#242 The Challenges of Being in Survival Mode

The Expansive

#Business #Self-Improvement #South Africa #Entrepreneur #Podcasting Education #The Expanse

42:14

Episode Description: Jessica B. Harris may have been born and raised in New York City, but she has Tennessee roots through her father and has spent much of her life split between homes in the Northeast and the South – specifically New Orleans. For more than fifty years, she has been a college professor, a writer, and a lecturer, and her many books have earned her a reputation as an authority on food of the African Diaspora, as well as a lifetime achievement award from the James Beard Foundation. A few years back, Netflix adapted her book, High on the Hog: A Culinary Journey from Africa to America , into a 4 part docuseries. And I’m very proud to say that she’s a longtime contributor to Southern Living with a regular column called The Welcome Table. This episode was recorded in the Southern Living Birmingham studios, and Sid and Jessica talked about her mother’s signature mac and cheese, the cast-iron skillet she’d be sure to save if ever her house were on fire, and her dear friend, the late New Orleans chef Leah Chase. For more info visit: southernliving.com/biscuitsandjam Biscuits & Jam is produced by : Sid Evans - Editor-in-Chief, Southern Living Krissy Tiglias - GM, Southern Living Lottie Leymarie - Executive Producer Michael Onufrak - Audio Engineer/Producer Jeremiah McVay - Producer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices…

about a year ago 38:55

MP3•Episode home

In this episode of The Expansive, John Sanei and Erik Kruger dive into the complexities of emotional health, exploring the concept of the 'pain body' as described by Eckhart Tolle. They discuss the challenges of navigating survival mode, the importance of holding space for oneself and others, and why expressing emotions is a crucial part of growth.

The conversation then shifts to the themes of wisdom, curiosity, and the paradox of insight—how it can be both a gift and a curse, leading to perfectionism and self-judgment. John and Erik explore the balance between mind and heart, the power of adaptability in a fast-changing world, and the importance of softening towards personal challenges rather than constantly trying to fix them. They also examine how our beliefs shape our perceptions and actions, ultimately influencing how we move through life.

Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on emotional resilience, self-awareness, and the mindset shifts needed to navigate an ever-evolving world.

Hello! Please like and subscribe to our channel and leave us a comment! We love hearing from our listeners and we thank you for being apart of our community!

Socials:

Instagram: @theexpansivepodcast

X: @theexpansivepod

Linkedin: The Expansive Podcast

Tik Tok: theexpansivepodcast

250 episodes

#242 The Challenges of Being in Survival Mode

The Expansive

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on emotional resilience, self-awareness, and the mindset shifts needed to navigate an ever-evolving world.

Hello! Please like and subscribe to our channel and leave us a comment! We love hearing from our listeners and we thank you for being apart of our community!

Socials:

Instagram: @theexpansivepodcast

X: @theexpansivepod

Linkedin: The Expansive Podcast

Tik Tok: theexpansivepodcast

250 episodes

#Business #Self-Improvement #South Africa #Entrepreneur #Podcasting Education #The Expanse

All episodes

The Expansive

1
#249: What John learnt from Zach Bush 39:55

9 days ago39:55

39:55

Takeaways The book launch marks a significant milestone in their journey. Friendship and collaboration have been key to their success. The concept of sovereignty is central to personal empowerment. Breathwork can lead to profound emotional and spiritual experiences. Understanding parental roles can shift personal perspectives. Women over 50 are seen as powerful and wise. Nature's intelligence plays a crucial role in our lives. Personal growth often involves releasing expectations from parents. The journey of authorship is intertwined with personal identity. Consciousness studies can lead to deeper self-awareness. Everything is emitting some type of frequency. Visualization of communication begins the communication process. Certainty can lead to stagnation. Men are meant to witness and support women. Women often take on the role of protectors in society. Conditional love can hinder relationships. Zach Bush is running for president in four years. Costa Rica is a land of perpetual peace and sustainability. Seeking out the best teachers is crucial for personal growth. Being open to different perspectives fosters adaptability. Hello! Please like and subscribe to our channel and leave us a comment! We love hearing from our listeners and we thank you for being apart of our community! Socials: Instagram: @theexpansivepodcast X: @theexpansivepod Linkedin: The Expansive Podcast Tik Tok: theexpansivepodcast…

The Expansive

1
#248 Why relationships fail (and how to make them succeed) 41:49

29 days ago41:49

41:49

Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast Journey 03:50 Vulnerability in Relationships 05:44 Exploring Attachment Styles 11:25 Understanding Relationship Dynamics 16:44 The Four Attachment Styles 22:31 Navigating Disorganized Attachment 22:52 Navigating Emotional Triggers in Relationships 24:47 Understanding Attachment Styles 26:50 The Impact of Communication in Relationships 29:43 The Struggle with Vulnerability and Power Dynamics 32:19 The Journey of Self-Awareness and Healing 35:33 Embracing the Process of Learning and Growth 39:44 Finding Meaning in Small Gestures of Love Hello! Please like and subscribe to our channel and leave us a comment! We love hearing from our listeners and we thank you for being apart of our community! Socials: Instagram: @theexpansivepodcast X: @theexpansivepod Linkedin: The Expansive Podcast Tik Tok: theexpansivepodcast…

The Expansive

1
A chapter from our new book - Expansive 7:49

5 weeks ago7:49

7:49

Our new book is now available and moving forward we'll share some of the chapters here with our listeners. In this solo episode, Erik kicks us off. Hello! Please like and subscribe to our channel and leave us a comment! We love hearing from our listeners and we thank you for being apart of our community! Socials: Instagram: @theexpansivepodcast X: @theexpansivepod Linkedin: The Expansive Podcast Tik Tok: theexpansivepodcast…

The Expansive

1
#246 Leadership Skills for AI & Secrets to Longevity 42:12

7 weeks ago42:12

42:12

In this episode of the Expansive Podcast, Erik Kruger and John Sanei delve into various themes including attachment styles in relationships, insights from the FIBO Health Expo, secrets of longevity, the role of relationships in longevity, and the evolving landscape of leadership in the age of AI. They explore how emotional intelligence and community connections contribute to a longer, healthier life, and discuss the importance of curiosity and collaboration in effective leadership. In this conversation, John Sanei and Erik Kruger explore the evolving relationship between humans and AI, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence, diverse perspectives, and the balance between efficiency and care in utilizing AI. They discuss the iceberg problem of mastery versus superficial peaks created by AI, the potential for learned helplessness, and the future of creativity in an AI-driven world. The dialogue encourages listeners to focus on curiosity and genuine engagement rather than mere output. Hello! Please like and subscribe to our channel and leave us a comment! We love hearing from our listeners and we thank you for being apart of our community! Socials: Instagram: @theexpansivepodcast X: @theexpansivepod Linkedin: The Expansive Podcast Tik Tok: theexpansivepodcast…

The Expansive

1
#245 The Importance of Counter Intuitive Thinking with Richard Mulholland 55:08

8 weeks ago55:08

55:08

Richard Mulholland joins the Expansive Podcast as a guest host alongside John (with Eric joining later), discussing Richard's new book "Relentless Relevance," which explores how to stay appropriate to the matter at hand in a rapidly changing world. Throughout the conversation, they explore the journey from youthful arrogance to mature humility, the importance of creating "safe havens" and "escape hatches" in life, and Richard's personal experience of questioning his relevance after turning 50. The discussion weaves through various topics including the difference between counter-narrative thinking versus being contrarian, the value of genuine standing ovations, and the definition of relevance as "the state of being appropriate to the matter at hand." The episode concludes with information about Richard's book availability and upcoming launches. #TheExpansivePodcast Hello! Please like and subscribe to our channel and leave us a comment! We love hearing from our listeners and we thank you for being apart of our community! Socials: Instagram: @theexpansivepodcast X: @theexpansivepod Linkedin: The Expansive Podcast Tik Tok: theexpansivepodcast…

The Expansive

1
#244 We Wrote a Book?! 37:23

10 weeks ago37:23

37:23

In this episode of The Expansive Podcast , Erik Kruger and John Sanei dive into the intersection of creativity and AI, explore the evolving landscape of leadership, and share a major announcement about their upcoming book. Expect a conversation packed with deep insights, thought-provoking debates, and a fresh perspective on personal and professional growth. Episode Highlights: 🔥 Big News! Erik and John unveil their forthcoming book, launching in May 2025. Drawing from 250+ podcast episodes, this book distills their best ideas into 52 powerful essays designed to help you live and lead with clarity, creativity, and courage. 🎨 Creativity vs. AI – Does using AI tools like ChatGPT count as true creativity? Erik argues for the importance of original thought, while John explores how disruption fuels the evolution of creative expression. 🧠 Leadership & Healing – John introduces the concept of the "pain body" in leadership, unpacking how unprocessed emotional baggage influences decision-making and team dynamics. The hosts discuss various healing modalities, from meditation to psychedelics. 🐕 The “Knobs to Dogs” Philosophy – How can we treat difficult people with the same compassion we show to our pets? Erik and John explore this mindset shift and the challenge of applying insights gained from transformative experiences. 💡 Self-Compassion & Growth – John emphasizes the importance of patience in personal growth, reframing change as a process of befriending yourself rather than forcing transformation through self-criticism. The hosts also tease future episodes featuring AI-generated questions and invite listeners to keep an eye out for their book launch events in Johannesburg, Dubai, and Cape Town. 🎧 Tune in now and expand your thinking! Hello! Please like and subscribe to our channel and leave us a comment! We love hearing from our listeners and we thank you for being apart of our community! Socials: Instagram: @theexpansivepodcast X: @theexpansivepod Linkedin: The Expansive Podcast Tik Tok: theexpansivepodcast…

The Expansive

1
#243 MASTERCLASS: CHARISMA 30:40

11 weeks ago30:40

30:40

Episode Overview In this episode, John Sanei and Erik Kruger dive deep into the essence of charisma, exploring what truly makes someone magnetic and influential beyond surface-level charm. Key Takeaways Charisma is not about being smooth or charming, but about genuine presence, depth, and internal strength. The hosts break down six critical components of developing true charisma: 1. Unshakable Confidence Confidence stems from feeling safe internally Practice internal dialogue that reassures: "No matter what happens, I'll be okay" Build confidence through doing hard things and developing self-respect 2. Character Over Reputation Focus on being solid, not looking good The truth always outlasts illusion Avoid virtual signaling and stay true to your core values Don't feel compelled to defend yourself constantly 3. Radical Integrity Develop honesty as a power move Build trust through consistent behavior over time Make peace with yourself by being genuine Recognize that long-term relationships are built on consistent character 4. Zero Need to Convince Magnetic people don't chase approval State your truth and let it land Avoid getting drawn into unnecessary arguments Understand that not everyone needs to agree with you 5. Purpose in Action Follow your curiosity and excitement Communicate your mission openly and clearly Stay aligned with your personal genius Recognize the difference between charm and genuine flow 6. Humanize Everything Compliment freely Embrace vulnerability Understand that perfection is boring, and flaws create connection Be willing to show your authentic self, including your quirks and insecurities Notable Quotes "Charisma is not about charm. It's about presence, depth, and the energy that makes people lean in to listening to you." "When you arrive into a room, are you giving people a remote control or a manual?" "The better storyteller you are, the more momentum you'll build around your message." Practical Takeaway Charisma is not a trick but a way of being. It requires: Internal work Self-awareness Empathy Calm energy Vulnerability Connect with Us: Subscribe to The Expansive: link.chtbl.com/expansive LinkedIn: Expansive Podcast LinkedIn YouTube: Expansive Podcast Playlist Instagram: @theexpansivepodcast TikTok: @theexpansivepodcast Connect with John Sanei: Instagram: @johnsanei LinkedIn: John Sanei Connect with Erik Kruger: Instagram: @erik_kruger LinkedIn: Erik Kruger Call to Action: If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to rate and review our podcast! Share your thoughts and feedback with us on social media or drop us a message at robyn@theexpansive.com Hello! Please like and subscribe to our channel and leave us a comment! We love hearing from our listeners and we thank you for being apart of our community! Socials: Instagram: @theexpansivepodcast X: @theexpansivepod Linkedin: The Expansive Podcast Tik Tok: theexpansivepodcast…

The Expansive

1
#242 The Challenges of Being in Survival Mode 38:55

13 weeks ago38:55

38:55

In this episode of The Expansive , John Sanei and Erik Kruger dive into the complexities of emotional health, exploring the concept of the 'pain body' as described by Eckhart Tolle. They discuss the challenges of navigating survival mode, the importance of holding space for oneself and others, and why expressing emotions is a crucial part of growth. The conversation then shifts to the themes of wisdom, curiosity, and the paradox of insight—how it can be both a gift and a curse, leading to perfectionism and self-judgment. John and Erik explore the balance between mind and heart, the power of adaptability in a fast-changing world, and the importance of softening towards personal challenges rather than constantly trying to fix them. They also examine how our beliefs shape our perceptions and actions, ultimately influencing how we move through life. Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion on emotional resilience, self-awareness, and the mindset shifts needed to navigate an ever-evolving world. Hello! Please like and subscribe to our channel and leave us a comment! We love hearing from our listeners and we thank you for being apart of our community! Socials: Instagram: @theexpansivepodcast X: @theexpansivepod Linkedin: The Expansive Podcast Tik Tok: theexpansivepodcast…

The Expansive

1
#241 The Custodian Archetype and How to Embody it. 45:04

14 weeks ago45:04

45:04

CTA: Visit your nearest PostNet to get a Credit Report today! In this episode of The Expansive Podcast , Erik Kruger and John Sanei dive into two powerful concepts shaping personal growth and self-mastery. First, they explore John's newly released meditation series, Future Memories . They discuss how meditation can help cultivate emotional states that align with desired future outcomes, rather than being trapped by past experiences. The conversation highlights the importance of incremental growth, feeling safe in transformation, and embodying confidence and victory in personal development. Next, they unpack the idea of custodianship —a mindset of care and responsibility rather than mere ownership. From money and relationships to self-judgment, they explore how being a custodian fosters deeper connection and intention in all areas of life. They also discuss the power of softening judgment, expressing appreciation before it’s too late, and leading with kindness. Join Erik and John for a thought-provoking discussion filled with personal reflections, actionable insights, and a fresh perspective on shaping your future with intention. #theexpansive #podcast #apva #podcastoftheyear #businesspodcast #mindfullness #podcastsonselfdevelopment #howtobebetter #howtolevelup #thinkbig #growthmindset Shownotes footer: Connect with Us: Subscribe to The Expansive: link.chtbl.com/expansive LinkedIn: Expansive Podcast LinkedIn YouTube: Expansive Podcast Playlist Instagram: @theexpansivepodcast TikTok: @theexpansivepodcast Connect with John Sanei: Instagram: @johnsanei LinkedIn: John Sanei Connect with Erik Kruger: Instagram: @erik_kruge Hello! Please like and subscribe to our channel and leave us a comment! We love hearing from our listeners and we thank you for being apart of our community! Socials: Instagram: @theexpansivepodcast X: @theexpansivepod Linkedin: The Expansive Podcast Tik Tok: theexpansivepodcast…

The Expansive

1
The Power of Patience: Why Measuring Reps, Not Results, Is Key to Success 35:30

15 weeks ago35:30

35:30

John and Erik dive into the importance of patience in achieving success and how our expectations and measurements can either empower or sabotage our progress. Key takeaways from this episode: John shares examples of successful people who faced numerous rejections before achieving breakthrough success: Mr. Beast uploaded 455 videos before gaining significant traction Gary Vaynerchuk posted 1,000 wine videos before getting discovered Colonel Sanders pitched KFC 1,009 times before getting a yes J.K. Rowling faced 12 rejections before Harry Potter was published The Beatles were rejected by four record labels and honed their skills playing in German clubs for years Walt Disney heard 300 "no's" before Mickey Mouse became successful The hosts explore how impatience is often a form of entitlement, where we expect results without putting in the necessary work or time. Erik shares his personal experience with content creation, including a video that got 90,000 views followed by several that received only a few hundred views, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the algorithm. The most valuable insight: Change what you measure. Instead of focusing on views, followers, or immediate results, measure the number of reps (videos created, workouts completed, etc.) – things that are within your control. John discusses his upcoming meditation series and the importance of emotional states, noting that what we really seek in achievements like "$10 million" are specific feelings: victory, safety, confidence, and freedom. The conversation concludes with the hosts celebrating a heartwarming email from a listener in Portugal who adopted a dog after being inspired by the podcast – a reminder that impact often happens in ways we don't measure. Subscribe to The Expansive: link.chtbl.com/expansive Hello! Please like and subscribe to our channel and leave us a comment! We love hearing from our listeners and we thank you for being apart of our community! Socials: Instagram: @theexpansivepodcast X: @theexpansivepod Linkedin: The Expansive Podcast Tik Tok: theexpansivepodcast…

The Expansive

1
#239 Rituals, Intentionality, and the Future of Work 47:33

16 weeks ago47:33

47:33

In this episode of The Expansive , John Sanei and Erik Kruger dive into the power of rituals and their role in modern life. They explore the contrast between rituals and habits, sharing personal experiences with smoking, San Pedro ceremonies in Peru, and the ancient practices of the Temple of the Moon. The conversation then shifts to the balance between optimization and mindfulness, the backlash against hustle culture, and the importance of patience. John and Erik also discuss the realities of building a career as a speaker, the role of speaker bureaus, and why personal branding is essential in today’s AI-driven world. Key Takeaways: 🔹 Rituals offer a deeper sense of connection than everyday habits. 🔹 Smoking has cultural and spiritual significance beyond its modern stigma. 🔹 San Pedro ceremonies can be emotionally transformative experiences. 🔹 Ancient rituals, like those at the Temple of the Moon, held deep meaning in their time. 🔹 Over-optimization can lead to burnout—slowness and mindfulness are key. 🔹 The backlash against hustle culture highlights the value of patience. 🔹 Becoming a successful speaker requires consistent effort and personal branding. 🔹 AI is augmenting, not replacing, jobs—adaptation is key. Notable Quotes: 🗣️ "Tobacco is a very sacred plant." 🗣️ "I was sobbing, uncontrollably sobbing." 🗣️ "Optimize my creativity in the morning." 🗣️ "There's been a backlash to hustle culture." 🗣️ "The biggest companies spend billions on marketing." 🗣️ "AI is augmenting jobs, not automating jobs." Chapters: 00:00 – The Ritual of Smoking and Its Cultural Significance 02:14 – Experiencing San Pedro: A Journey in Peru 09:53 – The Temple of the Moon: Ancient Rituals and Sacrifices 16:04 – Rituals vs. Habits: The Importance of Intentionality 22:37 – Optimizing Life: The Balance Between Efficiency and Calmness 31:35 – The Backlash Against Hustle Culture 32:49 – The Luxury of Patience and Calmness 33:46 – The Realities of Becoming a Speaker 36:30 – The Role of Speaker Bureaus 39:42 – Building Relationships in Speaking 40:54 – The Importance of Marketing Yourself 42:44 – The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Work 🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Connect with Us: Subscribe to The Expansive: link.chtbl.com/expansive Hello! Please like and subscribe to our channel and leave us a comment! We love hearing from our listeners and we thank you for being apart of our community! Socials: Instagram: @theexpansivepodcast X: @theexpansivepod Linkedin: The Expansive Podcast Tik Tok: theexpansivepodcast…

The Expansive

1
#238 Erik Kruger Masterclass: Transformational Leadership 2025 Edition 56:02

17 weeks ago56:02

56:02

Click the link. to listen to the latest Investec Episode on the 2025 South African Budget Speech: https://www.investec.com/en_za/focus/no-ordinary-wednesday-with-jeremy-maggs.html 2025 brings three key themes—tension, transformation, and transcendence. To thrive, leaders must navigate change with intentionality, foster psychological safety, and embrace transformational leadership. The overwhelming access to information fuels turbulence, making collaboration and open communication more critical than ever. In this episode, we explore: The leadership behaviors that drive team engagement and performance. Why psychological safety is essential for high-performing teams. How transformational leaders inspire and support change. The power of self-awareness, vulnerability, and intellectual stimulation. Tune in to discover how leaders can create an environment where growth, innovation, and resilience thrive. Hello! Please like and subscribe to our channel and leave us a comment! We love hearing from our listeners and we thank you for being apart of our community! Socials: Instagram: @theexpansivepodcast X: @theexpansivepod Linkedin: The Expansive Podcast Tik Tok: theexpansivepodcast…

The Expansive

1
#237 The Art of Recalibration 33:46

18 weeks ago33:46

33:46

In this episode of The Expansive , John Sanei and Erik Kruger dive into the evolving landscape of the creative economy, discussing how authenticity and recalibration play a crucial role in personal and professional growth. They explore the shift from influencer culture to a more creator-driven economy, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness in navigating change. The conversation highlights the art of recalibration as a powerful tool for aligning actions with goals, while also underscoring the significance of mindfulness and adaptability in achieving long-term success. Key Takeways: The creative economy is on the rise, presenting new opportunities for individuals. Authenticity is essential to standing out in a saturated market. Recalibration is necessary for aligning actions with goals. Self-awareness helps identify when we drift off course. Mindfulness plays a crucial role in the recalibration process. Change doesn’t need to be rushed; small, consistent shifts can be highly effective. Focusing energy properly helps navigate distractions and achieve goals. The influencer economy is evolving into a creator-driven landscape. Understanding personal desires leads to more authentic goal setting. Building relationships through authenticity enhances engagement. Sound Bites: "The influencer economy is over." "The creative economy is picking up." "Authenticity makes you unique." "You need to catch yourself drifting." "Change doesn’t have to be rushed." "Mindfulness is key to recalibration." Episode Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction and Paddle Game Banter 03:04 – The Rise of the Creative Economy 05:59 – Influencers vs. Creators: A New Paradigm 09:00 – The Art of Recalibration 11:54 – Self-Awareness and Drift Signals 14:57 – Navigating Change and Adaptability 17:59 – Mindfulness in Recalibration 20:59 – The Importance of Authenticity 24:06 – Conclusion and Future Insights Hello! Please like and subscribe to our channel and leave us a comment! We love hearing from our listeners and we thank you for being apart of our community! Socials: Instagram: @theexpansivepodcast X: @theexpansivepod Linkedin: The Expansive Podcast Tik Tok: theexpansivepodcast…

The Expansive

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#236 Simplifying AI, Emotional Intelligence, and Embracing ‘Let Them’ 36:52

20 weeks ago36:52

36:52

In this week’s episode of The Expansive Podcast , John Sanei and Erik Kruger dive into three transformative themes: personal development, the rise of artificial intelligence, and why emotional intelligence matters more than ever. The conversation kicks off with Mel Robbins’ powerful concept, the ‘Let Them’ Theory , which challenges us to stop chasing validation and instead focus on our own self-worth. John and Erik share their personal takes on letting go of the need to control others’ opinions—and how freeing it can be when you do. From there, they shift gears to tackle the big buzzword of our time: AI. John and Erik break it down for business leaders, cutting through the jargon to emphasize why a simpler understanding of AI can lead to smarter decisions in the boardroom. They explore how AI is reshaping workplaces and why leaders need to focus on creating adaptive, resilient organizations for the future. But here’s the twist: It’s not just about tech. It’s about people. John and Erik highlight how healing past traumas can free up the mental space needed for innovation. Because at the end of the day, they argue, the future isn’t just about AI—it’s about human consciousness and adaptability. Expect insights, practical takeaways, and a reminder that simplicity and self-awareness are the ultimate business superpowers. Key Themes Discussed: Why Mel Robbins’ ‘Let Them’ Theory is a game-changer for personal growth Demystifying AI: How business leaders can embrace it without getting overwhelmed The connection between healing, innovation, and creating future-ready organizations Takeaway Quote: "Complexity kills execution. Simplify to succeed." Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you stream your shows. Hello! Please like and subscribe to our channel and leave us a comment! We love hearing from our listeners and we thank you for being apart of our community! Socials: Instagram: @theexpansivepodcast X: @theexpansivepod Linkedin: The Expansive Podcast Tik Tok: theexpansivepodcast…

The Expansive

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#235 Dopamine, Balance & Miserable Success 47:21

21 weeks ago47:21