The Art of Brilliance Podcast

What if your biggest challenge isn’t change… it’s distraction?

In this episode, Andy returns to his favourite recording studio (the car) to explore plot twists, personal upgrades, and what happens when your epiphany strikes in Tesco.

You’ll meet a Greek hero with serious foresight, reflect on why happiness is too important to outsource, and learn a new word that might just be the secret to thriving in a distracted world… Eurythmia.

Tune in for supermarket wisdom, a realisation that you’re always stuck with yourself, and a reminder that the best version of you is always… well, you.

What if your harshest critic accidentally proved your point?

In this episode, Andy reads out a brutally honest one-star review of The Art of Being Brilliant - and somehow manages to laugh through it.

But the real star? A small purple alien called Gilbert, sent from Planet Glee where everyone is too happy (yes, there are consequences). Gilbert’s mission? To learn the secrets of human grumbling - and Andy’s got just the life advice for him.

Tune in for cosmic daftness, a masterclass in handling criticism, and a sideways look at what makes life messy, real, and actually worth it.

Is your goal big enough to wake you up at 3am?

In this episode, Andy rethinks goal-setting - from over-engineered watch ads to underwhelming SMART targets - and introduces a better way to dream big: WHOOP goals.

You’ll hear about deep-sea diving, exploded eyeballs, and a Japanese word that might just change how you set your next life mission?

Tune in for bold thinking, unexpected laughs, and a simple method to turn your wildest “one day…” into “right, let’s go.”

When was the last time you eye-rolled at something good?

In this episode, Andy takes on the madness of modern life - from mental health stats and exploding lightbulbs to what our ancestors might make of QR codes, vending machines, and 150 different brands of water.

Amid the chaos of a world changing at warp speed, he shares a brilliantly simple mindset shift that helps you spot the good stuff hiding in plain sight.

Tune in for big thoughts, a few laughs, and a ridiculously easy habit that might just help you thrive in the middle of the change-quake.

What if there’s nothing wrong with you… but everything wrong with your environment?

This week, Andy Cope tackles big questions about mental health, modern living, and whether humans—like zoo animals—might be suffering from a case of "zoochosis."

From a conversation with a GP to giraffes on Prozac, this episode explores the idea that maybe it’s not you that’s broken, but the world we’ve built around ourselves.

There’s a bit of science, a few stats, some eyebrow-raising therapy trends (yes, including one that involves drinking your own wee), and a powerful reminder of what Art of Brilliance has always been about: helping you unlearn what’s holding you back, and rediscover how to shine.

Tune in for fresh thinking, bold questions, and maybe—just maybe—a new way of looking at the chaos around you.

Is it fear... or something else?

In this episode, Andy chats about a conversation with an old friend and explores a few ideas about how we think, feel, and maybe overthink?

You’ll also get a glimpse into his brain mid-book-writing - complete with military metaphors, some very daft character names, and a few creative leaps that somehow tie it all together.

Tune in for a fresh perspective on worry, a smile or two, and maybe even a little shift in how you see the day ahead.

Would you grow younger if it meant growing apart?

This week, Andy Cope spins a magical tale – part fable, part rom-com, and 100% brilliant allegory – inspired by poet laureate Simon Armitage and delivered with a custard cream-sized sprinkle of mischief.

Meet Norman. He’s had a few pints, he’s tucked up in bed, and suddenly… a thumb-sized cherub appears with a once-in-a-lifetime offer… age backwards and relive your life, but with all the knowledge you’ve gained so far. Tempting, right? But there is a big twist.

What follows is a heartwarming (and slightly bonkers) story about love, ageing, sacrifice, and cats with a questionable attitude toward celestial beings. It's packed with humour, charm, and one of those endings that makes you go “Wait… WHAT?”

So, pop the kettle on, grab a biscuit, and enjoy a whimsical tale with a very human heart. Because sometimes growing old together is the greatest adventure of all.

What if therapy told you to keep doing the wrong thing?

This week, Andy Cope goes rogue. We’re talking Latin, coaching tips, powerful questions and a therapy style so cheeky it might just change your life.

Meet provocative therapy - a bizarre (but genius) form of counselling created by Frank Farrelly, where the therapist takes your worst habits, agrees with them loudly, and somehow leads you to your own breakthrough. It’s like traditional therapy… but with more sarcasm and a whole lot more “Did he really just say that?!”

Is it outrageous? A little. Would it work? We'll let you decide.

So, tune in for a fresh perspective, and maybe - just maybe - the nudge you need to stop talking about change and actually do something about it.

Faxi faxis, friends. If you’re going to do it, do it!

You’ve got 30 seconds with yourself from 20 years in the future. What would they say?

This week, Andy Cope takes things back to basics with a reminder of what positive psychology actually is - and why the Art of Brilliance exists in the first place. (Spoiler - it’s not just about bouncing around being happy all the time.)

In a world obsessed with fixing what’s wrong, Andy flipped the script and focused on the few who are doing life right - the two percenters. These are the people with that mysterious “something” - the spring in their step, the grin on a Monday, the low-key magical ability to make life look easy and make YOU feel great.

But this episode isn’t just a history lesson… Andy also takes us on a powerful visualisation exercise (no incense required) where you get to meet your future self. A future you, 20 years down the line, looking amazing, thriving, and totally owning life. And you get to ask them one, simple question.

So grab your headphones, take a breath, and get ready for a beautifully simple but game-changing message… most of us already know what we need to do. It’s just a matter of actually doing it.

Do you look like your job - or your dog?

This week, Andy Cope takes us from a Sunday morning tip run to a room full of Botox, beauty, and bold ideas.

Fresh off the back of speaking at a Aesthetics conference (read: 200 wrinkle-free, fabulous humans), Andy dives into what it’s like to be the only non-medical keynote speaker in a world of jawlines, lasers and lip fillers. But instead of playing it safe, he ditches the script and goes all in-humour, heart, and a gentle nudge into deeper territory.

What unfolds is part stand-up, part soul food. You’ll hear why people do start looking like their jobs (butchers, gym instructors and even keynote speakers), how laughter lines are actually worth keeping, and why your self-worth needs to go way deeper than your cheekbones.

With reflections on ethics, social media, and why some wrinkles are actually a badge of honour, this episode reminds us that real beauty isn’t skin deep - it’s etched in smiles, crow’s feet, and decades of joy.

So tune in, have a laugh, and maybe start seeing your laughter lines as life’s little love notes.

What do alligators, octopi and flamingos have to do with wellbeing?

This week, Andy Cope takes us on a wild ride from World Book Day to the power of culture and collective nouns (yes, really).

While dressed as a children’s author and not a PhD-level happiness expert, Andy finds himself in a school where something magical happens. Enter a superhero named Eli - a quiet lad who’s not keen on speaking in school. That is, until someone mentions collective nouns (his specialist subject). What follows is nothing short of extraordinary… and maybe a little emotional.

From a “congregation of alligators” to a “flamboyance of flamingos,” The big question is, what kind of collective are you part of? A low-level grumble... or a radiance of joy?

So, stick your headphones on for one of the most heartwarming episodes yet - and find out how being your own best mate, might just start with changing how you show up on a Monday morning.

Are you a caged canary or ready to fly?

This week, Andy is tackling one of life’s biggest questions - are you flapping around trying to climb the pecking order, or are you ready to break free and soar?

In this passionate (and slightly ranty) episode, Andy unpacks why life can sometimes feel like one giant canary cage, where stress sticks around like an unwanted guest, and happiness evaporates faster than your morning coffee.

He dives into the unfair battle between cortisol and positivity, the rise of anxiety in kids, and why most people are unknowingly reliving their worst moments on repeat.

He also is excited to introduce Brilliant Education Online, a game-changing platform designed to teach kids how to take charge of their own wellbeing - before they grow up thinking life is just one long Monday morning.

So, if you're ready to swap from survive to thrive, hit play and learn how to set yourself (and the next generation) up to soar.

What does it take to break free from autopilot and truly thrive?

This week Andy Cope is diving a bit deeper into the fascinating world of positive psychology and the mystical realm of the ‘two percenters’ - those rare people who are so full of life, they have more bounce than a toddler after a late-night sugar binge.

Andy spills the secrets of his PhD research (don’t worry, he’s removed the big words), revealing why positivity isn’t some magical unicorn - it’s a choice. A choice most people don’t even realise they have!

From conquering Monday blues to stepping into your personal ‘quest’ for flourishing, this conversation shows how you can spark a ripple effect of positivity wherever you go.

So, tune in and discover how to become the hero of your own story - while helping everyone around you shine just a bit brighter!

What does it take to stay strong in the face of life’s toughest challenges?

This week, Andy welcomes his son and fellow Art of Brill Trainer, Ollie Cope, for a fun and insightful conversation about resilience.

They kick things off by sharing the incredible story of Sir Adrian Paul Ghislain Carton de Wiart, a World War I soldier whose grit and determination were legendary.

From simple habits like counting backward from five to the Finnish concept of ‘Sisu,’ Andy and Ollie offer practical tips anyone can use to help build their resilience levels.

More than just bouncing back, they explore how true resilience fuels personal growth and everyday confidence.

Tune in to discover fresh techniques and inspiring stories that’ll help you become stronger and more adaptable in every area of life!

Ever feel like everyone’s watching your every move?

In this episode, Andy tackles the ‘Spotlight Effect’ - the surprising psychological tendency to overestimate how much attention others pay to us.

Think of that time you had a coffee stain on your coat and worried everyone would notice. Chances are, nobody did - most people are too focused on their own little mishaps. This tendency can undermine your self-esteem and limit your potential.

So, tune in to learn a bit more, discover a concept Andy calls “FOPO” and ultimately figure out how you can step out of your own spotlight, when you need to.

In this episode, Andy talks about anxiety and our relationship with it in today’s world.

Recognising the complexities of modern life, he highlights the importance of appreciating the present while acknowledging the challenges created by overstimulation, fake news, excessive screen time, and the never-ending buffet of convenience and overindulgence.

He shares a completely true, made-up story about a doctor who invents a cure for anxiety. It’s a tongue-in-cheek tale about the paradox of trying to eliminate worry - and the potential consequences of doing so.

This is a deep and thought-provoking episode, designed to spark honest discussion about anxiety and the wider pressures surrounding mental health. Whether it helps you manage anxiety a little better or recognise the importance of seeking proper support, this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode, Andy talks about courage, and how it’s not always what you think it is.

 From stepping outside your comfort zones and being brave and asking for help, to allowing yourself to be vulnerable and embracing a failure. It takes a lot of bravery to navigate the modern world, so this week, Andy talks through 10 truths about courage.

 So, if you don’t class yourself as someone who is particularly courageous, give this episode a listen. You might be pleasantly surprised.

Join Andy for a fascinating dive into the “Cobra Effect,” a real-life cautionary tale of how a British Raj’s well-intentioned bounty on cobras dramatically backfired.

This episode explores how our best efforts to fix or control situations - whether it’s curbing pesky snakes or managing our public image - can sometimes cause us more trouble than what we started with.

With examples ranging from Barbra Streisand’s unintended viral moment to a reflection on modern social media, this episode is a bit of a cage rattler, with some big thinking about how we manage mental health around the world.

Maybe a simple shift in perspective might just be the antidote?

Welcome to series 8 of the Art of Being Brilliant podcast!

In this episode, Andy discusses the importance of shining brightly in a world that can sometimes feel a bit dark.

Never missing the chance to use a good metaphor, Andy talks about light bulbs to illustrate how people can either dim their glow or illuminate their surroundings.

Ultimately, it's about the need for us all to embrace resilience and positivity (especially during challenging times) so that when everything is a bit dim, it's important for YOU to start shining, full beam.

Welcome to series 8 of the Art of Being Brilliant podcast!

We're joined by the Doctor of Happiness, Andy Cope, who loves to chat about all things happiness, personal development and wellbeing.

This episode, Andy talks about the importance of finding some fun in your life... whilst sharing a light-hearted take on traditional horoscopes.

Do you ever wish that life was just a little bit simpler? In this week's episode, Carl joins us to talk about... Paddington Bear.

Why? Because he's a true 2percenter - who manages to take his (rather unfair) share of challenges in his stride. He keeps things simple. So, this week's episode has a few tips (and a challenge) that will help you live a simpler life.

So if you find yourself constantly saying, "I just need things to calm down a bit"... this episode has been made for you.

This week, Andy asks "what hasn’t happened, that you didn't want, that you haven't celebrated"... er... what?

Maybe you went to the loo and there wasn't a crocodile in there? Maybe you drove to work and didn't get a flat tyre?

Look, we get it, It's a ridiculous question, but like all things Art of Brill, there is a clever twist to this story... so if you've got 5 minutes, Andy would love to explain how asking something daft like this, can help you have a MUCH better day.

Ever get the feeling that things just don't go to plan? Yeah, we've been there.

In this episode, let Flis take you through how a day in the holiday consisting of pyjamas, schedule changes and a nasty accident made her not just think twice about making plans... but share a few tips on how to deal with life when it starts running in the opposite direction.

Today, we're joined by positive psychologist Nikki Ayles, who is talking about the power of kindness.

Nikki explores how doing a random act of kindness to someone else, can actually boost our own happiness. When we do something kind, our brains release dopamine, making us feel great. Plus, the gratitude we receive amplifies this effect, enhancing our self-esteem and strengthening relationships.

So have a listen and be treated to some inspiring insights and examples of how a small act can make a big difference!

Welcome to episode 23. Today, Peter Anderton tackles the tricky issue of Mood Hoovers.

Mood Hoovers are those negative people in your life who are stuck in a bit of a grumpy mood and who constantly drain your energy.

Peter explains that while you can’t fix a Mood hoover, there are three powerful techniques to help you manage their impact on you and those around you.

This week, we welcome back Dr. Andy Cope! Andy takes us on a wild ride with a quirky news story and a thought-provoking message.

Did you hear about the man who joined a search party looking for himself? A bit ridiculous, isn't it? So on this week's episode, Andy has got a ridiculous challenge for you. It's super easy, especially if you're a Googlebox fan.

So tune in for a fun yet profound reminder to stop merely observing life and start actively participating in the vibrant, messy adventure it truly is.

Welcome to episode 21! This week, Ollie delves into how easy it is for actions to have unintended consequences.

He starts with the Streisand effect, where Barbra Streisand’s efforts to hide her mansion actually made it more famous. Then, Ollie explores how social media, designed to connect us, might be increasing social anxiety and division instead.

Ollie has some interesting thoughts on how to use social media as an addition to, not a replacement for, our real-world connections.

Welcome back to the Art of Being Brilliant Podcast. This week, Mike Martin takes us on a journey, quite literally, as he compares life to a challenging hike in the Welsh hills.

Mikey shares how the twists, turns, and steep climbs of the trail are a lot like our path to self-improvement. Just when you think you’ve reached the top, there’s always another hill to climb. But don’t worry, there’s a pub (or a rewarding break) at the end of every trek.

Tune in to hear Mike’s three key lessons on how to keep going, embrace new goals, and enjoy the endless adventure of becoming your best self.

Welcome to episode 19. This week we have Fliss Vivian talking about laundry.

You see, Fliss was looking at doing her laundry and noticed how there was a staggering quantity of socks that needed washing, every single week. And that was just the socks.

What's this got to do with positivity or happiness we hear you ask? Well, Fliss started to realise how laundry was a bit like life... so she decided to record this podcast and share with you a delightful little tip that will make managing both your laundry, and your life, that little bit easier.

Welcome to episode 18. Dr Andy is back this week to talk about flying frogs.

Andy is reading one of the pages from the new edition of the Art of Being Brilliant book, the parable of Clarence and Felix. It's a very short story about Clarence, who is trying to get Felix (a frog) to learn to fly... give it a listen, we're certain you'll be able to relate to it!

Welcome to episode 17. This week we're welcoming Art of Brilliance trainer Paul Field to the podcast table.

Paul is here to tell you all about his aftershave collection. He's got a few everyday go-to options, some gifted by family or friends, and a few bottles of the really swanky stuff that he saves for a special occasion.

Why you should spend 5 minutes listening to Paul talk about aftershave, I hear you ask? Because Paul figured out that his aftershave choices are quite similar to his attitude choices... Curious what he means? All is explained in this 5 minute podcast!

Welcome to episode 16. Dr Andy is back this week to talk about Sesame Street.

Why? Because he recently found out that season 1 and 2 of this adorable children's TV show has a warning that they "are not suitable for children"... why? You'll have to listen to find out!

Welcome to episode 15. Hannah Knowles is this week's podcast host and, unfortunately, she's got some bad news.

The bad news? Today, Hannah is pretty sure that something is going to go wrong for you. The good news though? Whilst you can't control what has gone wrong, you can choose how you react to it. She shares a few quick tips on how you can start doing this today.

Welcome to episode 14. We're back with Darrell Woodman, who is celebrating 13 happy years working with The Art of Brilliance.

To celebrate, Daz is reflecting on what his life was like before he read the Art of Being Brilliant book (new edition is out now by the way!) and shares with you how a strategy called "Three Good Things" can help you get out of a daily rut.

Welcome to episode 13. We're back with Dr Andy Cope as talks about destination addiction - he shares a story about the time he did a gig in Halifax and had to share a table with some year fives...

Welcome to episode 12. Today we're joined by Izzie Miller, who is talking about how our brain works.

Specifically, Izzie is interested in neurons - and how these little dots create connections inside your brain as you learn new things.

The clever bit? The more you do something, the stronger these connections become and the easier that thing becomes to do. The REALLY clever bit? This same principle can apply to how you think as well... meaning that it can become easier to think positively.

Welcome to episode 11. Today we're joined by Hannah Knowles with a short chat about something really important... Anxiety.

Anxiety is everywhere at the moment. You're probably feeling it yourself and if not, you'll definitely know someone who is.

So in this episode, Hannah gives us 5 really simple and quick tools to help us deal with it.

Welcome to episode 10. Today we're joined by Jonathan Peach, who wants to talk about the power of your beliefs.

JP believes that you're incredible, and you're capable of anything - but there is one thing that can constantly get in your way... and that's you.

Your beliefs are what will determine the sort of life you can have. Whether you believe you can or you can't, you're right.

So, how can you change your beliefs? It's as easy as A, B, C, D, E. Have a listen to learn more...

This week, we're back with Dr Andy Cope as he talks about the film Sixth Sense.

In short - it made Andy ask the question "Are you living... or are you alive?" Have a listen to see what he means...

Oh and spoiler alert, if you've not seen the film, you might want to give it a watch before listening to this super short podcast.

This week we're joined again by Art of Brill trainer, Kev House.

In this episode, Kev starts by telling a story about when he signed up for the New York marathon, despite being 4 stone overweight and having never exercised...

Mind over matter? Have a listen to find out how he managed it.

This week, we're back with Dr Andy Cope as he talks about Ready Brek...

Yeah that's the one, the cereal from the 80's. After watching a TV advert for Ready Brek, Andy realised that it was surprisingly relatable to modern life...

This week, we're back with Dr Andy Cope as he introduces the 10:5 principle to you.

Andy starts with a bit of a realisation that life can be a bit like "free from" foods... and that it should be enjoyed, not endured.

He also sets a bit of homework, challenging you to introduce the 10:5 principle into your life - it can feel a bit awkward (and you can't do it on the London Underground), but the results can be inspiring.

Legendary keynote speaker Kev House is a clever bloke who’s an expert in ‘life’ as well as being the Art of Brilliance resilience expert.

In this episode, Kev talks about the nagging voice in your head, the inner critic that we all have, and how to make it your friend instead of your enemy.

It’s about intentional energy, consistency and awareness. Kev motivates you to be braver and to try new things

Positive Psychology guru Hannah Knowles explains how marginal gains add up to a MASSIVE leap forward.

She shares lessons from GB cycling that went from zeros to heroes. One percent improvements led to gold medals, Tour de France winners, world champs… all achieved by the aggregation of marginal gains.

So much learning crammed into such a short podcast. Apply the learning to your life and you’ll be glad you listened

In podcast #2 Art of Brilliance trainer and growth mindset guru Will Hussey shares 5 things that he learned from running every single day for 500 days on the bounce.

Plot spoiler: the lessons are not really about running, they’re about life. Will talks about the difference between reasons and excuses.

Oh, and before you start, our podcast is strictly 5 minutes MAX, so although Will promises 5, he can only squeeze in 3, with the others coming in a follow-up

In this season’s gentle opener, Dr Andy Cope introduces you to his Guatemalan worry person.

There’s a serious point lurking in the quirkiness. This podcast will guarantee you a good night’s sleep

In this special Art of Brilliance "HARD TALK" Christmas Special, Dr Andy Cope takes a no-nonsense approach with our super special guest, Santa Claus.

They discuss various topics, starting with the overwhelming negativity in the news and Santa's defence of focusing on positive aspects of life. They touch on materialism and its impact on the planet, with Santa (of all people) suggesting a shift towards investing in experiences and relationships.

So what would you prefer for Christmas? Presents... or Presence?