The Light Watkins Show

Light Watkins

Have you been dreaming of helping people in a meaningful way, but can’t get past your deepest insecurities or self doubt? The truth is: every change maker has to confront those same fears. The Light Watkins Show is a weekly interview podcast that unpacks the experiences of regular folks who have navigated dark and uncertain times in order to help improve the lives others. Light candidly shares these stories in the hopes of igniting your inspiration so you can start living your purpose!

Light Watkins is a best-selling author and keynote speaker. In 2014, Light started a non-profit variety show called The Shine Movement in Los Angeles, which grew into a global inspirational variety show! In 2020 he started an online personal development community called The Happiness Insiders. His most recent book, Travel Light, documents his one-bagger nomadic journey that he started in 2018.

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237: Plot Twist: Why Achieving Your Dreams Won’t Make You Happier with Zachary Levi, Actor and Mental Health Advocate
Il y a 4j
237: Plot Twist: Why Achieving Your Dreams Won’t Make You Happier with Zachary Levi, Actor and Mental Health Advocate
In this bite-sized episode of The Light Watkins Show, actor and mental health advocate Zachary Levi shares a deeply personal and powerful story about the ups and downs of his career and mental health journey. Known for his starring roles in Shazam and American Underdog, Zachary’s path to success wasn’t as smooth as it might seem. In fact, when his dreams of acting came true, his personal life hit some of its lowest points.Zachary opens up about the pivotal moment when his career began to take off and how that success strained his relationship with his mother. He talks candidly about the mental health challenges he faced, including depression and suicidal thoughts, even when it appeared from the outside that he had it all. The episode dives deep into his struggles with self-worth, the impact of unresolved trauma, and how he used therapy to transform his life.Listeners will find Zachary’s honesty and vulnerability inspiring as he reflects on what it means to find true purpose and happiness, even when life’s plot twists lead to unexpected places. Whether you're a fan of his work or someone looking for inspiration on navigating your own challenges, this episode delivers powerful insights into resilience, mental health, and the importance of doing the inner work.Tune in for an episode filled with lessons on perseverance, self-discovery, and how the toughest moments can sometimes open the door to our greatest growth.And if you’re curious to know how the rest of his story plays out, click here.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
236: How to Orgasm Your Way to Enlightenment with Sexpert and Meditation Guru, Emily Fletcher
Il y a 6j
236: How to Orgasm Your Way to Enlightenment with Sexpert and Meditation Guru, Emily Fletcher
In this episode of The Light Watkins Show, Light Watkins sits down with Emily Fletcher, a former Broadway performer turned renowned meditation teacher, founder of Ziva Meditation, and host of the popular podcast Why Isn't Everyone Doing This?. Emily shares her journey from the bright lights of Broadway to becoming a leading voice in the wellness space, where she’s impacted hundreds of thousands of people with her meditation techniques, courses, and insights.Listeners will be inspired by Emily’s story of transformation and her commitment to living authentically, even when faced with life’s toughest challenges. In this conversation, she reveals her personal rituals and practices that help her stay grounded, balanced, and focused—especially during times of upheaval. Emily talks about the importance of daily routines, the power of manifesting your desires, and how she uses her unique approach to sexual energy to enhance creativity and achieve her goals.This episode also offers valuable insights for anyone interested in starting a podcast, writing a book, or stepping out of their comfort zone to pursue their passions. Emily’s practical advice on balancing personal growth with professional success, particularly as a parent, will resonate with many. Whether you're a seasoned meditator or just beginning your journey into mindfulness, this episode provides actionable takeaways and a wealth of inspiration.Tune in to hear Light and Emily dive deep into what it takes to truly follow your path and create a life of purpose, fulfillment, and impact.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
235: Plot Twist: What Happens When Your Life Plans Get Disrupted by an Ill Parent with Dr. Rangan Chatterjee, Author and Holistic Health Expert
30-08-2024
235: Plot Twist: What Happens When Your Life Plans Get Disrupted by an Ill Parent with Dr. Rangan Chatterjee, Author and Holistic Health Expert
In this episode of The Light Watkins Show, host Light Watkins sits down with Dr. Rangan Chatterjee, renowned author and host of the Feel Better, Live More podcast, to explore the deep connection between happiness, success, and what truly matters in life. Dr. Chatterjee shares his personal journey of discovering the importance of core happiness, a concept he developed and discusses in his latest book, "Happy Mind, Happy Life."Dr. Chatterjee's story is both powerful and relatable, rooted in his experience caring for his immigrant father, who sacrificed his health while striving to provide a better life for his family. This challenging time led Dr. Chatterjee to rethink what success really means and how easily it can be confused with true happiness.Throughout the conversation, Dr. Chatterjee introduces the idea of core happiness as a "three-legged stool" supported by alignment, contentment, and control. He explains how each of these elements plays a crucial role in living a fulfilling life and offers practical advice on how to strengthen these "legs" to achieve lasting happiness.Listeners will gain valuable insights into why many of us chase the wrong dreams and how to realign our goals with what truly brings joy and satisfaction. Whether you're struggling with stress, feeling unfulfilled, or simply looking for ways to enhance your well-being, this episode provides actionable tips and inspiring stories that will encourage you to rethink your approach to success and happiness.And if  you’re curious to know how the rest of his story plays out, click here.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
234: How to Heal After a Breakup, Cultivate True Love, and Build Healthier Relationships with Mark Groves, Human Connection Specialist and Author of Liberated Love
28-08-2024
234: How to Heal After a Breakup, Cultivate True Love, and Build Healthier Relationships with Mark Groves, Human Connection Specialist and Author of Liberated Love
In this enlightening episode of The Light Watkins Show, Light sits down with Mark Groves, a human connection specialist known for his candid and practical approach to improving relationships. Mark’s journey from a successful career in pharmaceutical sales to becoming a relationship coach is a testament to his passion for helping others build healthier, more fulfilling connections.Mark dives deep into his personal experiences, sharing how his father played a pivotal role in shaping his emotional intelligence. He reflects on how these early influences, along with the ups and downs of his romantic relationships, have guided his understanding of love and emotional vulnerability.One of the key concepts discussed is the idea of a “sacred pause” in relationships—a practice Mark believes can be transformative for healing and growth. He also opens up about the difficult decision to break off a five-year engagement, offering valuable insights into recognizing misalignment in relationships and having the courage to make tough choices.Listeners will also learn about Mark’s transition into relationship coaching, his focus on breaking codependent patterns, and the practical tools he uses, such as cold exposure and breath work, to enhance emotional regulation and relationship health. Mark and his wife, Kylie, recently co-authored Liberated Love, a book that explores these themes and offers actionable advice for creating authentic, liberated relationships.Tune in to discover how you can apply these lessons to your own life, whether you're looking to improve your relationships, navigate personal growth, or simply understand yourself better.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
233: Plot Twist: How Surrendering and Letting Go Can Lead to Finding Your True Purpose with Kyle Cease, Transformational Comedian
23-08-2024
233: Plot Twist: How Surrendering and Letting Go Can Lead to Finding Your True Purpose with Kyle Cease, Transformational Comedian
In this episode of The Light Watkins Show, Light Watkins revisits a powerful and transformative moment from a past conversation with Kyle Cease, a comedian turned transformational speaker and New York Times bestselling author. Kyle shares a pivotal plot twist in his life, where his successful career in comedy took an unexpected turn that ultimately led him to discover his true calling.At the height of his comedy career, Kyle was performing regularly, yet he began to experience intense anxiety and fear on stage, culminating in a moment where he considered ending it all. When conventional solutions failed to provide answers, Kyle was led to a bookstore, where he discovered Tony Robbins’ work. This encounter marked the beginning of a profound inner journey that would shift his entire life direction.Listeners will hear Kyle’s inspiring story of how a series of seemingly negative experiences—crippling anxiety, a brush with suicidal thoughts, and a search for meaning—became the gateway to his transformation. Today, Kyle is known for his unique blend of comedy and personal development, helping thousands of people worldwide break through their own barriers.This episode offers valuable insights into how life’s unexpected twists and challenges can lead to a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment. For anyone who feels stuck or is facing their own challenges, Kyle’s story serves as a reminder that sometimes the path to your true calling comes through the most unexpected detours. Tune in to hear how Kyle turned his struggles into a powerful force for change and how you can do the same in your own life. And to see what happens once he goes all in on his transformational comedy, click here.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
232: How to Redeem Your Life, Break the Cycle of Violence, and Inspire Change with Cobe Williams, Professional Peacemaker and Author of "Interrupting Violence"
21-08-2024
232: How to Redeem Your Life, Break the Cycle of Violence, and Inspire Change with Cobe Williams, Professional Peacemaker and Author of "Interrupting Violence"
In this episode of The Light Watkins Show, Light Watkins sits down with Cobe Williams, a true example of transformation and redemption. Cobe’s story is one of overcoming incredible odds and breaking free from a life of violence. Growing up on the South Side of Chicago, Cobe followed in the footsteps of his father, a gang member, and spent years in and out of prison. But his journey didn’t end there.After multiple incarcerations, Cobe decided to turn his life around, inspired by the desire to be a better father for his son. Today, Cobe is a professional peacemaker, working with Cure Violence Global to mediate conflicts, mentor at-risk youth, and prevent violence in inner-city communities. His work is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to change your path and make a positive impact on the world.In this conversation, Light and Cobe dive deep into the moments that shaped Cobe’s life, from his early experiences with his father to the pivotal moment that set him on a new course. They discuss the challenges of life after prison, the importance of building trust within communities, and the incredible power of redemption.Listeners will learn how Cobe uses his past experiences to connect with young people, helping them see that there’s a way out of the cycle of violence. This episode offers practical insights into how anyone can inspire change in their own lives and in the lives of others. Whether you’re interested in community work, personal growth, or simply hearing a powerful story of redemption, this episode is not to be missed.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
231: Plot Twist: How Healing Your Body with Just Your Mind May Be More Possible Than You Think with Kelly Noonan Gores, Director of HEAL
16-08-2024
231: Plot Twist: How Healing Your Body with Just Your Mind May Be More Possible Than You Think with Kelly Noonan Gores, Director of HEAL
In this special "Plot Twist" episode of The Light Watkins Show, Light Watkins revisits a pivotal moment from a past conversation with Kelly Noonan Gores, the creator and director of the acclaimed documentary HEAL. Kelly shares the inspiring story of how her deep curiosity and a life-changing discovery led her to follow her heart and pursue a dream she had been nurturing for over a decade.In this bite-sized episode, listeners will hear how Kelly, who had no prior experience directing a film, was moved to investigate the incredible stories of people who healed themselves using the power of their minds. The spark that ignited her journey was reading about a woman who healed herself of stage four cancer—a story so compelling that Kelly felt an undeniable pull to create a documentary to explore the connection between mind and body in healing.Light and Kelly discuss the challenges she faced along the way, including self-doubt, the fear of failure, and navigating the complexities of the film industry. Kelly also reflects on the importance of trusting your intuition, following what excites you, and embracing the unexpected twists and turns that life presents.This episode is perfect for anyone seeking inspiration to follow their passion, especially when the path forward is unclear. Whether you're a creative professional, an entrepreneur, or simply someone looking to make a meaningful change in your life, Kelly’s story will remind you that sometimes the biggest leaps of faith start with a single step in the direction of your dreams. And if you’re curious about what was Kelly's diagnosis and how she was able to heal from it, click here. Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
230: How to Break Free from Self-Doubt, Overcome Mental Barriers, and Live Your Best Life with Peter Crone, The Mind Architect
14-08-2024
230: How to Break Free from Self-Doubt, Overcome Mental Barriers, and Live Your Best Life with Peter Crone, The Mind Architect
In this episode of The Light Watkins Show, Light sits down with Peter Crone, known as the "MindArchitect," to explore the transformative power of mindset. Peter is renowned for his work with athletes, celebrities, and high performers, helping them break free from mental blocks and self-imposed limitations. But his journey to becoming a leading voice in personal development was anything but ordinary.Peter shares the incredible story of his early life, including the tragic loss of both his parents at a young age, which forced him into survival mode and set him on a path of deep self-discovery. From a small village in the UK to the bustling city of Los Angeles, Peter's journey is a testament to resilience and the power of the mind to overcome adversity.Listeners will hear Peter's unique philosophy on dissolving problems rather than solving them, and how he helps others realize that many of their perceived issues are rooted in irrational fears. He also delves into the importance of stepping into one’s true self and living with authenticity, even when it means going against the grain.Throughout the episode, Peter and Light engage in a profound conversation about relationships, personal growth, and the nature of true freedom. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone looking to break free from their own mental prisons and live a more fulfilled life.Tune in to discover how Peter Crone uses his unique approach to help people unlock their full potential and why understanding the mind is key to living a life of purpose and freedom.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
229: Plot Twist: How to Get Out of Debt and Depression with Humble the Poet
09-08-2024
229: Plot Twist: How to Get Out of Debt and Depression with Humble the Poet
In this week’s Plot Twist episode of The Light Watkins Show, we revisit the story of Humble the Poet, a renowned author, rapper, and spoken word artist, to uncover the extraordinary twists and turns of his life's journey. Humble the Poet shares an inspiring and candid story about how he faced and overcame tremendous challenges, including financial ruin and personal heartbreak.Listeners will hear about a pivotal moment when Humble was deceived into believing he had secured a lucrative music deal, only to find himself nearly $100,000 in debt with no job and no prospects. Forced to move back in with his parents, he struggled with depression and uncertainty. Yet, instead of giving up, Humble decided to take small, determined steps toward his dream of making music.Through perseverance and a grassroots approach, Humble began to rebuild his career. He helped his friend, popular YouTube creator Lilly Singh, and worked tirelessly on his craft. His self-published book, Unlearn, eventually caught the attention of Charlemagne the God from The Breakfast Club, setting the stage for a major turning point in his career.Light and Humble delve into the emotional and mental aspects of hitting rock bottom and the powerful process of climbing back up. They discuss the importance of rest, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of one's passion. Humble's story is a testament to the idea that setbacks can be set up for future success. If you’re curious how Humble the Poet finally made it onto The Breakfast Club, click here.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
228: 5 Proven Ways to Get Unstuck in Life: A Solo Episode with Light Watkins
07-08-2024
228: 5 Proven Ways to Get Unstuck in Life: A Solo Episode with Light Watkins
In this solo episode of The Light Watkins Show, Light Watkins dives deep into the transformative process of getting unstuck in life. Drawing from his recent workshop titled "5 Proven Ways to Get Unstuck in Life," Light shares valuable insights and actionable techniques to help listeners move progressively toward their purpose.Light Watkins, a renowned meditation teacher, author, and speaker, begins by discussing the common feelings of being overwhelmed and directionless. He explains how these feelings can prevent us from hearing our heart’s guidance and taking the necessary leaps of faith. Through personal anecdotes, Light illustrates the importance of choosing to be oneself and following one’s curiosity.Listeners will learn about the non-negotiable elements of creating meaningful change, understanding what is within their control, and how to build momentum. Light emphasizes the significance of asking stronger questions, chipping away at distractions, and disrupting the status quo to achieve clarity and focus.One of the key highlights of this episode is Light's personal journey from his only real job in advertising to his successful careers in modeling and wellness. He shares stories about pivotal moments that shaped his path, including his experiences with meditation and yoga, and how they helped him find inner peace and fulfillment.By the end of this episode, listeners will have five real-world, actionable techniques to start getting unstuck today. Light's relatable storytelling and practical advice make this episode a must-listen for anyone feeling overwhelmed, directionless, or in need of motivation to make meaningful changes in their life.Tune in to gain inspiration and practical tips from Light Watkins as he guides you on how to move from being stuck to living a life aligned with your purpose.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
227: Plot Twist: From College Dropout to Spiritual Entrepreneur, Embracing Life's Setbacks with Tami Simon, Founder of Sounds True
02-08-2024
227: Plot Twist: From College Dropout to Spiritual Entrepreneur, Embracing Life's Setbacks with Tami Simon, Founder of Sounds True
In this inspiring episode of The Light Watkins Show, Light Watkins sits down with Tami Simon, founder of Sounds True Publishing, to explore the incredible journey that led her to discover her true calling. Tami shares the pivotal moments in her life, starting with a trip to India that took an unexpected turn and set her on a path she never could have imagined.Tami recounts how getting sick in India forced her to return home, but also ignited a deep desire to drop out of college and dedicate her life to spirituality. Through a series of unexpected twists and turns, including waiting tables at a Chinese restaurant and volunteering at a local radio station, Tami's journey is a testament to the power of following one's inner calling, no matter how unconventional it may seem.Listeners will be captivated by Tami’s stories of perseverance and faith, including how a chance encounter with a crystal enthusiast led her to start Sounds True, a publishing company dedicated to disseminating spiritual wisdom. Tami’s journey is filled with moments of self-discovery, from her struggles with academic life to finding peace and purpose in audio journalism and spiritual teachings.This episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling lost or uncertain about their path. Tami’s experiences remind us that sometimes the greatest opportunities arise from the most unexpected circumstances. Join Light Watkins and Tami Simon as they dive into a conversation about resilience, faith, and the incredible power of trusting your instincts. Discover how embracing life’s plot twists can lead you to your true purpose.If you want to see how Tami grew Sounds True to what it is today, go to episode 64, at exactly the 1-hour mark.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
226: The Science Behind Defeating Stress, Why There's No Such Thing as Free Will, and the Impact of Determinism on Society with Dr. Robert Sapolsky, Renowned Neuroscientist and Primatologist
31-07-2024
226: The Science Behind Defeating Stress, Why There's No Such Thing as Free Will, and the Impact of Determinism on Society with Dr. Robert Sapolsky, Renowned Neuroscientist and Primatologist
In this captivating episode of The Light Watkins Show, host Light Watkins sits down with the renowned Dr. Robert Sapolsky, a neuroscientist, primatologist, and acclaimed author of "Why Zebras Don’t Get Ulcers" and "Determined." Known for his extensive research on baboons and their stress-related behaviors, Dr. Sapolsky dives deep into his fascinating journey from growing up as an Orthodox Jew in Brooklyn to becoming a leading voice on the science of stress and the concept of free will.Listeners will be intrigued as Dr. Sapolsky shares the pivotal moments that shaped his path, including his teenage realization that led to atheism and his early obsession with primates. He recounts his experiences in the Serengeti, observing baboons' complex social structures and drawing parallels to human behavior. Dr. Sapolsky's insights reveal how stress impacts our health, why certain individuals are more prone to stress-related diseases, and the surprising similarities between baboon and human social dynamics.The conversation takes a thought-provoking turn as Light and Dr. Sapolsky discuss the illusion of free will, exploring how our choices and actions might be more predetermined than we think. They delve into the implications of this idea for society, touching on topics like criminal justice, personal responsibility, and the human tendency to seek punishment and reward.With engaging anecdotes and clear explanations, Dr. Sapolsky breaks down complex scientific concepts into relatable, everyday language. This episode promises to leave listeners pondering their own beliefs about free will and how much control we truly have over our lives.Tune in for an enlightening and inspiring discussion that challenges conventional wisdom and offers a fresh perspective on the forces that shape our behavior. Don’t miss this chance to hear from one of the most brilliant minds in neuroscience and primatology, only on The Light Watkins Show.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
225: Plot Twist: How to Increase Your Fortune, One Bold Leap at a Time, with Best Selling and Speaker Author Kute Blackson
26-07-2024
225: Plot Twist: How to Increase Your Fortune, One Bold Leap at a Time, with Best Selling and Speaker Author Kute Blackson
In this episode of The Light Watkins Show, host Light Watkins shares a special "Plot Twist" episode from author and speaker Kute Blackson. A Plot Twist is a short clip from past episodes where guests talk about life-changing moments that took them in new directions.In this episode, Kute Blackson tells the incredible story of moving from Ghana to America. He starts with a touching conversation with his mother, who supports him when he decides not to take over his father’s church. Despite being scared, Kute bravely tells his father about his decision, knowing it might disappoint him. This choice leads to two years of silence between them.Kute then talks about his dream of going to America with no money, no connections, and no formal education. He shares how he won the Green Card Lottery against all odds, strengthening his belief in trusting the universe and following his gut feelings.Kute’s determination will inspire listeners as he struggles but never gives up in a new country. He explains how he worked hard to meet Steven Spielberg to pitch his dream of becoming the next Oprah. His commitment to his vision is truly inspiring.Throughout the episode, Kute talks about being true to yourself, staying strong, and following your real path, even when it’s tough. His story reminds us that life’s unexpected turns can lead us to our true purpose.Tune in to hear Kute Blackson’s incredible leap of faith and discover how embracing life’s twists and turns can help you find your true purpose. And just when you think you’ve heard it all, Kute shares a surprising encounter with Steven Spielberg that changed everything—don’t miss the exciting details!Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
224: How Creating Your Personal Brand and Living Your Truth Leads to Authenticity and Joy with Branding Expert and Author Jessica Zweig
24-07-2024
224: How Creating Your Personal Brand and Living Your Truth Leads to Authenticity and Joy with Branding Expert and Author Jessica Zweig
In this week’s episode of The Light Watkins Show, Light sits down with Jessica Zweig, author of The Light Work: Reclaim Your Feminine Power, Live Your Cosmic Truth and Illuminate The World. Jessica shares her incredible journey from a struggling young entrepreneur to a powerful voice in personal branding, authenticity, and spiritual growth.Listeners are invited to delve into Jessica's upbringing in the affluent Jewish suburb of Highland Park, Chicago, and explore how her early challenges with body image and fitting in shaped her path. Jessica candidly discusses her experiences with the "fake it till you make it" philosophy and offers valuable insights into navigating a business divorce—a scenario many entrepreneurs face.Jessica's story is filled with relatable moments, including her struggle with body dysmorphia and her transformative journey to Egypt. She reveals how her visit to the temples and pyramids opened her eyes to a new perspective on life, joy, and spiritual fulfillment. Jessica emphasizes the importance of mentors, both in business and spiritual growth, and shares actionable tips for integrating a personal and professional brand.Throughout the conversation, Light and Jessica explore the deep and sometimes painful lessons learned from family dynamics, especially her relationship with her father. They also discuss the power of authenticity and the necessity of embracing one's shadow to fully express their light.This episode is a treasure trove of actionable insights, nuggets of wisdom, and personal anecdotes that can inspire anyone on an entrepreneurial or spiritual journey. Join Light Watkins and Jessica Zweig for an engaging and enlightening discussion that promises to leave you with a renewed sense of purpose and a fresh perspective on living your best life.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
223: Plot Twist: From Being Cheated On to Becoming Awesome, with Bestselling Author Neil Pasricha
19-07-2024
223: Plot Twist: From Being Cheated On to Becoming Awesome, with Bestselling Author Neil Pasricha
In this Plot Twist episode of The Light Watkins Show, we revisit Neil Pasricha's inspiring story and highlight a pivotal moment that transformed his life forever.Neil Pasricha, the author and motivational speaker behind the popular blog 1000 Awesome Things, began his blog during a tumultuous period. After enduring a heartbreaking divorce and the tragic loss of his best friend to suicide, Neil sought a way to lift his spirits. He started the blog as a small project to focus on the little joys in life, not knowing it would become a worldwide sensation.In this episode, Neil shares his experiences of starting 1000 Awesome Things, a project that began with modest intentions but became a beacon of positivity for millions. He talks about the challenges he faced in keeping up with daily posts, the unexpected growth of his audience, and how writing about everyday joys helped him navigate his darkest times.Listeners will hear about the blog's origins, the moments of doubt, and the small victories that kept Neil going. His story is a powerful reminder of the impact of gratitude and the transformative power of focusing on the positive aspects of life. Neil's journey from personal despair to becoming a leading voice in positive thinking is a testament to resilience and the importance of mental well-being.Here’s what’s covered in Neil’s plot twist episode:01:36 - Neil's journey through divorce03:44 - The impact of a friend’s suicide05:08 - Neil's lowest point in life06:13 - How to stay positive amid tragedy10:47 - How to get things done no matter the circumstance16:08 - The power of journaling and why start today20:35 - How to keep your 9-5 while pursuing your passion25:14 - Life at a crossroads? Ask yourself these two questionsWant to find out how the rest of Neil's story played out? Check out his full episode here.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
222: How to Overcome Resistance Around Creativity and Finding Your Muse with War of Art Author, Steven Pressfield
17-07-2024
222: How to Overcome Resistance Around Creativity and Finding Your Muse with War of Art Author, Steven Pressfield
In this week’s episode of The Light Watkins Show, Light Watkins sits down with bestselling author Steven Pressfield, known for his influential book The War of Art and his latest release, The Daily Pressfield. Steven shares profound insights into the creative process, discussing the ever-present struggle with resistance and the importance of showing up consistently to overcome it.Steven offers a unique perspective on creativity, likening it to an improv exercise where there's always something in the box waiting to be discovered. He emphasizes the concept of the muse, a creative force that consistently provides ideas, and how crucial it is to invite this muse into our lives through disciplined practice.Steven also shares personal anecdotes, including how carrying the Bhagavad Gita on flights led him to a breakthrough book idea. Light and Steven explore the importance of mindset in the creative journey, with Steven offering practical tips for writers and creators on how to entice the muse and defeat resistance.The episode is packed with actionable advice for aspiring writers and creatives. Steven discusses the necessity of consistency, the significance of not judging your work too harshly, and the benefits of embracing imposter syndrome as a sign of stretching one's potential. He also shares fascinating stories from his career, including a strange writing circumstance that involved a medical condition and standing up to write.Listeners will also learn about Steven’s upcoming intimate writer's workshop in California, where attendees can gain his personal instruction. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone looking to deepen their creative practice and overcome the blocks that hinder their progress. Don’t miss this engaging conversation with one of the most insightful voices in the creative world.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
220: Why Your Darkest Truth is Your Greatest Creative Weapon with Spoken Word Prodigy, IN-Q
10-07-2024
220: Why Your Darkest Truth is Your Greatest Creative Weapon with Spoken Word Prodigy, IN-Q
In this episode of The Light Watkins Show, Light Watkins welcomes back the dynamic poet and spoken word performer Adam Schmalholz, better known as IN-Q. Light dives into an inspiring conversation with IN-Q, exploring the extraordinary journey of one of today's most electric spoken word artists.IN-Q opens up about his latest project, The Never Ending Now Poetry Journal, a 10-week guided journal designed to help individuals express their dreams, growth, fears, and gratitude through the power of poetry. He shares the story behind the creation of this journal and its accompanying album, emphasizing the transformative impact of storytelling and self-expression.Listeners will hear about IN-Q's personal experiences, including his sensitive and raw journey through therapy and a pivotal conversation with his wife that became a key element of his album. IN-Q reveals the deeply personal nature of his work and the courage it takes to share such vulnerable moments with the world.The episode also features engaging discussions about creativity, vulnerability, and the power of art to heal and inspire. IN-Q's insights into his creative process, his thoughts on the importance of authenticity in art, and his perspective on the role of vulnerability in personal growth provide valuable takeaways for listeners.Light and IN-Q's conversation is not just an interview but a heartfelt exchange between two friends, making it a rich and relatable experience for the audience. Tune in to discover how IN-Q's work can inspire you to embrace your own creative journey and find deeper meaning and connection in your life.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!
218: Mastering Viral Content and An Unconventional Approach to Modern Mindfulness with Author and Social Media Influencer Cory Allen
03-07-2024
218: Mastering Viral Content and An Unconventional Approach to Modern Mindfulness with Author and Social Media Influencer Cory Allen
In this episode of The Light Watkins Show, host Light Watkins sits down with author, podcast host, and meditation expert Cory Allen for an inspiring and insightful conversation. Cory, a daily meditator for over 25 years, shares his journey from a chaotic family environment to becoming a renowned digital creator, author, and podcast host. With a following that reaches over a million people weekly on Instagram, Cory’s content on mental clarity and motivation has resonated deeply with his audience.Light and Cory dive deep into the secrets behind Cory’s viral Instagram posts, offering valuable tips for creators looking to grow their online presence. Cory breaks down his analytical approach to content creation, providing a unique perspective on how to gauge and optimize the impact of social media posts. This episode is a treasure trove of practical advice for aspiring influencers and anyone interested in the digital space.Listeners will also get an intimate look into Cory’s personal story, including how his unstable childhood led him to self-discovery and daily meditation. Cory’s candid sharing of his life’s challenges and triumphs offers a relatable and motivational narrative that underscores the importance of perseverance and inner growth.Additionally, the episode explores Cory’s innovative approach to music production and his early days of growing his Instagram page. Light’s thoughtful questions guide the conversation, making it easy for listeners to connect with Cory’s experiences and insights.Tune in and discover how Cory Allen has turned his life’s obstacles into opportunities, and learn practical strategies for finding your path and purpose. Whether you’re a creator, a meditator, or someone seeking inspiration, this episode promises to leave you with actionable takeaways and a renewed sense of possibility. Don’t miss this engaging and uplifting conversation.Send us a text message. We'd love to hear from you!