The Kintsugi Podcast - Stories of Connection Michael OBrien

In this enriching episode of the Kintsugi Podcast, we sit down with renowned author and performance coach Brad Stulberg to explore the perennial dance of change in our lives. Drawing insights from Brad's extensive research and personal experiences, we delve into maintaining balance amidst life's inevitable fluctuations.

What You Will Discover

How to discern the noise from the signal in a world saturated with information.
The importance of embracing mundane daily practices for long-term happiness and high performance.
Insights into 'Allostasis' – achieving stability through change.
The concept of 'tragic optimism' and its relevance in today's world.
The role of community in supporting personal and collective growth.

Featured Quotes by Brad:

"Chasing the next big thing, rather than embracing moderation and focusing on the fundamentals, often leads us astray."
"Stability doesn't mean a lack of change. True stability comes from continuously adapting and integrating new experiences."

Connect with Brad:

Brad's Latest Book: Master of Change
Brad's Website
Instagram and LinkedIn

Call to Action: Embrace the small, consistent practices that Brad discusses in this episode. Reflect on how you can implement 'tragic optimism ' to navigate change more effectively.



Takeaway: Brad Stulberg reminds us that mastering change doesn't come from finding the secret formula but rather through embracing the ordinary yet consistent actions that foster resilience and growth. Join us next week for another episode of the Kintsugi Podcast, where we explore another story of connection and celebrate our golden symbols of strength.

In this inspiring episode of the Kintsugi Podcast, host Michael O'Brien sits down with Carina Hamill and Robby Ringer, the visionary co-founders of Bivo. This couple's journey from idea to execution illustrates their innovative approach to the cycling industry's reliance on plastic water bottles and their commitment to enhancing environmental consciousness and sustainability. Dive into their challenges, insights, and the joy they find in connecting passions with purpose.

Key Messages:

Challenges of Innovation:

Carina and Robby share the unexpected complexities of designing a water bottle that is both functional and sustainable. Their journey took them 18 months instead of the anticipated six months.
Foundation of Bivo:

The inception of Bivo wasn't about financial gains but stemmed from a profound passion for product design and environmental sustainability. This venture is driven by the desire to connect daily work with personal values and passions.
Sustainability at the Forefront:

They highlight the environmental impact of plastic in the cycling industry and how Bivo's stainless steel water bottles offer a health-conscious and eco-friendly alternative.
Personal Stories and Entrepreneurial Spirit:

Robby and Carina share their initial struggles, and balancing managing a startup with family life provides a relatable and motivational narrative for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Check Out Bivo: 

Explore more about Bivo and its journey towards revolutionizing the water bottle industry for a healthier planet at drinkbivo.com . Check out its blog for deeper insights and stories behind its innovative products.

The Last Mile Takeaway: Carina and Robby's story is more than just about creating a sustainable product; it's about reimagining everyday objects to foster better connections with our environment and each other. Their journey underlines the essence of Kintsugi: finding beauty in the reimagined.

One of key practices of my recovery was gratitude and I continue it today. This week's Pause Breathe Reflect Meditation is a ripple of gratitude to someone who's made a difference in your life this week. After the practice, reach out and let them know that you appreciate them. 

Join us as we explore the power of mindset and learn how it can change our relationship with stress, improve our sleep, and infuse mindfulness into our everyday moments. And remember, our invitation extends beyond this episode – our app, Pause, Breathe, Reflect, offers additional practices like the one shared today, and you can always join our live practices throughout the week.

Now, you can "Pay What You Can" for your first year. Yes, for as little as $1, you can become a member of our like-hearted community. You can find the Pause Breathe Reflect app in Apple's App Store or over at Google Play.

Take a moment to pause, breathe, and reflect with us as we embark on this journey of self-discovery and mindful living. And as we prepare for the weekend ahead, may we all create ripples of positivity and meaning in the world. Stay tuned for another inspiring story of connection on Tuesday's episode of the Kintsugi Podcast.

And be sure to check out our Pause Breathe Reflect gear at www.pausebreathereflect.com

Welcome to another enriching episode of the Kintsugi Podcast, where we dive deep into personal transformation, connection, and healing. In this week's Story of Connection, we gather around the campfire, grab a s'more, and talk with the like-hearted Tony Martignetti, a renowned leadership coach, author, and advocate for deeper human connections.

We explore the intricate process of personal growth, the power of community, and the courage required to embrace new identities.

Episode Highlights:

Tony Martignetti's Insight on Personal Transformation

Key Quote: "We need to include our past, but we need to transcend it. That's like the hardest part of the journey."
Tony discusses the challenging yet rewarding process of letting go of former self-definitions to embrace uncertain futures, emphasizing the importance of integrating past experiences to foster personal growth.
The Role of Community and Connection

Key Quote: "In a circle, all eyes can see. There's no hierarchy."
Michael and Tony highlight the significance of creating inclusive spaces where open and honest conversations can flourish, free from hierarchical constraints.
Celebrating Life's Impermanence and Opportunities

Key Quote: "Life's too short to be playing small, too short to be holding back."
They discuss the urgency of living fully and the potential losses when we hold ourselves back due to fear or complacency.
Tony's Reflections on Identity and Creative Expression

Key Quote: "Once you understand the language of something like dance or art, then it becomes part of you."
Tony shares his journey back to embracing his identity as an artist and the universal relevance of reclaiming and celebrating one's creative instincts.
Challenges and Hopes for the Future

Key Quote: "My hope is that we start to turn that around, one conversation at a time."
Tony expresses concerns about increasing divisiveness and hopes for more integrative and compassionate worldwide dialogue.
Tony's New Book 'Campfire Lessons for Leaders'
Tony's Website , LinkedIn , Instagram

With many meditations our awareness is fixed on the breath, body, or sound. In this week's Friday Pause Breathe Reflect meditation, I share an open awareness practice that can help us open up to all that life shares with us.  

Join us as we explore the power of mindset and learn how it can change our relationship with stress, improve our sleep, and infuse mindfulness into our everyday moments. And remember, our invitation extends beyond this episode – our app, Pause, Breathe, Reflect, offers additional practices like the one shared today, and you can always join our live practices throughout the week.

Now, you can "Pay What You Can" for your first year. Yes, for as little as $1, you can become a member of our like-hearted community. You can find the Pause Breathe Reflect app in Apple's App Store or over at Google Play.

Take a moment to pause, breathe, and reflect with us as we embark on this journey of self-discovery and mindful living. And as we prepare for the weekend ahead, may we all create ripples of positivity and meaning in the world. Stay tuned for another inspiring story of connection on Tuesday's episode of the Kintsugi Podcast.

And be sure to check out our Pause Breathe Reflect gear at www.pausebreathereflect.com

Welcome to the Kintsugi Podcast, where Michael shares deep insights and stories about connection, resilience, and the human experience.



In this episode, Michael takes us on a memorable journey through Colorado, reflecting on life's challenges and the beauty of community support. Join us as we explore the lessons learned from the open roads and the unexpected adventures that life throws our way.

Highlights & Key Messages:

Community and Support: Through his journey, Michael highlights the significance of community - drawing on an African proverb, "If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together."
Encounter with Fear: Michael recounts the harrowing experience of cycling through Colorado, dealing with narrow roads, heavy traffic, and extreme weather, underscoring the importance of safety and the value of presence.
The Power of Showing Up: The episode delves into the importance of being there for others, as Michael appreciates those who joined him on his journey, like Andrew, and the profound impact of their support
Mindful Living: Michael introduces his app, "Pause, Breathe, Reflect," designed for those seeking mindfulness amidst a busy life, emphasizing short practices that fit into daily routines
Understanding Your Peloton: Reflecting on his near-death cycling accident, Michael discusses the concept of your "peloton" - the group of people who support you and help you move forward in life.
Embracing Like-Heartedness: The episode concludes with a call to embrace communities based on like-heartedness rather than like-mindedness, fostering openness and acceptance
Quotes to Remember:

"Life is a collection of moments... But we find a way through." - Michael O'Brien
"Everything is neutral until we label it." - Michael on mindfulness and perspective
"If you want to go fast, go alone; if you want to go far, go together." - African proverb cited by Michael
"Your energy matters. Be the person who shows up in someone's life." - Michael on the importance of community support
Wrapping Up: 
This episode of the Kintsugi Podcast takes us through the scenic and challenging landscapes of Colorado and the inner landscapes of our minds and communities. Michael O'Brien's reflections and stories remind us of the resilience within us all and the profound strength found in coming together. Join us next month as we continue our journey, exploring new states and the lessons they hold.

Remember, the world needs your energy, so keep rippling something worth rippling into it. Thank you for being part of our like-hearted community at the Kintsugi Podcast.