Épisodes

  • 079: The #1 Relationship Killer with Vicki Kennedy
    Jan 7 2026

    In this heart-opening episode of The Alchemist Lounge, Alex Atwood sits down with author, therapist, and relationship expert Vicki Kennedy to explore how couples can transform conflict into connection—and why "It's Never Personal" might be the mantra that saves your relationship and your sanity. Drawing from her own story of heartbreak and healing, Vicki shares the tools behind the Emotionally Focused Therapy (EFT) model, how "demon dialogues" sabotage intimacy, and what it means to drop into primary emotion, co-regulate, and become true allies with your partner.

    Whether you're single, coupled, or in the trenches of relational breakdown, this conversation will reshape how you relate—to others and to yourself.

    In this episode, you will hear:
    (0:00) The "Oh Moment" & Emotional Hijacks: when your nervous system says "I don't matter"—and how to course-correct.
    (2:35) Arguments vs. Fights: how to distinguish hurt from harm and why healthy friction is essential.
    (6:05) The Hold Me Tight Workshop: why couples of every stage—from dating to divorced—can benefit.
    (10:44) Demon Dialogues Decoded: what happens when your partner "never listens" and why it's rarely about the dishes.
    (24:13) Vicki's Story: divorce, five therapists, and the training that finally clicked.
    (27:46) Why EFT Works: the neuroscience behind connection, and how secure attachment makes you a better human.
    (36:53) Shadow Work & Self-Compassion: why the parts you hide are the keys to healing.
    (46:06) The Five-Step "Never Personal" Process: from pain to presence, and holding what hurts to release it.
    (57:35) Ego, Forgiveness & Freedom: the summit beyond the summit—and the realization that "there's nothing to forgive."

    If you're ready to evolve how you love—and how you live—this one's not to be missed. Drop your biggest insight in the comments, and let us know: what demon dialogue are you rewriting?

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    1 h et 8 min
  • 078: The Second Exit: Healing Through Heartbreak with Peter
    Dec 5 2025

    What happens when a high-performing entrepreneur walks away from it all? Peter Corbett, former CEO who sold his boutique agency to a global firm, opens up in this deep and personal conversation with Alex Atwood.

    In this candid and soulful episode, Peter shares the lessons he's learned through spiritual practice, emotional unraveling, and the second major exit of his life—his marriage.

    00:00 – Intro: From Marketing CEO to Spiritual Explorer
    02:08 – Bringing Art Through the Roof: "I Thought I Made It"
    05:00 – Opulence & Awakening: When Success Sparks a Spiritual Journey
    09:30 – Letting Go of Fame & Gain: Zen, Hospice Work & Finding Presence
    13:00 – Relationship Struggles While Letting Go of Identity
    16:43 – Building Businesses for Love: Uncovering Deep Childhood Patterns
    20:59 – The Moment His Marriage Collapsed
    22:20 – "This Was Done For Me": Peter's Enlightened Divorce Mindset
    27:36 – From Trauma to Transformation: The Role of the "Soul Contract"
    30:07 – Grieving Through the Body: Ice Baths, Yoga, No Alcohol
    36:34 – Rebuilding Self-Worth Without Productivity
    38:52 – Dating After 12 Years: "I Don't Know What Love Is"
    41:04 – Advice on Grief & Loss: Bringing Pain Close Without Numbing
    47:36 – Atlas: Peter's New Venture on Holistic Well-Being
    48:06 – Final Words: "Are You Murdering Yourself For Someone Else?"

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    50 min
  • 077: Stillness & Calm Through Meditation with Bob Roth: Why TM Works in Real Life
    Nov 14 2025

    In this episode of The Alchemist Lounge, we sit down with Bob Roth, CEO of the David Lynch Foundation and one of the world's leading teachers of Transcendental Meditation (TM), to explore the science, practice, and social impact of meditation. Bob breaks down the three core categories of meditation, shares how TM delivers deep physiological rest, and explains why his team is working to integrate TM into hospitals, the VA, and workplaces through Meditate America. We also dig into research on the "group effect" of meditation and real-world results from programs like DC Central Kitchen.

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    54 min
  • 076: From "Illegal" Immigrant to Educator: Crossing Borders, Building Futures with Chef Felix
    Sep 9 2025

    In this episode of The Alchemist Lounge, we sit down with Chef Felix Cortez—an immigrant, educator, and community pillar—to trace his journey from working since age 8 in rural Mexico to crossing into the U.S. at 17, grinding through farm and dishwashing jobs, rising to line cook and chef, and ultimately answering a faith-driven call to teach at Orange Technical College in Orlando. It's a grounded look at immigration beyond headlines—one day at a time, hard work, and service to others.

    In this episode, you will hear:

    • (0:00) Why this story matters now: moving past immigration headlines to a human story; meet Chef Felix.

    • (2:00) Growing up in Mexico: dad leaves to provide; Felix works from age 8 to support the family.

    • (10:18) First spark for food: helping make underground barbacoa at 12—early culinary skills before he knew it.

    • (23:06) First U.S. grind: peppers, oranges, heavy labor; driving tractors; moving for love and opportunity.

    • (25:42) Kitchen door opens: dishwasher → breakfast line; culinary school (2003); stints with Marriott & Eden Roc.

    • (28:29) Living in the gray: fear, expired license years, and choosing to keep moving—one day at a time.

    • (29:49) Orlando chapter: food service → teaching; eight years mentoring students into real careers.

    • (37:46) A calling confirmed: a 2006 prophecy to "teach what you have" fulfilled in 2016 at Orange Technical College.

    • (41:38) Practical mentorship: start small, learn English, pay taxes, stack skills; a student's $23/hr Disney offer at under 20.

    • (51:03) Starting over (again): it's not about money—it's about service, family, and becoming a pillar where you live.

    If you're into resilience, food, and faith—told through the lens of a teacher lifting the next generation—this one's for you. Drop your favorite takeaway and share it with someone who needs a path forward.

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    56 min
  • 075: Playbook for Sales, Networking & Growth with Adam Sosnick
    Sep 3 2025

    In this episode of The Alchemist Lounge, we sit down with Adam Sosnick—Valuetainment exec and co-host on the PBD Podcast—to trace his gritty climb from Miami kid and stand-up comic to top producer in finance and on-air personality. Adam breaks down his "three R's" (relationships → reputation → revenue), the cold-calling years that forged his edge, and the long game that led from a chance gym chat with Patrick Bet-David to building one of the most talked-about shows in business and politics. We also dive into hip-hop's cultural arc, masculinity, stoicism, and why being an elite "#2" on the right team can beat chasing solo glory.

    In this episode, you will hear:

    • (0:00) The Three R's & a Cold-Open Flex: relationships → reputation → revenue, and the "pick your title" moment that set a new trajectory.

    • (2:00) Diddy, Hip-Hop & Masculinity: how 90s culture shaped ambition—and where stoicism fits today.

    • (6:05) From Beastie Boys to East/West Beef: the mid-90s shift that turned rap into a cultural battleground.

    • (25:31) Growing Up in Miami: a father with cerebral palsy, work ethic, empathy—and a household that taught grit.

    • (30:12) Tough Love → Fuel: family conflict, "idolize–villainize–humanize," and choosing to rise.

    • (36:53) Comedy Roots at FSU: class clown to first gigs, and learning EQ that later powered sales.

    • (40:30) Denver & Comedy Works: a CNN friend's ultimatum, stage time, and living lean on unemployment.

    • (44:52) Boca Pivot to Finance: cold-calling life settlements, "your network is your net worth," and a $5K first year.

    • (47:53) Recession Lessons & 401(k): sticking it out, "pick your title," and the floodgates opening.

    • (50:29) Meeting Patrick Bet-David: a gym conversation at NAILBA (2012) turns into a 2019 partnership—relationship capital paying off.

    • (1:00:49) Finding a Voice Online: "save that money," skipping the 'cool-guy contest,' and pivoting to substance.

    • (1:16:16) Building the PBD Podcast: launching in 2020's chaos and why teamwork beats hero ball.

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    1 h et 31 min
  • 074: Behind the Laughs: Vinnie Oshana on Comedy, Culture, Politics and the PBD Podcast
    Aug 7 2024

    Join host Alex Atwood in an engaging conversation with comedian Vincent Oshana. This episode dives deep into Vincent's journey from his military days to becoming a comedy prodigy, and the challenges he faced along the way. Vincent shares heartfelt stories, hilarious anecdotes, and valuable life lessons, making this episode a perfect blend of humor and inspiration.

    IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR:

    0:00 - From Vitamin Store to Comedy Club

    • Turning a vitamin store into a comedy club and live studio.

    2:15 - Military to Comedy

    • Vincent's journey from the military to becoming a comedian.

    6:34 - Hollywood Auditions

    • The challenges and triumphs of auditioning in Hollywood.

    11:06 - Identity and Humor

    • Using personal stories and humor to connect with the audience.

    15:11 - The Art of Stand-Up

    • How comedy brings joy and spiritual connection.

    21:37 - Flow State in Comedy

    • Experiencing peak performance and selling out shows.

    27:17 - Overcoming Alcoholism

    • Vincent's journey to sobriety and avoiding life's poisons.

    32:56 - Comedy and Politics

    • Mixing political views with stand-up comedy.

    39:18 - Diverse Conversations

    • The importance of having diverse and meaningful conversations.

    43:48 - Humanity's Dark Side

    • Discussing the darker aspects of humanity and the need for spirituality.

    48:30 - Society and Unity

    • The importance of unity and collective action in society.

    54:20 - Media Manipulation

    • How the media manipulates narratives and the importance of awareness.

    1:00:35 - Generational Responsibility

    • The role of different generations in shaping culture and politics.

    SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW

    Have you subscribed to our podcast? We'd love for you to subscribe if you haven't yet.

    We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    CONNECT WITH VINCENT OSHANA

    YouTube: The Vincent Oshana Show

    Facebook: Vincent Oshana

    Instagram: Vincent Oshana (@vincentoshana)

    Twitter: Vincent Oshana (@VincentOshana) / X

    CONNECT WITH US

    Website: https://alexatwood.co/

    Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-alchemist-lounge/id1552229674

    Twitter: https://twitter.com/alexatwood/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexatwood_coaching/

    Facebook: https://facebook.com/alexatwood.coaching

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    1 h et 7 min
  • 073: Stretching Beyond Limits with Brian Cook
    Jun 17 2024

    In this episode of The Alchemist Lounge, we sit down with Brian Cook, Founder and CEO of Stretch Med, to delve into the intersection of health, wealth, and personal growth. Brian shares his journey from fitness enthusiast to health entrepreneur and his vision for transforming the hospitality and wellness industries through innovative practices and educational models.

    IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR:

    (0:00) Discover the Stretch Revolution with Brian Cook

    • Dive into the transformative benefits and innovative concepts of stretching.

    (4:30) Stretching for a Pain-Free and Longer Life

    • Explore how strategic stretching can alleviate chronic pain and promote longevity.

    (8:15) Stretching Towards Balance and Growth

    • Learn how stretching supports work-life balance and fosters personal growth.

    (15:06) Innovating Wealth Creation in Education with Brian Cook

    • Brian discusses his approach to building a new educational model focused on wealth creation.

    (21:54) Entrepreneurial Ventures in Education and Wealth

    • Insights into integrating entrepreneurship into educational frameworks to foster wealth creation.

    (26:03) Designing Profitable Solutions to Social Challenges

    • How Brian's business models are crafted to solve societal issues profitably.

    (30:59) Weaving Wealth and Wellness Through Yoga

    • Discussion on the intersection of yoga, mindfulness, and wealth creation.

    (36:54) Empathy and Growth: Keys to Entrepreneurial Success

    • Brian shares how empathy, personal growth, and entrepreneurial spirit drive success.

    SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW

    Have you subscribed to our podcast? We'd love for you to subscribe if you haven't yet.

    We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    CONNECT WITH BRIAN COOK

    • Website: https://stretchmedstudios.com/
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianrcook1/
    • YouTube: StretchMed Studios - YouTube
    • Facebook: StretchMed Studios

    CONNECT WITH US

    • Website: https://alexatwood.co/
    • Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-alchemist-lounge/id1552229674
    • Twitter: https://twitter.com/alexatwood/
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexatwood_coaching/
    • Facebook: https://facebook.com/alexatwood.coaching

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    44 min
  • 072: Connections Through Story with Kyle Gray
    Apr 11 2024

    In this episode of the Alchemist Lounge Podcast, we have Kyle Gray, a true wizard of words and a sage of storytelling. As a Story Strategist, Kyle has mastered the art of blending the science of presentation with the artistry of narrative to create profound connections across diverse professions. From accountants to psychedelic therapists, Kyle's unique approach has empowered people from all walks of life to tell their stories in ways that inspire and succeed.

    Join us as Kyle shares his journey from being a singer-songwriter to becoming a renowned Story Strategist and author. He will dive into how storytelling has played a crucial role in overcoming personal challenges, including his own battle with an autoimmune disease, and how it has helped others transform their professional and personal lives. Get ready to explore the alchemy of storytelling and discover how you can use it to enhance your own communication skills and lead a more empowered life.

    IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL HEAR:

    • 0:00 - The Magic of Storytelling: Kyle introduces the power of narrative in professional communication.

    • 4:58 - A Personal Journey: From singer-songwriter to Story Strategist, Kyle shares how personal challenges have enriched his storytelling skills.

    • 14:47 - Building Trust with Stories: Discover how Kyle helps professionals in alternative medicine overcome barriers to sales through engaging storytelling.

    • 19:21 - Overcoming Obstacles: Kyle discusses using storytelling and breathwork to tackle personal insecurities and professional challenges.

    • 25:38 - Stories of Empowerment: Learn about the empowering effects of storytelling on personal growth.

    • 30:50 - Effective Communication Tips: Kyle offers tips on using storytelling to improve clarity and impact in communication.

    • 36:41 - Leading with Empathy: Insights into how vulnerability and storytelling can enhance leadership qualities.

    • 43:49 - Looking Ahead: Kyle shares his future plans and the personal insights gained from his health journey.

    SUBSCRIBE AND REVIEW

    Have you subscribed to our podcast? We'd love for you to subscribe if you haven't yet.

    We'd love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select "Ratings and Reviews" and "Write a Review" then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

    CONNECT WITH KYLE GRAY

    • Website: https://www.thestoryengine.co/
    • The Story Engine: https://www.thestoryengine.co/book
    • Selling With Story: https://www.thestoryengine.co/selling-with-story/
    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylethegray/
    • Instagram: @heykylegray
    • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/heykylegray
    • Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-story-engine-podcast/

    CONNECT WITH US

    • Website: https://alexatwood.co/
    • Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-alchemist-lounge/id1552229674
    • Twitter: https://twitter.com/alexatwood/
    • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexatwood_coaching/
    • Facebook: https://facebook.com/alexatwood.coaching

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    52 min