You Couldn't Make It Up: Finding Stillness, Purpose and Peace

In this powerful face to face conversation, Pete Cohen welcomes Dr Ray Sylvester back into his home for a deeply reflective discussion about life, loss, purpose, health, faith, and the extraordinary events that have unfolded since their last podcast together. Recorded just weeks before the world premiere of Hannah's Story, this episode explores what happens when we stop trying to control life and begin to trust the unfolding of it. Together, Pete and Ray discuss the journey from busyness to presence, the difference between fitness and true wellbeing, and why so many people today are living overstimulated lives while becoming increasingly disconnected from themselves. The conversation also explores: • The power of discernment and learning to trust your inner knowing • Why modern life makes it difficult to hear your own voice • The importance of stillness, reflection and contemplation • The relationship between health, stress and the nervous system • How trauma, grief and adversity can become catalysts for growth • The connection between yesterday, today and tomorrow • Why contentment may be one of the most overlooked aspects of wellbeing • Pete's journey through grief following Hannah's passing • The upcoming world premiere of Hannah's Story • What it means to stop performing and start living authentically • The difference between being fit and being truly healthy • Why many of life's greatest opportunities arrive when we stop forcing outcomes • Family, faith, resilience and being present for what matters most Throughout the conversation, Ray shares insights from his work in leadership, coaching and human development, while Pete reflects on the profound changes he has experienced through nearly 300 days of daily self reflection and coaching himself. This episode is a reminder that life is not something to be rushed through. Sometimes the greatest breakthroughs come when we pause, breathe, and give ourselves permission to stop and think. Key Takeaway "We spend so much time carrying the noise of yesterday and worrying about tomorrow that we miss the only place life is actually happening — today." Connect Follow Pete Cohen for more conversations on intentional living, wellbeing and personal transformation. Follow Dr Ray Sylvester on LinkedIn and explore his acclaimed Talent Series newsletters, including the powerful questions: Who are you? Who do you serve? How do you serve them? Because sometimes, the most important thing we can do is simply stop and think. You can watch the podcast here https://teamhannah.com/

Episode theme: Shame, resilience, reinvention and learning to see yourself with fresh eyes. In this powerful conversation, Pete Cohen speaks with Andrea McLean about her new book and the deeply personal journey behind it. Andrea opens up about business failure, financial loss, illness, identity, shame, and the process of choosing to stop hiding. Andrea explains that shame often convinces us we are the problem, when in reality we may simply be carrying something that was never ours to hold. She explores the difference between guilt and shame, sharing the powerful distinction: Guilt says, "I have done a bad thing." Shame says, "I am a bad thing." The conversation moves through Andrea's decision to leave a successful television career, the collapse of her business, her near death experience with pneumonia, sepsis and kidney failure, and how writing the book helped her release shame she did not even realise she was carrying. A key part of the discussion is the idea that shame can keep us hiding from friends, opportunities, ourselves and the world. Andrea shares how shining a light on her story became both a personal healing process and a way to help others feel less alone. Key Themes Shame and hiding Andrea talks about the exhaustion of hiding from people because she did not want to explain what had happened in her life. Failure and identity The conversation explores what happens when status, money, career and identity fall away. The difference between guilt and shame One of the most important ideas in the episode is learning to separate what happened from who you are. Health, survival and perspective Andrea shares the frightening story of becoming seriously ill and being told afterwards that she was close to death. Reinvention and starting again After losing so much, Andrea and her family moved to Spain and began a new chapter. Raising your vibration through small steps Andrea shares how Pete's three nightly questions helped her during one of the hardest periods of her life: What am I proud of? What am I grateful for? What am I looking forward to tomorrow? Letting go of shame that was never yours Andrea reflects on how much shame can be passed to us by other people, especially when they are uncomfortable with who we are. Standout Moments Andrea saying she wrote the book because she was tired of hiding. Her description of shame as a hook that we hang evidence on over time. The moment she explains how low shame made her feel, like "a pulse that was barely beating." Her story of accidentally becoming a weather presenter and how all her previous skills prepared her for that opportunity. The insight that the person who starts writing a book is not always the same person who finishes it. Possible Episode Title Andrea McLean: Letting Go of Shame Alternative titles: The Shame We Carry Why Shame Is Not Who You Are Andrea McLean on Shame, Survival and Starting Again When Shame Stops Hiding The Book That Helped Andrea McLean Feel Lighter Short Episode Description In this deeply honest conversation, Pete Cohen speaks with Andrea McLean about shame, failure, illness, reinvention and the courage to stop hiding. Andrea shares the story behind her new book and explains why shame often tells us we are broken, when the truth is we may simply be carrying something that was never ours in the first place. You can purschase it here https://dk.com/products/9780241762813-shameless

Episode Overview In this deeply personal conversation, Pete Cohen and Dr Ray Sylvester reflect on the third anniversary of Hannah's passing, the making of the award winning documentary about her life, and the transformational journey that followed. Together, they explore grief, faith, friendship, purpose, slowing down, and how suffering can become a doorway into meaning, healing and service. Key Themes Hannah's Legacy Pete reflects on Hannah's life, her courage, her treatment journey, and the impact she continues to have through the film, Team Hannah and the people who loved her. Celebrating in Suffering Ray shares why he encouraged Pete to find a way to celebrate Hannah, even in the middle of grief, and how that became the starting point for the documentary. The Making of the Film Pete shares how the film began as a private keepsake, became a cathartic process, and has now won 11 film festival awards. STOP 2 THINK The conversation explores how Pete's life has shifted from being constantly busy to learning the power of pausing, reflecting and responding with intention. Friendship and Alignment Pete and Ray talk honestly about their relationship, built not on transaction, but trust, truth and authentic support. Wellbeing and Slowing Down They discuss stress, the nervous system, HRV, the importance of rest and digest, and why stopping to think is essential for health and transformation. Memorable Ideas "Where you are is not who you are." "You can stop intentionally, or life can force you to stop." "Thinking is the foundation of transformation." "Grief comes in waves, but meaning can grow through the waves." "STOP 2 THINK is not about doing less. It is about living with more intention." Listeners Will Take Away A deeper understanding of grief as a journey, not a straight line. How celebration and suffering can coexist. Why slowing down can be one of the most powerful actions we take. How authentic friendship can help us face what we might otherwise avoid. Why Pete now sees STOP 2 THINK as his life's work. Closing Reflection This episode is both a tribute to Hannah and a powerful invitation to pause, reflect and ask: What might life reveal if we stopped long enough to truly listen? You can purchase tickets from here for the premier of Hannah's Story https://raindance.eventive.org/schedule/hannah-s-story-6a01e6717a4090b8763e2c5c

Today's episode is something deeply personal. I'm sharing a piece of music that was originally created in the early 2000s — part of a body of work that has evolved over the last 30 years. Throughout that time, I've had the privilege of collaborating with a number of incredible musicians to create soundscapes used in meditations and affirmations, designed to help people pause, breathe, and reconnect. This particular piece is very close to my heart. For a few moments within the music, you'll hear the voice of my coach — someone I worked with for 16 years, who had a profound impact on my life and the way I think. To have his voice woven into this piece makes it more than just music… it's a moment of reflection, memory, and meaning. I'm truly delighted to share this with you. And if it resonates — if it gives you even a few moments to stop and think — please pass it on to someone else who might need that same space today.

Walking Meditation in Vienna A Journey of Breath and Presence Today I want to invite you to walk with me. Not just metaphorically, but quite literally. Recently I found myself walking through the beautiful streets of Vienna, Austria. A city rich with history, music, architecture and quiet moments of life unfolding all around you. But what struck me most was something much simpler than the buildings or the culture. It was the opportunity to stop… and breathe. So wherever you are right now, if it's possible, I'd love you to join me on a walk. You might be outside. You might be in a park. You might even be walking through your own neighbourhood. And if you're not walking, that's okay too. You can simply sit and listen. For the next 40 minutes, we are going to do something incredibly simple. We are going to walk… and breathe. 

In this heartfelt episode of the mi365 Podcast, Pete Cohen brings together a circle of lifelong friends — Billy Schwer, Andy Selling, and Michelle Humphrey — for an open and deeply human conversation about friendship, connection, and the importance of being in each other's corner. Alongside them is Toby, Michelle's 18-year-old son, standing at the beginning of his adult journey, surrounded by people who genuinely want to see him thrive. Together, they explore how friendships evolve over time, the balance between independence and connection, and the healing power of truly being seen, heard, and supported. In This Episode 💬 The Real Meaning of Friendship: Why true friends don't just celebrate you — they call you out, lift you up, and stand beside you through it all. 🧠 The Relationship With Yourself: What it means to be your own best friend, and how self-acceptance and forgiveness shape every other relationship. 🥊 Resilience and Reinvention: Former World Champion Billy Schwer shares his journey of failure, faith, and finding purpose beyond boxing. 💚 Listening Without Fixing: From Billy's work with The Samaritans to Michelle's art therapy practice, the group unpacks the art of listening and holding space. 🪞 Honest Reflection: Pete opens up about his past — learning to show up more for the people who matter, including himself. 🧩 Generations in Conversation: Toby shares his perspective as a young adult navigating uncertainty, purpose, and belonging in the digital age. 💡 Technology and Connection: A real debate about whether phones are pulling us apart — or keeping us connected in new ways. 🕊️ The Power of Presence: From family care to lifelong bonds, the episode reminds us that sometimes friendship is simply being there. Key Quotes "The best things in life are free — and friendship is one of them." — Billy Schwer "You can't have a deep friendship without vulnerability." — Michelle Humphrey "Maybe the most important relationship you'll ever have is the one with yourself." — Pete Cohen "Companionship is underrated — just being with someone, comfortably, in silence." — Andy Selling Guests Billy Schwer – Former World Champion Boxer, Mindset Coach, and Samaritan volunteer. https://billyschwer.com/ Andy Sellins – Educator, sportsman, and lifelong friend. Michelle Humphrey – Art Psychotherapist working in the NHS and private practice. Toby – 18-year-old apprentice and aspiring MMA fighter, exploring purpose and identity. Rupert – Longtime friend and deep thinker, bringing insight from Jungian psychology. Themes We Explore Friendship and authenticity Mental health and emotional awareness Vulnerability and connection Generational wisdom Grief, growth, and transformation The art of listening The courage to show up for others Takeaway Message Friendship is life's heartbeat. It's not about how often you talk — it's about knowing someone's in your corner when it really matters. This episode is a reminder to pause, reach out, and tell the people you love that you appreciate them.

Episode Overview In this deeply personal and soul-stirring conversation, Pete Cohen sits down with Paul for a reflective exploration of The Hero's Journey — not as a myth, but as a lived experience. Together, they peel back the layers of masculinity, stillness, loss, and inner transformation. From Joseph Campbell's timeless teachings to modern myths like The Matrix, Gladiator, and Lord of the Rings, Pete and Paul uncover what it really means to answer "the call to adventure" in our own lives — the call to wake up, let go, and come home to who we truly are. They talk about men's circles, spiritual awakening, grief, and the courage to face one's truth without distraction. What emerges is a rare and honest conversation about resting in being rather than doing, about presence over performance, and about why our deepest healing often begins when we finally stop running. Key Themes The Hero's Journey and the path of inner transformation The courage to rest, pause, and simply "be" The masks men wear and why vulnerability is sacred Joseph Campbell, myth, and meaning in modern life Letting go of the "destination mentality" Grief as a doorway to awakening Relationships as mirrors for our healing Finding strength through men's circles and authentic connection Memorable Quotes "I'm just resting in being — and that's rare in this world." "The hero's journey isn't out there. It's the one within." "Stopping isn't dangerous — it's where the magic begins." "Healing isn't a quick fix. It's a deep calling to become more real." "It's not about what I do for the world. It's about what I do for myself — and the impact that has on the world." Guest Paul is a mentor, spiritual guide, and member of A Band of Brothers — a men's circle dedicated to helping men and young people face their truth, heal ancestral wounds, and live with authenticity. Contact Paul here; www.meetingsinstillness.com www.Paulhurcomb.Org About the Host Pete Cohen, known as Mr. Intention, is a mindset and performance coach, author, and global keynote speaker who helps people live intentionally and thrive beyond survival.  DM Pete with your reflections or stories  @PeteCohen_ Listen If You're Exploring: How to live with more intention and self-awareness What it means to heal from grief and loss The role of men's groups and vulnerability in transformation How myth and story mirror our own inner evolution Why slowing down might be the most radical act of all

Guest: Liz Baron Cohen — acupuncturist, psychotherapist (transpersonal), Five Rhythms teacher, author, plant-medicine facilitator, trauma-informed therapist… and one of the kindest humans I know. Episode theme: How Liz is meeting a stage 4 ovarian cancer diagnosis with courage, curiosity, and a mission: to build a bridge between Western oncology and complementary care—and to reclaim joy along the way. Donate here: GoFundMe — Aliza's Healing Journey Quick Take Liz spent her first year post-diagnosis pursuing non-medical routes; the tumours grew (didn't spread). She then started chemotherapy—and feels stronger on it than expected. She's fundraising to rent a home hyperbaric oxygen chamber (£1,300–£1,500/month; purchase can be £48k–£100k). Having it at home means daily use for Liz and opening her doors so local cancer patients who can't afford clinic sessions (£150 each, ~3x/week) can benefit too. Core insight: it's not "alternative versus" Western—it's both/and. Let's get the two worlds holding hands for patients. Deep work: reclaiming her name ("Elisa" = joy), learning to let love in, setting boundaries for empathy, and living for herself—beyond titles and roles. Listen Highlights (Chapters) 00:00 – Why this conversation matters; introducing Liz. 01:09 – Diagnosis (June; ~14 months in). What she tried first, and why. 03:14 – Starting chemo—and the surprise: "I actually feel really good on it." 03:45 – Why hyperbaric oxygen? Costs of clinics vs. home rental; sharing access. 05:20 – Work on pause, reality of bills, and pouring inheritance into healing. 06:26 – Liz's mum, a pioneer (70s aerobics, early whole-foods); family history. 07:27 – Chemo fears, misinformation, and nuance beyond Instagram hot takes. 08:31 – The dream: integrating complementary & Western medicine. 10:15 – BLISS in Notting Hill: a creative health centre (healing meets culture). 12:21 – Pete's story about Hannah: "Draw Your Future" & envisioning outcomes. 13:30 – Liz's north star: reclaiming joy (and what joy really is). 16:45 – Alignment: the projected self vs. the inner world. 17:52 – Radical generosity & being part of each other's stories. 20:39 – "Alternative" vs. "complementary" and why labels get in the way. 21:43 – Hitting emotional bottom; grief, daily tears, and what moved through. 23:17 – The warrior in her; Jewish ancestry and survival threads. 24:22 – From fighting to surrendering; allowing support. 24:52 – The true cost: £150k+ spent; redefining luxury (to sit, walk, eat). 27:59 – Family constellations: restoring the flow of love in systems. 29:05 – Who am I without titles? Identity after stopping work. 33:14 – "When you're ill you have one problem." Perspective reset. 34:18 – "I can see the spirit in your eyes." What that means to Liz. 35:20 – Spirit having a human experience? Indigenous circles & being heard. 38:00 – Realising spirit is there to help her, too. 39:07 – Why telling our stories matters (and stops sleepwalking). 40:12 – Sitting with the underdog; human connection as medicine. 41:49 – Trust issues, patriarchy, Western medicine—and choosing chemo. 43:26 – Chemo-sensitivity testing (~£5,000) and personalising treatment. 49:20 – "Empathy without boundaries is self-harm." 51:08 – What the cancer taught her: joy, trust, letting love in. 52:13 – How to reach Liz & how we can help (together). 📝 Note: Timestamps are approximate to guide your skim & re-listens. Key Ideas & Quotes Both/And Healing: "The only people who suffer when the two worlds split are the patients. My dream is to get them holding hands." Joy as a Practice: "My name, Elisa, means joy. I'm reclaiming my name." Receiving Love: "I knew spirit existed to help others through me. I didn't realise spirit existed to help me, too." Boundaried Empathy: "Empathy without boundaries is self-harm." Perspective: "When you're well, you've a thousand problems; when you're ill, you've one." How You Can Help Liz (and Others) Donate to the Hyperbaric Fund: Help rent a home chamber so Liz can use it daily and offer sessions to local cancer patients who can't afford clinic prices. Goal: cover a 6-month minimum rental (est. £1,300–£1,500/month). Donate here: GoFundMe — Aliza's Healing Journey Bridge-Builders Wanted: If you're an oncologist, nurse, researcher, integrative clinician, or complementary practitioner, reach out to help convene a joint event/working group for practical collaboration. Resources & Contacts Email: [email protected] Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aliza_bc/ GoFundMe: Aliza's Healing Journey Mentioned in the Conversation Family Constellations  Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy  Infrared Sauna, Vitamin C IVs, Diet & Supplements  Chemo-sensitivity/biomarker testing (~£5,000) to personalise treatment "Draw Your Future" (Patti Dobrowolski TED talk) Ideas from Louise Hay, Caroline Myss, Candace Pert; Five Rhythms; indigenous circle practices Medical disclaimer: This episode shares personal experiences and perspectives. It is not medical advice. Always consult qualified professionals for diagnosis and treatment. About Liz Baron Cohen Clinician, movement teacher, facilitator, space-maker. Liz has spent decades helping others heal. Now she's inviting healing to help her—and using her journey to model integrated care, community support, and a return to joy.

Future Self is the person who you will be years from now. It is the person you intend to be. Do you know who your future self is, or better yet, have you decided who you are going to be in the future without thinking of any limitations? Is he or she a healthier, wealthier, happier, better person than you are today, or would he be the same as the person you are today, only physically older? Why is it important to know the person you are becoming and, more significantly, is it possible for you to have a relationship with your future self? If so, what good would it do? Tune in and let me inspire and show you how to be the person you have been eyeing to be, and realize the endless possibilities that you can have for yourself. Have a relationship with your future self and be the best person you can be, be the change the world wants you to be. Highlights: ⚡️ We are driven by pain and our view of the future and what we do today impacts tomorrow. ⚡️ When people identify with the person they want to become, they become that person. ⚡️ We must believe that our future self already exists and have a relationship with him and be guided by him. ⚡️ Failing to be the person you want to be results in depression, anxiety, and frustration. ⚡️ Reasons why most people are living a future they do not want: pursuing the ideals of somebody else and not who they want to become choosing exactly who they are today because that is who they think they are failing to prospect, losing the ability to be a free thinker, and not realizing the choices they have do not have a relationship with and empathy for their future self not getting in the game they do not see the benefit of doing something despite the challenges Important stories: 🎯 6:40. Meg Jay talks about the empathy gap 🎯 9:01 Hal Hershfield on future self as another person 🎯 10:47. Dr. Benjamin Hardy explains prospection 🎯 11:58 A conversation with my future self 🎯 15:22 Matthew McConaughey on who is my hero, chasing my hero (2013) 🎯 18:00 Daniel Goldstein discusses resisting temptation 🎯 22:20 Daniel Gilbert the ease of remembering vs difficulty of imagining 🎯 30:40 Jimmy Donaldson aka Mr. Beast as another example of someone who has a connection with his future self    

Episode Summary In this deeply reflective episode of the Hero Podcast, Pete Cohen is joined by longtime friend Paul for an open, heartfelt conversation about what it means to be guided—and to guide others. Together they explore the essential role of mentors, the power of presence, and how authentic support can transform lives. Drawing from personal experiences, they discuss spiritual awakening, healing from trauma, grief, and the importance of stopping to truly meet oneself. This episode invites listeners to think about who has guided them, and how they might become a guide in someone else's life. Topics Covered The difference between a teacher and a true guide Why presence leaves a lasting imprint Spiritual embodiment and awakening Learning through grief and loss Creating space for others without losing yourself Living in alignment with universal intelligence Radical self-honesty and emotional responsibility Key Quotes "A great guide doesn't tell you what to do—they help you discover who you really are." "Presence is more powerful than information." "You can only pass something on if you truly embody it." "The work is learning to stop, reflect, and listen to your own needs." Mentions and References Andy Sibson and Andy Sellins (mentors) Dr. Ray Sylvester Raphael (spiritual guide) Joseph Campbell's Hero's Journey Muji and ashram experience Gabor Maté – Authenticity vs. Attachment 12-Step Recovery (Adult Children of Alcoholics) Connect with Pete Website: www.petecohen.com Instagram: @petecohen_ LinkedIn: Pete Cohen Connect with Paul  Paul Hurcomb Conscious Golf Group (Facebook) – for golfers seeking deeper conversations and connection through golf www.meetingsinstillness.com www.Paulhurcomb.Org