Who are you and what’s your podcast about?

My name is J.Nichole Smith, but you can call me Nic. I’m an author, artist, brand architect, and colour + design psychology expert. The Joy First podcast is for founders, workaholics, perfectionists, and parents who would love to experience more joy in their home and work lives, but feel like they never seem to have time. Many of our cultures programme us to believe that joy is “extra” and must be earned. In the podcast I make the case for why joy is a birthright and an essential part of our well-being, as well as provide simple, actionable ways to find, choose, and share more joy each day… without it being just another thing added to the never-ending “to-do” list.

How did the idea for Joy First come about?

At work: Over the past 20 years as a brand architect I’ve specialized in building luxury and “happy” brands that centre “the good life”, so I’ve become an expert using joy and desire to sell (instead of the feelings of fear and unworthiness that most businesses use to drive purchase). It’s important to me that any project I work on is “joy first” – leaving people feeling better about themselves, not worse.

In life: I started my business in my early twenties and burnt out before I was 25. I had to navigate some really huge obstacles early-on, and so by 30 I had really internalized the importance of putting happiness over hustle. I mean, what’s the point of having a successful business if it ruins your health and relationships? I’ve supported hundreds if not thousands of entrepreneurs to do the same: ride the wild rollercoaster of running your own business by embracing the fear and learning to put joy first in life and work.

Applied Colour Psychology is mentioned a lot in the podcast – could you give our readers a brief explanation of what this is please?

In my work and life I’ve had two intertwined obsessions: as humans what is it that really makes us happy? For brands, what’s the straightest-line to making our impact more predictable?

I studied positive psychology, poured through all the self-help protocols, and personality profiles and completed a Masters in Marketing at one of London’s top business schools in search of answers. It wasn’t until I discovered Applied Colour Psychology that I had a huge breakthrough in both. Applied Colour Psychology is the crossover between Colour Physics (how colour works), Colour Psychology (how colour impacts us as humans), and Jungian Personality Analysis. The most basic colours can be divided into one of 4 groups, and so can all people. Research shows each group of people has a strong preference for each group of colour – and not only that – but these colours tend to be the most flattering for them aesthetically as well. Wild right?

It’s similar to the idea of having a “season” of colour that looks best on you, but importantly this analysis is based more on personality than skin tone… for me it’s so much more about carving out the space for more authentic self-expression, colour harmony, and joy – than it is about getting your exact shade of lipstick “right”. Want to find your “type” and colour group? Pop over and take the quiz on our website.

Can you remember which podcast was the first you ever listened to?

I believe the first ever podcast I listened to was Desert Island Discs. I’ve been obsessed for well over a decade (in fact we even had a Desert Island Discs themed wedding! I even was lucky enough to get Kristy Young to record an intro for the CD of ‘Desert Island Tracks’ that was our wedding favour for guests – it was a surprise for my husband – he didn’t know until we played it for him at our reception – super geeky cool!)

Which podcasts do you take inspiration from?

I love sensory-rich, investigative podcasts like Serial – I’m looking forward to expanding into higher production and richer storytelling like this as we grow. I also love shows where the hosts’ voice is totally enveloping – there was a show called Wellpreneur, which became Alchemy & Action that I just adored because I could listen to the host, Amanda Cook, for hours and hours (to be fair that’s probably why I got into Desert Island Discs – Kirsty Young’s voice is like velvet!)

Recently I’ve really got into the Autistic Culture podcast – I love a co-host show and I love how instead of focusing on the medical side of Autism, the hosts are sharing the shared culture of “Autistica” – it’s fascinating! The Martha Stewart episode totally sucked me in.

Who’s your dream guest for the podcast?

Right now, my dream guest would be Michelle Obama. I’d love to have a deep conversation with her about the joy crisis we’re facing now – and how to hold onto hope and focus on joy and impact in our little circles of influence when the world feels dark and out of control.

Which episode would you say is the perfect introduction to your podcast?

Maybe it’s boring, but the ‘why does joy matter’ episode (S1, E1) is the perfect place to start with Joy First – the first season takes a whirlwind tour through my favourite entry into joy first living and working: colour. How to understand your personality type and begin the journey of using your colours as tools for being more intentional about the way you want to be, be seen, and “do life”.

What are your plans for the podcast moving forward?

Season 2, coming up in March, is all about “joy first ways of working” – and we’ve got loads of interviews with mostly female founders, sharing what “joy first” work looks like at this stage of life and business. What they had to embrace, learn, let go of, and build in order to define and create lives and businesses that are successful and joyful.

Where can the Pod Bible readers find out more about you?

You can find us at joyfirstworld.com (podcast is here) find me on instagram @jnicholesmith or LinkedIn.

Listen to Joy First on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other popular podcast apps >>

This article was produced as part of a paid advertising package. To enquire about advertising with Pod Bible email info@podbiblemag.com

The post Joy First: Reclaiming happiness in a hustle-obsessed world appeared first on POD BIBLE.

Who are you and what’s your podcast about?

My name is Sneha Jain Kirloskar (SJK) and I am also the Founder & Trustee of an educational non-profit in India. I have also worked in my own energy metre company seeing its initiation, expansion, and strategic sale. In spite of having worked in social entrepreneurship and the energy business, my secret obsession, which is now out in the open, is “human energy”. I believe we have immense power within and this internal energy needs to be tapped into, as it shapes the way everything pans out in our lives.

I did my undergraduate in Economics & Finance from Leonard N. Stern School of Business, NYU & completed a Masters in Energy Policy from the University of Sussex, UK. I play the piano and write inspirational and empowering songs on human potential and energy. I recently released two singles called “Universe Within” and “Misaligning My Destiny” under ‘Lyrics by SJK’. I live in London with my husband and love being in the countryside.

My podcast, On the Journey with SJK, is an on-the go spiritual self-help podcast which deep dives, in a simplified manner, into how individual thoughts, words and actions are creative forces that shape our lives & outcomes. Whether you’re aiming for personal growth, seeking to improve your business or relationships, looking to overcome challenges in your life, or just hoping to create a better version of yourself, this podcast is for you. On the Journey is a compilation of different spiritual modalities, mixing it up with metaphysics thinking, the Law of Attraction and teachings from various spiritual gurus and manifestation experts.

Sneha Jain Kirloskar

Why did you decide to start On the Journey with SJK?

For years, I’ve pondered over life – is everything just a random event or are we shaping our lives and destinies? How powerful are we as creators? I studied a lot of Nichiren Buddhist principles, heard from some of the biggest life coaches and had certain experiences in my own life which led me to realise the power that we carry within. I started making my notes from different sources and I wanted to share that with the world, which is why I decided to make a podcast. I think being able to focus on spirituality is a big luxury and everyone may not have the time to get into it so deeply. Nevertheless, getting some basic principles right is important for us humans. Through On The Journey with SJK I want to provide my listeners with different techniques and tools that can help us shift our lives in meaningful and practical ways, and harness the energy source within.

What do you hope listeners will gain from listening to your podcast?

I want my listeners to gain practical tools they can use to improve their daily lives. Often people are overwhelmed by their circumstances and the thought of solving big problems can be intimidating. We often brush some of our bigger challenges under the carpet because we don’t feel like we have the tools to deal with the issue at hand. Through my podcast, I want to equip my listeners with some practical techniques and tools that helped me sort many situations in life. I want my listeners to really harness the power that they have within, and realise that often this energy comes not from some big change overnight, but from small incremental steady changes in thoughts, words and actions, that can be life-changing!

What sets your podcast apart from others in the same niche?

My podcast is a compilation from modern day and ancient spiritual philosophies (Hinduism and Nichiren Buddhism), spiritual gurus, life coaches, and manifestation experts. Over the years, I’ve studied different spiritual schools of thoughts and made notes of myself. My podcast is a way of sharing everything that I’ve learned, through reading and personal life lessons and experiences. It’s a compilation of different modalities but I’ve tried to create a podcast that can appeal to people of all ages, nationalities, cultures, and professions. By virtue of running a business and a social foundation, as well as having passions such as music and spirituality in my life, I believe I can connect with listeners from all kinds of backgrounds. Growing up in a big family in India, having studied in New York and Italy, and now living in London, I’ve interacted with so many personality types, which has enriched my understanding of people.

What was the first podcast you ever listened to?

To be honest, I was someone who always listened to speakers on YouTube such as Joe Dispenza, Louise Hay, Sister Shivani, Tony Robbins etc., but the first podcast I heard was Mel Robbins, I think.

Which podcasts do you take inspiration from?

Feel Better, Live More with Dr Rangan Chatterjee, Buddhability, etc.

As you look back on creating season one of On the Journey with SJK, what challenges have you faced, and how have you overcome them to keep the show growing?

This is my first season & to be honest, there was no big challenge because I felt that the content had been created by me for a very long time – it was just sitting in my notebooks and emails. But I guess compiling it all together in a way that would appeal to people at different stages of their lives was something that had to be kept in mind. I want to create content that people really benefit from, can relate to, and actually apply in their lives.

Which one podcast episode of your own means the most to you?

They are all very special to me. But in Episode 4 of my first season, I make the listeners do an easy exercise examining all aspects of their lives. This really puts life into perspective and gives us a tool to see where we operate with respect to everything. It is from this place of awareness, that we can actually start making positive changes.

Which one podcast episode (not of your own) has had the biggest impact/influence on you?

BK Sister Shivani’s episode on “How to Reprogram your Subconscious Mind”. She talks about how we consciously need to choose the thoughts that we record in our minds, and how that influences our energy and vibration.

What are your plans for the podcast moving forward?

I would now like to invite on my show, thought-leaders from different parts of the world to speak on spirituality, energy, manifestation, power of the mind, neuroscience etc.

I want On the Journey with SJK to be the go-to platform when someone wants a burst of positive energy and is looking for answers or practical tips on how to improve their lives.

Where can the Pod Bible readers find out more about you/the podcast?

I share a lot of positive quotes on Instagram so I would love to be followed on that. I also encourage my listeners to reach out to me by email and am happy to have a discussion with them if they are facing any kind of challenges or blocks and want a new way to think through things. In addition, I write inspirational lyrics on life and destiny and I’d like my listeners to hear my songs for a burst of positive energy!

Links

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/onthejourneywithsjk/

Website: www.onthejourneywithsjk.com

Email: info@onthejourneywithsjk.com

Songs:

Misaligning My Destiny: 

https://music.apple.com/gb/album/misaligning-my-destiny/1771502830?i=1771502978

Universe Within:

https://music.apple.com/gb/album/universe-within/1767222410?i=1767222419

Listen to On the Journey with SJK on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other popular podcast apps >>

This article was produced as part of a paid advertising package. To enquire about advertising with Pod Bible email info@podbiblemag.com

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We all hit slumps from time to time – stuck in the grind of our routines, we can start to feel a bit too comfortable, and maybe even a little stuck in life. But deep down, who doesn’t crave more? A better mindset, a fresh perspective, and continuous growth.

Learning is a lifelong process, and there is always room for personal growth. While books, courses, and articles offer guidance, I’ve found that listening is my favourite way to learn. Podcasts give me a chance to wind down, reflect on what’s happening in and around my life, and absorb new ideas at my own pace.

Self-improvement podcasts, in particular, provide fresh insights, practical advice, and inspiring stories that help lift us up. So if you are also looking to shake yourself out of the routine, and strive for personal growth, here are some of my favourite self-development podcasts to tune into.

The Breakout – Unleashing Personal Growth

“Get out of the box and into your life” That’s the tagline of The Breakout, hosted by talent and change experts Dr. Keri Ohlrich and Kelly Guenther. Every week they themselves learn from individuals who have gone through incredible change, sharing how you can access personal growth, increase your confidence, and make major moves in your life.

It’s an inspiring podcast that shows me change can come in dramatic shifts, or quiet steps, either way, good things happen when we push our limits.

If you prefer to read rather than listen, Dr. Keri Ohlrich and Kelly Guenther have just published a new book as well: Whatever the Hell You Want: An Escape Plan to Break Out of Life’s Little Boxes and Live Free from Expectations. Listen here >>

On the Table with Ashley

The best lessons come from when we push our boundaries and listen to new perspectives. Often we may feel stuck in our lives because we have only ever looked at things in one way, a way shaped by our own experiences and values. We may be scared to open up and talk about difficult things, this blocks our path to living to our highest potential.

On the Table with Ashley invites us to all sit down at a table and re-learn how to honour our differences, through compassion, and an open mind. Every episode brings a difficult topic to the forefront and brings on guests to discuss it from varying perspectives.

Re-learning what our minds have been stuck in is so important to our personal growth, and this podcast pushes us to change our minds and our hearts.

This season is focused on Death & Dying, a universal experience yet an often unspoken topic. Ashley’s guests discuss preparing for, talking about, and supporting others through end-of-life moments. It’s a heavy one, but a discussion I think we all need at some point in our lives. Listen here >>

On Purpose with Jay Shetty

If you’ve been around the self-improvement space already, you’ve probably heard the name Jay Shetty. A former monk turned bestselling author and life coach, he brings wisdom and purpose to every episode of On Purpose.

Each week, Jay interviews experts and celebrities who share their personal stories and strategies for living with intention, finding inner peace, and cultivating meaningful relationships.

The podcast reminds me that growth is a daily practice, and Jay’s soothing voice and thoughtful approach make complex ideas feel approachable. Listen here >>

The Art of Listening

We learn through connection, and the best way to connect is to listen and hold space for one another. Eileen Dunn’s podcast The Art of Listening reminds us of this week after week. Her interviews with experts in therapy give us a new perspective on the relations between people and the lessons we can learn through talk therapy. This is a great listen to learn more about human connection. Listen here >>

Sisters in Sobriety

At its core Sisters in Sobriety is a raw, honest look at life beyond alcohol. After both embracing sobriety, they share their personal journeys of recovery, exploring the ups and downs of life without drinking.

Well you may not consider yourself in need of a sobriety podcast, I promise there’s something in this show for everyone. No matter your relationship with alcohol currently, sisters-in-law Sonia Kahlon and Kathleen Killen, bring new and interesting takes that make us reflect, and be honest about how we face struggles in our lives. At the same time, they share fun and relatable conversations.

Each episode gets into topics like emotional sobriety, mindful living, and navigating social life alcohol-free, offering listeners a blend of support, inspiration, and humor.

Their candid conversations remind us that sobriety is not just about quitting alcohol, but about embracing a more mindful, empowered lifestyle. Listen here >>

Blue Sky

Hosted by Bill Burke, founder of The Optimism Institute, Blue Sky brings a great dose of inspiration and optimism to the week. In a world of constant bad news, Blue Sky shares the stories of leaders and big thinkers with a contagious sense of optimism.

This podcast invites us to lift our heads above the clouds and see the possibilities, even when things feel overwhelming. Bill’s conversations are often with individuals taking on challenges much bigger than the ones I face in my day-to-day, but they leave me reflecting on how a positive mindset can shape the way we tackle our own struggles, no matter how big or small. Listen here >>

The Whole Damn Pie!

If you’re feeling tired of settling for just a slice of life, listen in to The Whole Damn Pie hosted by Amalia Martino, founder of The Vida Agency. Amalia leads conversations that challenge us to think about what “the whole pie” even means – whether it’s health, success, personal growth, or leaving a lasting legacy. The podcast brings a lot of clarity: whether it’s finding balance and the fun in life, redefining our relationship with money, or even addressing equity and social justice. With Amalia’s relatable, down-to-earth approach, she shares her personal and professional experiences while learning from her guests along the way. Listen here >>

The Happiness Lab

If you’ve been living your life chasing the next big thing, thinking it will bring you happiness, you’re doing it all wrong. What does make us happy? Yale professor Dr. Laurie Santos started The Happiness Lab to tell us. She’s spent years studying the science of happiness, only to realize most of us aren’t seeking happiness in the best way. Through The Happiness Lab, Dr. Santos shares the latest scientific research and inspiring (and surprising!) stories that will change the way you think about happiness. Listen here >>

Life Kit

Need some practical advice to help you face this challenge of being human? Listen to LifeKit (and check out their entire archive). LifeKit by NPR is hosted by Marielle Segarra, and covers everything from sleep strategies and budgeting tips to parenting hacks and beyond. Episodes are only 20 minutes or shorter, so easily fit into your day. They feature conversations with experts who share clear tips to help you tackle life’s hurdles with confidence. Listen here >>

Talks with Dr Shafer

What I love most about Talks with Dr. Shafer is her incredibly soothing voice. It reels me in and lets me relax alongside the show. Her thoughtful approach makes each episode feel like a meaningful conversation with a wise friend.

Talks with Dr. Shafer invites us all to reclaim our stories and envision a brighter future. Hosted by Dr. Shafer Stedron, MD, this show blends her expertise as a physician, life coach, and author to create a truly calming and insightful experience. Each week we hear the personal journey of a guest, and learn from their experience of overcoming obstacles and striving for a fulfilling life. From addressing mental and emotional well-being to exploring the intersection of health and personal growth, this podcast offers a safe space for reflection and connection. Listen here >>

This article was provided by Lower Street as part of a paid advertising package. To enquire about advertising with Pod Bible email info@podbiblemag.com

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Who are you and what’s your podcast about?

Keri: I’m Dr. Keri Ohlrich, PhD in Human Development and Organizational Systems. I specialize in change management, HR processes, and coaching, with experience leading HR transformations for start-ups to Fortune 500 companies. I also hold certifications in Prosci® and iPEC CPC.

Kelly: I’m Kelly Guenther, and I hold a Master of Education, am an iPEC® Certified Professional Coach (CPC), as well as a certified Prosci® change management practitioner, and I specialize in holistic talent and people development, leadership training, and change management.

We founded Abbracci Group, where we work with individuals and companies to forge their own unique paths, offering expertise in coaching, strategic talent management, and people development. But we wanted to go beyond the HR space, and help ordinary people break free from all of life’s heavy expectations, by having real, raw (and funny) conversations with guests who’ve defied all of that – whether they’ve changed careers, overcome personal struggles, or challenged societal norms.

What’s the first podcast you ever listened to?

Keri: Honestly, I can’t remember the exact first podcast I ever listened to, but it was probably Bullseye with Jesse Thorn. I’ve love how Jesse has this gift for interviewing creative people in such a thoughtful way. The stories are always rich and inspiring – it’s the kind of podcast that makes you think and keeps you hooked at the same time.

Kelly: For me, it was This American Life on NPR. It’s such a classic! The storytelling is top-notch, and they dive into such a wide variety of human experiences. It was one of the first podcasts that made me realize how powerful the medium could be for sharing stories that connect people.

Why did you decide to start podcasting in the first place?

Keri: The idea for the podcast came to us during the pandemic, when we realized it was time to evolve from the HR-focused webinars we’d been offering. With our shared love of podcasts we knew we wanted to create something that went beyond the HR space. Over the years, we’ve heard thousands of stories from people who’ve inspired us in profound ways, and we realized there was a bigger conversation to be had about breaking free from expectations and living authentically.

Our podcast was born out of that desire to dig deeper and share meaningful content that reflects the real-life struggles and victories everyday people experience when they decide to take control of their lives.

Kelly: It’s been an amazing way for us to connect with people outside the traditional HR world and highlight the stories of those who’ve pushed boundaries and broken out of the boxes in which they find themselves. We’re passionate about these conversations because they’re not just inspiring – they’re real, relatable, and often life-changing.

Which podcasts do you take inspiration from?

Keri: I draw so much inspiration from Bullseye with Jesse Thorn. Jesse is a phenomenal interviewer who has this incredible ability to dig deep and get personal with his guests. The conversations are rich, authentic, and I love learning from all the creative minds he brings on the show. It’s not just about their success stories but the real, behind-the-scenes journeys that inspire me.

I’m also a huge fan of Pivot with Scott Galloway and Kara Swisher. Their dynamic is unmatched – sharp, insightful, and they push you to think differently about business, tech, and culture. Plus, they’re not afraid to challenge each other, and I find their banter as engaging as their analysis.

Oh, and I can’t forget Hidden Brain. It taps into the science and psychology geek in me! The show takes complex human behaviors and breaks them down in ways that are fascinating and eye-opening. I’m always left with a new perspective.

Kelly: For me, it’s SmartLess all the way. Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett are hilarious and self-deprecating about how little they claim to know about podcasting. But their authenticity and vulnerability with each other, combined with their humour and incredible guest lineup, make it pure escapism. It’s a great reminder that we don’t have to take ourselves too seriously to have real, meaningful conversations.

I also really appreciate The Daily from the New York Times. In 20 minutes, it gives me a quick, yet insightful dose of news. It’s focused, gets straight to the point, and gives you just enough information without overwhelming you – perfect for staying informed when life gets hectic!

Who’s your dream guest for the podcast?

Keri: Oh, we love this question! Our podcast is all about people who have broken the rules and shattered expectations, so, naturally, we’re drawn to guests who embody that spirit. I would absolutely love to have RuPaul on the show. As a die-hard RuPaul’s Drag Race fan, I admire how RuPaul has consistently given a bold, unapologetic middle finger to societal norms and the establishment. His ability to not just survive but thrive in a world that tried to box him in is nothing short of inspiring.

Kelly: I’m a massive Serena Williams fan. Having played tennis, I’m in awe of Serena’s sheer power, grit, and determination. Serena didn’t just break out of the box – she smashed it to pieces. From her dominance on the court to her advocacy for women, mothers, and athletes, she’s the ultimate example of breaking through barriers, both personal and societal. Having Serena on would allow us to have an incredible conversation about resilience, success, and what it means to chart your own course.

RuPaul and Serena Williams – two trailblazers who’ve redefined what’s possible. Dream guests for sure!

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnt so far as a podcaster?

Keri: The biggest lesson I’ve learned as a podcaster? It’s the incredible power of storytelling and just how resilient people really are. Hearing the journeys our guests have been through, their struggles and triumphs – it’s a reminder of how much strength and courage humans have.

But I’ll also be the first to say, podcasting is hard work! It’s a true commitment, and most of the time, it’s not about money. It’s about making an impact, knowing that your words are landing in someone’s ears, halfway around the world. That’s still mind-blowing to us – how many people are tuning in from all corners of the globe, all wanting to break out of their own boxes.

Kelly: One of the most important things I’ve learned is the art of truly listening. Podcasting demands an intense focus – you have to be fully present with your guest, completely in the moment. When someone’s sharing a raw, vulnerable story, it’s an incredible honour to hold that space for them. It’s a responsibility I don’t take lightly, and that deep connection is what makes this medium so powerful. You’re right there with them, and so is the audience. That’s the magic of podcasting!

Which episode would you say is the perfect introduction to your podcast?

Keri: Ah, it’s like choosing a favourite child – but let’s be real, we all secretly have one!

When we look back at the episodes that really stick with us, Robert Markowitz and Celeste Headlee’s conversations immediately come to mind. Robert’s journey from lawyer to clown (yes, you heard that right!) is such a powerful example of breaking free from the expectations to follow a “respectable” career path. Instead, he chose something unconventional, something that spoke to him – and it’s such a refreshing and inspiring story about what it means to redefine success on your own terms.

Then there’s Celeste Headlee. Her episode challenges how we think about time, work, and the constant pressure to be productive. We still laugh when we talk about her saying, “We are not knives,” in response to the hustle culture’s obsession with “the grind.” Celeste really opened our eyes to how deeply ingrained societal and capitalist expectations are, and how liberating it is to question them.

Both episodes perfectly capture the spirit of The Breakout: part humor, part personal journey, part life lessons, and a whole lot of “you can do this!” They’re a great starting point for anyone wanting to understand what we’re all about.

You have a new book coming out, Whatever the Hell You Want, is that linked to the podcast? Please tell us more about it.

Kelly: Absolutely! Our upcoming book, Whatever the Hell You Want: An Escape Plan to Break Out of Life’s Little Boxes and Live Free from Expectations, is deeply inspired by The Breakout podcast. The stories, wisdom, and lessons from our incredible guests, combined with our more than twenty years of experience in coaching and organizational change, compelled us to write this book.

At its core, this book is about freedom: the freedom to redefine what success and fulfillment mean to you. We all deserve to experience true happiness, peace, and authenticity, and this can only happen when we take control of our lives, unapologetically.

Keri: As best friends and business partners, we bring a sense of humour, compassion, and actionable steps to the process. We’re also thrilled to introduce our BREAK Change Model, which we’ve refined from both our personal experiences and work with clients. It’s a practical, empowering framework to help readers.

Like the podcast, our book offers a roadmap to freedom and fulfillment. We’re so excited to share it with the world!

Where can the Pod Bible readers find out more about you?

At the Abbracci Group website or the podcast website. We’re also on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn and YouTube and you can pre-order our book Whatever the Hell You Want: An Escape Plan to Break Out of Life’s Little Boxes and Live Free from Expectations here.

Listen to The Breakout on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other popular podcast apps >>

This article was provided by Lower Street as part of a paid advertising package. To enquire about advertising with Pod Bible email info@podbiblemag.com

The post The Breakout: Redefining success on your own terms appeared first on POD BIBLE.

Who are you and what’s your podcast about?

I’m Anthony Walsh, the host of The Anthony Walsh Podcast. My show delves deep into the lives and journeys of peak performers from various fields, including artists, scientists, athletes, and educators. The podcast focuses on the concept of River-Jumping, which involves transferring knowledge and methods across different domains to spur creativity, innovation, and problem-solving. Through this lens, I explore the values and characteristics that drive excellence, such as curiosity, commitment to daily excellence, and the pursuit of mentorship, health, and happiness. My goal is to provide listeners with actionable insights and fresh perspectives to help them excel in their own pursuits.

What’s the first podcast you ever listened to?

Zen & The Art of Triathlon was a podcast I discovered well before Apple Podcasts even existed. Back then, I used to download it on LimeWire. From the moment I started listening, I was hooked. It felt like I was getting an intimate look into the life of an athlete. I learned vicariously through his mistakes and celebrated his victories, gaining valuable insights along the way.

Why did you decide to start podcasting in the first place?

I initially qualified as a lawyer, but within the first month, I felt like the walls were closing in on me. It just wasn’t me, even after spending seven years in law school. When I received a contract offer from a French cycling team, I jumped at the opportunity and spent a few years as a full-time cyclist. However, the sport’s dangers eventually made me realise that the risk no longer justified the reward.

When I returned to Dublin, I knew I didn’t want to go back to working 60-hour weeks in law. I decided to start my own business, thinking I could front-load the work and eventually have more passive time to enjoy the things I love, like cycling. But one business turned into two, and before I knew it, I was running four companies, working over 70 hours a week, gaining weight, and feeling unhappy.

A friend who mentors me in business advised me to shut everything down. It was like playing a computer game and making the wrong move – I just pulled the plug and started again. I’ve always believed in the idea that you are who you surround yourself with, so I began reaching out to authors and academics I admired, hiring them for consultations. After each session, I’d share the key takeaways with a WhatsApp group I created, all aimed at rediscovering health and happiness since I had lost my way.

The momentum grew, and the WhatsApp group eventually hit its member limit. It became clear that many others were also struggling to find their way, searching for health and happiness. Realising the need for a broader platform, I decided to evolve the WhatsApp group into a podcast. The Anthony Walsh Podcast was born as a way for listeners to join me on this journey towards health and happiness, offering a space for shared learning and growth.

Which podcasts do you take inspiration from?

I really admire the Colin & Samir podcast. It offers a playbook for small creators to build their own podcasts, breaking down the steps and strategies in an accessible way. What I particularly love is how it removes the barriers of access to some great minds. For instance, I’d never have the opportunity to sit down with the YouTube CEO, but listening to this show makes me feel like I am. It provides valuable insights and feels like a masterclass in content creation and storytelling.

Who’s your dream guest for the podcast?

My dream guest for the podcast would be my dad. I think I’d have a better chance of getting Joe Rogan, but I would cherish 60 minutes of undistracted time with my dad to ask him about his regrets, life, dreams, and lessons. He’s a man I admire more than any other, and having that deep, meaningful conversation with him would be incredibly special to me.

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnt so far as a podcaster?

The biggest lesson I’ve learned as a podcaster is that no matter how big the star, they’re just a normal person with hopes, dreams, and fears. I loved speaking with Valtteri Bottas in episode 2. It was eye-opening to see that even someone at the pinnacle of their field shares the same human experiences and emotions as the rest of us. This realisation has made my interviews more relatable and enriching, as it underscores the universal aspects of our journeys.

Which episode would you say is the perfect introduction to your podcast?

Episode 1 with John McAvoy is the perfect introduction to my podcast. John was born into a famous crime family and, at a young age, found himself in a maximum-security prison serving a life sentence. Sport saved him – he broke world records in rowing while still in prison. This episode was a very deliberate starting point for the podcast because sport has played such an important role in my own life. John’s story also offers powerful lessons of rebirth and the possibility of a fresh start, no matter your circumstances.

Where can the Pod Bible readers find out more about you?

https://anthonywalshpodcast.komi.io/

Listen to The Anthony Walsh Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and other popular podcast apps >>

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Who are you and what’s your podcast about? 

I am Hannah Rankine and my podcast is called The Han Jan Ran Show (Han Jan Ran being the first three letters of my three names!). The podcast is a celebration of audacity and defying the status quo to create positive change within or for the greater good.

What was the first podcast you ever listened to? 

It’s hard to think that far back as I am a certified pod-oholic but I think it must be Guys We F****d, which I was put on to by a fabulously audacious friend of mine.

Why did you decide to start podcasting in the first place? 

My primary school report called me a ‘motor-mouth’ so maybe I was always destined to podcast! Truthfully though, I started because of two reasons. Firstly, because it was a creative solution to calm me after a health scare. I’ve had a number of chronic illnesses sadly. The first one led me to do a Masters of Fine Art. This year I was diagnosed with Epilepsy after having Covid-19. Taking time off work to recover is when I launched the pod. I have found that creativity cures a lot of ailments. Secondly, because powerful conversations leave me feeling so incredibly driven, creative and ambitious and that is such a wonderful effect that can come from impactful communication. I wanted to use that transaction of ideas and experiences to offer that feeling up to others.

Which podcasts do you take inspiration from? 

I have a running joke with my family and best friend that I keep comparing my show to Michelle Obama’s. I only mean that we both navigate serious and emotional topics with a friendly and fun spirit, NOT that I am as poised, eloquent or as knowledgeable as the former First Lady… but you know… one day. (I can feel my brother eye-rolling right now).

The Echo Chamber Podcast by Jade and Ez. They give an honest take on contemporary issues and share the reality of their experiences as Black British women in a largely problematic society. I respect their authenticity deeply.

Race and Gender Unfiltered by Daniel Edmund. Daniel is an exquisitely, beautiful soul and his tender perspective on the human experience is inspiring to me.

Who’s your dream guest for the podcast? 

Can I say Michelle?

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnt so far as a podcaster? 

I will resist talking about learning how to produce a show and say that everything great that I have learnt has been from my guests and my listeners. And that is to question everything and that self-love is the most radical and punk thing a person can do.

Which episode would you say is the perfect introduction to your podcast? 

Ah! You’re making me choose between my babies! 

Episode 3 with Ciaran Thapar really moved me and gives a good idea of the range of topics the show covers. I am told that Episode 14 & 20 with my mum and Evelyn Willing will make you laugh and cry but I also think they are a good way to get to know me, your doting host!

I just launched Season Two and am very proud of the second episode with Aleks Trkulja, a sex therapist and mental health counsellor. So… take your pick?!

Where can the Pod Bible readers find out more about you? 

You can start at Episode 1… I’m only joking. Come find me on Instagram @hanjanran and @thehanjanranshow. I’m pretty active and (annoyingly) verbose so you’ll find plenty out. I try on Twitter but forget it exists for the most part…

Listen to The Han Jan Ran Show on Spotify, or all other platforms.

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