• From Motherhood to Wellness Warrior: Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Self-Acceptance | Lindsaya VanDeusen
    May 28 2024

    In this heartfelt episode of the Kintsugi Podcast, host Michael O'Brien sits down with Lindsaya VanDusen, a wellness warrior, mom, and advocate for self-love and authenticity. Lindsaya shares her inspiring journey from struggling with self-acceptance to embracing her true self. She discusses her transformative experience with breast implant removal, the challenges of loving her body, and the profound impact of community and self-love practices.


    Key Quotes from Lindsaya:

    1. "I live in a place of such deep empowerment because I am more than my body."
    2. "For so long, I've abused my body. I've treated it like something that had let me down rather than realizing it has always carried me, it has always forgiven me, it has always kept me safe."
    3. "My love for my body, the soul that's contained within this meat suit, is so much admiration for what she has done for me."

    Highlights:

    • Self-Love and Empowerment: Lindsaya discusses the pivotal moment when she decided to embrace self-love and empowerment, despite societal pressures and personal struggles.
    • Breast Implant Journey: A candid recount of Lindsaya’s decision to get breast implants, the subsequent health challenges, and the courageous decision to have them removed.
    • Community and Support: The importance of community in Lindsaya’s healing process and how she created a supportive space for others on similar journeys.
    • Body Positivity: Lindsaya's journey to appreciate and love her body, highlighting the importance of body positivity and self-acceptance.

    Resources:

    • Pause, Breathe, Reflect App: A mindfulness app designed to help bring mindfulness to everyday moments.
    • Wellness Warriors Community: Lindsaya's supportive community for individuals on a wellness journey.

    Connect with Lindsaya:

    • Instagram
    • Facebook
    • Website

    Next Steps: Reflect on what resonated the most with you from Lindsaya’s story. How can you weave these insights into your own life to enhance your journey of self-love and authenticity?


    Please join our Pause Breathe Reflect community by downloading our app from the Apple Store or Google Play today. For the first year, you can Name Your Price and discover how to navigate life with more ease and prevent a bad moment from turning into a bad day.


    It would mean so much if you took a moment to rate, review, subscribe, and share the Kintsugi Podcast to help others discover this empowering community. Tap into your inner strength, embrace resilience, and ripple something worth rippling into the world.


    You can connect with me by receiving my inspirational text messages throughout the week by texting 'kintsugi' to 503-487-5957 and

    downloading My Better Life Workbook at www.michaelobrienshift.com


    Instagram: Pause Breathe Reflect and Kintsugi Podcast

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelobrienpelotoncoaching

    Websites: Discover more at www.michaelobrienshift.com

    Sponsors: Pause Breathe Reflect Meditation and Gratitude App


    To discover more about bringing mindfulness into your company or podcast sponsorship opportunities by emailing me at Michael@PauseBreatheReflect.com

    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 27 mins
  • You Go Where Your Eyes Go - Friday's Pause Breathe Reflect Meditation
    May 24 2024

    Perspective matters and we generally go where our eyes go. This week's Friday Meditation is inspired by my TEDx talk and it's all about what we are paying attention to and where are we looking.


    Join us as we explore the power of mindset and learn how it can change our relationship with stress, improve our sleep, and infuse mindfulness into our everyday moments. And remember, our invitation extends beyond this episode – our app, Pause, Breathe, Reflect, offers additional practices like the one shared today, and you can always join our live practices throughout the week.



    Now, you can “Pay What You Can” for your first year. Yes, for as little as $1, you can become a member of our like-hearted community. You can find the Pause Breathe Reflect app in Apple’s App Store or over at Google Play.


    Take a moment to pause, breathe, and reflect with us as we embark on this journey of self-discovery and mindful living. And as we prepare for the weekend ahead, may we all create ripples of positivity and meaning in the world. Stay tuned for another inspiring story of connection on Tuesday’s episode of the Kintsugi Podcast.


    And be sure to check out our Pause Breathe Reflect gear at www.pausebreathereflect.com - Everything is 90% off through May 31 in celebration of Peloton Executive Coaching's 10 Year Anniversary.


    Please join our Pause Breathe Reflect community by downloading our app from the Apple Store or Google Play today. For the first year, you can Name Your Price and discover how to navigate life with more ease and prevent a bad moment from turning into a bad day.


    It would mean so much if you took a moment to rate, review, subscribe, and share the Kintsugi Podcast to help others discover this empowering community. Tap into your inner strength, embrace resilience, and ripple something worth rippling into the world.


    You can connect with me by receiving my inspirational text messages throughout the week by texting 'kintsugi' to 503-487-5957 and

    downloading My Better Life Workbook at www.michaelobrienshift.com


    Instagram: Pause Breathe Reflect and Kintsugi Podcast

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelobrienpelotoncoaching

    Websites: Discover more at www.michaelobrienshift.com

    Sponsors: Pause Breathe Reflect Meditation and Gratitude App


    To discover more about bringing mindfulness into your company or podcast sponsorship opportunities by emailing me at Michael@PauseBreatheReflect.com

    Show more Show less
    10 mins
  • Redefining Happiness with Stephanie Harrison
    May 21 2024
    Welcome back to another episode of the Kintsugi Podcast! Today, Michael O'Brien sits down with Stephanie Harrison, the visionary behind "New Happy." Stephanie shares her journey from adhering to society's flawed definitions of happiness to developing a new, more fulfilling philosophy. Together, they explore the myths of old happiness and the steps toward embracing a happier, more connected life.Episode Highlights:Community Check-Ins and RealizationsStephanie's Journey: Stephanie discusses how her community check-ins over the years have revealed a common struggle: feelings of inadequacy and unworthiness.Shared Struggles: Realizing these feelings were universal helped Stephanie shift from self-blame to curiosity, eventually leading to her new philosophy on happiness.Old Happy vs. New HappyThe Three Lies of Old Happy: Stephanie breaks down the societal myths about happiness:You're not enough.You must achieve to be happy.You're separate from others.The New Happy Philosophy: Real happiness stems from understanding your worth, sharing your unique gifts, and helping others.Stephanie's New Book: The New HappyA Comprehensive Guide: Stephanie's book condenses ten years of research into a practical guide for finding true happiness.Transformational Tools: The book provides tools to help readers identify their unique gifts and use them to improve their lives and the lives of others.Key Quotes from Stephanie:"The best way to be happy is to help other people to be happy.""Old happy is society's definition or conceptualization of happiness that we're conditioned into from a very early age.""You don't have to trade off your happiness with the happiness of other people. Real happiness is a win-win."Three Action Steps:Connect with Stephanie: Follow Stephanie on Instagram and LinkedIn for daily insights and updates. Visit The New Happy to learn more about her book and philosophy.Join the Pause Breathe Reflect Community: Available on App Store and Google Play.Download the Better Life Workbook: Enhance your journey with foundational exercises designed to improve well-being via www.michaelobrienshift.com Please join our Pause Breathe Reflect community by downloading our app from the Apple Store or Google Play today. For the first year, you can Name Your Price and discover how to navigate life with more ease and prevent a bad moment from turning into a bad day. It would mean so much if you took a moment to rate, review, subscribe, and share the Kintsugi Podcast to help others discover this empowering community. Tap into your inner strength, embrace resilience, and ripple something worth rippling into the world.You can connect with me by receiving my inspirational text messages throughout the week by texting 'kintsugi' to 503-487-5957 and downloading My Better Life Workbook at www.michaelobrienshift.comInstagram: Pause Breathe Reflect and Kintsugi PodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelobrienpelotoncoachingWebsites: Discover more at www.michaelobrienshift.com Sponsors: Pause Breathe Reflect Meditation and Gratitude AppTo discover more about bringing mindfulness into your company or podcast sponsorship opportunities by emailing me at Michael@PauseBreatheReflect.com
    Show more Show less
    49 mins
  • True Impeccable Love - Friday's Pause Breathe Reflect Meditation
    May 17 2024

    This week my wife and I celebrated 30 years of marriage. So this week's Friday Meditation is above true impeccable love. One of my favorite movie is The Princess Bride and one of my favorite lines from it is, "Have Fun Storming The Castle." To me, it's about pursuing true impeccable love despite the odds.


    As you head into the weekend, I encourage you to pursue true love. And you can listen to a longer version of this meditation on our Pause Breathe Reflect app.


    Join us as we explore the power of mindset and learn how it can change our relationship with stress, improve our sleep, and infuse mindfulness into our everyday moments. And remember, our invitation extends beyond this episode – our app, Pause, Breathe, Reflect, offers additional practices like the one shared today, and you can always join our live practices throughout the week.


    Now, you can “Pay What You Can” for your first year. Yes, for as little as $1, you can become a member of our like-hearted community. You can find the Pause Breathe Reflect app in Apple’s App Store or over at Google Play.


    Take a moment to pause, breathe, and reflect with us as we embark on this journey of self-discovery and mindful living. And as we prepare for the weekend ahead, may we all create ripples of positivity and meaning in the world. Stay tuned for another inspiring story of connection on Tuesday’s episode of the Kintsugi Podcast.


    And be sure to check out our Pause Breathe Reflect gear at www.pausebreathereflect.com


    Please join our Pause Breathe Reflect community by downloading our app from the Apple Store or Google Play today. For the first year, you can Name Your Price and discover how to navigate life with more ease and prevent a bad moment from turning into a bad day.


    It would mean so much if you took a moment to rate, review, subscribe, and share the Kintsugi Podcast to help others discover this empowering community. Tap into your inner strength, embrace resilience, and ripple something worth rippling into the world.


    You can connect with me by receiving my inspirational text messages throughout the week by texting 'kintsugi' to 503-487-5957 and

    downloading My Better Life Workbook at www.michaelobrienshift.com


    Instagram: Pause Breathe Reflect and Kintsugi Podcast

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelobrienpelotoncoaching

    Websites: Discover more at www.michaelobrienshift.com

    Sponsors: Pause Breathe Reflect Meditation and Gratitude App


    To discover more about bringing mindfulness into your company or podcast sponsorship opportunities by emailing me at Michael@PauseBreatheReflect.com

    Show more Show less
    11 mins
  • From Loss to Legacy: Emily Halnon’s 460-Mile Tribute Run Across Oregon
    May 14 2024
    Welcome to this week's story of connection on the Kintsugi Podcast. Today, Emily Halnon, an author, ultra-runner, and FKT badass, shares her emotional journey of grief and the healing power of running. Conversation Highlights: Emily opens up about why she turned her experiences of loss and grief into a book, emphasizing the vastness of grief and how a long-distance run across Oregon helped her process these emotions. Michael and Emily discuss the depths of "To the Gorge," which, while seemingly about running, is more of a narrative about how to live through grief and loss and embrace life's full spectrum. Emily describes her intrinsic traits, experiences that have shaped her, and deep connection with her dog, Dilly. Emily recounts her and her mother's battle with devastating diagnoses, reflecting on the unfathomable losses of her family members in a short span, illustrating the harsh, indiscriminate reality of disease. Transitioning to her running journey, Emily shares how her mother's transformation into an avid runner inspired her path in endurance sports, reflecting on their shared experiences and the profound connection they cultivated through running. As Emily discusses her decision to run across Oregon, she explains the motivations behind her run, linking it to the need for a bold, affirming life approach, mirroring how her mother faced life with courage and positivity. With the community's support, Emily delves into the details of her record-setting run, highlighting the crucial role of companionship and moral support in tackling such an extreme physical and emotional challenge. Emily emphasizes the importance of community and sharing moments of joy and struggle, illustrating how relationships and shared experiences can provide strength during challenging times. Michael and Emily reflect on the profound impact of having supportive figures like Danielle during tough times , discussing the importance of presence and empathy in healing. The conversation wraps up with Emily expressing gratitude for the communal support that bolstered her during the run, sharing how this experience underscored the value of connection and resilience. Key Quotes from Emily: "Grief is a really big experience, and it felt clear that I wanted to say more than I could in a 1500 word essay." On community support: "The thing I'm going to get most out of you is just seeing you, is just coming into an aid station, seeing you, high fiving you, hugging you." Reflecting on living fully: "I wanted to be living and running with a more open, vulnerable place. That did open me up to more possibilities of disappointment and failure and devastation, but that also invited things like touching the welcome to Washington sign on the bridge of the gods and realizing I could run across Oregon and have the most special, meaningful run of my life." The Last Mile: Emily's story is a powerful testament to the human spirit's ability to find strength and healing through physical endurance and emotional openness. Her journey encourages us to embrace life fully, even in the face of pain and loss and highlights the indispensable role of community in our lives. Connect with Emily: Website , Instagram and her book, To The Gorge Please join our Pause Breathe Reflect community by downloading our app from the Apple Store or Google Play today. For the first year, you can Name Your Price and discover how to navigate life with more ease and prevent a bad moment from turning into a bad day. It would mean so much if you took a moment to rate, review, subscribe, and share the Kintsugi Podcast to help others discover this empowering community. Tap into your inner strength, embrace resilience, and ripple something worth rippling into the world.You can connect with me by receiving my inspirational text messages throughout the week by texting 'kintsugi' to 503-487-5957 and downloading My Better Life Workbook at www.michaelobrienshift.comInstagram: Pause Breathe Reflect and Kintsugi PodcastLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelobrienpelotoncoachingWebsites: Discover more at www.michaelobrienshift.com Sponsors: Pause Breathe Reflect Meditation and Gratitude AppTo discover more about bringing mindfulness into your company or podcast sponsorship opportunities by emailing me at Michael@PauseBreatheReflect.com
    Show more Show less
    1 hr and 9 mins
  • You Are Worthy - Friday's Pause Breathe Reflect Meditation
    May 10 2024

    We can be so harsh with ourselves. Why is that? You are worthy! Full stop! This week’s Pause Breathe Reflect Meditation is a practice to help you appreciate your value and worthiness. You matter, my friend!


    Join us as we explore the power of mindset and learn how it can change our relationship with stress, improve our sleep, and infuse mindfulness into our everyday moments. And remember, our invitation extends beyond this episode – our app, Pause, Breathe, Reflect, offers additional practices like the one shared today, and you can always join our live practices throughout the week.


    Now, you can “Pay What You Can” for your first year. Yes, for as little as $1, you can become a member of our like-hearted community. You can find the Pause Breathe Reflect app in Apple’s App Store or over at Google Play.


    Take a moment to pause, breathe, and reflect with us as we embark on this journey of self-discovery and mindful living. And as we prepare for the weekend ahead, may we all create ripples of positivity and meaning in the world. Stay tuned for another inspiring story of connection on Tuesday’s episode of the Kintsugi Podcast.


    And be sure to check out our Pause Breathe Reflect gear at www.pausebreathereflect.com


    Please join our Pause Breathe Reflect community by downloading our app from the Apple Store or Google Play today. For the first year, you can Name Your Price and discover how to navigate life with more ease and prevent a bad moment from turning into a bad day.


    It would mean so much if you took a moment to rate, review, subscribe, and share the Kintsugi Podcast to help others discover this empowering community. Tap into your inner strength, embrace resilience, and ripple something worth rippling into the world.


    You can connect with me by receiving my inspirational text messages throughout the week by texting 'kintsugi' to 503-487-5957 and

    downloading My Better Life Workbook at www.michaelobrienshift.com


    Instagram: Pause Breathe Reflect and Kintsugi Podcast

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelobrienpelotoncoaching

    Websites: Discover more at www.michaelobrienshift.com

    Sponsors: Pause Breathe Reflect Meditation and Gratitude App


    To discover more about bringing mindfulness into your company or podcast sponsorship opportunities by emailing me at Michael@PauseBreatheReflect.com

    Show more Show less
    9 mins
  • Open Awareness - Toto, Now We Are In Kansas - The Value of Perspective
    May 7 2024

    Join Michael O’Brien on a transformative journey across America in this week’s episode of the Kintsugi podcast. From the picturesque landscapes of Astoria, Oregon, to the historical plains of Kansas, Michael shares inspiring stories and insightful reflections on resilience, perspective, and mindfulness. Dive deep into the concept of "Open Awareness" and explore how different perspectives can enrich our lives and relationships.


    Episode Highlights:

    1. Introduction to Open Awareness:

      • Michael explains the practice of open versus fixed awareness in meditation, using his cross-country cycling journey as a metaphor for opening up to life’s full spectrum of experiences.
    2. Insightful Anecdotes Across States:

      • Oregon: Emphasizing the strength in asking for help.
      • Idaho and Montana: Living fully and embracing life beyond fear.
      • Wyoming: The flexibility in life plans and expectations.
      • Colorado: The importance of a supportive community or 'peloton'.
    3. Deep Dive into Perspective in Kansas:

      • Michael narrates compelling stories from Kansas, focusing on how rigidly holding onto perspectives can limit us, and sharing a humorous perspective on regional pizza preferences.
    4. Controversial Conversations on Roe vs. Wade:

      • A reflective discussion on the impact of the Supreme Court’s decision and its reception in different communities.
    5. Encouragement to Embrace Broad-mindedness:

      • Michael stresses the importance of being open to diverse viewpoints to foster understanding and cooperation, especially in professional and personal settings.

    Key Quotes:

    • “We don’t just grab onto the good stuff and try to push away or numb or deny bad stuff. We accept that everything happens, and we meet our moments with grace, with thoughtfulness.”
    • “Asking for help is not a sign of weakness. It's actually an invitation to get closer to someone.”
    • “One of our greatest addictions is our addiction to being right.”

    Call to Action: Celebrate your strengths and embrace challenges with open-mindedness. Explore life’s diverse perspectives and create ripples of positive change around you.


    Please join our Pause Breathe Reflect community by downloading our app from the Apple Store or Google Play today. For the first year, you can Name Your Price and discover how to navigate life with more ease and prevent a bad moment from turning into a bad day.


    It would mean so much if you took a moment to rate, review, subscribe, and share the Kintsugi Podcast to help others discover this empowering community. Tap into your inner strength, embrace resilience, and ripple something worth rippling into the world.


    You can connect with me by receiving my inspirational text messages throughout the week by texting 'kintsugi' to 503-487-5957 and

    downloading My Better Life Workbook at www.michaelobrienshift.com


    Instagram: Pause Breathe Reflect and Kintsugi Podcast

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelobrienpelotoncoaching

    Websites: Discover more at www.michaelobrienshift.com

    Sponsors: Pause Breathe Reflect Meditation and Gratitude App


    To discover more about bringing mindfulness into your company or podcast sponsorship opportunities by emailing me at Michael@PauseBreatheReflect.com

    Show more Show less
    25 mins
  • The 3 As - Friday's Pause Breathe Reflect Meditation
    May 3 2024

    This week’s Pause Breathe Reflect Meditation is all about the 3 As and how they can help you feel what you need to feel and take action that will will put a beautiful ripple into the world.


    Join us as we explore the power of mindset and learn how it can change our relationship with stress, improve our sleep, and infuse mindfulness into our everyday moments. And remember, our invitation extends beyond this episode – our app, Pause, Breathe, Reflect, offers additional practices like the one shared today, and you can always join our live practices throughout the week.


    Now, you can “Pay What You Can” for your first year. Yes, for as little as $1, you can become a member of our like-hearted community. You can find the Pause Breathe Reflect app in Apple’s App Store or over at Google Play.


    Take a moment to pause, breathe, and reflect with us as we embark on this journey of self-discovery and mindful living. And as we prepare for the weekend ahead, may we all create ripples of positivity and meaning in the world. Stay tuned for another inspiring story of connection on Tuesday’s episode of the Kintsugi Podcast.


    And be sure to check out our Pause Breathe Reflect gear at www.pausebreathereflect.com


    Please join our Pause Breathe Reflect community by downloading our app from the Apple Store or Google Play today. For the first year, you can Name Your Price and discover how to navigate life with more ease and prevent a bad moment from turning into a bad day.


    It would mean so much if you took a moment to rate, review, subscribe, and share the Kintsugi Podcast to help others discover this empowering community. Tap into your inner strength, embrace resilience, and ripple something worth rippling into the world.


    You can connect with me by receiving my inspirational text messages throughout the week by texting 'kintsugi' to 503-487-5957 and

    downloading My Better Life Workbook at www.michaelobrienshift.com


    Instagram: Pause Breathe Reflect and Kintsugi Podcast

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelobrienpelotoncoaching

    Websites: Discover more at www.michaelobrienshift.com

    Sponsors: Pause Breathe Reflect Meditation and Gratitude App


    To discover more about bringing mindfulness into your company or podcast sponsorship opportunities by emailing me at Michael@PauseBreatheReflect.com

    Show more Show less
    9 mins