Free & Open Mind

Most of us build an identity out of a job title. Alexi Bracey spent 30 years building hers over a stove — chef, feeder of people, the one who walked out of the kitchen at a remote fishing lodge to make the guests laugh because she had nothing to say about fishing.Then a car hit her head-on. She walked away from it. Two weeks later her balance failed, she fell, and she broke her femur — and with it, the career. No more hauling 30-pound sacks of flour off a shelf. No income. No plan. She couch-surfed for a stretch, never sure night to night where she'd be sleeping.What she says she never lost was the thing underneath the job: "I had the joy in my back pocket."In this conversation with Hardy Brooklyn and Stan Nelson, Alexi traces the whole arc without flinching — the cancer diagnosis she says she beat in a year through raw food, meditation, forgiveness work and sheer refusal to doubt herself; the glamorous, shoe-and-jewelry marriage she left and the humbling that followed; the homelessness that permanently rewired how she sees the person holding a cardboard sign at the intersection. "It's not because they deserve it," she says. "Everybody has a story. Everybody's trying to do their best."Out of that wreckage she built the Leave People Better movement — the practice of ending every single interaction with the other person feeling more human than when it started. Not grand gestures. Reading a barista's name tag and using it. A physical phone call instead of a text asking to schedule a phone call. A paper card. A hand on a stranger's arm. Asking the man holding the door whether his mother is still alive, so you can tell him she did a good job.She tells one story in this episode — about a young Filipino man she met while walking her dogs, his brother's funeral, and a woman who stopped her on the street weeks later — that she says she'll take to her grave. It's worth the listen on its own.You'll also hear:Why she believes your taste buds, not your willpower, are what finally end the fight with food — and the "anchor meal" trick that gets you through a diet transitionThe acid-and-iron tip that quietly explains why every salad dressing on earth has vinegar in itWhy she hugs trees on dog walks, and the "nuggets" she says arrive when she doesThe Christopher Reeve reframe: how the best years can come after the worst thingHer one piece of advice for anyone in free fall right now — and it starts with don't be a solo playerThe 10-day challenge she leaves listeners with: one person, every day, made betterThis one isn't a polished comeback story. It's a woman who lost the thing that made her her, went looking for what was underneath, and found out it was never the job in the first place.Ask yourself Stan's question while you listen: who are you, when every role you've built your identity around is stripped away?

From Blueprints to Sourdough: Are You Feeding Your Body… or Your B.S.?What makes someone walk away from a successful engineering career to spend three days on a single loaf of bread? In this episode, Hardy Brooklyn sits down with Sven “the Baker” Mostegl, an engineer-turned-master-baker who rebuilt his entire life—country, career, and identity—one honest choice at a time.This isn’t a foodie chat. It’s a wake-up call.We dig into:Why pain and “failure” might be your best teachersHow listening to your gut (literally and emotionally) can change your lifeWhat’s really hiding in most supermarket “bread”Why habits, not willpower, are sabotaging your healthHow the people around you can either make your bread rise—or deflate itYou’ll hear about:Bread as therapy, ritual, and rebellionHow your microbiome is talking to your brain (and running more of your life than you think)Why being “a little crazy” might actually mean you’re finally becoming authenticIf you’ve ever felt bloated after a meal, stuck in a life that doesn’t fit, or trapped by other people’s expectations, this episode will hit home.Listen to the end to hear:The one question Sven wants you to ask before you change your lifeA powerful reframe that turns “mistakes” into fuelA simple, first step to start taking your life—and your health—backHit play, break some bread with us, and start feeding the version of you that’s finally ready to rise.

Meet John R. Spender — landscaper-turned-life coach, bestselling author, and director of the award-winning documentary The Gift in Adversity. In this episode of The Free and Open Mind, John reveals how childhood illiteracy, the collapse of a thriving business, and battles with addiction became the very tools that rebuilt his life. Hear the unfiltered stories behind jaw-dropping moments of serendipity — from an unexpected film shoot at Agape to a chance meeting in a Bali bar that changed everything — and how a single gut feeling led him to rescue an orphanage on the brink of starvation.Listen for:•⁠ ⁠The raw moment John chose to stop numbing and start rebuilding (you’ll feel the urgency).•⁠ ⁠How he turned shame into a career and authored 45 books — starting with one small coaching pivot.•⁠ ⁠Practical, tiny daily changes that compound into massive transformation (exact rituals you can try tomorrow).•⁠ ⁠The surprising charitable wins that deepened his purpose — and how your struggles can become your message.•⁠ ⁠A closing challenge from John: one first-time action to break the cycle and begin authentic living.If you’re wrestling with a setback or wondering how to turn pain into purpose, stay with us — this episode moves from hard honesty to tangible next steps and ends with the kind of hope that actually sticks.Find Hardy Brooklyn at  https://boxofrain.com and http://freeandopenmind.com Connect with Stan Nelson at https://coachingwithstan.com.auPodcast website: https://linktr.ee/freeandopenmindIf this episode hits home, follow Free & Open Mind on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, leave a review, and share this with one friend who’s tired of pretending.

Wired for Connection isn’t a networking hack—it’s a reality check on the circuits that actually power your life. In this solo episode, Hardy Brooklyn pulls back the curtain on his Toastmasters speech and goes deeper into the truth underneath the metaphors: why tech, coaching, art, and friendship all live or die on the same three pieces—source, load, return path. You’ll hear how he went from drawers full of dead business cards to a handful of live, monthly check-ins that actually matter, why “I’m just busy” is often code for “I’m disconnected,” and how the performer, peacekeeper, and minimizer masks quietly kill real intimacy. Hardy breaks down authenticity in plain English: not a brand, not a vibe, but a moment where nobody’s managing how they look, and the current finally runs both ways. This episode hands you one deceptively small assignment: send one honest sentence to one person you’ve kept in the drawer and see if the circuit still holds. If you’ve ever felt surrounded by people but still weirdly alone, hit play, complete the circuit—and if you smell smoke, check your grounding.Find Hardy Brooklyn at  https://boxofrain.com and http://freeandopenmind.com Connect with Stan Nelson at https://coachingwithstan.com.auPodcast website: https://linktr.ee/freeandopenmindIf this episode hits home, follow Free & Open Mind on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, leave a review, and share this with one friend who’s tired of pretending.

This Friday on Free & Open Mind, Hardy and Stan sit down with Mike Pierce, creator of The Four Energy Fields — a framework born from over a decade of watching people heal through hypnosis, Reiki, breathwork, meditation, and everything in between. Mike kept noticing the same thing no matter the method: every real breakthrough touched the same four parts of us — Body. Emotion. Mind. Spirit.For years, Mike tried to control his way to clarity — thinking harder, planning tighter, solving every problem before he let himself live it. Sound familiar? He'll tell us exactly what it took to let that go, and what showed up once he did.This is the conversation for anyone who's ever felt stuck even when they "know better" — and wondered why understanding themselves always seemed to be the missing piece.Your takeaway: you don't need fixing. You need to understand yourself. That shift changes everything.📅 Friday, 9 AM on Facebook — hit that reminder button now, grab your coffee, and come think out loud with us. Or catch it after on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube

What do you do when the people who taught you hard work, hustle, and DIY grit… also become the biggest drain on your mental health?In this raw, honest conversation, financial advisor Andrew Quebbemann sits down with Hardy Brooklyn to trace his journey from a Wisconsin family candy store to San Diego skies — and the day he chose to become estranged from his own parents to protect his authenticity.We dig into:Growing up in the family gourmet confectionery business (and why he hated helping customers as a kid)Wanting to be a doctor, landing in pharma/biotech, and “tripping” into salesHow a biology major with Midwest guilt ended up as a financial advisorThe decision to go no-contact with his family after years of repeated, unresolved conflictMourning a relationship with parents who are still aliveHow meditation, rock climbing, and water skiing helped him find his centerWhy he believes there’s “no shame in a dollar”—and why time matters more than moneyPractical first steps to align your money with your values (even if you’re scared to open your bank app)If you’ve ever felt ashamed of what you earn, guilty about what you spend, or trapped in a “sports and weather” relationship that no longer fits who you really are, this episode is your permission to take a chance on yourself.🎧 Hit play to hear how Andrew turned family fracture, money shame, and career pivots into a life built on authenticity, boundaries, and true financial freedom.Connect with Andrew: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-quebbemann/Find Hardy Brooklyn at  https://boxofrain.com and http://freeandopenmind.com Connect with Stan Nelson at https://coachingwithstan.com.auPodcast website: https://linktr.ee/freeandopenmindIf this episode hits home, follow Free & Open Mind on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, leave a review, and share this with one friend who’s tired of pretending.

She overcame societal expectations by becoming pregnant before marriage, challenged a surgeon who claimed women could not be both doctors and mothers, and established the first inclusive program for deaf students in a New York public school—all before publishing her first book. This week, hosts Hardy Brooklyn and Stan Nelson interview educator and author Rosemary Olender, whose new book, Coffee and Wisdom, distills five decades of parenting experience into one guiding ritual: being present each evening with a cup of coffee and a thoughtful question. Rosemary shares the story her father told her the night before he passed—a story that became the inspiration for her book—and explains her “three pillars of intentional parenting”: observe, listen actively, and model. No expensive programs. No additional hours. Just presence.Takeaways:Connection requires intention more than time—five minutes of genuine conversation before the school bus surpasses an hour of distracted togetherness.Children do not become who you instruct them to be; they become who they observe you to be.Call to Action: Watch or listen on Facebook, YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Podcasts, and share a comment about your own “coffee table” moment—a question a parent asked you, or one you ask your children, that made a meaningful impact. We value every comment and appreciate hearing your stories. If this episode resonates with you, consider exploring our back catalog for more thoughtful conversations on authentic living, building resilience in children, and remaining true to yourself in a challenging world.Connect and learn more:Find Rosemary Olender:Calendar link: https://www.companyflix.com/economy/rosemary-olender𝐋𝐢𝐧𝐤𝐞𝐝𝐢𝐧:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosemary-olender-227660356/Website: www.rosemaryolender.comEmail: [email protected]: Family Reflection Insight Questionnaire Find Hardy Brooklyn at  https://boxofrain.com and http://freeandopenmind.com Connect with Stan Nelson at https://coachingwithstan.com.auPodcast Linktree: https://linktr.ee/freeandopenmindIf this episode hits home, follow Free & Open Mind on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, leave a review, and share this with one friend who’s tired of pretending.

In this episode of Free & Open Mind, Hardy Brooklyn and Stan Nelson sit down with C.J. Scarlett – “The Badass Grandma”: survivor, advocate, Marine Corps vet, and creator of the Heroic Kids Safety Game.She shares how she:Turned childhood sexual abuse, PTSD, and autoimmune illness into a mission to protect kidsBuilt a statewide victim notification system that became a national model Uses acts of kindness, boundaries, and authentic self-love to live on her own terms—and teach kids to do the samePerfect for parents, grandparents, educators, and anyone healing from trauma who wants real, authentic tools—not toxic positivity.3 Key Takeaways you will walk away with:    Authentic boundaries beat people-pleasing: “Nice girl syndrome” keeps kids and adults unsafe; clear, authentic no’s are an act of kindness.    Kids can be taught to protect their authentic selves: With practice, they can trust their gut, speak up, and tell safe adults.    Authentic Healing is active: small, daily acts of kindness and genuine, authentic self-love can shift a victim mentality into purpose.Contact:C.J. / Heroic Kids & resources: ⁠thebadassgrandma.com⁠Find Hardy Brooklyn at  ⁠https://boxofrain.com⁠ and ⁠https://hardybrooklyn.com⁠ Connect with Stan Nelson at ⁠https://coachingwithstan.com.au⁠Podcast website: ⁠FreeAndOpenMind.com⁠🎧 Listen now, then do one act of kindness today. That's the whole assignment.

Ever taught everyone else to be “free and open” while secretly running your own life like a locked-down server room?In this solo(ish) origin episode, Hardy Brooklyn (aka Leonard Shostak) and co-host Stan Nelson pull back the curtain on how a geeky love of free and open-source software evolved into a life philosophy — and ultimately, the Free & Open Mind podcast. Hardy shares how he once lived as two separate people—the buttoned‑up consultant “Leonard” and the wild creative “Hardy”—and what happened when those worlds violently collided (hint: Times Square body paint and a lost client are involved). That breakdown became the breakthrough that pushed him toward authenticity, coaching, and teaching others to drop their masks.Along the way, they unpack the three masks many of us wear—the Performer, the Peacekeeper, and the Minimizer—and how trading those roles for a more honest, “free and open” way of being led to less stress, better clients, and a more aligned life.If you’ve ever felt like you’re “open” in theory but closed in practice, this one’s going to hit home.Free & Open Mind started in tech, not therapyHow "Leonard’s" years pushing free and open-source software became the metaphor for opening up his own life.Two identities = one exhausted humanThe cost of living as Hardy in one world and Leonard in another, and the moment those identities collided in public.The three masks we all know too wellPerformer – Reads the room and gives people what they want, at the expense of self.Peacekeeper – Avoids conflict, even when it causes self-harm.Minimizer – Shrinks, disappears, and pretends their needs don’t matter.Authenticity as a stress-reduction toolWhy being honest about who you are, what you value, and who you want around you dramatically lowers stress.Coaching as “open source for humans”How Hardy moved from consultant to coach, blended his sales and communication training, and now openly shares tools instead of guarding them.You don’t have to be “full Hardy”Clients (and listeners) don’t need to copy Leonard; they can find their own mix of authenticity that still feels safe and real.Openness means you might send your client elsewhere—and that’s okayLeonard’s shift from fearing client loss to recommending free coaching spaces and trusting his value.Your stories are your source codeThe “I’m bad at math / money / decisions” scripts you picked up are just old stories you can rewrite.Life is a choice. No choice is also a choice.Stan’s reminder: if you want a better life, you have to choose it first, then do the work to back that choice.Weekly experiment for listenersNotice one belief, habit, or story you picked up from someone else that quietly runs your life.Write it downAsk: “Is this actually mine?”Decide if you want to keep it or refactor itFind Hardy Brooklyn at  https://boxofrain.com and @hardybrooklyn.nycConnect with Stan Nelson at https://coachingwithstan.com.auPodcast website: FreeAndOpenMind.comIf this episode hits home, follow Free & Open Mind on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, leave a review, and share this with one friend who’s ready to start living authentically.

What would you actually risk to be true to yourself?Drop out of school to be a rapper?Walk away from a comfy corporate job?Tell a TV director, “Dude, I don’t even know how to light this cigarette”?In this episode of Free & Open Mind, Hardy and Stan sit down with Yaron (Ron) Urbas —rapper, finance guy, software engineer, actor, and founder of Yummy Media Agency—aka a one-man witness protection program for careers.Ron gets brutally honest about what it really costs to live authentically when your path looks nothing like the brochure.Reinvention on hard mode – from walking dogs and hostile rap crowds to Wall Street, tech, TV sets, and running a marketing agencyWhen being real gets you in trouble – pushing back on directors, arguing with clients, and saying “no” when “yes” would be saferFear as the real enemy – why almost every stuck place is just fear of the unknown (and how to shrink it without pretending you’re not scared)Energy after 40, 50, 60+ – how passion, not age, decides your fuel tank (plus what to do when your body votes “nope”)Authenticity without career suicide – how to be yourself at work and at home without nuking every relationshipTurning losses into leverage – including how a painful day-trading loss now pushes Ron to bet bigger on what actually mattersA simple reframe to “do it scared” instead of waiting to feel readyPermission to stop believing in the “one big opportunity” mythPractical ways to show more of your real self at work, online, and in your closest relationshipsA reminder that in 100 years, no one will remember that one awkward moment, so you might as well danceIf you’ve ever thought, “I’m too old/too late/too off-track to start over,” this episode is your loving slap in the face.If this hit a nerve (or your imposter syndrome is sweating), follow/subscribe, rate the show, and share this with one friend who’s stuck playing it safe. Ask each other: “What would I do if I wasn’t busy pretending to be fine?” Then go do one tiny scary thing.

What if the “safe” life you were told to want is exactly what’s draining your soul?In this episode of Free & Open Mind, Hardy Brooklyn sits down with Alexis Crisp—personal trainer, life coach, and self-described “helper to mankind”—who walked out of a traditional law firm job as a single mom and rebuilt her world around radical authenticity, mental health, and movement.Alexis shares how she traded the 9–5 grind for flexible, freelance work, managed depression and social anxiety (including a disability leave), and used tools like Toastmasters, chess clubs, and her Move 26 Challenge to design a life that actually fits her. Together, we dig into boundaries, family expectations, and why saying yes to yourself is the first step to any real change.If you’re exhausted from performing, people-pleasing, or pretending you’re “fine,” this conversation is your permission slip to live differently. Listen now and ask yourself: Where am I performing instead of living?More about the guest:Move 26 Challenge (free 30 days of videos):Text “Move 26” to 929-379-6716Socials: @alexis.crisp on all major platformsPodcast: Well Women FlourishMore about the host:Host: Hardy Brooklyn – Life coach helping people live authentic lives in a truly inauthentic world Host Website: boxofrain.comPodcast website: FreeAndOpenMind.comIf this episode hits home, follow Free & Open Mind on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, tap the ⭐ rating, and share this with one friend who’s tired of pretending.

Are you actually calm… or just numb?In this episode of The Free & Open Mind, Hardy Brooklyn and co-host Stan Nelson sit down with psychologist and stress expert Gudrun to unpack “borrowed calm” — those moments when you feel okay only because you’ve leaned on alcohol, cannabis, caffeine, sugar, or routine to get you through.We explore how these everyday habits subtly train your nervous system to depend on outside substances and bad habits just to feel “normal,” and what it takes to build a calm that’s actually yours and doesn’t disappear when the glass is empty or the buzz wears off.Listen now and ask yourself: Why am I using this right now? Is this really self-care, or just borrowed calm?”Reflect: Tonight, notice *one* moment you reach for a substance or habit to feel okay. Just name it: No judgment, no big change yet. Share: Screenshot this episode and share your biggest insight or question on social. Tag us so we can continue the conversation. Connect & Learn More: Find Hardy Brooklyn at https://boxofrain.com Connect with Stan Nelson at https://coachingwithstan.com.au Podcast website: http://freeandopenmind.comIf this episode hit home, follow Free & Open Mind on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, leave a review, and share this with one friend who might be living on borrowed calm and ready for something real.

What if your “quiet” isn’t a mask at all—but a survival tool your brain built on purpose? In this follow‑up to our episode on masks and masking, Hardy and Stan revisit the three-mask framework (performer, peacekeeper, minimizer) after a powerful message from an autistic/ADHD listener who didn’t see themselves in any of those boxes. Their feedback flips the script: quiet can be a strategic way to regulate, tears can be pressure valves (not “breakdowns”), and some brains need checklists—not feeling wheels—to move through the world.In this conversation, we explore:When quiet is a tool, not a problem – how waiting, slowing down, and “stillness” can increase your chances of being heardTears as regulation – why crying might mean your system is working, not failingChecklists vs. feelings – practical self-checks (Have I eaten? Am I hydrated?) for brains that don’t do “name the feeling” on commandInteroception and signals – noticing your body’s data (gut, tears, tension) without making yourself wrongCoaching different neurotypes – why forcing people into one framework can backfire, and how to coach the actual person in front of youIf you’ve ever felt broken because you don’t fit the “speak up, move fast, name your feelings” model, this episode is your reminder: your system isn’t broken—it’s different. Different is information, adaptation, and survival.**Subscribe** to the Free and Open Mind Podcast for more real conversations with people who live courageously and authentically. 👍 If this resonated, hit **Like**, drop a comment with your biggest takeaway, and **share** this episode with someone who needs to hear it**Connect with us:**• **Hardy Brooklyn (Host & Life Coach)**: boxofrain.nyc | hardybrooklyn.nyc | Instagram @hardybrooklyn • **Stan Nelson (Host & Moving Forward & Goal Success Coach**: Website & Blog: https://coachingwithstan.com.au• 🎧 **Listen Live:** Free & Open Mind streams **live every Friday at 9 AM (ET)**. ▶️ **Replay & Watch:** Full episodes are posted on Spotify, Apple Podcast, and YouTube the same day.

When was the last time you walked into a room — a meeting, a family dinner, a tough conversation — and were completely, unapologetically yourself?In this episode of The Free & Open Mind, Hardy Brooklyn breaks down why so many smart, capable people stay silent even when they see exactly what’s going wrong… and what it’s costing them in their bodies, minds, and relationships.You’ll hear about:The 3 common masks we wear: the Performer, the Peacekeeper, and the MinimizerWhy your body and nervous system keep the score when you swallow the truthThe idea of “authenticity debt” — and how years of performing can make you forget who you areA simple 3-step process: Speak, Cope, Grow to say the hard thing without blowing everything upHow to lead with the other person’s interests (Dale Carnegie-style) so your truth actually landsA real client story (“Renee”) who used this framework to finally ask for what she wanted — and got itHardy also gives you a one-sentence challenge you can use this week:Say one true thing to one person you’ve been holding back from.If you’ve ever felt like you’re performing your life instead of living it — this episode is your invitation to take the mask off, one honest sentence at a time.New episodes every Friday with Hardy Brooklyn (and co-host Stan from Perth when he’s not off teaching people how to survive in the wilderness).🎧 Listen, subscribe, and share this episode with one person who needs to hear it.### 👤 About the Hosts **Hardy Brooklyn** is a life and business coach based in Brooklyn, New York. Hardy helps individuals who feel something’s “just not right” in their lives redirect their path towards a healthier, happier, more rewarding life. • Website & Newsletter: https://boxofrain.com • Link: https://www.bor.bz • Linktree: https://linktr.ee/hardybrooklyn **Stan Nelson** is a moving forward and goal success coach from Perth, Western Australia. Stan helps people who feel stuck start living extraordinary lives with clarity, momentum, and aligned goals.• Website & Blog: https://coachingwithstan.com.au --- **If this episode resonates with you**, hit **Subscribe**, share your biggest takeaway from this conversation in the comments, and pass this along to someone who needs to be reminded that they can live authentically.If this episode resonates: Hit LIKE to support the show, SUBSCRIBE to the channel for more real conversations about authenticity, mindset, and resilience. COMMENT: What’s one tiny way you’ll choose to be more authentic this week? SHARE this with someone who’s navigating chronic illness, identity, or big life change.🎧 **Listen Live:** Free & Open Mind streams **live every Friday at 9 AM (ET)**. ▶️ **Replay & Watch:** Full episodes are posted on YouTube the same day.

What does a hot air balloon in 1783 France have to do with your life and business today?In this episode of The Free & Open Mind, Leonard (Hardy Brooklyn) and Stan revisit the story of the Montgolfier brothers and the first hot air balloon flight to explore what it really means to live authentically, take real risks, and follow your curiosity even when people are watching.You’ll hear us dive into:Authenticity vs. performance – Are you taking real risks, or just looking like you are?Fear of public failure – Why you often have to “show up and suck before you show up and shine.”Curiosity as a compass – How genuine curiosity pulls you beyond comfort and conformity.Perspective shifts – Seeing life from new angles, both literally and metaphorically.Modern parallels – AI, social media, content creation, and “performative authenticity.”Leonard’s journey – Leaving the corporate power industry, unlearning inauthentic habits, and noticing how the body holds stress from years of misalignment.Spotting inauthenticity – From shaky “photographers” to people using AI and shortcuts that clash with who they really are.Coaching & honesty – Why saying “I didn’t do the work” is more powerful than pretending you did.We’ll leave you with a few powerful questions:Where in your life are you truly curious right now?What real risk could you take in the next 90 days that isn’t for show?How can you see your world from a new perspective?If you’re ready to stop playing it safe, honor your authentic self, and take the kind of risks that actually change your life, this episode is for you.Connect with us:Leonard (Hardy Brooklyn): boxofrain.com | Instagram: @hardybrooklyn.nycStan (Moving Forward & Goal Success Coach): coachingwithstan.com.au

**What if the only thing standing between you and your true potential is the fear of being your true self?**In this episode of **Free & Open Mind**, we sit down with **Michael S.**, who grew up with a learning disability, speech challenges, and constant bullying — and still chose to build a life based on **authenticity, courage, and compassion**.Michael spent his early years in special ed classes, working with speech therapists and navigating labels that tried to define him. As a teen, he began sitting in on his own **IEP (Individualized Education Plan)** meetings and advocating to move into mainstream classes. That empowered him, proving to others — and to himself — that he was capable of far more than the system expected.Today, Michael has stepped into roles of **leadership and responsibility**, including working as a **shift leader**, managing staff, handling customer issues, and becoming an active member and club officer in **Toastmasters International**.In this conversation, we explore:**Authenticity in real life** What it actually means to be your true self in daily decisions and difficult moments.**Disability, labels, & bullying** Growing up with a learning disability and speech issues, being picked on, and realizing other people’s judgments say more about *them* than about you.**From “special ed kid” to leader** How Michael moved from special education to mainstream classes, then into leadership roles at work and in Toastmasters.**Finding his voice with Toastmasters** Using public speaking to build confidence and see himself as a speaker and leader, not just someone with a diagnosis.**Letting go of people-pleasing** The journey from trying not to disappoint anyone to saying,“I’m not here to please them. I’m here to please myself,” and what that actually looks like in practice.**Compassion, check-ins, & mental health** • Why simple “How are you really?” messages matter. • How check-ins, especially with friends, family, and club members, support mental health and authenticity.**Money, stress, & happiness** Michael’s honest view: money can create happiness through experiences and security — and it can also create real stress. We talk about bills, budgeting, paying yourself first, and still allowing joy.**Daily self-care & staying grounded** From morning coffee and time with nieces and nephews to Toastmasters meetings and occasional “scream therapy” behind a closed door, Michael shares how he keeps himself grounded and real.**Message to parents**Michael closes with a message for **parents of kids with disabilities** — and anyone facing big challenges: don’t overthink every obstacle. Do your best, keep moving, and remember that one day you may look back and realize it didn’t deserve as much of your worry as it got.---### 👤 About the Hosts**Hardy Brooklyn** is a life and business coach based in Brooklyn, New York. Hardy helps individuals who feel something’s “just not right” in their lives redirect their path towards a healthier, happier, more rewarding life.- Website & Newsletter: https://boxofrain.com - Link: https://www.bor.bz - Linktree: https://linktr.ee/hardybrooklyn **Stan Nelson** is a moving forward and goal success coach from Perth, Western Australia. Stan helps people who feel stuck start living extraordinary lives with clarity, momentum, and aligned goals.- Website & Blog: https://coachingwithstan.com.au ---**If this episode resonates with you**, hit **Subscribe**, share your biggest takeaway about authenticity or labels in the comments, and pass this along to someone who needs to be reminded that they can write their own story.

**What happens when your body forces you to stop pretending?**In this episode of the Free & Open Mind Podcast, Hardy and co-host Stan sit down with marketing strategist and proudly queer business owner Tom Basgil for a raw, practical conversation about authenticity when life hits hard.After being diagnosed with Addison’s disease, Tom went from barely making it to the subway — stopping at every bench — to betting on himself, leaving agency life, and building a business that actually fits his energy, values, and identity.We dig into: **Chronic Illness & Identity** • The moment Tom’s life flipped with his Addison’s diagnosis • How his body changing (energy, skin tone, capacity) forced a new kind of self-honesty • Why survival sometimes does mean choosing inauthentic options—and why that’s okay **Authenticity as a Daily Practice (Not a Finish Line)** • What it really means to “practice” being authentic in work, family, and friendships • Navigating the tension between fitting in vs. being yourself, especially as a queer, chronically ill entrepreneur • How Tom handles slipping into old patterns around family and old friends **Radical Acceptance & Mental Health** • Tom’s approach to radical acceptance when the inner critic gets loud • The role of therapy, coaching, and community in setting boundaries and staying sane • Why some days the most authentic choice is: do nothing; stay home; reset **Rituals, Routines, & Resilience** • Simple daily practices Tom uses to stay grounded: coffee + journaling, walking, the gym, volunteering • How he structures his business around unpredictable energy, while still delivering for clients • Balancing an executive MBA, client work, and health — without chasing perfection or straight A’s **Imposter Syndrome & Big Rooms** • How Tom navigates imposter syndrome among high-achieving execs and founders • Breathing through anxiety, remembering why you’re in the room, and choosing growth anywayIf you’re: • Living with a chronic illness or disability • Part of the LGBTQ+ community trying to stay true to yourself at work • A founder, creator, or professional who’s tired of contorting yourself to fit other people’s expectations… this conversation will give you permission to take tiny, honest steps toward a life that actually feels like yours.CONNECT WITH TOMWebsite: StickyTactics.comSocial: TomBasgil on all major platformsCONNECT WITH YOUR HOSTS Hardy Brooklyn – Life & Business Coach, Brooklyn, NY Website: Boxofrain.com Instagram: @hardybrooklyn.nyc Stan Nelson – Moving Forward & Goal Success Coach, Perth, Australia Website: coachingwithstan.com.au**If this episode resonates with you:** Hit LIKE to support the show SUBSCRIBE to the channel for more real conversations about authenticity, mindset, and resilience COMMENT: What’s one tiny way you’ll choose to be more authentic this week? SHARE this with someone who’s navigating chronic illness, identity, or big life change🎧 **Listen Live:** Free & Open Mind streams **live every Friday at 9 AM (ET)**. ▶️ **Replay & Watch:** Full episodes are posted on YouTube the same day.

**Feeling weird about celebrating yourself?**Like you “haven’t earned it yet” or you’re just going through the motions with cake, photos, and pressure?In this episode of **Free & Open Mind**, Hardy Brooklyn flies solo to unpack what **celebration** really is — and how to make it feel honest, grounded, and aligned with who you are.We’ll explore:**Why milestones matter** (and why tiny wins often matter more than the big ones) • How to create **simple celebration rituals** that fit your real life • What to do when celebration brings up **guilt, shame, or anxiety** • How to practice **self-compassion** instead of downplaying your success • Ways to celebrate that **don’t require a big party, big budget, or big audience****Hardy shares real-life examples**, from treating himself to mint chip vegan ice cream after three days at the gym to dancing for hours at the Dance Parade as a reminder that celebration is less about the cake and more about the **person you became** to get here.### Reflective questions from this episode: • What’s one **small win** you’re rushing past right now? • Where does your **guilt around celebrating** really come from? • How could you mark your next milestone in a way that feels **authentic**, not performative?If this episode lands with you, take a second to **pause**, name one thing you’re proud of today and honor it, even in a tiny way.### 👤 About the Host**Hardy Brooklyn** is a life and business coach based in Brooklyn, New York. Hardy helps individuals who feel something’s “just not right” in their lives redirect their path towards a healthier, happier, more rewarding life. • Website & Newsletter: https://boxofrain.com • Link: https://www.bor.bz • Linktree: https://linktr.ee/hardybrooklyn ---🎧 **Listen Live:** Free & Open Mind streams **live every Friday at 9 AM (ET)**. ▶️ **Replay & Watch:** Full episodes are posted on YouTube the same day.---💬 **If you enjoyed this episode:**- **Like** the video - **Subscribe** to the channel - **Comment** with one small win you’re choosing to celebrate today 📲 And keep an eye on Hardy’s Instagram for the **Dance Parade videos** mentioned in this episode—proof that joy, movement, and celebration can all be part of your self-growth journey.

**When money gets weird, our nervous system does too.** In this episode of *Free & Open Mind*, Hardy and Stan dive into what so many people are quietly wrestling with right now: **rising prices, shrinking options, and the shame spiral that follows.**We’re **not** financial advisors. We’re **life coaches** who work with real people trying to stay grounded when:• Groceries cost 30% more than last year • Gas and travel feel out of reach • Digital money makes it way too easy to swipe, tap, and overspend • Social pressure says “Keep up” while your budget screams “Slow down”### In this episode, we explore:**What’s in your control vs. what isn’t** • You *can’t* change inflation, corporate decisions, supply chains, digital systems (but you can vote!) • Where your real leverage actually is.**Money, shame, and status games** • From $22 bottled water at a club to “Aren’t you going to buy me a drink?”: how money, worth, and belonging get tangled together, and how to step out of that game.**Digital money & invisible overspending** • Why tapping your card or phone disconnects you from reality• Smple ways to make money feel tangible again**Daily habits that quietly drain your wallet** The client who spent ~$50/day on coffee, how they shifted the habit, and what they did with the *time* and *emotional comfort* that coffee was providing.**Scarcity, empty shelves & shifting routines** • Changing *when* and *where* you shop• How to adapt to limited choices• Why early-morning grocery runs can change your budget and your stress levels**Journaling your money & emotions: a 7-day experiment** A simple log that tracks:• What you spent • What you *didn’t* buy • How you felt when you made (or didn’t make) the purchase • What triggered your decisions (stress, boredom, celebration, avoidance, etc.)### You’ll walk away with:• A clearer sense that **it’s not your fault** the system is weird • A checklist of what you **can** control today • A 7-day **money + emotion journaling practice** you can start immediately • Mindset shifts to **remove shame**, keep your self-worth intact, and still enjoy your life — even on a tighter budget**Try this after the episode:**1. **Create a rough budget.** It doesn’t have to be perfect. 2. **Run a 7-day money journal.** Track every expense + emotion. 3. **Notice your “shame spending” moments.** Where are you trying to keep up, prove something, or avoid a feeling? Share your insights, wins, and “aha” moments in the comments — we *read them all* and may feature them in a future episode.🔔 **Subscribe** for weekly episodes on mindset, money, authenticity, and navigating a world that doesn’t always make sense. 💬 **Comment** how your journaling experiment goes and what you’re learning about your money story.### 👤 About the Hosts **Hardy Brooklyn** is a life and business coach based in Brooklyn, New York. Hardy helps individuals who feel something’s “just not right” in their lives redirect their path towards a healthier, happier, more rewarding life. • Website & Newsletter: https://boxofrain.com • Link: https://www.bor.bz • Linktree: https://linktr.ee/hardybrooklyn **Stan Nelson** is a moving forward and goal success coach from Perth, Western Australia. Stan helps people who feel stuck start living extraordinary lives with clarity, momentum, and aligned goals. • Website & Blog: https://coachingwithstan.com.au 🎧 **Listen Live:** Free & Open Mind streams **live every Friday at 9 AM (ET)**. ▶️ **Replay & Watch:** Full episodes are posted on YouTube the same day.

What does it *really* mean to live authentically when the world keeps asking you to compromise?In this episode of the **Free and Open Mind Podcast**, hosts **Hardy Brooklyn** and **Stan Nelson** sit down with **David Robles** — New Yorker, entrepreneur, Coast Guard officer, and fearless truth-teller — whose life journey runs from Brooklyn to North Africa and Haiti, from Burning Man to the music industry, and from exposing corruption to building a life rooted in integrity.**You’ll hear David talk about:**• Surviving Haiti during earthquake relief and what happens when you’re *not sure you’ll make it home*• How Burning Man and refugee camps share the same DNA of civil engineering and radical self-reliance • The dark side of the entertainment industry and why he walked away — even under threat • Why **“ego is not your amigo”** and how that simple idea can transform your relationships, career, and mental health • The power of human connection, from free hugs in Union Square to offering a coffee to someone on the edge • How his relationship and engagement to Lily grounded his values and redefined success • Why your **network is your net worth**, and why money, status, and labels are not the point of lifeIf you’ve ever felt like something in your life is “off,” like you’re living for others’ expectations instead of your own truth, this conversation will challenge you to rethink:• What you value • Whom you surround yourself with • And how you show up in the world — especially when things fall apart**Key themes:** authenticity, ego, radical self-reliance, mental health after COVID, Coast Guard & emergency response, Burning Man, relationships, human connection.🔔 **Subscribe** to the Free and Open Mind Podcast for more real conversations with people who live courageously and authentically. 👍 If this resonated, hit **Like**, drop a comment with your biggest takeaway, and **share** this episode with someone who needs to hear that *ego is not their amigo*.**Connect with us:**• **Hardy Brooklyn (Host & Life Coach)**: boxofrain.nyc | hardybrooklyn.nyc | Instagram @hardybrooklyn • **Stan Nelson (Host & Moving Forward & Goal Success Coach**: Website & Blog: https://coachingwithstan.com.au • **Guest – David Robles**: Instagram/Facebook: **@DavidRoblesNYC**, **David Atlas OSS** | Brand: **Atlas Solution**🎧 **Listen Live:** Free & Open Mind streams **live every Friday at 9 AM (ET)**. ▶️ **Replay & Watch:** Full episodes are posted on YouTube the same day.

**Are you living your life… or just *performing* in it for everyone else?**In this episode of Free & Open Mind, Brooklyn life & business coach Hardy Brooklyn tears into quick fixes, fake “authenticity,” and why fear sneakily hijacks your career, your business, and your happiness.You’ll hear:• How to tell if an opportunity is a genuine “hell yes” or just a fear-based shortcut • The client who was told to be loud on social: why it failed and what actually worked • The project manager who tried to rebrand as an AI expert—and tanked every interview • The successful insurance broker who’s too scared to take a vacation • The powerful difference between *moving forward* and *performing forward*Hardy shares his own shift from stressed-out tech pro “performing success” to building a life that finally fits who he really is.**Your key takeaways:**• A simple gut check for every new opportunity • Practical ways to stay aligned with your real values • Permission to stop chasing shortcuts and start honoring your authentic selfGrab a coffee/beer/tea and ask yourself: Is this next move really me—or just another performance?### 👤 About the Host**Hardy Brooklyn** is a life and business coach based in Brooklyn, New York. Hardy helps individuals who feel something’s “just not right” in their lives redirect their path towards a healthier, happier, more rewarding life. • Website & Newsletter: https://boxofrain.com • Link: https://www.bor.bz • Linktree: https://linktr.ee/hardybrooklyn **Want to work with Hardy or be a guest on the show?**• Visit FreeAndOpenMind.com• Or connect with Hardy @hardybrooklyn.nyc or https://boxofrain.com👍 Like, subscribe, and share if you’re ready to stop performing and start living your own life.

In this powerful episode of Free & Open Mind, host Hardy Brooklyn (Leonard Shostak) sits down with health and resilience coach *Jeremy Sullivan* for an honest conversation about healing, authenticity, and putting your well-being first.Jeremy opens up about his seven-year battle with severe skin inflammation, asthma, and eczema—a journey that included multiple hospitalizations, powerful medications like prednisone, and the emotional toll of not getting real answers from traditional medicine.*Instead of giving up, Jeremy chose resilience.*He:- Sought out specialists in chronic illness who focused on healing rather than just managing symptoms - Committed to a detailed 42-page healing plan, including a three-week fast- Made bold lifestyle changes—including relocating from New York to Peru—to live in an environment that supported his recovery - Rebuilt his mindset, learning to become his own "best friend" and strongest advocate *What You’ll Take Away from This Episode:*Watching this episode, you’ll gain:- *A new perspective on resilience:* How to keep going when there’s no clear light at the end of the tunnel—and how to create that light yourself.- *Practical mindset tools for tough times:* Why 1% daily improvement and “one-degree” shifts can completely change your life over time.- *Insight into chronic illness and emotional health:* How long-term health issues can be deeply connected to your environment, stress, work, and authenticity.- *The power of environment in healing:* Why Jeremy’s decision to move to a warmer, coastal climate in Peru was more than a big life change—it was a strategic health decision.- *How to start your own journey:* Actionable ideas for: - Taking "baby steps" instead of overwhelming yourself - Recognizing signs you may not be living authentically - Asking for help and building a support network - Letting go of guilt and shame that keep you stuck - *A reminder that you deserve better:* You deserve to live the life you truly want—physically, mentally, and emotionally—and it’s never too late to start.Your journey matters. If you're dealing with chronic health issues, burnout, emotional overwhelm, or simply feeling “off” in life and wanting more, this episode might be the 1% shift that changes your trajectory! What's the biggest insight you got from Jeremy’s story? What's the one baby step you’re going to take next? Share in a comment!*Connect with Jeremy Sullivan:*Instagram: @jeremynsullivanWorkouts, coaching info, and website link available via his Instagram profile.*Connect with Hardy Brooklyn:*Instagram: @hardybrooklyn.nycNewsletter: www.BOR.bz👉 *If this episode resonates with you:*- Like this video - Subscribe to Free & Open Mind

Welcome to the Free and Open Mind Podcast, where massive life changes start with small things, like 15 minutes of exercise, a treadmill, and a stranger ...In this episode, Hardy Brooklyn and Stan Nelson dive into the messy, funny, and very human reality of embracing change – not with dramatic movie-montage transformations, but with tiny, awkward, powerful baby steps.*You’ll hear about:*🏋️ The client who hated his job so much that a 15‑minute morning workout accidentally led him to a better-paying, work-from-home dream job (thanks to one very loud phone call at the gym).🐢 Why small, consistent steps beat giant “New Year, New Me” moves that fizzle out by week two.🎯 The difference between running away from something (“I don’t want this life anymore”) and moving toward something (“I want THIS kind of life”) – and why your brain cooperates way more with the second one.💼 Stories of people who ditched high-status, high-stress careers (hello, lawyers and corporate high-fliers) for more joy, authenticity, and sanity.🧠 How your mindset about money, work, and “success” can keep you stuck – or quietly push you into a life that actually feels good to live.*You’ll get out of this episode:*- Practical ideas for starting change in 15 minutes a day (or less).- A new way to think about goals: toward vs. away from.- Permission to not have it all figured out, as long as you’re taking the next small step.- A few laughs, a few “ohhh… that’s me!” moments, and a gentle kick in the pants to finally start.*If you’re tired of:*- Forcing yourself out of bed for a job you can’t stand- Waiting for a huge breakthrough that never comes- Feeling guilty because you “should be grateful,” but you’re not.… then this episode is for you! Start with a baby step right now: press play.*If you like what you hear:*👉 Subscribe to the channel so you don’t miss next week’s episode with our guest Jeremy, a personal trainer who helps people live longer, healthier, and more authentically. He'll share his story of how he transformed his own life.👍 Like this video if it gave you even one idea for a small change you can start today.💬 Answer one of these questions in a comment:- What’s one tiny change you’re willing to commit to this week?- Are you currently running away from something or moving toward something?🔔 Hit the bell icon so you’ll know when we go live (every Friday at 9am Eastern).*About the Hosts*Hardy Brooklyn is a life and business coach based in Brooklyn, New York. Hardy helps individuals who feel something’s “just not right” figure out how to redirect their path to a healthier, happier, more rewarding journey. Website & Newsletter: https://boxofrain.com Linktree: https://linktr.ee/hardybrooklynStan Nelson is a moving forward and goal success coach from Perth, Western Australia. Stan helps people who feel stuck start living extraordinary lives with clarity, momentum, and aligned goals. Website & Blog: https://coachingwithstan.com.au🔴 Watch Live & Catch Past EpisodesThe Free & Open Mind Podcast streams live every Friday at 9:00 AM Eastern Time. Live and find past episodes: https//freeandopenmind.comWe feature guests from all walks of life who openly share about authentic living, identity, transformation, and personal growth.💬 *Join the Conversation* We encourage you to: - Ask questions in the live chat and comments - Share your own experiences with authenticity, motherhood, identity, and big life transitions - Suggest future guests or topics you’d love to see on the show👍 *Support the Show*If this conversation resonates with you: - Like this video - Subscribe to the channel - Comment with your biggest takeaway from today's stories - Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement to live more authenticallyAnd if you’d like to be a guest or learn more about us, check out the links in the description/comments to connect with Hardy Brooklyn and Stan Nelson.

In this episode of the Free & Open Mind Podcast, hosts Hardy Brooklyn and Stan sit down with CC Kaminovich, a former attorney and NFL sports agent turned transformational mentor for women navigating big life transitions.Together, they explore what it really means to live authentically beyond titles and roles—especially around motherhood, career, identity, and societal expectations—and how women can reclaim their inner authority and stop abandoning themselves.🌱 *In This Episode, We Talk About:*- CC’s unconventional journey from law to NFL sports agent to transformational mentor- How a career built on contracts and negotiations led her to mindset, energetics, and ultimately to guiding women through major life transitions.- Motherhood, career shifts, and choosing authenticity over expectations- The inner tug-of-war between being a high-achieving professional, a present mother, and a woman who wants to live on her own terms.- Breaking free from conditioning and self-abandonment- CC’s vulnerable story about staying in an inauthentic marriage for seven years, ignoring her inner voice because of family and cultural expectations—and what it took to finally honor herself.- Practical steps to honor your own heart and close the gap between where you are and where you want to be- Including her three-step process: honest self-reflection, clarifying your desired future, and using your emotions as a “GPS” to measure the gap.- Blending energetics, Reiki, and spiritual practices with real-world life and business- How to integrate “two worlds” (spiritual and practical) instead of feeling like you have to choose one or live a double life.🎙 *About Our Guest – CC Kaminovich*CC Kaminovich is a transformational guided mentor for women who are standing on the threshold of “something’s not right” and are ready to reclaim their inner authority, step out of performance mode, and live from the inside out.She helps women who are often the most competent person in the room—but the most self-abandoning—move beyond external roles and conditioning so they can lead, love, and live from their authentic feminine power.Connect with CC: Website: https://splendidlyintrepid.com Instagram: @splendidly_intrepid Email: [email protected] LinkedIn: Search “CC Kaminovich” or “Splendidly Intrepid”👤 *About the Hosts*Hardy Brooklyn is a life and business coach based in Brooklyn, New York. Hardy helps individuals who feel something’s “just not right” figure out how to reconnect their path to a healthier, happier, more rewarding journey. Website & Newsletter: https://boxofrain.com Link: https://www.bor.bz Linktree: https://linktr.ee/hardybrooklynStan Nelson is a moving forward and goal success coach from Perth, Western Australia. Stan helps people who feel stuck start living extraordinary lives with clarity, momentum, and aligned goals. Website & Blog: https://coachingwithstan.com.au🔴 *Watch Live & Catch Past Episodes*The Free & Open Mind Podcast streams live every Friday at 9:00 AM Eastern Time. Watch live and find past episodes: https://freeandopenmind.com (Redirects to the YouTube channel and the archive of past episodes.)We feature guests from all walks of life who openly share about authentic living, identity, transformation, and personal growth.💬 *Join the Conversation:*- What's your biggest takeaway after hearing CC?- Share your own experiences with authenticity, motherhood, identity, and big life transitions - What would you like to hear Stan and Hardy delve into next?Let us know in the comments!👍 *Support the Show*If this conversation resonates with you:- Like this video- Subscribe to the channel- Comment with your biggest takeaway from CC’s story- Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement to live more authenticallyYour support helps us reach more people who are ready to live with a Free & Open Mind.

Welcome to The Free and Open Mind Podcast, where we explore what it really means to live authentically in a world that constantly pushes us to conform.In this episode, Hardy Brooklyn and Stan Nelson sit down with award‑winning artist and author Harrison Love—one of the rare creators celebrated both as a visual artist and a novelist. Harrison’s illustrated novel, “The Hidden Way,” was 13 years in the making and is rooted in three years of first‑hand research living among indigenous tribes in the Amazon jungle.In this conversation, we explore: • Turning dyslexia into a superpower • How being labeled “learning disabled” pushed Harrison to develop a different kind of intelligence and ultimately become a writer and illustrator. Living with Amazonian tribes: • What Harrison learned from the Shipibo and Ashaninka about art, spirituality, reciprocity with nature, and the role of the artist as a sacred medium. The invitation to stay in the jungle forever: • A shaman’s offer to marry his daughter and build a life in the Amazon—and why Harrison chose to return to New York and complete his life’s work. Thirteen years, four thefts, one book. • How The Hidden Way was stolen multiple times, why most people would have quit, and what kept Harrison coming back to the page. Art, social media, and staying safe while being visible: • Harrison’s personal experiences with online harassment and stalking, and how he protects his authenticity in a culture that can punish those who stand out. Founding Stoa: bringing art back to the people… • Why Harrison created Stoa, a grassroots arts movement in Brooklyn that “rewilds” inspiration, bypasses broken gallery systems, and gives artists a public, communal stage. A call to artists: the “yelp” of the soul: • Harrison shares a poetic manifesto—a “yelp”—calling artists to push through resistance, honor their creative calling, and understand that progress always comes with a little resistance.Guest Info – Harrison Love • Website: HarrisonLove.com • Book: “The Hidden Way” by Harrison McDonald Love – available on Amazon and Barnes & Noble • Email: [email protected] • Follow Harrison on social media for updates on book readings in Chattanooga, Brooklyn, and across New York City, plus recordings of live readings and Stoa events.👤 About the HostsHardy BrooklynLife and business coach based in Brooklyn, New York. Hardy helps individuals who feel something’s “just not right” figure out how to reconnect their path to a healthier, happier, more rewarding journey. Website & Newsletter: https://boxofrain.com Link: https://www.bor.bz Linktree: https://linktr.ee/hardybrooklynStanMoving forward and goal success coach from Perth, Western Australia. Stan helps people who feel stuck start living extraordinary lives with clarity, momentum, and aligned goals. Website & Blog: https://coachingwithstan.com.au🔴 Watch Live & Catch Past EpisodesThe Free & Open Mind Podcast streams live every Friday at 9:00 AM Eastern Time. Watch live and find past episodes: https://freeandopenmind.com (Redirects to the YouTube channel and the archive of past episodes.)We feature guests from all walks of life who openly share about authentic living, identity, transformation, and personal growth.💬 Join the ConversationWe encourage you to: Ask questions in the live chat and comments Share your own experiences with authenticity, motherhood, identity, and big life transitions Suggest future guests or topics you’d love to see on the show👍 Support the ShowIf this conversation resonates with you: Like this video Subscribe to the channel Comment with your biggest takeaway from CC’s story Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement to live more authenticallyYour support helps us reach more people who are ready to live with a Free & Open Mind.

Welcome to the Free & Open Mind Podcast, where we explore authentic living, deep change… and why hypnotists aren’t out there robbing banks.In this episode, hosts Hardy Brooklyn (Brooklyn-based business & life coach) and Stan (goal success coach from Perth, Australia) sit down with Joel from BodyMind Hypnotic. Joel's a former paralegal who traded checking legal documents for guiding people into trance and transformation.*You’ll hear about:*• How trance is really just focused attention (yes, your highway driving zone-out counts).• Why self-hypnosis is possible—but a lot easier with a coach who can see you spinning your hands and say, “Uh, let’s slow that down.”• Why hypnotists can’t just make you rob a bank (unless your imagination really wants to go along for the ride).• Simple tools like breath work, crossing the midline, and Joel’s “emotional muscle building” exercise to help you avoid going full hamster-on-a-wheel in your own head.• How changing “I’m a bad person” into your worst Michael Jackson impression of “I’m bad” can actually rewire your inner dialogue.• Joel’s authentic side: Tai Chi, one‑pot cooking, marinated eggs, vegan cheese, sci‑fi nerdery, and medieval reenactment (because nothing says self‑improvement like hitting your friends with padded weapons—responsibly).Along the way, Hardy reluctantly admits he’s great at putting people into trance with storytelling—but not so keen on being hypnotized himself. Control issues? Joel has thoughts.*If you’ve ever wondered—*• Can I really be hypnotized?• Why is change so hard?• Is talking things out with a coach, therapist, or a mate over a beer basically low-key hypnosis?—this episode is for you!*About our Guest*👉 Check out Joel’s work at BodyMind Hypnotic (links in the description) and try his “Flip Your Script” resource to start messing with that unhelpful inner voice—preferably in a funny accent.👤 *About the Hosts*Hardy Brooklyn is a life and business coach based in Brooklyn, New York. Hardy helps individuals who feel something’s “just not right” figure out how to reconnect their path to a healthier, happier, more rewarding journey.• Website & Newsletter: https://boxofrain.com• Link: https://www.bor.bz• Linktree: https://linktr.ee/hardybrooklynStan Nelson is a moving forward and goal success coach from Perth, Western Australia. Stan helps people who feel stuck start living extraordinary lives with clarity, momentum, and aligned goals.• Website & Blog: https://coachingwithstan.com.au🔴 *Watch Live & Catch Past Episodes*The Free & Open Mind Podcast streams live every Friday at 9:00 AM Eastern Time. Watch live and find past episodes: https://freeandopenmind.com (Redirects to the YouTube channel and the archive of past episodes.)We feature guests from all walks of life who openly share about authentic living, identity, transformation, and personal growth.💬 *Join the Conversation*• Ask questions in the live chat and comments• Share your own experiences with authenticity, motherhood, identity, and big life transitions• Suggest future guests or topics you’d love to see on the show👍 •Support the Show•If this conversation resonates with you:• Like this video• Subscribe to the channel• Comment with your biggest takeaway from Joel’s story• Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement to live more authenticallyYour support helps us reach more people who are ready to live with a Free & Open Mind.

Welcome to the **Free & Open Mind Podcast** – a weekly live show where we explore **authentic living** with real stories, practical strategies, and honest conversations.In this episode, **Hardy Brooklyn** – a life and business coach based in Brooklyn, NY – dives into what it *really* means to live authentically:- Showing up as your **true self** (without masks or costumes) - Asking: *“Am I doing this because I truly want to, or to please others?”* - Building **self-confidence** through small daily choices - Celebrating **small wins** and embracing imperfection - Setting boundaries and saying **no** to people and situations that don’t respect who you are - Owning neurodiversity, dyslexia, and other traits as part of your authentic self 🔴 **Live every Friday at 9:00 AM (ET) on YouTube** Watch past and future episodes at: **freeandopenmind.com** (redirects to Hardy’s YouTube channel).👤 **About Hardy Brooklyn** Hardy is a life and business coach who helps people who feel “something’s just not right” in their life figure out what it is, how to correct it, and how to create a more joyful, rewarding path by being their authentic self.👉 **Reflection Questions for You:** - Are you living life for who *you* want to be, or behind a mask? - Are you honoring your **values, desires, and limitations**—physical and mental? - What small win can you celebrate today on your journey toward authenticity?🔔 **Subscribe** to Free & Open Mind for weekly episodes on authentic living, self-discovery, and real-world strategies for a happier life. See you next Friday—with a special guest.

In this episode of the Free & Open Mind podcast, hosts Hardy Brooklyn (life & business coach, Brooklyn, NY) and Stan Nelson (moving forward & goal success coach, Perth, Australia) sit down with Gudrun Schmidt, a psychologist and coach from Germany who specializes in resilience, burnout, and traffic psychology.Gudrun shares her powerful story of: Growing up with a mother who struggled with alcoholism and a suicide attempt Building resilience from a difficult childhood and learning to cope rather than escape Working in traffic psychology, alcohol- and drug-related driving offenses, and stress reduction Facing a life-changing lymphoma diagnosis, partial paralysis, months in hospitals, and infection complications Maintaining her authentic self and continuing to coach online through cancer, disability, and depression Moving from running ultra-marathons and Berlin marathons to redefining joy through cooking, meaningful work, and helping othersShe offers practical tools for living more authentically, including: Accepting what you can’t immediately change Using music and connection with others to manage stress and pain Mind mapping to sort mental chaos and find solutions Journaling each morning to structure the day Taking care of the basics: sleep, movement, nutrition, and self-compassionKey messages: Never give up hope. Resilience can be learned at any age. Even when walls appear—illness, disability, loss—you can find new paths to live in alignment with who you are.🔗 Connect with Gudrun:Website: https://www.coach-gudrun.comSearch: “Gudrun Schmidt Germany” on social media to find her profiles.🎧 This audio episode is part of the Free & Open Mind podcast, where we feature real people from all walks of life sharing their journeys toward authentic living.📅 We stream live every Friday at 9am Eastern Time at FreeAndOpenMind.com (redirects to our YouTube channel).

In this episode of the Free & Open Mind Podcast, hosts Hardy Brooklyn (life & business coach, Brooklyn, NY) and Stan Nelson (moving forward & goal success coach, Perth, Australia) explore the art of being yourself and how creativity can literally save and reshape a life.Hardy shares his powerful journey from a burned-out tech consultant to body-painted performance artist, burlesque performer, and life coach—and how art helped him recover from medical trauma, addiction to prescription meds, and a career that was destroying his body. (Note: video includes reference to self-harm.)You’ll hear about: • How music and the live music community helped Hardy through serious medical challenges • The life-changing experience of being body-painted on stage and publicly embraced—even by the police • Using art to reduce stress, calm an ADHD/ADD brain, and reconnect with your body • Moving from perfectionism in tech to permission and play in art • How Hardy now integrates art into his coaching practice - Doodling as subconscious journaling - Photography and noticing what draws your eye - Collaging to understand workplace dynamics and emotions • Why mental health support and therapy are not taboo and how Hardy’s beliefs shifted • What improv really is (hint: it’s about “yes, and…,” presence, and acceptance—not just being funny) • Practical tips to start an art practice even if you “aren’t an artist” - 5–6 minute “micro sessions” instead of forcing an hour - Coloring books, clay, sketch pads, photo apps, and more • How art brings play, curiosity, and authentic expression back into adult lifeHardy also shares a sneak peek of a satirical performance piece he’s developing with an AI engineer about the future of AI and human connection.Key takeaway:Art isn’t about perfection or talent—it’s a tool for happiness, nervous system regulation, self-discovery, and authentic living. From rearranging your furniture (feng shui) to choosing colors that feel right on your body, you are constantly creating art in your life.

In this episode of the Free and Open Mind Podcast, hosts Hardy Brooklyn from Brooklyn, NY, and Stan Nelson from Perth, Western Australia, sit down with life and wellness coach Paul Lennander to explore what it truly means to live an authentic life — especially as a gay man growing up in a world that didn’t feel accepting.Paul shares his powerful journey of realizing he was gay at a young age in a large Irish Catholic family, and the years he spent people-pleasing, code-switching, and disconnecting from his true self. He opens up about: - Growing up knowing he was gay but feeling he shouldn’t be - The impact of trying to be who others wanted him to be instead of who he really was - The anxiety, panic attacks, and constant fight-or-flight response that came from hiding his identity - How coming out at 28 led to surprising acceptance from his father and familyThe conversation goes deep into the connection between authenticity, nervous system regulation, and sexual health. Paul, now a certified breath-work facilitator working mainly with gay and bisexual men, explains: - Why nervous system dysregulation makes it hard to “live in your body” - How this disconnection can show up as sexual dysfunction or performance challenges - Why he focuses on breath-work, mindset, and communication (rather than just medication) to support sexual functioning - The importance of being able to clearly communicate desires, needs, and boundaries in sexual situationsHardy also shares his own experience of living out of alignment as a high-powered consultant and how that stress showed up physically — particularly in his shoulder. He talks about: - How breath-work and stretching (especially around the pelvic area) unexpectedly improved his shoulder pain - Transitioning from multiple prescription drugs to natural anti-inflammatory supports like turmeric, ginger, and garlic, together with breath practices - Reconnecting with “childlike” movement (like deep squats) and how that, paired with breathing, accelerated his healingTogether, they offer practical tools and insights for anyone wanting to live more authentically: - Focusing on what truly brings you joy, your hopes, and what you actually can control - Letting go of trying to control other people’s reactions or expectations - Using breathing techniques to regulate your nervous system, including: - Longer exhales than inhales (aiming for the exhale to be at least twice as long) - Inhale through the nose, exhale through the mouth to support calm and regulationPaul emphasizes that the desire to live an authentic life is a universal human experience, not just an LGBTQ+ one — and that learning these tools earlier in life can save years of pain and disconnection.Where to find our guests and hosts: Paul Lennander (Life & Wellness Coach) Website: inspiredaction.org Instagram: @inspiredactionatelier Facebook: Paul Lennander Life and Wellness Coaching Hardy Brooklyn (Leonard Shostak) – Life & Business Coach, Brooklyn, NY Website: boxofrain.com Stan Nelson – Moving Forward & Goal Success Coach (Perth, WA) Website: coachingwithstan.com.au

Welcome to the Free & Open Mind Podcast – where real people from all walks of life get honest about authentic living, relationships, and becoming who you truly are.We go live every Friday around 9:00 AM Eastern Time, sharing: • Candid conversations about love, boundaries, and authentic relationships • Real-life stories about breaking free from family conditioning and old expectations • Practical tips for communicating your needs, love languages, and boundaries • Honest talk about what it means to grow at your own pace – even when your partner, friends, or family aren’t growing with youIn this episode, Hardy Brooklyn (life & business coach from Brooklyn, NY) and Stan Nelson (Moving Forward with Stan) dive into: • What it really means to show up authentically in your relationships • How to deal with misaligned interests (like different tastes in art, hobbies, or lifestyle) • Why space, curiosity, and communication matter more than being “perfectly aligned” • How to love someone 100% as yourself without trying to change their 100%You’ll hear stories about: • Navigating different paces of personal growth in a relationship • Using acts of service (like morning coffee and fresh bread) as a love language • Moving from a “supposed to” life (big tech, big expectations) to performance art, purple hair, and radical authenticityIf you’re tired of pretending, shrinking, or playing a role just to keep the peace, this podcast is your permission slip to: • Speak your truth; • Love without losing yourself; • Show up as the most real version of you.🔔 Subscribe to Free & Open Mind for weekly conversations on authenticity, love, and living life on your own terms.🌐 Catch past episodes at freeandopenmind.com💬 Drop a comment: What does authentic love mean to you? Where do you feel most mismatched in your relationships – and how are you handling it?

In this episode of the Free and Open Mind Podcast, life and business coach Hardy Brooklyn (Leonard Shostak) from Brooklyn, New York, and Moving Forward coach Stan Nelson from Perth, Western Australia, dive deep into Valentine’s Day expectations, boundaries, and consent.Valentine’s Day can bring joy, pressure, and confusion—especially around what we “should” do, what we expect from our partners, and how far we push boundaries. Leonard and Stan unpack how to navigate all of this in a way that’s healthy, honest, and sustainable for your relationship.In this episode, we explore: Expectations vs. Reality on Valentine’s Day • How unrealistic fantasies set you up for disappointment • Why your recent relationship dynamic matters more than the date on the calendar Love Languages & Setting Expectations • How the five love languages (words of affirmation, quality time, receiving gifts, acts of service, physical touch) shape what feels romantic • Why planning Valentine’s Day based on your partner’s love language — not yours — changes everything • Examples of shifting plans based on your partner’s actual needs and mood Boundaries, Consent & Altered States • Why consent cannot truly be given under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or even intense adrenaline/euphoria • How this applies to BDSM, parties, marathons, high-energy events, and more • The critical truth that consent can be withdrawn at any time, for any reason, without explanation Surprises, Public Gestures, & Social Pressure • The risks of big public surprises (like Jumbotron proposals) when you haven’t checked in with your partner • Understanding your partner’s comfort with public displays of affection versus private intimacy • How a “grand romantic gesture” can turn into a long-term resentment if it violates boundaries Real-Life Stories & Lessons • Leonard’s personal experience of taking someone to a party that was outside their comfort zone • A client story about a boundary violation that went unresolved for decades and what that did to the relationship • The “backpack full of rocks” metaphor for carrying old hurts vs. choosing lighter expectations Practical Ways to Prep for Valentine’s Day • How to “prep the next step” instead of expecting instant intimacy • Using active listening and your partner’s love language to turn a likely “no” into a genuine “hell yes!” • Choosing activities that are a little edgy but still within your partner’s boundariesKey Takeaways: • Talk early and often: Don’t wait until the night of Valentine’s Day to share what you want. • Match your partner’s reality: Check in with how your relationship has been recently before planning big events. • Center consent and safety: Never rely on intoxication or emotional highs to “get to yes.” • Respect boundaries: Pushing boundaries without agreement creates long-lasting damage and emotional “baggage.” • Aim for “hell yes”: Focus on mutual enthusiasm, not pressured compliance.About the Hosts:Hardy Brooklyn (Leonard Shostak)Life and business coach from Brooklyn, New York, helping people identify what feels inauthentic in their lives and create a path toward a happier, healthier, and more authentic life.Stan Nelson“Moving Forward” coach from Perth, Western Australia, supporting people to move through stuck points, clarify what they want, and take grounded steps forward.🔴 Watch us live every Friday at 9:00 AM New York time🎥 Catch past episodes and more content at: freeandopenmind.comIf you found this episode helpful: 👍 Like the video 💬 Comment with your experiences around Valentine’s Day expectations and boundaries 🔔 Subscribe to the channel for more conversations on authentic living, relationships, and personal growth

Are you loving in a way that feels true to you—or just going through the motions? In this episode of the Free & Open Mind Podcast, hosts Hardy Brooklyn (life and business coach based in Brooklyn, NY) and Stan Nelson (relationship coach from Perth, Australia) unpack what it really means to love and live authentically.They explore: • How to use the 5 Love Languages as a starting point, not a box • Why you and your partner can share the same love language but mean totally different things • Real-life examples of navigating mismatched love languages • Setting and communicating boundaries without sounding controlling • Choosing everyday moments of love instead of relying on grand gestures • How living authentically impacts your energy, mood, and relationshipsYou’ll hear Hardy share candid stories about his marriage, how he and his wife found overlap in their love languages, and how timing, consent, and clear communication turned potential conflict into deeper connection.If you’ve ever felt unseen, misunderstood, or “not quite right” in your relationships, this episode will give you practical ideas and language to: • Understand your own needs more clearly • Communicate them without conflict • Meet your partner where they are—without losing yourself👉 CALL TO ACTION:If this conversation resonates with you: • Like this video to support the show! • Subscribe to the Free & Open Mind podcast for new episodes every Friday at 9am Eastern Time. • Comment below: What does living authentically mean to you? • Share this episode with someone who’s exploring their own authentic path.🔗 Connect with us: • Free & Open Mind podcast & past episodes: freeandopenmind.com • Work with Hardy (life & business coaching): based in Brooklyn, NY – helping you find your path to a happier, more rewarding life • Work with Stan: coachingwithstan.com.auLet this be your invitation to start loving—and living—more authentically.👤 About the HostsHardy BrooklynLife and business coach based in Brooklyn, New York. Hardy helps individuals who feel something’s “just not right” figure out how to reconnect their path to a healthier, happier, more rewarding journey. Website & Newsletter: https://boxofrain.com Link: https://www.bor.bz Linktree: https://linktr.ee/hardybrooklynStanMoving forward and goal success coach from Perth, Western Australia. Stan helps people who feel stuck start living extraordinary lives with clarity, momentum, and aligned goals. Website & Blog: https://coachingwithstan.com.au🔴 Watch Live & Catch Past EpisodesThe Free & Open Mind Podcast streams live every Friday at 9:00 AM Eastern Time. Watch live and find past episodes: https://freeandopenmind.com (Redirects to the YouTube channel and the archive of past episodes.)We feature guests from all walks of life who openly share about authentic living, identity, transformation, and personal growth.💬 Join the ConversationWe encourage you to: Ask questions in the live chat and comments Share your own experiences with authenticity, motherhood, identity, and big life transitions Suggest future guests or topics you’d love to see on the show👍 Support the ShowIf this conversation resonates with you: Like this video Subscribe to the channel Comment with your biggest takeaway from CC’s story Share this episode with someone who needs encouragement to live more authenticallyYour support helps us reach more people who are ready to live with a Free & Open Mind.

In this episode of the Free & Open Mind Podcast, hosts Hardy Brooklyn and Stan Nelson dive deep into one of the most important skills for authentic living: setting and holding boundaries in the workplace.Using a real-life story about a confusing presentation request, Hardy explains how clear boundaries around time, expectations, and communication protect your professional reputation, your energy, and your personal life.We explore: 💼 Workplace Boundaries • How unclear expectations around a presentation (time, length, audience, focus) can derail your work • Why saying “I cannot commit until I have this information” is both professional and necessary 🧠 Coaching & Client Boundaries • Why Hardy requires payment up front and completed intake forms before starting coaching • How boundaries show whether clients are truly committing to themselves • Using empowering language like “I’m not comfortable proceeding without…” instead of blaming others ⏰ Time & Communication Boundaries • Setting clear business hours for emails, texts, and messages • Using tools like “Send Later” so you don’t train clients to expect 24/7 access • How responding outside your agreed-upon hours slowly erodes your boundaries 🧩 Practical First Steps • Simple boundaries you can start using today (e.g., no interruptions during focused work or personal time) • Why repetition and consistency are key to making boundaries stick • How healthier boundaries lead to better well-being, stronger relationships, and more authentic living Boundaries aren’t walls—they’re filters and fences you can open and close, so you can show up as your best self.If you’re tired of work overrunning your evenings, weekends, and family time, this conversation will give you clear language, real examples, and practical steps to start protecting your time, money, and energy today.Work with us… Coaching with Hardy (Leonard Shostak): 🌐 boxofrain.com Coaching with Stan (Stan Nelson): 🌐 coachingwithstan.com.au

In this episode of The Free and Open Mind Podcast, Hardy Brooklyn (Leonard Shostak) and Stan Nelson dive into the art of active listening — a core coaching skill that can transform your relationships, your work, and your everyday conversations.We explore:What active listening really is (beyond just “hearing” someone)Why interrupting and “waiting for your turn to talk” kills real connectionHow to handle those silent pauses without rushing to fill the spaceThe role of eye contact, body language, and non-verbal cuesWhy taking notes helps you stay present and catch what’s not being saidThe impact of ADHD, ASD, anxiety, and depression on listening—and how to support people who experience themHow to avoid unsolicited advice, assumptions, and “one-up” storytellingA simple, practical one-skill challenge you can start using this weekFocus fully on the other person (phone away, distractions off);Paraphrase or repeat back what they’ve said to confirm you’ve understood;Notice how it changes the quality of the interaction. “There’s a big difference between listening and waiting for your turn to talk.”This week’s practice:Pick one conversation and:Let us know how it went—comment below with your experience practicing active listening.Connect with us: Hardy Brooklyn (Leonard Shostak) – Coaching & more: 🌐 https://www.boxofrain.com Stan Nelson – Coaching with Stan: 🌐 https://coachingwithstan.com.au

Are you making decent money but still feeling broke, stressed, or stuck? In this episode of Free & Open Mind, Hardy Brooklyn sits down with Andre Jensen of Canoosa Finance to talk about money, mindset, and what it really means to live life on your terms — without being controlled by your finances.Andre shares his journey from a diverse mix of jobs across the U.S. and Canada to becoming a money mindset and financial durability coach. He explains how he helps clients who earn “enough” but still live paycheck to paycheck, constantly wondering where their money went and feeling anxious every time a bill or tax notice shows up.You’ll hear about: • What it really means to live life on your terms (not your job’s, not your bills’) • Why many people who make good money are still broke at the end of the month • Simple mindset shifts like “Did I get my money’s worth?” and paying yourself first • The difference between emotional spending (donuts, coffee, little treats) and intentional spending • How to become more liquid than a typical millionaire by building cash buffers • Practical tools: tracking every dollar for a month, carrying pocket cash, and building bill coverage months ahead • How reducing financial stress opens the door to living more authentically, instead of reacting to money emergenciesIf you’ve ever thought, “I make okay money—so why am I always stressed about it?,” this episode will give you new ways to think about cash flow, spending, and building a healthier relationship with money.Connect with Andre (Canoosa Finance) Website: https://canoosa.com Social: @canoosafinance on major platformsCall to ActionIf this conversation helped you rethink your relationship with money: • Subscribe to Free & Open Mind for more honest conversations about living life authentically. • Like this video to help others discover it. • Comment below: What’s one money habit you’re going to change after watching this? • Share this episode with a friend or entrepreneur who’s making money but still feeling financially stuck.Let’s keep building a world where more people are financially durable and free to live authentically on their own terms.