How a Near-Death Experience Transformed Michael O'Brien's Life

We often hear mantras urging us to “be in the present moment” or “appreciate what you have because it could all be gone tomorrow". While a part of us knows this to be true, we can still find ourselves stuck, focused on checking off our to-do lists, and laboring on the treadmill of work, believing that more money will lead to greater happiness.

In chasing this false sense of happiness, we often lose sight of what truly matters—our relationships, dreams, and purpose in life. This week, Michael O’Brien joins us on the Cracking Open podcast. Michael is a successful businessman who used to work 60-70 hours a week in corporate leadership and had fallen into the common traps of perceived happiness. But one day he endured a near-death cycling accident when he was struck head-on by an SUV traveling at 40 MPH. This incident completely changed his life.

In the wake of the accident, Michael pleaded for a second chance at life. He promised himself that if he survived, he would live more authentically and stop chasing that elusive happiness. Escaping death marked what he calls “My Last Bad Day,” a turning point that forever altered his outlook on life. After enduring 13 surgeries and years of physical therapy, Michael made a profound shift in his perspective, fulfilling his promise to live a more inspired life.

Influenced by his various teachers and meditation practice, he came to realize that his accident had served as a catalyst for transformation—not only for himself but for those around him. In this episode, Michael shares his "cracking open" story and the struggles that led him to a more intentional life. He discusses finding peace in a chaotic world, discovering personal power amid challenges, and evaluating how our careers can bring happiness.

Today, Michael is an experienced meditation teacher, executive coach, and endurance athlete. He loves helping people accomplish difficult goals through mindfulness, hosts the heartwarming Kintsugi Podcast, and created the app Pause, Breathe, Reflect. In 2022, he rode his bike across America, harnessing the power of mindfulness along the way. Today, Michael helps others navigate life and business using G.R.A.C.E.(Gratitude, Reframing, Awareness, Community, and Energy). This framework assists individuals in building trustworthy support systems, creating fulfilling lives, and bringing out the best in themselves and others.

This heart-centered and tear-filled conversation is not to be missed, and it's an honor to now consider Michael a mentor and friend.

Love,
Molly

Learn more about Michael O'Brien and his work here
Listen to the Kintsugi Podcast here
Download the Pause Breathe Reflect meditation app here
Connect with Michael on LinkedIn


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