The MAPPlife Podcast

Over the past number of years, Adam Sellars has been on what could be described as a spiritual journey that has culminated in the colliding of two worlds that have shaped the person he is today. As an athlete,  Adam always grappled with the pressure that is part and parcel of the sporting experience, and in his own personal battles with the pressures in life which at one point threatened to cripple and derail him altogether.

But Adam’s eyes were opened when he discovered the misunderstood sport of freediving, which allowed him to embrace a new way of living and coping with the pressures and stresses. What Adam discovered he now shares with teams, organisations and individuals alike. The principles of meditation, power of breath and breath hold, and the ability to overcome limiting beliefs is what Adam has used to empower himself and others.

He then created The Pressure Project - offering freediving courses, corporate speaking, coaching, breath workshops, and incredible local and international retreats. These experiences allow Adam and The Pressure Project to succeed in their mission of helping people release themselves from self-defeating thought patterns so they can unlock their full potential, reach goals, and live a full and happy life.

Hold your breath - we’re diving in with Adam Sellars of The Pressure Project (... and, yes, of The Bachelorette Australia).

Do you want to find a new level of personal potential?!

Join Adam on your next epic adventure to the Ningaloo Reef, the Maldives, the Mexican Cenotes, or even Iceland! Hit Adam and TPP team up below...

FIND ADAM HERE

Hailing from the sunburned land of Australia, Christian Turner has defied expectations and embraced the challenges of the frigid Alaskan wilderness, carving his path as an inspiring Iditarod athlete. In a sport where ice-cold mountains replace the heat of his homeland, Christian's journey exemplifies the remarkable fusion of determination, adaptability, and a relentless spirit.

The complexities of the Iditarod take on a unique hue when viewed through the lens of an Australian musher. Unlike native mushers, Christian found himself navigating through the pristine snow-covered expanses of Alaska, facing a stark contrast to the warm landscapes of home. The initial cultural and environmental shock only fueled his determination to conquer the complexities of this iconic race.

For Christian, the challenges transcend the trail itself. Adapting to the sub-zero temperatures, understanding the nuances of snow conditions, and forging a bond with sled dogs amidst a landscape vastly different from Australia presented formidable hurdles. His journey is not just a physical test but a testament to the human ability to adapt, learn, and thrive in the face of the unknown.

The Iditarod demands strategic prowess and a deep understanding of the unique challenges posed by the Alaskan wilderness. Christian Turner, with an unwavering spirit, meticulously plans his approach to the race. Navigating through icy expanses, overcoming unpredictable weather patterns, and strategically managing the energy of his sled dogs, he embraces the complexities with a tenacity that resonates with the unbreakable Aussie spirit.

Off the trail, Christian becomes a cultural ambassador, sharing his story with fellow Australians and the global community. Through his journey, he not only breaks barriers but also highlights the universal language of human perseverance and the shared bond between humans and animals.

In the tale of Christian Turner, the complexities of the Iditarod become a canvas on which an Australian adventurer paints a narrative of resilience, cultural exchange, and the unyielding pursuit of dreams. His story echoes across continents, proving that the spirit of adventure knows no borders, and the call of the wild can inspire courage in even the most unexpected corners of the globe.

Enjoy EP033 with Iditarod athlete and friend, Christian Turner.

Marcus Hamill, the co-founder of The Sattva Life, is a beacon of inspiration in the realm of meditation, breath-work, and Kriya yoga.

With a profound dedication to inner growth and holistic well-being, Marcus has guided countless souls on their transformative journey. His wisdom and compassion create a sacred space where individuals discover the immense power within themselves, unlocking the path to inner peace and self-realization.

As a meditation, breathwork, and kriya yoga facilitator, Marcus Hamill embodies the essence of spiritual growth and self-discovery, lighting the way for those seeking a deeper connection with their true selves.

FIND MARCUS + THE SATTVA LIFE HERE

In the realm of sustainable wellness and the pursuit of holistic health, there exists a visionary leader who stands as a beacon of inspiration and transformation. Meet Luke Deighton, the Managing Director of Highbration Organics, a trailblazing company that has redefined the boundaries of well-being through its production of highly potent and therapeutic cacao and medicinal mushroom products. 

Luke is a relentless advocate for the profound connection between nature's gifts and human vitality. With a heart deeply rooted in the soil of environmental stewardship and a mind that continually seeks the boundaries of human potential, Luke has become a driving force in the world of wellness. 

His journey into the realm of cacao and medicinal mushrooms has been nothing short of extraordinary, beginning his life as an high-performing athlete, then onto working in the toxicity of one of Australia’s largest mines. Down in there, it fast became apparent that health and wellness needed to become his mission. It is a journey marked by innovation, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to the well-being of individuals and the planet alike.

Luke's passion for harnessing the incredible power of nature's bounty led him to Highbration Organics, a brand that offers more than just products; it offers a path to elevated living, a journey toward optimal health, and a profound connection with the natural world.

Luke Deighton is not just a successful entrepreneur; he is a husband, father, speaker, and facilitator - a true visionary. Heart-led and purpose-driven. His mission transcends business; it is a quest to elevate the human experience and catalyse positive change in the world.

Join us on this inspiring journey as we explore the remarkable story and vision of a man who is redefining the meaning of wellness.

FIND HIGHBRATION ORGANICS HERE

Mason Rose stands as a beacon of creativity and innovation in the world of art, film and photography. With each click of their camera, he breathes life into his creations, transcending the boundaries of convention and challenging the very essence of artistic expression.

Mason's ability to capture the ethereal beauty in the mundane, to unveil hidden stories through the lens, is nothing short of mesmerising. His art becomes a portal to new dimensions, inviting us to reimagine our perceptions and embrace the uncharted realms of imagination.

Mason Rose doesn't merely create art; he weave dreams, ignites inspiration, and reminds us that within every individual lies the potential to shape the world with clear vision and innovation.

A former pro-bodyboarder-turned-B-boy-turned-filmmaker-turned-photographer - Mason goes right when the crowd is moving left. Born and raised in Port Macquarie with his bestie, Nabil (Kanye West, Bon Iver, Frank Ocean, Arctic Monkeys...), he knew he had to believe in himself in order to escape the dreaded quicksand of living in a small-coastal town. So, he set his sights on all corners of the Earth - New York, Berlin, and now calls Hawaii home.

Working with global brands such as Red Bull and Monster, and providing images for the global superstar, The Weekend, Mason's journey is a testament to the boundless possibilities of the human spirit, and his work is an enduring reminder that truth and art know no limits.

FIND MASON HERE

There are players who transcend sport, leaving an indelible mark not just with their exceptional skills but also with their unwavering dedication, character, and integrity. Among them stands a true inspiration and a shining example of perseverance and commitment: Will Hopoate.

Hailing from a lineage of rugby greatness, Will Hopoate stepped into the spotlight with a name to live up to and a legacy to uphold. Yet, he didn't let the weight of expectations deter him from carving his own path and creating a unique legacy of his own. From the very beginning of his rugby journey, it was evident that Hopoate possessed an innate talent that set him apart from the rest. But what truly sets him apart is the depth of his character and the strength of his spirit.

Will's journey hasn't been without its share of challenges and hurdles. Like any athlete, he faced setbacks and moments of doubt. But what truly defines a person is not how they avoid adversity, but how they respond to it. In the face of injuries and obstacles, Hopoate's unwavering determination and resilience shone through. He embraced each challenge as an opportunity to grow, to learn, and to emerge even stronger.

Beyond the rugby field, Will exemplifies the qualities of a true leader and a compassionate human being. He has been a beacon of hope for those around him, offering support and encouragement to his teammates, and making a positive impact on his community. His humility and genuine approach to life have endeared him to fans worldwide, proving that greatness is not just measured by on-field achievements but also by the character one exhibits beyond the game.

As we delve deeper into the extraordinary journey of Will Hopoate, we find not just a talented athlete, but a source of inspiration for all. His unwavering work ethic, his dedication to his craft, and his commitment to always strive for better resonate with us all, transcending rugby and touching the hearts of individuals from all walks of life.

In this narrative of resilience and triumph, we discover that Will's story is more than just about rugby— it's about the power of the human spirit to overcome, to uplift, and to inspire.

FIND WILL HERE

Corners of the Earth is Spencer Frost's second award-winning film, in collaboration with his best mate and international photographer, Guy Williment.

Follow surfers Letty Mortenson and Fraser Dovell as they journey to Kamchatka in the far east of Russia in search of new waves along the frozen, unexplored coastline. 

Bordered by the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Okhotsk with more than 150 volcanoes (29 active) the Kamchatka Peninsula in Far Eastern Russia is as remote as it is unique. 

After 2 years of planning the trip was almost over before it started. An hour before boarding their flight to Moscow, Russia invaded Ukraine.

At a time when the world was seeing the worst of human nature, these guys flew behind the iron curtain and found, to their surprise the best of it. Mi-8 helicopters, skidoos, frozen campsites, and frozen bank accounts, this surf trip quickly became far more than anyone could imagine.

In this episode of The Mapplife Podcast - Spencer, Guy, Letty, and Fraser dive deep into the physical and psychological impact of this filmmaking experience. Nothing is held back.

FURTHER LINKS:

Let me paint you a picture...

You're standing at the bottom of a mountain range that rises so high into the sky that clouds hide its peak.
The sound of helicopter blades whomp whomp behind you - a call to arms.
You eye the spine (snowpack on a mountain side) you desire to ride... it's GO time!
Aboard the chopper, you visualise leaping from feature to feature (rock to rock) on a finely shaped plank of half-inch ply strapped to your feet... and riding out the bottom safely, soundly and to the sound of your crew losing their sh*t!
At the peak, you look dooooooooown - it's not so easy to see the bottom...

How do you develop the confidence (trust), presence (of mind, heart & soul) and belief (faith) that you can - and will - execute your plan?

In EP026, the Aussie OG of backcountry snowboarding, Ryan Tiene, opens up about his process - walking us through step-by-step on how he was able to master his craft on some of the craziest terrains and parks all over the world. Riding for huge brands like Oakley and DC Shoes, there was pressure to deliver HUGE parts in feature films - so how do you keep your head in the process when everyone is counting on your for the result? And when the boyhood dream is over - what then???

🏔

Today's episode is with Winter Olympic silver medalist, World Cup gold medalist and FIS World Champion SBX athlete, Jarryd Hughes.

As a 17-year-old Jarryd Hughes his World Cup debut in February 2012 in Stoneham, Canada, finishing an impressive seventh and in the following month made his mark again by winning silver at the 2012 Junior World Championships in Sierra Nevada, Spain.

After missing the 2013 Australian domestic winter season, Hughes bounced back big time onto the World Cup circuit finishing 8th in the 2013/14 season opener and going on to win his first World Cup gold at Lake Louise in Canada.

Competing at his first Olympic Winter Games in Sochi, Hughes was ranked number two in the World on the FIS World Cup Rankings. Hughes had to settle for 17th place after exiting the event in the second round.

Then, the highlight of his career comping in the 2015/2016 season - winning gold at the X-Games in Aspen, USA.

In December 2017 Hughes claimed his second podium gold at Montafon, Austria.

In 2018, Hughes lined up for his second Olympic Games at PyeongChang in what proved to be a historic event, as the 22-year-old claimed the silver medal in a hotly contested men’s snowboard cross final.

Leading into an Olympic year, the 2021-2022 season was a frustrating year for the Snowboard Cross athletes with many events either cancelled or rescheduled. The highlight was teaming up with Belle Brockhoff to win Australia's first ever gold medal in the team event at the 2021 World Championships in Idre Fjäll, Sweden. The team event made its debut at the 2022 Olympic Winter Games.

c/o OWIA

Where Jarryd's individual and team results weren't in alignment with what he'd prepared for - what his illustrious career highlights to me to someone that is tenaciously dedicated to personal and professional betterment. Not only is he constantly pursuing his own goals, Jarryd is consistently on the mountain supporting the journey and success of other athletes - an attribute which speaks volumes about him as both an athlete and a human being and in this episode, he digs deep into his process, and how he prepares to be and give his all everyday.

CHECK IN WITH JARRYD HERE:

Today I speak to an old friend, kiwi-brother, Luke Ronchi.

Born in New Zealand but raised mostly in Australia, Luke became a cricketing rarity by representing both countries. His first international incarnation came for Australia in the West Indies in 2008 when he stood in for the injured Brad Haddin in four ODIs and a Twenty20 and he showed he was not out of his depth: his glovework was brilliant and at the tiny Warner Park in St Kitts he clubbed a 22-ball half-century, then the equal third-quickest ODI fifty scored by an Australia player.

As New Zealand rode an ODI wave that eventually culminated with defeat at the final of the 2015 World Cup, Ronchi made a decent case for himself as a lower-order batsman. He smashed 170 off 99 balls against Sri Lanka in Dunedin in 2014, then the highest score ever by a No. 7 batsman and, in May 2015, seven years after making his international debut, Ronchi earned his maiden Test cap. A half-century in the first innings at Headingley helped his side level a two-match series against England 1-1. Ronchi played three more Tests, two World T20s and two Champions Trophies before calling time on his international career in June 2017.

Nowadays, with NZ a serious powerhouse of talent and prowess, Luke is dominating his new role in world cricket as NZ's Batting Coach and this is where we pick up the story as we discuss the importance of cultivating a values-driven culture if you want to succeed; cognitive flexibility i.e. shifting mindsets for different formats; allowing your values to shape your identity; the importance of systems; the 'win or learn' mentality of growth mindset; and, one of my favourite topics - pressure.

Enjoy listening to a man who has represented two countries, and is a pillar of excellence, both personally and professionally.

FOLLOW LUKE HERE

On today's episode is my long-time pal, Sam Clark.

For those that aren't part of the 217,000 people already following him on Instagram, Sam is an incredible talent and and incredible man.
Loving husband to the wonderful Polly, and devoted father to two of the coolest groms from either side of Noosa River, Sam divides his time between his family, the studio and Mother Nature.

Sam Clark draws permanent pictures on people's skin. Using styles of neo-traditional, illustration and realism you will see from his work why people from all over the world book in to have a "Sam Clark" on their body. e.g. Ink On Sky has his "Masterpiece" rating of 100%.

Sam a high-performance artist, but as devoted family man he discusses the importance of his family for his HP process. We also discuss his values, beliefs, habits, the importance of alignment, connection to 'flow state', growth and determination, and one of my favourite topics - dealing with pressure. (Imagine the pressure of inking someone's skin?)

Enjoy a couple of pals having a chat about all things mindset, performance, mental health and what it takes to succeed.

Follow Sam here:

Dan "DC" Christian is someone I respect very deeply. On the field, as a player, you won't find a greater competitor. Hard as nails and ferocious, he's the type of guy you want on your side of the trenches. With that said, he always competes with the spirit of the game in mind. Off the field, he is a gentleman (unless you're competing with him at anything - golf, cards, a jog down the street - then it's back to 'on-field' Dan). With that said - he always turns up with a smile on his face and offers a handshake at the end. You can understand why he has had so much success in both his life and cricket.

A global T20 gun-for-hire after spending most of his career in and around the Australia team. An allrounder who can bat in the top six and provide a valuable extra seam option, "DC" started at New South Wales, moved to South Australia and then shifted to Victoria ahead of the 2013-14 season. During that summer he was called into Australia's ODI and T20 sides and made the squad for the 2014 World T20 in Bangladesh. He had made his T20 international debut four years earlier and has since become a perennial winner at T20 tournaments. He has played for 16 different franchises in tournaments all over the world, making 11 finals and winning a staggering seven titles. He was Player of the Match in the 2018-19 BBL final for the Melbourne Renegades.

"DC" has so much to offer when it comes to personal and professional excellence, adaptation, cognitive flexibility, teamwork, success and learning from losses. He's an incredible athlete and an even better man.

Enjoy my conversation with the legend himself: Daniel Christian.

You can follow "DC" here:

In 2012, Pete became a Greens senator for Tasmania when he replaced Bob Brown in the Senate. He was re-elected at the 2013 election and 2016 double dissolution election.

As a lifelong passionate surfer, Pete has a deep and abiding passion for the ocean. Over the last eight years, he has led political campaigns opposing Japanese whaling and illegal fishing, industrial super trawlers entering Australian waters, the environmental damage from industrial salmon farms, the impacts of plastics and micro-plastics on marine life and the devastation to marine ecosystems caused by shark nets and drum lines.

Pete’s passion for the environment runs deep. He became a community leader in the decade-long campaign against the Gunns Tamar Valley Pulp Mill, one that eventually saw the power of a community win out over powerful vested interests.

An economist by training, he spent the early years of his career as a young stockbroker in New York in the World Trade Centre just years before the tragedy of 9/11. Before that he graduated from ADFA, was a labourer in the WA mines, spent nearly a decade lecturing at the University of Tasmania, and running his own award-winning wine business.

With the invasion of Iraq in 2003, Pete joined the massive anti-war protests that were happening across the country, his first ever experience at a protest. In 2004, when it was announced that the proposed Tamar Valley Pulp Mill would dump up to 30 billion litres of toxic industrial waste into Bass Strait and clear fell 4 million hectares of native forests annually, Pete knew he had to get directly involved. Forestry giant Gunns Ltd joined forces with the Tasmanian Government and threw everything it had at pushing approvals for the mill through. After a lengthy battle, the company abandoned the project, all thanks to a grassroots community campaign which mobilised a tide of public opinion against the mill.

The takayna/Tarkine rainforest is something that, as a Tasmanian senator based in the north, he is particularly concerned about. The takayna/Tarkine is the very symbol of what is special and unique about Tasmania, but it is currently under threat from logging.

Pete has also spent much of the past eight years working to build policies for the Greens in economics and finance. His work in parliament has helped achieve strong multinational tax avoidance laws, successfully establish the Royal Commission into banking and the subsequent once-in-a-generation legislative reform agenda following this.

The challenge to tackle the climate emergency is now at the forefront of much of Pete’s work. He sees the huge fight ahead as one that recognises and restores our biodiversity, curbs emissions and leaves failed business models behind. Responding to the climate emergency offers a huge opportunity to create a blueprint for investing in future generations.

Follow Peter –

Guy Williment is a 27-year-old adventure photojournalist from the hallowed Avalon Beach, Sydney.

What does he ‘journal’? Nature; and our connection to it.

The whole photography thing came to him quite late (but what is time???). He was 23, had just finished a Media & Communications degree and had no idea what he wanted to do after studying. The one thing he did know was that he didn’t want to jump straight into a full-time job where he was going to be stuck in an office all day.

So, he saved up some pennies and booked a ticket overseas ~ Asolo trip to North America and Canada for 3 months to do a bunch of outdoor adventuring and the some ‘soul searching’. His sister let him borrow her Canon 7D for the trip… and, like that, he was hooked.

Why does he do it?

“Travelling solo allowed me to share my experiences and stories with people which I really enjoyed.”

Guy, and film maker, Spencer Frost (TMP EP002) formulated a (Winter!) surf trip up in the area of the Arctic Circle in order to make an independent adventure film. Shooting and surfing in 1C (Celsius) water with the air temp somewhere around -5C / -15C, surrounded by snow and giant mountains sounds like hell to most people (add in wet wetsuits and I’m done). But, for these two frothers, that made the adventure all the more the calling!

Fortune favours the brave!

What resulted was multi-award-winning film, A Corner of the Earth; which has toured and won those awards all over the world. (See: A Corner of the Earth on iTunes)

And, guess what?
Guy reveals to us some details for A Corner of the Earth 2 (working title) in this episode!

His first hardcover book from the aforementioned trip sold out of the 500 books he made. I have a signed copy of that photo journal on my coffee table to remind me of three things --

1.  Nature is the answer to any question and the solution to any problem.

2.  The art of photography is a wonderful gift and an incredible legacy.

3.  Fortune favours the brave.

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Tom Carroll is best known as one of the world’s greatest ever surfers and sportsmen. He holds two world professional surfing championships and three wins at Hawaii’s mega-challenging Pipeline. However, and more importantly, he envisioned and pioneered for surfing to become professional; and, if you’ve seen the state of surfing of late, he succeeded.

Tom is also a man who has lived, and learned, and lived and learned again. A man of his stature and nature has endured and processed the many ebbs and flows of life. What’s absolutely alluring about Tom is the sparkle in his eye for fun and joyous expression that has never ceased as he continues to climb the metaphorical mountains of performance and personal best.

On a personal note, I have spent a lot of time talking to and learning from Tom over the last few years. I appreciate many things about him – his ability to give you focused attention when talking about topics of interest; his kind and caring nature for not only his closest circle but for anyone whom he meets – new friends or old fans; his love and dedication for the sustainability of our beloved ocean and the planet; and his drive and determination to continue to pursue personal greatness alongside personal best.

We all would know Tom as an athlete but these days, Tom holds various roles in a diverse range of businesses and surf-inspired charities, as well as, coaching and as a trained and certified Vedic meditation teacher.

Please enjoy my conversation with the effervescent, Tom Carroll on The Mapplife Podcast.

N.B.

As the Founder and CEO of Sidelife Distribution, Mr Simple and Simple Watch Co., Dave looks over the creative and business direction of the business and has become one of Australia’s leading and most successful entrepreneurs. His ethos is grounded in the value of aligning your values on both a personal and professional level; which is what stands him out in an over-populated crowd. That, and his true, authentic and honest approach to sustainability.

Sidelife was founded in 2003 as a multi-brand retail and wholesale distribution company which in 2008 become the launching pad for Mr Simple clothing.

With a history in the snow, surf and skate industry David has a passion for the music, travel and board-sports culture which continues to influence his direction on a personal and professional level.

In this episode, Dave drops some serious knowledge bombs for budding business-minds, as well as, tells a few great stories about growing up, getting older and his desire for a legacy that matches his dedication to the planet and its people.

As Dave had to run off to a meeting before I could ask him over Zoom – here are his answers to our ‘Quick 5’ for you:

1. If you could invite anyone to dinner who would it be and why?

Anthony Bourdain. The chance to discuss life, travel and food with Bourdain would of been amazing.

2. What is one of your favourite films and why? 

I'm a Tarantino fan and I'm still loving Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. The locations, dialogue, music and fashion of Tarantino films are what makes them so re-watchable. The soundtrack is on high rotation on the record player.

3. Name one of the greatest days of your life?

Outside of my family and kids it would be the day we opened The Lab on Brunswick St Fitzroy 17/02/2003. That opening day was so nerve-wracking, and I still remember the 1st sale. Taking that leap of faith to leave a job and go out on your own is scary, exciting and liberating.

4. What is something that riles up your blood/gets you angry?

People that can't merge into traffic is up there... Apart from that I'm pretty calm most of the time.

5. What is something that lights you up/inspires you?

Seeing other people doing amazing things fires me up to be more creative.

What a legend.
Please enjoy my very enjoyable conversation with my pal, Dave Fraser on The Mapplife Podcast.

Find Dave (& his brands) here:

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@mrsimplegoods

@simplewatchco

@departmentofsimplethings

@dc.fraser

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