Welcome to a truly extraordinary episode where I sit down with Max, a man whose life story defies conventional paths and radiates an infectious curiosity. From the moment we started, I was captivated by his candidness, beginning with the fascinating reason behind changing his birth name to "Max" upon arriving in America (0:07) – a decision rooted in practicality and a touch of old Hollywood cool.

Max's journey began in a small German town, but his heart beat to an American rhythm, fueled by a deep love for blues, bluegrass, and the gritty allure of 40s noir literature (3:06). His early fascination wasn't just a hobby; it was a compass, guiding him to major in American literature and, ultimately, to New York City in 1989 as a journalist (16:04). His account of those initial months, living next to Katherine Hepburn and defying expectations to stay in the US, felt like something out of a movie. I loved hearing about his unique journalistic assignments, including riding Route 66 four times, which led to a bestselling book and an award-winning CD-ROM (20:49)!

One of my biggest takeaways was Max's belief that America liberates the spirit, fostering an environment where "audacity is encouraged" (43:10) and failure is seen as a stepping stone. This contrasts sharply with the stifling mindset he observed in Europe, a point I deeply resonated with as someone who believes in "fail culture" not just as a concept but as a lived experience. We also delved into his surprising cultural shocks, particularly around social interactions (31:36), and his deep appreciation for American diner culture (36:40), which he fondly calls "the democratic restaurant of the new world."

But Max's story doesn't stop there. Disillusioned with journalism after a major scandal (58:00), he completely reinvented himself, first as a children's apparel entrepreneur, then as a winemaker. A personal decision to stop drinking alcohol led to his most recent, incredibly innovative project: Glass Rose, a line of sparkling non-alcoholic beverages made from unfermented grapes (1:30:15). It’s a testament to his boundless creativity and willingness to embrace new challenges, even at 66 years old. His definition of "home" as an "emotion" (1:42:25) beautifully encapsulates his entire journey.

Join me for an inspiring conversation that explores chasing dreams, embracing change, and finding home not in a place, but within yourself.

In this episode, I had the privilege of speaking with Wells Jones, a man whose life story is nothing short of an epic adventure. Wells, along with his partner Miles Spencer, embarked on an audacious journey in 2006, retracing T.E. Lawrence's path through the Middle East. What truly captivated me wasn't just the destination, but the sheer, mind-boggling preparation that went into it.

Imagine spending eight months preparing for a trip through Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Syria – not as soldiers, but as civilians, in the volatile post-9/11 era. Wells shares how they had to draft wills, secure international kidnap and ransom insurance, and even undergo specialized conflict and risk assessment training (04:05), led by a former SAS major who once guarded Princes Harry and William. It's truly a testament to their commitment!

Their adventure was a fascinating blend of historical exploration and cutting-edge (for 2006!) technology. I was absolutely amazed to hear about their Motorola Razr phones, a satellite phone that doubled as a weapon (07:39), and their Panasonic Toughbook – which I promptly Googled – powered by a roll-out solar panel. And get this: they even had a Broadband Global Access Network (BGAN) terminal for *satellite internet in the desert* (13:34)! This wasn't just a trip; it was a self-contained, high-tech expedition into the unknown.

Beyond the gear, Wells shares deeply personal encounters: the chaotic border crossings at gunpoint (20:57), the surprising welcome from Saudi citizens, including Prince Khalid bin Faisal himself, who apologized for 9/11 (26:44). But the most profoundly moving moment for me was hearing about their driver, Mahmoud, a Palestinian whose visceral hatred for Israel was palpable during a tense checkpoint encounter (36:35), and the raw, tearful confession of a Saudi friend whose own village produced 9/11 terrorists (1:11:03). These stories aren't just history; they're heart-wrenching human experiences.

Wells and Miles later penned the incredible book, *A Line in the Sand*, which, as I discovered, masterfully blends historical accuracy with captivating fiction, including a time-travel device to revisit pivotal moments. My key takeaway from Wells's wisdom is his emphasis on "graciousness" as a universal language (49:56) and his message to the next generation: trust yourself, fully engage with where you are, cultivate curiosity, and *take action*.

This conversation is a powerful reminder that understanding comes from truly listening and immersing yourself in different cultures, not just from headlines. Dive in and prepare to be inspired!

Hello, and welcome back to the podcast! I recently had the incredible pleasure of sitting down with Adam and Gabby Gonzalez, a dynamic couple who made the bold move from Southern and Northern California to Valencia, Spain, with their two daughters. Their story is a masterclass in intentional living and a powerful reminder that sometimes, you’re not running from anything, but towards a life you’ve always dreamt of.

From the very beginning, I was captivated by their "why." As Gabby shared her experiences as a Crime Scene Investigator for 15 intense years, and Adam spoke of his remote work, it became clear that the pandemic acted as a pivotal moment for them. Like many of us, COVID-19 forced a re-evaluation of priorities, highlighting the grind of daily life versus precious family time. I deeply resonated with their realisation that there’s indeed "life after work," a stark contrast to the relentless pace many of us experience (04:41).

Their journey to Spain was incredibly thoughtful. We delved into their decision-making process, from initially considering places like Texas or Florida, to exploring Portugal, and finally choosing Valencia over bustling Madrid or party-centric Barcelona. What struck me was their unwavering commitment to integrating, especially wanting their daughters to be fully bilingual. This dedication shone through even when tackling the infamous "Spainful" bureaucracy (07:52), a challenge they smartly navigated with professional help, something I always advocate for when making such a monumental life change.

One of my biggest takeaways from our conversation was the profound cultural shifts they experienced. Adam's initial struggle with "sobremesa" the Spanish tradition of long, leisurely post-meal conversations against his American programming for efficiency was hilarious and incredibly relatable. And Gabby’s love for the daily cafe culture versus the "to-go" lifestyle of the US truly highlighted Europe's slower, more present pace. But perhaps the most eye-opening part was our discussion on the transformative walking culture (27:03). Hearing Adam boast about walking 24,000 steps in a day, compared to his 600 back home, underscored the drastic difference in daily movement and overall well-being. It sparked a personal reflection on the often-sedentary habits we fall into, and how movement can drastically improve our quality of life.

We also touched on the stark difference in perceived safety, particularly concerning their daughters' independence. And of course, being the food enthusiast I am, our chat about Valencia’s incredible fresh markets and the unexpected craving for spice was a highlight!

Ultimately, Adam and Gabby's story, particularly the feeling of truly "feeling human" that Spain offers (1:14:30), resonated deeply with me. It reinforced my own belief that "home is a feeling, not a place," and that stepping outside your "village"—no matter how big or small is a gift that broadens horizons and connects you with your true self.

Tune in to hear how they navigated this exciting new chapter, from their first "holy crap" moment to their vision for the future. Their candidness, humor, and refreshing perspective will inspire anyone dreaming of a different path.

Buckle up, because this episode with Greg was a wild ride, and I mean that literally! We kicked things off talking about my latest thrill on the Autobahn, hitting speeds most people only dream of (0:37). But beyond the adrenaline, this led us down a fascinating road trip through the impact of technology on society, exploring how everything feels so slow once you step off that fast lane (2:07).

I was so excited to dive deep into the future of humanity, especially with Greg's insights on AI and automation. We pondered how AI is already reshaping our job market and the critical question of what kind of economy exists when machines can fulfill most human needs (25:20). It’s not just about jobs; we also got into the alarming ways AI is being used for narrative shaping and manipulation on social media (31:10). This made me reflect on my own experiences growing up in communist Romania, where the state meticulously controlled information (12:46), drawing eerie parallels to today's digital landscape.

But it wasn't all dystopian. We explored the incredible potential of AI in medicine, particularly its diagnostic capabilities and pattern recognition that could revolutionize healthcare, supporting doctors and saving lives (38:28). This led us to a deeply personal discussion on health and biohacking. I shared my journey with extended fasting and how the body’s innate regenerative processes like autophagy are truly mind-blowing (52:33). We even touched on cutting-edge DNA manipulation and the mRNA vaccine (45:50) – pushing the boundaries of what it means to be human.

What truly stuck with me from this conversation was the stark contrast in lifestyles we observed globally. We compared the "live to work" mentality of some cultures with the "work to live" philosophy in places like Southern Europe, where community and family time are paramount (1:33:29). This brought us to questions of societal purpose, the ethics of war in an age of advanced weaponry (1:41:56), and even the philosophical implications of immortality and how we measure time (1:21:01).

This episode is a journey through speed, technology, human nature, and the quest for meaning. My key takeaway? We're at a pivotal moment where understanding our past and questioning our "progress" is more crucial than ever. This conversation, while diverging from our usual Cosmos University focus, set the perfect stage for our next deep dive into ancient wisdom. I promise, you won't want to miss it!

In this episode, I had the immense pleasure of sitting down with Arjun Chhabra, whose journey I've come to call 'From Heartbreak in India to Healing in Spain.' I first connected with Arjun after seeing one of his Reddit posts, drawn in by the raw honesty of his story, and quickly realized he was a perfect fit for Whereabouts Tales, embodying the very spirit of transformation.

Arjun shares the profoundly personal story of his mother's battle with breast cancer and her tragic passing in 2013 [1:21, 2:40]. This devastating loss plunged him into depression, leading to significant weight gain and a complete loss of direction. I truly felt his pain as he recounted those difficult months of helplessness, searching for answers and finding none.

He then opens up about his upbringing in bustling Mumbai, challenging the stereotypes of India we often see. We delve into his unique experience with an arranged marriage [18:38, 20:26], a process that for him, involved surprising honesty and self-discovery.

The conversation takes a fascinating turn as Arjun recounts his and his wife’s brave decision to sell everything and move to Spain in late 2019 [32:16], only to be met by the global pandemic [33:32]. This unforeseen challenge forced a major pivot from their organic clothing brand to a deep dive into wellness, reinvesting everything into studying functional medicine and herbalism. I was captivated by their resilience and adaptability.

Arjun is now a Mind Expansion Coach, and his insights into the mind-body connection are truly transformative. He explains how our state of mind dictates our well-being [1:09:31], the importance of living in the present moment, and how trauma—even daily stress—can manifest physically. I found his distinction between easy and hard choices, and the long-term impact on our lives, particularly powerful.

My key takeaway from our chat is Arjun's profound belief that healing comes from within, through acceptance and an alignment with our true purpose. It's about letting go of emotional baggage and connecting with our higher selves [1:18:05]. He’s dedicated to making wellness accessible through an upcoming online resource library, a book, and even a wellness center in Spain [1:18:41, 1:21:25, 1:25:11]. This conversation is a testament to resilience, purpose, and the incredible power of self-healing. Tune in for a truly inspiring and thought-provoking listen!

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:17 Arjun's Journey: From India to Spain

04:06 The Impact of Personal Loss

07:18 Growing Up in India: Cultural Insights

10:29 Education and Class Systems in India

13:29 The Journey to Self-Discovery

16:23 The Illusion of Happiness

18:54 Family Support and Personal Growth

19:02 Arranged Marriages: A Cultural Perspective

24:44 The Journey of Arranged Marriage

27:59 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship

31:08 Exploring Health and Wellness

33:26 Relocating to Spain: Challenges and Adaptations

41:44 Cultural Shifts and Culinary Experiences

48:37 Mind Expansion and Self-Healing

01:03:43 Understanding Individual Health Solutions

01:08:43 The Role of Inflammation in Healing

01:11:14 Mindset and Trauma's Impact on Health

01:15:24 Spirituality and Healing Perspectives

01:20:03 Creating Accessible Wellness Resources

01:22:42 The Journey of Writing a Wellness Book

01:26:20 Future Plans for a Wellness Center

01:28:23 The Importance of Purpose Over Profit

01:30:16 Rapid Fire Insights and Reflections

01:37:37 OUTRO

In this episode, I had the immense pleasure of diving deep into the extraordinary journey of Wells Jones, a man who, as I playfully suggested, seems to have lived several lives already. From the moment he started sharing his story, I was captivated, and I know you will be too. Imagine jumping out of a plane over the South Pole, surviving the extreme conditions of Antarctica, and then walking into an acting school in New York City – that’s just a glimpse into Wells’s remarkable path.

Wells's incredible adaptability and courage were forged early. Born on an army base and growing up in a bustling household of six kids after losing his father at a young age, he shared a profound insight from his mother: "I think you can do this." This simple belief became a guiding principle, acting as a recurring "tap on the shoulder" throughout his life, akin to the famous Churchill quote he shares (0:08, 0:58:18). This philosophy of embracing opportunities, even when unprepared, truly resonated with me.

His decision to join the Navy was a quest for adventure, leading him to the breathtaking and brutal landscape of Antarctica as part of the Antarctic Parachute Rescue Team (0:20:59, 0:26:38). Wells vividly describes precision skydiving, crevasse rescues, and facing unimaginable conditions—like jumping from a C-130 into -59 degree Fahrenheit winds, a moment where he literally felt his hand freeze and thaw in 60 seconds (0:34:57). The raw struggle against nature and the reliance on primitive gear (0:37:04) offered powerful lessons in focus and responsibility.

From the sub-zero training grounds, Wells pivoted to the stage, embarking on a fascinating acting career (0:43:13). He shares how a tough instructor taught him to "stop thinking too much and just be yourself" (0:45:53)—a lesson in authenticity that profoundly impacted his approach to life and performance. This led him into directing high-profile productions at places like Lincoln Center and the Kennedy Center (0:54:30, 0:57:24), orchestrating grand events with legendary figures.

But the adventures didn't stop there. Wells recounts an audacious plan to trek through the Middle East, tracing T.E. Lawrence's path, a journey that involved 8 months of intense preparation, kidnap & ransom insurance, and an unwavering resolve even after hearing news of a hotel bombing (1:26:00, 1:27:48).

Today, Wells is at the forefront of a groundbreaking venture called Reflector (SolTech), a company that uses AI to connect us with loved ones who have passed on. Imagine having an AI-powered conversation with a departed family member, hearing their voice, and revisiting their stories and nuanced responses (0:14:13). This technology is truly pushing the boundaries of legacy and remembrance, making the abstract idea of an "online obituary" a deeply personal and interactive experience.

My biggest takeaway from speaking with Wells is the profound power of embracing "flow" (1:01:41)—not passively, but by fully engaging with each opportunity, learning from every challenge, and trusting that the right path will unfold. This episode is a testament to human resilience, curiosity, and the boundless possibilities that emerge when you say "yes" to life's taps on the shoulder. You won't want to miss a single moment of Wells's incredible story.

Join me on a truly special episode of Wereabout Tales as he chats with Anthony and Sam, an inspiring American couple who made the unconventional leap to move to Romania. Anthony, who was adopted from Romania as an infant, and his wife Sam, to explore their incredible journey.

From the outset, their story challenges perceptions. They delve into the stark cultural differences between the US and Romania, discussing the decline of community in America post-9/11 and the profound sense of belonging they discovered in their new home (0:57). Anthony shares the deeply personal and emotional tale of tracing his biological roots, a journey initiated by Sam's curiosity, and the surreal experience of reuniting with his birth family through the 'Never Forgotten Romanian Children' network (16:43). The conversation poignantly addresses the 'trolley problem' of his adoption, revealing the heartbreaking circumstances of extreme poverty his Roma family faced in post-communist Romania (35:53), offering a rare and empathetic perspective on a complex issue.

Their decision to leave the overwhelming grind of New York life for Romania wasn't instantaneous but solidified after Sam's unexpected panic attack post-holiday (47:58). They candidly discuss the challenges—from navigating Romanian bureaucracy, including Anthony's complex citizenship process (50:54), to the surprisingly difficult task of apartment hunting with two cats (1:05:02). Yet, they’ve found unexpected joys, like discovering a passion for making music (1:07:30) and embracing local delicacies like *slanina* and *pufuleti* (1:31:04).

Anthony and Sam's journey is a powerful testament to open-mindedness and embracing the unknown. They encourage listeners, especially prospective expats, to 'leave your preconceived notions about Romania at the door' (1:23:10) and discover its rich, diverse regions and warm hospitality. Living in Sibiu, they continue to immerse themselves in Romanian life, with exciting plans including recording their second album and potentially buying a home. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about life abroad, cultural exchange, or the profound power of self-discovery.

Embark on a captivating intellectual journey with author Brian Cranley as he unveils his groundbreaking book, "The Call of Wonder." In this profound episode, Brian shares the fascinating story behind his work, which brilliantly bridges the perceived chasm between science and faith.

Brian, with a unique background spanning biomedical engineering and five years in seminary studying philosophy and theology, reveals how these seemingly disparate worlds spectacularly collided. His "aha moment" (01:03), sparked by a Fermilab video on the Big Bang (05:26), revealed an astonishing parallel between modern physics' description of the early universe (unified mass, energy, and forces) and ancient philosophical concepts like divine simplicity – describing God as perfectly indivisible and unified.

"The Call of Wonder" invites listeners to explore this "God of reason" (16:10), a centuries-old conversation from Plato to Aquinas, providing philosophical arguments for God's existence that modern education often overlooks. Brian explains how classical wisdom helps us understand immaterial concepts like truth, beauty, and goodness, laying a foundation for deeper meaning.

Dive into the "Three Miracles of Science" – the universe, life, and the human mind (21:16). Brian poses critical questions: How did matter and energy emerge from nothing? How did living cells arise from non-living matter? And what truly explains the vast chasm of human consciousness compared to other animals? He suggests that these aren't just scientific puzzles, but profound instances where the supernatural touches the natural world.

Discover why "wonder" is not just an emotion but a "call" (12:15) – an innate human drive to seek understanding that unifies philosophy, theology, and science. Brian discusses how nurturing this sense of wonder can serve as a spiritual practice (43:01), offering a powerful antidote to modern cynicism and burnout, providing perspective and mental peace in our daily lives (40:57). He also shares valuable insights on how parents can foster this wonder in their children (47:35), encouraging a balanced view of science and faith.

Whether you're a staunch scientist, a person of faith, or simply seeking deeper answers, this conversation promises to challenge your perspectives and reignite your own call to wonder. Brian wrote this book for those who feel science has made faith obsolete, offering a compelling narrative that celebrates compatibility rather than conflict (38:06).

In this conversation, Joe shares his migration journey from the UK to a small village in Switzerland, discussing the challenges and triumphs of adapting to a new life. He reflects on the impact of COVID-19 on his family, the cultural integration process, and the language barriers he faces. Joe also highlights the beauty of the Swiss countryside and the importance of balancing work and family life as an expat. He expresses nostalgia for British pub culture and the high cost of childcare in Switzerland, ultimately finding a sense of home in his new environment. In this engaging conversation, Paul and Joe explore the cultural nuances of living in Switzerland, touching on language barriers, regional differences, and the unexpected divisions within the country. They share personal experiences about family life, the cost of living, and the challenges of adapting to Swiss customs, including the peculiarities of Sunday closures. The discussion also delves into the joys of exploring hidden gems in Switzerland and the nostalgia of home, reflecting on the complexities of living abroad and the importance of understanding oneself in the process.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Cultural Shock

01:55 Migration Journey: From the UK to Switzerland

04:44 Life in a Rural Swiss Village

08:07 Navigating the Challenges of Relocation

10:52 Language Barriers and Integration

13:48 Cultural Differences and Community Dynamics

16:54 Childcare and Family Life in Switzerland

20:05 Reflections on Swiss Life and Nostalgia

22:49 The Cost of Living and Economic Migration

25:53 Food Culture and Culinary Adaptation

29:03 Conclusion: Balancing Life as an Expat

34:33 Culinary Experiences in Germany and Switzerland

37:04 Exploring Nature Walks in Switzerland

41:02 Feeling at Home in Switzerland

44:33 Cultural Differences and Missing Home

46:46 Navigating the Legal Landscape in Switzerland

48:53 House Buying Experience in Switzerland

51:10 Unexpected Aspects of Swiss Culture

54:46 Language Barriers and Regional Differences

58:31 Family Adventures in Amusement Parks

01:01:06 Hidden Gems in Switzerland

01:04:36 Skiing and Outdoor Adventures

01:08:17 Cost of Living in Switzerland vs Germany

01:10:37 Cultural Differences in Child Safety

01:16:02 Rapid Fire Questions and Fun Comparisons

01:28:42 Reflections on Home and Nostalgia

01:34:45 OUTRO

Dive into this inspiring conversation with Richie Billing, who left behind a legal career to embrace his passion for fantasy writing. Discover the bold decisions, struggles, and creative breakthroughs behind his journey from courtrooms to crafting gritty, character-driven worlds. Richie and Paul explore how personal backgrounds shape storytelling, the power of hope, and why representation and authenticity matter in modern fantasy. If you love tales of risk, resilience, and the magic of everyday people, this episode is for you

You can find Richie Billing’s latest writing, stories, and podcasts on his Patreon at https://www.patreon.com/cw/RichieBilling. He’s also got a website: richiebilling.com, where you’ll discover his guides, resources for writers, and everything about his fantasy work—plus, he’s easy to spot with a quick Google search too. Whether you want to read his novels, listen to interviews, or join his creative community, those are the best places to connect and keep up with Richie’s journey.

00:00 Highlights & Intro

00:31 Influences

02:34 The Role of Fantasy in Life

05:49 Character Development and Realism

08:48 The Impact of Family Background

11:46 Writing Style and Genre Preferences

14:46 The Magic of Storytelling

18:09 Building a Fantasy World

21:03 Exploring Good vs Evil

23:00 Politics and Writing

27:05 Character Development in Together We Rise

33:09 The Role of Music in Storytelling

38:06 Personal Connections in Writing

41:02 The Journey of Self-Publishing

45:57 Podcasting and Creative Community

56:11 The Joy of Mentoring Writers

01:00:19 Wearing Many Hats: The Multifaceted Life of a Writer

01:01:45 Nature as Inspiration for Writing

01:02:58 The Writing Process: Daily Routines and Midnight Sessions

01:04:13 Music and Storytelling: The Soundtrack of Creativity

01:05:44 The Power of Fantasy in Storytelling

01:07:21 Rapid Fire Round: Insights and Favorites

01:18:49 Life-Changing Books and Future Aspirations

01:23:07 OUTRO