Doing Epic Stuff: Recent Episodes
Mike Drohan
Do you sometimes feel a little bit like a living dichotomy? The kind of cat who defines success as much by 'enjoying the present' as 'achieving tangible goals'? Indiana-Jones-sense-of-adventure meets Penny-from-Inspector-Gadget-strategic-thinker? Well, you're not alone. This podcast is for you. The multipotentialite with a growth mindset. Eager to explore, learn and grow, for life. The kind of individual who has come to understand a universal truth: that just about every thing that's good for us is on the other side of The Struggle and it's all about the journey. Join your host; Mike Drohan, as we explore the stories and journeys of ordinary people, just like you, doing their extraordinary things. 'Cause, if you're not truly excited about the next step, why take it? #DoingEpicStuff
In this episode of The Doing Epic Stuff Podcast I trade words with the infectiously affable Kenny Robertson (née Kurniawan), Community Leader of Startspace; a free business support service specifically for new and early-stage business founders, provided by State Library Victoria.
I love Kennie.
She makes everyone else around her feel good and that’s a rare and powerful thing, especially in the early-stage founder community where wins and effort aren’t necessarily in harmony.
Having personally been a member of Startspace for some time (this very episode was recorded, edited and produced on location but, full disclosure, not in the spiffy dedicated podcasting facility, hence the low-level bg noise…) eventually having Kennie behind the mic felt like a no-brainer. We unpack her entrepreneurial aspirations, side quests and setbacks from humble origins selling handmade bracelets to Indonesian classmates to being a one-time Co-Founder of a Sustainable Tourism start-up.
A spell in corporate retail followed by a shock resignation was soon followed by a sojourn to Melbourne, Australia. But it wasn’t until Kennie returned to her native land that the potential to financially leverage others' desires to explore the nation of over 100 active volcanoes became clear to her.
An apparent step back taken in order to gain a better view…
There are all manner of hard-earned experience gems to be discovered from our discussion; navigating challenging co-founder partnerships, the pitfalls of a thriving business built upon an unclear (primary) product/market fit and tips on managing our mental health when our big idea becomes our biggest problem.
Dig it.
& don’t forget to be YOUR Epic!
Mike Drohan
This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit doingepicstuff.substack.com
Welcome to the Doing Epic Stuff podcast with your host Mike Drohan. Together we’ll explore the stories and journeys of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
Man, being an entrepreneur is a real test. It just is.
There are no safety nets.
No cheer squad when you’re feeling sh*tty about progress (or lack of).
No ‘easy days’ where you can just coast, safe in the knowledge that there will be a pay-check at end of the week.
It’s all
on
YOU!
But for some, such as Dagobert Ranouf and his wife Lucy, co-founders of design software-as-a-service start-up known as Logology, there simply is no other choice...
One of the few newsletters I subscribe to and always make time to read is called Indie Hackers – what’s an Indie Hacker?
(noun)
- person building an online project that can generate revenue
- person seeking financial independence, creative freedom, and the ability to work on their own schedule
It was within this very newsletter that I first heard of man-like-Dagobert-Ranouf and his truly EPIC entrepreneurial journey - an engrossing story about the shifting fortunes of the digital entrepreneur, the perils of a poor co-founder match and how authenticity and vulnerability have underpinned a last-ditch marketing strategy which has put Logology on a trajectory to success and made Dagobert an unlikely influencer in the Twittersphere.
Enjoy and remember to be YOUR Epic!
Mike
Show notes:
- Dagobert’s rather excellent start-up ‘Logology’ – get a designer-quality logo for your start-up in 5 minutes:https://www.logology.co/
- Dagobert’s Twitter account – the heart and soul of his iconic meme-heavy marketing strategy: https://twitter.com/dagorenouf
- The Indie Hackers newsletter which I personally subscribe to/first heard about Dagobert Ranouf: https://www.indiehackers.com/newsletter
Digging Doing Epic Stuff?
- Hit your boy up on The Bird (Twitter): @BehindTheEpicStuff or email (mike@doingepicstuff.com) or Insta https://www.instagram.com/doingepicstuff/?hl=en
- Delve into the complete DES Podcast back catalogue: https://www.doingepicstuff.com/episodes
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Welcome to the Doing Epic Stuff podcast with your host Mike Drohan. Together we’ll explore the stories and journeys of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
Steve Chapman is one of the most interesting people I’ve had the pleasure of meeting during my time on earth.
‘The “(NOT A) LOST CAT”’ project is a prime example of the weird and wonderful pastimes Steve engages in. A hand painted re-production of an original, actual lost cat poster. Steve has now personally re-printed and re-issued his re-production to hundreds of intrigued individuals across the globe who have gone on to display the poster in almost every country on earth.
I’m 100% serious – the world map is in the show notes...
A Ted X speaker, prolific creative and holder of an MSc in Organisational Change, Steve’s professional life began on a very different trajectory. Having been convinced, by the commonly held belief amongst his secondary school teachers, that he was "either lazy or just not that bright (or both)" - his difficulties in learning, love of whacky doodling, bizarre storytelling and ad-hoc creating (ofttimes during math class) apparently weren't applicable to a 'respectable' adult life..
This episode is an exploration of un-tapping our creative potential.
- Can we de-tune the fixed way we see the world?
- How much of what we do is actually who we are or just a product of social constructs and what happens once we start to challenge them?
- What is the improvisers mindset and how has Steve leveraged it to create some of the most interesting and audacious projects you’ve never heard of?
Enjoy this full-of-unreal ep. of the Doing Epic Stuff podcast
Show notes:Please consider supporting Steve by purchasing a piece of his artwork!! All info is within his website and IG (below)
- All things Steve https://www.shop.canscorpionssmoke.com/product/not-a-lost-cat-poster/
- Hosier lane: Melbourne’s most celebrated laneway for street art: https://www.instagram.com/hosierla/?hl=en
- The Power of Neurodiversity (referred to in the podcast as ‘The Gift of…’) which Steve refers to in the context of special needs classes: https://www.booktopia.com.au/the-power-of-neurodiversity-thomas-armstrong/book/9780738215242.html
- ‘The Art of Creative Resilience’ – a talk Steve gave which references in relation ‘tuning in’ to signals our body/mind is giving us to help decipher our real feelings toward a given situation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rhcp3pozaHI
- 9 Meals from Anarchy repay Steve in vegan cooking stock! https://www.ninemealsfromanarchy.co.uk/
Digging Doing Epic Stuff?
- Hit your boy up on The Bird (Twitter): @BehindTheEpicStuff email (mike@doingepicstuff.com) or Insta https://www.instagram.com/doingepicstuff/?hl=en
- Delve into the complete DES Podcast back catalogue here
- Join the fortnightly newsletter: https://mailchimp.doingepicstuff.com/subscribe
Welcome to the Doing Epic Stuff podcast with your host Mike Drohan. Together we’ll explore the stories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
“What I was attempting to do was tell society what they wanted to hear. Or what I thought they wanted to hear, which was to have this Alpha Bravo male who doesn’t talk about pain. Who doesn’t talk about vulnerability and I was like ‘it’s actually killing me.’ – and it nearly did get to that point.”
There’s something very refreshing about someone in a position of power having the courage to be vulnerable.
Indeed, Ben Vasiliou, CEO of Youth Projects and a driving force behind their revolutionary Social Enterprise; The Little Social Cafe, credits that same vulnerability with being the catalyst for major positive change both in his professional and personal life.
Having navigated a life below the poverty line, identity crisis, being a young father and the trials of the top position at an organisation committed to breaking the cycle of disadvantage – Ben has an extraordinary story to share with us.
A special shoutout to Banyule City Council whom Ben credits with having the vision and resources to make the Little Social Café in Rosanna, Melbourne a reality. If you’re listening to this podcast and based in Melbourne, Australia, do make sure to swing past, grab a delicious coffee for yourself and sprinkle some kindness into someone’s day through their ‘pay-it-forward service’: purchase a drink or snack for someone experiencing homelessness or accessing Youth Projects' homelessness services.
EPIC stuff within this episode:
- Even an award winning CEO can balls things up from time to time!
- Un-packing Youth Projects: providing support (since the 80s!) to young people and individuals experiencing disadvantage, unemployment, homelessness, alcohol and other drug issues
- Exploring the power of vulnerability and how sharing yourstory can be a vehicle for good
- How to be part of the solution to 116K Australians living homeless and 1 in 8 being below the poverty line
- All about the Little Social Café and how it’s reaffirming a vision of young people being good-to-go in a very competitive job market whilst also providing a sustainable, financially viable business model
Show notes:
- Youth Projects (Ben is CEO): https://www.youthprojects.org.au/who-we-are
- The Little Social Cafe (Social Enterprise) - get down there and 'pay it forward'!: https://www.youthprojects.org.au/social-enterprise
- Skills Plus: a not-for-profit which Ben was formerly the GM: https://skillsplus.com.au/
- Banyule City Council “the reason why that (The Little Social) has been successful” according to Ben: https://www.banyule.vic.gov.au/About-us
Digging Doing Epic Stuff? Hit your boy up:
- Twitter @BehindTheEpicStuff
- Email: mike@doingepicstuff.com
- Insta: https://www.instagram.com/doingepicstuff/?hl=en
- DES Podcast back catalogue here
- Fortnightly newsletter: https://mailchimp.doingepicstuff.com/subscribe
Ever had a job where, no matter how good you are at it, you can still get fired at any given moment?
Pretty stressful, right?
“I could come in and do a terrific job on a team, get them in wonderful physical shape, but if for some reason the performances don’t ensue, ‘cause it’s a win/loss outcome-based environment, you might still lose your job. So, there’s not always that job security with what I do because, at the elite level, you’ve gotta win. "
Russell Jarret has managed to sustain a career as an elite Physical Performance/Strength and Conditioning Coach for over 30 years.
That’s A LOT of early starts and burpees…
Now a proven key player behind the players, his interest in the elite fitness training profession was originally piqued by an inspiring Physical Education teacher. Russell has since worked with some of Australia’s most elite sporting organisations including the Australian Football League, Australian Institute of Sport, Cricket Australia, Women’s National Basketball League, Australian Basketball League and elite level Golf and Tennis as well as literally thousands of individual and group sessions.
Then, out of nowhere, the national personal training industry is scuttled overnight…
“Lockdown two really punched a hole in us because, when we got locked down a second time it was probably a bit longer, actually, and we’d done all of those things to remain relevant and to remain front of mind and we had no more tricks up our sleeve…"
We chat mindset and methods to navigate major change in our lives, the benefit in having a side hustle, how our physical exercise needs to adapt to complement our age AND there’s even some time to throw a couple of questions at Russell provided by Doing Epic Stuff listeners.
EPIC.
BTW: if you dig the episode, I’d greatly appreciate a review on your preferred podcast listening platform - the more awareness we create together the closer we get to a world where everyone has the opportunity to pursue their epic stuff.
Show notes:
- Russell's website incl. his online courses: http://www.russelljarrett.com.au/
- All kinds of interesting stuff on his Insta: https://www.instagram.com/russell_jarrett1/
If you enjoyed this episode of the DES podcast or are onboard with my mission of empowering more people to find and follow their extraordinary, more of the time, please consider subscribing to the fortnightly eNewsletter. It features some snackable epic content, the latest DES developments and a heads-up on upcoming episodes: https://mailchimp.doingepicstuff.com/subscribe
or catch me on the web: doingepicstuff.com
We out!
doingepicstuff #entrepreneur #motivation
Ever flirted with the idea of turning your favourite hobby, passion or side-hustle into your career?
Dave Walker knows a thing or two about it and, as anyone who has bravely ditched the grind to pursue the glory of a passion led career would know, it doesn't always pan out exactly how you'd envisaged...
“You just chew it out in three hours, they don’t like it, so you do another one. I was like… ‘I think I might be dead inside?!’”
More than a little obsessed with collecting 90s nostalgia memorabilia, Dave is the kind of dude who imports entire seasons of obscure-sci-fi-dramas-on-lazer-disk-from Japan.
As American rapper ‘Dom Kennedy’ would affirm: “This is My Type of Party”…
His endless love for the table top game; Warhammer 40,000, or 40K to the less-filthy casual, is the primary subject matter for his wildly entertaining and unexpected hit YouTube channel: MS_Paints which I happened to stumbled across one Sunday whilst DEEP down a lockdown DIY margarita session/YouTube algorithm fuelled content rabbit hole.
As it would turn out the show’s title had far heavier connotations than just a tongue-in-cheek reference to a Microsoft painting tool; The main impetus behind Dave creating the channel being his unexpected diagnosis of bastard degenerative autoimmune disease: Multiple Sclerosis or M.S.
MS_Paints is his way of dealing with that particular S-O-A-B whilst also championing positive values in a ofttimes male-toxic wargaming community, changing the perception of disabilities and the pursuit of hobbies that require fine motor skills, with a disability.
**EPIC.
Show notes:**
- The MS_Paints YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCaUQbazFa3BDEu_6I84s1Zg
- Dave’s Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/user?u=30912887
- Dave’s Insta (where you can see some of the MS_Paints characters incl. ‘Health and Safety’ Frog and his miniature-hungry cat): https://www.instagram.com/ms_paints_/
If you enjoyed this episode of the DES podcast/want to get onboard with my mission of empowering more people to find and follow their extraordinary, more of the time, please consider subscribing to the fortnightly eNewsletter. It features some snackable content, latest DES developments and a heads-up on upcoming episodes: https://mailchimp.doingepicstuff.com/subscribe
Catch me on the web: doingepicstuff.com
Or, love to hear form you on Twitter: @BehindTheEpic
We out!
doingepicstuff #entrepreneur #motivation #warhammer #paintingwarhammer #multiplesclerosis #gamesworkshop #ms
“Maybe 17 years ago, as I was doing orthopaedics, I just started to feel like ‘oh my god, these people, much like myself with my injuries, never really get better’ right? You kind of get them sort of better – you have a broken leg, you can fix a broken leg and come back (to normal) but most injuries just end up being ongoing, nagging problems.”
Dr Elizabeth Yurth is the Co-Founder and Medical Director of Boulder Longevity Institute, Colorado.
She’s been providing Tomorrow’s Medicine Today since 2006.
What does that actually mean?!
Literally regenerating people.
Think 1985 science-fiction comedy-drama film ‘Cocoon’ but in real life!
She’s the most extensive professionally accredited individual I’ve ever had on the Doing Epic Stuff podcast. Seriously, she has multiple paragraphs of medical industry certifications. It’s actually a little bit intimidating!
An avid skier since childhood, plagued by repeated debilitating injuries, @dryurth, now THE authority on regenerative/longevity medicine and co-founder of @boulderlongevityinstitute , initially sought to break the repeat injury cycle by seriously leaning into a career in orthopaedics: surgery concerned with the musculoskeletal system.
Eventually, stonewalled by those very same frustrations (patients returning with repeat injusries) and a system which appeared to be counterintuitive to long-term patient rehabilitation, she went maverick! Doubling down on epigenetics and other innovative regenerative treatments in combination with a holistic approach to wellness that is at the sharpest part of the cutting edge of this medicine.
This is a seriously valuable conversation for anyone interested in living longer and better, improving lifestyle or just optimising your you. I even manage to sneak in a Keto diet question from past DES podcast guest: @sylviemuay aka Sylvie von Duuglas-Ittu, the Muay Thai legend with 268 professional fights and no signs of slowing down. EPIC!
Subject matterBlue Zones
Longevity hacks
Community and its effect on your longevity
Epigenetics (modifying our genes)
Genetics misnomers
Why you should NEVER stop pumping iron
The best cardio format for longevity (hint; it isn’t running)
Where does Pilates fit in the longevity puzzle?
Powernaps: Good? Bad? Ugly?
The importance of restoring and maintaining your circadian rhythm and how to do it.
Fasting: why it’s good for us and recommended methods for optimal results
Sex: is ‘getting busy’ killing us?!
EPIC Stuff
- Got a big idea for a future guest, show feedback of just like to chat? Holler at your boy, Mike: https://twitter.com/BehindEpicStuff
- Sign-up for a fortnightly dose of inbox delivered, snackable EPIC content delights: https://mailchimp.doingepicstuff.com/subscribe
- HQ: doingepicstuff.com
Show notes
- Lumosity the brain training mobile app I personally use to prep for a podcast/stave off laziness/punish myself for a hangover and combat cognitive degeneration. https://www.lumosity.com/en/
- Action Bronson (aka my favourite rapper living) who has successfully transformed from blunt smoking, extravagant eating, behemoth to fitness obsessed, extravagant eating in smaller portions, fit-behemoth: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qumFCN1yLOA
- Learn about Blue Zones: places around the globe where people are living longer, happier lives: https://www.bluezones.com/
- Not sure where to begin on your own Longevity Quest? Check out Dr Yurth’s ‘What to fix first’ course:&am
“So, one of the greatest things that my students can do is not follow my direction. I love it. ‘Wow! you just came up with another way for me to teach this!’”
David Razowsky is the improviser’s improviser.
He’s also exceptionally good at cognitively reframing: turning the negative into the positive - a no-doubt valuable asset for one who has dedicated their life to performing completely unscripted.
Balls to the wall, no safety net, improvisational acting.
The kind of performing that, when it goes disastrously wrong, can make for great YouTube content; ‘oh my god, this person is dying on stage’ kind of stuff…
Having held the Artistic Director position at the prestigious Second City Centre, Los Angeles and performed alongside the likes of Steve Carell, Stephen Colbert, Jeff Garlin and Amy Sedaris, this is a man who knows a thing or two about The Art of Winging It.
The ability to improvise Is something I’ve personally held a lifelong fascination for, no doubt inspired by the Golden Era Hip Hop I grew up listening to; Big L, Tupac, Biggie, Method Man – rappers from an era when the ability to freestyle was tantamount to the size of your reputation and your record contract.
As a podcast host; the ability to be fully engaged with my guest whilst steering toward (or away!) from certain topics is one of the most challenging aspects of the game.
That balancing act between being in the moment and being in control – or as David would likely suggest; relinquishing control.
David is a master of this dance. He’s considered a bit of a maverick, in the improvisation world, as his ‘present awareness’ improvisation method, really demands that practitioners forget all of their preconceptions about why, how and what improvisation is and completely drop their ego. As you can imagine; this has not been positively received by all members of the performing arts community…
“A major revelation I had is that everybody’s opinion of me is none of my business and that was just one of those great things (to learn): ‘Oh… Oh, I don’t care what you think! It’s not my business! I don’t spend any time thinking about you.’”
Show notes
- David’s website: https://www.davidrazowsky.com/
- Old town ale house: best Dive Bar in Chicago – the drinking hole where David and fellow Second City teachers and students would hang out after class: http://www.theoldtownalehouse.com/
- California Summer arts festival, care of California State University, whom David works with: https://www.calstate.edu/SummerArts/Festival/Pages/default.aspx
- The book about meditation David mentions: https://www.amazon.com/Buddhism-Not-What-You-Think/dp/0060730579
If you enjoyed this episode of the DES podcast or are onboard with my mission of empowering more people to find and follow their extraordinary, more of the time, please consider subscribing to the fortnightly eNewsletter. It features some snackable epic content, the latest DES developments and a heads-up on upcoming episodes: https://mailchimp.doingepicstuff.com/subscribe
or catch me on the web: doingepicstuff.com
We out!
doingepicstuff #entrepreneur #motivation #whatinspiresme #inspiration
“To give you an indication, it was like 8 o’clock in the morning or 8:30 in the morning, the doors were pretty close to opening, and I’m sitting there with the AV (audio visual) guys, trying to work out how to get video in and, audio out...”
That’s Marco Rosano, co-founder of the NO/BS ‘Digital Reality Check’ digital/tech/design conference that almost wasn’t...
The disconcerting situation which Marco found himself (on opening morning!) was a ripple effect from a global pandemic that was only just being felt in Australia.
A number of high-profile speakers booked for the conference had pulled out at the 11th hour, leaving Marco and team in a mad scramble to try and deliver a hybrid live/remote solution, to a paying audience, on a completely unrehearsed digital platform.
Having heard rumblings of a major health issue back in December 2019, Marco, like the vast majority of Australian’s had no way of knowing the magnitude of what was soon to follow.
“I remember saying to Jay (Marco’s business partner and co-founder of the conference) 'don’t worry, it’ll probably blow over by the time the conference rolls around!'"
As it would turn out, the NO/BS digital conference would literally be the last public event before the party was officially over until further notice.
“We were on a bar across the road there on Russell st, with some of the speakers, maybe ten or twenty of the attendees as well having a good drink we finished up about one in the morning. 7 in the morning the Grand Prix was cancelled."
Find out what it took to get this boot-strapped, purpose led digital/design/tech conference off the ground, against the odds and the grain in this episode of The Doing Epic Stuff Podcast.
Show notes
- All about past and future NO/BS events: https://nobs.events/
- The Digital Advertising Agency of which Marco is a co-founder/partner: https://soulandwolf.com.au/
If you enjoyed this episode of the DES podcast or are onboard with our mission of empowering more people to find and follow their extraordinary, more of the time, please consider subscribing to the fortnightly eNewsletter. It features some snackable epic content, the latest DES developments and a heads-up on upcoming episodes: https://mailchimp.doingepicstuff.com/subscribe
doingepicstuff.com
We out!
doingepicstuff #entrepreneur #motivation #whatinspiresme #inspiration
“I feel like I’ve been doing it my entire life, and I still have that passion. When I wake up in the morning and go into the fire station I... I’m, you know, living the dream!”
Haisely O’Leary is clearly stoked to be Station Officer at New Plymouth Fire Station 61, New Zealand.
Husband to legendary Ultra Marathon Runner; Lisa Tamati, it’s no surprise that Haisely is also not a stranger to pavement pounding across disturbing distances - we catch-up whilst he’s in training for an upcoming, EPIC 100-mile race. Good luck with that, Haisely!
What’s the driving force behind Haisley’s storied 25-year career in the FENZ and what can be learned from an individual who has fostered long-term comradery and respect from colleagues without the ‘Alpha’ style approach to leadership?
What makes one choose to run for that long?!
Having ran (limped..) a measly marathon distance myself and experienced the loopiness that can go on in the brain department during 4 hours+ in the hamster wheel, I’d long ago formed the opinion that people who were willing to spend THAT much time in the saddle are just as likely to be running away from something as they are ‘toward’…
There’s a lot to unpack and learn from this unassuming everyday hero.
I hope you enjoy the episode.
Show notes
- Haisley’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haisleyj/?hl=en
- For anyone interested in getting into running, improving your times and technique or you might already be in-training for an event: Lisa Tamati (Haisley’s Wife) is offering Doing Epic Stuff listeners a FREE 8-week, strength and conditioning course. You can check it out on her website: www.strength.lisatamati.com
If you enjoyed this episode of the DES podcast or are onboard with our mission of empowering more people to find and follow their extraordinary, more of the time, please consider subscribing to the fortnightly eNewsletter. It features some snackable epic content, the latest DES developments and a heads-up on upcoming episodes: https://mailchimp.doingepicstuff.com/subscribe
doingepicstuff.com
We out!
DoingEpicStuff #startuplife #lockdown
“I’m ultimately seduced by ideas and, I don’t think about ‘if I did this, I could make x’, it was more like: ‘I LOVE doing this, how can I make a living out of it?' You know?”
Jeffrey Madoff is the author of Creative Careers: Making a Living with Your Ideas. A book born from a course he taught at Parsons School of Design - a private art and design college located in Lower Manhattan, New York.
During these legendary lectures, Jeff would interview an accomplished individual on their ideas about success. Think turning up to university/college to have bestselling author (and my personal favourite podcast host); Tim Ferris, supermodel; Karlie Kloss or chief marketing officer for eBay; Richelle Parham, seated at the front of the class, ready to provide candid insight to their professional journeys.
EPIC.
So, how does one get Ralph Lauren, head of the legendary fashion empire of the same name, on their personal contacts list?
What can we learn from a man who has successfully navigated fashion, advertising, production and even playwrighting whilst championing a ‘passion first’ mindset?
How did a seemingly ordinary kid from Wisconsin take on and topple The Biggest of Apples (aka New York)?
Show notes
- Jeff’s rather excellent book: https://www.amazon.com.au/Creative-Careers-Making-Living-Ideas/dp/0738246700
- Australian audience note: you may not be able to purchase the kindle version as it is country restricted…
- Jeff’s ‘life in New York’ Insta that I’m really digging - “every day I find something cool” https://www.instagram.com/jeff_madoff/
- Jeff’s ‘A Creative Career’ Insta which includes video snippets, quotes and other goodies: https://www.instagram.com/acreativecareer/
If you enjoyed this episode of the DES podcast or are onboard with our mission of empowering more people to find and follow their extraordinary, more of the time, please consider subscribing to the fortnightly eNewsletter. It features some snackable epic content, the latest DES developments and a heads-up on upcoming episodes: https://mailchimp.doingepicstuff.com/subscribe or dig on the website for a complete back catalogue: doingepicstuff.com
We out!
DoingEpicStuff #LicenseToThrill #SwitchGrooves #LvlUp #SomeWayfindingRequired #Start-up #Bootstrap #startups #melbournelockdown #bootstrap
“It’s important that people take their own responsibility for mental toughness and resilience. If you’re not training yourself the worlds training you and guess what? The world wants you to be weak so don’t let that happen.”
Mark Divine does not mince words.
A former Navy SEAL Commander who saw 20 years of service.
A successful author, serial entrepreneur and host of The Unbeatable Mind Podcast.
In 1989 Mark was on a trajectory to becoming a professional desk jockey having obtained both his MBA and CPA. But The Call of The Warrior was too great and, nurtured through the teachings of SEIDO karate Grandmaster Tadashi Nakamura, Mark effectively traded in his calculator for a carbine automatic rifle.
Why would one transition from comfortable number cruncher to a career where the only easy day was yesterday and a bad day could literally punch your ticket?
What knowledge did Master Nakamura bestow upon Mark which not only gave him the mental edge as an aspiring SEAL; graduating as Honor Man of BUD/S (Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL) Class number 170 (the notorious 26 week SEAL Qualification Training program) but also the keys to unlock a literally unbeatable mindset?!
Aside from all of that EPIC stuff, I deep-dive into the methods behind the man.
What I uncover challenges even my own beliefs as a ‘Lone Wolf’ entrepreneur.
Show notes
- All things Unbeatable Mind (Mark’s businesses, books, podcast and online courses): https://unbeatablemind.com/
- Background information on Tadashi Nakamura: Mark’s Karate/ZEN mindset instructor: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tadashi_Nakamura_(martial_artist)
If you enjoyed this episode of the DES podcast or are onboard with our mission of empowering more people to find and follow their extraordinary, more of the time, please consider subscribing to the fortnightly eNewsletter.
It features some snackable epic content, the latest DES developments and a heads-up on upcoming episodes: https://mailchimp.doingepicstuff.com/subscribe
Or dig on the website: www.doingepicstuff.com
We out!
DoingEpicStuff #LicenseToThrill #SwitchGrooves #LvlUp #SomeWayfindingRequired #BeYOUREpic #CreateYourBalance #DoingMakesMeFeelGood #podcast
“If you’re gonna do something you’ve never done before you kinda have to become somebody you’ve never been before.”
That’s internationally recognised speaker and author Bobby Cappuccio.
Bobby has spent the last 20 plus years pushing for a health and fitness training industry paradigm shift: from a solely external, goal-oriented approach to a more holistic approach, focussed upon behaviour change.
In essence; more gains through dem brains!
To state that Bobby is coming from a place of experience is a major understatement
PAUSE
Before I get too deep into this episode, I’m going to issue the following proviso: it really deserves to be listened to more than once.
The sheer breadth of insight provided by Bobby is going to have you pausing and rewinding.
I did warn you in advance.
It could be argued that part of the human condition is to form beliefs about ourselves based upon our interpretations of things that have happened to us.
The trauma and physical disadvantages that Bobby had bestowed upon him at birth;
Orphan.
Tourette’s Syndrome.
Physical deformities.
Abuse.
gave Bobby every reason to believe his life was sh*t and that was all it would amount to.
Rather than end up in the bottom of a bottle, Bobby found a way to create his own Michelangelo’s David. Systematically carving away his perceived constraints to uncover an innate ability to bring out the EPIC in others through fitness training – a realisation which has led him to the very top of the Health and Fitness industry.
Join Bobby and I as we explore behaviour change, contribution as a vehicle for discovering our purpose and the fickle nature of self-beliefs in this episode of the doing epic stuff podcast.
Show notes
- https://www.robertcappuccio.com/about
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Transtheoretical_model
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-determination_theory
If you enjoyed this episode of the DES podcast and are onboard with my mission to empower more people to find and follow their extraordinary, more of the time, please consider subscribing to the fortnightly eNewsletter. It features some snackable epic content, the latest DES project development news and a heads-up on upcoming episodes: https://mailchimp.doingepicstuff.com/subscribe
www.doingepicstuff.com
We out!
DoingEpicStuff #LicenseToThrill #SwitchGrooves #LvlUp #SomeWayfindingRequired #BeYOUREpic #CreateYourBalance #DoingMakesMeFeelGood #podcast
“I almost got scared for a while, to pursue things I was passionate about because I didn’t know how to manage it. How do you pursue your passion whilst keeping your own wellbeing balanced?”
- Helena Chen
At the ripe old age of 23 (a time when I was primarily concerned about busting moves on the dancefloor) Helena Chen was successfully executing upon her very own program (a little bit Operation Treadstone à la The Bourne Identity in nature)... #LicenseToThrill
Whereas the aim of Operation Treadstone was to produce a generation of emotionless-killing machine-Super-Soldiers, the aim of Helena’s program was to produce a new era of conscious capitalist University Grads. The cream of the Grad crop armed with a higher purpose than maximum financial gain at all costs.
The first generation of fit-for-purpose corporate leaders for good.
Helena was without a doubt 10 years ahead of her time with this thinking. The proof was in corporate entities seeking inclusion with the pilot program and, more importantly to Helena, the overwhelmingly positive impact it had on the participants. There was even talks of it being incorporated into Postgraduate studies!
But all that passion, drive and commitment came at a heavy cost. Helena had put her mission before her wellbeing and before she knew it, she was totally burned out.
Where do we go when we lose ourselves in an idea? How do we find ourselves again?
Join Helena and I as we explore this EPIC peep's story of aspiration, determination and redemption.
If you enjoyed this episode of the DES podcast or are onboard with our mission of empowering more people to find and follow their extraordinary, more of the time, please consider subscribing to the fortnightly eNewsletter. It features some snackable epic content, the latest DES developments and a heads-up on upcoming episodes: https://mailchimp.doingepicstuff.com/subscribe
doingepicstuff.com
We out!
DoingEpicStuff
#LicenseToThrill
#SwitchGrooves
#LvlUp
#SomeWayfindingRequired
#BeYOUREpic
#CreateYourBalance
#DoingMakesMeFeelGood
#podcast
“Sometimes when you know too much you can actually hinder yourself and when you don’t; you’re naive and you just bowl on in. Sometimes that’s when you’ll get the best results.”
- Lisa Tamati is the epic persons epic person.
Whenever I've referenced her to past guests it has inevitably elicited a response somewhere in the vicinity of awe.
I could easily have filled an entire episode with the retelling of any one of Lisa’s epic quests:
- Crossing the Libyan dessert by foot whilst avoiding army patrols (way what?)
- Completing 140 Ultra Marathons (and counting)
- Rehabilitating her mother from a devastating brain aneurism to a near full recovery despite all advice to the contrary given by multiple medical professionals. EPICCCC!
But I am compelled to explore the human BEHIND the extraordinary.
What follows is a candid discussion with a human doing epic.
Lisa was gracious enough to open up about the challenges of being a multifaceted entrepreneur / elite sports person and to delve into some lesser-known adventures in the process; gate-crashing a Basel world exhibition with nothing but a bag of precious Paua pearls and crazy infectious enthusiasm?
EPIC!
This episode is especially relevant to those considering or actively pursuing a living from their ideas. Those crazy few willing to 'take the red pill' and journey deep into the vocation void.
Dig into bio hacking, the power of determination and the risk in being the epitome of grit when it comes to pursuing the entrepreneur life in this episode of the Doing Epic Stuff Podcast.
Show notes:
- Interested in the EPIC Time Mastery course I have been developing and beta-tested with Lisa Tamati so she can take control of her time / tasks? https://www.doingepicstuff.com/etminquiry
- Lisa’s ‘Pushing The Limits’ podcast: https://www.lisatamati.com/podcast/
- Lisa’s eCommerce store incl. her books and anti-ageing supplements: https://shop.lisatamati.com/
- https://www.instagram.com/lisatamati/
If you enjoyed this episode of the DES podcast or are onboard with our mission of empowering more people to find and follow their extraordinary, more of the time, please consider subscribing to the fortnightly eNewsletter. It features some snackable epic content, the latest DES developments and a heads-up on upcoming episodes: mailchimp.doingepicstuff.com/subscribe
We out!
DoingEpicStuff
#LicenseToThrill
#SwitchGrooves
#LvlUp
#SomeWayfindingRequired
#BeYOUREpic
"Coach was high fiving me and they just said; "you know you've won a place to represent Victoria in the 24 hour championships" and I just remember, everybody was clapping and cheering and I just thought "Holy $&^@! I've got to do that all over again, twice as long? ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!"
That's professional speaker, author and Health & Lifestyle Educator Kim Morrison retelling her EPIC journey to becoming the youngest female to run 100 miles in less than 24 hours and setting a World Record in the process.
It's easy to perceive our sporting heroes as being almost more than human. Possessing the genetics, innate drive and dedication that you or I simply may not have been gifted with. The narrative is rarely focussed upon the times they quit or even the fact that perhaps, as was the case with Kim, they weren’t even particularly interested in their sport to begin with!
As it turns out Kim fell into Ultra Marathon. She was simply looking for the fastest way to accrue 200 hours of community service she needed in order to graduate from her Sports and Remedial Massage Diploma. So how did this reluctant runner switch grooves from a university student with a passion for Netball to becoming the best in the world at the cruel sport that is Ultra Marathon running and what ultimately made her hang up her running shoes at her peak?
Gain insight to the mindset of this passionate and empowering epic champion of The Art of Self Love in this episode of the Doing Epic Stuff podcast.
Show notes:
- Kim’s website: https://kimmorrison.com/
- A clip featuring Cliff Young; the Aussie potato farmer who came out of nowhere to win the 1983 Sydney to Melbourne Marathon and who coached / mentored Kim: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uGFA2N0oS1Q
DoingEpicStuff #LicenseToThrill #SwitchGrooves #LvlUp #SomeWayfindingRequired #BeYOUREpic #CreateYourBalance #DoingMakesMeFeelGood #podcast
"All the self-help books will tell you to be present. Be in the moment. But they won’t tell you how to do it.”- Dr Don Wood
Dr Don is the CEO at Inspired Performance Institute, based in Orlando, Florida.
A former elite level ice hockey player, Dr Don developed The Inspired Performance Program (TIPP); a neuroscience-based method which in essence provides the individual with the knowledge and tools to resolve or ‘clear’ their unresolved trauma and in doing so; empowers people to perform at their absolute peak.
Think being coached to set World Records or become a titan of industry.
Frustrated by modern medicine’s inability to provide respite to both his wife and daughter who were experiencing autoimmune disorders, Dr Don initially embarked on a quest to find a solution which modern medicine didn’t believe existed. The common element which both his wife and daughter shared being past emotional trauma; this became the focal point of his subsequent studies and practices, leading both his loved ones (effectively) being cured.
A simple method, that can be taught to just about anyone, and when learned can be self-applied to trauma of any nature in the future?
Woah.
The idea of being ‘present’ or ‘in flow’, explored throughout this episode, feels like the Venn Diagram intersect between what Dr Don’s method can provide and what people who are Doing Epic Stuff already seem to know (whether consciously or not): it’s only when we’re 100% in the moment that we have access to our full potential.
Perhaps Dr Don sums it up best: "You can't think and hit a baseball. It's impossible."
Show notes:
- Inspired Performance Institute (home of Dr Don’s program) https://www.inspiredperformanceinstitute.com/
- Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/40102.Blink
Yo.
If you enjoyed this episode of the DES podcast or are onboard with our mission of empowering more people to find and follow their extraordinary, more of the time, please consider subscribing to the fortnightly eNewsletter. It features some snackable epic content, the latest DES developments and a heads-up on upcoming episodes: mailchimp.doingepicstuff.com/subscribe
DoingEpicStuff
#LicenseToThrill
#SwitchGrooves
#LvlUp
#SomeWayfindingRequired
#BeYOUREpic
#CreateYourBalance
#DoingMakesMeFeelGood
#podcast
Welcome to the Doing Epic Stuff podcast with your host; Mike Drohan.
Together we’ll explore the stories and journeys of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
Can you remember the last time that, despite your best efforts, you TOTALLY LOST YOUR BANANA?!
Where you were SO MAD that it almost felt like you were being driven by some sort of dark force that refused to be sated until it had run its course?!
Well, it turns out you actually were, or more specifically; your brain was...
A Self-professed pracademic and founder of the Mind Body Brain Performance institute; Paul Taylor is on a mission to empower individuals and organisations to become a better version of themselves. One of the ways in which he does this is by explaining, in practical terms, what’s actually going on upstairs when we experience these heavyweight emotions that we all fall victim to at some time or another.
Fear. Stress. Anger. The overwhelming desire for comfy trackies and canned whipped cream at the end of a particularly stressful day.
Paul sets himself apart by being deeply committed to practicing that which he preaches.
- Hunting submarines in helicopters as a former British Royal Navy Aircrew Officer
- Boxing professionally
- Undergoing rigorous military combat survival and resistance-to-interrogation training
- Accruing multiple Masters Degrees in the pursuit of his total understanding of human behaviour and how to wield it for good.
- Succesfully rasing two kids (preach!)
We go deep into the process of setting goals you will actually keep, self-managing The Red Rage through simple techniques you can employ today and how I can avoid mentally scarring my niece’s U11 basketball team whom I’m coaching this season…
**All this and more on this episode of the Doing Epic Stuff Podcast.
Show notes**
- Mind Body Brain Performance Institute - Paul teaches his resilience training techniques to individuals and corporations: https://www.mindbodybrain.com.au/
- Self-determination theory: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Self-determination_theory
- S.M.A.R.T goals: https://www.mindtools.com/pages/article/smart-goals.htm
- Note: Paul prefers ‘S.M.A.R.T.E.R’ goals – the added steps of Evaluation (of your progress) and Reward (mmmm, cookie…)
DoingEpicStuff
#LicenseToThrill
#SwitchGrooves
#LvlUp
#SomeWayfindingRequired
#BeYOUREpic
#CreateYourBalance
#DoingMakesMeFeelGood
Welcome to the Doing Epic Stuff podcast with your host; Mike Drohan.
Together we’ll explore the stories and journeys of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
“No one is going to wear or throw a punch for you. No one does it in a boxing ring and no one does it in life.”
- Tiffanee Cook
To underestimate Tiff would be a mistake.
Under that ‘laid back Aussie’ demeanour and infectious giggle lies a weapon-of-a-human who has bested others in pursuit of ‘the sweet science’ otherwise known as boxing.
Once a self-professed introvert with a ‘I could take it or leave it’ attitude toward fitness and her corporate career – when Tiff made a spur-of-the-moment decision to join a 12-week boxing challenge that required participants to fight in an actual professional event upon completion, she effectively switched off cruise control.
Frenzied crowds. Bright Lights. Blood spilled. The whole 9 yards…
Having experienced the thrill of the fight, boxing quickly became everything to Tiff. With a massive commitment to the sport came massive positive change in her life:
- The courage to launch her own multifaceted business; Tiffanee and co. (yes; a tongue in cheek play on the American luxury jewellery retailer of the same name..)
- The confidence to produce and host her own highly successful podcast: Roll With The Punches
- An ambassadorship with Code 9 Foundation: who provide support for professional first responders and phone operators living with PTSD and other debilitating mental health conditions.
But not all change is considered ‘good’ in the world of boxing.
Toughness and grit are each seen as assets and showing weakness of any nature; a potential threat not just to your career but your safety in the ring. Boxing, seemingly, had bestowed upon Tiff the gift of courage. Courage to confront past childhood trauma long since repressed, but once that emotional pandoras box was opened would she ever be the same fighter in the ring?
Join Tiff and I as we explore active serendipity, the habits of an individual who is living her extraordinary and much more on this episode of the Doing Epic Stuff Podcast.
Show notes
- Tiff's website, home of Roll With The Punches Podcast: https://www.tiffaneeandco.com.au/
- Code 9 Foundation (Tiff is an ambassador): https://www.code9ptsd.org.au/news/187-new-code-9-ambassador-tiffanee-cook.html
- Craig Harper's 'The You Project Podcast' - Tiff aspired to be a guest 'when she was good enough' - a year later she was producing it! https://www.craigharper.net/podcast/
- Tiff's sketch of friends brother who passed away: https://www.instagram.com/p/CA9uKWbpmm-/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link
DoingEpicStuff
LicenseToThrill
SwitchGrooves
LvlUp
SomeWayfindingRequired
BeYOUREpic
CreateYourBalance
Welcome to the Doing Epic Stuff podcast with your host; Mike Drohan.
Together we’ll explore the stories and journeys of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
“We connected realising that maybe we were both people who would try and fight to live the lives we want to live.”
Woah.
Occasionally there’s a moment during a Doing Epic Stuff discussion that makes the hairs stand up on the back of my neck and this was certainly one of them. A truth bomb delivered by hyper-avid mountain biker, multipotentialite and recovered Fibromyalgia sufferer; Anna Glowinski when recalling the meeting of her soulmate (now husband) whilst out shredding the Spanish mountain bike trails. Little did she know at the time he was in fact an illegal immigrant and realising a future together was going to test her resolve to an extent she never could have imagined.
Anna’s story is ultimately one of resilience and self-awareness. The awesome potential resilience has to help us navigate extremely challenging personal and professional scenarios but also its double-edged nature. ..
In 2017, unexpectedly overcome with intense muscular pain, Anna was bedridden and eventually given the bleak diagnoses of chronic Fibromyalgia. Oh and, by the way, there was no cure for the constant pain, exhaustion and other all-round bad feels that came with it.
Faced with a future of daily anaesthetics and no bikes (ever again) the outlook was bleak for our action loving/living protagonist until a legend of the dirt shredding fraternity reached out via Instagram, helping Anna to embark upon an unexpected journey of self-realisation which literally, after the best part of a year bed ridden, had her surfing again within the span of two weeks.
Double Woah.
How did Anna make this miraculous physical recovery, unassisted by traditional western medicine?
Just how great is the role of our minds in the recovery of our bodies and how could this effect how you or I approach our wellbeing now and in the future?
Join Anna and I as we explore the critical role of context in safely pushing our limits, the power of the mind and how to tune-in to the language of our bodies and much more on this episode of the Doing Epic Stuff Podcast.
Show notes
- Anna is proudly supported by Shimano and Filthy Rides
- Anna’s clothing brand ‘Anna’s Leg’s’: https://www.instagram.com/annas_legs_cycling/?hl=en
- Anna’s IG: https://www.instagram.com/anna_glowinski/?hl=en
- Anna’s YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d3fRhbBsTIg&t=36s
Fibromyalgia
- Gill Gough Therapy is the specialist who worked with Anna to assist in her remarkable Fibromyalgia recovery: http://www.gillgoughtherapy.co.uk/
Mountain Biking Awesomeness.
- Joey Gogh (Former World BMX Champ who put Anna in touch with her mother; Gill Gough RE Fibromyalgia treatment) https://www.pinkbike.com/news/getting-to-know-joey-gough-2017.html
- ‘Becoming Ruby’ film by Patagonia Films – featured in the Winter Watch Party which Anna hosted: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=adLkZNd-EOg
- ‘Mont Thabor’ film – featured in WWP: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UhIeOwqZwak
DoingEpicStuff
LvlUp
SomeWayfindingRequired
BeYourEpic
LicenseToThrill
CreateYourBal
Welcome to the Doing Epic Stuff podcast with your host; Mike Drohan.
Together we’ll explore the stories and journeys of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
Seeking soul nourishment outside of her primary vocation as a gun Strategy and Operations exec, in 2019 Kerry Boys made the radical decision to #SwitchGrooves. Successfully applying for a government assisted program to assist Not-For-Profit leadership teams in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, she packed her bags and boarded a flight into the unknown...
#SomeWayfindingRequired #DoingMakesMeFeelGood
A year later, her Cambodia Quest unexpectedly scuttled by a pandemic, Kerry found herself back in Sydney, Australia. Armed with a re-affirmed fervour for being the change she wanted to see in the world and the knowledge that such great positive impact was possible with extremely limited resources - from this spark burst a flame… #BeYourEpic
Kerry (with biz partner; Phil Cross) is Co-Founder of Leaders For Good; a business (and podcast) which, in essence, exists to unlock the TREMENDOUS POWER of organisations as forces for good in the world, not just their own financial profit. A mission which, as we learn from Kerry, doesn’t just make sense from a social responsibility viewpoint but can ALSO make sense for their bottom line...
A proven system to turn these big business dogs into good business dogs? #LicenseToThrill
Join Kerry and I as we explore the keys to starting and continuing organisational change, the pivot that led to Leaders For Good finding its feet, and much more on this episode of the Doing Epic Stuff Podcast.
Show notes
- The Leaders For Good website/podcast: https://leadersforgood.org/podcast/
- Australian Volunteers (the service Kerry worked with to get posted to Cambodia): https://www.australianvolunteers.com/
- The Japanese process of ‘Ikigai’ (note: A Western interpretation of the meaning): https://savvytokyo.com/ikigai-japanese-concept-finding-purpose-life
- ‘Alchemy One’: the media agency Kerry mentions who promote collective responsibility values: https://www.alchemyone.co/about-us/
DoingEpicStuff
LvlUp
Startup
Podcast
LeadersForGood
Welcome to the Doing Epic Stuff podcast with your host; Mike Drohan
Together we’ll explore the stories and journeys of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
My next guest has needed to be somewhat of a cultural chameleon in order to survive and thrive away from her native homeland of Versailles, France.
Upon finishing her High School studies, at a crossroads of realising a childhood passion for produce or pursuing a profit-led pathway; Isabelle chose the latter. Business studies with a one-year overseas visa baked in. Travel, adventure and the unknown her only guarantee – a big call for a young French native for whom family and culture were everything...
#SomeWayfindingRequiredFast forward to the current and we are speaking with the leadership level Digital Marketing Executive, wife and mother of two (based in Sydney Australia) who has recently launch PreppedFRESH: a start-up which, in-effect, champions the very French traditions of delicious healthy food, prepared at home with the family.
So where did Isabelle get the confidence and know-how to sever the imaginary umbilical cord between comfortable career and calling? Was this seemingly full-circle relationship with food and tradition a conscious path followed or a compelling case for serendipity?
Join Isabelle and I as we explore decision making, building and maintaining momentum for following your passions, Australian insensitivities, overworking and much more on this episode of the Doing Epic Stuff Podcast.
Show notes:
Books Isabelle recommends:
- https://www.amazon.com.au/Becoming-Supernatural-Common-People-Uncommon-ebook/dp/B0746RN3G7
- https://www.kikki-k.com/au/shop-by/your-dream-life-starts-here-by-kristina-karlsson-11144001.html
PreppedFRESH
Check out the PreppedFRESH website , sign up to their newsletter for updates on their upcoming launch, and keep in touch on Instagram @preppedfresh_au and LinkedIn @preppedfresh
Footage of Fete de la musique celebrations, mentioned by Isabelle during the podcast
- Video 1 (Paris) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UpWKBc8eCdg
- Video 2 (Paris) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iMDPYelPQVA
- Video 3 (Versailles – Isabelle’s home town!) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DtHjMrg4kqw
DoingEpicStuff
LvlUp
SwitchGrooves
BeYourEpic
Startup
Podcast
PreppedFresh
Welcome to the Doing Epic Stuff podcast with your host; Mike Drohan.
Together we’ll explore the stories and journeys of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
Perspective.Some days it’s hard enough to get into first gear, let alone take conscious strides towards achieving big picture aims and goals.
Sometimes it can all just seem too hard...
Even with the best of intentions, we’re continually being given compelling reasons NOT to pursue our passions: work deadline, hangover, that complete series of Fargo on NetFlix to name but a few…
My next guest really puts the word ‘excuse’ into perspective.
With a growing résumé of successful music and sporting events to his name, Jamie Santilli developed a reputation as a self-made booking agent and events manager who delivered on his word and cared about his act’s wellbeing, first – rare qualities in a game often plagued by shady operators and slippery talent managers.
A routine health check-up in 2014, just a week out from a 6 week trip to the USA with his fiancé, changed Jamie’s entire world.
Join Jamie and I as we discuss the mental game to rehabilitation, overzealous Dads at freestyle scooter events, getting hustled by talent managers and more on this episode of The Doing Epic Stuff Podcast.
Show notes:
Jamie’s Mountain 1000 initiative: https://mountainthousand.com.au/
**#DoingEpicStuff
LvlUp
SomeWayfindingRequired
SwitchGrooves
BeYourEpic
CoWorking
Startup
Bootstrap
Podcast
HodgkinsLymphoma**
“The future is bright and we can shape it – let’s try our best!”
– CoWork Surf co-founder, Pier Stein
Welcome to the Doing Epic Stuff podcast with your host; Mike Drohan.
Together we’ll explore the stories and journeys of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
Pier Stein is living his free life.
Currently based in Bali, Indonesia, Pier is part of a growing movement toward long-term remote work; people choosing to play, stay and work from paradise.
#BeYourEpic
Earning Dollars and spending Rupiah.
Surfing during the day and working late into the night with a tribe of likeminded Digital Nomads - as Pier himself puts it: “Is not just a fun move, it’s a smart move.”
But it hasn’t all been fun in the sun...
Pier is effectively the last man standing from the original trio of founders behind the bootstrapped start-up; CoWork Surf - think a kind of fusion between aggregated Surf Hostel / Co-working spaces or a kind of AirBNB for digital-surf-nomads, if you will.
Join me as we delve into the story of this University Grad-come-Co-founder, with salt in his veins, chasing his epic in The Land of The Gods & heavy wave breaks.
Tasty topics include:
- The value in defining and knowing your audience niche when launching a start-up
- The most important ingredients needed to create great co-founder chemistry
- What it’s like to live and work in paradise and how Pier makes it financially viable
Show notes:
- CoWork Surf homepage: https://www.coworksurf.com/
- Bingin Beach, Indonesia on a 'good' day... (note this is where I personally scared the hell out of myself by paddling too deep into the break, because I was wave hungry, then getting caught on the inside by a set of rogue waves, with nowhere to run...) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tAaiK5MeuQc
- The Uluwatu cave paddle out is not for the faint hearted... https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q9lYpxm4L64&t=11s
DoingEpicStuff
LvlUp
SomeWayfindingRequired
SwitchGrooves
BeYourEpic
CoWorking
RemoteWork
Startup
Bootstrap
Bali
Indonesia
DigitalNomad
Podcast
Welcome to the Doing Epic Stuff podcast with your host; Mike Drohan
Together we’ll explore the stories and journeys of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
Life.
One day you’re making the OK bucks in the advertising agency grind, the next you’re shovelling chicken sh*t. 🐔🐔
This isn’t some sort of witticism but LITERALLY the path my next guest followed in order to realise HIS passion for helping those who help others, and ultimately; realising a vision of revolutionising the volunteering industry,
#LicenseToThrill
Matthew Boyd is the founder and CEO of Vollie; an online marketplace which connects the needs of non-profit organizations with the wants of the altruistic modern-day professional, potentially solving the advertiser’s paradox in the process: ‘Infinite potential awareness. Zero awareness’.
Join me as I delve into the psyche of this self-made Software-as-a-service-soothsayer (try saying that ten times) who revolutionised the skilled giving game.
Tasty topics include:
- Finding the resilience to keep moving forward when nobody believes in your idea
- The next best step you can take when you realise your career is killing you
- The one thing any and EVERY successful start-up begins with.
Without further ado, this is the Doing Epic Stuff podcast featuring Matthew Boyd, founder and CEO of Vollie; the Skilled Online Volunteering platform.
You can check out Vollie here: https://www.vollie.com.au/
DoingEpicStuff
LvlUp
SomeWayfindingRequired
SwitchGrooves
BeYourEpic
Welcome to the Doing Epic Stuff podcast with your host; Mike Drohan
Together we’ll explore the stories and journeys of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
“When people talk about fight or flight I’m definitely in the latter category. I don’t even like verbal confrontations.”
Insert record screeching sound
Wait, what?!
THAT wasn’t the narrative I expected from the sort of person who quit their day job to travel half-way across the world in order to engage in one of THE most brutal and dangerous combat sports in the world!
What could POSSIBLY make this seemingly mild mannered, intelligent and articulate design professional #SwitchGrooves, quit his job, fly to Thailand and step onto the hallowed canvas at Chiang Mai Boxing Stadium?
A stoppage in the third round, 13 stiches to his face later and Martin was ready to give me HIS account of this crazy, barn-burner of a fight with an opponent who appeared dead-set on giving him a lobotomy with slicing elbows and lightning fast head kicks…
Watch the full fight here!
Did I mention it was Martin's first ever full Muay Thai rules fight and he took it on 2 WEEKS NOTICE?!!!
**#LicenseToThrill
BeYourEpic**I first met Martin Bort whilst training at the Hong Thong Muay Thai gym in Chiang Mai, Thailand, during a 13-month international Digital Nomad Journey/Spirit Quest I was on at the time... During my time in Chiang Mai, it was my privilege to train, befriend and share firsthand the stunning victories and crushing defeats of the Hong Thong gym inhabitants. Men and women regularly stepping over the ropes and into the unknown for the epic of it.
DoingEpicStuff
LvlUp
SomeWayfindingRequired
BeYourEpic
A long-term, regular practitioner of Judo and Brazilian Ju-jitsu (BJJ), Jason has extensive regarding the personal development pressure cooker that are combat sports. Insight only gleaned through hard work.
Hour upon hour on the mat, pushing your limits against your peers.
Jason launched the Inner Demons initiative during the COVID pandemic as a vehicle to highlight the link between BJJ and positive mental and physical health. A link which, when disrupted (as has been the case for many of us due to lockdowns) has the potential to open the door for our inner demons to escape. For some of us those little buggers are particularly eager to get out and particularly nasty when they do...
When I first noticed the concept being promoted on LinkedIn I was of two minds:
- I loved the concept. In a lot of ways, it is a manifestation of my personal beliefs and experiences having lived, loved and hurt myself pursuing innumerable physical adventure quests throughout my life.
- I was admittedly a little bit envious. Jason is a full-time finance executive who has managed to launch a start-up concept which aligns with my conscious capitalism aspirations, is beautiful in its simplicity AND he has three teenagers to keep him busy!?
So, what’s his secret sauce and just as importantly; how can I get onboard with such a kick-a** initiative?!
Show notes:https://inner-demons.com/
**#DoingEpicStuff
LvlUp
SomeWayfindingRequired
LicenseToThrill
SwitchGrooves
BeYourEpic**
Maureen is The Pound for Pound Peoples Champion of doing things smarter, not harder.A master of finding ways for herself and others to spend more time on doing the things they do best or want to do more of; she’s a little bit of an ‘Original Gangstar Lifehacker’; able to perceive and leverage opportunities to increase productivity in all walks of life, even cleaning the house!
From finding the balance between raising two children (as a single parent!) and being a successful entrepreneur coach, to launching a global Virtual Assistant agency with her business partner Carmen Williams (which has grown to a team of over 50 virtual staff) - Maureen's life is a testament to the power of thinking smarter, not harder.
Aside from all the epic stuff she's up to, it's Maureen’s positive outlook and ‘jump first’ approach to life that I've always been most impressed by - you've got to respect anyone who, when asked the question: "what would you have done differently?"
responds with “Taken even more risks.”
#LicenseToThrill
Show notes:https://businessblueprint.com.au/
https://globalteams.com.au/
https://asrc.org.au/
https://www.facebook.com/maureenpoundbusinesscoach/
DoingEpicStuff
BeYourEpic
LvlUp
SomeWayfindingRequired
LicenseToThrill
SwitchGrooves
Welcome to the Doing Epic Stuff podcast with your host Mike Drohan.
Together we’ll explore the stories and journeys of ordinary people doing extraordinary things.
Jake Waters and Ebony Campese are your typical modern day teenagers albeit with one significant difference; they both train in the ancient art of 8 limbs or 'Muay Thai' - a full-contact martial art born on the battlefields of South East Asia.
Muay Thai is as well known for its beautiful pre-fight warm up routines or ‘Wai Kru’, as its strange and exotic soundtrack of traditional horn music, which builds and slows in concert with the action in the ring.
Wicked spinning elbows, spear knees and savage clinch techniques are the order of the day which, more often than not, can result in loss of consciousness to the losing combatant or ‘Nak Muay’.
In an era where direct human interaction is in decline, and the value of traditional educational institutions under question, the practice of an ancient martial art is providing the answers for these two young guns, actively pursuing their EPIC journeys in the brave new world.
I'm fascinated by both Eb and Jake’s poise under scary conditions. Having only discovered Muay Thai later in life (myself) and subsequently; the roller coaster of fear, elation and injuries that its pursuit demands, I had to find out what went on in their minds when they donned the Thai leather, bit down on their mouth pieces and (effectively) prepared themselves to go to war each day after school.
Disclaimer: there’s mention of being ‘kicked in the head’ during this podcast which sounds (and is) disturbing but please note: that this sport is practiced under in a tightly controlled and regulated environment at Dominance MMA, Melbourne. Practitioners wear pads and are specifically trained to prevent serious injuries to each other.
In the ring? Well, that’s a whole other story…
Show Notes:
Watch The Emperor in action
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We’ve all heard that age old adage ‘never mix business with pleasure’ – my next guest found out the hard way what can happen when business partnerships go sour in South East Asia…
Riding high with a number of successful hospitality start-ups in Vietnam to his name, Western Australian ex-pat; Andrew Lambie, found his burgeoning empire scuttled over night when a business agreement was dishonoured by a trusted frenemy.
Ironically; it’s ultimately Andrew’s faith in humanity and altruistic nature which helps to re-rail his business prospects.
I bumped into Andrew one sunny morning in Hoi An whilst admiring his bright orange vintage Vespa out the front of 9 Grains Bakery which, as it turned out, was part of the Streets International initiative; a comprehensive and fully-supported 15-month culinary and hospitality training program for disadvantaged and vulnerable youth living in poverty.
Oh, and Andrew also owned the bakery...
Aside from sharing a love of all things two-wheeled and petrol powered, Andrews passion for developing business concepts that embrace social enterprise values; maximising positive social impact alongside profits for the owner, was an epic reason for us to catch up on a rainy, sweaty afternoon in Hoi An - my last day in this stunning, mysterious city before I headed South to The Delta...
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Riding mountain bikes is fun.
Riding mountain bikes for 24 hours in a competitive environment is straight up masochistic!
How did Peter Arch; a young, enthusiastic bike mechanic from Torquay, Australia, take his passion for riding bikes with mates to the point of becoming the World Solo 24 hour MTB Champion in under 18 months?!
Do you even ride, bro?!
Join Pete and I as we discuss:
- How riding that long can create delusions of paparazzi hiding in bushes
- Nutrition planning for 24 hours of pedaling (mmm; liquid cake!)
- Self-sabotage / winning the mind game that is this sport
- The tribe aspect to solo 24 hour MTB racing
- The power of hugs (when your 14 hours in to a 24 hour MTB race) and you just... need... one...
Come get it.
Show notes:
https://www.instagram.com/peterarch_/#DoingEpicStuff
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Being a full-time surfboard shaper feels like one of those mythical careers reserved for the 1% of the 5% who live next to a wicked surf break and don’t have to worry about money.
Like most things in life it turns out that life is stranger than misconception.
José Raimundo walks.
Born and raised on the pristine Algarve (Southern Portuguese coastline), José decided that, rather than following his head (legs?) toward a potentially lucrative professional career in Football (the round ball kind), that surfing, more precisely; surfboard craftsmanship, was his calling.
Join me as I catch-up with José in an AirBNB in Bali, Indonesia, shortly after we'd chartered a boat together to go and surf a remote reef break called 'Airports'... Epic.
Tings:
- What's the difference between a surfboard shaper and a surfboard craftsmen?!
- How José bootstrapped a surfboard company with nothing but a wood plane and a copy of John Carper’s ‘Shaping 101'.
- The one thing a surfboard craftsman does every day to ensure he continues to evolve (you can probably guess)...
https://www.instagram.com/nothing_surfcrafts/
Stay in touch with the latest DES happenings:facebook.com/doingepicstuff.com
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What would you spend an inheritance on?
- Paying off a home loan?
- School fees?
- Tax debt?
Chances are it isn't a SCHOONER QUEST!Well, more fool you (and me)!
With husband and 4 year old daughter firmly in tow (nautical terminology), Zoe and fam embarked upon a 10 month, 4.5K nautical mile (or 8334 km) adventure up the East Coast of Australia; swilling coconuts, dodging semi-submerged shipping containers (a la Robert Redford in ‘All Is Lost’), trying to stay Zen during 36 hour stints of constant heavy motion across Bass Straight – where do I sign up?!
Zoe made the kick-ass decision to invest in an adventure that, as we find out, ends up being an unexpected catalyst through which she discovers an inner strength in adversity which has continued to resonate throughout her life, long after the boat (edit; schooner) is put back on the market.
"Maybe I’ll buy a boat.
Schooner or later…"
>_<!
Stay in touch with the latest DES happenings:
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Skydivers: Baggy-fluorescent-parachute-material-pant-wearing-dare-devil-death-wish-stoner-wasters, right?
Wrong.Ossie Kahn has made a career out of his passion for cloud walking, developing commercially-viable models such as:
- Australian skydiving centres that were acquired by an ASX listed company!
- Innovative marketing activations for a number of corporate entities includes National Australia Bank, Ford Australia, Carlton United Breweries and others!
- A risk mitigation methodology that has translated to the corporate world
- Aero Sports Tourism across South East Asia
Aaand the dude is 50 years old and can do muscle ups on Olympic rings.
sighJoin Ossie and I as we discuss overcoming fear, how to know when to pivot your career path, aircarft engine malfunctions and opportunity triage with a legit, serial aero sports entrepreneur that has his head firmly in the clouds…
Show notes:
Find out more about what Ossie has been up to:
https://www.instagram.com/ossiekhan/?hl=en
Stay in touch with the latest DES happenings:
facebook.com/doingepicstuff.com
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The largest rogue wave ever recorded was 84 feet high and struck Draupner oil platform in the North Sea in 1995.
One could argue that humankind is experiencing a kind of collective 'Rogue COVID Wave' at the moment - for many of us it feels like we’re stuck in a kind of stasis; unable to go forward or backward with our lives until the world rights itself again.
What if this is the new normal?
Would we find a way to move forward and thrive or would the realisation be crippling?
In this episode I talk with Tasmanian surfing pioneer / legend, accomplished documentary film maker, author and the subject of autobiographic feature length film; Rogue Waves: Mr Mick Lawrence - a man better equipped than most to provide guidance when an unusually large, unexpected and suddenly appearing wave threatens to destroy you.
No Bueno.
Learn the secret to thriving under adversity by the man who has spent a lifetime, as Mick so eloquently puts it “dancing with waves”…
You can find the Rogue Waves trailer and feature length film on Vimeo:
https://vimeo.com/358715442
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Ever wondered about the mindset of a professional fighter?
Surely you'd have to be nuts to get in that ring, risking life and limb, for questionable (at best) financial remuneration?
What does it take to do it 10 times?
How about 50?
- Sylvie von Duuglus-Ittu: "Hold my beer"...
SHE'S THE WESTERNER (dudes included) WITH THE GREATEST AMOUNT OF MUAY THAI FIGHTS, IN THAILAND, OF ALL TIME!!
Pause.
At the time of posting this podcast she's sitting at an incomprehensible 264 BOUTS! (with the scars to prove it)... It's not every day you get to meet a legitimate living legend, especially one who is still actively striving for their ultimate EPIC summit (with no signs of slowing down).
Join your host, Mike Drohan, as Sylvie (and her pet dog) and I get DEEP into the mindset of a legend whilst Sylvie is literally on the road to her next fight...
For anyone looking to get PEEE-UMPED about finding, starting (or re-starting) their own side-hustle, passion project, spirit quest, secret thrill or just needing a good old distraction from the doom-and-gloom of mass media (Can I Get a Hallelujah?!) - come get it.
Topics include:
- What sort of mental training does it take for a professional fighter to willingly enter a life or death situation over 264 times and counting?!
- How to sustain yourself financially when your passion pursuit doesn’t make enough money for you to pay the bills or even your post fight medical expenses..
- How to deal with a young Thai pad holder who has decided that YOU are going to be the butt of his joke, and he’s the only one laughing.
Delve deeper into Sylvie-world, here:https://8limbsus.com/
https://www.patreon.com/sylviemuay
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Juggling your passion or side-hustle with a paying gig is tricky for most of us - passion doesn't necessarily directly translate to paid - who knew?!
Aaron Static (aka Aaron Danks) is a self-professed homebody and unassuming kind of cat. He’s managed to be a long term active contributor to the electronic music scene; heading up music labels, continually releasing music and DJ’ing some of Australia’s best dance parties, all whilst being at the forefront of innovation in the mobile application development space, for over 15 years.
He works mostly at night, I might add (They Walk Among Us)…
Join your host, Mike Drohan, as we discuss Aaron’s formula for achieving the balance between pay and play, his latest musical release, how to get started on your own bedroom-beats quest AND his latest cross-over project titled ‘StreamBeans’ – a timely fusion of his love for live music events and application development that has recently received mass media interest.
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Show notes/links**
https://www.facebook.com/DoingEpicStuff/
https://www.facebook.com/aaronstatic/
https://streambeans.com.au/