In this episode, I sit down with Levi Jacobs—epic fantasy author, world traveler, and self-proclaimed fruit seller—to explore his unconventional approach to meditation. For Levi, mindfulness doesn't require a cushion or incense; instead, it involves stepping outside, lighting a cigar, and immersing himself in the ritual. This practice becomes a moment of deep, active focus, allowing him to center his thoughts and find stillness amidst the chaos.​

He's the author of the Tidecaller Chronicles, beginning with Daughter of Flood and Fury, a gripping tale of a girl born with forbidden magic in a world where monks and witches are mortal enemies. His stories often delve into themes of identity, power structures, and the courage to defy societal norms. ​

In this conversation, we delve into how Levi's meditation practice influences his creative process and how finding moments of stillness can lead to profound insights. He shares how these rituals help him navigate the complexities of storytelling and life itself.​

Stay tuned for Part 2, where we discuss Levi's journey as a writer, his inspirations, and the worlds he's crafted in his novels.

Insight doesn’t have to be earned—it’s always available. Growth doesn’t have to be forced—it happens when we show up to life as we are.

This podcast is an invitation to explore how we already work: the quiet intelligence behind our best choices, the clarity that comes when we’re present, and the natural direction that reveals itself when we stop trying so hard to figure it all out.

You won’t find steps or strategies here.
Just reflections, stories, and conversations pointing you back to something simple and powerful—your own direct experience.

Don’t take my word for it.
Try it for yourself.

Progress doesn’t always come from pushing harder. Sometimes, it’s as simple as realizing that everything you need is already within you.

In this episode, we’re pointing to something deeper—something quieter. The idea that learning from others isn’t about gaining something new, but about waking up something inside you that’s been there all along.

When you begin to see that your experience of reality is shaped by your thoughts—both the ones you’re having right now and the ones you’ve accumulated about what life should mean—you also start to see that the unfolding of life isn’t happening to you... it’s happening through you.

If you’ve been feeling stuck, or searching for a way around the challenges you face, maybe the invitation isn’t to try harder—but to ease up on the mental gas pedal. To settle down inside. To create space for clear thinking to guide you in the moment.

Progress isn’t about perfection. It’s about allowing yourself to mess up, to learn, to grow—and still arrive.
Even if where you land looks different than where you thought you were headed… sometimes those unexpected turns are the most meaningful parts of the journey.

So try it on for yourself.
This is another honest, fireside-style conversation here at basecamp.
And just remember: you are all that you need.
No one’s coming to save you—because that person has been here the whole time.

flowsIn this episode, I sit down with my good friend Jason to finally capture one of the many conversations we’ve had over the years—the kind that flow and somehow always lead to something deeper.

We talked about what it’s like watching my son, Danny, learn how to ride a bike (yes, he still needs a bigger one) and how that experience mirrors the way we grow as adults—through insight, not force.

This conversation explores parenting, personal growth, and the quiet power of perspective. From shifting mindsets to the difference between investigating and simply seeing something new, we look at what it really means to live with more ease and clarity.

It’s reflective, honest, and full of those moments where something just… lands. We’re glad you’re here to listen in.

In this episode of Climbing the Summit, I sit down with Brittany Switlick, an E-RYT 500 yoga instructor, founder of Lotus Yoga School, and author of Dancing with Our Selves: A Practical Guide to Harness the Ego and Live on Purpose.

We dive deep into the power of the ego, how yoga philosophy meets modern personal development, and the tools we can use to step into a more conscious, intentional life.

🔹 How naming your ego can help you transform your mindset
🔹 The connection between yoga philosophy and personal growth
🔹 Shifting from self-sabotage to self-awareness
🔹 Practical tools for integrating mindfulness into daily life

If you're ready to rethink your relationship with the ego and discover how to use it as a tool for growth, this episode is for you!

📌 Resources & Links:

📖 Get the Book – Dancing with Our Selves
Amazon Link

🌐 Visit Brittany’s Website
www.brittanyhopkins.com

🎉 Book Launch Event – March 26th

🧘‍♀️ Join 40 Days of Yamas & Niyamas
Explore the Program

📲 Follow Brittany on Instagram
@brittany.hopkins.switlick

🎧 Enjoyed this episode?
✔️ Subscribe & leave a review!
✔️ Share this episode with a friend who would love this conversation!

In this episode of Climbing the Summit, we take an unexpected detour—from racing simulators to life’s bigger picture. Inspired by the true story behind Gran Turismo, we explore how our own learning curves, failures, and unconventional mindsets shape who we become. Danny reflects on how moments from a video game-turned-movie echo the real-life hero’s journey we’re all navigating—full of setbacks, breakthroughs, and the surprising gold found in the steps we often overlook.

Drawing parallels between elite athletes like Michael Phelps, underdog stories like Spud Webb, and his own path of self-discovery, Danny dives into the heart of what it means to climb your personal summit. It’s not about chasing the peak—it’s about falling in love with the climb itself. Through stories of failure, resilience, and the freedom that comes from simply showing up as you are, this episode invites you to rethink success, embrace your own journey, and find joy in every twist, turn, and bump in the road.

Because sometimes, the real treasure isn’t at the end of the yellow brick road—it’s in every golden step you take along the way. 🌟

In this episode, Danny Cobbin explores the power of a growth mindset, particularly in the context of parenting. He shares a personal story about his initial approach to disciplining his child, which was rooted in a fixed mindset. However, through the guidance of others and his own self-reflection, Danny came to understand the importance of embracing a learning curve and seeing challenges as opportunities for growth.Danny delves into the impact of his own personal experiences, such as the loss of his father, and how they shaped his perspective on life and parenting. He emphasizes the value of self-awareness, acknowledging one's own trauma, and using that knowledge to become a better parent and individual.The discussion also touches on the role of coaching in personal development, with Danny highlighting the importance of self-reflection, accepting mistakes, and making small, consistent efforts towards growth. He encourages listeners to consider reaching out to him for coaching if they are interested in exploring a growth mindset and improving their lives.Throughout the episode, Danny provides practical advice and insights on how to incorporate a growth mindset into daily life, using examples like helping his son with dental hygiene. He underscores the idea that growth and development don't require a grand, focused effort, but rather a consistent awareness and alignment with one's goals and values.By the end of this episode, listeners will be inspired to embrace a growth mindset, recognize opportunities for personal and parental development, and take small, meaningful steps towards their desired growth and transformation.

Contact Danny Cobbin (danny.cobbin@gmail.com) to discuss coaching and exploring a growth mindset.

"It is like a finger pointing at the moon. Don’t concentrate on the finger, or you will miss all that heavenly glory." — Bruce Lee

Whatever you want to get better at is easier than you think. If you catch a glimpse of what I’m pointing to in this episode, you’ll unlock your human superpower.

Are you curious or have questions? Feel free to reach out at DannyCobbin@gmail.com.