Zen Habits Podcast

Resources

Credits

Music: Salem Beladonna & Robrecht Dumarey

Editor: Justin Cruz

Post-production: Diana C. Guzmán Caro & Amanda Goddard

S1 Bonus - Craig Maloney on Embracing the Creative Journey

Zen Habits Podcast

11/01/23 • 43 min

How can we navigate creative projects when faced with major challenges, resistance, and fear of failure?

In this bonus episode, Leo is joined by Fearless Living Academy member Craig Maloney for an inspiring conversation on how to overcome obstacles in creative endeavors, and the importance of tapping into joy as a driving force to craft meaningful experiences.

Topics Covered

Craig's personal journey in game development and creativity
Overcoming resistance and self-doubt when starting and sustaining creative work
Balancing health issues and creative pursuits
The psychological barriers and doubts that creators often encounter
The transformative power of integrating fear and resistance into the creative process
Striving to create meaningful and joyful experiences for oneself and others
The significance of embracing discomfort and pushing beyond comfort zones
Balancing multiple passions and focusing on one at a time
The importance of remembering the original inspiration and purpose behind projects
The practice of self-reflection and journaling in self-improvement

Resources

Connect with Leo

Resources

Credits

Music composition: Salem Beladonna & Robrecht Dumarey

Editor: Justin Cruz

S2 Ep07 - Discovery in the Unknown & Being The Fool

Zen Habits Podcast

04/17/24 • 26 min

As creators, we often find ourselves entangled in a web of indecision, perfectionism, and self-doubt, which prevents us from fully unlocking our creative potential. To liberate ourselves, we need to embrace the unknown, confronting and accepting the risks of failure, judgment, and feelings of inadequacy. But how can we transform our fear of the unknown into a playground of creativity and discovery?

In this episode, we explore the challenges and fears that hold us back from stepping into the unknown of our creative projects, and how adopting a stance of playful curiosity can lead us to unexpected discoveries. We examine how fear, resistance, and the quest for a "safe middle ground" affect our creative journeys and introduce the archetype of The Fool as a guiding principle in creative exploration.

Join me as we explore how the practice of stepping boldly into the unknown, armed with curiosity and a sense of adventure, can transform the creative process into a journey of self-discovery and meaningful expression.

Topics Covered

The importance of exploring the unknown in creative projects
Confronting and understanding the fears that prevent us from creative exploration
The archetype of The Fool as a metaphor for embracing uncertainty and risk in creativity
Overcoming indecision, perfectionism, and the fear of judgement
The illusion of a "safe middle ground" in creativity and its pitfalls
The role of curiosity, play, and adventure in transforming the creative process
Adopting The Fool stance in creative endeavors
Choosing a stand and stepping into the unknown with confidence and purpose

Transcript

You can find the transcript on the episode's web page by clicking here.

Connect with Leo

Resources

Credits

Music: Salem Belladonna & Robrecht Dumarey

Editor: Justin Cruz

Post-production: Diana C. Guzmán Caro & Amanda Goddard

S3 Ep11 - Reflection & Adaptation

Zen Habits Podcast

12/11/24 • 21 min

In our drive to be productive, it’s easy to miss out on one essential step: reflection. Often, we focus on doing more and checking things off without truly understanding our progress or the adjustments that might lead to deeper fulfillment and ease in our work.

In the final episode of the season, we dive into the role of regular reflection and adaptation in our productivity journey. I guide you through techniques for self-assessment that help you identify what’s working, what’s not, and why. I also explain how to use accountability groups, intentional reflection practices, and monthly and yearly reviews to deepen your learning and adapt your strategies to overcome common productivity obstacles.

Join me to learn how to evolve your productivity practices through meaningful reflection, ensuring that your approach to productivity is both adaptable and sustainable.

Topics Covered

The importance of reflection in productivity
How to deepen learning through self-assessment
Techniques for daily, weekly, and monthly reviews
The role of intention-setting in adapting practices
Using accountability groups for commitment
Adapting productivity practices through reflection
Creating a structured routine for productivity reviews
Examples of prompts for daily and weekly reflection
Identifying blockers and evolving strategies to overcome them

Transcript

You can find the transcript on the episode's web page by clicking here.

Explore Zen Habits

Zen Habits Blog

Fearless Living Academy

Coaching with Leo

Connect with Leo

Email: [email protected]

Credits

Music: Salem Belladonna & Robrecht Dumarey

Editor: Justin Cruz

Post-production: Diana C. Guzmán Caro

S1 Bonus - Transforming Fear-Based Narratives with Dave Mitchell

Zen Habits Podcast

01/03/24 • 54 min

Fear often keeps us from diving into what we really care about, nudging us to play it safe instead. But this safety net leaves us feeling like we haven't accomplished much. Ironically, avoiding fear just makes us feel worse about ourselves. But here's the twist: we can change that narrative. We have the power to use fear to make us stronger and help us grow.

In this coaching session, I team up with Dave, a psychologist with a passion for music. Together, we'll dive into how fear prevents us from pursuing our dreams. We'll examine how avoiding fear can make us feel unfulfilled and doubt ourselves. But most importantly, we'll reveal how we can break free from this cycle.

This conversation isn’t just about conquering fear; it's about understanding it, facing its challenges, and using it as a tool for growth. We'll delve into the complexities of fear, self-belief, and the courage needed to pursue our creative aspirations.

Topics Covered

Acknowledging the impact of fear on actions and decision-making
Understanding avoidance and its effects on personal fulfillment
Examining fear narratives and patterns influencing behavior and self-perception
Exploring the discomfort stemming from avoiding fear in creative pursuits
Strategies for breaking free from the cycle of fear and self-doubt
Using fear as a tool for personal growth and resilience
The significance of self-trust in overcoming fear and doubt
The interplay between fear, self-belief, and creative aspirations
Cultivating resilience through a newfound understanding of fear's dynamics

Dave's Resources

FunkyDrDave - Instagram

Transcript

You can find the transcript on the episode's web page by clicking here.

Connect with Leo

Resources

Credits

Music: Salem Beladonna & Robrecht Dumarey

Editor: Justin Cruz

Post-production: Diana C. Guzmán Caro & Amanda Goddard

S3 Ep06 - Overcoming Procrastination

Zen Habits Podcast

10/23/24 • 24 min

Procrastination can feel like an endless battle, one that we keep trying to win through discipline and force. We push ourselves harder, use stricter schedules, or employ rigid systems, only to find ourselves falling back into the same patterns. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that procrastination is simply about lacking motivation or willpower, but the roots run deeper.

In this episode, we explore the true nature of procrastination, examining its roots in fear, uncertainty, and avoidance. I guide you through understanding why we often resist tasks that challenge our sense of self and how this resistance impacts our productivity. By diving into mindful techniques and practical strategies, you’ll discover ways to address the emotions that hold you back and build habits that support your intentions.

Join me as we uncover the power of self-compassion in overcoming procrastination and learn how to turn resistance into a tool for growth and productivity.

Topics Covered

Understanding the roots of procrastination
The role of fear and uncertainty in triggering procrastination
How procrastination is linked to self-identity and ego
Mindful techniques for recognizing and addressing resistance
The limitations of using discipline and force
Strategies for breaking tasks into manageable chunks
The importance of self-compassion
Building habits that promote consistent action and reduce avoidance
Accountability techniques to stay focused and motivated
How to restart with a fresh mindset after a setback

Transcript

You can find the transcript on the episode's web page by clicking here.

Explore Zen Habits

Zen Habits Blog

Fearless Living Academy

Coaching with Leo

Connect with Leo

Credits

Music: Salem Belladonna & Robrecht Dumarey

Editor: Justin Cruz

Post-production: Diana C. Guzmán Caro

S2 Bonus - Linda McIntyre on Music, Healing, and Community

Zen Habits Podcast

04/10/24 • 62 min

At the heart of every challenge lies the potential for innovation, unity, and profound personal growth. Music, with its boundless capacity to express, heal, and unite, offers a unique vantage point on life's challenges.

This week I have the privilege to be joined by Linda McIntyre, a composer, conductor, and pioneer at the forefront of using music as a transformative force to bring light to the shadows of Parkinson's disease. Her work with the New Voice Choir not only showcases the transformative power of music but also the strength found in community and shared experiences.

In this episode, we uncover the layers of Linda's mission, diving into the relationship between music and wellness, the communal strength born from shared vulnerability, and the transformative journey of turning adversity into art. We explore the nuances of creating a safe, nurturing space where music serves as both a bridge and a destination, inviting us to consider the broader implications of artistic expression as a form of therapy and celebration.

Join us as we tune into the melodies of resilience, exploring how creativity, when fueled by love and resilience, can transcend personal challenges, and inspire collective healing and joy.

Topics Covered

The interplay of music and healing in Parkinson's management
Building community and support through choir participation
Harnessing personal challenges as fuel for creative expression
The transformative journey from individual struggle to collective strength
The role of creativity in enhancing physical and mental well-being
Adapting artistic practices for inclusivity and accessibility
The importance and value of routine in sustaining creative projects
Navigating the challenges of leadership and inspiration in therapeutic settings
Music as a bridge between personal experience and communal healing
The impact of collaborative art on overcoming societal stigmas

Transcript

You can find the transcript on the episode's web page by clicking here.

Linda's Bio & Resources

Linda is an award-winning composer, arranger, teacher, director, & performer – just an all-round muso, really! More recently, her PhD candidature has been added to the mix with the aim of producing a portfolio of new music based on a narrative of lived trauma.

As a composer with Parkinson’s, Linda is in a unique position to record a case study within her PhD, evaluating the impacts of Parkinson’s disease on her deepest levels of mathematical creativity across a period of years. Some surprising reverse developments have already come to light within this process!

She is the co-founder & musical director of New Voice Choir (NVC), a group that celebrates people with Parkinson’s and their supporters.

The combining of music composition with Parkinson’s, teaching, and the uplifting NVC community has become an abiding passion for Linda.

NVC’s website: www.newvoicechoir.org.au
Video: Fighting Parkinson’s the Musical Way

Zen Habits Resources

Connect with Leo

Email: [email protected]

Credits

Music: Salem Beladonna & Robrecht Dumarey

Editor: Justin Cruz

Post-production: Diana C. Guzmán Caro & Amanda Goddard

S1 Bonus - Jocelyn Glei on Creating with Open Receptivity

Zen Habits Podcast

10/07/23 • 51 min

In this bonus episode, Leo interviews expert Jocelyn Glei, who has shifted her expertise from productivity to a slower, deeper approach to work.

This is an incredible episode filled with wisdom and tools for accessing a deeper creativity. Must listen!

Topics Covered

Leo interviews Jocelyn Glei, a former productivity expert who transitioned to a more transformative, slower approach to work
Jocelyn's background includes working with 99U, creating the 99U conference, and writing a book on email productivity
Jocelyn's burnout led her to start the "Hurry Slowly" podcast and explore personal and collective transformation
The importance of moving away from mainstream productivity and embracing a slower, more inquisitive, and heartfelt approach to work
The shift from productivity to receptivity and how it can lead to more efficient and sustainable outcomes
Restorative activities that involve doing something different to refresh one's mindset
Fear, particularly related to scheduling and deadlines, as a common obstacle to maintaining a receptive state during work
The limitations of the expert mode, which can be rigid and uncreative
Leaning towards the experimental side to open up opportunities for creativity and learning from creative mistakes
The fear associated with not having a strict plan but highlights the beauty in unexpected outcomes
The importance of self-trust and leaning into imperfections
Creating systems to collect and revisit creative insights

Resources

Connect with Leo

Email [email protected]

Resources

Credits

Intro music composition: Salem Beladonna & Robrecht Dumarey

Editor: Justin Cruz

S1 Ep13 - Community & Support

Zen Habits Podcast

11/29/23 • 15 min

Stepping into leadership roles, whether within our families or teams, involves taking on the responsibility for the impact we have on others and the world. However, in leadership we often overlook the crucial aspect of taking care of ourselves and our needs as leaders.

In this episode, we'll explore a new way of understanding leadership and unravel its true essence. We'll discuss the importance of seeking support and its role in empowering us as leaders. Additionally, we'll explore the transformative power of building communities to help us grow as leaders, foster personal development, and amplify our impact along the way.

Topics Covered

Understanding the responsibility of leadership roles within families and teams
The often-overlooked significance of self-care for effective leadership
Unraveling the true essence and qualities of impactful leadership
The pivotal role of seeking support in navigating the challenges of leadership
Exploring the transformative aspects of the Fearless Mastery program
Importance of communities in fostering leadership growth and personal development
Strategies for leveraging community support to amplify leadership impact and growth

Transcript

You can find the transcript on the episode's web page by clicking here.

Connect with Leo

Resources

Credits

Music composition: Salem Beladonna & Robrecht Dumarey

Editor: Justin Cruz

Post-production: Diana C. Guzmán Caro & Amanda Goddard

S3 Bonus - Eran Katz on Parenting, Self-Awareness & Playfulness

Zen Habits Podcast

12/16/24 • 63 min

Parenting often feels like a whirlwind of challenges, leaving us searching for quick fixes and one-size-fits-all solutions. But the truth is, focusing solely on our children’s behavior can leave us disconnected from the deeper work required for real transformation.

This week, I’m excited to welcome Eran Katz, a clinical psychologist, father, and creator of the Parenting MAP framework and the Apparently Parent podcast. Eran’s mission is to guide parents out of stress and confusion into confidence and harmony, fostering enduring, meaningful relationships with their children.

In this episode, we explore Eran’s journey of helping parents embrace self-awareness and self-regulation as the foundations for intentional parenting. We also delve into his personal challenges as a creator, confronting fears and reconnecting with his essence to share his wisdom with the world.

Tune in to discover how cultivating playfulness, peace, and connection can transform both parenting and our creative pursuits, bringing profound change to our lives and the lives of our children.

Topics Covered

The importance of self-awareness and regulation in parenting
Eran’s journey from child psychology to parent-focused work
How The Parenting MAP framework helps parents lead with confidence
The role of playfulness and connection in parenting
Overcoming fears and self-doubt to pursue meaningful work
The challenge of balancing professional and personal growth
How Eran’s personal experiences as a father shaped his work
Using a beta approach to create and test parenting resources
The impact of bringing peace and play into creative processes
Tools and books Eran recommends for parents on their journey

Transcript

You can find the transcript on the episode's web page by clicking here.

Eran's Bio & Resources

Eran is a clinical psychologist, a father of two, and a husband. Based in Tel Aviv, Israel, he runs a private practice and is passionate about helping parents transition from feeling confused and stressed to embracing a more confident and guiding role in their families. To further this mission, he created the Parenting MAP and the Apparently Parent podcast. His ultimate goal is to help as many parents as possible move from chaos to harmony and build lasting, meaningful relationships with their children.

Podcast: Apparently Parent
Resources: Books for parents and practitioners

Explore Zen Habits

Zen Habits Blog

Fearless Living Academy