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The Blueprint

The Blueprint

By Andrew Lord

How do you live life to the full?
How do you make a positive difference?
On The Blueprint we explore a wide variety of principles and expressions of 'success' from parents, educators and entrepreneurs who refuse to settle for 'ordinary' and who are now using different styles of education to scale their success in the community.
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Suddenly Homeschooling - Secrets of Success - Day 3

The BlueprintMar 26, 2020

00:00
08:38
A plan to tick year 10 boxes for homeschooling

A plan to tick year 10 boxes for homeschooling

My daughter, Lily, recently came to me because she was interested in getting her 10-year accreditation for homeschooling. My initial reaction was "Why?"

She's 16 and she's currently studying beauty therapy at TAFE after graduating from hairdressing. She doesn't really need the Year 10 certificate since she already has one Cert III, and is in the process of getting another one  - and these are MUCH more valuable if she ever decides to apply for tertiary education, but I get it. She's been homeschooling for 10 years and wants this certificate more as recognition - a 'right of passage'. Acknowledgement that she's done it. That's important a young person. And so, if it's important to her, then it's important to me.

As we were planning for this, I thought about the conversations that I've been having with Ortal Green, our guest on last week's podcast about Project-Based Learning (PBL), design thinking, and the PBL homeschool conference that we're organising together. We want to help parents and homeschoolers to take a more holistic approach to education and use design thinking as a framework for doing this.

But on the other hand, I'm always in the middle of trying out new, outside-the-box ideas in giving the best education for my children and what NESA requires of homeschoolers. That's why for this podcast episode, I'd like to share with you the homeschool plan that I did with Lily to help her with her interview and getting her certificate. You might find this useful for your own homeschool program.

Aug 21, 202227:20
Think Unique - with Ortal Green

Think Unique - with Ortal Green

In the process of writing my book and meeting people to make it the best it can be, book coach Kylie Zeal, our last week's guest, introduced me to Ortal Green! Ortal is the CEO and founder of Glittering Minds, a movement that aims to empower teachers and parents in creating tomorrow's innovators and great thinkers. She recently published her second book "Thinking Unique: Raising a Successful Innovative Child".

Ortal is a design thinker and creativity expert. She started her career in the tech industry in Israel where she helps advance technology for the future. When she became a mother, she was curious as to what her children were learning at school. Through volunteering at the school, she found out that there is a clear gap between what was taught in the education system today in terms of skills that children need to learn to succeed in the future with its uncertainties and unknowns. The rapid pace of technological advancement means that the jobs that we have now are evolving and new types of jobs are popping up every day. Because of this, she decided to close this gap by teaching children design thinking as a way to develop 21st-century skills such as creative thinking, innovative mindset, collaboration, problem-solving, and critical thinking.

She helps home educators and teachers with project-based learning so that children can be better learners and more empowered. Through design thinking, she uses a combination of mindset approaches, tools, and methodologies to solve problems in an innovative way. Her problem-solving approach is human-centric, meaning she works WITH the people who face the problem and does not solve it for them.

Ortal shared the idea and process behind design thinking and how at a young age, we can give our children a better chance of being successful in the future. In this interview, she answered some questions like:

  • What is design thinking and what does it consist of?
  • How can parents and educators start their journey of helping the children develop these skills? How can parents better provide an environment where children can learn those skills?
  • What is the difference between design thinking and other frameworks for learning?
  • What is success for her as an educator and advocate of design thinking?

My interview with Ortal Green opened up all sorts of new possibilities. The overlap of design thinking and project-based learning and achieving success in life is something worth sharing. So if you want to be a better parent, a better guide for your child, one of the best ways to do that is to learn how to become a creative-based educator. Check out Ortal Green's Glittering Minds program and website where you can access the free resources that they share.

Visit Ortal Green's books and Glittering Minds Program:

Visit Glittering Minds

Read Ortal Green's book "Thinking Unique: Raising a Successful Innovative Child"

Aug 15, 202229:27
Insights from a Book Coach - with Kylie Zeal

Insights from a Book Coach - with Kylie Zeal

I've been busy the past twelve months writing THRIVE BY DESIGN, and not long after the manuscript was finished, a contact of mine introduced me to an amazing book coach! (just a little late!) But even though she normally helps move people from idea to finished manuscript, as a twice published author, she's still been super helpful. An abundance of knowledge and insight, I thought I'd love to introduce you to her in case YOU are getting ready to write YOUR BOOK!

Meet Kylie Zeal.

Kylie was attracted to positive psychology, which then led her to coaching, which she's been doing for fourteen years now. She has done executive coaching and health coaching in the past but decided to focus on book coaching after publishing two books and realising her love of immersing in stories and words. She wants to help people create wonderful books to put out into the world.

In this interview, she shared about her journey in writing her own books, which hopefully can inspire you to write your own as well.

  • What are her favorite books and how did they impact her life
  • How did the experience of writing her first book go and how did it inform and improve her next books?
  • How different is writing fiction from non-fiction?
  • How does she define success as an author?
  • How does she define her client's success as a book coach?

As someone who is at the end of publishing a book, I really appreciate the nuggets of wisdom that she's been able to offer and I wish I knew some of those sooner. It was really great talking to Kylie. If you are thinking about writing a book, or that maybe you might have a book in you, I urge you to connect with Kylie. She's easy to talk to, generous with her time, honest, and candid and tells you exactly what you need to know. I highly recommend her ability to help you to sort through those big questions about whether you should go on and write your book.

To learn more about Kylie's Book Coaching:

Follow Kylie Zeal on Facebook

Visit Kylie's website

SIGN UP FOR THRIVE BY DESIGN UPDATES!

Jul 20, 202235:39
Promoting Health & Wellbeing - with Jules
Jul 14, 202230:08
Zen and the Art of Education

Zen and the Art of Education

I am not a Buddhist, but I am very interested in the concepts explored by Eastern religion and philosophy. The concepts are more holistic, and they are very applicable to everyday living. In fact, that's what they're all about - finding the divine in the ordinary.

In this episode we are going to be looking at 'Zen' and how this can be applied to the experience of education.

'Zen' is not a religion in the traditional sense. It is not a set of principles or dogmas that you adhere to, but its focus is on what the Zen Studies Society calls 'an ultimate reality' - it is life in its fullest sense - the maximised life we seek out here on the Blueprint.

When we think of 'education' we usually think of the structures. The building, or at least the formalised social framework where learning is supposed to take place. Teachers. Students. Classrooms... But not a lot of thought is given to those divine moments of connection when all of that external structure 'disappears' and a student becomes one with the content they are studying. It's a magical experience, that unfortunately is all too rare in the traditional educational setting.

Due to the mass-production style of education we have adopted, the focus has shifted from transforming young people - to managing young people. The underlying premise is that structured learning cannot happen in a chaotic environment, therefore structures are put in place to ensure that the learning environment is as controlled as possible - unfortunately this also squeezes out individuality, which in turn reduces engagement! The very structures that we put in place to help young people to learn - stop them from owning the experience.

In this episode we are going to explore the vital importance of 'leaving spaces' for learning to happen - sure we can have structures that promote positive behaviours BUT how can we do this without 'sterilising' and destroying the natural curiosity that students inherently carry?

Jul 04, 202222:34
I think this will help...

I think this will help...

March has traditionally been a watershed month for me.

Lots of my big shifts have happened around this time of year.

I’m wondering is that the same for you?

When I Googled ‘why is March significant’, it all referred to the Northern Hemisphere.

Things like, ‘animals are waking up from hibernation’ (remember Punxsutawney Phil from Ground Hog Day?), and March is named after the Roman god of war, because all the military campaigns that went on hold for the winter, now swung back into full force!

But that doesn’t make sense here does it?

Here, in March, I find energy is starting to wane, and people are simultaneously looking up and asking, "OMG, what happened to the year? How is it March already?!"

All the good intentions that motivated us through January and February have now been spent, and we're left asking “Is this really it? Why am I feeling so empty? What am I missing?"

When you get to that point, you’ve got 2 options.

1) Tell yourself to shut up. Get busier until you have drowned that nagging sense of dissatisfaction with activity. Meaningless or otherwise.

2) Give yourself a minute, take a breath and sit a moment with those uncomfortable questions and to try and find an answer.

We ALL need an answer. We exist in to realms simultaneously. The natural realm (what you can see/smell/taste/touch) and the higher realm (spiritual?). We operate in both. We all need to find our bigger reason, and then a practical lifestyle plan to carry it out. Make sense?

Can you imagine what clear-minded, confident and deliberately intentional about how you choose to spend your time, looks and feels like?

Have you already achieved this? Or is there still elements missing?

This is a season for building inwardly. You can fight it, or you can flow with it.

Fighting means you keep 'spinning your wheels', faster and faster until you either A) burn out and crash, or B) somehow make it through to the twilight of life – 50 or so years later, wondering where it all got spent…

That’s would be a shame. I don’t want that for you.

Last year I put together a series of podcast episodes inspired by my upcoming book (yes, it’s nearly done!) and these were reflective exercises designed to help get you closer to answering those questions. Interestingly, they are all from the autumn months last year!

I’ve put these all together below and created a free downloadable guide – The First 3 Questions I’d Ask You if I was your Coach - to help get your reflections started. I’m sure these will be helpful as the days get shorter and we’re reminded that days are finite. On that guide there’s also a link you can use to book a free coaching call with me if you’d like to take those 3 questions a little deeper.

Hope to talk to you soon,

EPISODE 49 – Travelling through Time!

EPISODE 50 – The Wheel of Life

EPISODE 56 – A Quantum Leap

EPISODE 57 – Overcome the ONE thing that is stopping you…

PS: you don’t need to listen to all the episodes, just one will be enough to get you thinking deeply!

Mar 14, 202208:20
At What Cost - Exploring the untold consequences of government restrictions

At What Cost - Exploring the untold consequences of government restrictions

I honestly thought that I would be kicking off 2022 with a different episode.

There is so much going on behind the scenes here, getting ready for a new year of transforming lives. Blueprint Life Coaching's Youth programs have finally branched off and become their own entity - Blueprint Education Solutions - if you're a parent, educator or youth coach, I highly recommend that you check that out.

But TODAY we're catching up with SJ (Sean) Stark from Contrast Media who has been working tirelessly to tell the many untold stories of the pandemic crisis that are still reverberating through our community.

I WISH, so badly, that we could just leave 2020/2021 behind, but the impacts are still so real. Lives and livelihoods have been devasted - and most of the victims are suffering in silence. Mainstream media is unwilling to risk telling these stories because,

1) They are making money from covid. They don't want to risk killing the golden goose! Newsmedia is part of an industry built on fear, and a pandemic is a gift not to be wasted! The newsmedia knows all too well the role they must play in perpetuating the cycle. Research shows that we all have a negativity bias in our brains - we believe and expect 'bad news' about 5 times as much as we believe and expect 'good news'. You'll see about the same ratio of negative to positive news stories every evening on your television at 6 o'clock - a carefully curated selection designed to echo the perception of reality that is hardwired into our biology. This is not an accident. Nor is it reality.

2) And Secondly, in this sort of climate, asking simple questions can easily be misconstrued as disention, rebellion, and even treason! A barage of confusing oxy-moronic slogans have begun to flow freely. Phrases like, "we need to stay apart to stay together". Dismayingly these are being swallowed en-mass by the general public.

But there are others who continue to raise questions.

SJ is one of those. A brave individual, willing stand up, tell the untold stories, and ask the question - "At What Cost?"

This conversation with SJ is based on the premise that governments ARE doing the best they can with the resources that they have available. It does NOT suppose that there is some maligned agenda driving the idiocy behind some of the inherent contradictions embeded in the restrictions and mandates - however it DOES ask the question - at what cost? What sort of society do we want to be, and, are the measures that are being put in place promoting that sort of society? Or are they pulling it apart?

Jan 17, 202229:08
3 brand new resources for parents and educators - with Marianne & Jenna from the Posify Group

3 brand new resources for parents and educators - with Marianne & Jenna from the Posify Group

Today we are back again with the amazing sister duo behind the Posify group.

Marianne and Jenna.

Both of these women have effervescent energy and are on a mission to help young people flourish! We've worked together on a number of projects and we’ve had the privilege of having them in episodes 19, 20, and 28.

Marianne is a Clinical Psychology registrar (I made a little error in her intro that she asked me to note.😊 ) She holds a Master's degree from the University of Newcastle, a Graduate Diploma in counseling and psychotherapy, and a Bachelor of Arts majoring in performance.

Jenna—who describes herself as a prod 'multipotentialite', is a teacher and careers advisor, with a Bachelor of Creative Arts (Drama & Performance), Bachelor of Education (K-12), and Graduate Certificate in Education Studies (Careers & Transitions).

In this episode, they’re back with some exciting updates and not one, but THREE brand new resources to share with us! It's a brilliant conversation packed with countless nuggets of wisdom and awesome resources to help turn your homeschool program or your classroom into a highly engaging space.

Time to share...

Dec 12, 202156:17
One families epic health journey and the importance of freedom to make our own health choices - with Bruce Thompson

One families epic health journey and the importance of freedom to make our own health choices - with Bruce Thompson

Today, we are speaking with Bruce Thompson who has been on an epic health journey finding health for his son, Ori, learning all about the brain and gut connection and why it is vitally important that individuals be allowed to make the personal health choices that are right for them.

Ori's story is one of redemption. From severely autistic, constantly ill, immunocompromised, and always distressed, Ori has slowly but surely made consistent positive progress and is now a healthy, happy child with no sickness at all. He is still diagnosed on the autism spectrum, but has come ahead leaps and bounds since the Thompson family began to rethink their approach to health.

It was an uphill battle. They were repeatedly told by mainstream medical professionals to just learn to live with it. There is no hope. But thankfully there were other wise voices in their world and through them, Bruce and his wife Nurit discovered a new way of looking at health.

Theirs an incredible story, but I know it's not a one-off case. There are hundreds, perhaps thousands of children and adults who have faced similar challenges. I want to share this with you today because right now, I have friends and colleagues who are being bullied by their employer, the NSW government. They are teachers and nurses being threatened with termination if they choose not to participate in Australia's biggest clinical drug trial. They want to reserve their right to refuse this medical treatment without threat of repercussion, and I firmly believe they should do what they can to preserve this right. This blog is simply doing what I can to help them be heard.

If you find yourself feeling unheard, oppressed, and you want to break free from a system that has lost its way - I can help you. 6 years ago I embarked on my own journey of personal development and lifestyle design, and now I help others to do the same!

For the next few weeks I'm opening up my calendar and taking calls for people who want to turn catastrophe into opportunity. I can show you how. There IS hope for your future and there's a lot that we can do together!

Let's listen to Ori's story...

Nov 22, 202130:18
Mastering Calm Living - for ourselves, our families and our schools - with Angela Lockwood

Mastering Calm Living - for ourselves, our families and our schools - with Angela Lockwood

Today, we are talking with a leading authority on calm parenting. She’s the author of two business self-help books, The Power of Conscious Choice, and Switch Off: How to Find Calm in a Noisy World. She’s an occupational therapist who has been working in schools for about 20 years now and has one key mission: to help young people live a little better and to support the adults doing the same - teachers, mentors and, of course, parents.

Angela and I were booked to deliver a parenting seminar together, but to be honest, coming into this interview I was hungry to learn from her. I felt a needed a 'calm guru' in my corner this week - and I wasn't disappointed. Angela knows her stuff. She's been featured Channel 9 Today EXTRA, The Australian Financial Review, Good Health magazine, Huffington Post,

Mamamia, Radio 2UE and numerous other parenting and lifestyle publications. Her regular segment on The Luke and Susie Show is syndicated across Australia.

Witnessing a lot of the anxieties that children are facing have in an overwhelming life, she got inspired to host A Kids' Life podcast. It’s about helping us to better understand the complexities of life as kids. She’s also been featured in numerous media publications and shows.

We covered a lot of ground in this interview.

  • What is calm and where does it come from - how do we manage our energy for a more balanced life.
  • What's her writing process?
  • The Inclussive Classroom - what does it look like and where does it start?
  • And of course - how does Angela define success, and how is she using education to scale that for her audience?

Angela is such is brimming with quality information and I know if you're a parent or educator wondering how to have a bigger, more positive impact in your home or school, then you're going to love this episode with Angela. excited to bring her on today—here’s Angela Lockwood.


To make the most out go this really insightful episode with Angela, I’m recommending that you to do two things:

  1. Take the Lifestyle Design Quiz to get this concept of balance going right in your life. It’ll generate for you a free personal profile, your strength profile, your focus for growth, and some coaching questions to help you get clear on what is your next step.
  2. Let’s have a chat about your fundamental beliefs. So, I'd love for you to book a call with me.
Nov 07, 202140:24
Marketing & Making an Impact - with Josh Moses

Marketing & Making an Impact - with Josh Moses

Today, we’re chatting with a very talented and impact-driven friend of mine.

Meet Josh Moses, marketing manager for Häuslein Tiny House Co in Port Macquarie. They are an amazing business doing great things but Josh's journey has been so much bigger than that.

His migrant roots exemplify the values of hard-work, dedication and building something from nothing. His parents instilled in Josh a love of learning and always giving your best, but also an altruistic nature of always finding a way to give back to others who have less than you.

With his parents and brother high-achievers in business, medicine and the military, Josh considers himself the black sheep of the family. He is a creative. He has found his niche in marketing and story-telling through media, but also has an insatiable love of learning, moving from industry to industry, always changing, always growing.

I first met Josh at the Luminosity Youth Summit. Back then, I didn’t realize how much we had in common and I've been glad to get to know him a little more over the years. Both he and his wife Tammy are genuinely inspirational people.

Let's catch up with Josh now...

Nov 01, 202130:43
Thinking Like a Bank - Getting Money Smart with Sarry Ibrahim

Thinking Like a Bank - Getting Money Smart with Sarry Ibrahim

Have you taken the Lifestyle Design Quiz yet?

If you have, you would have received your free report by now, and seen that ONE of the Lifestyle Design Domains is - Business and Finance!

It makes sense, right?

We cannot live the abundant lifestyle of our dreams unless we have adequate resources at our disposal to make those dreams a reality.

That's why I thought it would be really great to bring on an expert in the Financial sector to find out what he's doing to help his clients reach their goals AND how he's using education to scale that success for others.

Meet Sarry Ibrahim, a Bank On Yourself® professional, founder and CEO of Financial Asset Protection, and the creator and host of the Think Like a Bank podcast, where he teaches ordinary people to think like a bank and achieve more financial freedom in their life.

Sarry didn't always know he would end up in Finance. He attended an MBA program in Chicago, originally focussed on project management. He took on a side job doing sales and marketing at an insurance company. This is how he discovered his gift for helping people with their financial issues. Sarry enjoys talking to people and help them solve their problems. He also discovered how as people trusted him more and more with their financial issues, he became confident and comfortable asking people about money and decided to make it his career. Sarry is now a well-trusted financial consultant, planner, and advisor among business owners and real estate investors.

We all want success in our business and work life, It's usually what fuels our other dreams.

Let's learn some of Sarry's secrets for scaling success in the financial sector.


Once you've listened to the podcast, you might be motivated to get clear on your personal goals, but be unsure where to start.

I highly recommend you take the Lifestyle Design Quiz. It only takes about five minutes and it'll generate for you a free customised report with your strength profile, your focus for growth, and some specific coaching questions to help you get clearer on what that personal goal for you is.

And if you want to explore those insights in more depth, then book a free coaching call with me to help you get more clarity on the next step on your journey.

Oct 17, 202129:43
Scaling Your Impact with Systems - with Dave Jenyns

Scaling Your Impact with Systems - with Dave Jenyns

Oh boy, I'm excited for this episode today. Dave is the GURU of systems here in Australia and his book was described by Michael Gerber (yes, THE Michael Gerber - author of the E-Myth) as the "implementation guide for the E-Myth".

Do I really need to say more?

Dave tells an incredible story about how he met Michael and how the systems he had already set up in his own business allowed him to take advantage of an amazing opportunity that came his way, and how it continues to free him to spend time with his family, build his business and pursue the things that matter most in his world. Sound like something you could do with some more of?

Time is our most precious resource. If someone told you how you could create more of it in your life by freeing yourself up from the day to day activities that take up a lot but achieve very little in terms of big-impact - then I think you should listen up!

That's what I did.

Listening to Dave was a lot of fun. His journey and story were really incredible. He’s one of those perfect examples of having to have the awareness and perspective to be able to see the opportunities around us and creating the space and freedom to grab it.

If you want to get a better perspective on your own life, I highly encourage you to go and take the Lifestyle Design Quiz and get a free, customised report outlining your strength profile and focus for growth. It will also give you some coaching questions to help you get clear on what it is that you want and how to take smart actions to get there.

Want to create more time to do what matters most to you AND create greater impact in your daily work? Time to hear from the systems master…

Oct 10, 202136:43
How is coaching different? - with Jennifer Powers

How is coaching different? - with Jennifer Powers

Today, we are talking with Jennifer Powers - a accomplished trainer and master life coach from the United States. Jennifer has a master's in sociology, she is a master certified coach, speaker, best-selling author. In the last 15 years, she’s mentored and trained more than 2000 coaches and addressed 250,000 people around the world - and today we're chatting with her specifically about the life (or personal) coaching modality.

How is it different to teaching, consulting, advising, etc?

And how can it be used in a powerful way to reshape futures?

It’s real honour to have Jennifer here with us as she shares her wisdom and insight on the coaching space. Jennifer is making an impact in the coaching space not only in the USA but around the world. Australian business and education is still catching up to benefits of personal coaching but we're definitely getting there and I hope that this interview will make a positive contribution o that conversation.

Now as restrictions ease in New South Wales, life is about to change. Things are about to get back to normal, but maybe you don't want them to go back to the old normal. Maybe you want to set yourself up for a new future? If that’s you, then why not book a call with me and let's talk about what your goals are for 2022 and how we can design a 'circumstance-proof' plan to get you there.

If booking a call seems like a big step - then I encourage you to do the next best thing.

Take the Lifestyle Design Quiz and get a free, customised report outlining your strength profile, and focus for growth. It will also give you some coaching questions to help you get clear on what it is that you want and how to take smart actions to get there.

Let’s get into the podcast…

Oct 03, 202122:60
Mastering Inner Wellness - with Dr Nas Parsian

Mastering Inner Wellness - with Dr Nas Parsian

Today, we are talking with Nas Parsian.

Dr. Nas is a holistic health professional, academic nurse, and emotional health consultant. She has 25 years experience in a wide range of health and wellness modalities, evidence-based practice in healthcare, youth wellbeing, and chronic illnesses management, but her highest passion is health through spirituality and personal-transformation.

She holds a Ph.D. from Deakin University in Melbourne on spirituality and self-transformation in people with chronic health conditions (focusing on diabetes-type 1 management). She has a strong background in higher education and research, Neuro-Linguistics Programming (NLP) practice, transformational coaching, and hypnotherapy. She is also a member of the American Board of Hypnotherapists and a board member of the Global Youth Mental Health Awareness (GYMHA).

At the time this episode goes live, the doors to her heart-centered conscious leadership certificate have just opened!. It's an intense, accredited training workshop with new evidence-based, heart-centered modalities to optimize your inner wellness and improve your productivity.

And I’m so excited to share with you all this rich conversation with a very intelligent woman who has so many great insights to offer.

If YOU would like to start your own journey of self-improvement - whatever your goal - I  recommend you start with the Lifestyle Design Quiz. It'll generate you a free personalised report about your strength profile, your focus for growth, and also give you some smart specific action steps to help you move forward in the next positive step in your life.

Now let’s get into the podcast...

Sep 26, 202139:36
Lost for Words - with Jo Medlin & Adam Nobilia

Lost for Words - with Jo Medlin & Adam Nobilia

Today you're in for a special treat!

We're chatting with two adult literacy teachers who have just come off the back of filming 'Lost for Words' - a life-changing journey for eight brave Australians seeking to transform their lives by taking part in an intensive nine-week-long adult literacy program. It shines a spotlight on Australia's staggeringly low adult literacy rate and is also a beautiful example of the coaching process - analysing what success means to each person, then developing a personalised strategy to achieve it - the essence of what we're all about here on The Blueprint.

Meet Jo Medlin and Adam Nobilia.

Jo is an adult literacy and numeracy advocate who has been teaching literacy for over 30 years. She's done volunteer work and currently serves as president of the Australian Council for Adult Literacy. She's passionate about helping people develop confidence as learners so they can feel empowered to go on and achieve their goals.

Adam has worked in corrective services as a teacher of special education for over 13 years. He teaches literacy, numeracy, and vocational skills, as well as a psychoeducation program designed to reduce offending behaviours. He has counselling qualifications that inform his work as an adult educator. In his personal life, Adam writes and performs music under the moniker “Adam Blacksmith” and is about to release his third studio album, “Blind to the Sea”.

These two amazing educators feature in the uplifting SBS documentary ‘Lost for Words’, airing soon - Wednesday, the 22nd of September at 8:30 PM on SBS.

In this episode, we’re gonna be taking some inspiration from Jo and Adam as they champion the cause of adult literacy, creating confident learners, learners willing to take risks and become the best version of themselves along the way.

If YOU would like to start your own journey of self-improvement - whatever your goal - I  recommend you start with the Lifestyle Design Quiz. It'll generate you a free personalised report about your strength profile, your focus for growth, and also give you some smart specific action steps to help you move forward in the next positive step in your life.

Let’s hear from Jo and Adam...

Sep 19, 202133:28
Deciphering the Flowcode - with Dave Florence

Deciphering the Flowcode - with Dave Florence

In every crisis - there is also an opportunity!

If there has ever been a season for 'building inwardly' - then this is it.

In many parts of NSW, people are still in lockdown and economic and mental stress is prolific - but TWO things have not changed:

1) You are called to greatness. You were born for a purpose. Sure, the 'how to' may need to pivot - but the why is as real as ever. You have a mission to fulfill.

2) Achieving your mission requires that you embark on a path of self-discovery and personal growth. To achieve your big dreams will require becoming the best version of you.

Today on The Blueprint, we're talking with a man who has done just that.

Dave Florence is sharing with us all about The Flowcode. [GET YOUR FLOWCODE VOUCHERS HERE]

Dave has been on an inspiring journey—documented on his Youtube channel - the Evolution of Dave. His story is an amazing source of strength and motivation - especially in stressful times like these.

His wake-up moment and quest for new habits started in 2017 with a knock on the head. He decided he wanted to become a better version of himself. He wanted to be a better father, a better husband, a better human being. Dave did a lot of research and discovered the positive benefits of cold therapy and breathwork. He is now midway through his master's certification as a clinical hypnotherapist. He practices NLP, is also a qualified SOMA breath instructor, and helps his clients as a flow coach and ambassador.

In this episode, we're about to learn about his story, the FlowCode, and some simple practices recommended by Dave that you can put in place to get more of this peak state in your life.

Let's get into the podcast...

Sep 12, 202138:41
If you can dream it, you can do it! - with Lloyd Godson

If you can dream it, you can do it! - with Lloyd Godson

Today, we've reached a special milestone - episode 70!

And to celebrate I've invited an old friend in for a chat - someone whose acheivements you caould only describe as 'amazing' and a man I've wanted to get on the podcast since it first began - my dear friend, a brilliant teacher, life-adventurer and education innovator—Lloyd Godson.

This guy is an inspiration to me and I'm proud to know him.

He has worked and studied all over the world and has a string of recognitions and awards including the Guinness World of Records for generating the most human power by human underwater. He created the first-ever self-sustaining underwater habitat, he has been nominated the Australian Geographic Adventurer of the year and he is the winner of the Australian Geographic $50,000 Live Your Dream Wildest Adventure competition.

He's been featured on television multiple times and won numerous teaching awards,but most of all, Lloyd is a warm, kind, and big-thinking dreamer with a passion to live life to the full and to expand his impact through education. He's the perfect fit to join us here on the Blueprint!

On this episode, Lloyd and I dig deeper into what's possible with design thinking - speaking of which, RIGHT NOW the doors to Project Space are now open!

If you'd like to best position your child to succeed in the dynamic world of the 21st century through a holistic innovative project based learning program - then NOW is the time to jump on board! This week I'm doing one last webinar—5 Ways to Engage Your Kids and Prime them to Learn and Succeed, no matter the circumstances. - not only will this give you some great insights for enaging your child, but we also give away a whole bunch of free material (over $1000 worth) for those who decide to come on this Project Based adventure with us. Be sure to check it out.

But for now, let’s talk with Lloyd...

Sep 04, 202137:25
Mini habits and the creative process - with Kate Gladdin

Mini habits and the creative process - with Kate Gladdin

Today, we're catching up with award-winning international youth speaker and resilience specialist, Kate Gladdin!

If you're yet to have the privilege of hearing from Kate, then head back to episode 34 where we learned about how to get back up when life knocks you down. Kate has faced some tough challenges but has turned her heartbreak into purpose and now is changing lives through her passion to help teens both in Australia and the USA.

In this episode, we’re catch up on her exciting journey as she breaks into the life coaching space in the US and the story behind her very successful book, Mini Habits for Teens: Small Changes to Help You Navigate Life's Challenges.

If you're an author, or even considering starting up any creative way to share you r message - a blog, a podcast, a newsletter, or an online course - then you're going to get a lot of value out of the insights Kates shares in this  episode.

Some of Kate’s most practical tips are:

1 - There's no right way to go about this—what matters is the mini habits. Give yourself a structure to work by, and make sure you hit your mini-milestones.

2 - Don't edit yourself. Coaching yourself to a process and getting creative in the process are two very different things. Make sure you are able to take off the different hats at different times.

And 3 - tips on building an audience and handling criticism. Being consistent, being in it for the long game, and being vulnerable, and honest

And while we're talking about creative projects and helping young people to reach their full potential - this week, I have a special lockdown learning webinar called 5 Ways to Engage Your Kids and Prime them to Learn and Succeed, no matter the circumstances

Save your spot now and learn how to create an amazing learning experience for your child.

Let’s catch up with Kate now...

Aug 29, 202140:54
The Elephant in the Room - unpacking the often ignored health impacts of covid restrictions

The Elephant in the Room - unpacking the often ignored health impacts of covid restrictions

This is going to be controversial.

I'm hoping that this podcast is going to provoke a respectful, positive, and constructive conversation about the situation we are facing.

The Blueprint is about success. It's about how to live an abundant life and how do we use education effectively to scale that for many - essentially how do we help more people live life to the full?  For months now, I've been sharing resources, stories, coaching, interviews with amazing people and whatever else I can to help this cause - and for the most part, I've avoided the 'elephant in the room'.

I've avoided speaking directly to the Covid crisis because 1) there are actually positive outcomes that we can find in the midst of this debacle. There are relationships that we wouldn't have otherwise made and opportunities that would not otherwise exist - and so I wanted to bring those to the surface. And 2) because what we focus on, we magnify - and I don't want to be a part of the problem. There is so much fear mongering going on in the media and in the government already. I want to avoid that space.

I have successfully avoided it for quite some time - but I can't do that anymore.

Today we're talking about the Elephant in the room.

I had no idea, when I recorded this podcast that the state was about to go into an unannouced full lockdown. We have ZERO cases right now, here on the Mid-North Coast, but because there are other cases popping up in a few areas of regional NSW - Gladys Berejiklian has hit the panic button.

Many would argue that this is no surprise. This is right on queue. I'm not going there. Hidden agendas are a rabit-hole I don't want to get pulled into right now. I want this conversation to be about the simple (but profoundly important) issue of what we are doing to ourselves as a society by accepting the mandates to wear masks and not address the real enemy that we are facing - FEAR.

I am a frontline worker. Not of the Covid crisis, but of the mental health crisis. I take calls often from people doing life very tough.

In 2020, there were more than 3000 deaths by suicide in Australia - many of these young people - and it rarely made the news. Meanwhile Covid case numbers were counted in 10s and sometimes 100s and we heard it every single day.

Watch out for the resources that I'll be sharing throughout the podcast (you can find these over on the blog) and the actions that we can all take today—hopefully, towards a more enlightened, positive, and forward-looking community working together for a healthier and happier future.

Let's start this conversation...

Aug 17, 202141:44
Asking the right questions - with Jason Knight

Asking the right questions - with Jason Knight

Today we're welcoming back Jason Knight - a communication specialist who joined us in episodes 21 and 22 and helped us unpack how the education world can use this climate of drastic global change to its advantage - but today, we're shifting gears and learning all about his fresh new approach to branding strategy!

If you're a coach or thought leader in the business or the education space, wanting to build authority and/or attract more clients or followers to your message (or perhaps this a goal of yours for the future?) then you are not going to want to miss out on a single second of Jason's smart new approach to authority building.

In the corporate space, Jason runs Moved by Design, a successful strategic communications business helping companies deliver consistent messaging both internally for their staff and externally to the marketplace.

Jason has built up a highly successful portfolio in the corporate space but has systematically dismantled all the highly polished, 'less-human' elements that don't resonate in the coaching, education and personal development spaces and has created: "Brand Solved"

So for all you heart-inspired coaches, educators and entrepreneurs who want to increase cut-through and authority in your niche - let's get into this podcast!

Aug 08, 202130:09
The final 4 steps for building confidence with Giulia Fiore

The final 4 steps for building confidence with Giulia Fiore

Today, we're concluding the interview with fellow coach Giulia Fiore.

If you haven't listened to part one - episode 065 - then you should go back and listen to that now. Giulia's niche helping men build confidence is pure genius. Her own confidence is infectious and she perpetuates ripples of positivity out into our community through her incredible work on mental health and helping build confidence.

Giulia is this episode we continue the discourse around courage, confidence, and self-esteem. Concepts that are inextricably linked and vital to achieving our goals and becoming everything we're born to be.

In the last episode, we finished off 'Addressing self-talk', which is Step 1 in Giulia and Andrew's Top 5 Tips for Building Confidence. And we're covering steps 2 to 5 in this episode - the final 4 steps you need for building confidence. Be sure to download the free resource available with this episode.

Let's get back to this interview...

Aug 01, 202113:40
Where does confidence come from? with Giulia Fiore

Where does confidence come from? with Giulia Fiore

Giulia is an amazing, accomplished counsellor and coach - and her niche is pure genius.

When I strumbled across the work that she does - I was genuinely moved.

In the coaching space, there's a lot of women helping women. It's a collective tribal movement - which (don't get me wrong) I think is great! But as Steve Biddulph says, within this space, the best a man can do is to cheer from the sidelines - it's not a movement FOR HIM.

Women seem so much better at uniting to support one another - their success, it seems, is found together. Whereas men, never having had to fight the same battles for equality as women have, don't seem to have that comradery, or any compulsion to care whether their fellow man is winning or struggling. Men typically don't help one another as much or, as the cliche goes, they don't like asking for directions!

It's inevitable then, that when you feel that you have to win on your own, you leave yourself isolated, lonely, and (ironically) far less likely to succeed than if you had connected with a mentor, a coach, or even a friend.😞

And that's where Giulia comes in.

Today's podcast guest is Giulia Fiore, a certified counselor and coach working in Sydney, she has dedicated her life to help men improve their relationships, work performance, and overall wellbeing. She is the founder of Confidence to Achieve, offering relationship coaching, counseling, and performance coaching. She also works with organisations and teams as a consultant, speaker, and workshop facilitator.

Guilia is the 'secret weapon' for many men smart enough to enlist her support and today we're going to be unpacking her signature coaching zone, an essential ingredient for anyone's success - confidence building. For this two-part episode, Giulia and I have put together our Top 5 Tips for Building Confidence to help you wherever you are in achieving your career and personal goals.

Come and meet the lovely Giulia Fiore...

Jul 25, 202123:44
Living Life Better Than 7 - with Nick Bourke

Living Life Better Than 7 - with Nick Bourke

Today's episode is celebrating a story of resilience, integrity and finding meaning in the pursuit of something greater than yourself.

Nick is an everyday hero. From hitting the rock-bottom, rising up again with mindfulness and intention, and bravely sharing that journey with others, Nick is a quintessential example of what it means to unlock his Blueprint.

I'm sure a lot of you will relate to Nick. Not only does his story include some painfully common themes, but he's also one of the most genuine, authentic and honest blokes you'd ever hope to come across. This comes out in everything he does including his new venture 'Better Than 7' - a resource website and podcast designed to help others live, well, better than '7'.

Nick is a former client and now a friend who has worked with me in the Launch Your Passion Project course and then, more recently one on one in my MX04 Coaching program.  I've seen him work hard to get the results he wants, and now, it's just so rewarding to witness how Nick is having a ripple effect on other people.

If you're finding yourself feeling 'one-dimensional', Nick has worked hard to put together resources to help you fast-track your journey to a more fulfilling life. He is building a community of people wanting to go through a self-reflective process just like he did which you can find on his new website.

After the conversation with Nick, I thought his 'score yourself' check in process was golden and I wanted to share it with you. It's a technique we use in a lot of the Blueprint programs and so I have put together a FREE DOWNLOAD - the 30-Day Self-Assessment Check Sheet

which includes a very simple but powerful 4 week reflection on the 6 lifestyle domains plus personal development which undergirds them all. Be sure to get your copy!

Jul 09, 202126:04
Education that interrupts human trafficking - Every Daughter Matters

Education that interrupts human trafficking - Every Daughter Matters

Today's episode is a very personal one for me.

We're chatting with Ross Nancarrow - a fellow coach whom Sofia and I have worked with together to improve our connection with one another. he's a man I now call a friend.

He's also a mentor to many other leaders around Australia, but what he calls his true mission is his ministry organisation: Every Daughter Matters.

Every Daughter Matters partners with teams in India and Nepal to stop or reduce the trafficking of young women into the sex trade. Their work is an inspiring example of how education can be used to have a powerful impact on the lives of others.

The work is simple, but profoundly effective. Ross helps to train teams who position themselves at key checkpoints on the borders and spots potential trafficking incedents and intervenes with awareness, education and support to save young girls lives before they are lost to a life of misery, abuse, slavery and prostitution.

Ross and his team work tirelessly to expand the reach of the work of Every Daughter Matters. and they have recently acheived tax deductable gift recipient status here in Australia. Supporting them is a way YOU can join in their success story and help to change lives for girls in Nepal! I urge you to support this cause.

Let's hear from Ross...

Jun 27, 202124:58
Genius Learning with Changemaker Mum - Heidi Conway - Part 2

Genius Learning with Changemaker Mum - Heidi Conway - Part 2

Let's get back into the interview with Homeschooling Mum, Education Commentator, Life-Coach and Entrepreneur - Heidi Conway.

If you missed episode 61, be sure to go back and check it out.

In this episode you'll hear a little more about trends in education but we dig deeper into Heidi's niche - the Changemaker suite of programs.

Jun 19, 202117:23
Genius Learning with Changemaker Mum - Heidi Conway - Part 1

Genius Learning with Changemaker Mum - Heidi Conway - Part 1

Jun 19, 202127:54
5 ways to reflect, celebrate and lock in your success

5 ways to reflect, celebrate and lock in your success

It’s our 60th!

This episode is a special milestone for the team here at The Blueprint and we're excited to share it with you!

THANK YOU! for being a part of this journey with me. I feel truly blessed to have an amazing community of like-minded people around me, people who refuse to settle for ordinary and who want to live life to the full. This podcast has explored a lot of different ideas and perspectives about how we see success and how we can scale that through education. It's such a vast topic and in future episodes we will be refining even more onto the 'crative process' and 'impact through education' - but today, we just want to celebrate the journey and say thank you for being a part of the process.

So, I guess that it's appropriate that today's theme is 'Reflection and Celebration'

This is an area I haven't always done well.

I tend to love setting new goals and targets and often I forget to pause, reflect and recognise what I have achieved. This has worked for me in some ways, but if you want to bring others with you, if you want to build a family or team, (and even for your own benefit) then you NEED to take some time to celebrate the positives and the wins along the way.

Join me as we unpack FIVE WAYS to reflect and celebrate your success!

Let's get into the podcast...

Jun 13, 202124:10
From Heartbreak to Hope - with Anne Ward

From Heartbreak to Hope - with Anne Ward

Today, I'm so proud to be sharing with you another success story - someone who has been positively impacted by one of my coaching programs.

Welcome, Anne Ward. A recent graduate of the Launch Your Passion Project, she's been an amazingly successful woman in the music space - a musician, a performer for the Australian Opera ballet orchestra, she's got a Master's degree in music, and has been a lecturer of flute theory of music and composition for the Australian Institute of Music. She's also faced some incredible challenges and heartbreak along the way.

I just love Anne's can-do attitude and maturity of faith that has been refined in the crucible of trials and now, Anne proudly declares that her biggest success is being a proud home-educating mum of two amazing kids.

Anne really does have a clear vision of how she's called to help and its a simple model that we can all emulate. Faith - Family - Impact - in that order. Come and join us on the podcast as we hear all about the highs, the lows, the heartbreak and the hope of a woman determined to give her all...

May 30, 202129:40
In time? Or Through Time? - which one are you?

In time? Or Through Time? - which one are you?

Time is precious.

Time is what our lives are made of.

We think of time as a immutable constant, but like most things in life, 'time' can be shaped by our perceptions. We don't all think about time in the same way. There are many different perspectives, but there are TWO key models of how people think about time. These 2 different perspectives lead to very different actions and therefore, very different results.

The 2 views are:

'In time' and 'Through time'

I'm not going to say too much about each, because in today's podcast I will ask you a few key questions to help you decide which one you are and how that affects your actions.

I will say this - you need both perspectives.

In-time helps you to get into the zone. It helps you to immerse yourself into the moment and thereby achieve greater focus and productivity, not to mention, more engagement and pleasure in your activities.

Through time helps you to see the bigger picture. To plan. To strategise. To think ahead and create a 'map' that you can take with you 'into the forest' so you don't get lost when things get dark and uncertain.

You know I love supporting people build big, impactful life-projects. In a project you NEED to be able to adopt BOTH of these perspectives.

Listen to today's episode - but if you'd like to work with me directly and launch a passion project that matters to you - grab the flyer for my next free course
here

AND (I don't always offer this) IF you are in the 'messy middle' right now - if you are being hammered by the force of resistance and feel unable to push through to achieve your big goals - then I want to offer you some time. Let's get on a short coaching call, unpack the problem, disarm resistance and move you forward.

CLICK HERE TO BOOK A CALL

May 16, 202113:17
How to overcome the ONE thing that is stopping you from reaching your goals

How to overcome the ONE thing that is stopping you from reaching your goals

I guarantee you, if you have EVER set about to improve yourself, to create change in your life, sto start a business, a new education program, or even a simple shift of habit - then you WILL have faced the force of resistance.

Stephen Pressfield, author of the War of Art, coined the term 'resistance' refering to a natural force - as natural as gravity or decay - a force that WILL come against you as you strive to reach your goals.

Today on the podcast we're talking about how we can 1) RECOGNISE resistance when it comes in all its many forms - and 2) how we can BEAT IT, so that we can move forward and achieve our goals and change out lives.

On the podcast, we've talked many times before about the 'Hero's Journey' - well 'resistance' is the force that we encounter in the 'messy middle'. The dark days when the odds feel insurmountable. Have you been there? I know you have.

Resistance is responsible for derailing thousands of men and woman from achieving their goals, from being their best - and yet, when it comes down to it, the force of resistance is surprisingly simple to outwit AND easy to beat IF you know the strategies - and that's what I want to share with you today.

Let's get into it...

May 02, 202124:40
A Quantum Leap (a sneak peek into my upcoming book)

A Quantum Leap (a sneak peek into my upcoming book)

OK. I'm a little bit nervous about sharing today because I'm pulling back the curtain on my current passion project, and of course once you put it out there - you're accountable right?

I'm writing a book.

There. I said it. There's a natural resistance to undertaking ANY creative project, which I'm sure you'll hear more about in upcoming episodes (so make sure you SUBSCRIBE!) but today, I thought it would be fun to share just one chapter from the manuscript so far.

The framework of the book is similar to the MX90 coaching process.

We start with identity.

Unlock mindset.

Design a smart, aligned lifestyle strategy

Build successful habits

And then - next level - how do you have an impact? How do you share the breakthrough YOU'VE eperienced with friends, family and your community?

Pretty cool, right?

Now, as you probably know, one of the ways I've designed my life to have impact in recent years is through a fun youth coaching program called: Young Hero's Adventure Quest. It it we literally experience the Hero's Journey (you can learn more about the hero's Journey here) and kids learn their academic work, all whilst having fun, creating a great culture, and participating in outdoor adventure experiences...  So, I thought, why not create one of these experiences as a part of the book?

Do you remember the Quantum Leap TV program? (late 80s early 90s) or maybe (more recently) Marvel's Antman and the Wasp?  These series/movies give us a sci-fi insight into the very real science of the 'Quantum Realm'. In the Quantum realm time-travel, multiple universes or even changing outcomes with your thoughts/observation are all theoretically possible! Now we can't physically access the Quantum Realm like Sam Beckett or Scott Lang BUT we can use our imagination to dive deep into this place and think outside our usual frame of reference, and in doing so get some amamzing new insights into ourselves.

You're the hero of this episode. To get the most out of it, download this free IDENTITY checklist and use it for some self-reflection activity after listening. You can also sign up for an early-release copy of my book.

Let's have a little fun...

Apr 25, 202119:09
The Five Love Languages

The Five Love Languages

I once read a quote that said, "Communication is to a Relationship, what Blood is to Life".

It's so true.

Brene Brown says: "Connection is why we're here. It's what gives meaning and purpose to our lives.

So in our quest for "success" and abundant living - we'd better get good at nurturing our important relationships, right? And that means improving our communication.

That's today's episode. A powerful framework to improve communication with the one you love.

As a coach, I'm a big believer in the coaching process. You don't have to be down and out and struggling before you reach out for help (if fact, its better if you're not, but often it takes that sort of kick-in-the-guts motivation to be kind enough to ourselves to get some help!)

Sofia and I recently decided we could do with a tune-up and so we found a relationship coach - someone we knew we could trust and have been getting some relationship coaching together. In our first few sessions, we’ve talked about 'love languages'.

I first did the Love Languages quiz about 20 years ago but the question - "what's your No. 1 Love Language?" caught me a little off-guard because I think I've changed a lot over the years. So I went and redid the quiz and I was right - I'm different! Perhaps you can relate to that? Perhaps you and your partner are not the same people you were 5, 10, 20 years ago (surprise, surprise!)

Have you heard of the Five Languages before?

It was inspired by Gary Chapman's best-selling book, The Five Love Languages, which is really about communication. People are different in so many ways. And because of that, communication can be difficult. And so he identified these five ways by which we express love. He also introduces the concept of the 'Love Tank' - the reservoir that gets filled (or drained) by the actions of our others. He talks about how we NEED to learn how to speak one another's Love language so that we can FILL each others love tank.

I mostly help people with their Passion Projects - experiencing a breakthrough and doing more of what they love BUT I also know that deeper relationship connection, richer family life is at the foundation of living that full, whole-hearted, abundant life - right?

Apr 19, 202118:34
The Aftermath - a story of inspiration and hope

The Aftermath - a story of inspiration and hope

In today's podcast, I want to share an inspiring story of strength and resilience. It's a story that exemplifies the spirit of hope in individuals and also the power of community.

Today we're talking with Ben Mailo (known online as Mose Mailo) and the devastating floods that have changed life for him and his family in the past few weeks.

Ben shares the heartbreaking journey that his family has been through, but you'll also get an insight into how their values about what's truly important and the ability to stay upbeat and postive - even the in the face of extraordinary obstacles has empowered them to ride out this storm.

Ben shares the story of a wonderful community that has rallied together to support one another and I am inviting you to become a part of that community - be someone who makes a difference to Ben and his family.

Apr 05, 202125:52
Having a business AND a life!

Having a business AND a life!

Today, we have a very special guest—she is the principal of the Port Macquarie Performing Arts Studio, director of Morgan Media, a podcast host, a speaker, and a business coach.

Meet Stacey Morgan. who is doing so much more than teaching dance. Stacy is mentoring young people for life and using her model of education to scale success. She's a role model for young people and for parents who want to run a business and have quality time with your family.

For Stacey, she found her 'thing' very early in life - loving dance and having the joy of learning and growing and competing together with a tight knit group of friends. She danced professionally for a few years and then later took a pathway into education and landed a dream job with the Royal New Zealand Ballet company. Moving back to Port Macquarie she started a dance school in her garage - which after Day 1 needed to move to a bigger premises! She has gone from success to success - but on the way had to learn a lot (often the hard way) about how to maintain a healthy lifestyle balance - which is where her business direction is moving now.

She's got a lot to share with other parents in business who want to get that balance right!

If you're in a position where you're wanting to get a lifestyle balance, I highly encourage you to take the Lifestyle Design Quiz which gives you a free personalised report analyzing your strength profile and your focus for growth. It will also give you some coaching questions to get you really clear on your next smart steps.

Let's get into the podcast...

Apr 04, 202137:57
5 things you need to remember in a crisis

5 things you need to remember in a crisis

This podcast was put together in the midst of the March 2021 NSW flood crisis. No power, no internet - just my phone charged with my car and a reflection on what I've observed it takes to succeed in the midst of overwhelming obstacles.

There's no use me teaching you about self-discovery, about developing a new mindset - or even systems or strategies at this point - this is game day! This is the moment that all that other personal development gets put to the test, and we either rise to the challenge - or we don't.

In a strange way, I love these moments (hear me out) I'm not a sadistic person who likes to see suffering - far from it! My heart breaks for the people being tested right now. But I am also in awe of the strength, resilience and unexpected heroism of the human spirit. It's something that as Australian's we've been proud of in the past - brought to the fore by the historical and natural adversities we've faced - but perhaps lost a little in recent times. We've got comfortable. These challenging times - although I wouldn't hope for them or wish them on anyone else, still do provide the catalyst for developing the character we need to live our maximised life. This is true education. Real life.

Join with me now on the podcast as we explore FIVE key principles we all need to remember when life gets tough and we are facing our darkest hour...

Mar 25, 202119:27
How to understand and develop a Growth Mindset
Mar 21, 202120:56
The Wheel of Life Activity - my version

The Wheel of Life Activity - my version

Every single day is an opportunity for you to START working on your maximised life.

That's why this week I want to share with you my adapted version of the Wheel of Life activity.

In my coaching programs I use a whole range of different tools and activities to help people get clearer on who they are, what they're called to bring to this world and set goals to match. Trouble is - life is never a one-project-process! Life is complex and nuanced and there are ALWAYS multiple things going on at once. To addess that we use tools like the Lifestyle Design Quiz, and also the Wheel of Life activity.

Today, I want you to download the activity sheet, print it out and then let me run you through it on this super-quick episode. There are 8 different lifestyle domains - a little different to the Lifestyle Design Quiz, becuase I use this one is business programs - "work" and "finanaces" are separate on this tool. Also, Physical Space is an extra feature - how happy are you with things like your house, office, garden - the spaces you live in. And this tool also has "Spirituality or Personal Growth" - an important part of ANY personal development process.

This tool also has a place to help you define success - what does 10/10 look like for you in each of those 8 areas of life?

Once you're done, I'd love for you to leave a comment below and tell me what you thought?

Let's dive in...

Mar 16, 202112:56
Travelling through Time!
Mar 06, 202123:48
Preparing our kids for the future
Feb 25, 202149:48
Designing Change - with Willemina Wahlin

Designing Change - with Willemina Wahlin

It's been a tough day today but I'm so excited and motivated to share with you this amazing conversation with our guest today!

You know how you can feel your state change and your mood lift, just by thinking about something you're looking forward to? That's what this episode was like for me!

Meet Dr. Willhemina Wahlin. She is a Lecturer in Design and the Acting Associate Head of School for Charles Sturt University’s School of Communication and Creative Industries. She is also the creative director for the New York-based non-profit organization, PROOF: Media for Social Justice, which uses visual storytelling for social justice and human rights advocacy.

Her work focuses on the role that design plays in promoting civic engagement, upstander behavior, and social cohesion. She has designed over 15 traveling exhibitions that have been displayed internationally. Since 2017, she has been a member of Port Macquarie-Hastings Council’s Cultural Steering Group.

'Willie' (as she's known to her friends) grew up moving often due to family and work factors, but she doesn't regret it. In fact she appreciates the opportunity for growth and how this exposed her to social networks, strengthened her emotional intelligence and propelled her to human-centred work that requires soft skills like kindness, empathy and understanding.

This is an insightful conversation about the creative process. Willie underscores some very important roles of education—bringing human skills to the industry, developing soft skills, cross-curriculum projects, and project-based learning. And her philosophy around becoming the 5Cs so as educators we can live to inspire others!

If you can see how understanding the creative process helps you to live a more holistic, impactful ife, then you NEED to take the Lifestyle Design Quiz after listening to this podcast. The Lifestyle Design process will show you how to leverage your strength and your focus for growth and make your next smart move.

Feb 21, 202135:30
Here we go! Taking a look at 2021.

Here we go! Taking a look at 2021.

So excited to be back in 2021!

It's a brand new season of the Blueprint Podcast and there’s so much I want to share with you.

Here, we have a foundational belief based on the ancient biblical text of John 10:10: The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that you may have life, and have it to the full.

Jesus came for a reason. He wants to take people who are struggling and help them get back on track. And at Blueprint Life Coaching, the call we have is a 'sub-mission' of that ministry.

Our work has two domains — Blueprint Life Coaching and Blueprint Education Solutions.

BOTH are about helping people live life to the full.

One focuses on personalised support to reach goals in business, family and any other focus for growth - the other uses innovative education models to change the way we think about learning and thereby change the results we get.

Education needs to be inspired by life. For so long, education has been about telling kids what they need to know. But life coaching is about how do you bring out that gold inside of you. So we're bringing that world of life coaching into the youth coaching space.

This process I take people through, whether it's a youth coaching program or an adult program, some commonalities have emerged: the Hero's journey. When I started these, I know that there is a path, a step-by-step way to build a maximised life. And I know it's something I'm called to share.

If you're interested in personal growth - the BEST place you can start is by taking the free, lifestyle design quiz - that will outline your strength profile, your focus for growth and give you some specific coaching questions that will bring out a clarity on your next best move.

To see our youth programs, go to: https://www.blueprintlifeacademy.com.au/youth and download a copy of all our different programs

To connect with me you can follow this blog or just reach out to me at andrew@blueprintlifecoaching.com.au

Feb 11, 202129:51
Reflecting on Creativity & Success - with Tim Maddren

Reflecting on Creativity & Success - with Tim Maddren

2020 is almost over just like that! And we're down to the last episode of the year!

It's been a tough year with lots of challenges! But the greater the challenge, the greater the triumph. And through those challenges, we've been able to look at success from different perspectives, chat with amazing people, and get brilliant insights into how we can turn adversity into success.

I couldn't think of a better way to wrap up 2020 than an inspiring conversation with one of Port Macquarie's most respected talents, Tim Maddren!

Tim has had a long string of successes in the creative arts. He played roles in Peter Pan, The Rocky Horror Show, The Addam's Family, Fidler on the Roof, But he is probably most well-known as a former member of the children's group, Hi-5.

Tim is an authentic family man and an inspiration to so many other parents, educators, artists, and young people. We're lucky to have him in our community!

In the past couple of years, he and his wife founded their own production, Got Ya Back, here in Port Macquarie not only to share their craft but also to mentor young people. As well as teaching them performance, they've been helping kids acquire real life-skills to help them thrive in this challenging new world. Creativity is the key.

On the podcast you'll hear all about their most recent project featuring local artists

The Christmas Bell - A Moment for Us All.

It is such a pleasure to share the successful life and art Tim has been consciously creating with his integrity, social responsibility, and with passion and purpose in our final episode for the year.

Have a wonderful Christmas and New Year!

Dec 20, 202039:54
2 things you need to do for a great week

2 things you need to do for a great week

Today, we're gonna look at two things we all need to set ourselves up for a great week.

I recently ran the course Launch your Passion Project, a great opportunity sponsored by TAFE, where we talked about how success (in anything) is built.

Simple and Smart. If you can take these sorts of actions consistently then you're going to be great.

Many people think that success is going to come as this great big flood, but it doesn't happen like that. Success is built over a lifetime, consistently taking small, achievable steps. Here in the Blueprint, we've got all sorts of coaching programs to help you at each of the different levels towards that success.

And this episode is a great place to get started.

With a new year looming just around the corner, NOW is the time to start implementing some positive lifestyle habits. This is totally doable.

Ready to set yourself up for an awesome new year?

Let's get into it...

Dec 06, 202019:34
Starting your business right - with Jade Weller

Starting your business right - with Jade Weller

Success is such a rich concept.

There's are so many different facets to it!

I think when people hear the word success, they think immediately of fame and material wealth and what the media portrays as "successful" - and yet EVERYONE who comes onto the podcast, when asked, 'what does it mean for you?', describes a much deeper, richer, holistic version of what success is.

Success is about abundant living, tapping into that core piece of you are and who you're created to be, and living life to the full based on that.

For many of you, I KNOW that a big part of that abundant life is finding a business or work environment that aligns with who you are on the inside - and for this, I'm happy to be chatting with Jade Weller.

Jade is the founder of JadeStart Consulting. She helps people validate and launch their business ideas leveraging her diverse background in sales, law, accounting and a variety of experience in business. She's been recently nominated as a finalist for Women's Finance Awards Mentor of the Year and Entrepreneur of the Year, and is one of our very own Luminosity Stars from 2019. Jade is a young woman doing really great work helping people connect with their 'WHY' and build a business that aligns with their purpose.

If you are someone who doesn't want 2021 to be a rinse and repeat of previous years (um, I think that's everyone?) AND you're the sort of person willing to take ACTION to realise those dreams - then be sure to download the great resource we've put together called 10 Questions You Ask Before Quitting Your Job.

Nov 29, 202028:35
The reason for the hope that I have

The reason for the hope that I have

Last week on the podcast I was chatting with an old friend from uni days.

And yesterday I turned 45.

It makes you think. Reflect. Life is such a gift.

Today I'm sharing a key moment in my own story and the 'why' behind what I do.

Blueprint Life Coaching, Blueprint Life Academy, Blueprint Youth Programs and this podcast all have one purpose in mind. To maximise the human experience.

I am constantly blown away by the amazing potential that exists in people, and as a coach, it's my role to help bring that out. Your stories are at the centre of this podcast because, for me, it's about celebrating the vast richness of success that we find in all sorts of other people's stories. The nature of a coach is to draw out the gold and help you reach your full potential. But how did I get here?

There was one decision more than any other that brought me to where I am today - and that's the story I want to share with you on the podcast today.

The reason I still have hope in my life; why I believe there's something greater for me that I'm willing to take risks to pursue; the reason I have the confidence to go out and connect with people; the reason I feel I have something to offer to support other people in their own journey; the reason I started Blueprint Life Coaching.

Here's my story, if it inspires you in any way - be sure to take action to make it real for you...

Nov 22, 202025:30
Try not to panic - Part 2

Try not to panic - Part 2

Hello and welcome back!

If you haven't yet caught

Try not to Panic - Part 1 - 10 tips for overcoming mental health challenges - then you need to do that right now! (I promise you'll be glad you did!)

Today we're concluding that conversation and shifting gears to talk with Mark more about scaling success through education.

Walking me through his years of experience of healing himself and teaching, Mark shares how he came to recognise moments that need correction, and some of the crutches he's seen people resort to while exploring the definition of success and education.

Mark has definitely a vast bank of wisdom to draw upon, with smart principles that you can apply in your situation, especially if you are in education. He has put these all together in a collaborative document that comes along this episode—the 10 tips for overcoming mental health challenges.

Make sure to share this episode and freebie to people you know who might be needing support!

Let's get back into Mark's story...

Nov 15, 202030:47
Try not to panic - 10 tips for dealing with anxiety and depression - with Mark Glover

Try not to panic - 10 tips for dealing with anxiety and depression - with Mark Glover

Can you believe it -  our 40th episode!

There are a lot of people facing trials and challenges at this time, the governments are doing the best they can but I believe there is not enough emphasis being placed on the invisible scourge of mental sickness being proliferated through isolation.

Someone who has walked through some very difficult times himself and come out the other side is my long-time friend, Mark Glover.

Mark has had a colourful journey - travel, 12 years in England, multiple career paths, came back to Australia and got back into teaching. We have SO much to catch up on and so we've split this episode into 2 so you don't miss out on some of the gems of wisdom that can only be gleaned through genuine time spent in the trenches.

Mark touches on several important pieces of wisdom: vulnerability, authenticity, the positive purpose of pain, the healing powers of creativity and time in nature; and of course, what we've covered before here on the Blueprint - what you focus on matters!

Some of these may sound a bit cliché but Mark's journey shows that they absolutely work.

Let's jump into Mark's story...

Nov 06, 202037:32
Getting through the dark days - with Ina Mullin (Lifeline, Australia)

Getting through the dark days - with Ina Mullin (Lifeline, Australia)

In today's podcast, Ina Mullin, National Manager, Communications, and Public Affairs Officer for Lifeline Australia, is sharing her amazing story and work in helping people connect and find hope in life.

I know that everyone is facing some form of a challenge at the moment—with Covid and the state of the world—but our ability to handle these challenges is THE distinguishing factor, determining whether we're going to be successful in our lives or not. It is that simple - and that hard! This episode is about what you can do to get past that moment of feeling stuck or like it's the end of the line for you.

As someone who has walked through my own very dark days, and I greatly value those who give their time to help others get through the challenge. These people are coaches - hope and survival is the goal - a quintessential human quality that forms the bedrock of life. Hope allows us to dream. Dreams give us the strength to believe. Belief is the main ingredient of success. Ina is a leader in one of Australia's primary organisations dedicated to giving people hope.

Ina joined Lifeline in 2018. She's had a bunch of business development, brand management, and public relations roles at different charity organisations. But in the past couple of years, she dove deeper into mental health, understanding other people's issues, and emotional distress, and building resilience in them.

Growing up with socially conscious parents, she spent her early years volunteering at a crisis shelter, inspiring her to focus her corporate career on building opportunities for a more compassionate world.

Right now I'm running a course called Launching Your Passion Project and recently we talked about the 'messy middle'. It doesn't matter what you're trying to create, there's always this aspect of resistance, when life seems harder than normal. That is what Lifeline can help you get through. This is a very timely podcast. Many people are going through tough times right now. Governments have priorities a certain aspect of "health" and largely underestimated the mental health impacts of restriction measures - the most vulnerable being youth and minority groups.

Ina shares the spike in calls that Lifeline has been receiving over the past 12 months and highlights the importance of connection and how it gives us the strength to hope.

IF YOU OR SOMEONE YOU KNOW ARE DOING IT TOUGH YOU CAN:

It's important that as we go through these challenging times, we adjust our plans to make sure we include social connections. I also encourage you to do some deep reflection, like journal work, to rethink your purpose and call. Connecting with your inner identity and purpose will strengthen your mental health and give you a positive direction to move you forward.

Have you taken the Lifestyle Design quiz? That is an amazing way to get your clear on your own inner strength and your focus for growth. It will generate a free, customised report that includes personal coaching questions to help move you toward your best life.

Let's get into the podcast...

Oct 29, 202027:17
My tribute to Sir Ken Robinson

My tribute to Sir Ken Robinson

If there's one man who was able to tap into a lot of models of achieving success and who's had a deep understanding of what it is to be successful, it's the late Sir Ken Robinson!

Today's podcast is a tribute to him. To the amazing life he has lived, and the wonderful work he has done, especially in education.

Obviously Sir Ken had done a lot for education in the UK before 2006 (they don't hand around those 'Sir' titles to everyone!) but for me, I'd never heard of him. For me, he bloomed into notoriety with his amazing off the cuff TED address entitled "Do schools kill creativity?" Sir Ken posited that creativity is as important as literacy, and explained a lot about the hierarchy of education and about it coming from the industrial era—something I constantly cited in my own academic work.

His work perfectly explained how schools are a microcosm of society's broader power structures, reflects the way industrial paradigm schools have not changed and operate in this old industrial mentality while the rest of us have moved on. Governments have failed to make the transition but Sir Ken was someone who just 'got it'. He fully understood what needs to happen, what the education revolution should be about and he articulated it in a succinct way that inspired millions.

Sir Ken also was able to capture and describe the essence of living a full life - what he called 'The Element. As a coach this resonates so strongly with me and I love how he brings these 2 ideas together - living a rich, fulfilled life AND education as the training ground for it. That's EXACTLY what we're all about here at the Blueprint.

After listening to this podcast and his work, you'll recognise that we don't have to stay in the old industrial paradigm and an outdated social script. There are better ways to do things!

Identity, designing your own maximise life, the essence of success, empowering our creative spirits, having purpose and impact, and scaling that to create a better society using education. Sir Ken was just able to sum a lot of these deep foundational principles and talk about those in the context of education - something that everyone recognises is important.

Sir Ken was a hero of mine, a kindred spirit, someone I look forward to meeting in heaven and having the opportunity to sit down and talk with someday.

To Sir Ken:

Thank you for what you have done for the way we think about ourselves and humanity. You're an amazing man! It's such a blessing that we now have the opportunity to listen to the great resources you have left behind.

Over the past 15 years since that initial TEDtalk, Sir Ken has written amazing books, including my favourite, The Element, and produced invaluable resources for educators and parents.

I've put together a free downloadable list of these resources to share with you his best work. That's My Tribute to Sir Ken Robinson available along with this podcast.

Let's listen to it...

Oct 22, 202021:29