Episode Title: Embracing the Present Moment
Host: Gordon Bruin
Introduction
Early morning reflections from South Florida.
Balancing roles as a mental health therapist and pastor for young adults.

Key Themes:

The Power of Reflection

Utilizing technology, like iPhones, to capture life's moments akin to journaling.
The joy and love found in family interactions, especially with grandchildren.

Living in the Now

Observations on how we often rush towards future moments instead of savoring the present.
The importance of setting goals while appreciating current experiences.

Life's Fragility and Uncertainty

Stories illustrating sudden life changes through injuries in sports.
Encouragement to find gratitude in functioning bodies and everyday blessings.

Mindfulness Practice

Insights from Eckhart Tolle’s "The Power of Now" emphasizing living fully in each moment.
Strategies for processing past traumas while maintaining hope for the future through therapy options like EMDR.

Spiritual Reflections

Exploring life's purpose beyond this existence; focusing on integrity, honor, and moral discernment.
Navigating societal pressures against judgment while upholding personal values of right and wrong.

Cherishing Relationships

Recognizing relationships as central to meaningful living.
Urging listeners to be present with loved ones today rather than longing for past or future times.
Conclusion
A call to action: make today your best day yet by embracing every moment mindfully and lovingly engaging with those around you.

Make sure you tune into our next episode where we'll dive deeper into mindfulness practices! Don't forget to subscribe, rate us 5-stars if you enjoyed today's discussion, and share your thoughts on social media using #PresentMomentPodcast!

Stay connected:

Instagram: @gordonbruin
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/innergold

Thank you for listening!

Show Notes: The Power of Internal Dialogue

Episode Overview:
In this enlightening episode, we delve into the transformative power of internal dialogue and its profound impact on our mental health and relationships. Inspired by Bruce Lee's wisdom, we explore how changing the way we speak to ourselves can alter our lives.

Key Topics Discussed:

The Influence of Words:

Highlighting Bruce Lee’s quote on self-talk: "Do not speak negatively about yourself even as a joke. Your body doesn't know the difference."
Understanding words as energy that cast spells—why it's called spelling.

Case Study in Relationships:

A couple struggling with recurring conflicts due to negative self-dialogue.
How shifting their focus internally led to temporary harmony but was undermined by lingering fears.

Therapeutic Insights:

The therapist's role in guiding individuals to recognize and change harmful thought patterns.
Importance of addressing negative predictions before they manifest into reality.

Mind vs. Brain Dynamics:

Differentiating between the mind (intelligence) and brain (habitual wiring).
Limbic system’s role in survival instincts leading to negativity bias.

Practical Strategies for Change:

Techniques for hitting the 'reset button' on negative thoughts.
Transforming stress into excitement through positive affirmations.

Concepts from Tom Shea's "Unbreakable":

Introduction to 'adamantine': intangible resilience built through positive thinking.

Actionable Takeaways:

Monitor Self-Talk: Regularly check your internal dialogue for negativity or limiting beliefs.

Positive Predictions: Consciously predict favorable outcomes instead of dwelling on past failures or fears.

Reset Negative Thoughts: Quickly pivot from stress-inducing thoughts towards constructive ones using mindful awareness techniques.

Empower Yourself: Recognize that you hold the key to improving your mental well-being through conscious effort and mindset shifts.

Closing Thought: Bruce Lee reminds us, “Change the way you speak about yourself, and you change your life.” Embrace positivity in both current circumstances and future possibilities for lasting personal transformation.

Stay tuned for more episodes where we unravel insights into building a healthier mind! 🌟

Podcast Show Notes
Episode Title: Finding Joy in Service and Community Connection
Host: Gordon Bruin
Episode Overview:

In this heartfelt episode, our host reflects on the profound experience of serving others amidst challenging times. Inspired by a quote from C.S. Lewis, the discussion centers around community service following recent hurricanes in South Florida, emphasizing love, connection, and personal growth through adversity.

Key Topics Discussed:

C.S. Lewis Quote Reflection:

The importance of moving beyond superficial happiness to find deeper connections through love and service.

Community Service Experience:

Volunteering with young single adults (ages 20-35) to aid hurricane victims.
Collaboration with volunteers from Atlanta joining efforts in South Florida.

Personal Insights & Challenges:

Overcoming initial reluctance to serve due to fatigue and busyness.
Discovering renewed energy and joy through physical labor alongside peers.

The Power of Collective Effort:

Building stronger relationships during six hours of intense work than years spent attending church together.

Lessons from Adversity:

How suffering can drive us out of isolation into meaningful community interactions.

Encouragement for Listeners:

Urging listeners not to wait for catastrophes but actively reach out with vulnerability and positive intent towards neighbors.
Memorable Quotes:
"Are you sure God wants us to be happy? I think he wants us to love and be loved." — C.S. Lewis
"You learn who another person is when you're out struggling with them."
"If you want pure joy, get outside yourself; dive in."
Listener Takeaways:
Embrace opportunities for service as a path toward genuine connection and understanding within your community.
Recognize that true fulfillment often comes from stepping outside comfort zones and engaging deeply with others' challenges.
Call To Action:

Reflect on how you can contribute positively within your own neighborhood or community today—whether through organized events or simple acts of kindness—and see what transformative experiences await!

Stay connected for more inspiring stories about finding purpose through action! Subscribe now wherever you listen to podcasts!

Mastering Temptation and Triggers

Episode Title: Understanding and Managing Triggers with the 10 Commandment Questions

Episode Summary

In this episode, we delve into strategies for managing triggers and temptations that go against your moral values. We explore how different parts of our brain play a role in these moments, discuss the BLAST acronym from addiction recovery, and introduce the 10 Commandment Questions as a tool to help you navigate challenging situations.

Key Topics Covered:
The Two-Part Brain Model
Prefrontal Cortex: Rational, logical part of our brain responsible for morals and values.
Limbic Regions: Emotional, impulsive part focused on avoiding discomfort and seeking pleasure.
Understanding Triggers
Introduction to the BLAST acronym:
Bored
Lonely
Angry
Stressed
Tired
Case Study Insight
Real-life example of a client overcoming an online material addiction by using mindfulness techniques.
The Power of Awareness
Importance of paying attention to thoughts.
How awareness helps keep the rational brain in control over impulses.
The Ten Commandment Questions for Relapse Prevention:
Will acting on this temptation bring me long-term satisfaction or instant gratification?
What will be the end result if I act on this temptation?
If I choose to act on this temptation, will it make my life better or worse?
Do I take full responsibility for my actions or do I blame others/make excuses?
Can I trust myself enough to reach out for help so I'm not alone in this struggle?
Is there a part of me that wants to walk away from this situation?
Can I choose to follow that part which wants to walk away?
Will walking away give me peace now or later?
Would I feel better about myself tomorrow if I didn't act out today?
Will honoring my rational mind encourage me more than giving into impulse?
Practical Tips:
Acknowledge your emotions without judgment.
Use questions as tools to shift focus from emotional responses back towards rational thinking.
Conclusion:

Refer back to these questions anytime you face triggers or temptations; they can be instrumental in guiding you through difficult moments while helping maintain integrity with your core values.

Stay tuned for more episodes where we continue exploring effective strategies toward self-mastery!

Subscribe Now | Leave a Review

For additional resources visit our website at GordonBruin.com.

Empower yourself one question at a time.

Show Notes: Navigating Through Hurricane Milton
Episode Overview

Join us as we delve into the aftermath of Hurricane Milton, which swept through Siesta Key, Florida. Our host shares personal experiences and insights gained from living through a natural disaster and emphasizes the importance of community, resilience, and maintaining a positive mindset in challenging times.

Key Takeaways
Experiencing the Eye of the Storm
Direct Hit: The hurricane's eye passed directly over Siesta Key near Sarasota.
Eerie Experience: Encountering such powerful forces firsthand was both eerie and enlightening.
Life After the Hurricane
Disruption & Scarcity: Post-hurricane life saw grocery stores emptied and long lines for gas.
Community Spirit: Despite challenges, people came together with kindness and support.
Resilience in Crisis
Unexpected Unity: Disasters often bring neighbors closer; new bonds were formed post-storm.
Preparedness is Key: Encouragement to be ready for crises before they hit.
Mental Health & Positivity
Attitude Matters: It's not what happens but how you respond that defines your experience.
Inspiration from Nature: Like a spider rebuilding its web after destruction—focus on action rather than despair.
Community Efforts & Personal Stories
Collective Action: 20 volunteers helped clear debris at an elderly neighbor’s house.
Overcoming Physical Challenges: People worked tirelessly despite injuries or difficulties.
Philosophical Insights
Inspired by Marcus Aurelius' quote:
"Impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way."
Inspirational Message

Our host encourages listeners to adopt a can-do attitude no matter what life throws their way. Embrace positivity, maintain humor, refuse victimhood, and continue moving forward with hope. Remember that every challenge presents an opportunity for growth and connection within communities.

Stay tuned for more stories of resilience and inspiration as we navigate life's unpredictable paths together! ```

Podcast Show Notes: Discovering Your Beliefs and Standing Firm

Episode Overview
In today's episode, we delve into the profound questions of self-belief and values amidst the current societal tumult. Our host discusses how political unrest, mental health challenges, and spiritual battles intersect in our daily lives.

Key Takeaways:
- **Self-Reflection Process**: The importance of grounding oneself physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
- **Influence & Decision Making**: Understanding the forces that influence our beliefs and decisions.
- **Mental Health Insight**: Exploring anxiety responses (fight, flight, freeze, collapse) within a chaotic world.
- **Spiritual Warfare**: The concept of spiritual battles affecting mental health.

Grounding Techniques:
1. **Physical Check-In**: Assess your body's state from head to toe.
2. **Emotional Awareness**: Identify words that describe your emotional state.
3. **Spiritual Reflection**: Contemplate your life's purpose and mission.

Influences on Beliefs:
- Historical perspectives by Thomas Jefferson on party differences since government establishment.
- Importance of integrating gut instincts with rational thinking for balanced decision-making.

Mental Health Strategies:
- Recognizing anxiety-inducing thoughts as part of larger influences aiming to instill fear.
- Encouragement to be strong-minded and independent in facing fears.

Fight-or-flight Responses Explained:
1. Fight
2. Flight
3. Freeze
4. Collapse

Building Self-Esteem through Meritocracy:
The necessity of hard work and resilience—embracing failures as learning opportunities to build confidence.

Inspirational Quotes & References:
1. Marcus Aurelius - "What stands in the way becomes the way."
2. Biblical Reference - Moses' advice to Joshua about courage (Deuteronomy 31:6).

Final Thoughts
Listeners are encouraged to introspect their beliefs critically—are they truly theirs or influenced by others? Embrace stillness for clarity on personal convictions without succumbing to external pressures or fears.

---

Stay tuned for more insights into navigating life’s complexities with strength and conviction!

Show Notes: Embracing Authenticity and Courage
Episode Summary

In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into the timeless wisdom of Shakespeare's quote, "This above all: to thine own self be true," and explore its profound relevance in today's world. We discuss Bronnie Ware's influential book The Top 5 Regrets of the Dying and focus on the most common regret she encountered: not having lived a life true to oneself.

Key Points Discussed

Shakespeare’s Wisdom:

The importance of being true to oneself.
How authenticity leads to living without regrets.

Bronnie Ware’s Journey:

Transition from unfulfilling work to palliative care.
Insights gained from working with dying patients.

Top Regret of the Dying:

Wishing for the courage to live authentically.
Common expressions of frustration from those nearing death about not following their own path.

Living Authentically Today:

Encouragement for listeners still alive with time left to change.
Importance of bravery and internal dialogue in overcoming negative thoughts.

Mindfulness & Mental Health:

Strategies like positive affirmations and confronting negative thoughts.
Thomas Jefferson's perspective on mental tyranny.

Philosophical Reflections:

Belief in a divine purpose and eternal existence shaping our character development.
Balancing intellect with virtues like honesty, integrity, patience, kindness, endurance, forgiveness, hard work.

Practical Advice:

Examining personal beliefs versus societal expectations. – Using meditation, journaling, prayer for introspection and guidance.

Overcoming Challenges & Addictions: – Understanding struggles as part of growth rather than abandonment by higher power – Emphasis on resilience despite adversities

9 . Final Thoughts : – Living without fear or victim mentality , embracing each day anew

Quotes Highlighted
“I wish I had the courage to live a life true to myself.”
“Character is more important than intellect.”
Call To Action

Reflect deeply on your own life choices—are they truly yours or shaped by external pressures? Take steps today towards living an authentic life guided by inner truth rather than societal expectations.

Resources Mentioned
Book: The Top 5 Regrets Of The Dying by Bronnie Ware
Connect With Us!

Follow us on social media [@YourPodcastHandle] for more insightful episodes!