The Freedom Fridays Podcast started as Pete Clark's weekly experiment with time and focus. Where the aim was to reclaim Fridays and make them a day free from the constraints of work. The podcast has since evolved to become Pete's weekly conversation with ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
We explore some of the big changes people have gone through and what’s helped the journey. The intention is to share as openly as possible some of the ingredients – the good, the bad, the ugly – that shape our shift from ‘I have to’ into ‘I choose to’.
The lessons are hiding in open sight within the conversation – it’s up to you how you apply them.
In episode 76, Pete records a solo podcast. The Overland Track experience was a significant one for Pete and in this podcast he share’s some further thoughts and insights about his experience.
Tune in to hear about pausing to look back but focusing on what’s in front of you; Going together but at your own pace: how peer pressure exists at any age; and some reflections on the eclectic hiker.
Show Notes: Episode #76
For more on Pete Clark, 21 Whispers: www.21whispers.com | Instagram/thewhispersguy | LinkedIn/peteclark21whispers
In Episode 75 Pete chats to another Pete – Pete Lawson, a livestock farmer based in country NSW. They met through a mutual friend and connected whilst completing the Overland Track in Tasmania.
What was intriguing about Pete’s story is the framework he was introduced to as a 19-year-old that he has used in setting and delivering on his goals ever since – not just for himself but his entire family! It’s a practical take on the "Know, Do, Be" goal-setting framework in which they chat about on-farm and off-farm assets; caring for the landscape beyond his tenure; and what sort of person he wanted to be and how that’s evolved.
It's a great example of the practical and genuine application of a theoretical framework that Pete wasn’t aware he was following. Tune in to hear some real-life examples of how you can bring it to life.
Show Notes: Episode #75
For more on Pete Clark, 21 Whispers: www.21whispers.com | Instagram/thewhispersguy | LinkedIn/peteclark21whispers
In this episode, Pete chats with author and experienced business consultant Sharon Seivert. They discuss some of the challenges facing leaders now and into the future. Sharon shares the elements of Balanced Leadership – Core | Vision | Mission | Interact with people | Structure | Synergy – based on her latest book and they explore how those elements might show up for every level of the leadership experience.
Sharon shares some key thoughts about how to resist using fear, facts and force to influence and instead how to leverage the Superpowers explored in her latest book.
Sharon generously shares plenty of reference material in the below show notes.
Show Notes: Episode #74
Find Sharon Seivert:www.CoreCoachingConsulting.com | LinkedIn/sharonseivert
For more on Pete Clark, 21 Whispers: www.21whispers.com | Instagram/thewhispersguy | LinkedIn/peteclark21whispers
Reference Material:
Sharon's latest book: The Superpower of Balanced Leadership in Unbalanced Times
Get a free PDF about "What's In It for Me?" and learn more about the Balanced Leadership Program for senior leaders & business owners: www.Core-learning-services.org/superpower
Free events from our Core Community where I teach quick ways to remove common obstacles to people's progress and felt freedom! -- www.core-learning-service.org/community-main
The one-hour high-productivity recommendation I described that gets people "in the Zone" to change/increase the effectiveness of their time: www.corelearningzone.com
In Episode #73 we have returned guest, Dr. Kristy Goodwin who joins Pete to chat about her new book ‘Dear Digital, We Need To Talk'. Dr. Kristy Goodwin is an award-winning digital wellbeing and productivity expert, researcher, author, speaker, and media commentator who provides science-backed solutions to optimise wellbeing and productivity in a digital world.
Pete and Kristy chat about the digital pull impacting not only our kids and teens, but all of us, the high rate of burnout, the rise of Chat GBT, and the top three tech-based micro habits that will make the biggest difference to small business owners.
Show Notes: Episode #73
Find Dr. Kristy Goodwin: https://drkristygoodwin.com/ | Instagram/drkristy | LinkedIn/dr-kristy-goodwin
For more on Pete Clark, 21 Whispers: www.21whispers.com | Instagram/thewhispersguy | LinkedIn/peteclark21whispers
This week Pete records a solo episode. After reflecting on a question he was asked “How do you make time for learning and growth?”. Pete shares some personal insights from listening to a recent podcast.
Aligned with the philosophy behind Freedom Fridays, Pete shares his personal take on questions like “How would you play if you were totally free?”.
Jonny Wilkinson's I Am podcast episode with Peter Crone can be found here.
Show Notes: Episode #64
For more on Pete Clark, 21 Whispers: www.21whispers.com | Instagram/thewhispersguy | LinkedIn/peteclark21whispers
This week Pete chats with his first-ever guest on the podcast, Alex Moffat.
Alex’s circumstances have changed since they first spoke and he now has far greater freedom than before. They discuss how this can be as scary as it is empowering. The conversation weaves in some tales about magic – the side hustle Alex is currently building. They also explore the emotions of being made redundant and the distinction between the ‘role’ being made redundant and not ‘the person’ being made redundant. If you find yourself in the space of having too much freedom or time on your hands then Alex offers some real-life ‘live’ examples of what you can do to balance the uncertainty.
Show Notes: Episode #63
Find Alex Moffat: www.alexmoffat.au | LinkedIn/alex-moffat | Instagram/al.moffat
For more on Pete Clark, 21 Whispers: www.21whispers.com | Instagram/thewhispersguy | LinkedIn/peteclark21whispers
This week Pete chats with a colleague, Emma Frazer, about all things change and transformation.
With growth on many agendas these days, they dive into how to navigate the changes required to enable growth e.g. creating the capacity to help navigate the potential overwhelm of ‘flying the plane and fixing it at the same time”.
Emma shares her perspective on the importance of firm boundaries and moving towards a goal of working smarter not necessarily harder.
Show Notes: Episode #62
Find Emma Frazer: www.no8consulting.com | LinkedIn/eafrazer
For more on Pete Clark, 21 Whispers: www.21whispers.com | Instagram/thewhispersguy | LinkedIn/peteclark21whispers
This week Pete chats with Melissa Marsden a working mumpreneur recently back at work after a 3rd child. Melissa’s specialty is workplace design, which is ultimately about life and success design as much as anything else.
The conversation starts with freedom as a value and moves through your unique definition of success and ends up making the distinction between “I have to" and “I get to”. Melissa shares some tips on making life choices and some of the trade-offs required to live a life by design, especially in how to retain the right and identity to say no.
Show Notes: Episode #61
Books referenced:
Five Love Languages by Gary Chapman
Super Attractor: Methods for Manifesting a Life beyond Your Wildest Dreams by Gabrielle Bernstein
Find Melissa Marsden: www.melissamarsden.com.au | LinkedIn/melissamarsden | Instagram/melmar
For more on Pete Clark, 21 Whispers: www.21whispers.com | Instagram/thewhispersguy | LinkedIn/peteclark21whispers
This week we're offering something a little different. Pete was invited by Karen Gately, Founder & Sensei of Corporate Dojo, as a special guest on their membership-only Work Savvy podcast available through their online learning centre.
On the show, Karen, Maddie, and Pete chat about high-performing teams.
Pete helps Karen and Maddie answer:
What it takes to get a group of people to be a great team
Overcoming common reasons teams struggle to collaborate
How to accurately assess the extent to which your team is high performing
Show Notes: Episode #60
For more on Pete Clark, 21 Whispers: www.21whispers.com | Instagram/thewhispersguy | LinkedIn/peteclark21whispers
This week Pete chats with Alison Cameron. Alison is a long-term practitioner and facilitator of leadership/cultural growth and development and a founder of Adaptive Cultures.
They dive into some distinctions Alison makes in her book “Leadership for the New Millenium” and they ponder and discuss questions like who am I, where am I, how do I fit in with myself, and explore the extent to which life has become a habit or a ritual.
Alison offers some practical tips to reconnect with our wildness and sit with questions without the need for an answer. If you’ve ever wondered what the most pervasive and durable leadership skill is then listen in for some clues.
Show Notes: Episode #59
Find Alison Cameron: www.alisoncameron.com | LinkedIn/alison-cameron
For more on Pete Clark, 21 Whispers: www.21whispers.com | Instagram/thewhispersguy | LinkedIn/peteclark21whispers
In Episode #58 Pete chats with Steph Clarke. Steph is a facilitator and modern-day L&D program and curriculum designer, a visual and graphic designer, and an auditor in a past life. Steph reimagines organisational learning. Her combination of skills and experiences allow her to channel her energy into what she enjoys and is excited by the organisations that are rethinking and challenging how people work and learn at work. Steph is an advocate of ongoing learning and enjoys breaking it down into bite-sized shareable chunks through her podcast Steph’s Business Bookshelf Podcast.
Steph and Pete chat about their shared love of books and the prerequired reading for leaders who want to get things done and lead people well. Steph gives her definition of trust which is an amalgamation of definitions expertly put together by the best. And they discuss learning goals, recognition of learning, and what aspiring companies can achieve in this area.
Show Notes: Episode #58
Find Steph Clarke: www.itsyesand.co | LinkedIn/steph-clarke | instagram/stephsbizbookshelf | Podcast/Steph'sBusinessBookshelf
For more on Pete Clark, 21 Whispers: www.21whispers.com | Instagram/thewhispersguy | LinkedIn/peteclark21whispers
In Episode #57 Pete chats with Kristin Taylor. Kristin Taylor, M.A. is a life and executive coach. She brings over 20 years of counseling and coaching experience and blends elements of neuroscience, nervous system and emotional regulation, mindfulness, and psychology into her approach, relying heavily on teaching self-compassion. Kristin specialises in working with leaders who are experiencing unwelcome levels of stress, anxiety and imposterism.
Pete and Kristin chat about nervous system dysregulation. What’s that I hear you think. The essence of it is that our body stores stress in various forms and when our body is in chronic stress mode – think pandemic and post-pandemic – it can activate stress chemicals that lead to burnout. Kristin offers some practical solutions and some fascinating sidebar references to handling the stress our body takes on and helps with some tips to align our mind and body.
Podcast references:
Tara Brach RAIN: Recognise, Allow, Investigate, Nurture
Explaining neuroplasticity YouTube link
Michael Newton - Newton Institute
Show Notes: Episode #57
Find Kristin Taylor: www.kristintaylorconsulting.com| LinkedIn/kristintaylorconsulting | Podcast / How I Made It Through
For more on Pete Clark, 21 Whispers: www.21whispers.com | Instagram/thewhispersguy | LinkedIn/peteclark21whispers
In this episode, Pete's first solo episode in a while, Pete takes a look at the 3 steps required for intentional growth. If you and/or your team are looking to intentionally grow in a specific, deliberate, and visible way then this is the episode for you.
Show Notes: Episode #56
For more on Pete Clark, 21 Whispers: www.21whispers.com | Instagram/thewhispersguy | LinkedIn/peteclark21whispers
Pete has enjoyed his recent chats with guests of the Freedom Fridays podcast and we are grateful for their time and expertise. As we are over halfway through the year we thought this would be a great time to recap some of the insights gained from these wonderful guests.
This episode takes a look at our guest’s answers to the question Pete uses to open each interview – In terms of the work that each guest does, what should we be seeking freedom from?
Below are the links to each guest's episodes in full and their socials should you wish to hear more of what they have to say.
Dr. Kristy Goodwin Episode #49 show notes
Find Kristy: https://drkristygoodwin.com/ | Instagram/drkristy
Shane Michael Hatton Episode #50 show notes
Find Shane: www.shanemhatton.com | Instagram/shanemhatton | LinkedIn/shanemhatton
Karen Simmons Episode #51 show notes
Find Karen: www.changeexec.com| Instagram/thechangeexec | LinkedIn
Gabrielle Dolan Episode #52 show notes
Find Gabrielle: www.gabrielledolan.com| instagram.com/gabrielledolan.1 | LinkedIn/gabrielledolan
Conor O'Malley Episode #53 show notes
Find Conor: www.conoromalley.com.au | LinkedIn/conoromalley
Helena Clayton Episode #54 show notes
Find Helena: www.helenaclayton.co.uk| twitter.com@helenaclayton | LinkedIn/helena-clayton
For more on Pete Clark, 21 Whispers: https://www.21whispers.com | Instagram/thewhispersguy
In Episode #54 Pete chats with Helena Clayton, a leadership development coach, consultant, and facilitator based in the UK. Having started her executive career in a series of strategic and operational HR roles, Helena has experienced first-hand the vast impact that poor and exceptional leadership can make on an organisation and its people.
Helena thrives as an independent consultant and associate working for various clients and in partnership with organisations. Helena works with Roffey Park as part of their Faculty for the MSc in People and Organisational Development and with London Business School as a Programme Director.
Helena’s current research focuses on love in the workplace and Pete and Helena talk about freedom from shades of grey, the cages we put ourselves in without realising, and the philosophy of living life with love at the centre.
Show Notes: Episode #54
Find Helena Clayton: www.helenaclayton.co.uk| twitter.com@helenaclayton | LinkedIn/helena-clayton
For more on Pete Clark, 21 Whispers: www.21whispers.com | Instagram/thewhispersguy | LinkedIn/peteclark21whispers
In Episode #53 Pete chats with Conor O’Malley, a Scot with an Irish name and an English accent, who now calls himself an Australian too. Conor is an executive coach for leaders who want to learn, and be more effective leaders of their business, their team, and in society. He is also the author of “Trust – Begins and ends with self” and the creator of the life and coaching philosophy Observe | Choose | Act.
Conor and Pete chat about the definition of a leader, how it’s changing, and the importance of being a more effective leader in and of society. They discuss the internal freedom gained from letting go of a story that is holding you and how that, in turn, leads to external freedom. And they look at the concept of shifting your way of being so you can shift your way of doing.
Show Notes: Episode #53
Find Conor O’Malley: www.conoromalley.com.au | LinkedIn/conoromalley
For more on Pete Clark, 21 Whispers: www.21whispers.com | Instagram/thewhispersguy | LinkedIn/peteclark21whispers
In Episode #52 Pete chats with Gabrielle Dolan, a highly sought-after keynote speaker, educator, and author. Gabrielle understands the power of storytelling in effective business communication and has found her calling as a global thought leader in strategic storytelling and real communication. Gabrielle has worked with thousands of high-profile leaders and their teams from around the world and takes the time for an enlightening and informative chat with Pete.
Gabrielle (Ral) and Pete chat about the Freedom Fridays philosophy, the importance of setting boundaries, and the tangible and intangible effects those boundaries have had on Ral’s personal and business life. They take a look at the helpful and hindering convenient stories that we all tell ourselves. And dive into the importance of bringing humanity and real-life personal stories into the world of business communication.
Show Notes: Episode #52
Find Gabrielle Dolan: www.gabrielledolan.com| instagram.com/gabrielledolan.1 | LinkedIn/gabrielledolan
For more on Pete Clark, 21 Whispers: www.21whispers.com | Instagram/thewhispersguy | LinkedIn/peteclark21whispers
In episode #51 Pete chats with Karen Simmons a complex change specialist, coach, facilitator, and founder of The Change Executive. Karen, with her 30 years of experience, has a deep understanding of what it takes to transform a business culture from the ‘inside out’. Ask Karen what her purpose is, and she’ll say it’s helping you realign with yours so you can realise your full potential.
Pete and Karen have an in-depth conversation about being free to be who you are, the pitfalls of comparing yourself to others, and the small practices that need implementation to make lasting change.
As part of the podcast Karen shares her penned poem Come As You Are:
If you want your team to achieve a lot more,
please leave your hierarchy at the door.
Come join the discussion as the person you are,
be present, and curious don't judge from afar.
Open yourself up to not being 'the boss',
diversity of thought should be nurtured not lost.
Every team player has the potential to share,
tho' willingness comes when there is trust and care.
So be the boss that shows the spirit to create,
and not the one that needs to dominate.
And when you do leave your hierarchy at the door,
just watch how your team will achieve so much more!
Show Notes: Episode #51
Find Karen Simmons: www.changeexec.com| Instagram/thechangeexec| LinkedIn
For more on Pete Clark, 21 Whispers: www.21whispers.com | Instagram/thewhispersguy | LinkedIn/peteclark21whispers
In episode #50 Pete chats with Shane Michael Hatton a speaker, author, trainer, and coach who blends his experience in business and psychology to help leaders communicate, connect and collaborate more effectively in order to bring out the best in those they lead.
Pete and Shane have an in-depth conversation around personal rulebooks - the conscious and unconscious rules that we live our lives by. They take a deep dive into what business culture really is - how leaders define culture, how businesses are governed by their establishment of culture, and the possibilities of culture change.
Show Notes: Episode #50
Find Shane Michael Hatton: www.shanemhatton.com | Instagram/shanemhatton| LinkedIn/shanemhatton
Books by Shane Michael Hatton: Lead The Room | Let’s Talk Culture
For more on Pete Clark, 21 Whispers: www.21whispers.com | Instagram/thewhispersguy | LinkedIn/peteclark21whispers
Episode #49 is a deep dive into our digital dependence and the effects it’s having on all our lives. Pete talks to Dr. Kristy Goodwin, one of Australia’s leading digital wellbeing and performance experts. Kristy is a researcher, author, speaker, and media commentator who provides science-backed solutions to optimise wellbeing and productivity in a digital world.
Technology has crept into every crevice of our lives and now more than ever people of all ages are tethered to their devices and their happiness and productivity are being compromised. If you’d like to take a giant step away from the technologies running your and your family’s lives this podcast is full of practical tips and tricks that will help you curb the dependence and own your productivity.
Show Notes: Episode #49
Find Dr. Kristy Goodwin: https://drkristygoodwin.com/ | Instagram/drkristy
For more on Pete Clark, 21 Whispers: https://www.21whispers.com | Instagram/thewhispersguy
Welcome back to the first solo podcast episode of Season #2. Pete shares some reflections on the year to date and some of the questions he's pondering… and still yet to find answers to. Pete explores what he's chosen to focus on in this one wild and precious life. He delves into the ongoing discussion of how long it takes to form a habit. And, he looks at our biggest barrier to being happier, healthier, and more successful.
Show Notes: Episode #48
For more on Pete Clark, 21 Whispers: https://www.21whispers.com | Instagram/thewhispersguy
For Pete's final recording of the year, he's gone back to a solo recording. Pete will share some reflections about the year – from starting ugly to continuing ugly. From the uniqueness of everyone’s story to the doubt people have about having any sort of story at all. From turning up every week for a year to taking a pause to reflect on what next. Finally, Pete shares some reflections from his guests about how they felt seen, heard and held during the conversation and how that gap has arisen for him.
Show Notes: Episode #47
This Pete speaks with Dave Sollars - a fellow facilitator and personal growth geek just like Pete. They discuss the impact of recognising when they’ve given their power, authority and choice away and how to reclaim it.
They dive into the idea that their past – from which they live forward - is a story. Dave offers some ideas and questions that might help someone discover other stories that could support a different future.
There are many whispers in this episode and we encourage you to think of an area of your life that you are keen for change in and listen to the podcast with that in mind.
Show Notes: Episode #46
This week Pete chats with David Riley. An old friend that he haven’t seen for a while but Pete has been following David’s journey over the last 12 months as he’s done a clockwise circumnavigation of Australia with his family. An extraordinary experience without a doubt. So many nuggets to share about such things as why he did it; how much persuasion of the family was required; how much did it cost; would he do it again or has his heart been satisfied. David shares some beautiful and vulnerable moments with us about some pertinent reminders of the wonder of life.
Show Notes: Episode #45
This week is Part #2 of Pete’s chat with Glin Bayley, founder of Heart of Human, author and host of the Unstoppable Woman Podcast. In this episode we focus on women in leadership and how it differs from leadership generally; how to listen from your heart and Glin’s Heart of Human™ framework. Glin shares her experience of how our emotions are a guidance system and embracing the messiness of life with active hope.
Enjoy Episode #44 Part #2 with Glin Bayley.
Show Notes: Episode #44
This week Pete chats with Glin Bayley, founder of Heart of Human, author and host of the Unstoppable Woman Podcast and 8 week online life changer. Glin gets raw and vulnerable pretty quickly as she recounts her life journey over the last few years. It’s such an eye and heart-opener that anyone, not just women, will be touched by the story and how Glin made it to where she is today. It’s become a little pattern for me that the conversation gets into flow and we jabber away and lose track of time so again I’ve split this into 2 parts. Part #1 is the raw story of what Glin has made peace with to be where she is today. She talks about how she has used gratitude to counter grief and the power of 5 mins a day for 4.5 years!
Click to listen to Episode #43 Part #1 with Glin Bayley
Show Notes: Episode #43
This week Pete chats to a couple of guests - one of whom is his youngest daughter! Both Sammy & Evie have just finished their HSC (Higher School Certificate) and have finished their 12 years of institutionalisation.
Neither of them have been guests on a podcast and have the rest of their lives ahead of them. I was really interested to understand what that change was like. What’s it like embarking on the rest of your life? What are they looking forward to? What have they left behind? They might be first-time podcast guests but they share some raw and genuine thoughts and feelings about the change ahead of them.
Show Notes: Episode #42
This week completes the trifecta - the continuation of the conversation Pete had with Karen Gately, Founder & Sensei of Corporate Dojo. In Part #3 to close the conversation they deconstruct the “I’m time-poor’’ badge of honour and explore whether to give tasks to those that are most capable or least capable. They round out their conversation with a discussion about the importance in a people leadership role of having an awareness of how humans operate.
Enjoy Episode #41 Part #3 with Karen Gately.
Show Notes: Episode #41
This week is a continuation of the conversation Pete had with Karen Gately, Founder & Sensei of Corporate Dojo. In Part #2 they share some thoughts about the voyage of discovery some people ‘choose to’ or ‘have to’ go on. They get uncomfortable with parts of them that aren’t comfortable to consider and the impact words - particularly from others - can have. Pete pauses the conversation again to consider why we are playing the game we’re playing.
Enjoy Episode #40 Part #2 with Karen Gately.
Show Notes: Episode #40
This week Pete chatted with Karen Gately, Founder & Sensei of Corporate Dojo. They’ve only known each other a few weeks but already found some interesting connections and things in common. As has become the pattern they got into flow and the conversation lasted over an hour. We have chunked the conversation into 3 parts. In Part #1 we discuss a range of topics such as imaging our future self; balancing our own internal and external definitions of success; overcoming – if even possible – the ‘being enough’ syndrome.
Show Note: Episode #39
During this week’s episode Pete chats with Marcus Crow of 10,000 Hours, a long-time friend, ex-colleague and fellow facilitator. The focus of our discussion is change and what we’ve experienced are some of the markers to successful or unsuccessful change efforts – whether personal or professional. As expected, we got into a bit of a flow and I’ve carved out the conversation into 2 parts. In part #1 we discuss some of the common change management approaches and our views of the positives and negatives. We also touch on navigating complexity beyond the changes that the current pandemic scenario has forced upon many of us.
Click here to listen to Part #1
Show Notes: Episode #38
During this week’s episode Pete chats with Marcus Crow of 10,000 Hours, a long-time friend, ex-colleague and fellow facilitator. The focus of our discussion is change and what we’ve experienced are some of the markers to successful or unsuccessful change efforts – whether personal or professional. As expected, we got into a bit of a flow and I’ve carved out the conversation into 2 parts. In part #1 we discuss some of the common change management approaches and our views of the positives and negatives. We also touch on navigating complexity beyond the changes that the current pandemic scenario has forced upon many of us.
Show Notes: Episode #37
This week Pete chats to Howard Tinker of Restaurant Profits. Howard shares his story of coming from significant poverty in the UK to being a self-made entrepreneur teaching other entrepreneurs and living a life beyond his childhood dreams and aspirations.
This is a 2-part Episode. Check out Part #2 Episode #36
Show Notes: Episode #36
This week Pete chats to Howard Tinker of Restaurant Profits. Howard shares his story of coming from significant poverty in the UK to being a self-made entrepreneur teaching other entrepreneurs and living a life beyond his childhood dreams and aspirations.
This is a 2-part Episode. Check out Part #1 Episode #35
Show Notes: Episode #35
This week Pete chatted with Anne Neilan who made the big switch from big corporate to running her own business – Neilan Digital, a boutique digital marketing agency for small business.
We discuss the dilemmas of being a working mum, working with your partner, balancing the dilemma of being a ‘classic over-achiever’ with parenthood and everything in between.
Show Notes: Episode #34
This week Pete chats with Tom Gleeson – farm boy to fighter pilot.
We explore Tom’s journey from growing up on a farm to flying F18 jets. We touch on the necessity and impact of a relentless and forensic win-learn-change mindset. We discuss how he built the capability to see order in chaos whilst flying a multi-million dollar piece of government kit at up to 1000 mph in the middle of an airborne dog fight. We also reflect on what lessons he’d carried into his career and life in the present day.
This week Pete returns to a solo episode. R U OK? has been prominent this week and Pete shares some of his own thoughts about whether he's OK? The answer is yes, but Pete talks about his willingness to surrender, his pattern of closing in to protect himself, especially in relationships, and trying to burst through the story that everything needs to be tied up in a bow.
Show Notes: Episode #32
Useful Links:
Sarah Blondin - Learning To Surrender
Loving What Is - By Byron Katie
This week my guest, Graham Roberts, and I openly discuss some challenging aspects of mental health. Graham willingly and compassionately shares the ups and downs of his own mental health journey.
WARNING: Please be aware that within this conversation we discuss suicidal thoughts and ideation - particularly at the 6 -7 minute mark. If you suspect this conversation might be an unhelpful trigger for you then this might be one to skip.
As you will hear us say, whilst it can be difficult, it is important and absolutely a sign of strength to seek help and support when we need it - something both Graham and I have done at times.
Please seek specialised help if this conversation triggers you or if you feel you need someone to talk to.
AUSTRALIA:
Lifeline on 13 11 14
Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800
MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978
Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467
Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636
Headspace on 1800 650 890
ReachOut at au.reachout.com
Care Leavers Australia Network (CLAN) on 1800 008 774
INTERNATIONAL:
https://www.thecalmzone.net/2019/10/international-mental-health-charities/
Show Notes: Episode #31
This week Pete chats with a dear friend and colleague Dr. Clark Perry. Clark was the Australian Swimming Team psychologist for 4 Olympic Games. He shares some fascinating insights about what it’s like to maintain or shift a winning identity and we discuss some of the mental health questions being raised by some high-profile athletes.
Show Notes - Episode #30
This week I chatted with my funniest friend – Harriet Beveridge. Seriously, Harriet has performed at the Edinburgh Comedy Festival! We talked about the journey it took to get there. From having the confidence or ignorance to force yourself to apply to the stage and the nerves that show up for most. A conversation full of banter as we discuss the benefits of laughter, humour and anything else to do with making big changes.
Show Notes: Episode #29
Pete chats to old friend and colleague Michael Tipper, who after a number of years they have re-connected virtually and discussed many things, over many hours. In this conversation, Mike reveals some of the recurrent characteristics that have shown up when he’s made some big changes in his life. The biggest one perhaps – knowing when you are being true to yourself and paying attention to any disquiet within you.
Show Notes: Episode #28
This week I chatted with long-time friend and ex-collegue, Julien Prosser. Julien had to make a big shift – from the beach to the office. From bare feet to shoes. From board shorts to suit and tie. Take a listen. Some fascinating insights.
Show Notes: Episode #27
This is the 2nd part of the interview with Anna Raine.
The premise of Freedom Fridays being a choice you make, and yet Anna shares some great insights about the consequence of ‘having to’.
What’s the difference when initially you ‘have to’ and choice is taken away? How do you settle into rituals and practices to settle your nervous system to cope and move through the situation you find yourself in. Our conversation entered flow pretty quickly and extended way beyond what either of us expected so it’s in 2 parts.
Show Notes: Episode #26
This is the first of a two-part interview with Anna Raine.
The premise of Freedom Fridays being a choice you make, and yet Anna shares some great insights about the consequence of ‘having to’.
What’s the difference when initially you ‘have to’ and choice is taken away? How do you settle into rituals and practices to settle your nervous system to cope and move through the situation you find yourself in. Our conversation entered flow pretty quickly and extended way beyond what either of us expected so it’s in 2 parts.
Show Notes: Episode #25
This week was predominantly about slowing down and looking up.
Pete interviews long-time friend Andy Foster on the big change that he's made in his life. Pete and Andy discuss the cause of the change and the importance of telling yourself a better story.
Show Notes: Episode #24
This week is about Freedom Mondays.
Dougie Samuel is an old buddy of Pete's that lives in Edinburgh. Dougie experienced an event in his life three years ago that set about changing how he structured his life and made him realign his values.
This conversation is full of whispers that have the potential to inspire change in your life.
Show Notes: Episode #23
This week was a conversation with Pete's soul buddy, Colin Hiles about the power of “I have to…”.
Definitely worth a listen.
Show Notes: Episode #22
This week is predominantly about the 21st whisper – of course, it had to be!
Pete shares the story behind 21 Whispers and the five whispers that are causing change in his life.
Show Notes: Episode #21
As the Australian financial year comes to an end Pete spends some time reflecting on where he's at now and his plans for the future.
Pete questions whether the business is a vehicle for him to live the life he wants for himself and his family or whether he is a servant of the business.
He ponders whether his gratitude for where he is at now is diluting his ambition.
And also takes a look at one of his signature moves when facilitating a group and is inspired by a few insightful questions which help him see things in a different light.
Show Notes: Episode #20
We're back to a solo episode with Pete reflecting on the past couple of interviews, the concept of starting ugly, and a few questions that may help you find a place of peace when all around is in chaos. Pete also talks about his guilt at committing to keeping Fridays for his own plans and upcoming plans for developing his craft.
Show Notes: Episode #19
This week is Pete's second interview with ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
Craig Buller has chosen to move out of the family home. Craig has been on this block of land for 30 years. Raised his 3 boys there and said goodbye to his wife, who has passed away.
This is the family home. There are a lot of memories and a lot of 'stuff' connected to this house. It's a big change for Craig. Craig talks about how he's gone about making the change and gives some advice to others looking to make a big change.
Show Notes: Episode #18
This week Pete launches his first interview with ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
Alex Moffat gets up and goes to work every day but in the background he's been moonlighting as a magician for the past 30 years. Alex talks about his passion for magic, where it started, how he's continued with it, and how a lot of his learns from magic - the principles, concepts, and psychology - appear in his leadership role.
It's an interesting interview, well worth a listen.
Show Notes: Episode #17
This week Pete considers music and the power of really listening to it and the feelings and story that come from that. He also considers the events that are happening on the periphery of our lives, how instructive can they be? These are events that happen to someone elses' family, a mate, or a colleague. The events that you're one degree removed from, how instructive can they be to your life? And finally, Pete ponders a couple of very simple questions that can have a big impact. The simple answer is yes, but how much are you really allowing to happen to you?
Show Notes: Episode #16
This week has been described as an invisible week. Pete can't believe where the time has gone since last week and this. We all know the feeling of getting caught up in the busi-ness of life rather than the business of life and poof, the week has vanished.
This week Pete looks at the phrase - inspiration is free and application costs us, the concept of the infinity loop - balancing inner fulfillment and external achievement, and an internal environmental audit looking at the things that are most important to us. Pete also commits to speaking to some of the ordinary people out there doing extraordinary things, with the hope of giving listeners insight into how we can achieve great things.
Show Notes: Episode #15
A different rambling for this episode, this episode is a reflection from Pete on losing his Dad at a young age.
Show Notes: Episode #13
This week has been all about Thursday. Yep, Thursday. Let me explain...
Show Notes: Episode #12
In comparison to last week, which was a nothing week, this week was an everything week. Pete took the time to sit with his feelings and thoughts from the previous week and has followed up with a more balanced and productive week. He took the time to be self-indulgent and relished the positive impacts that had on his mindset. Pete also reflects on showing up as your best possible self in all aspects of your life.
Show Notes: Episode #11
This week, for the first time, has been a nothing week, literally nothing! So what does my nothing week tell me? It reinforces the ebb and flow of life. Sometimes you're really on and you're having a smashing week. And then, suddenly, the opposite happens. I'll reflect on my nervousness around committing to something new on Fridays and I'll leave you with something to ponder - is what you're doing worth what it's doing to you?
Show Notes: Episode #10
This week was a messy murky week. Pete talks about the messy bit in the middle bit of change, being able to express what’s going on without invalidating your feelings, and the concept of desirability bias.
Show Notes: Episode #9
Episode #8 is predominantly about making invisible progress through the balance of inner fulfilment and outer achievement.
Show Notes: Episode #8
This week was an enlightening and terrifying week. Episode #7 is predominantly about how prone we are to pick up on the energy and beliefs from others and society’s expectations of us.
Show Notes: Episode #7
This week Pete touches on his anxiety when not in control and his response to some anecdotal feedback.
Show Notes: Episode #6
This week was predominantly all about creating the space for grace and navigating several paradoxes that can be both a blessing and a curse.
Show Notes: Episode #5
Pete talks about his surprise at finding the only scheduled item in his diary for this week was the hold for Friday – to have a Freedom Friday.
In a few short weeks, the podcast has evolved from the idea of having Fridays off to a reflection of Pete's fears, hopes, dreams, and concerns. The podcast is no longer about having Fridays off but more about the move from "I have to", to the freedom of "I choose to".
Pete also shares some new ideas on how he can use his Fridays to help others. He’s filled his cup up over the past few weeks and can now look outside and see what else he could be doing.
Show Notes: Episode #4
Pete reflects on his observations of the mind games he plays with himself and shares four main insights that he’s learned this past week.
Show Notes: Episode #3
Pete Clark explores adding life to his years by taking Fridays off from work.
Whilst Pete didn’t do as well as he had intended this week – only rating himself just above a pass – Pete lets you know what he achieved and the thoughts and inner-commentary that kept him from publishing his first podcast. Big changes don’t come easy. Pete is hoping that what he learns will help others make big changes in their lives.
Show Notes: Episode #2
I believe that time is our most precious and finite commodity. If the past year has taught us anything, it has emphasised this and the importance of time with family and friends. I'm also aware of Parkinson's Law which is the premise that work expands to the time that we give it. My experiment is to limit time by reclaiming Fridays to see if I can get done in four days what would normally take me five.
Show Notes: Episode #1