In this episode of The Growth Voyage Podcast, we explore what it truly means to break away from expectation and build a life aligned with your values. Gauthaman grew up in India’s academic pressure cooker - where success was defined by grades, stability, and approval. Yet beneath that structure, he felt a pull toward something deeper: fitness, freedom, and purpose. This conversation is about choosing authenticity over approval, and what happens when you stop chasing happiness - and start building a life that actually means something. If you’ve ever questioned the path laid out for you, this one will resonate.
We dive into:
I help recovering Nice Guys leave the mask behind and become Grounded Warriors. Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/harisonsaunders/
You can find us on Youtube, TikTok, and Instagram (@thegrowthvoyagepodcast)
Connect with Gauthaman on Instagram:
Song recommendation: Pink Floyd - Comfortably Numb
Book recommendations:
What happens when a man raised in chaos decides to rewrite his story? In this episode of The Growth Voyage Podcast, I sit down with Jason Gutsell — a man who turned years of escapism and substance use into a journey of discipline, belief, and inner peace. Jason grew up surrounded by chaos and was exposed to drugs by the age of 12, becoming a high-functioning stoner through his teens and twenties. His breaking point came during a mental and physical collapse in Ibiza — a moment that forced him to confront who he had become and what needed to change. This is a story about resilience, masculine growth, and the mindset required to rebuild your life from the ground up.
We dive into:
- How environment shapes identity — and how to rebuild it.
- The power of calisthenics, breathwork, and visualization in transformation.
- Finding stillness and clarity in New Zealand.
- What it means to redefine success through balance, family, and purpose.
I help recovering Nice Guys leave the mask behind and become Grounded Warriors. Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/harisonsaunders/
You can find us on Youtube, TikTok, and Instagram (@thegrowthvoyagepodcast)
Song recommendation: Bob Marley - Three Little Birds
Buy Jason's book, Becoming Limitless, here: https://amzn.eu/d/7PLsPE8
Other book recommendations:
Don Miguel Ruiz - The Four Agreements
Wallace D. Wattles - The Science of Getting Rich
What if being too sensitive was actually your greatest strength? In this episode of The Growth Voyage Podcast, I sit down with Paul Blake - a man who’s walked through grief, loss, and deep questioning to uncover who he truly is beneath the identities he once wore. We explore how pain and sensitivity can become gateways to connection, faith, and inner strength. Paul shares his journey from years behind the decks as a DJ - where success and recognition shaped his sense of self - to the moment he realised he no longer knew who he was underneath it all. That realisation opened the door to a life guided by presence, spirit, and truth.
Together we dive into:
This is a conversation about sensitivity, spirituality, and the courage to live with an open heart - especially in a world that tells men to shut down. Listen to the full episode for more on finding strength through sensitivity and truth through grief.
I help recovering Nice Guys leave the mask behind and become Grounded Warriors. Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/harisonsaunders/
You can find us on Youtube, TikTok, and Instagram (@thegrowthvoyagepodcast)
Song recommendations:
Book recommendation: Eric Schlosse - Fast Food Nation
In this episode of The Growth Voyage Podcast, we sit down with Nathan Cusack to explore truth, consciousness, and the systems shaping our world.
Nathan shares his journey as a critical thinker who never fit the traditional schooling mould, growing up around multiple religions and belief systems. We dive into topics like:
Who really runs the world and how fear shapes society
Living consciously in an “evil” or corrupted world
How to raise your vibration and use energy to shape your reality
Why emotions are your friend and how to master them
Meditation as a reset button for the mind
How to connect to intuition and live beyond the illusion of politics
Life after death, ego, and finding purpose on earth
Nathan’s recovery from PTSD and why standard medicine failed him
This is a wide-ranging conversation about truth, healing, and human potential - and how to stay grounded and free in a world built on control.
I help recovering Nice Guys leave the mask behind and become Grounded Warriors. Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/harisonsaunders/
You can find us on Youtube, TikTok, and Instagram (@thegrowthvoyagepodcast)
Song recommendation: Beethoven - Symphony No.7
Book recommendations:
Foundation for Inner Peace - A Course in Miracles
Don Elkins, Jim McCarty, Carla Rueckert - The Law of One (The Ra Material
Author Recommendation - Eckhart Tolle
After 1 year of The Growth Voyage Podcast and 50+ conversations with men (and a few female experts), I’m reflecting on the biggest lessons I’ve learned.
In this solo episode, I dive into the realities of men’s mental health - from depression, addiction, and burnout to identity, emotions, and faith.
We explore the role of brotherhood, connection, and vulnerability in personal growth, and why the power of the mind is central to overcoming life’s toughest challenges.
Whether you’re navigating mental health struggles, questioning your identity, or seeking meaning and connection, this episode brings together the most striking insights from a year of deep conversations.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
- Different approaches to men’s mental health
- Why identity, emotions, and faith shape the growth journey
- How to deal with depression, burnout, and addiction
- The role of brotherhood, connection, and support in healing
- What 50+ conversations taught me about the power of the mind
I help recovering Nice Guys leave the mask behind and become Grounded Warriors. Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/harisonsaunders/
You can find us on Youtube, TikTok, and Instagram (@thegrowthvoyagepodcast)
Life can knock you down in more ways than one. In this episode we dive into what happens when your health fails, your career disappears, and your sense of identity is shaken. Mark Thomas shares his journey through asthma, multiple surgeries, and major career setbacks in big tech. He opens up about what it means to lose your footing, ask for help, and rebuild confidence when everything feels uncertain. We explore themes of resilience, vulnerability, and identity - and why learning to lean on others can be the key to growth. If you’ve ever faced setbacks in your health, career, or personal life, this conversation will help you see how struggle can lead to strength.
I help recovering Nice Guys leave the mask behind and become the man they were meant to be - confident, fearless, and fully going after the life and dreams they truly want. Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/harisonsaunders/
You can find us on Youtube, TikTok, and Instagram (@thegrowthvoyagepodcast)
Song suggestion: The Verve - Bittersweet Symphony
Book Recommendation: James Clear - Atomic Habits
Connect with Mark:
https://www.instagram.com/pellucidwombato
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-porter-thomashttps://medium.com/@markthomas_97045
In this episode, IFS Therapist and Sex & Desire Coach Forest Benedict shares his powerful journey from a childhood shaped by religious trauma and family struggles to a life dedicated to helping others heal. In this conversation, we explore the importance of being true to ourselves, embracing the deeper parts within us, and overcoming shame. Topics include self-acceptance, sexuality, Internal Family Systems (IFS), cultural influences on identity, and the ethical complexities around pornography - including whether men should watch it or not. If you’re interested in personal growth, healing religious trauma, sexual integrity, or breaking free from shame, this episode is for you.
I help recovering Nice Guys leave the mask behind and become the man they were meant to be - confident, fearless, and fully going after the life and dreams they truly want. Find out more: https://www.instagram.com/harisonsaunders/
You can find us on Youtube, TikTok, and Instagram (@thegrowthvoyagepodcast)
Song suggestion: Sleep Token - Emergence
Book Recommendations: Rena Martine - The Sex You Want | Joe Bielling, Kate West - From Broken to Badass
Connect with Forest:
In this episode, we welcome Oskar Gut to dive deep into his journey of resilience, discipline, and personal transformation. From facing financial struggles and separation, to navigating entrepreneurship and rebuilding life, this conversation uncovers the lessons learned from hitting rock bottom and fighting back.
Discover how to:
- Overcome setbacks and personal challenges
- Build resilience through discipline and perseverance
- Balance personal growth with professional ambition
- Embrace vulnerability and emotional health
Whether you’re dealing with career setbacks, relationship struggles, or personal doubt, this episode offers insights and inspiration to keep moving forward.
Song suggestion: Kota the Friend, Big Sean - MICHIGAN
Book Recommendation: Frank R. Wilson - The Hand
Connect with Oskar:
https://www.instagram.com/gut.oskar/?hl=en
Outgrowing your old self is only the beginning. I help recovering Nice Guys leave the mask behind and become the man they were meant to be. Message me directly here
You can find us on Youtube, TikTok, and Instagram (@thegrowthvoyagepodcast)
At just 16 years old, Rolf Meyer’s life was turned upside down by a sudden brain hemorrhage. What followed was a year of hospitals, rehabilitation, and learning to adapt to a completely new reality. Rolf shares how he rebuilt his life, developed resilience, and discovered the importance of support systems, living in the present, and setting meaningful goals.
We discuss:
- How resilience and adaptability shaped Rolf’s recovery- The crucial role of family and friends during life-changing events- Why living in the present moment creates peace and clarity- The difference between healthy goals and being trapped by outcomes- How collaboration and empathy can accelerate healing and growth
Rolf’s story is one of strength, perspective, and the power of embracing change. Whether you’re facing setbacks or simply want to understand how to live with more purpose, this conversation will inspire you to rethink what’s possible.
Song suggestion: Tool - Descending
Book Recommendation: Neurobionics - Hans-Werner Bothe, Michael Engel
Check out Rolf's work:
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Rolf-Meyer-5https://www.ukgm.de/ugm_2/deu/ugi_neu/50279.html
Connect with Rolf by email: rollo2@gmx.de
Outgrowing your old self is only the beginning. I help recovering Nice Guys leave the mask behind and become the man they were meant to be. Message me directly here
You can find us on Youtube, TikTok, and Instagram (@thegrowthvoyagepodcast)
In this episode, Jay Staniforth opens up about his journey from childhood struggles and social anxiety to building a £3.5 million property portfolio and helping others through mindset coaching. Jay shares powerful lessons on overcoming bullying, managing burnout, navigating relationships, and shifting from external validation to authentic self-fulfilment.
We dive into his entrepreneurial journey, the challenges of starting a marketing agency, his transition into property investment, and the transformative moments that reshaped his life. Tune in for insights on mindset, resilience, authenticity, and building success without losing balance.
Song suggestion: Ludovico Einaudi - Experience
Book Recommendations:
Connect with Jay:
Outgrowing your old self is only the beginning. I help recovering Nice Guys leave the mask behind and become the man they were meant to be. Message me directly here
You can find us on Youtube, TikTok, and Instagram (@thegrowthvoyagepodcast)
In this one, I’m joined by James Granström — former international model turned executive wellness coach, author, and host of The James Granström Podcast – Super Soul Model Series. James’s life was profoundly shaped by two near-death experiences, and in this episode, he shares how these pivotal moments became catalysts for transformation.
We dive into:
- How a car crash at 19 pushed him to take full responsibility for his life.
- Overcoming a life-threatening encounter with alcohol and discovering self-mastery.
- Meditation, mindfulness, and holistic wellness as tools to live in alignment with your values.
- Using intuition and body awareness as guides for decision-making and balance.
- How beliefs around money and success shape our reality, and why aligning them with your values is key.
This conversation is about turning challenges into growth opportunities, cultivating gratitude, self-discipline, and purpose, and creating a life of meaning.
Song suggestions: Bob Marley - Three Little Birds | 528hz Healing Frequency Sounds | Claude Debussy - Clair de Lune
Book recommendations: Deepak Chopra - Perfect Health | Rhonda Byrne - The Magic | Eckhart Tolle - The Power of Now | Paulo Coelho - The Alchemist | Morgan Housel - The Psychology of Money | Tony Robbins - Money: Master the Game | Neale Donald Walsch - Conversations with God | Dan Millman - Way of the Peaceful Warrior | James Granström - Natural High (out 2026)
Connect with James:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jamesgranstrom/?hl=en
Website: https://www.jamesgranstrom.com/
Check out our conversation on James' Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5fK5txFGSGvLcxADuL5gkG
Outgrowing your old self is only the beginning. I help recovering Nice Guys leave the mask behind and become the man they were meant to be. Message me directly here
You can find us on Youtube, TikTok, and Instagram (@thegrowthvoyagepodcast)
In this episode, we welcome Daniel Lawson to explore the power of emotional awareness, vulnerability, and intentional living to transform your relationships, leadership, and personal fulfillment. Learn practical strategies to overcome fear of judgment, build meaningful connections, and align your work with your values.
Key topics in this episode:
- Escaping the corporate grind to find true purpose
- Developing emotional awareness and authenticity
- Building meaningful relationships and supportive communities
- Overcoming fear of judgment and embracing vulnerability
- Personal growth, leadership, and intentional living
If you’re ready to take control of your life and create impact, this episode is your roadmap to transformation.
Connect with Daniel Instagram | LinkedIn
Daniel's resources:
The #1 Relationship Question You Must Ask: https://youtu.be/Th8vouSulxs?si=mUcaY1CK8P3mS5GT
How to Improve Your Relationships FAST: https://youtu.be/1W_Jpvy_F8s?si=E7wKy_AqT9IvkDoh
High-achievers Priority Audit: What to focus on first in your personal development: https://link.apisystem.tech/widget/quiz/1gR6aUckowWSKdi2v083
Artist suggestion: The Greatest Showman Ensemble
Book recommendation: Sharon Pearson - Ultimate You (Quest Edition)
Outgrowing your old self is only the beginning. I help recovering Nice Guys leave the mask behind and become the man they were meant to be. Message me directly here
You can find us on Youtube, TikTok, and Instagram (@thegrowthvoyagepodcast)
In this unfiltered conversation, Anas Saiyid opens up about his journey through divorce, betrayal, and the process of rebuilding his life from the inside out. We explore:
- The pain of being cheated on and how it shaped his healing journey
- Navigating and managing anger without letting it control you
- Understanding covert narcissists and toxic relationship patterns
- Taking full responsibility for divorce and personal growth- Learning when to respond, when to react, when to listen, and when to speak up
- Letting go of expectations—of people, of outcomes, and of society’s rules for men
- Breaking free from repeated cycles and toxic habits
- The role of meditation and journaling in self-awareness
- Having faith that things will work out, even in the darkest moments
Whether you’re going through heartbreak, struggling with anger, or looking to grow into your best self, this episode will give you real-life insights and practical tools for emotional healing and self-mastery.
Connect with Anas on Instagram here
Song and Music Recommendations:
Fink - Pilgrim
Handpan music
Book recommendations:
Marcus Aurelius - Meditations
Brianna West - The Mountain is you
Outgrowing your old self is only the beginning. I help recovering Nice Guys leave the mask behind and become the man they were meant to be. Message me directly here
You can find us on Youtube, TikTok, and Instagram (@thegrowthvoyagepodcast)
In this episode, I’m joined by Paul Adamy, a lifelong musician who built a career doing what he loves, without a grand plan - just consistent effort, connection, and deep trust in the process. Through stories from the stage and reflections from life, Paul shares the mindset and habits that helped him turn passion into a path — and stay grounded along the way.
We dive into:
- What it's like to live without a fixed vision — and let life unfold
- How real opportunities often come through relationships
- The quiet discipline behind doing what you love
- His appreciation for a strong, lasting relationship — and what makes it work
- The balance of parenting: guiding vs giving space
This is a calm, thoughtful conversation about creativity, career, connection, and trusting the long game — full of insight for anyone building a life on their own terms.
Connect with Paul on Instagram here
Check out Paul's work here
Song Recommendations:
Artist Recommendations: Keith Jarrett, The Beatles, Frank Zappa, Lawrence, Vaneese Thomas
Book recommendations:
Outgrowing your old self is only the beginning. I help recovering Nice Guys leave the mask behind and become the man they were meant to be. Message me directly here
You can find us on Youtube, TikTok, and Instagram (@thegrowthvoyagepodcast)
Today’s guest is Jaymin J. Patel, a global speaker, coach, and soul mentor who’s traveled to over 50 countries, written eight books, and been invited to speak at Harvard Business School, LSE, TEDx, and major transformational festivals. He's also a devoted dad living in Bali, blending the corporate and spiritual worlds to help others live in full alignment.
In this episode, we explore:
- Navigating identity while growing up with traditional parents
- Early celibacy, intimacy challenges, and lessons from heartbreak
- Rediscovering love and the healing power of therapy
- Life-changing insights from Burning Man and spiritual festivals
- Helping others overcome loneliness and build real intimacy
- Creating an aligned life through writing, speaking, and retreats
- Breaking into public speaking and publishing
- The role of meditation, plant medicine, and grounded practices in personal growth.
Join us for a deep dive into Jaymin’s transformative path - from childhood constraints through self-discovery, heartbreak, spiritual quests, and ultimately building a life fuelled by authenticity, love, and soulful work.
Connect with Jaymin on Instagram here
Check out Jaymin's free gift here
Song Recommendation: Tycho - Awake
Book recommendation: Raymond Charles Barker - The Power of Decision
Outgrowing your old self is only the beginning. I help recovering Nice Guys leave the mask behind and become the man they were meant to be. Message me directly here
You can find us on Youtube, TikTok, and Instagram (@thegrowthvoyagepodcast)
In this episode, Paul Dettmann, founder of The Social Foundry, shares the real story behind building a social enterprise focused on community, mentoring, and life skills. We explore how meaningful work can transform lives - especially for those facing mental health struggles and isolation. Paul opens up about fear, self-doubt, and the power of faith, movement, and support in hard times. This is a conversation on resilience, purpose, and the quiet strength in vulnerability.
Check out Paul's work:
Song Recommendation: Switchfoot - Dare You to move
Book recommendations:
Donald Miller - Searching for God Knows What
Donald Miller - A Million Miles in a Thousand Years
Outgrowing your old self is only the beginning. I help recovering Nice Guys leave the mask behind and become the man they were meant to be. Message me directly here
You can find us on Youtube, TikTok, and Instagram (@thegrowthvoyagepodcast)
We welcome back Wil Adamy for a raw, unfiltered conversation on spirituality, betrayal, and the brutal beauty of life’s challenges. We explore a recent, dark chapter in his life that involved identity theft, being misunderstood, and the loneliness of not being believed. Wil opens up about the dark pull of alcohol, losing himself, and rebuilding from the wreckage. This episode dives deep into friendship, resilience, and staying true to yourself when the world turns its back.
Connect with Wil on Instagram here
Song Recommendation: FourTet - Two Thousand and Seventeen
Book recommendation: Ram Dass - Be Here Now
Outgrowing your old self is only the beginning. I help recovering Nice Guys leave the mask behind and become the man they were meant to be. Message me directly here
You can find us on Youtube, TikTok, and Instagram (@thegrowthvoyagepodcast)
In today’s episode, I sit down with Walter Carter for a raw and expansive conversation on the inner journey—through struggle, healing, and self-discovery. We explore the highs and lows of life, and how the moments we often resist—loneliness, insecurity, emotional pain—can actually become portals for rebirth.
Walter opens up about reconnecting to self-love after the end of his marriage, and what it means to form a deeper relationship with yourself through compassion, breath, and awareness. We talk about befriending difficult emotions, dealing with shame and self-judgment, and learning to sit with what arises without needing to fix or flee it.
We also touch on themes like high-functioning depression, codependency, self-judgment, and the unseen belief systems that quietly shape how we experience life.
This episode is a reminder that transformation doesn’t come from fixing yourself—but from meeting yourself fully. With respect, honesty, and curiosity.
Connect with Walter on Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/whereswally1024/ | https://www.instagram.com/freeformcounselling/
Check out Walter's work here: https://www.freeformcounselling.com.au/
Based in Australia? Check out Walter's MeetUps: https://www.meetup.com/safe-emotional-space-for-men
Song Recommendation: Liv East - Love Frequency
Book recommendation: Colette Baron-Reid - The Map
Outgrowing your old self is only the beginning. I help recovering Nice Guys drop the mask, let go of fear, and step into their full potential. Check out my work and message me directly here: https://www.instagram.com/harisonsaunders/
You can find us on Youtube, TikTok, and Instagram (@thegrowthvoyagepodcast)
In this episode, I sit down with Nick Elvery, a hypnotist and peak performance coach who has been sober for over 13 years after spending more than a decade addicted to hard drugs. His story of recovery is raw, inspiring, and filled with insight into the inner work it takes to truly transform your life.
We explore how addiction blinds us from truth, how we unconsciously live out the stories of others, and what it really takes to reclaim your mind, energy, and purpose. Whether you're on a healing journey or simply seeking more clarity and direction, this conversation is a must-listen.
We cover:
- Letting go of the past and future
- How unconscious beliefs shape your reality
- The impact of your environment, media, and habits
- Cultivating silence to hear your inner truth
- Brain health, performance, and daily rituals
- Manifesting a life you love — with both strategy & surrender
Whether you’re navigating addiction, feeling lost, or simply ready to elevate your mindset and energy, this is an episode that reminds you of your power to create change.
Connect with Nick on Instagram here
Check out Nick's Youtube channel here
Artist Recommendation: Queen
Book recommendation: Michael A Singer - The Surrender Experiment
Outgrowing your old self is only the beginning. I help recovering Nice Guys drop the mask, let go of fear, and step into their full potential. Check out my work and message me directly here: https://www.instagram.com/harisonsaunders/
You can find us on Youtube, TikTok, and Instagram (@thegrowthvoyagepodcast)
In today’s episode, I sit down with Wil Adamy - a deeply creative soul who’s walked the path of purpose, passion, and profound self-reflection. We explore what it really means to do what you love in a world that often pushes survival over soul.
Wil shares how nature, stillness, and self-honesty have helped him reconnect with what truly matters - health, connection, and meaning.This conversation dives into vulnerability, reflection, and the art of constructing a life that feels aligned - not just productive.
We talk about manifestation, anger, empathy, relationships, and how we can reclaim our energy from the noise of mass media.
If you’re someone who craves depth, creativity, and a more intentional life - this episode will resonate deeply.
Connect with Wil on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/misterwil/
Song Recommendation: FourTet - Two Thousand and Seventeen
Book recommendation: Ram Dass - Be Here Now
Outgrowing your old self is only the beginning. I help recovering Nice Guys drop the mask, let go of fear, and step into their full potential.
Check out my work and message me here
You can find us on Youtube, TikTok, and Instagram (@thegrowthvoyagepodcast)