ELEVATE Podcast

For most of our lives, we're taught there is only one path. Study hard. Get the job. Work longer. Save more. Retire someday. But more and more, it feels these rules no longer fit the world we live in. In this conversation, I sit down with Paul O'Mahony — entrepreneur, educator, bestselling author, and founder of RETHINK Academy — whose work has helped millions of people challenge convent...

Exploring the human condition of being a primal wild animal forced to live in a highly docile, modern world, and how reconnecting with nature can heal and reinvigorate our lives. Thanks for tuning in to the ELEVATE Podcast. Sharing their lives, to elevate yours. Please subscribe, rate, and share if this episode moved you. Stay connected and explore more at www.elevationbarn.com Follow us on Instag...

Stories aren’t just told. They’re lived. In this episode of ELEVATE, I sit down with Charles Melcher — founder of Future of Storytelling and a quiet architect behind how we experience narrative in a rapidly evolving world — to explore why storytelling is no longer a medium, but an environment. Charlie doesn’t just create stories. He designs worlds people can step into. Because the future of storyt...

AI isn’t replacing leaders. It’s exposing them. In this episode of ELEVATE, I sit down with the fabulous Friska Wirya — global transformation strategist and the new leadership force behind STABLE by Elevation Barn — to unpack why most present Leadership models won’t survive the AI era. Friska doesn’t teach process. She teaches emotional capability. Because transformation isn’t operational. It’s em...

We’re taught to chase perfection. To get it right. To look successful. But what if that mindset is quietly holding us back? In this conversation, I sit down with Dian Sastrowardoyo — one of Asia’s most respected actors, producers, and cultural voices — to talk about what growth really looks like when no one’s watching. Dian has lived much of her life in the public eye. From childhood success as a...

What if the real beauty of life isn’t in perfection—but in being real? In this inspiring and unfiltered conversation, singer, model, and creative force Jaz Rowe opens up about her journey from reality TV fame to reclaiming her authentic voice. At just 23, she’s lived a lifetime—navigating the pressures of pageants, the spotlight of The Bachelor Indonesia , and the vulnerability of building a music...

What if the path to true health and happiness wasn’t about constant striving… but about subtraction? In this inspiring conversation, globally renowned yoga innovator and “blissologist” Eoin Finn shares how a life once driven by business success transformed into a mission to reconnect people with their bodies, their communities, and the natural world. From early days navigating high-pressure corpor...

What if our vision of the future wasn’t a prediction… but an invitation? In this bold and thought-provoking conversation, speculative designer and futurist Monika Bielskyte challenges the narrow, one-size-fits-all narratives that dominate our visions of tomorrow. Known for her work at the intersection of technology, culture, and inclusion, Monika designs future worlds that are as compassionate as...

What if the real power in leadership isn’t in the title… but in the culture you create? In this revealing and high-stakes conversation, global HR strategist and trusted leadership advisor William Ingham —often called “The Kingmaker” —unpacks the unseen dynamics that determine who rises, who falls, and what defines legacy in today’s boardrooms. From his early days working under Larry Ellison at Ora...

What if the biggest challenge in parenting… is not the child, but the parent? In this powerful and revealing conversation, clinical psychologist and bestselling author Dr. Shefali unpacks the revolutionary concept of conscious parenting—a journey that begins not with changing our children, but transforming ourselves. With wisdom, humor, and unflinching honesty, she explores how our own egos, proje...

To close out Season 11 of ELEVATE , we’re bringing back an inspiring conversation with an extraordinary guest whose life’s work continues to deepen our understanding of purpose, storytelling, and planet-saving activism. Step into the powerful world of Robert Nixon —acclaimed film director, writer, conservationist, and National Geographic’s “Hero of the Planet.” With over 50 documentaries to his na...

When it comes to thinking like a CEO, few have more insight than David Jepson , the CEO of The CEO magazine. As a leader who prides himself on value pillars such as transparency, accountability, and empathy, his perspective on success goes beyond the bottom line. He believes that the heart and soul needs should be what truly matters. Join us for a captivating conversation with David as we explore...

In 1665, the Dutch gave up their claim to the island of Manhattan in exchange for nutmeg, a spice found in Indonesia’s Banda Islands. While it may seem irrational by today’s standards, the Dutch decision was quite logical. Spice was the primary driver of the global economy 350 years ago, and Manhattan was just a swamp. But since then, Indonesia—once an Eden of some of the most impactful medicinal,...

The Pacific Island nation of Kiribati is one of the most remote places on Earth, seemingly far removed from the pressures of modern life. Yet it is among the first countries forced to confront the greatest existential dilemma of our time: imminent annihilation from rising sea levels. Set against the backdrop of international climate and human rights negotiations, this story follows director Matthi...

Embark on a compelling exploration of the microbial world with esteemed science writer David Ewing Duncan . Join us in a discussion about his latest co-authored book, Microlands , blending science, politics, and groundbreaking discoveries with geneticist Craig Venter. We’ll gain insights into Earth’s delicate microbial balance, the urgent call to address climate challenges, and the potential of ha...

The global custom sneaker market sits at around $1.3 BILLION. Creative strategist, CEO, and founder Alex Murray of London-based CANVVS is uniting a “who’s who” list of globally acclaimed artists, athletes, and celebrity voices to blow the lid off this, as the craving for expression continues to explode. Community-led, brand-obsessed, and story-driven... Join us as we explore how today’s need for i...

REUNION focuses on science, spirit, and family, offering unique perspectives on various topics aligned with many of today’s most pressing values. Founders John , Eve , and Rob share insights on spirituality, plant-assisted therapies, and the dynamics of running a family-owned business. We'll explore sustainable farming practices and their contributions to planetary and personal health, includ...

David Usher is an artist, best-selling musician, author, and globally recognized AI entrepreneur. As CEO and founder of Reimagine AI, his company sits on the creative edge of AI-powered virtual beings and technology, influencing souls through the entertainment, retail, and healthcare spaces. David's best-selling book, Let the Elephants Run: Unlock Your Creativity and Change Everything , is ou...

Sam Conniff is a groundbreaking entrepreneur, best-selling author, and the creative force behind the modern manifesto Be More Pirate . Inspired by the bold, rule-breaking pirates of the past, Sam challenges individuals and organizations to defy convention, rewrite the rules, and lead with audacity in today’s unpredictable world. His work empowers people to take control of uncertainty, transforming...

Jakob Trollback is a visionary designer and the creative mind behind the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals communication system. As founder of the Emmy-winning firm Trollback + Company , and Stockholm-based The New Division , he bridges storytelling, sustainability, and strategy to drive global change. A self-taught artist who began as a DJ in Stockholm, Jakob lives by the mantra: "Discard e...

Madison Mehta is a truth-seeker, breathwork guide, and poet whose voice has become a beacon for those navigating the complexities of healing and self-inquiry. In this episode, she shares how her journey inward—through heartbreak, identity struggles, and spiritual awakening—transformed her pain into poetic expression. We speak about confronting the “mental silence” that can feel more like inner noi...

Renowned writer, environmentalist, and the longest-serving employee at Patagonia, Vincent Stanley , takes center stage as the voice of nature’s most “responsible company.” With 50 years of experience, Stanley challenges leaders to reshape business in an era where traditional capitalism falls short. Join us in conversation with Stanley to learn about responsible business, from reducing harm to fost...

Tim Brown is one of the most respected designers of our time. His bestselling book, "Change by Design," has transformed organizational strategies worldwide, and his TED Talks, "Serious Play" and "Designers Think Big," have guided millions in understanding the importance of fusing technology and the arts to revolutionize design thinking. A prolific writer for Harvard B...

Step into the dynamic world of creativity and advertising as we join Nicole Purcell , the visionary CEO of The Clio Awards, for the latest episode of ELEVATE . Nicole shares the challenges and triumphs that have shaped her journey in leading one of the most prestigious awards programs in advertising, design, music, sports, and fashion. Discover the story behind Nicole’s remarkable career, crafting...

Rice is a staple ingredient in every household kitchen; however, its convenience comes at a significant cost to our planet. Over 90% of the world’s rice is grown in Asia, where rice-paddy farmers heavily rely on toxic chemicals to combat pests. It’s time to address this widespread chemical dependence that is poisoning our land and food. Join Belinda Sircombe-Jellett in conversation with regenerati...