Shows
Figuring Things OutSIDE NOTES #16 - Shark Diving & HandstandsIn this episode of Side Notes, Wil outlines a simple yet incredibly powerful process of working with fear. He explains his experience with diving with shark, and how he felt his body literally freeze up. He then explains a simple process that helps him learn from this and apply it in other areas that cause elevated levels of autonomic arousal AKA stress and fear. If you’re afraid of falling from a handstand, this one’s for you! In fact, if you’re afraid of anything right now - THIS ONE IS FOR YOU!! - ...2024-11-1417 minFiguring Things OutSIDE NOTES #15 - How to curate a sustainable practice (3 Keys)In this episode of Side Notes, Wil discusses 3 key tips that he uses to help curate a sustainable long term practice for himself and his students.
Tip 1: Modularised practice, with focus on primary and secondary goals.
Tip 2: The Soft Zone
Tip 3: Long Term vs Short Term Perspectives
Join our Patreon community here, get some inside access to Wil and support the podcast! patreon.com/FiguringThingsOutPodcast
We are excited to share that we are also...2024-11-0112 minFiguring Things OutSIDE NOTES #14 - The MentorSHIP (What/Why/How) ft. Simeon HaubergIn this episode of Side Notes I’m joined by friend, ex-student and now collaborator Simeon Hauberg. We introduce him to the FTO audience and then we expand on our current collaborative project - the MentorSHIP. An online community for current and aspiring movement coaches to learn and enhance their craft.
To learn more and to apply for the next cohort: www.figuringthingsout.com/mentorship
To support the podcast, we are excited to share our first few affiliate links below! You can also join our patreon community and of co...2024-10-1716 minFiguring Things OutSIDE NOTES #13 - 5 Tips for LongevityIn this episode of Side Notes, Wil breaks down the 5 key take aways from our latest series on Longevity.
Tip 1 - Ageism is real, how to be aware of it.
Tip 2 - How to move to increase your Vitality.
Tip 3 - Breathe correctly to fix your snoring and long term health.
Tip 4 - BOTH Spontaneity & Rhythm are the keys to youthfulness.
Tip 5 - The whole connected organism, and personal responsibility.
To get a deeper insight into each key point, please do...2024-10-1020 minFiguring Things OutLONGEVITY: Dr. Sally BellDr Sally Bell is a medical professional from the UK. She worked as a GP for many years before deciding to step away, in her words “I felt so frustrated. I felt like a pharmaceutical vending machine”
In this conversation Sally outlines what the health system in the UK could do better, and how she aims to work with her own patients to support them as an individual.
She outlines her Wellness Framework, and how she applies this in the real world for better long term health and wellbeing.
2024-09-291h 30Figuring Things OutLONGEVITY: Olivier Goetgeluck (Basketball/Movement Coach)Olivier Goetgeluck is a coach that aims to help driven individuals in business, sports and the arts playfully connect with their bodies in order to mobilize authentic self-expression and liberate possibility. In this exciting conversation we discuss the topic of longevity…
We explore longevity through various angles, from why spontaneity is vital, to why controlling parents ruine childhood potential without even realising it. Olivier expands on his years of childhood coaching, and how that helps inform his current work with business professionals seeking a more authentic and sustainable life.
Th...2024-09-221h 29Figuring Things OutLONGEVITY: David "Jacko" Jackson (Professional Rugby/Breathwork Coach)David Jackson is a Breath Work Coach for high performing athletes, based in Wales, UK. Previously he was a professional rugby player, but after a series of brutal head injuries he was forced to move on. He founded the highly successful “School of Calisthenics” before diving into the his now profession of breath work coach…
In this conversation we explore the concept of longevity, and the significance of failure as a learning opportunity. Jacko highlights the significance of physical intelligence, efficient movement, and proper breathing techniques in various physical activities, with a focus on the ro...2024-09-161h 32Figuring Things OutLONGEVITY: Sebastien Foucan (Parkour Founder)Sebastien Foucan is one of the founders of Parkour. Now 50 years old, he still moves with the energy and vitality of a young teen. I sat down with him to find out his secrets, to understand his story and to hear about where it all began…
Topics include: The Foucan Methodology, Sebastien’s Personal Journey, How Parkour really began, Barefoot Living, Self Care, Seasonal Training and more…
To support the podcast, we are excited to share our first few affiliate links below! You can also join our patreon community and of...2024-09-091h 05Figuring Things OutLONGEVITY: David Wilson (Oldscoolmoves)David Wilson AKA Oldscoolmoves is a teacher turned mover who is passionate about turning the conversation on aging, fighting back against ageism. Once a school teacher, David began to really dive into movement in his 50s, and now empowers hundreds of thousands of others via his social media.
In our conversation, I learn about negative aging attitudes, how to embrace aging with compassion and growth, overcoming barriers and limiting mindsets and how to address fears when restarting a physical practice.
Amazing free aging resource: www.oldschool.info
2024-09-021h 32Figuring Things OutSIDE NOTES #12 - Reflections & JournalingIn this episode, Wil discusses some simple yet powerful ways in which he’s been journaling over the past 10 years. Alongside this episode, you can download the Tools for Reflection guide for FREE via the following link:
www.figuringthingsout.com/store
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If you’d like to support this project and help us create more series, get involved in suggesting guests and topics, why not join our team: patreon.com/FiguringThingsOutPodcast
If you enjoyed this episode, it goes a huge way if you follow and share this with your friends. :)
For co...2024-07-2311 minFiguring Things OutSIDE NOTES #11 - Learning tools for slow learnersIn this episode of Side Notes, Wil takes a look at some key aspects of learning that emerged in our recent series. After interviewing 5 amazing people on the topic, we gained and shared some gems.
In this episode we take a more pragmatic look at learning tools that could help a slow learner. If you’re a coach/teacher, or are simply looking to help yourself at becoming a better learner… this one’s for you!
People/books mentioned:
Aaron Martin (Soft Acro Aaron)
Udo Neumann (Udini)
Josh...2024-07-0508 minFiguring Things OutSPECIAL EP: Josh Hash AKA Strength SideIn this special episode we mark one year of the Figuring Things Out Podcast, and go full circle with our first ever guest!!
Josh Hash is the founder and CEO of StrengthSide, a hugely popular YouTube channel and brand. Josh and I spoke in the first ever episode of the FTO Podcast, and to celebrate a year of the paddy we decided to sit down again for round 2!
Josh was a long term online student and has grown into a dear friend. His humble, and kind nature is a h...2024-06-191h 37Figuring Things OutLEARNING : Flynn Disney - Parkour & MovementS4:E5 - Learning Series.
In this episode Flynn and I discuss personal experiences, communication techniques, and the role of movement in personal growth. We explore the interplay between internal experiences and external performance, highlighting the importance of technology and bodily intelligence. Additionally, we delve into the concept of joy and its relationship with sensory experiences, attention, and the potential benefits of Flynn’s research programs.
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Surrea...2024-05-301h 34Figuring Things OutLEARNING: Lisa Chaves - Movement TeacherS4:E4 - LEARNING.
Lisa Chaves is a movement practitioner and coach living in Costa Rica. Originally from Canada, she had a long career personal training in NY, before a major life event changed her path.
In this episode she explains her passion for movement, sensitivity and exploration, and how finding joy through movement is the keystone to learning - and unlearning.
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Possibly the nicest guy in movement? What a conversation this was! Honestly we could have gone for another few hours, so if you’d like to hear more of our conversations please let us know.
We discussed Aarons journey through parkour and into movement, his current research study, measuring backflip efficiency and the relationship between internal vs external states when moving.
We explore in depth ideas pertaining to learning, styles, methods and philosophy. Aaron is a wealth of knowledge and there were avenues we could have explored over and ov...2024-05-161h 50Figuring Things OutLEARNING: Joseph Bartz - Movement TeacherS4:E2 - Learning series.
In this conversation Joseph explores the importance of authentic communication, connection, and learning in personal development.
We discuss our experiences with movement culture and digital devices, and compare this to Josephs experience of a forest school eduction, the current educational system, and the importance of understanding and addressing cognitive and physical limitations in a supportive manner.
Finally we talk about the learning competency model, and Joseph's approach to learning outside of the physical practices, such as with piano and language.
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Udo Neumann is one of Europe’s most prolific climbing coaches, having won the world title with not one, but two German Athletes in the same year! (Jan Hojer & Jule Wurm)
We discuss various aspects of athletic performance, including training methods, visualization techniques, and the balance between agitation and rest. We explore the differences between boulder gym climbing and traditional climbing, the benefits of versatility in sports, and the importance of cultural differences in learning and athletic performance. Lastly, we share some personal experiences and recommended resources for further learning, wi...2024-05-021h 42Figuring Things OutSIDE NOTES #10 - Fontainebleau Ticks, Tips & TacticsWe recently took a trip to Fontainebleau, one of the world’s most famous bouldering destinations! After a week of sends, we figured it’d be a really nice exercise to reflect on the week, discuss things that went well and those that didn’t go so well. We highlight Some useful tips and tactics that saved some time and effort, and of course have a general chin wag about the place.
Going on a trip soon? Maybe worth a listen!
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Or com...2024-04-2228 minFiguring Things OutSIDE NOTES #9 - Principles Pt.2: Recovery & the R.E.L.M ProcessIn Pt.2 of the shoulder discussion, we go over the principle of R.E.L.M and how to use it for recovery from an injury.
After a major shoulder injury back in early 2023, I decided to dive into a slightly alternative rehab process than the classically suggested R.I.C.E. After great success and feeling stronger than ever in my once injured shoulder, we share the general process and ways in which it can be used.
We are also working on an online course that can be accessed via our website to further...2024-04-1515 min
Figuring Things OutSIDE NOTES #8 - Principles Pt.1 : Force Production & Shoulder HealthPart one: In this episode we discuss the principles of producing force and maintaining the health of the shoulder. We explain the importance of transferring force from the arms to the body and resisting forces. We explain the unique structure of the scapula and how it functions like a floating canoe on the rib cage, requiring specific support from surrounding tissues.
We also introduce the importance of resisting forces in movements such as handstands and hangs to maintain shoulder stability and control, developing useful habits through training for better performance, particularly in areas like...2024-04-0815 min
Figuring Things OutSIDE NOTES #7 - Effort based rewardIn this episode Wil and Harvey discuss the concept of self-reward based on effort rather than outcome, with Wil suggesting this approach could support long-term practice and progress. We also touch upon the importance of acknowledging and owning stress as an enhancer to mindset, as introduced by Dr. Crumb. Lastly, they reviewed a section from the book, "9 out of 10 climbers make the same mistakes."
This is the third part of the progress series and rounds up nicely a few pragmatic intentions in order to get the most from your practice.
2024-03-2417 min
Figuring Things OutSIDE NOTES #6 - The consolidation phaseIn this episode Wil and Harvey discuss the concept of consolidation in their work, emphasizing the importance of combining various elements into a more effective or coherent whole. They explored the complexity of the human system compared to a 'clever' system like a robot, and the need for the whole system to adapt and assimilate any changes made.
Key Points:
Consolidation: Key to Sustainable Progression
Stress: Key to Personal Growth and Progress
Consolidation and Balance: Key to Stress-Free Living
Balance and Consolidation in Work Routines
2024-03-1716 min
Figuring Things OutSIDE NOTES #5 - Progression principlesIn this episode of Side Notes Wil discusses various principles related to progress within training, including reps in reserve, time under tension, rest times, range of motion and the importance of quality in movement. He emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to training, incorporating both physical and mental aspects such as deloading for recovery and maintaining motivation. The conversation highlighted the significance of subjective progressions, like coordination improvements and emotional well-being, alongside objective measures in order to sustain holistic training strategies for long-term progress and well-being.
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Figuring Things OutSIDE NOTES #4 - Should I stay or should I go?In this episode, Wil and Harvey discuss the question "when to stick it out and when to move on" - which of course includes various subtopics related to passion, needs, motivation, and the journey of personal growth. They emphasize the importance of balancing long-term goals with short-term projects to maintain momentum and enjoyment in one's training. They also touch on the challenges of achieving goals and the need to find joy in the process.
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Figuring Things OutSIDE NOTES #3 - Conversations on CreativityA round-up of series 3 - conversations on creativity. We look at the key takeaways and learnings from our 5 guests, and their ideas related to creativity.
What is creativity?
How and what can one implement to be more creative?
Tools, permissions, barriers and more...
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Figuring Things OutCREATIVITY: Tom Weksler + Roser TutusausS3:E5 - Creativity series.
This discussion is about the creative process, the importance of listening, and the challenges of adapting to the online world. Tom Weskler and Roser Tutusaus explained the concept of 'priming' or warming up as a crucial part of their creative practice. We then discussed creativity, inspiration, and the challenges of sharing creative work. How to have dialogue within the creative process and the role of upbringing in shaping one's creative journey. Can one teach creativity, particularly through movement? The discussion revolved around creating the right space, permissions, and challenges to foster creativity...2024-02-021h 21
Figuring Things OutCREATIVITY: George MayfieldS3:E4 - Creativity series.
The conversation between Wil and George Mayfield, a parkour practitioner and performer for Justice in Motion, discusses their shared interest in climbing and how George's background in parkour influences his approach to climbing. George also shared his childhood experiences and how he got into parkour. We discuss the evolution of parkour, its philosophy, and the personal experiences of George. The conversation also touched on the challenges of training in different conditions, the shift from competitive to artistic expression, and the integration of parkour with other forms of movement like dance. We discussed...2024-01-261h 22
Figuring Things OutCREATIVITY: David Johnston - Accept & ProceedS3:E3 - Creativity series.
This conversation with David Johnston, founder and CEO of Accept & Proceed dives into the topic of creativity. We discuss the current state of the world, the future and the importance of individual actions in shaping it.
We discuss the project 'We Don't Know What This Is', which involves gatherings at sunrise and sunset. We discuss the importance of questioning the status quo, the potential of movements and scenes to bring about change, and the role of pioneers in this process. We also touched on the importance of creating space for...2024-01-191h 06
Figuring Things OutCREATIVITY: Soisci PorchettaS3:E2 - Creativity series.
This conversation between Wil and Soisci Porchetta discusses their experiences and perspectives on creativity, personal growth, and the physical practice. Soisci shared her journey from being a Thai boxing competitor to a movement teacher, emphasizing the importance of integrating physical and internal practices. She also highlighted her desire to serve others through her skills.
She explains her journey through various physical practices, starting with gymnastics at age nine, moving through martial arts, and eventually finding her passion in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. She also talks about her experiences with different teachers, the...2024-01-121h 30
Figuring Things OutCREATIVITY: Kyle Fincham - Infinite PlayS3:E1 - Creativity series.
This conversation between Wil and Kyle Fincham, discussed their experiences with movement, play and personal growth. They explored the concept of 'weirdness' and how it influences their lives and practices. Kyle shared his journey from owning a gym to embracing a more dynamic and exploratory approach to movement, sharing his experiences as a stand-up comic and how it influenced his approach to teaching and facilitating. He emphasized the importance of creating a space for others to share and be seen, rather than being the center of attention. He also discussed the concept...2024-01-051h 31
Figuring Things OutSIDE NOTES #2 - More Hustle or More Chill?This episode of Side Notes revolved around the question 'Hustle Culture' versus 'Cottonwhool Culture' in the context of training and personal development. We discuss the importance of balancing pushing oneself and taking time to rest, and how this balance can be influenced by factors such as fatigue, injury, and life stress. We also touch on the concept of 'shoulds' and how societal expectations can impact this balance.
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Surrea...2023-12-0227 min
Figuring Things OutSIDE NOTES #1 - Figuring Things OutSide Notes is our short form effort to engage more regularly with you. Each episode we aim to share some thoughts on a topic, an idea or a project. This could be taken from previous conversations with guests on the podcast, or simply questions from our patreon audience.
In this first episode, Harvey and Wil sat down for a chat to properly outline where Figuring Things Out is right now, the intentions and values behind the project, and then some exciting future plans!!! We also get to answer our first Patreon Question, which is...2023-11-2030 min
Figuring Things OutRECOVERY: Samantha EmanuelS2:E5 - Recovery series.
The conversation with Samantha Emanuel discusses her journey from construction laborer to belly dancer, her experience with a severe injury, and her current studies in dance science. Samantha shared her experiences working in male-dominated fields, her transition to a female-dominated field, and her thoughts on competition.The meeting revolved around the discussion of fostering healthy competition in children, the balance between hustle culture and cotton wool culture, and the importance of effort and practice. Samantha shared her experiences with her children and her own recovery from injuries, emphasizing the importance of embracing...2023-10-041h 08
Figuring Things OutRECOVERY: Andrew TraceyS2:E4 - Recovery series.
This episode shares a discussion between Wil Brown and Andrew Tracey, who is the Fitness Editor of Men's Health Magazine. We discuss training philosophies, the importance of physical literacy, and the benefits of strongman-style movements. We also discussed the impact of CrossFit on mainstream fitness and a detailed discussion on the concept of physical training, focusing on the balance between capacity and complexity. Andrew shared personal stories about overcoming physical challenges, dealing with injuries, and the mental resilience required to continue training. We eventually moved onto discussing mental health, the challenges of...2023-10-042h 00
Figuring Things OutRECOVERY: Daniel PetersS2:E3 - Recovery series.
Daniel Peters is a movement coach, based in Germany. We discussed his experiences with movement training, Daniel's journey from football to movement coaching, and his experience with injuries. We also touched on Daniel's academic background in process engineering and his decision to quit his job as a project engineer to focus on movement coaching. We discussed the importance of vulnerability and authenticity in teaching movement, the need for more professional resources for movement teachers, and the speaker's personal journey through depression and therapy. The meeting involved a discussion about the speaker's experience...2023-10-041h 04
Figuring Things OutRECOVERY: Tom Merrick - The Bodyweight WarriorS2:E2 - Recovery series.
Tom Merrick, a YouTube influencer and fitness enthusiast, discusses his journey from focusing on his YouTube channel to renovating houses. He shares his fears about the sustainability of his YouTube career and his decision to learn a new skill as a safety net. Tom also reflects on the value of practical, physical work and how it has given him a new perspective on fitness and time management. The meeting focused on discussing personal training methods, injury prevention, and recovery techniques. Tom Merrick emphasized the importance of outdoor training, reducing barriers to training...2023-10-041h 05
Figuring Things OutRECOVERY: Joanne AvisonS2:E1 - Recovery series.
This conversation begins with Joanne sharing her journey from being an art and English student to becoming a yoga teacher, manual therapist, and author. She discusses her work as a reverend and doctor of spiritual science, her approach to treating patients, emphasizing the importance of viewing the body and being as one. Joanne also shared her fascination with the human body's self-organizing ability and the need for movement to maintain its integrity.
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Figuring Things OutMOVEMENT: Jon YuenS1:E5 - Movement series.
This conversation with Jon Yuen revolves around his approach to movement and training, coaching, goal setting, balance, exploring different activities, and the differences between fitness and movement culture. He emphasizes the importance of individuality, adaptability, self-belief, clear communication, and focusing on personal needs and preferences. Jon also shares his passion for animals, reading, and his online events called 'The Huddle'.
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Figuring Things OutMOVEMENT: Brian Johnson - The Movement StandardS1:E4 - Movement series.
We spent an hour and half with Brian Johnson discussing various aspects of movement practice, teaching methods, personal growth, and the role of community and mentorship. We also got touch on the challenges of integrating movement practices into people's lives and the influence of social media.
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Figuring Things OutMOVEMENT: Tina Afiyan Breiova - Axis of ActionS1:E3 - Movement series.
In this episode we were lucky enough to speak to Tina Afiyan Breiova. We discussed the importance of movement, teaching styles, and personal experiences in the performing arts. Tina shares her background, teaching philosophy, and the role of movement as a tool for communication and expression.
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Figuring Things OutMOVEMENT: Jason Round - MoveMoreMPS1:E2 - Movement series.
In this episode we caught up with long time friend Jason Round and discuss the importance of movement in life, its impact on well-being, and the need for a holistic approach to movement practice. He emphasises the importance of joyful movement, play, and adapting to change for personal growth.
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Figuring Things OutMOVEMENT: Josh Hash - Strength SideS1:E1 - Movement series.
In this first episode of the Figuring Things Out Podcast, we sit down with Strength Side's very own Josh Hash. Josh has been a long term online student of Wils' and is a great friend of the team. The conversation explores his journey through various physical practices, the importance of reflection and journaling, experiences with injuries, self-regulation, and personal transformation. He emphasizes the importance of following one's interests, listening to one's body, and engaging in social and community aspects of training. Josh also shares his excitement about upcoming changes in his life...2023-06-011h 07
The Wellness Academy PodcastWellness Academy brings you Andrew Tracey!Hello ladies & gents, Welcome to another episode of the Wellness Academy podcast! Today we bring you Andrew Tracey. Serial program writer, entrepreneur, Mens Health fitness editor & the man that "trains where you park your car"! AT joined me on the podcast several weeks ago now to discuss mindset towards training & the idea of "not having enough time" or simply "not having"... Bringing his powerful mindset to the podcast AT shares lots of insights as well as his experiences running several businesses & keeping his training/health paramount. Please...2020-04-0200 min