In today's episode Part 1 of The Fearless Road, we dive into the leafy world of green gurus and botanical wizards!

Maria Failla, a plant killer turned plant lady, shares her inspiring journey of overcoming fear and cultivating a fearless mindset. We explore her transformation from struggling performer to thriving plant enthusiast and host of the top-rated houseplant podcast, Growing Joy with Plants.

Embark on a green-fingered journey with us as we sit down with the ever-radiant Maria Faella, who's left the bright lights of Broadway to illuminate the world of botany. From her humble beginnings as someone who couldn't keep a cactus alive, Maria has blossomed into a true plant savant, and she's here to share the soil of her wisdom. Together, we unpack her transformation and how, through nurturing her leafy friends, she's unearthed a wellspring of joy. And it's not just about the plants; Maria's insights weave through the importance of maintaining an open heart and the sweet - and sometimes savory - treats that make the journey of plant parenthood a delectable one.

Feel the soil beneath your fingers as we delve into the emotional tapestry that gardening weaves into our lives, often becoming a poignant reflection of our family ties and spiritual beliefs. Our conversation with Maria takes root in the very essence of human connection, as we explore how plants can become the living legacy of our loved ones, evoking memories and forging new friendships in the shared language of the botanical world. We also traverse the fertile ground of 'plantpreneurship', following Maria's footsteps from stage to seedling, and investigate how this shift harmonizes with age-old agricultural traditions and the deep-rooted culture of local farming communities, all while unearthing the courage it takes to cultivate a life-altering career change. Join us for this 3 part episode which promises to plant seeds of inspiration in the gardens of your mind.

Key Takeaways:

• How to find joy and connection through caring for plants
• Embracing a growth mindset to overcome fear
• The power of community and shared passions
• Uncovering hidden talents and unexpected career paths

Action Items:

• Gather your open heart, open mind, journal, dedicated window, and snacks!
• Reference page 8 of Maria's book, "Growing Joy with Plants" for her top tips
• Repurpose your unused items for plant care (think: ice tea as a mister!)
• Embrace the "crazy plant person" connection and find your tribe

Highlighted Quotes:

• "Sometimes the best wellness tools are the most affordable ones." - Maria Failla
• "I came for plants for the aesthetic, and I stayed for the wellness." - Maria Failla
• "The theater industry has its ups and downs. And I ended up connecting with this incredible community of plant people..." - Maria Failla

Excellent Reference Material:

• Book: Growing Joy with Plants by Maria Failla
• Podcast: Growing Joy with Plants

Season 2 Episode 01 Part 3
"Conquering Oceans and Fears: A Voyage with Karlis Bardelis" PART 3

In the concluison of Seson 2 Episode 1, we bring this epic journey with our fearless guest Karlis Bardelis to a close. But now wihtout getting interrupted by wild turkeys, a crashing computer and a phone that literally burns out!

The final part of the podcast episode summarizes Karlis Bardelis's most terrifying experience during his Indian Ocean rowing expedition. He planned to finish in Tanzania but ended up in Somalia due to strong currents and winds. Somalia is a dangerous place for foreigners because of terrorist groups like Al Shabab. Luckily, Karlis was able to secure a safe landing with the help of various authorities.

The podcast host then asks Karlis about his fear of public speaking. Karlis says he has a strong urge to share his stories and doesn't experience much fear when speaking on stage. He explains that he focuses on sharing the challenges he faced, the decisions he made, and the lessons he learned. He believes these relatable stories inspire people and give them hope.

Karlis also shares that he is planning to write a book about his adventures. He says he will only include the stories that he can remember vividly after several years because he believes those are the most impactful ones to share.

The episode concludes with Karlis giving a message to the listeners. He paraphrases a quote from Viktor Frankl's book "Man's Search for Meaning": "Between stimulus and response there is a space. In that space lies our freedom to choose our response. And in that choice lies our growth and our freedom." Karlis emphasizes the importance of choosing our attitude in any given circumstance. He believes this is the most valuable lesson he has learned from his expeditions.

Takeaways:

1. Fear can be turned into fuel for achieving goals.
2. Challenges and setbacks can be catalysts for growth and change.
3. The entrepreneurial journey, while risky, won't cost lives like a failure in the middle of the ocean.
4. One's mind has an incredible ability to devise solutions in dire situations.
5. Adventure and exploration can lead to personal fulfillment.
6. Even ordinary individuals with regular jobs can embark on extraordinary adventures.
7. Pursuing one's passion can lead to a more fulfilling life.
8. Fear and obstacles are universal, but they can be overcome.

Quotes:

1. "How does someone become fearless? That's exactly what we're going to find out."
2. "I love that this puts these things into perspective for us."
3. "Your mind will really come up with ways to save your ass in some of these situations."
4. "I'm a Googler. I Googled how to row an ocean. So that's how you start."

Season 2 Episode 01
"Conquering Oceans and Fears: A Voyage with Karlis Bardelis" PART 2

In the heart-pounding second part of Season 2, Episode 1, we continue our riveting conversation with host Michael Devous and guest, the intrepid Karlis Bardelis. Having ignited the spark of adventure within us last time, Karlis is now poised to take the helm and guide us through the perilous yet exhilarating process of preparing for an epic ocean row. Will his unwavering spirit conquer the anxieties of the unknown? Will his meticulous planning be enough to tame the fury of the Atlantic? Hold tight as we witness the raw determination it takes to transform a dream into a breathtaking odyssey. This is The Fearless Road, and Karlis Bardelis is about to show us the true meaning of courage in the face of the vast unknown.

Inspired by Thor Heyerdahl's quote about the non-existence of borders in his mind, Karlis reflects on the limitations he's encountered in his own life and how he navigates them. He discusses his fear of certain activities, such as ski jumping, despite his fascination with them. Karlis emphasizes the importance of following one's excitement rather than succumbing to fear, sharing his philosophy of taking small steps toward goals rather than leaping into the unknown. He and the host, Michael, discuss the significance of celebrating small victories on the journey to personal growth and achievement.

Karlis then shares details of his first rowing adventure, which took him from Namibia to Brazil across the Atlantic Ocean. Despite minimal testing of the boat beforehand, Karlis and his team embarked on the journey, prepared with basic safety training and navigation skills. He reflects on the support of friends and family, who sometimes questioned his decisions but ultimately stood by him. Karlis emphasizes the importance of following curiosity and excitement, which has led him to unexpected opportunities such as public speaking about his adventures. As they wrap up part two, Karlis and Michael preview the next installment, where Karlis will share more about his first ocean rowing expedition. Stay tuned for part three to hear about Karlis's journey across the Atlantic.

Key Takeaways:

1. Follow your excitement: Karlis emphasizes the importance of pursuing activities that excite you rather than succumbing to fear or limitations.
2. Celebrate small victories: Karlis highlights the significance of acknowledging and celebrating the small steps taken towards personal growth and achievement.
3. Preparation is key: Despite minimal testing of his boat, Karlis embarked on his first rowing adventure with basic safety training and navigation skills, showcasing the importance of preparation.

Quotes:

1. "Borders. I have never seen one, but I have heard that they exist in the minds of some people." - Thor Heyerdahl (quoted by Karlis Bardelis), highlighting the concept of mental borders and limitations.
2. "I was following this curiosity, where this excitement of doing the things that I really kind of feel connected." - Karlis Bardelis, emphasizing the importance of following one's excitement and curiosity.
3. "One kilometer, one hour, one meter is the same for me. I'm human being. So it's the same for me. So it's the same for you, listener, for you who watches, this is the same." - Karlis Bardelis, emphasizing the equality of time and opportunities for personal growth.
4. "Have a backup for your backup, 'cause that could save you." - Karlis Bardelis, highlighting the importance of preparation and contingency planning in challenging endeavors.
5. "I was following this excitement, and I saw that, 'Oh yes, I like to speak. I like to share my story.'" - Karlis Bardelis, reflecting on how following his excitement led him to unexpected opportunities like public speaking about his adventures.