Flow Unleashed

Cameron Norsworthy

Interested in HUMAN performance? Want to be kept up-to-date with the latest science and practice? Join Cameron Norsworthy, scientist and coach to multiple world champions, as he unpacks key topics to peak performance, deep engagement, and life satisfaction. After a career-ending injury as an athlete, I became fascinated by human experience; why in one moment, we can be feeling and acting our very best, only to struggle and stress moments later. I studied sports and performance psychology, neuroscience, coaching, and life-hacking, and did my PhD in advancing our understanding and application of flow. I became a scientist, an entrepreneur, and a coach, and found my life’s purpose in helping some of the world’s best athletes, entrepreneurs, and professionals find their flow. My drive to keep learning and growing genesis an organisation to innovate human performance and set the standards for performance coaching. In this podcast, I share everything that I am working on, giving you a window into the skills, insights, research, and practices that I use every day working with elite professionals. Meet experts from around the world and famous performers with unique stories as we unpack specific topics to help you evolve, raise your game when it matters, and help others to find success.

  1. JAN 12

    S4 E1: The Personal Journey Behind the book "How to Find Flow": Exclusive interview with author Dr Cameron Norsworthy (Part 1)

    In this introductory episode, the author, Dr Cameron Norsworthy, delves into the creation of his book, 'How to Find Flow,' in partnership with Bonnier and Blink Publishing. He explains the motivations behind writing the book, his personal encounters with flow, and why flow is integral to both personal and professional development. He recounts life experiences, including surviving a life-threatening situation in Brazil and overcoming challenges related to public speaking and dyslexia. Cameron also discusses the book's structure, the scientific and practical aspects of achieving flow, and the journey of distilling complex concepts into an accessible guide. He reflects on the common misconceptions about flow, the role of embodied cognition, and the importance of making flow an intentional part of life. The episode sets the stage for a deeper exploration of flow in subsequent episodes.   00:00 Introduction to the Series and Book 00:46 The Importance of Flow in Personal and Professional Life 00:58 Exploring the Book's Structure: Ready, Steady, Flow 01:49 Personal Challenges and Overcoming Adversity 05:49 Life-Threatening Situations and Their Impact 13:10 Discovering Flow Through Personal Experiences 22:21 Writing the Book: Challenges and Insights 30:19 Understanding Flow: Common Misconceptions 37:07 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview

    38 min
  2. 10/28/2025

    S3 EP11: Rethinking Prosperity: A conversation changing the way society and governments measure success towards wellbeing with Martin Oetting

    This episode questions the traditional measure of national success through GDP and proposes a shift towards an economy focused on human and ecological well-being. Host discusses with guest Martin Oetting, an ex-advertising professional turned documentarian, about his journey and insights on sustainable growth and his recent film PURPOSE. The conversation also touches on the work of Tim Jackson and the challenges and potential solutions for integrating well-being as a metric of progress. The episode emphasizes the need for grassroots movements to challenge the status quo and redefine prosperity. It concludes on the empowering note that change starts with individual actions and dialogues.   Access more insights and the show notes at: https://www.cameronnorsworthy.com/flow-unleashed   00:00 Rethinking Progress: Beyond GDP 01:35 Introducing Martin O'Toole: A Journey from Consumerism to Well-being 03:06 The Flaws of GDP and the Case for a Well-being Economy 05:20 Consequences of GDP Obsession: Environmental and Social Costs 08:56 Personal Reflections and the Shift to Meaningful Work 15:17 The Turning Point: Political and Social Awakening 17:39 Documenting Change: The Well-being Economy Film 18:57 Success Stories: Implementing Well-being Metrics 22:24 Challenges and Resistance to Change 27:02 Personal and Societal Transformation: Embracing New Metrics 36:14 Practical Steps and Community Engagement 51:38 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

    54 min
  3. 10/07/2025

    S3 EP8: Igniting Innovation and Freedom of Failure with Inventor, Educator, and Explorer Ed Sobey

    In this episode, Dr. Ed Sobey, founder of the US National Inventors Hall of Fame, discusses the significance of fostering innovation and the vital role of hands-on learning in education. Highlighting the need for moving past traditional classroom methods, he emphasizes the importance of active participation and creating a flow state for both teachers and students. Through engaging case studies, such as his projects in Western Australia, Dr. Sobey illustrates how bottom-up learning can transform disengaged students into enthusiastic innovators. He also touches on his diverse and adventurous career, stressing the need for educational reform driven by a collaborative effort from parents and teachers.   Access more insights and the show notes at: https://www.cameronnorsworthy.com/flow-unleashed 00:00 Introduction to Innovation 01:38 The Essence of Innovation 02:46 Meet Dr. Ed Sobey 04:27 Hands-On Learning in Action 05:51 Case Study: Western Australia 06:41 Engaging Disengaged Learners 23:08 The Importance of Mistakes 28:47 Systemic Issues in Education 36:12 Grassroots Change in Education 36:54 Empowering Teachers for the 21st Century 38:09 Prototyping in Schools 40:25 Small Bets for Big Wins 42:32 Overcoming Fear in Education 44:42 Personal Journey and Flow 53:29 The Unreasonable Institute and Semester at Sea 56:36 The Transformative Power of Travel 59:51 Expeditions and Personal Growth 01:02:29 Memorable Expeditions and Scuba Diving 01:06:15 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

    1h 12m
  4. 09/30/2025

    S3 EP7: Mental Crisis, Shamonic Ceremonies, Psychotic Episodes, and Embracing Non-Ordinary States as Mental Health Practices with Phil Borges

    In this episode, Phil Borges discusses the significance of non-ordinary states of consciousness, often feared and misunderstood, yet potentially transformative for mental health. He draws from his extensive experience documenting indigenous and tribal cultures, where such states are embraced as gateways to wisdom and communal benefit. Phil shares insights from his documentary 'Crazywise' and accounts of shamans who harness these states. The conversation touches on the different ways various cultures induce altered consciousness, and how modern societies can learn to better navigate and appreciate these experiences. Additionally, Phil recounts his personal journey from orthodontics to becoming an acclaimed photographer and storyteller, emphasizing pursuit of passion and curiosity. Access more insights and the show notes at: https://www.cameronnorsworthy.com/flow-unleashed 00:00 Introduction to Non-Ordinary States 01:00 Understanding the Brain and Consciousness 02:34 Phil Borges: Documenting Indigenous Wisdom 03:29 Experiences and Insights from Shamans 03:47 Phil's Journey into Mental Health Exploration 04:08 The Role of Shamans in Indigenous Cultures 04:59 Interview with Phil Borges Begins 06:01 Einstein's Perspective on Consciousness 07:26 Navigating Psychological Crises 12:27 The Concept of 'Othering' in Society 13:17 Phil's Documentary 'Crazy Wise' 26:09 The Default Mode Network and Consciousness 27:46 Managing Altered States of Consciousness 34:20 Cultural Frameworks and Perception 38:00 Exploring Flow in Mild and Intense Experiences 38:44 The Creative Power of Hypomania 41:42 Seeking Altered States of Consciousness 42:39 The Ego and Creative Energy 43:46 Pilgrimage and Self-Transcendence 52:56 Shamanic Rituals Around the World 58:43 A Life-Changing Career Shift 01:08:07 Advice for Pursuing Your Passion

    1h 18m
  5. 09/23/2025

    S3 EP6: How to utilise the brain and neuroscientific research for leadership with Sue Langley.

    In this episode, Sue Langley discusses how understanding the brain can enhance leadership abilities. She delves into how neuroscience reveals deeper insights into leadership behaviors, relationships, and sustained success. Highlighting research by Boyetsis and McKee, Langley emphasizes the importance of supportive relationships in activating neural networks conducive to openness, creativity, and collaboration. The episode covers the role of emotional contagion, the mirror neuron system, and self-leadership in fostering trust and positivity within organizations. Langley also discusses practical applications of neuroscience in leadership, including the impact of the brain's prediction mechanisms, habits, and emotional intelligence. She urges leaders to consider systemic perspectives that integrate brain science into broader contexts to create positive, resilient work environments.   Access more insights and the show notes at: https://www.cameronnorsworthy.com/flow-unleashed   00:00 Introduction to Leadership Challenges 01:07 The Neuroscience of Leadership 03:32 Understanding Emotional Contagion 04:37 Guest Introduction: Sue Langley 08:22 The Role of Dopamine in Leadership 13:16 The Impact of the Microbiome on Leadership 21:37 Emotional Intelligence in Leadership 28:33 Understanding Brain's Resistance to Change 29:33 The Role of Dopamine in Cognitive Overload 34:08 Habits: Behavior, Thought, and Emotion 36:03 Curiosity and Noticing: Building New Neural Pathways 37:19 The Impact of Categories and Age on Learning 42:08 The Ripple Effect: How We Influence and Are Influenced 43:17 Systemic Perspective on Human Well-being 50:30 The Future of Positive Psychology 52:47 Conclusion: Integrating Neuroscience into Leadership

    56 min

Ratings & Reviews

About

Interested in HUMAN performance? Want to be kept up-to-date with the latest science and practice? Join Cameron Norsworthy, scientist and coach to multiple world champions, as he unpacks key topics to peak performance, deep engagement, and life satisfaction. After a career-ending injury as an athlete, I became fascinated by human experience; why in one moment, we can be feeling and acting our very best, only to struggle and stress moments later. I studied sports and performance psychology, neuroscience, coaching, and life-hacking, and did my PhD in advancing our understanding and application of flow. I became a scientist, an entrepreneur, and a coach, and found my life’s purpose in helping some of the world’s best athletes, entrepreneurs, and professionals find their flow. My drive to keep learning and growing genesis an organisation to innovate human performance and set the standards for performance coaching. In this podcast, I share everything that I am working on, giving you a window into the skills, insights, research, and practices that I use every day working with elite professionals. Meet experts from around the world and famous performers with unique stories as we unpack specific topics to help you evolve, raise your game when it matters, and help others to find success.