Episode 241: If I Could Do Things Differently...

I just returned from an unforgettable month in Queenstown, New Zealand, which was top of my bucket list as a lifelong Tolkien fan, and my wife and I even did a vow renewal at Hobbiton. Beyond the scenery, the trip highlighted some powerful contrasts with life and business in the US, especially around community, culture, and personal well-being. After years of building a "dream career"—hosting 22 international retreats, running multiple ventures, and chasing “success”—I’ve learned some hard lessons about burnout, intentionality, and redefining what matters. 3 Key Takeaways: Intentionality over Hustle: Success fueled by constant accomplishment and productivity isn’t sustainable or healthy. Prioritize what brings real meaning, not just external validation. Nervous System Matters: The environment and pace of life in New Zealand helped me realize what a regulated, safe nervous system actually feels like. Find spaces where you can unmask and genuinely recharge. Redefine Success: Stepping back can be the bravest move. Protect your capacity and focus on what truly aligns with your values—even if that means fewer events, more rest, and more saying no. It's a myth that we have to grind ourselves down to be worthy. Life is short. *I mentioned in this episode that during this trip, I got devastating news that one of my best friends has stage 4 brain cancer. I started a GoFundMe to help support him and his wife. If you would like to know how to contribute, you can use this link: gofundme.com/f/hes-the-guy-who-never-asks-for-help-im-asking-for-him ––––––––––––––––––––– 🎙️Listen to more episodes of the Neurodivergent Entrepreneur Podcast: https://ndpod.org 🎙️Spotify: https://ndpod.org/Spotify 🎙️Apple: https://ndpod.org/Apple-Podcast 🎙️ YouTube: https://ndpod.org/YouTube 🧠 Neurodivergent Entrepreneur Freebie Vault: https://ndpod.org/Freebie-Vault ✈️ Learn about Retreats: https://www.allthingspractice.com/private-practice-retreats 🗨️ Join The NeuroPreneur Circle Community: https://www.allthingspractice.com/neuropreneur-community 🗨️ Join the free Empowered Escape FB Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/empoweredescape ––––––––––––––––––––– Thanks to Our Sponsors: The Receptionist for iPad! ✨ NeuroPreneur Circle NeuroPreneur Circle is an online community built by and for neurodivergent entrepreneurs who want a supportive space to build a business, a space where they can show up as themselves and in whatever way feels most comfortable. NeuroPreneur Circle exists because community built on masking isn't really community. And business advice built for neurotypical brains isn't actually useful to us, no matter how many times we try to make it fit. Whatever your neurotype, whatever you're building, there's a space here for you. You've been creating alone long enough. Visit: https://atppod.com/community Free Gifts for Our Listeners ✨ Free Podcasting Workbook Get a practical podcasting workbook for therapists considering starting a podcast, created by Patrick Casale, host of the podcasts All Things Private Practice and Divergent Conversations. You'll get a practical structure for therapists who want to start a podcast but don’t want to rush, perform, or build something they can’t sustain. Grab your free copy of the Podcasting Workbook: https://ndpod.org/Free-Podcasting-Workbook ✨ Move Beyond Private Practice As A Neurodivergent Entrepreneur Move Beyond Private Practice As A Neurodivergent Entrepreneur is a FREE 5-part mini-course designed for therapists who want sustainable financial independence beyond one-on-one work. Access your free mini-course here: https://ndpod.org/Neurodivergent-Entrepreneur Mentioned in this episode: NeuroPreneur Circle Community NeuroPreneur Circle is an online community built by and for neurodivergent entrepreneurs who want a supportive space to build a business, a space where they can show up as themselves and in whatever way feels most comfortable. NeuroPreneur Circle exists because community built on masking isn't really community. And business advice built for neurotypical brains isn't actually useful to us, no matter how many times we try to make it fit. Whatever your neurotype, whatever you're building, there's a space here for you. You've been creating alone long enough. Visit: https://atppod.com/community