Life Long Learner

This week on the Out of Class edition of Lifelong Learner, we crack open the raw realities of transition, freedom, and the aches that remind us we’re alive. What starts as light banter about backgrounds and early morning texts quickly unravels into a conversation about endings, new beginnings, and the gritty in-between.Fresh off closing the chapter at The Summit, Gines shares the nerves and excitement of buying an electrical business—learning new systems, tackling debt, and asking all the naïve questions that spark both confusion and growth. Meanwhile, Matt recounts a brutal week struck down by Bali food poisoning, a spiral into health anxiety, and the surprising gratitude that comes when your body finally bounces back. And Ben? He’s juggling bodybuilding prep, heavy chiropractic practice loads, and the mental “hangover” that lingers long after work should be over—all while dreaming of snow trips and the freedom to fly, literally.In this episode, we unpack:⚡ Gines’ jump into a new industry—what it feels like to buy a business you don’t yet understand.🤒 Matt’s gastro saga in Bali, the $800 IV bill, and how illness can reset your perspective.💪 Ben’s season of competing, practice pressures, and what it means to carry work hangovers in both body and mind.🎿 Why resets—whether it’s snow trips or small breaks—are essential for staying sane in the grind.🛠️ The constant trade-off between building something meaningful and not being consumed by it.🔑 The mindset shift of choosing your freedom—and remembering to appreciate what you already have.This episode is raw, hilarious, and quietly grounding—three mates navigating business, health, and identity while asking the same question we all face: how do you build a life of freedom without losing yourself in the process?Because yes, there will always be aches. But wisdom lies in choosing which aches are worth it—and which freedoms really matter.🚀 Tune in now and subscribe at lifelonglearnerpodcast.com🎧 This episode is brought to you by Make It Happen GroupEmpowering professionals and business leaders to achieve their full potential through strategic coaching and performance development.Explore more at makeithappengroup.org🔹 Stay Connected & Join the Conversation🌐 Website – lifelonglearnerpodcast.com📌 Facebook – facebook.com/lifelonglearnernow📌 Instagram – instagram.com/lifelonglearner.podcast💬 Got a thought, a laugh, or a question for us?Send it through to: hello@lifelonglearnerpodcast.com

In this firecracker of a conversation, we dive deep into one of the most loaded (and misunderstood) topics in modern culture: masculinity.What started with a cheeky “If you were the devil, how would you destroy men?” clip quickly snowballed into a thought-provoking exploration of what’s really happening to men—and society—today.From the erosion of brotherhood and rites of passage to the rise of comfort, convenience, and clickbait culture, this episode isn’t about packaged solutions—it’s about raising important questions and challenging the narratives we’re swimming in.In this episode, we unpack:🧠 The identity crisis facing modern men—and how we got here💥 Toxic masculinity vs. true masculinity: what’s the difference (and who’s defining it)?📱 Algorithms, attention, and the cost of endless scrolling🧍 Why both men and women are afraid to truly own their energy🔄 The role of media, marketing, and money in shaping the norm🔥 How to challenge your echo chamber and think for yourself👨‍👧 What’s at stake if we don’t get this right—for our daughters, sons, and the generations to comeThis one’s honest, raw, and reflective—three mates asking better questions, challenging their own thinking, and holding space for nuance in an increasingly binary world.Because growth starts with awareness. And awareness starts with conversation.🚀 Tune in now and subscribe at lifelonglearnerpodcast.com🎧 This episode is brought to you by Make It Happen GroupEmpowering professionals and business leaders to achieve their full potential through strategic coaching and performance development.Learn more at makeithappengroup.org🔹 Stay Connected & Join the Conversation:🌐 Website – lifelonglearnerpodcast.com📌 Facebook – www.facebook.com/lifelonglearnernow📌 Instagram – www.instagram.com/lifelonglearner.podcast💬 Got a thought, a laugh, or a question for us? Email: hello@lifelonglearnerpodcast.com

In this Out of Class edition of the Lifelong Learner podcast, Gines and Ben reunite after a short break with an episode that dives deep into leadership, resilience, and the unexpected power of doing hard things.Fresh from an off-track, high-stakes mountain adventure in Tasmania, Ben unpacks what it was like organising and leading a group of 11 men—many of whom had never hiked before—through sleet, steep boulder-strewn climbs, and moments of real physical and mental challenge. But this isn’t a story about gear or maps. It’s about people. What happens when pressure is on? When the path disappears? When fear kicks in?We explore:Why a beginner’s mindset isn’t just for kids—it’s essential for great leadersHow we all show up differently under pressure: some lead, some help, and some freezeThe surprising difference between doing something hard vs. doing something riskyWhat contrast teaches us—about ourselves, about joy, and about what really mattersWhy comfort might be killing your growth (and what to do about it)We also zoom out to reflect on how this plays out in parenting, business, and life. Gines shares what it felt like to walk away from a big client instead of compromising core values. It wasn’t easy—but it was worth it. We discuss the cost of avoiding discomfort, the epidemic of “pandering” to ease, and the truth that learning—real, deep, human learning—comes when we stretch.Whether you’re hiking mountains, building businesses, or raising kids in a world that loves to avoid discomfort, this conversation is a timely reminder that:🔥 Growth happens outside the comfort zone🌧 Joy hits harder when you’ve tasted hardship🧠 And risk isn’t something to avoid—it’s something to understand🚀 Tune in now and subscribe at lifelonglearnerpodcast.comThis episode is brought to you by Make It Happen Group.Empowering professionals and business leaders to achieve their full potential through strategic coaching and performance development.🔗 Learn more at makeithappengroup.org🔹 Stay Connected & Join the Conversation:🌐 Website – lifelonglearnerpodcast.com📌 Facebook – facebook.com/lifelonglearnernow📌 Instagram – instagram.com/lifelonglearner.podcast💬 We’d love to hear from you!If you wanna say hello, share a joke, or ask us a question, send us an email at hello@lifelonglearnerpodcast.com

In this special Out of Class edition, Ben, Gines, and Matt come together for their first-ever in-person recording—an episode filled with laughs, deep dives, and unexpected twists.The conversation kicks off with the challenges of navigating major life transitions, including Gines’ personal journey of stepping away from a long-term leadership role. The guys reflect on how difficult it can be to manage shifting expectations, both for yourself and those around you.From there, they tackle the fascinating complexities of communication—how cultural backgrounds, personal experiences, and even something as simple as ordering jam at a café can shape the way we interact. They also explore why saying "I don’t care" can mean a whole lot more than it seems, and why true leadership is often about adapting your message to the person in front of you.And if that wasn’t enough action, Ben shares a jaw-dropping story about saving someone’s life on the Gold Coast—proving that sometimes, being in the right place at the right time (with the right knowledge) can make all the difference.It’s a raw, insightful, and hilarious episode filled with real talk about life, leadership, and learning to embrace the unexpected.🚀 Tune in now and subscribe at lifelonglearnerpodcast.comThis episode is brought to you by Make It Happen GroupHelping professionals and business leaders unlock their full potential through strategic coaching and performance development. Learn more at makeithappengroup.org🔹 Stay Connected & Join the Conversation:🌐 Website – lifelonglearnerpodcast.com📌 Facebook – www.facebook.com/lifelonglearnernow📌 Instagram – www.instagram.com/lifelonglearner.podcast💬 We’d love to hear from you! If you wanna say hello, share a joke, or ask us a question, send us an email at hello@lifelonglearnerpodcast.com

This week is it is Gines and Matt bring your another inspiring conversation. Matt chats about growth, and needs to be framed in the future, in terms of, what you are about to go through needs to be worth it in the future. Gines questions the story we tell ourselves, is it resourceful or unresourceful? Either one it is currently serving us in some shape or form . This episode is brought to you by Make It Happen Group performance coaching - makeithappengroup.orgFor more updates and to subscribe head to -lifelonglearnerpodcast.comFacebook - www.facebook.com/lifelonglearnernowInstagram - www.facebook.com/lifelonglearner.podcast And if you wanna say hello, tell us a joke, or ask us a question, send us an email athello@lifelonglearnerpodcast.com

Join Gines, Ben, and Matt for another captivating episode of Life Long Learner: Out of Class Edition, where real-world experiences meet personal growth. This week, Matt opens up about a challenge close to his heart—sourcing ethically sustainable wood for his resort. What started as a quest for quality turned into a balancing act between rising costs and staying true to his values. Matt shares the highs and lows of navigating this process, and what it means to make decisions that prioritize ethics over convenience. In the second half, Gines leads a powerful discussion on the role of belief in shaping our future. Drawing from his own experiences, he talks about how the perspectives we form from life’s challenges and successes can either hold us back or propel us forward. Gines emphasizes the importance of making decisive choices and the impact that leading with confidence and certainty can have on achieving our goals. This episode is brought to you by Make It Happen Group performance coaching - makeithappengroup.orgFor more updates and to subscribe head to -lifelonglearnerpodcast.comFacebook - www.facebook.com/lifelonglearnernowInstagram - www.facebook.com/lifelonglearner.podcast And if you wanna say hello, tell us a joke, or ask us a question, send us an email athello@lifelonglearnerpodcast.com

In this episode of the Life Long Learner podcast Ben, Gines, and Matt engage in a casual and humorous conversation, touching on various personal anecdotes, fitness journeys, and motivational strategies. A standout topic is the story of Ben preparing for a bodybuilding competition in four weeks, aiming to compete in the physique category. They discuss the discipline required to reach sub-8% body fat, the challenges of staying consistent with nutrition and training, and the importance of progress, even when it is not linear. One key strategy discussed is "burning the boats," which refers to making a public commitment to something challenging—like stepping on stage in a bodybuilding competition. By putting pressure on themselves, they find that they are more likely to stay disciplined and avoid giving in to temptations. They acknowledge that this strategy isn't for everyone but works for those who thrive under pressure. Additionally, Ben, Gines and Matt highlighted the importance of having a support system or "commitment squad." These are people who will hold you accountable, push you to stay on track, and offer encouragement, especially when things get tough. They contrast this with a "cheer squad," which might offer support but not necessarily the tough love needed to maintain discipline in difficult moments. They also explored broader themes of motivation, self-belief, and consistency. Whether it's bodybuilding, business, or personal goals, the hosts agree that progress isn't always immediate or linear, but staying consistent and finding the right support system are key to success. They emphasize that it’s crucial to understand your personality and adapt your approach to motivation accordingly. This episode is brought to you by Make It Happen Group performance coaching - makeithappengroup.org For more updates and to subscribe head to -lifelonglearnerpodcast.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lifelonglearnernow Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lifelonglearner.podcast Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz_HJXIvmwW7HfzhaOM0itQ

In this engaging episode of the Life Long Learner podcast Ben, Gines, and Matt explore various aspects of life, personal growth, and lessons from their hobbies. Matt shares the current challenges of his resort construction project and the importance of maintaining clear communication and managing expectations in such endeavors. Matt shares insights from his experience as a surfer, highlighting the importance of focusing on where you want to go and applying that mindset to life and business. He emphasizes the need to anticipate challenges and stay resilient, drawing parallels between surfing and managing the ongoing construction of his resort. This leads to a broader discussion about embracing unpredictability in work while maintaining certain certainties in other areas of life, like food preferences and personal routines. Ben delves into the concept of contrast, using examples from skiing and other personal stories to illustrate how life's ups and downs enhance our experiences. They discuss how contrast not only brings depth to life but also lets you appreciate the other side of things; for example, cold, challenging moments make warmth and comfort feel more rewarding. Ben talks about the importance of contrast in life, suggesting that both the challenges and rewards are what make experiences fulfilling. Gines reflects on his running journey and the need to stay focused on the end goal, even when things don't go as planned. Throughout the episode, Ben, Gines and Matt’s personal anecdotes and philosophical insights, encouraging listeners to appreciate the journey, remain adaptable, and understand that success often requires navigating between control and flexibility. They conclude by emphasizing the value of learning from each other's experiences and the continuous process of personal growth, staying aligned with the podcast's theme of lifelong learning. This episode is brought to you by Make It Happen Group performance coaching - makeithappengroup.org For more updates and to subscribe head to -lifelonglearnerpodcast.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lifelonglearnernow Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lifelonglearner.podcast Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz_HJXIvmwW7HfzhaOM0itQ

This is the global edition, Gines is tuning in from the US, Ben from Australia and Matt from Indonesia. Gines shares that he’s spending time at a lake house in upstate Minnesota, enjoying some family time in nature. Ben finds it interesting, pointing out that such homes are rare in Australia due to building regulations near bodies of water. As the conversation flows, Ben transitions the discussion to a thought-provoking question inspired by his son’s recent observations in America. His son, currently traveling through the U.S., has been struck by the stark contrast between the affluent coastal areas and the poverty-stricken zones inland, particularly a disturbing encounter on a long street in Denver, known for its socioeconomic challenges. This observation leads them to discuss the significant differences between the U.S., Australia, and Lombok. Matt reflects on his own experiences in places like Los Angeles and Paris, where wealth and poverty coexist side by side. He compares this with Lombok, where, despite lower living standards, there's a stronger sense of community and less visible inequality. This opens up a discussion on the true meaning of wealth and poverty. The conversation takes a deeper turn as Ben shares how fear influences different emotional responses, often leading to a scarcity mindset. The hosts discuss how in wealthier countries, the fear of losing material possessions can drive a focus on accumulation over community. This fear can lead to a scarcity mindset, where people concentrate more on what they lack rather than what they have. In contrast, in Southeast Asia, despite having less materially, there's often less fear and a greater emphasis on community and mutual support, leading to a richer, more fulfilling life. As the episode wraps up, the Ben, Gines and Matt reflect on the idea that true wealth lies in community, happiness, and a sense of purpose, rather than just material wealth. They emphasize the importance of balancing material success with the richness that comes from shared experiences and strong human connections. This episode is brought to you by Make It Happen Group performance coaching - makeithappengroup.org For more updates and to subscribe head to -lifelonglearnerpodcast.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lifelonglearnernow Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lifelonglearner.podcast Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz_HJXIvmwW7HfzhaOM0itQ hello@lifelonglearnerpodcast.com

In this deeply insightful episode, Gines, Matt, Ben, and special guest Ryan tackle a range of engaging and vital topics that resonate with anyone committed to personal growth and lifelong learning. They kick things off with a candid discussion about the impact of perimenopause on women's health. Drawing from a recent workshop that unveiled a comprehensive list of symptoms and the profound emotional toll it can take, they highlight the importance of acknowledging and addressing these often-overlooked issues. Despite having 25 registrants for the workshop, only a handful attended, which sparked a conversation about the common tendencies of denial and avoidance when it comes to confronting health issues, even when viable solutions are within reach. As the episode unfolds, the hosts delve into the transformative power of recognizing and embracing our shadows, flaws, and negative emotions. They discuss how facing these aspects of ourselves head-on can lead to significant personal growth, greater resilience, and more authentic connections with others. This segment emphasizes the need to move beyond denial and distractions, advocating for a path toward genuine self-improvement. The conversation doesn't stop there. Gines, Matt, Ben, and Ryan also stress the critical importance of self-reflection. They underscore the necessity of making time for introspection in our busy lives and the profound benefits it can bring. One key takeaway from this discussion is the value of regularly asking oneself, "What was not good today?" and being comfortable with not needing to immediately solve every issue. This practice fosters a deeper understanding of oneself and encourages a more mindful and accepting approach to personal challenges. This episode is brought to you by Make It Happen Group performance coaching - makeithappengroup.org For more updates and to subscribe head to -lifelonglearnerpodcast.com Facebook - www.facebook.com/lifelonglearnernow Instagram - www.facebook.com/lifelonglearner.podcast hello@lifelonglearnerpodcast.com

Gines, Matt and Ben bring you another episode of Life Long Learner, Out Of Class edition. Ben shares soon there will be more space in his world and the need for a hobby. The fellas dive into what is a hobby? Why do we have hobbies? What does it bring to you. The topic of Devotion vs Discipline does get brought up and the feeling of a hobby being a chore. What does your hobby bring you? This episode is brought to you by Make It Happen Group performance coaching - makeithappengroup.org For more updates and to subscribe head to -lifelonglearnerpodcast.com Facebook - www.facebook.com/lifelonglearnernow Instagram - www.facebook.com/lifelonglearner.podcast hello@lifelonglearnerpodcast.com

Gines, Ben, and Matt are back together for a more catch-up style episode. Matt shares they are very close to breaking ground in Lombok, however there is a 'gifting' process that needs to happen beforehand. Ben has yet another foot injury, listen to see if he chooses to wear his moon boot or not this time around with a bit more of a serious injury. Gines shares his recent "smash 'n' grab" trip to Texas for a good friend's wedding. Where he was there for just over 5 days and had something on each day. This episode is brought to you by Make It Happen Group performance coaching - makeithappengroup.org For more updates and to subscribe head to -lifelonglearnerpodcast.com Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/lifelonglearnernow Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/lifelonglearner.podcast Youtube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz_HJXIvmwW7HfzhaOM0itQ hello@lifelonglearnerpodcast.com