The Boyling Point

Michael Boyle, LMFT, CDBT

No gaslighting, no denial, all heart with appropriate doses of grit, compassion, and humor, this podcast is about how to cultivate joyful excellence by design even if, aside from, and especially because bad stuff happens.

Episodes

  1. Stealing Their Joy: How Kids Become Perfect Consumers

    16/02/2025

    Stealing Their Joy: How Kids Become Perfect Consumers

    Stealing Their Joy: How Kids Become Perfect Lifelong Consumers that always need something outside themselves to feel okay. Only, it doesn't work. www.alltogether.academy Michael Boyle discusses the importance of balancing understanding the ubiquity of "survival mode", emphasizing the need for resilience, courage, and joy. He highlights the cultural pendulum swing between denial and overwhelm, advocating for a middle ground of open-heartedness and grit. Boyle addresses the mental health crisis in children, particularly screen addiction, urging parents to address their own addictions first. He stresses the importance of discipline, self-regulation, and the practice of "extra and open attention" to cultivate joy and aliveness. Boyle calls for a collective effort to support children in developing resilience and coping mechanisms beyond screen dependency. Action Items Spread awareness about the impact of screen addiction on children's mental health. Develop more discipline and say "no" 25 times a day to build the habit. Try the "extra and open attention" practice and share it with others. Introduction and Purpose of the Podcast Michael Boyle introduces himself as the host of the podcast and explains the mission of Together Academy, which is to help the community hardwire courage, resilience, contribution, and joy. He mentions various resources available on the Together Academy website, including the free newsletter, blogs, books, and the 30-day reset program. Michael encourages listeners to join the Joyful Excellence Mastermind Community for more comprehensive support and tools. He sets the stage for the episode by mentioning that the topic is something he is working on in his personal life and that he will be re-recording the podcast due to an initial recording with the wrong energy. From Surviving to Thriving Michael discusses the cultural pendulum swing between denial and overwhelm in dealing with challenges and stress. He emphasizes the importance of balancing kindness and consideration with the legitimacy of challenges. Michael explains that most people are living in survival mode, which is not conducive to joy, love, or creativity. He highlights the need for tools and skills to transform survival mode into thriving mode, which requires courage, resilience, and support. The Impact of Survival Mode on Mental Health Michael elaborates on how survival mode is triggered easily by everyday stressors and how it does not allow for joy or long-term immunity. He discusses the importance of making time for disciplines that promote health and resilience, such as meditation, breathwork, and good sleep hygiene. Michael shares a personal anecdote about his own struggles with screen addiction and the impact it has on his mental health. He stresses the need for deliberate, dedicated efforts to overcome cultural tendencies towards survival mode and to cultivate thriving mode. The Role of Screen Addiction in the Mental Health Crisis Michael shifts the focus to the mental health crisis among children and the role of screen addiction. He urges parents to address their own screen addiction before addressing their children's, as children often model their parents' behavior. Michael shares his own struggles with screen addiction and the withdrawal symptoms he experiences. He emphasizes the need for powerful action to address screen addiction in children, as it is becoming more prevalent and severe. The Importance of Attachment and Self-Soothing Michael explains the concept of attachment theory and how it relates to children's ability to self-soothe. He discusses how children who are given screens too often develop a neurobiological attachment to screens instead of their primary caregivers. Michael highlights the negative impact of numbing discomfort and anxiety through screens, which prevents children from developing the capacity to self-soothe. He emphasizes the importance of feeling discomfort to heal it and the negative consequences of numbing it. The Pleasure-Pain Balance and Discipline Michael discusses the pleasure-pain balance in the brain and how constant pleasure leads to endogenous pain. He explains how numbing pain leads to more pain and the importance of saying no to constant stimulation. Michael shares his family's motto, "Discipline is delicious," and how saying no can produce endogenous pleasure. He emphasizes the need for discipline and the benefits of choosing hard things to do, which produce feel-good chemicals and resilience. The Role of Boredom and Self-Regulation Michael discusses the importance of boredom and self-regulation for children's development. He shares his experience of driving long hours with his family and the benefits of being bored and self-regulating. Michael emphasizes that being in one's own experience is inherently good and that constant stimulation prevents children from discovering this. He highlights the negative impact of always needing external stimulation and the importance of cultivating aliveness and openness. Practicing Extra and Open Attention Michael introduces the practice of extra and open attention as a way to cultivate joy and aliveness. He provides a guided practice for listeners to try, focusing on the sensations of aliveness in the body and the space around it. Michael explains that this practice helps to develop a state of aliveness and openness, which leads to joy, openness, love, kindness, and awareness. He emphasizes that this practice is a skill that requires cultivation and that the freedom and empowerment of feeling good in one's own skin is a valuable gift. Conclusion and Call to Action Michael concludes by encouraging listeners to pass on the message and to work together to change the cultural tide towards thriving. He emphasizes the importance of community support and the challenges of swimming against the tide alone. Michael reiterates the need for discipline, challenge, and resilience in both children and adults. He ends with a call to choose love and to support each other in cultivating joy and aliveness.

    44 min
  2. YOU Are the Power Point of Change

    02/02/2025

    YOU Are the Power Point of Change

    Unique insights and motivation about the opportunity of the moment. YOU are the Power Point of Change The discussion emphasizes the concept of the "PowerPoint of change," where individuals consciously choose to think, feel, and act differently from their usual habits. It highlights the importance of adopting a "grace and ease" mindset, focusing on the next easiest action, and not succumbing to cultural pressures like "shoulds" and "musts." The speaker advocates for thinking beyond one's body, environment, and time, suggesting small, deliberate actions to improve feelings and outcomes. Consistency and persistence are crucial, and the approach aims to foster sustainable, positive change without struggle. Action Items Follow the grace and ease question and find the next easiest thing you are willing to do in the direction you value and choose. Recognize that you are the opportunity of the moment and take responsibility for your thoughts, feelings, and actions. Persist in thinking, feeling, and acting differently, even when it's challenging. Outline PowerPoint of Change: Introduction and Concept Speaker 1 introduces the concept of the PowerPoint of change, emphasizing the importance of growth and challenging oneself. The PowerPoint of change is described as a moment when one chooses to think, feel, and act differently from their usual habits. Speaker 1 highlights the importance of kindness and grace, suggesting that change should not be a struggle but a natural process. The concept of the grace and ease question is introduced, encouraging individuals to focus on the next easiest action they are willing to take. Challenging the Status Quo and Embracing Change Speaker 1 discusses the mental and emotional vice of cultural expectations like "should have, could have, would have, ought to, must." The grace and ease question is reiterated as a tool to help individuals think differently and take small, manageable steps. Speaker 1 explains that individuals are not their arising conditions or reactive personalities but are the opportunity of the moment. The importance of thinking differently than one's body's reactions is emphasized, using the example of not wanting to get out of bed. Breaking Down Actions and Thinking Beyond the Body Speaker 1 breaks down the act of getting out of bed into smaller, manageable steps to illustrate thinking beyond the body's reactions. The principle of thinking greater than the body is explained, leading to improved feelings and actions. Speaker 1 emphasizes the importance of being creative rather than reactive, using the example of not wanting to get out of bed. The concept of changing the entire cake (i.e., one's life) from the bottom up is introduced, contrasting it with positive thinking movements, "icing on a shit-cake". Creating a Positive Environment and Acting Differently Speaker 1 discusses the importance of creating a positive environment by not participating in gossiping or complaining. The idea of thinking and acting greater than one's environment is introduced, encouraging individuals to shift conversations or leave negative environments. Speaker 1 explains that thinking differently can lead to feeling and acting differently, resulting in better outcomes. The concept of response-ability is introduced, emphasizing the ability to respond and take the next easiest action. Thinking Beyond Time and Embracing the Timeless Speaker 1 discusses the importance of thinking beyond time and not being reactive to the pace of change. The concept of taking powerful actions and looking for opportunities, even when things are not happening as fast as desired, is introduced. Speaker 1 emphasizes the importance of thinking, feeling, and acting greater than time, leading to better results. The idea of being the opportunity of the moment and taking deliberate, dedicated actions is reiterated. Consistency and Persistence in Change Speaker 1 acknowledges the challenge of consistency and persistence in maintaining a positive mindset and taking small steps. The importance of falling in love with the living moment and finding inspiration in the challenge to think differently is emphasized. Speaker 1 encourages individuals to focus on the timeless, making the next best, easiest step they are willing to take. The concept of jolka (joy, openness, love, kindness, awareness) is introduced, highlighting the benefits of small, consistent actions. Final Thoughts and Encouragement Speaker 1 reiterates the importance of thinking, feeling, and acting differently to improve one's life. The concept of the PowerPoint of change is summarized, emphasizing the importance of small, manageable steps. Speaker 1 encourages individuals to continue taking small steps, even when it is challenging, to open up to the miraculous. The meeting concludes with a reminder to focus on the timeless and make the next best, easiest step, leading to sustainable, positive change.

    18 min
  3. THE Longevity Hack No One is Talking About

    26/01/2025

    THE Longevity Hack No One is Talking About

    THE Longevity Hack No One is Talking About Michael Boyle discusses a longevity hack related to the brain's survival mode and the most common reason why people are "pooped and confused." He emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting trauma while avoiding the extremes of denial and over-emphasis. Boyle explains how the brain stores trauma memories, leading to constant triggers and energy drain. He suggests a practical, methodical approach that is not talk therapy-based to clear these triggers and enhance thriving. Boyle also introduces the concept of "joy as activism," advocating for proactive engagement and positive energy to transform survival mode into a more resourceful state, benefiting personal well-being and societal impact. Outline Introduction and Podcast Purpose Speaker 1 introduces himself as Michael Boyle and welcomes listeners to the Boyling Point podcast. The podcast aims to help the community hardwire courage, resilience, contribution, and joy. Michael encourages listeners to join the Joyful Excellence Mastermind Community for more support and tools. He mentions other resources like the free newsletter, blogs, books, and the 30-day reset program available on the Together Academy website. New Microphone and Longevity Hack Introduction Michael shares that he is using a new microphone, gifted by his wife, a professional musician. He introduces the topic of the episode: a longevity hack related to trauma. Michael begins by discussing a conversation with his brother about trauma and its prevalence in today's society. He emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting trauma while also acknowledging the dangers of considering trauma as unresolvable. Science Disclaimer and Trauma Discussion Michael provides a science disclaimer, acknowledging the complexity of the brain and the limitations of simplified explanations. He discusses the challenges of using scientific terms symbolically and the potential for dogmatic thinking in science. Michael shares his belief that science is constantly evolving and that current knowledge will often be outdated in the future. He transitions to discussing the extremes of trauma, including denial and the tendency to stay stuck in trauma symptoms. Healing and Coping Mechanisms Michael emphasizes the importance of good coping tools and mechanisms but argues for the possibility of outgrowing trauma completely. He shares his experience as a trauma therapist, working with various types of trauma, including combat veterans and sexual abuse survivors. Michael asserts that it is possible to completely heal from trauma and thrive without any further negative symptoms. State-Dependent Triggering and Survival Mode Michael explains how the brain stores memories related to trauma, making them easily triggerable. He describes the concept of state-dependent triggering, where small fragments of past experiences can trigger strong reactions in the present. Michael uses the example of a car accident to illustrate how seemingly insignificant details can trigger panic attacks years later. He discusses the constant activation of the survival mode, whether one identifies as have been "traumatized," and its impact on daily life, using traffic and household tasks as examples. Longevity Hack: Clearing Trauma Fragments Michael introduces the longevity hack of clearing trauma fragments to free up energy and improve overall well-being. He compares the brain's storage of trauma to a cluttered office, emphasizing the need to clear out sticky notes and reminders. Michael explains the role of "thriving mode" in storing memories in a more organized and less triggerable manner. He discusses the importance of creating an environment where the nervous system can heal naturally through lifestyle choices and practices. "Neural Sweep" and Sleep Michael explains the concept of the "neural sweep", a process that occurs during sleep and helps clear out fragments of unprocessed information. (Walker, M. P. (2017). Why we sleep: Unlocking the power of sleep and dreams. Scribner.) He highlights the importance of consistent sleep routines to ensure the neural sweep occurs effectively. Michael discusses the impact of alcohol and irregular sleep schedules on the neural sweep and overall brain health. He emphasizes the benefits of getting deep sleep and entering REM sleep for the physiological resolution of trauma. Joy as Activism Michael introduces the concept of joy as activism, encouraging listeners to engage in positive actions and maintain a resourceful state. He acknowledges the challenges of maintaining a positive outlook in times of perceived threat or trauma. Michael emphasizes the importance of consciously consuming media and using tools to transform survival mode into a more optimal state. He discusses the role of joyful activism in creating a positive impact on personal well-being and the world, while also acknowledging important distinctions about privilege and risk and how it is easier for some to embrace this approach than others.  Tool for Heart-Focused Awareness Michael shares a simple tool from the Heart Math Institute to help listeners connect with their heart energy and improve well-being. He instructs listeners to place their hands over their heart and bring their attention to the sensations in the heart area. Michael suggests focusing on appreciation rather than gratitude to find genuine and sincere feelings of appreciation. He encourages listeners to think of someone else who could benefit from their positive energy and to send a wish for their thriving. Conclusion and Invitation Michael wraps up the episode by reiterating the importance of thriving to heal and the benefits of joyful activism. He invites listeners to reach out with questions, requests for topics, or invitations to speak at events. Michael expresses his commitment to helping others thrive and contribute positively to the world. He ends the episode with a reminder to choose love and a wish for listeners to thrive.

    48 min
  4. Death to Who You Were

    19/01/2025

    Death to Who You Were

    This is the "advanced curriculum" for people who have cleaned up their psychological issues and are ready to "do the work" to thrive beyond reason. You can read an article I wrote on this topic here:  https://alltogetheracademy.mykajabi.com/blog/death Episode 2 - Death To Who You Were - 1/19/25 Michael Boyle hosts "The Boiling Point" podcast, aiming to inspire and empower listeners with practical tools for resilience and joy. In this episode, he discusses the importance of authenticity, sharing a joy exercise, and the concept of reverse engineering happiness. He recounts overcoming health challenges by gradually embracing dancing, which led to improved well-being. Boyle emphasizes the need to move beyond victimhood (which he differentiates from recognizing the validity of trauma and having been "victimized" by forces beyond one's control) advocating for proactive steps to create happiness. He introduces "Energy of Mind," a secular spiritual practice, and highlights the importance of personal transformation, aiming to help listeners become all-loving individuals.   Action Items Practice the "smile UP energy" exercise - imagine your joy rising up into a cloud and wonder when it will rain back down. Reverse engineer desired outcomes by taking small, manageable steps in that direction, rather than waiting for perfect conditions. Be willing to "die to who you were" - let go of past identities, mentalities, behaviors, and perceptions to create a new, more empowered way of being. Take responsibility for one's thoughts, feelings, and actions, rather than blaming external circumstances, which even if "accurate" (blaming) is dis-empowering and counter-productive.  Outline Introduction and Podcast Goals Michael Boyle introduces the podcast, "The Boiling Point," and its purpose to inspire and empower listeners with practical ideas and tools. He mentions the Joyful Excellence Mastermind Community and other resources available on the All Together Academy website. Michael encourages listeners to reach out with questions or requests for topics they would like to hear discussed. He emphasizes the goal of making life a place worth loving through the podcast. Episode 2 Introduction and Podcast Format Michael welcomes listeners to the second episode and mentions his commitment to releasing one podcast per week. He shares that he is recording with a horse voice due to a winter cold and mentions the positive feedback he has received. Michael explains that the podcast is a minimally viable product and will improve over time. He decides to speak spontaneously rather than using scripts to make the content more authentic and enjoyable. Joyful Excellence Exercise Michael introduces an exercise focused on energy of mind, a secular and spiritual practice for practical people. He asks listeners to consider something that brings them joy and to notice the images and sensations that arise in their body. The exercise involves smiling and imagining joy rising up through the body and gathering in a cloud beyond imagination. Michael encourages listeners to look out for being surprised by joy in future moments and to continue this practice. Reverse Engineering Happiness Michael shares an example of reverse engineering happiness by asking questions in meditation. He describes his struggle with health challenges and how he decided to reverse engineer happiness by focusing on what would make him happy. Michael explains the concept of the grace and ease question, which helps identify the next easiest thing to do to move toward happiness. He shares his journey from dancing in private to dancing in public and eventually salsa dancing with his wife, highlighting the importance of small steps. Death to Who You Were Michael introduces the concept of "death to who you were" and its relevance to the Joyful Excellence Mastermind Community. He discusses the importance of moving beyond victim stories and the challenges of validating wound stories in a dysfunctional way. Michael emphasizes the need to take responsibility for one's state of being and to reverse engineer happiness rather than waiting for external circumstances to change. He shares his experience of finding joy beyond circumstances and the importance of creating a future that one values. Energy of Mind and Secular Spiritual Work Michael introduces the fourth limb of his work, "Energy of Mind," which focuses on practical, secular spiritual practices. He explains the importance of validating and accepting one's past while focusing on the present moment. Michael discusses the need to master new ways of thinking, feeling, and acting to embody a new personal reality. He emphasizes the importance of dying to the old self and being reborn as a new, more loving and joyful person. Conclusion and Final Thoughts Michael concludes the episode by encouraging listeners to practice the smile exercise and to radiate joy into the unknown. He reminds listeners that they are empowered to conjure up images and sensations that nourish them. Michael wishes listeners blessings, love, and joy, and encourages them to help precipitate these feelings in their lives. He ends the episode with a reminder to choose loving and thriving, all together.

    35 min
  5. How to Find Joy Even if You Have a Hole in Your Bucket

    12/01/2025

    How to Find Joy Even if You Have a Hole in Your Bucket

    Our first-ever podcast! Find out more at www.alltogether.academy Episode 1: How to Find Joy Even if You Have a Hole in Your Bucket!  Michael Boyle, host of the "Boyling Point" podcast, discusses the mission of the All Together Academy to foster courage, resilience, contribution, and joy. He shares his personal journey of overcoming a six-inch hole in his diaphragm that led to all sorts of other complications, which he discovered after 23 years. Despite his health challenges, he emphasizes the importance of finding joy and gratitude. Boyle introduces the Joyful Excellence Mastermind Community, a comprehensive program offering tools and support for mental health and optimal performance. He highlights the significance of internal joy and love as foundational for external success and well-being. Action Items Check out the "Joyful Excellence Mastermind Community" at the All Together Academy website (www.alltogether.academy). Provide feedback or request the speaker to cover specific topics on a future podcast. Consider reaching out to the speaker for public speaking or keynote address opportunities. Outline Introduction to the Boiling Point Podcast Michael Boyle introduces the Boiling Point podcast, emphasizing its goal to inspire and empower listeners with practical ideas and tools. He mentions the Joyful Excellence Mastermind Community and other resources available on the All Together Academy website. Michael explains the concept of a minimally viable product and the focus on momentum and refinement. He shares the inspiration behind the podcast name, influenced by a conversation with a venture capitalist and executive coaching client. Personal Story and Inspiration Michael recounts his journey with a high-achieving, creative venture capitalist who encouraged him to leverage his story. He describes the physical condition he faced for 23 years, a six-inch hole in his diaphragm, and the impact on his health. Michael details his extensive efforts in healing through various methods, including diet, nutrition, exercise, and alternative therapies. He reflects on the irony of his condition and how it led him to become an expert in healing and thriving. Discovery and Surgery Michael shares the moment of acute pain during a meditation retreat that led to the discovery of the hole in his diaphragm. He describes the surgery and the unexpected challenges post-surgery, including a chest tube procedure while awake. Michael discusses the emotional and physical struggles during recovery, including a period of severe depression. He emphasizes the importance of finding joy and gratitude even in the face of pain and adversity. Joy and Healing Michael explains the concept of finding joy beyond circumstances, drawing from his meditation and spiritual training. He describes the experience of joy that is inclusive of pain and how it transformed his recovery. Michael highlights the importance of persistence and practice in maintaining a joyful state of mind. He shares his gratitude for the support and skill of his surgeon and the profound impact of the surgery on his life. Joyful Excellence Mastermind Community Michael introduces the Joyful Excellence Mastermind Community as a resource for mental health and optimal performance. He explains the comprehensive curriculum covering various aspects of personal and relational well-being. Michael emphasizes the importance of putting happiness and love first, rather than pursuing them as end goals. He invites listeners to join the community and benefit from the cohesive system and support of like-minded individuals. Conclusion and Invitation Michael concludes the podcast by expressing his commitment to continuous improvement and welcoming feedback. He reiterates his availability for public speaking and keynote addresses. Michael encourages listeners to visit the All Together Academy website for more information and resources. He signs off with a reminder of the importance of choosing love and thriving together.

    27 min

About

No gaslighting, no denial, all heart with appropriate doses of grit, compassion, and humor, this podcast is about how to cultivate joyful excellence by design even if, aside from, and especially because bad stuff happens.