Resilience Unravelled

In this episode of Resilience Unravelled, we meet Craig Polsfuss, a psychologist with a unique name and a compelling story.

Craig shares his journey growing up in Minnesota, his education in psychology, sociology, and philosophy, and highlights a significant moment of awakening at age 28 that transformed his understanding of life. He discusses the concept of shifting from an 'outside in' to 'inside out' psychological paradigm and the importance of innate resilience.

Craig also introduces his book series 'Reality Shattering Insights' and explains the impact of profound insights, referencing the teachings of Sidney Banks. This episode delves into the balance between inner awareness and practical life application, offering listeners profound reflections and techniques for self-realization and personal growth.

00:00 Introduction and Welcome

00:31 Craig's Background and Early Life

01:42 Journey into Psychology and Awakening

03:56 The Inside-Out Paradigm

07:39 Balancing Esoteric and Practical Realities

09:43 The Role of the Observer

15:09 Sidney Banks and Reality Shattering Insights

18:41 Book Details and Conclusion

You can contact us at [email protected]

Resources can be found online or link to our website https://resilienceunravelled.com

#resilience, #burnout, #intuition

In this episode of Resilience Unravelled, Dr Russell Thackeray interviews Michael Erath, a former executive in the hardwood veneer manufacturing industry turned business coach.

Michael shares his background in the family business, the challenges of transitioning from domestic to export markets, and the devastating discovery of embezzlement and fraud by his business partner during the 2008 financial crisis.

Despite these setbacks, Michael successfully navigated the company through insolvency and later pivoted to coaching executives.

He emphasises the importance of clear organisational structure and accountability, sharing insights from his book, 'Five Obsessions of Elite Organizations,' which offers practical tools for building resilient businesses.

00:00 Introduction

00:26 Michael's Business Background

02:51 Challenges and Betrayal

04:52 Navigating Financial Crisis

07:04 Rebuilding and New Ventures

08:34 Lessons Learned and Coaching

22:38 Building a Performance-Based Culture

25:57 The Five Obsessions Book

28:31 Conclusion and Contact Information

You can contact us at [email protected]

Resources can be found online or link to our website https://resilienceunravelled.com

#resilience, #burnout, #intuition

In this episode of 'Resilience Unravelled,' host Dr. Russell Thackeray welcomes Kevin McCarthy, a former entrepreneur turned consultant, who shares his remarkable life story.

From becoming a paper millionaire during the late 90's dot-com bubble to losing everything and eventually spending 33 months in a federal prison for unknowingly committing a crime under a deceptive boss, Kevin discusses the concept of 'blind spots.'

These blind spots, which include unconscious biases, thinking errors, and limiting beliefs, cloud our judgments and can lead to destructive behaviours. Kevin highlights how his time in prison led him to self-reflect, study cognitive psychology, and ultimately write his book 'Blind Spots: Why Good People Make Bad Choices.'

He explains his approach to addressing blind spots through self-awareness and feedback, along with details about his blind spot assessment tool based on the DISC framework.

Kevin also emphasizes the importance of choice in finding purpose and resiliency.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:19 Kevin's Entrepreneurial Journey

01:00 The Downfall and Prison Experience

05:44 Understanding Blind Spots

06:42 Unconscious Bias and Thinking Errors

11:39 Leadership and Self-Reflection

20:08 Navigating Prison Life

23:45 Finding Purpose and Resilience

24:02 Conclusion and Contact Information

You can contact us at [email protected]

Resources can be found online or link to our website https://resilienceunravelled.com

In this episode of Resilience Unraveled, Dr Russell Thackeray chats to Dr. Julian Gershon Jr., a specialist in family medicine, sports medicine, and anti-aging and regenerative medicine, who shares insights from his 45-year career.

He discusses his work with stem cell therapy, hormone balancing, and longevity science.

The conversation highlights the significance of DNA methylation, telomere length, and how lifestyle choices impact aging. Dr. Gershon covers the benefits of GLP-1, Metformin, and the revolutionary potential of stem cell research.

He also introduces his book, 'Beyond the Fountain of Youth,' and emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and proactive health management.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:38 Dr. Julian Gershon's Background and Expertise

01:26 Understanding Longevity and Anti-Aging Medicine

03:43 The Role of Telomeres in Aging

06:10 The Importance of Diet and Lifestyle

12:08 Hormone Balancing and Its Benefits

21:36 Stem Cell Research and Its Potential

23:02 About the Book: Beyond the Fountain of Youth

24:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

You can contact us at [email protected]

Resources can be found online or link to our website https://resilienceunravelled.com

In this episode of Resilience Unravelled, the Dr Russell Thackeray interviews Monika Guzak, an intercultural business trainer and coach based in Poland.

Monika shares her insights on resilience, diversity, and the importance of joy in business. She discusses how different cultures perceive and express emotions, and the impact of historical and geographical contexts on natural resilience.

Monika also talks about her use of tools like LEGO Serious Play and art therapy to help organisations and individuals uncover deeper insights and cultivate a joyful, resilient mindset. The conversation touches on the need to embrace diverse cultural perspectives in academia and practice, moving beyond traditional Western paradigms.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:03 Monika's Background and Work

01:37 Diversity and Resilience in Business

03:14 Cultural Perspectives on Resilience

08:32 The Importance of Joy in Organisations

12:44 Exploring Emotions and Authenticity

17:09 Global Perspectives and Future Outlook

21:14 Conclusion and Contact Information

You can contact us at [email protected]

Resources can be found online or link to our website https://resilienceunravelled.com

In this episode, Peggy shares her personal experience as a self-proclaimed 'busyness addict,' discussing how the overwhelming demands of her career left her with too much to do and too little time.

She opens up about her path to recovery and the steps she has taken to regain control over her life.

You can contact us at [email protected]

Resources can be found online or link to our website https://resilienceunravelled.com

#resilience, #burnout, #intuition

In this episode of Resilience Unravelled, Dr. Russell Thackeray is joined by Steve Larsen, a guest with an extraordinary life story.

Steve shares his journey from an undiagnosed ADHD childhood, where he struggled academically, to becoming a successful entrepreneur who co-founded nine different startups, including one that contributed to the birth of modern e-commerce.

He also discusses his passion for automobiles, especially supercars and motorbikes, and his collection that includes a 1969 Lotus Elan and a McLaren. Additionally, Steve opens up about his health battles, having endured three open-heart surgeries, and the resilience he built through these experiences. Furthermore, he narrates a touching story of resilience about his daughter, whom he met for the first time when she was 39, and her determined quest to find him. Wrapping up, Steve talks about his new book, 'My Heart has Been In It From the Start,' which chronicles his multifaceted life.

00:00 Introduction and Greetings

00:59 Steve Larsen's Background

01:45 Early Life and ADHD Challenges

03:41 High School Transformation

04:44 Career Beginnings and Entrepreneurship

06:33 Resilience and Family Stories

10:41 Heart Surgeries and Health Challenges

15:53 Bear Wrestling Experience

18:39 Bear Encounter Strategies

19:07 E-commerce and Algorithmic Innovations

21:38 Passion for Cars

25:38 Writing a Memoir

31:12 ADHD as a Superpower

31:54 Conclusion and Contact Information

You can contact us at [email protected]

Resources can be found online or link to our website https://resilienceunravelled.com

In this episode of Resilience Unravelled, Dr Russell Thackeray interviews Rene Sylvain Bedard, an IT veteran with over 30 years of experience primarily in IT architecture.

Currently based in Montreal, Rene discusses the critical connection between cybersecurity and business resilience. He shares his journey from founding Indominus to focusing on cybersecurity solutions for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs). Rene elaborates on the various types of cybercriminals, the importance of employee awareness in preventing cyber attacks, and the consequences of ransomware. He outlines his 'Secure Method' for building cybersecurity resilience, which includes steps like surveying IT landscape, educating staff, and continuously reviewing and evolving security measures. Rene emphasizes the significant risks businesses face and underscores that leadership and a proactive approach are key to safeguarding any organization. He also highlights his book "Secure by Design," aimed to guide business leaders in protecting their companies from cyber threats.

00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic

00:32 Meet the Expert: Rene Sylvain Bedard

01:09 Rene's Background in IT and Cybersecurity

04:29 Understanding Cyber Attacks and Online Scams

07:23 The Mechanics of Cyber Attacks

11:46 The Importance of Cybersecurity Awareness

14:19 Real-World Examples and Prevention Tips

19:13 The Secure Method for SMB Owners

19:37 Understanding Your IT and Data Landscape

19:50 Building and Testing Cyber Defenses

20:51 The Importance of Unified Cybersecurity

22:24 Managed Service Providers vs. Managed Security Service Providers

24:39 The Role of Pen Testing and Configuration Audits

26:07 Balancing Cybersecurity Costs and Risks

27:55 Real-World Cybersecurity Incidents and Lessons

28:56 The Human Element in Cybersecurity

29:56 Writing the Book: Secure by Design

37:05 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

You can contact us at [email protected]

Resources can be found online or link to our website https://resilienceunravelled.com

#resilience, #burnout, #intuition

The Journey of Resilience and Reinvention with Athena Brownson

In this episode of Resilience Unraveled, Russell meets Athena Brownson, a former professional skier and current realtor, shares her journey of overcoming personal and physical challenges.

Raised in a mountain community in Colorado, Athena grew up immersed in the world of skiing, ultimately becoming a professional freestyle skier. After retiring due to severe injuries, she transitioned into real estate, only to face another challenge with a Lyme disease diagnosis.

Athena discusses how tools and rituals from her athletic background help her build resilience and reinvent herself despite chronic illness. She emphasises the importance of creating habits, finding a strong support system, and continuously working on personal growth in the face of adversity.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:21 Athena's Greek Heritage and Name

01:24 Early Life and Skiing Background

03:12 Transition to Professional Freestyle Skiing

07:04 Challenges and Injuries in Skiing

11:35 Reinventing Life After Skiing

12:10 Battling Lyme Disease

19:32 Building Resilience Through Adversity

26:57 Conclusion and Contact Information

You can find out more at resilienceunravelled.com or ask questions at [email protected]

In this episode of Resilience Unravelled, Russell interviews Scott Marshall, president of a small nonprofit that runs the Semester at Sea study abroad program. Located in Fort Collins, Colorado. Scott shares insights into the program, which combines international travel with academic studies aboard a ship. Participants spend 105 days visiting 8-10 countries, engaging in experiential learning and community building.

The conversation covers logistics, student life, conflict management, and the unique benefits of the program. Scott also discusses his podcast 'As Unexpected,' which highlights the stories of alumni who have made significant achievements.

This episode provides a comprehensive overview of how travel and education come together to foster resilience, curiosity, and compassion in young adults.

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

00:18 Scott Marshall's Background and Location

01:17 Semester at Sea Program Overview

02:26 Logistics and Academic Structure

04:33 Student Experience and Course Offerings

05:27 Historical Context and Community Building

10:26 Daily Life on the Ship

12:32 In-Country Experiences and Challenges

13:49 Conflict Management and Community Dynamics

16:20 Gap Year and Lifelong Learners

19:27 Podcast and Alumni Stories

25:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

You can contact us at [email protected]

Resources can be found online or link to our website https://resilienceunravelled.com

#resilience, #burnout, #intuition