Permission to Flow

051 - The Quest for Enoughness: Balancing Creativity and Family Expectations with Benjamin Von Wong

Special Announcement:
I'm currently running a giveaway! If you sign up for my upcoming newsletter between now and the end of July, you'll be entered to win a free coaching session with me. In this newsletter, you'll receive insights and updates and ensure you never miss an episode of A Way of Thinking Podcast. You can sign up for my newsletter here. 
 
I am thrilled to have the extraordinary Benjamin Von Wong join us for today’s episode. Benjamin is a Canadian artist, activist, and photographer renowned for his environmental art installations and hyper-realist art style. His journey from being a mining engineer to becoming a viral artist is nothing short of inspiring and in this episode, we discuss the how and why behind his transition. Benjamin also shares profound insights on navigating societal pressures and family dynamics while chasing what truly brings you purpose. 
 
Additionally, we discuss his unique approach to creating impactful social projects and the essential role of community in his creative process. This conversation is a powerful testament to the boundless potential of creativity and the transformative impact it can have on our lives and the world around us.
 
Topics discussed in this episode include:
- [00:00:00] - The Quest for Enoughness: Balancing Creativity and Purpose
- [00:01:27] - Balancing Creativity and Impact
- [00:01:49] - Leveraging Relationships and Time Management
- [00:01:56] - Navigating Societal Pressures and Family Dynamics
- [00:21:18] - The Importance of Enoughness in Life
- [00:55:17] - Final Questions and Reflections
 
Quotes from the episode:
- "For most of your problems in your life, you're one conversation away from figuring it out."
- "Purpose changes. What you love changes, what the world needs changes, what you care about changes. To lock yourself into a purpose doesn’t fit my personality."
 
Connect with Benjamin:
- Benjamin’s Website
- Benjamin’s Instagram
- Humble Badasses in NYC
Announcements:
Book a Free Sales Call
Donate to A Way of Thinking Podcast
 
 
Connect with Jessica:
Instagram: @jessicahwangcoaching
Facebook: Jessica Hwang Coaching
Website: Jessica Hwang Coaching
 
 
Credits:
Music co-written by Steven Murillo (@someoneinatreeband) & Jessica Hwang (@jessicahwangcoaching)
Production and audio engineering by Ease of Mind Productions
 

50 - Celebrating 50 Episodes: How I Achieved Consistency and Embraced Imperfection

I'm thrilled to celebrate our 50th episode and I want to express my gratitude to all listeners for their support! Many podcasts don’t make it past episodes 8 or 9, so this is a special milestone for me. The main lesson I've learned along the way is definitely the power of consistency. Our habits shape our lives, and as Aristotle may have said: "We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, therefore, is not an act but a habit."
 
With that in mind, in this episode, I break down the three steps that I've implemented to stay consistent in releasing this podcast. These include creating a realistic plan, building routines that align with your energy levels, and letting go of perfectionism.
 
I'm also excited to announce that I'm starting a newsletter and offering a giveaway to celebrate its launch. You could win a free 30-minute coaching session with me. Visit my website to sign up.
 
CORRECTION: The giveaway runs until July 31, 2024.
 
Thank you for being part of this journey and here’s to 50 more episodes of growth and learning!
 
 
Topics Covered in Today's Episode: 
- [00:00] - Celebrating 50 Episodes: The Power of Consistency
- [03:41] - Exciting Newsletter Announcement
- [05:25] - Three Steps to Consistency
- [05:36] - Step 1: Making a Good Plan
- [12:08] - Step 2: Building Good Habits
- [18:58] - Step 3: Embracing Imperfection
 
 
Quotes from Episode: 
“The ability to forgive yourself every time that you fall off is how we keep consistent."
"Give yourself permission to be perfectly imperfect and keep moving forward."
 
 
Announcements:
Sign Up for Jessica's Newsletter
Book a Free Sales Call with Jessica
Donate to A Way of Thinking Podcast
 
 
Connect with Jessica:
Instagram: @jessicahwangcoaching
Facebook: Jessica Hwang Coaching
Website: Jessica Hwang Coaching
 
 
Credits:
Music co-written by Steven Murillo (@someoneinatreeband) & Jessica Hwang (@jessicahwangcoaching)
Production and audio engineering by Ease of Mind Productions

49 - Redefining Purpose: Eddie Stern's Guide to Meaningful Living

I'm thrilled to have the incredible Eddie Stern join us for today's episode. Eddie is a renowned yoga teacher, author, and researcher whose approach to yoga blends traditional practices with scientific research. In this episode, we dive deep into purpose, creativity, and the profound connection between mind and body.
 
Eddie shares his insights on how purpose isn't something you attain but a feeling of alignment with what you're meant to be doing. He emphasizes the importance of engaging in activities that give your life meaning, even if it's just for a little while each day.
 
We also explore the idea that creativity is inherent in all of us as part of the universe's ongoing act of creation. Eddie discusses how bringing the invisible into visibility through various forms of art, problem-solving, and innovation is a fundamental aspect of being human.
 
 
Topics discussed in this episode include:
- [00:00] - Redefining Purpose: Eddie Stern's Guide to Meaningful Living
- [05:02] - Exploring Purpose
- [18:33] - The Role of Creativity in Life
- [30:24] - The Science of Yoga
- [33:47] - Mind-Body Connection
- [50:14] - The Quest for Knowledge and Purpose
- [54:57] - Final Questions
Quotes from Episode:
"Mind and body are a continuum; they are part of the same thing. The body is a field with a perceptive sense of mind. If no mind is there, there's no feeling."
 
"Creativity is bringing the invisible into visibility, whether through art, music, science, or solving problems."
Connect with Eddie: 
Eddie’s Website 
Eddie’s Instagram
The Breathing App
Eddie's Book: One Simple Thing: A New Look at the Science of Yoga and How It Can Transform Your Life
Eddie's New Audiobook: Healing Through Breathing: Four Lessons for Lasting Health and Happiness 
 
 
 
Announcements:
Book a Free Sales Call with Jessica
Donate to A Way of Thinking Podcast
 
 
Connect with Jessica:
Instagram: @jessicahwangcoaching
Facebook: Jessica Hwang Coaching
Website: Jessica Hwang Coaching
 
 
Credits:
Music co-written by Steven Murillo (@someoneinatreeband) & Jessica Hwang (@jessicahwangcoaching)
Production and audio engineering by Ease of Mind Productions

48 - Grounding Yourself: How to Overcome Other People's Opinions

In today's solo episode of A Way of Thinking, the focus is on how to handle and filter external opinions, especially when making significant life changes such as transitioning from a traditional and "safe" corporate job to following your passion.
 
As someone who had to navigate the advice of many family members and friends when quitting my finance job, I'll speak to the importance of grounding yourself in your personal vision and using that as your foundation. This grounding is crucial in preventing the opinions of others from knocking you off course on your journey. Plus, I'll discuss tactics for dealing with the nuanced topic of balancing respect for others' opinions with the necessity of pursuing your own path.
 
 
Topics discussed in this episode include:
- [00:00] - Overcoming Other People's Opinion
- [02:12] - Understanding Opinions and Their Influence
- [02:54] - Navigating Opinions in Career Changes
- [03:58] - The Role of Family and Friends in Shaping Our Decisions
- [09:20] - Building a Supportive Community for Change
- [15:46] - Grounding Yourself in Your Own Vision and Choices
 
 
Quotes from Episode:
"We need to respect and appreciate the people who give us their opinions, but also at times, when we really believe we need to go in a new direction, we might have to hit a mute button on those outside opinions." 
 
"When you go against the grain, it can be challenging for others to accept. Sometimes, you're pushing their buttons because they might also want to take risks but aren't willing to so they will try to pull you back to what's safe and familiar."
Announcements:
Sign Up for a Free Strategy Session
Donate to A Way of Thinking Podcast
 
 
Connect with Jessica:
Instagram: @jessicahwangcoaching
Facebook: Jessica Hwang Coaching
Website: Jessica Hwang Coaching
 
 
Credits:
Music co-written by Steven Murillo (@someoneinatreeband) & Jessica Hwang (@jessicahwangcoaching)
Production and audio engineering by Ease of Mind Productions

47 - The Art of Belonging: Poetry, Immigration, and Purpose with Renzo del Castillo

I'm thrilled to be joined in this episode by Renzo del Castillo, a poet, author, and healthcare executive, to discuss his poetry collection 'Still' and the themes it encapsulates, including immigration, love, and personal growth. 
 
Renzo shares his journey from a corporate world to finding solace in poetry, emphasizing the importance of vulnerability, creativity, and self-discovery. The conversation also touches on the influence of poets like Neruda, Bukowski, and Szymborska. 
 
Renzo's personal stories about his family and lessons from his late father underline the significance of love, sacrifice, and living in the present. From poetry recommendations to intimate anecdotes, this episode serves as an inspirational guide for us all to embrace our creative impulses and find purpose in our journeys.
 
 
Topics discussed in this episode include:
- [00:00] - The Art of Belonging: Poetry, Immigration, and Purpose 
- [04:38] - Exploring Purpose and Passion 
- [15:32] - The Intersection of Corporate Life and Creative Expression
- [19:10] - The Power of Vulnerability and Creation
- [29:53] - Generational Lessons and the Immigrant Experience
- [43:24] - Addressing Stereotypes and Embracing Diversity
- [53:23] - Final Questions 
- [01:03:34] - Finding Meaning Through Creation and Connection
 
 
Quotes from Episode: 
"The antithesis to languishing is creation. If you create, you can't be passive."
 
 "A big change for me came from realizing that perfection breeds paralysis"
Links from the Episode: 
Still: A Collection of Poetry
Renzo’s Instagram
Renzo’s LinkedIn
The Before Trilogy
Announcements:
Sign Up for a Free Strategy Session
Donate to A Way of Thinking Podcast
Join me for Dharma Yoga Sundays at 12 pm. in-person and online. DM me for details
 
 
Connect with Jessica:
Instagram: @jessicahwangcoaching
Facebook: Jessica Hwang Coaching
Website: Jessica Hwang Coaching
 
 
Credits:
Music co-written by Steven Murillo (@someoneinatreeband) & Jessica Hwang (@jessicahwangcoaching)
Production and audio engineering by Ease of Mind Productions

46 - Celebrating Two Years of the A Way of Thinking Podcast

Join me in this celebratory episode as we mark the two-year anniversary of the 'A Way of Thinking' podcast. Today, I reflect on the invaluable lessons we've gathered along the way, with a particular focus on the significance of embracing change and innovation.
 
In this episode, I share personal insights into the practice of non-attachment, the excitement of experimenting with new approaches, and the fundamental role of support and community in overcoming life's varied challenges and transitions. We also delve into how love, playfulness, and curiosity are not just essential for personal joy but are crucial in driving professional growth and development.
 
Topics discussed in this episode include:
- [00:00] -  Celebrating Two Years of the A Way of Thinking Podcast
- [09:51] -  Embracing Change and Experimentation
- [12:55] - The Power of Non-Attachment and Flexibility in Personal Growth
- [19:57]-  Cultivating Love in Everything You Do
- [30:50] - The Importance of Playfulness: Keeping the Child Within Alive
- [37:09] - Building Community and Seeking Support
- [45:50] - Igniting Your Creative Vision
Quotes from Episode: 
"Doing things differently is the most valuable thing we can do for ourselves because I feel like no matter where we are in our journey, to be able to do something different just allows us to be more flexible and expand beyond a fixed mindset of thinking.” 
 
“The word hate is harming us and it’s holding us back. For me, I think about how can I have more love towards everything.”
 
Links from the Episode: 
A Way of Thinking Podcast: Episode 22 - The Power of Courage: Reflections on One Year of Podcasting and Celebrating Ourselves
 
 
Announcements:
Sign Up for a Free Strategy Session
Donate to A Way of Thinking Podcast
Join me for Dharma Yoga Sundays at 12 pm. in-person and online. DM me for details
 
 
Connect with Jessica:
Instagram: @jessicahwangcoaching
Facebook: Jessica Hwang Coaching
Website: Jessica Hwang Coaching
 
 
Credits:
Music co-written by Steven Murillo (@someoneinatreeband) & Jessica Hwang (@jessicahwangcoaching)
Production and audio engineering by Ease of Mind Productions

45 - Healing Through Art: From Self-Criticism to Self-Discovery with Rukmini Poddar

In this episode of A Way of Thinking, I have the privilege of diving into a profound conversation with the multi-talented Rukmini Poddar. As an artist, designer, educator, and author, Rukmini shares her inspiring journey of uncovering purpose through the lens of creativity. We delve into the heart of her artistic endeavors, particularly focusing on her meaningful 100-day projects and the creation of her book 'Draw Your Feelings.'
Throughout the episode, we unpack the complexities of pursuing a creative career amidst cultural and familial expectations. Plus, Rukmini enlightens us on how drawing serves as a bridge to accessing and understanding our emotions, emphasizing the universal essence of creativity. 
Join us as we unravel the transformative power of art in connecting with our feelings and the profound impact it can have on personal growth and discovery.
 
Topics discussed in this episode include:
[0:00] - Healing Through Art
[07:41] - The Impact of the 100 Day Project
[22:42] - Creativity in Corporate Settings
[27:38] - The Power of Drawing Emotions
[34:19] - Navigating the Unknown: A Creative's Journey
[38:36] - The Process of Creating a Book
[44:07] - Reflections on Personal Growth and Letting Go
[51:20] - Final Questions
Quotes from Episode: 
"I've become really passionate about the way art can express feelings that we have that we can't otherwise express. When you draw your anger, you can suddenly see it and you can create distance. From there you can start to heal."  
 
"I want to share a message with anyone creative who struggles with self-criticism: being overly critical of ourselves doesn't help in the long run. Instead, it only serves to shut us down."
 
 
Links from the Episode: 
Rukmini's Website 
Rukmini’s Instagram
Draw Your Feelings Book
Announcements:
Sign Up for a Free Strategy Session
Donate to A Way of Thinking Podcast
Join me for Psychic Development at 9:30 a.m. and Yoga Nidra at 10:30 a.m. in-person and online. DM me for details
 
 
Connect with Jessica:
Instagram: @jessicahwangcoaching
Facebook: Jessica Hwang Coaching
Website: Jessica Hwang Coaching
 
 
Credits:
Music co-written by Steven Murillo (@someoneinatreeband) & Jessica Hwang (@jessicahwangcoaching)
Production and audio engineering by Ease of Mind Productions

44 - Embracing the Wild Within: A Journey of Spiritual Entrepreneurship with Lisa Francisco

In today's unique episode of A Way of Thinking, I'm thrilled to have Lisa Francisco join me as a guest host. Lisa is a Sacred Feminine Mentor, guiding women to tap into their inner divinity and embrace their wildness. 
 
Our conversation dives into our spiritual journeys, sharing personal stories of growth, the rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, and the magic of learning to be kind to ourselves and fully embrace who we are. We discuss our yoga and meditation routines, highlighting how these practices have become crucial in unlocking our inner strength and acknowledging our worth.
 
Lisa also speaks about her incredible mission to uplift women at every chapter of their lives, reminding us of the beauty in connecting with our divine selves and the endless path of self-discovery.  
 
Topics discussed in this episode include:
[0:00] - Embracing the Wild Within
[10:20] - The Power of Crazy: Breaking Free from Conformity
[27:58] - Spiritual Practices and Entrepreneurship
[41:52] - The Unexpected Depth of Yoga Teacher Training
[47:14] - Navigating Entrepreneurship and Family Dynamics
[53:45] - Embracing Vulnerability and Being Seen
[01:01:57] - Final Questions 
Quotes from Episode: 
“We think crazy is bad and I don't agree with that. I think crazy is what creates a beautiful, wild, amazing life.”
 
“My spiritual practice is my foundation and I wouldn't be able to do what I do without it. When I'm out of sync with my practices, I become too hard on myself.” 
 
Links from the Episode:
Lisa’s Website 
Lisa’s Instagram
Lisa’s YouTube 
Lisa’s TikTok
Announcements:
Sign Up for a Free Strategy Session
Donate to A Way of Thinking Podcast
Join me for Psychic Development at 9:30 a.m. and Yoga Nidra at 10:30 a.m. in-person and online. DM me for details
 
 
Connect with Jessica:
Instagram: @jessicahwangcoaching
Facebook: Jessica Hwang Coaching
Website: Jessica Hwang Coaching
 
 
Credits:
Music co-written by Steven Murillo (@someoneinatreeband) & Jessica Hwang (@jessicahwangcoaching)
Production and audio engineering by Ease of Mind Productions