Life Passion and Business

Paul Harvey

How do you live a good life? If you are interested in people and their journey through change and challenge, then you are in the right place. I choose my guests because they have a story and look like they have some answers. Our conversation is based on just 5 questions. But that is the route and direction for a life well lived.

  1. 6D AGO

    The Compassion Crisis: Are we running out of kindness?

    Today, we're diving into something I've been observing with growing concern—what I can only describe as a compassion crisis in our world. Have you noticed it, too? Is that increasing harshness in our media, our politics, and our everyday interactions? That subtle shift where showing toughness is valued over showing kindness? Where vulnerability is seen not as courage but as a weakness to be exploited? Last week, we explored how negative news travels faster than positive stories, creating a distorted view of reality. But today's topic goes deeper—beyond perception to a genuine shift in how we treat one another and ourselves. While researching this episode, I came across a fascinating historical example from ancient Rome demonstrating how radical compassion once changed the course of an entire civilisation. I'll share that story with you today, along with its powerful implications for our current moment. But this isn't just about society at large—it's about us, about you and me. How does living in a world that increasingly devalues compassion affect how we see ourselves? How we treat ourselves? In my coaching practice, I've witnessed the transformative power of self-compassion. I've seen how replacing that harsh inner critic with a supportive inner ally can create sustainable change that fear-based motivation never could. Today, we'll explore why compassion—both for others and for ourselves—might be the most revolutionary act in a culture that prizes toughness above all else. We'll discuss practical ways to cultivate self-compassion and how these personal practices can ripple outward to create meaningful change. So settle in, take a deep breath, and let's explore together how rekindling compassion might be exactly what we need in these challenging times.   Here is the historical link as mentioned  https://www.biblicalarchaeology.org/daily/ancient-cultures/daily-life-and-practice/the-antonine-plague-and-the-spread-of-christianity/   For more information, check out the links below, and if you found this useful, consider buying me a coffee below.   Remember if you found this shortcast helpful, please share it with a friend.          Life Passion & Business Podcast is about finding answers to life’s big questions through weekly interviews with guest speakers. The Shortcast is my ongoing commitment to staying inquisitive and passionate about life with whatever is alive for me each week. Follow the links below to discover what else is on offer.     The Five Questions eBook: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/the-five-questionsFocus Coaching: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/focus-coaching/ Support The Podcast:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lifeandpassionMidlife Survey: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/midlife-challenge/

    7 min
  2. MAR 16

    Crafting Your Story in a World of Noise

    Hey there, it's your midlife coach, Paul Harvey. In today's shortcast, we're taking a closer look at how the stories we tell ourselves shape our lives.  How do you stay in touch with the world events? In these turbulent times, the news and social channels are often more doom and gloom than sunshine and rainbows. And while staying informed is crucial, drowning in negativity doesn't do us any favours. So, how do you stay resilient and reclaim your personal story in a world that seems to profit from keeping you anxious? We're diving deep into why the modern media is more about capturing your attention than reflecting reality. It thrives on fear, outrage, and conflict, turning minor issues into headline news while world peace gets overlooked. The solution is balance; we're not saying to bury your head in the sand. Instead, let's find that sweet spot between being informed and being overwhelmed. Humans are story machines built from what we have heard or experienced. So, that story you believe and tell yourself becomes who you are and where you're headed. A strong narrative can help you see challenges as growth opportunities and recognise that you're the protagonist of your own life, not just a spectator of global events. But beware! When negative news overloads start infiltrating your personal story, they bring narratives of helplessness and powerlessness. We're discussing those "why bother?" thoughts that lead to inaction. So, let's chat about how to spot if these negative media narratives are seeping into your life and what to do about it. We’ll cover practical steps to maintain a resilient personal narrative. Be intentional about your media consumption, strengthen your story, and find your community. Whether it's creating art, helping someone, or being more present, there are many ways to fuel a positive outlook. Your story is too precious to be written by algorithms focusing on fear. So, as we wrap up, remember you have the power to craft a narrative that connects, empowers, and inspires.   Remember if you found this shortcast helpful, please share it with a friend.          Life Passion & Business Podcast is about finding answers to life’s big questions through weekly interviews with guest speakers. The Shortcast is my ongoing commitment to staying inquisitive and passionate about life with whatever is alive for me each week. Follow the links below to discover what else is on offer.     The Five Questions eBook: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/the-five-questionsFocus Coaching: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/focus-coaching/ Support The Podcast:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lifeandpassionMidlife Survey: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/midlife-challenge/

    11 min
  3. MAR 9

    The Power of Self-Implementation

    We all have this natural curiosity to search beyond ourselves, hoping to find some secret sauce or an external solution to the things we yearn for in life. But what if I told you everything you need is already within your reach? That's what we're diving into today on this bite-sized shortcast episode of 'Life, Passion, and Business.'  A recent chat with friends about a pricey retreat sparked something big — the only thing between you and your goals is action! Implementation is often our biggest stumbling block. I get it; it’s a common struggle.  The point we can go to the retreat, the event the training but it will only be as effective as the time we put into implementing what we have discovered. With that knowledge we explore how you could skip the events and still take the course or training. The point is all of these speakers have books and online content. What if you were to create or find a golden time slot — whether it’s a daily routine or a pocket of quiet — to dive into these resources? Whether you're paging through Tony Robbins' latest or brushing up on books from your shelf.  Here's my friendly nudge for you: start with what you have. Revisit those nuggets of wisdom you've gathered, and give them life through action. And hey, if you ever need a companion on this journey, You'll find accessible coaching options designed to propel you forward, minus the hefty price tag. Yes, a shameless plug.. But your first chat is free, so you know where I am.  Links below.  Remember if you found this shortcast helpful, please share it with a friend.          Life Passion & Business Podcast is about finding answers to life’s big questions through weekly interviews with guest speakers. The Shortcast is my ongoing commitment to staying inquisitive and passionate about life with whatever is alive for me each week. Follow the links below to discover what else is on offer.     The Five Questions eBook: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/the-five-questionsFocus Coaching: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/focus-coaching/ Support The Podcast:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lifeandpassionMidlife Survey: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/midlife-challenge/

    12 min
  4. MAR 2

    Mastering Equilibrium in Uncertain Times

    There is something that we all face at one time or another – anxiety, loss of equilibrium, how do we find the resilience to ride through life's rollercoasters?  It has been a tough week. How are you holding up in these wildly unpredictable times? Well, you're not alone, and that's exactly what we’re chatting about right here. We've been living in what's often called "unprecedented times", and it’s left many of us feeling a bit off-kilter. Whether it's global news that feels beyond our control or personal struggles closer to home, the trick is defining where our influence lies. Using Stephen Covey's principle of the "Circle of Influence and Circle of Concern", we take a closer look at focusing our energy where it counts the most. We also touch on practical, everyday techniques to maintain your cool. It could be as simple as avoiding constant news bombardment, practising mindfulness, or grounding yourself in the present.  In short, there are small, everyday actions that can make a difference. We wrap it up by discussing the potential that change – even when unwelcome – can bring new opportunities. There's a kind of peace in realizing that we're all in this soup together, sharing the journey and perhaps nudging the world a little closer to where we’d like it to be. Remember if you found this shortcast helpful, please share it with a friend.          Life Passion & Business Podcast is about finding answers to life’s big questions through weekly interviews with guest speakers. The Shortcast is my ongoing commitment to staying inquisitive and passionate about life with whatever is alive for me each week. Follow the links below to discover what else is on offer.     The Five Questions eBook: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/the-five-questionsFocus Coaching: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/focus-coaching/ Support The Podcast:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lifeandpassionMidlife Survey: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/midlife-challenge/

    12 min
  5. FEB 26

    Wendy Alexander: The $50k Career Launch

    My guest on the show is an international career coach, but her journey was from a place of no option. Her father's words were the inspiration, “you can be the victim or be victorious.”  She did and launched herself into a job search that led to a $50k salary increase.The show you are about to hear was recorded today; I thought the content is so reliant as we touched on the subjects from the weekend podcast that I had to get to get it out now.  I am talking about blame culture and identity politics, a topic we are all too familiar with.    Wendy Alexander grew up in South Africa to mixed-race parents and was defined as coloured, which meant her life and opportunities were restricted because of the colour of their skin. Her father was a fantastic role model, he taught the children how to survive in the system. However, he and his wife bravely moved the family from South Africa to Australia. That meant starting again from the bottom; this was 1987, and apartheid South Africa restricted what you could take out of the country.  The family arriving in Australia just a month before her 21st birthday meant lots of adjustment to life and new freedoms. Fast forward a few years, Wendy was in relationship and had a home she was buying with her partner, and life was good. Until it wasn’t, when the relationship broke, and she found herself 4 months pregnant, with no home and lots of debt.     She had to find a solution to generate an income that would support her and this unborn child and service the debt. It was the experience of her upbringing and the example set by her parents that gave her the tenacity to change. In this conversation, you will hear how she set about finding a role that could change her circumstances.  The process she developed put her on the path to a successful corporate career,  a role with 50K more than previous.  She used her process many times in different career sectors.  Those career development skills did not go unnoticed; she began career coaching as a side interest.That is a good lesson for all of us, we all have experiences that is are transferable skills and people will pay for that guidance.   In 2018, after years in the corporate world and battling the health challenges of diabetes and menopause, she stepped out of the business world to become a full-time career coach. She runs her business on her terms, guiding professional individuals, especially midlife and menopausal women, to the careers they’ve longed for.    Wendy told me before the show that she is a reluctant speaker, but I did not notice she has a fascinating story and tells it well. A quick apology: the audio on my end suffered a bit on this recording. That aside, tune in and explore the practical tips Wendy shares on refining resumes, harnessing transferable skills, and effectively navigating the modern job market, If you like what you heard,  Wendy is an international coach, so do check out the links below.     The full social links are all available at:https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/wendy-alexander-the-50k-career-launch   Life Passion & Business is dedicated to exploring what it takes to be Extraordinary, to face challenges and rejoice in the opportunities they bring, and to expand our vision into new ways of thinking and living. There is a lot to gain from listening to other people’s stories. However, the real work begins by taking action in your own life. For full details of Events, Resources and Services, visit: www.lifepassionandbusiness.com     Support For Podcasters: Running a podcast is fun, but it takes time and dedication. Whenever you enjoy a podcast please share your appreciation with comments, likes, shares and reviews. It helps other listeners find good content and supports the content creators and their guests. Another way you can support the Life Passion & Business podcast is with small donations: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lifeandpassion

    53 min
  6. FEB 23

    Stepping Beyond Blame: Embracing Responsibility and Growth

    Have you ever felt weighed down by the blame game, whether from the news headlines or those everyday personal interactions? In this episode of Life, Passion, and Business, I'm diving into this very topic, challenging us to rethink how we perceive blame, responsibility, and, ultimately, our own potential for growth. You know how the world feels pretty chaotic these days, with politics seeming like a never-ending blame fest? It's not just about pointing fingers; it's become a clever tool for evading responsibility. But that's not where the story ends—in fact, it's just the beginning. I'm inviting you to take a more personal turn. Think about the stories you tell yourself and how they could be shaped by the culture of blame around us. Could there be a more empowered narrative waiting for you? By stepping back and considering our own roles in life’s mishaps, we open the door to personal growth and stronger relationships. Let's chat about it: Do you find yourself sometimes on the defensive, quick to point out not my fault? Guess what—you're not alone, but understanding why we do this can lead us to a more compassionate and connected life. Join me as we unravel the nuances of blame from the playground to politics and explore how a shift in perspective not only unburdens us but also enhances creativity and trust. Together, we can step away from blaming and towards understanding, healing, and creating a life of passion and purpose. And before you go, if this hits home or you know someone who might benefit from our chat, please share this episode with them. Let's spread the positivity, my friend! 🎙️   Remember if you found this shortcast helpful, please share it with a friend.          Life Passion & Business Podcast is about finding answers to life’s big questions through weekly interviews with guest speakers. The Shortcast is my ongoing commitment to staying inquisitive and passionate about life with whatever is alive for me each week. Follow the links below to discover what else is on offer.     The Five Questions eBook: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/the-five-questionsFocus Coaching: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/focus-coaching/ Support The Podcast:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lifeandpassionMidlife Survey: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/midlife-challenge/

    20 min
  7. FEB 16

    Striking the Balance: Consumption vs Creation in Modern Life

    Lets talk is all about figuring out where you stand between consuming and creating in your life. On this show, we touch on how easy it is to slip into the endless consumption loop—be it binge-watching series, doom scrolling on your phone, or even consuming educational content without applying it. It's a common trap and one I've fallen into myself. But here's the thing: while consumption can often offer a much-needed release, especially in a stressful world, it shouldn’t overshadow our creative endeavours. Whether it’s building a business, crafting a piece of art, or even tidying up your space, creativity is what propels us forward in life. It's about making sure there's more creation in our days than mere consumption. I mean, wouldn’t you agree that we often feel more fulfilled and in control after creating something, no matter how small? The conversation zeroes in on this balance and challenges us to reflect on how we're spending our time. So, my challenge for you today is to assess your own consumption-creation balance. If it's off-kilter, consider what you could shift to bring more creative actions into your life.  If you found this episode helpful, why not share it with a friend? A little bit of thought-provoking content can go a long way in sparking meaningful conversations. As always, I truly appreciate your time and attention. Catch you next time!Links to focus coaching is below.  Remember if you found this shortcast helpful, please share it with a friend.          Life Passion & Business Podcast is about finding answers to life’s big questions through weekly interviews with guest speakers. The Shortcast is my ongoing commitment to staying inquisitive and passionate about life with whatever is alive for me each week. Follow the links below to discover what else is on offer.     The Five Questions eBook: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/the-five-questionsFocus Coaching: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/focus-coaching/ Support The Podcast:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lifeandpassionMidlife Survey: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/midlife-challenge/

    11 min
  8. FEB 9

    Crafting Your Perfect Day: Beyond Duvets and Books

    How do you measure your day? What does it take to craft the perfect day? Think about it—what makes a day perfect? Is it money, satisfaction, or the precious time well-spent? Perhaps it's something else entirely! I'm Paul Harvey, a midlife coach, and my opinion has long been that our stories shape everything we do, feel, or experience. Let's explore how our daily rituals and little surprises can bring us closer to those perfect moments. Let's admit it, we all have those 'blah' days where nothing seems right. But have you ever sat down to actually define what a perfect day looks like for you? For some, it's lounging in bed with a book; for others, it’s a cozy café with a pot of Earl Grey. Let's question if that image holds true every single day. What if perfection isn't an everyday occurrence but an extraordinary happenstance? I’ve had chats with people who often realize in hindsight that a surprise or unexpected twist made their day perfect—an uplifting conversation, a random act of kindness, or just sipping a fabulous coffee paired with something sweet. We can't engineer surprises, but we can craft habits and create space for those little joys to make a day special. Morning rituals, like stretching or enjoying a leisurely coffee, set the tone. You know your perfect ingredients—a bit of workout, family time, progressing on a fun project, sound familiar? Take the time each morning to figure out what you wish to accomplish. Planning gives room for those desired elements to flourish, bringing a sense of fulfilment by day's end. Ultimately, perfect days are about capturing moments of gratitude. Reviewing the successful parts of your day and feeling thankful magnifies life's joys. It's all about valuing what you have and how you spend your time. So here’s a little nudge—how do you measure your day, and why not allow a hint of perfection to bloom each day? Share these thoughts with a friend, and let’s keep this uplifting conversation going! Thank you for tuning in, and here's to savouring our days with more purpose and joy. Catch you next time!   Remember if you found this shortcast helpful, please share it with a friend.          Life Passion & Business Podcast is about finding answers to life’s big questions through weekly interviews with guest speakers. The Shortcast is my ongoing commitment to staying inquisitive and passionate about life with whatever is alive for me each week. Follow the links below to discover what else is on offer.     The Five Questions eBook: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/the-five-questionsFocus Coaching: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/focus-coaching/ Support The Podcast:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/lifeandpassionMidlife Survey: https://lifepassionandbusiness.com/midlife-challenge/

    12 min
    4.2
    out of 5
    23 Ratings

    About

    How do you live a good life? If you are interested in people and their journey through change and challenge, then you are in the right place. I choose my guests because they have a story and look like they have some answers. Our conversation is based on just 5 questions. But that is the route and direction for a life well lived.

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