I’m joined by Michael O’Brian, an executive coach, speaker, author, and the Chief Calm Officer of the Pause Breathe Reflect™ movement. In 2001, Michael was the marketing lead for a $700M brand and, as he describes it, he was checking everything off the list. He had a college degree, successful career, wife, kids, and a house. But on July 11, 2001, an SUV traveling 40 mph hit him head-on when he was out for a morning bike ride. After being discharged from the ICU, his doctors warned him that he would have a lifetime of limitations, walk with difficulty, and probably never cycle again.

Michael’s mental health took a major hit after receiving that news. He eventually connected with a mentor who emphasized that everything in life is neutral until you label it. He challenged Michael to start a mindfulness practice, which eventually turned into his signature Pause Breathe Reflect™ session that he shares with leaders today. He came up with the acronym G.R.A.C.E., which stands for Gratitude, Reframing, Awareness, Community, and Energy, as a way to become more resilient and achieve success starting from the inside out.

As a way to commemorate t​​he 21st anniversary of his accident and Last Bad Day, he’s embarking on a challenge he’s calling the Rise2Ripple. He’ll be cycling The TransAmerica Bicycle Trail, which is a whopping 4,300 miles and covers 43 states. It’s a celebration of life, generosity, mindfulness, and the beauty of the United States. In our conversation, we also highlight the World Bicycle Relief, a non-profit organization that specializes in large-scale, comprehensive bicycle distribution programs to aid poverty relief in developing countries around the world.

Listen to today’s episode to hear Michael’s inspiring story and learn more about the power of mindful, intentional living.

Listen to the episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, TuneIn, Simplecast, or on your favorite podcast platform.

Topics Covered:

• Embracing the mindset that things happen for you, not to you
• Challenging today’s hustle and grind culture
• Michael’s transformative perspective and approach to achievement and external validation
• How five mindful minutes using Pause, Breathe, Reflect™ can transform your day
• The origin of the word ‘peloton’ and how Michael relied on his community through his recovery
• Showing people what's possible when you slow down and live life mindfully

About our guest:

• Michael’s Instagram
• Michael's Website
• Michael’s YouTube
• Michael’s LinkedIn
• Pause Breathe Reflect Instagram
• Pause Breathe Reflect Website
• Rise 2 Ripple Challenge
• World Bicycle Relief

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• If there’s a topic or charity you want me to highlight on the podcast, DM it to me on Instagram @getbusylivin_pod

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