The Power of Admitting Fault: Transforming Relationships and Dismantling the Ego

In this episode of 'Permission to Evolve,' host Brandon Thielk, a performance and life coach, along with co-host Holly Deschenes, delves into the importance of admitting fault and its impact on relationships. Continuing from their previous discussion on the permission to make mistakes, this episode explores the challenges posed by the ego in taking responsibility for our actions. Brandon explains how admitting mistakes can improve relationships, create clarity, and reduce tension. They discuss overcoming the pain and shame associated with errors and emphasize the importance of vulnerability and self-awareness. Practical steps for admitting fault and fostering better communication and honesty are shared. The episode also highlights the benefits of conflict resolution and how these discussions foster intimacy and mutual respect in relationships.

00:00 Introduction to Permission to Evolve

00:15 The Importance of Admitting Fault

01:17 Ego and Its Impact on Relationships

02:20 Taking Responsibility and Facing Hard Truths

04:19 The Role of Vulnerability in Growth

05:32 Understanding and Dissolving the Ego

13:13 Childhood Influences on Ego Development

22:54 The Power of Vulnerability and Responsibility

25:24 Navigating Relationships and Personal Growth

28:02 Understanding the Impact of Fear on Our Lives

28:33 The Importance of Emotional Maturity

28:54 Taking Responsibility for Change

30:00 The Role of Trust in Relationships

31:11 Navigating Relationships with Caution

32:14 Building Trust Through Consistency

36:19 The Power of Admitting Fault

44:41 Steps to Practice Admitting Fault

49:48 Reflecting on Personal Growth

53:54 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Events

🔗 LINKS:

Free Strategy Session: https://brandonthielk.com/

Newsletter Signup: https://brandonthielk.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandonthielk/

TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@bthielk

Upcoming Live Event (Madison, WI): October 25th

In this episode of Permission to Evolve, hosts Brandon Thielk, a performance and life coach, and co-host Holly Deschenes, discuss the concept of granting oneself the permission to make mistakes without fear of judgment. They explore the origins of the inner critic, the impact of past experiences on current behavior, and how societal and environmental factors shape our fear of making errors. By promoting self-compassion and viewing mistakes as opportunities for learning and growth, the podcast aims to help individuals develop resilience and embrace their creativity. Practical tips and reflective questions are provided to encourage listeners to take small, playful steps towards their goals. Upcoming events and ways to connect with Brandon for deeper work are also highlighted.

00:00 Introduction to Permission to Evolve

00:07 The Fear of Making Mistakes

02:10 Personal Stories of Perfectionism

03:16 The Impact of Upbringing on Perfectionism

04:37 Navigating Creative Blocks

05:59 The Role of Self-Compassion

08:50 Reframing Mistakes as Learning Experiences

17:44 Experimentation and Finding Clarity

26:21 Redesigning Your Mind for Success

26:28 The Power of Travel and New Experiences

27:05 Embracing Failure as a Learning Tool

27:46 Specific Examples: Athletes, Entrepreneurs, and Artists

28:42 Building a Supportive Team

29:56 The Role of Courage in Personal Growth

31:23 Learning from Mistakes and Adjusting

33:37 Overcoming Judgments and Criticism

37:12 Taking Small, Safe Steps to Experiment

43:16 Reflection and Asking Deeper Questions

46:42 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Events

🔗 LINKS:

Free Strategy Session: https://brandonthielk.com/

Newsletter Signup: https://brandonthielk.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandonthielk/

TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@bthielk

Upcoming Live Event (Madison, WI): October 25th

Hosted by: Brandon Thielk(Performance & Life Coach)

Co-host: Holly Deschenes (Producer)

Are you living for yourself, or for someone else’s approval? In this episode, Brandon and Holly dive deep into the “status game,” the pursuit of freedom, and how to break free from the expectations that keep us stuck. If you’ve ever felt trapped by titles, possessions, or the need for validation, this conversation is your permission slip to start living authentically.

What You’ll Learn:

• How to break free from the status game and societal expectations
• Redefining success and freedom on your own terms
• Navigating midlife transitions and career pivots
• Embracing self-discovery, unlearning, and personal growth
• Finding fulfillment beyond external validation

• 00:00 – Welcome & Introduction: The Status Game and Permission to Be Free
• 01:01 – Why Titles and Status Are Often Meaningless
• 02:07 – The Trap of Chasing Possessions and External Validation
• 04:35 – The Journey of Self-Discovery and Internal Motivation
• 09:08 – Social Media, Numbers, and the Meaning of True Connection
• 10:49 – The Comparison Game and Building a Life That’s Yours
• 14:51 – Detaching from External Validation and Building Inner Worth
• 20:01 – Redefining Freedom: Taking Inventory of Your Life
• 21:26 – The Fear of Starting Over and Embracing Evolution
• 24:54 – Realigning Skills and Making Conscious Transitions
• 27:46 – Surrender, Unlearning, and Letting Go of Labels
• 32:32 – Embodying Change: Taking Action and Building Momentum
• 38:58 – Journal Prompts for Self-Reflection and Authentic Living
• 50:44 – How to Work with Brandon & Upcoming Events
• 52:03 – Group Coaching, Community, and Staying Connected
• 53:46 – Final Thoughts: Challenge the Status Quo & Set Yourself Free

Key Takeaways & Journal Prompts:

• If no one was watching, what would you choose to do?
• Where are you still trading freedom for approval?
• What would life look like if you stopped performing and started living?

Spend some time in solitude reflecting on these questions to connect with your authentic self.

Resources & Links:

Free Strategy Session: https://brandonthielk.com/

Newsletter Signup: https://brandonthielk.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandonthielk/

TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@bthielk

Upcoming Live Event (Madison, WI): October 25th

Connect with Us:

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, rate, and leave a review!

Share your biggest takeaway or your own definition of freedom by tagging us on social media or leaving a comment.

Embracing Uncertainty: Growth, Trust, and Creativity in Life and Business

In this episode of Permission to Evolve, host Brandon Thielk, a performance and life coach, and his co-host Holly Deschenes, delve into the concept of 'the permission to not know.' They discuss the importance of embracing uncertainty, the growth that comes from stepping out of comfort zones, and the creative opportunities that arise when breaking free from patterns. The conversation touches on personal experiences of uncertainty, the balance between security and risk, and practical advice for managing periods of uncertainty. They emphasize the importance of reflection, the role of discomfort in personal development, and how aligning with purpose rather than fear can lead to a more fulfilling life. The episode concludes with tips on how to find comfort in uncertainty, the importance of slowing down, and the benefits of coaching for accelerating personal growth.

00:00 Introduction to Permission to Evolve

00:12 Embracing Uncertainty

00:54 Personal Experiences with Uncertainty

04:09 The Need for Certainty

12:59 Balancing Action and Reflection

27:16 Finding Comfort in Discomfort

28:19 Understanding Internal Conflict and Limiting Beliefs

28:50 Embracing the Gap and Finding Clarity

29:55 The Importance of Timing and Intuition

30:31 Aligning Actions with Purpose

31:29 Navigating Challenges and Resistance

32:01 The Role of Reflection and Feedback

33:08 Balancing Action and Inaction

33:56 Overcoming Anxiety and Negative Thoughts

34:58 Grounding in the Present Moment

36:12 The Power of Coaching and Guidance

37:11 Practical Tips for Navigating Uncertainty

47:27 The Growth and Rewards of Embracing Uncertainty

52:12 Connecting and Engaging with the Community

Connect with Brandon:

https://brandonthielk.com

Meditation Tips: https://youtu.be/hRXsalJIzZM

https://www.instagram.com/brandonthielk/

https://www.tiktok.com/@bthielk?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

https://www.instagram.com/permissiontoevolvepodcast/

Breaking Free from the Past: Achieving Presence and Peak Performance

In this episode of 'Permission to Evolve,' host Brandon Thielk, a performance and life coach, and co-host Holly Deschenes dive into the concept of achieving presence by detaching from past emotional bonds that often cause future anxieties. The discussion is inspired by philosopher Alan Watts' teachings on being present. Brandon elaborates on the significance of meditation, breath work, and relaxing the nervous system to focus and stay present. The episode also touches on how unresolved issues from the past can limit future possibilities and emphasizes the importance of examining and addressing past events to shift perceptions, free up energy, and make conscious choices. Both hosts share insights on the impact of past traumas on current behaviors, the role of emotions in shaping one's reality, and strategies to cultivate presence for peak performance and authentic connections.

00:00 Introduction to Permission to Evolve

00:09 The Concept of Being Present

00:28 Influence of Alan Watts

01:04 Exploring Past, Future, and Present

01:51 The Role of Ego and Identity

02:46 Challenges of Staying Present

03:50 Impact of Unresolved Past

05:00 Breaking Patterns and Shifting Perceptions

05:40 Understanding and Forgiving the Past

06:43 The Influence of Environment and Beliefs

07:13 Addressing Unprocessed Pain

11:16 Examples of Younger Mindsets

11:39 Financial and Relationship Struggles

19:35 The Role of Anxiety in Future Thinking

25:45 Controlling and Manipulating Situations

27:30 Supporting Each Other's Weaknesses

28:52 Understanding Weakness and Control

29:40 Healing Past Wounds

30:13 Avoidance as a Control Strategy

31:34 The Power of Presence

33:44 Achieving Peak Performance

39:18 Aligning Passion and Work

43:40 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

48:31 Practical Tips for Presence

52:50 Connecting and Growing with Brandon

Connect with Brandon:

https://brandonthielk.com/

Meditation Tips: https://youtu.be/hRXsalJIzZM

https://www.instagram.com/brandonthielk/

https://www.tiktok.com/@bthielk?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc

https://www.instagram.com/permissiontoevolvepodcast/

https://www.youtube.com/@brandonthielk

#podcast #personalgrowth #lifecoaching #mindsetiseverything

In this episode of Permission to Evolve, host Brandon Thielk, a performance and life coach, alongside co-host Holly Deschenes, dive into the challenges of being seen and how to overcome the fear associated with visibility. They discuss why many people hide as a survival strategy due to overwhelming emotions and societal pressures. The conversation explores personal branding, societal norms, trauma responses, and the importance of authenticity. Brandon and Holly delve into the harmful effects of hiding, such as settling for less in life, lack of deep relationships, and missed opportunities. They provide practical steps and examples for gradually coming out of hiding, accepting criticism, and aligning one's mindset with current abilities to live a more fulfilled and visible life. Listeners are encouraged to engage with the process, taking small, manageable steps and seeking supportive communities. The episode aims to empower individuals to own their strengths, overcome internal conflicts, and present themselves authentically to achieve personal growth and fulfillment.

00:00 Introduction to Permission to Evolve

00:15 The Challenge of Being Seen

02:15 Personal Branding and Authenticity

03:39 Understanding and Healing Shame

04:57 Navigating Visibility and Criticism

17:15 Symptoms of Hiding and Overcoming Them

26:02 The Illusion of Talent and the Importance of Hard Work

27:21 The Costs of Staying Hidden

28:33 Leadership and the Desire to Be Seen

29:36 Intimacy and Vulnerability in Relationships

31:00 Overcoming Shame and Building Authentic Connections

31:40 Navigating Social Anxiety and Networking

32:38 The Inner Conflict and the Path to Fulfillment

34:20 The Gradual Process of Coming Out of Hiding

36:46 Practical Steps to Increase Visibility

41:45 Personal Examples and the Journey to Authenticity

49:40 Final Thoughts and How to Connect

Connect with Brandon:

https://brandonthielk.com/

https://www.instagram.com/brandonthielk/

https://www.tiktok.com/@bthielk

https://www.instagram.com/permissiontoevolvepodcast/

In this episode of 'Permission to Evolve,' hosted by Brandon Thielk and co-host Holly Deschenes, the focus is on 'Permission to Forgive' and the negative impact of resentment on personal growth. Brandon and Holly discuss why forgiveness is crucial, both from a nervous system perspective and as a means to release the emotional weight that hinders progress. They explore various forms of resentment, including overextending oneself and feeling left behind due to immaturity or undeveloped skills. Different strategies for forgiveness and self-compassion are highlighted, along with addressing the personal and relational costs of holding onto resentment. The episode emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, responsibility, and evolving personal dynamics for healthier relationships and overall well-being. Listeners are encouraged to adjust their perspectives and gradually take steps towards forgiveness and personal accountability to unlock a more balanced and fulfilling life.

00:00 Introduction and Catching Up

00:45 Topic Introduction: Permission to Forgive

01:50 Understanding Resentment and Immaturity

03:10 Balancing Responsibilities and Dependencies

06:16 The Role of Self-Compassion and Forgiveness

13:14 Resentment in Family Dynamics

20:59 Energetic and Physical Costs of Resentment

25:47 Navigating Relationship Dynamics

27:33 Navigating Relationship Dynamics

28:11 Understanding Resentment

30:26 The Role of Forgiveness

30:56 True Forgiveness vs. Surface-Level Forgiveness

33:30 Detaching and Healing

37:08 Emotional Maturity and Self-Responsibility

41:13 Practical Tips for Letting Go

46:42 Final Thoughts and Moving Forward

50:23 Engage with Us and Stay Connected

Connect with Brandon:

https://brandonthielk.com/

https://www.instagram.com/brandonthielk/

https://www.instagram.com/permissiontoevolvepodcast/

In this special episode of "Permission to Evolve," hosts Brandon Thielk and Holly Deschenes broadcast from 11,000 feet up at Rocky Mountain National Park. The discussion centers around the importance of willingly embracing hard challenges rather than avoiding them. They explore the confidence gained from tackling difficulties, the mental and emotional growth that accompanies physical challenges, and the setbacks of opting for a too-comfortable life. The episode delves into personal anecdotes of hardship and perseverance, the value of emotional intelligence, and plans for an upcoming in-person event focused on deep emotional work and personal growth. They emphasize that life's greatest rewards often lie beyond our comfort zones and that facing fears can lead to significant transformations.

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene

00:24 Embracing Challenges: The Importance of Doing Hard Things

02:45 Personal Experiences and Lessons from Hiking

03:30 The Journey to Colorado: Overcoming Travel Hurdles

05:04 The Power of Persistence and Finishing What You Start

08:53 Emotional and Mental Challenges: Beyond the Physical

09:24 The Interconnectedness of Mind, Body, and Emotions

09:40 Facing and Understanding Emotions for Growth

11:58 The Role of Belief and Overcoming Limiting Thoughts

17:46 Generational Patterns and Breaking the Cycle

22:48 The Importance of Building Confidence and Resilience

23:49 Choosing Between Safety and Excitement

24:27 The Journey of Overcoming Challenges

24:41 Support and Faith in the Path

25:27 Building a Business and Embracing Uncertainty

27:45 Planning and Messaging for Business Growth

28:18 Facing Tough Questions and Personal Growth

28:45 Balancing Freedom and Commitment

31:37 Exploring Group Coaching Opportunities

34:39 The Power of Vulnerability in Group Settings

41:49 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans

onnect with Brandon:

https://brandonthielk.com/

https://brandonthielk.com/the-lightning-lab

https://www.instagram.com/brandonthielk/

https://www.instagram.com/permissiontoevolvepodcast/

https://www.tiktok.com/@bthielk

Rewiring Your Inner System: Unpacking Burnout, Alignment, and True Fulfillment

In this special 25th episode of 'Permission to Evolve,' host Brandon Thielk and co-host Holly Deschenes celebrate their milestone in Boulder, Colorado, while diving deep into listener questions in an 'Ask Me Anything' format. Brandon shares personal stories, discusses his transformation as a coach, and explores profound topics like emotional intelligence, burnout, anxiety, and the importance of alignment. He emphasizes the value of in-person connections, authentic relationships, and internal work for true success and fulfillment. Listeners are also invited to upcoming community events and given insights into Brandon's ongoing journey of self-discovery and his philosophy of rewiring one's inner system for a more meaningful life.

00:00 Introduction and Milestone Celebration

00:42 Brandon's Orange Blazer Story

01:45 Upcoming Community Events

02:59 Ask Me Anything: Personal Growth and Coaching

05:17 Journey to Nashville

07:25 Current Reads and Shows

09:41 Saying No Without Guilt

13:42 Electrician for the Soul: Philosophy Explained

16:36 Shifting from Stress to Alignment

22:49 Creating from Alignment, Not Anxiety

26:22 Addressing Burnout in High Performers

28:27 The Cost of Winning at All Costs

29:19 Facing the Consequences of Our Actions

31:24 Building a New Relationship with Pressure

34:07 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence

36:01 Embodying and Applying New Knowledge

42:19 Recognizing the Need for Deeper Work

52:52 Connecting Authentically with Others

53:35 Conclusion and How to Reach Out

Connect with Brandon:

https://brandonthielk.com/

https://www.instagram.com/brandonthielk/

https://www.instagram.com/permissiontoevolvepodcast/

Understanding and Embracing Shadow Work for Personal Growth

In this episode of Permission to Evolve, host and performance coach Brandon Thielk, along with co-host Holly Deschenes, delve into the intricate subject of shadow work. They discuss how this concept, rooted in Carl Jung’s teachings, involves confronting and integrating disowned aspects of the self to unlock potential and growth. The conversation demystifies shadow work by exploring its importance, common emotional triggers, and how addressing these can lead to personal transformation and increased emotional intelligence. The episode also provides practical insights into recognizing the shadow's influence in everyday life and the benefits of doing the work for overall well-being and fulfillment.

00:00 Introduction to Shadow Work

00:21 Understanding the Subconscious

02:08 The Importance of Emotional Maturity

04:14 Resolving the Past

06:51 The Role of Pain in Personal Growth

15:34 Identifying and Addressing Negative Emotions

20:14 The Impact of Judgment and Perception

25:43 Embracing Discomfort for Growth

26:39 Recognizing Patterns and Triggers

27:28 The Cost of Emotional Energy

28:51 Chasing Success and Its Pitfalls

30:39 Avoiding Stillness and Emotional Discomfort

36:49 The Power of Integration

42:04 Unlocking Personal Power

47:22 Final Thoughts and Next Steps

https://brandonthielk.com/

https://brandonthielk.com/the-lightning-lab

https://www.instagram.com/brandonthielk/

https://www.instagram.com/permissiontoevolvepodcast/