Life After Cancer: A Compelling Conversation with Rob Sullivan

The worst news ever turned out to be an “absolute blessing” for Rob Ryan Sullivan. On his 48th birthday – on Feb. 18, 2015 – Sullivan received news from his doctor that he had lymphoma in the form of massive tumors on his heart and in his neck. Six months and several rounds of chemotherapy later, Sullivan was cured and he had the experience that led to the last chapter of his second book, “A Trek Within: Following Your Inner Compass.” He had been working on the book for almost a decade, and his journey with cancer tied the entire book together.  The book, which is a collection of experiences that changed the way Sullivan views spirituality, the world and his place in it, was officially released in early December 2023. “When you’re going through things, you have to roll with it,” said Sullivan, a professional speaker and coach who has worked more than 70 nationally- and internationally-known organizations including Motorola, Northwestern University, McDonald’s and the University of Michigan. “And I’ve learned there this nothing that says you can’t incorporate your passions into a scenario where you’re living to work rather than working to live.” Sullivan also recently launched SulliVanZyl, an international coaching and consulting company, that also features Barry van Zyl, an internationally recognized drummer, consultant and educator based in South Africa. “We want people to open up to the magic that’s in the world,” Sullivan said. “There’s so much amazing stuff out there if you just pay attention. I’m convinced we miss opportunities at every turn, and most of the time it’s simply because we’re not aware.” For example, Sullivan gets his entrepreneurial spirit from his grandfather, who was a successful soy bean trader, and his great-grandfather, Billy Sullivan Sr., who won a World Series as a catcher with the 1906 White Sox and was the inventor of the inflatable chest protector for catchers. Sullivan said his great-grandfather eventually wound up selling the patent for the protector, which he received in 1908, to a company that would become a major sporting goods business. Today we talk about resignation vs. contentment; negative and positive self-fulfilling mindsets, stoicism and more! Join us for a great frank and encouraging conversation. For more information on Rob and SulliVanZyl, visit: https://sullivanzyl.com Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement in their own journey.                     Follow us on Social Media @patwelshjd