential products like diapers and formula.Lisa's commitment to making a difference extends beyond her platform's services. Dopple is currently raising funds on Wefunder, inviting everyday individuals to invest in the company's vision. Lisa explained, “I believe in being egalitarian… If we're trying to help families fund the basics, we need to walk the walk.”By tackling the bureaucratic hurdles that prevent families from accessing critical support, Lisa and Dopple are making an extraordinary impact. Learn more about their mission and investment opportunity at thedopple.com/invest.tl;dr:Lisa Marino, CEO of Dopple, shares her journey navigating welfare systems during her MBA at Stanford.Dopple simplifies access to critical benefits, combining AI and a comprehensive family budgeting platform.The platform connects families to funding sources, reducing out-of-pocket expenses by leveraging their community.Lisa emphasizes Dopple's egalitarian approach, inviting individuals to invest via a Wefunder campaign.Her superpower, refusing to give up, drives her to tackle challenges with persistence and grit.How to Develop Refusing to Give Up As a SuperpowerLisa Marino's superpower is her unrelenting tenacity to overcome obstacles. She described it simply: “The hard part was sitting down and figuring it out.” Whether navigating complex welfare systems during her pregnancy or guiding her company through challenges, Lisa defines success as persistence. As she told her kids, “People who put on the big kid pants clean it up… and move forward.”Lisa's determination was tested during her time as CEO of Rocky. She inherited a company with a $400 million preference stack and declining revenue. Despite being advised against taking the role, she worked tirelessly to restructure the business, rebuild profitability, and grow through acquisitions. Years of difficult conversations and strategic moves eventually led to success—an exemplary display of perseverance.Tips for Developing This Superpower:Set Realistic Expectations: Focus on achieving small wins, even when faced with overwhelming challenges.Embrace the Grind: Accept that progress takes time and effort, and remain committed to the vision.Allow Yourself Breaks: Give yourself permission to recharge when needed, such as Lisa's “quarterly pity party.”Take Control: Address challenges proactively rather than waiting for them to escalate.By following Lisa's example and advice, you can make refusing to give up a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileLisa Marino (she/her):Founder and CEO, DoppleAbout Dopple: Two thirds of all families live paycheck to paycheck yet billions of federal and philanthropic dollars earmarked for these families go unused each year. The system is opaque, inefficient, and requires an advanced degree to navigate. I know this because at one point, before I became a successful operator, I was forced to navigate it for my family.Dopple is the platform to bring transparency and efficiency to the flow of funds in this market. We are the qualification engine and payment rails in the middle. Dopple launches in July in New Jersey, and I am looking for a famly foundation with an aligned vision to be a design and beta partner with us. Use of funds will be to cover needs such as diapers, childcare and tuition for mid to low income families in NJ.Website: thedopple.comCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/thedoppleOther URL: thedopple.com/investBiographical Information:- First person in my immigrant Mexican family to go to college, which I paid for myself. BS Wharton, MBA Stanford GSB, MA Latin American Studies, Stanford.- Reformed tech M&A banker and 3rd time entrepreneur who gets it done while a single mom.- Bootstrapped my last company and sold it to McClatchy in January 2024.- Designed with my daughter and then GC'd my home build during 2022-2023 in Big Sky, MT while simultaneously running a company. Every piece of trim in my house I stained myself.- At 54, there's still no friends on powder days.Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/lisa-marino-b520545Instagram Handle: @thedoppleSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive), and Inner Space. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Superpowers for Good Live Pitch on September 29, 2025, hosted by Devin Thorpe on e360tv, will feature Core Tax Deeds, Dopple, ProActive Realty Group, and Victory Hemp Foods pitching their active Regulation Crowdfunding campaigns to a nationwide audience. Viewers can vote for their favorite companies, win prizes, ask live questions, and join a private investor Zoom session to engage directly with founders and even invest during the show. Don't miss this free chance to discover and support purpose-driven startups—register here: https://thesupercrowd.com/25q3pitchImpact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on October 28, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.KingsCrowd Investment Crowdfunding Week: September 29 through October 2nd, featuring speakers, panels and live pitches (Devin Thorpe will be judging the Clean Energy pitch session on September 30 at 2ET/11PT). Free registration!Neighborhood Economics: Chicago takes place September 29–October 1, 2025, at Venue SIX10, bringing together changemakers, innovators, and community leaders reimagining wealth, ownership, and entrepreneurship to drive real community transformation.Earthstock Festival & Summit (Oct 2–5, 2025, Santa Monica & Venice, CA) unites music, arts, ecology, health, and green innovation for four days of learning, networking, and celebration. Register now at EarthstockFestival.com.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,500+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
Ever found yourself spiralling — replaying conversations at 2am, feeling the guilt after snapping at your kids, or feeling overwhelmed with your breath stuck in your chest? You're not alone, and you can stop the loop in just two minutes.This week, I share a very real story about dropping my son off at university in Barcelona… only to come home to visa issues and a leak through my kitchen ceiling. Suddenly, I was caught in the spiral too.Inside this episode, I talk about:Why spirals feel endless (and why they're so draining)The brain science of how one thought snowballs into manyHow your breathing patterns can either fuel the spiral or stop it in its tracks I A simple, science-backed breath tool to reset in under two minutes✨ Want real-time support? Get The Spiral Interruptor — five guided audios, each just two minutes long, designed for those exact “I'm spiralling” moments. Only £17. [Get instant access here].
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Troy: Making a plan.Food delivery apps have revolutionized how we eat, but at what cost? Hidden fees, high commissions, and driver exploitation have left restaurants struggling to stay afloat. Recognizing this broken system, Troy Smith, CEO of Chop Chop, created a solution designed to empower restaurants and drivers alike while saving money for small businesses.Chop Chop isn't your typical food delivery app. “We're not an ordering app,” Troy explained in today's episode. “We believe restaurants should take their own orders and payments. What we do is connect drivers with restaurants.” This unique approach eliminates the hefty commissions that traditional apps charge—often up to 30% of an order—enabling restaurants to retain more of their revenue.Troy's innovative model is simple yet impactful. Restaurants pay a flat $199 monthly fee to access the app, allowing them to connect with vetted drivers who deliver orders. Unlike other platforms, Chop Chop ensures drivers are paid fairly—directly from the restaurant through Stripe, with funds held in escrow until delivery is confirmed. Customers receive real-time updates via SMS without needing to download the app, while restaurants maintain full control of the customer relationship.This streamlined system offers a lifeline to small businesses, especially mom-and-pop restaurants, which have been disproportionately affected by high delivery fees. “Deliveries have become a huge revenue stream for restaurants, especially since COVID,” Troy shared. “But the current system just isn't working. Restaurants are paying more money to send food to their own customers than ever before.”Chop Chop's mission extends beyond financial benefits. Many drivers and restaurants in the network are first-generation immigrants who often face exploitation in the gig economy. “FundingHope really resonated with us because they're looking out for the small guy,” Troy said. Chop Chop's crowdfunding campaign on FundingHope invites customers, drivers, and supporters to invest in the platform and help scale this game-changing solution.For just $199 a month—less than the price of a cup of coffee per day—restaurants can reclaim control, drivers can earn fairly, and customers can support their favorite local businesses without guilt. Chop Chop is more than a delivery app; it's a movement to restore fairness and transparency in food delivery.Visit ChopChop.mobi or FundingHope to learn more about this revolutionary app and its crowdfunding campaign.tl;dr:Troy Smith explains how Chop Chop empowers restaurants by eliminating high delivery fees and exploitation.The platform charges restaurants a flat $199 monthly fee, connecting them with vetted drivers for deliveries.Chop Chop ensures drivers are paid fairly via Stripe, fostering transparency and trust in the process.Inspired by personal experiences and challenges during COVID, Troy created a practical, scalable solution.The company invites investors to join its FundingHope campaign, supporting a fairer food delivery ecosystem.How to Develop Making a Plan As a SuperpowerTroy Smith's superpower, as he describes it, is the ability to “make a plan.” Growing up in Zimbabwe, he adopted the Afrikaans phrase maak a plan, meaning to solve problems through creativity and resourcefulness. “When something presents itself, a challenge, something is going wrong, you make a plan,” Troy explained in this episode.One powerful story that exemplifies this superpower occurred during the early days of COVID. Troy visited a small Japanese restaurant, where the owner, short on staff, asked him to deliver food for $10. This simple act planted the seed for Chop Chop. “She made the plan for me,” Troy said, “and I realized we could turn this into an app, connecting drivers with restaurants while ensuring fair pay.”To develop this superpower, Troy suggests starting with observation. “Instead of jumping in and trying to fix things, take a moment to see what's going on,” he shared. Identifying the root cause of a problem is key to crafting an effective solution. He also emphasizes the importance of systems, a lesson he learned while running McDonald's franchises in South Africa.By following Troy's example and advice, you can make problem-solving a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileTroy Smith (he/him):CEO, Chop ChopAbout Chop Chop: Chop Chop is a logistics platform that empowers restaurants to run first-party delivery without the costs and headaches of hiring their own drivers. We are not an ordering platform. Restaurants continue to take orders and payments directly from their customers. We connect them with local verified drivers who are screened for license and insurance and who complete deliveries on demand. Unlike third-party apps, we do not take commissions or add hidden fees. Instead, we charge a flat subscription, allowing restaurants to keep more revenue, drivers to earn fairly, and customers to avoid surprise charges.Website: chopchop.mobiOther URL: invest.fundinghope.com/offering/chop-chop/detailsBiographical Information: Troy Smith is the co-founder and CEO of Chop Chop, a logistics platform that helps restaurants run first-party delivery without relying on costly third-party apps. A former McDonald's franchisee, Troy understands firsthand the challenges restaurants face with slim margins and complex operations. He launched Chop Chop to give restaurants control over delivery, ensure fair pay for drivers, and provide customers with transparent, fee-free service.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/trychopchopSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive), and Inner Space. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Superpowers for Good Live Pitch, September 29, 2025. Hosted by Devin Thorpe on e360tv, this special event gives purpose-driven founders the chance to pitch their active Regulation Crowdfunding campaigns to a nationwide audience of investors and supporters. Selected founders will gain exposure to investors, national visibility across social and streaming platforms, and exclusive prizes from judges and sponsors—all at no cost to apply or pitch. Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on October 28, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Neighborhood Economics: Chicago takes place September 29–October 1, 2025, at Venue SIX10, bringing together changemakers, innovators, and community leaders reimagining wealth, ownership, and entrepreneurship to drive real community transformation. For the next two days only, save $200 on registration with promo code CHICAGOFLASH—flash sale ends Thursday at midnight! Register here.Earthstock Festival & Summit (Oct 2–5, 2025, Santa Monica & Venice, CA) unites music, arts, ecology, health, and green innovation for four days of learning, networking, and celebration. Register now at EarthstockFestival.com.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe
Superpowers for Good should not be considered investment advice. Seek counsel before making investment decisions. When you purchase an item, launch a campaign or create an investment account after clicking a link here, we may earn a fee. Engage to support our work.Watch the show on television by downloading the e360tv channel app to your Roku, LG or AmazonFireTV. You can also see it on YouTube.Devin: What is your superpower?Gregory: Vulnerability.Filmmaker Gregory Falatek is channeling his creative energy into a captivating psychological thriller, Elmwood Park, set in his hometown of Norristown, Pennsylvania. With this project, Gregory is not only telling an intriguing story but also building a bridge between art and community through crowdfunding on WeFunder, where anyone can invest in the film for as little as $100.The film, a 90s-era psychological thriller, follows three high school seniors in a post-industrial East Coast town as they navigate a series of events after witnessing a murder. Gregory explained that the story draws on his own experiences growing up in Norristown, as well as his observations of the town's transformation. “This story came to me based on a lot of kind of past experiences. And I just took that and kind of heightened it into fiction,” Gregory shared.After spending a decade in Los Angeles honing his skills in acting and directing—two of his films even premiered at Cannes—Gregory returned to his roots in Pennsylvania. Inspired by the town's history and architecture, he envisioned Elmwood Park as more than just a thrilling night at the movies. “It's not just an exciting kind of thriller of a film… but it also could serve over time as like an architectural time capsule of this place,” he said.Crowdfunding plays a pivotal role in turning this vision into reality. Gregory saw platforms like WeFunder as a way to democratize investing in film. “What I liked about it is… you don't just get a T-shirt. You get actual ownership in the film and can collect on it for the rest of your life,” he explained. By inviting the community to invest, he hopes to inspire others to pursue creative endeavors, just as he was inspired by local role models like Kate Flannery, a fellow Norristown native and actor known for The Office.Gregory's approach is refreshingly inclusive. He shared, “Even if it makes one kid around here think that they can make a film… I think that's super important.” By leveraging crowdfunding to connect with his community, Gregory is creating an opportunity for people to feel both figuratively and literally invested in the film.Filmmaking is no small feat, but Gregory's blend of creativity, vulnerability, and community-focused strategy is proof that art can thrive outside traditional Hollywood systems. Visit to learn more about this project and how you can be part of it.tl;dr:Gregory Falatek shares how Elmwood Park, a psychological thriller, draws on his hometown's history.Crowdfunding on WeFunder enables the public to invest in Elmwood Park for as little as $100.Gregory highlights how returning to Norristown inspired him to preserve local architecture and culture.Vulnerability, Gregory's superpower, fuels his creativity and helps him connect with others authentically.Gregory invites everyone to join the project, emphasizing community impact and the democratization of film.How to Develop Vulnerability As a SuperpowerGregory's superpower is his ability to embrace vulnerability, a skill he credits for enhancing his creativity and human connection. He explained, “I think my creativity comes from being open and vulnerable, actually, in my art.” Gregory shared that growing up, he struggled with being misunderstood, which made him hesitant to open up. Over time, he learned that vulnerability allows for deeper connections, both in life and on screen. “You need this deep sense of vulnerability to make [characters] human… even if you're being funny about it,” he said.Gregory recalled his first feature film as a pivotal moment where he embraced vulnerability. Playing a “burnout type” character, he had to let go of self-consciousness to bring authenticity to the role. Surrounded by cameras and crew, he stayed true to his character, ensuring the performance resonated with humanity and heart. His openness not only elevated his acting but also helped him connect with the people around him, demonstrating the power of vulnerability in creating impactful art.Actionable Tips for Developing Vulnerability:Open Up in Everyday Conversations: Practice vulnerability by being honest and open in your daily interactions with others.Avoid Judging Yourself or Others: Approach creative work and relationships without judgment, allowing for genuine connections.Learn from Observation: Pay attention to how others express vulnerability, and apply those insights to your own life.Embrace Discomfort: Accept that being vulnerable may feel awkward at first, but it leads to growth and connection.By following Gregory's example and advice, you can make vulnerability a skill. With practice and effort, you could make it a superpower that enables you to do more good in the world.Remember, however, that research into success suggests that building on your own superpowers is more important than creating new ones or overcoming weaknesses. You do you!Guest ProfileGregory Falatek (he/him):CEO/Founder (Writer/Director), Elmwood Park Film LLCAbout Elmwood Park Film LLC: Elmwood Park' is a psychological thriller, written and directed by Gregory Falatek, that is disrupting Hollywood in Norristown, Pennsylvania. The feature film stars Kate Flannery (The Office), Bai Ling (The Crow), Keith Poulson (The Sweet East), Conner Marx (New Amsterdam), H. Foley (Tires), and more. 'Elmwood Park' will be shot in February 2026 in Norristown, Pennsylvania and we will utilize the 25% Pennsylvania Film Tax Credit.Website: wefunder.com/elmwoodparkCompany Facebook Page: facebook.com/people/Elmwood-Park-A-Film-by-Gregory-Falatek/61562525752416/Instagram Handle: @elmwoodparkfilmBiographical Information: Gregory Falatek is an award-winning writer, director, and actor, born and based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Most recently, Gregory acted in Christmas Eve in Miller's Point, starring Michael Cera, Ben Shenkman, Maria Dizzia, Elsie Fisher, Gregg Turkington, Francesca Scorcese, Sawyer Spielberg, and Caveh Zahedi, as well Eephus, starring Frederick Wiseman, Keith W. Richards, and Wayne Diamond, both of which debuted at Cannes Film Festival 2024 in the Director's Fortnight. Christmas Eve in Miller's Point was released theatrically in November 2024 by IFC Films and Eephus will be released theatrically in March 2025 by Music Box Films.In addition to acting, Gregory is an award-winning writer and director, who recently gained notoriety for his screenplay, Elmwood Park, a neorealist, psychological thriller that will feature an incredible ensemble cast and has already many screenwriting awards on the festival circuit.LinkedIn Profile: linkedin.com/in/gregory-falatekPersonal Facebook Profile: facebook.com/gregoryjfalatekPersonal Twitter Handle: @falatekInstagram Handle: @falatekSupport Our SponsorsOur generous sponsors make our work possible, serving impact investors, social entrepreneurs, community builders and diverse founders. Today's advertisers include FundingHope, Rancho Affordable Housing (Proactive), Inner Space, and BrightStart. Learn more about advertising with us here.Max-Impact MembersThe following Max-Impact Members provide valuable financial support:Carol Fineagan, Independent Consultant | Hiten Sonpal, RISE Robotics | Lory Moore, Lory Moore Law | Marcia Brinton, High Desert Gear | Mark Grimes, Networked Enterprise Development | Matthew Mead, Hempitecture | Michael Pratt, Qnetic | Dr. Nicole Paulk, Siren Biotechnology | Paul Lovejoy, Stakeholder Enterprise | Pearl Wright, Global Changemaker | Ralf Mandt, Next Pitch | Scott Thorpe, Philanthropist | Sharon Samjitsingh, Health Care Originals | Add Your Name HereUpcoming SuperCrowd Event CalendarIf a location is not noted, the events below are virtual.Impact Cherub Club Meeting hosted by The Super Crowd, Inc., a public benefit corporation, on September 16, 2025, at 1:30 PM Eastern. Each month, the Club meets to review new offerings for investment consideration and to conduct due diligence on previously screened deals. To join the Impact Cherub Club, become an Impact Member of the SuperCrowd.SuperCrowdHour, September 17, 2025, at 12:00 PM Eastern. Devin Thorpe, CEO and Founder of The Super Crowd, Inc., will lead a session on "What's the Difference Between Gambling and Investing? Diversification." When it comes to money, too many people confuse speculation with true investing. In this session, Devin will explore what separates gambling from responsible investment practices—and why diversification is one of the most important tools for reducing risk and improving outcomes. Drawing on real-world examples and practical strategies, he'll help you understand how to evaluate opportunities, spread risk wisely, and think long-term about your portfolio. Whether you're new to investing, considering your first community round, or looking to refine your approach as a seasoned investor, this SuperCrowdHour will give you actionable insights to strengthen your decision-making. Don't miss this chance to sharpen your perspective and invest with greater confidence.Superpowers for Good Live Pitch, September 29, 2025. Hosted by Devin Thorpe on e360tv, this special event gives purpose-driven founders the chance to pitch their active Regulation Crowdfunding campaigns to a nationwide audience of investors and supporters. Selected founders will gain exposure to investors, national visibility across social and streaming platforms, and exclusive prizes from judges and sponsors—all at no cost to apply or pitch. Community Event CalendarSuccessful Funding with Karl Dakin, Tuesdays at 10:00 AM ET - Click on Events.Earthstock Festival & Summit (Oct 2–5, 2025, Santa Monica & Venice, CA) unites music, arts, ecology, health, and green innovation for four days of learning, networking, and celebration. Register now at EarthstockFestival.com.Regulated Investment Crowdfunding Summit 2025, Crowdfunding Professional Association, Washington DC, October 21-22, 2025.Impact Accelerator Summit is a live in-person event taking place in Austin, Texas, from October 23–25, 2025. This exclusive gathering brings together 100 heart-centered, conscious entrepreneurs generating $1M+ in revenue with 20–30 family offices and venture funds actively seeking to invest in world-changing businesses. Referred by Michael Dash, participants can expect an inspiring, high-impact experience focused on capital connection, growth, and global impact.If you would like to submit an event for us to share with the 9,000+ changemakers, investors and entrepreneurs who are members of the SuperCrowd, click here.We use AI to help us write compelling recaps of each episode. Get full access to Superpowers for Good at www.superpowers4good.com/subscribe