Art Of Brilliance Podcast

Ever feel like everyone’s watching your every move? In this episode, Andy tackles the ‘Spotlight Effect’ - the surprising psychological tendency to overestimate how much attention others pay to us. Think of that time you had a coffee stain on your coat and worried everyone would notice. Chances are, nobody did - most people are too focused on their own little mishaps. This tendency can undermine your self-esteem and limit your potential. So, tune in to learn a bit more, discover a concept Andy calls “FOPO” and ultimately figure out how you can step out of your own spotlight, when you need to.

In this episode, Andy talks about anxiety and our relationship with it in today’s world.Recognising the complexities of modern life, he highlights the importance of appreciating the present while acknowledging the challenges created by overstimulation, fake news, excessive screen time, and the never-ending buffet of convenience and overindulgence.He shares a completely true, made-up story about a doctor who invents a cure for anxiety. It’s a tongue-in-cheek tale about the paradox of trying to eliminate worry - and the potential consequences of doing so.This is a deep and thought-provoking episode, designed to spark honest discussion about anxiety and the wider pressures surrounding mental health. Whether it helps you manage anxiety a little better or recognise the importance of seeking proper support, this episode is a must-listen.

In this episode, Andy talks about courage, and how it’s not always what you think it is.  From stepping outside your comfort zones and being brave and asking for help, to allowing yourself to be vulnerable and embracing a failure. It takes a lot of bravery to navigate the modern world, so this week, Andy talks through 10 truths about courage.  So, if you don’t class yourself as someone who is particularly courageous, give this episode a listen. You might be pleasantly surprised.

Join Andy for a fascinating dive into the “Cobra Effect,” a real-life cautionary tale of how a British Raj’s well-intentioned bounty on cobras dramatically backfired. This episode explores how our best efforts to fix or control situations - whether it’s curbing pesky snakes or managing our public image - can sometimes cause us more trouble than what we started with. With examples ranging from Barbra Streisand’s unintended viral moment to a reflection on modern social media, this episode is a bit of a cage rattler, with some big thinking about how we manage mental health around the world. Maybe a simple shift in perspective might just be the antidote?

Welcome to series 8 of the Art of Being Brilliant podcast! In this episode, Andy discusses the importance of shining brightly in a world that can sometimes feel a bit dark. Never missing the chance to use a good metaphor, Andy talks about light bulbs to illustrate how people can either dim their glow or illuminate their surroundings. Ultimately, it's about the need for us all to embrace resilience and positivity (especially during challenging times) so that when everything is a bit dim, it's important for YOU to start shining, full beam.

Welcome to series 8 of the Art of Being Brilliant podcast! We're joined by the Doctor of Happiness, Andy Cope, who loves to chat about all things happiness, personal development and wellbeing. This episode, Andy talks about the importance of finding some fun in your life... whilst sharing a light-hearted take on traditional horoscopes.

Do you ever wish that life was just a little bit simpler? In this week's episode, Carl joins us to talk about... Paddington Bear. Why? Because he's a true 2percenter - who manages to take his (rather unfair) share of challenges in his stride. He keeps things simple. So, this week's episode has a few tips (and a challenge) that will help you live a simpler life. So if you find yourself constantly saying, "I just need things to calm down a bit"... this episode has been made for you.

This week, Andy asks "what hasn’t happened, that you didn't want, that you haven't celebrated"... er... what? Maybe you went to the loo and there wasn't a crocodile in there? Maybe you drove to work and didn't get a flat tyre? Look, we get it, It's a ridiculous question, but like all things Art of Brill, there is a clever twist to this story... so if you've got 5 minutes, Andy would love to explain how asking something daft like this, can help you have a MUCH better day.

Ever get the feeling that things just don't go to plan? Yeah, we've been there. In this episode, let Flis take you through how a day in the holiday consisting of pyjamas, schedule changes and a nasty accident made her not just think twice about making plans... but share a few tips on how to deal with life when it starts running in the opposite direction.

Today, we're joined by positive psychologist Nikki Ayles, who is talking about the power of kindness. Nikki explores how doing a random act of kindness to someone else, can actually boost our own happiness. When we do something kind, our brains release dopamine, making us feel great. Plus, the gratitude we receive amplifies this effect, enhancing our self-esteem and strengthening relationships. So have a listen and be treated to some inspiring insights and examples of how a small act can make a big difference!

Welcome to episode 23. Today, Peter Anderton tackles the tricky issue of Mood Hoovers. Mood Hoovers are those negative people in your life who are stuck in a bit of a grumpy mood and who constantly drain your energy. Peter explains that while you can’t fix a Mood hoover, there are three powerful techniques to help you manage their impact on you and those around you.

This week, we welcome back Dr. Andy Cope! Andy takes us on a wild ride with a quirky news story and a thought-provoking message. Did you hear about the man who joined a search party looking for himself? A bit ridiculous, isn't it? So on this week's episode, Andy has got a ridiculous challenge for you. It's super easy, especially if you're a Googlebox fan. So tune in for a fun yet profound reminder to stop merely observing life and start actively participating in the vibrant, messy adventure it truly is.

Welcome to episode 21! This week, Ollie delves into how easy it is for actions to have unintended consequences. He starts with the Streisand effect, where Barbra Streisand’s efforts to hide her mansion actually made it more famous. Then, Ollie explores how social media, designed to connect us, might be increasing social anxiety and division instead. Ollie has some interesting thoughts on how to use social media as an addition to, not a replacement for, our real-world connections.

Welcome back to the Art of Being Brilliant Podcast. This week, Mike Martin takes us on a journey, quite literally, as he compares life to a challenging hike in the Welsh hills. Mikey shares how the twists, turns, and steep climbs of the trail are a lot like our path to self-improvement. Just when you think you’ve reached the top, there’s always another hill to climb. But don’t worry, there’s a pub (or a rewarding break) at the end of every trek. Tune in to hear Mike’s three key lessons on how to keep going, embrace new goals, and enjoy the endless adventure of becoming your best self.

Welcome to episode 19. This week we have Fliss Vivian talking about laundry. You see, Fliss was looking at doing her laundry and noticed how there was a staggering quantity of socks that needed washing, every single week. And that was just the socks. What's this got to do with positivity or happiness we hear you ask? Well, Fliss started to realise how laundry was a bit like life... so she decided to record this podcast and share with you a delightful little tip that will make managing both your laundry, and your life, that little bit easier.

Welcome to episode 18. Dr Andy is back this week to talk about flying frogs. Andy is reading one of the pages from the new edition of the Art of Being Brilliant book, the parable of Clarence and Felix. It's a very short story about Clarence, who is trying to get Felix (a frog) to learn to fly... give it a listen, we're certain you'll be able to relate to it!

Welcome to episode 17. This week we're welcoming Art of Brilliance trainer Paul Field to the podcast table. Paul is here to tell you all about his aftershave collection. He's got a few everyday go-to options, some gifted by family or friends, and a few bottles of the really swanky stuff that he saves for a special occasion. Why you should spend 5 minutes listening to Paul talk about aftershave, I hear you ask? Because Paul figured out that his aftershave choices are quite similar to his attitude choices... Curious what he means? All is explained in this 5 minute podcast!

Welcome to episode 16. Dr Andy is back this week to talk about Sesame Street. Why? Because he recently found out that season 1 and 2 of this adorable children's TV show has a warning that they "are not suitable for children"... why? You'll have to listen to find out!

Welcome to episode 15. Hannah Knowles is this week's podcast host and, unfortunately, she's got some bad news. The bad news? Today, Hannah is pretty sure that something is going to go wrong for you. The good news though? Whilst you can't control what has gone wrong, you can choose how you react to it. She shares a few quick tips on how you can start doing this today.

Welcome to episode 14. We're back with Darrell Woodman, who is celebrating 13 happy years working with The Art of Brilliance. To celebrate, Daz is reflecting on what his life was like before he read the Art of Being Brilliant book (new edition is out now by the way!) and shares with you how a strategy called "Three Good Things" can help you get out of a daily rut.