A Wake Up Call

What if the thing keeping you stuck isn’t your circumstances… but who you’re blaming for them? In this episode, Tess and Layne unpack the blame game through sport, injury and a very real-life moment between the two of them. From sand sprints, stress fractures and the Australian Open final to world titles and wounded egos, this conversation dives into what happens when we look everywhere but within. Watching Djokovic and Alcaraz battle it out, Layne reflects on the subtle signs of belief versus excuse: body language, composure, where the eyes go under pressure. She shares how, in her early career, every loss had a culprit, the boards, the judges, the wind, anyone but her. Until she realised the common denominator in all her disappointment was herself. They explore the science behind blame as a survival mechanism. When we feel threatened, overwhelmed or unsafe, the brain looks for control. Blame gives the illusion of control. But it also keeps us stuck in stress, fuels shame, and quietly drains our energy. Tess and Layne share a vulnerable moment where blame crept into their own dynamic, and how awareness, regulation and ownership shifted it from defence to growth. The lesson? Ownership without punishment changes everything. In this episode, you’ll learn:What elite athletes reveal under pressure: belief versus excuseLayne’s early career pattern of blaming everyone but herselfThe fear of success, fear of rejection, and how they drive blameThe neuroscience of blame as a safety responseHow blame turns inward into shame and fuels negative self-talkWhy poor communication often sits underneath the blame cycleParenting through blame and helping kids feel safe and seenA practical toolkit to interrupt the blame loop:Name it without judgementRegulate before you respondAsk what’s in your controlSeparate responsibility from personal attackReplace blame with curiosityWhy people pleasing in conflict prevents real growthThe freedom that comes from owning your part and letting it go If you’ve been blaming someone else, or yourself, for where you are right now, this episode is your invitation to pause. To breathe. To look within. And to choose growth over defence. Because when you drop the blame, you drop the weight. Connect with Awake • Join the Awake Collective Community for monthly masterclasseshttps://awake-academy.mykajabi.com/awake-collective-sales • Get Awake’s transformative book: Know Yourself, Grow Yourself • Watch the episodes on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@Awake_Academy_ • Follow Layne on Instagram @laynebeachley • Follow Tess on Instagram @tesscbrouwer • Follow Awake Academy on Instagram @awake_academy • Book us for a workshop: wakeup@awakeacademy.com.au • Awake’s TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@awakeacademy_ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if the real glow-up isn’t a new face, a new body, or a new role… but a new voice? In this episode, Tess and Layne sit down with actor and creator Erika Heynatz for an honest, funny and empowering conversation about rejection, ageing, identity, and finally owning your voice. They rewind to sunrise walks in Mona Vale, where a slow-burn friendship helped both women navigate self-doubt and rebuilding seasons. From there, Erika opens up about being assessed for a living, surviving constant rejection, and the resilience it takes to not let “no” define your worth. Her reframe? If you got the script, you’re already in the game. At the heart of the conversation is Erika’s one-woman cabaret show Stupormodel , a bold exploration of the modelling industry, impossible beauty standards, shame, and the commodification of women’s self-esteem. Writing it, funding it and performing it became a cathartic act of courage: choosing to be seen, fully. They also unpack perimenopause and menopause, from brain fog and insomnia to weight changes and anxiety, and what’s actually helped: hormone therapy, Chinese medicine, breathwork, sunlight, ocean time, and fiercely protecting non-negotiables. The episode lands on a powerful reminder: you are the creative director of your life. In this episode, you will learn:Rejection and resilience in high-pressure industriesBeauty, brains, and being labelled “too much”Shame, vulnerability, and taking creative risksPerimenopause/menopause and real support strategiesWomen backing women instead of competingWhy your looks never determines your worthiness If you’ve ever felt like you’ve been living by someone else’s script, this episode is a reminder that you can rewrite it. You can get louder. You can get truer. You can take up space. And you can choose a life that actually feels like yours. Connect with Awake • Join the Awake Collective Community for monthly masterclasseshttps://awake-academy.mykajabi.com/awake-collective-sales • Get Awake’s transformative book: Know Yourself, Grow Yourself • Watch the episodes on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@Awake_Academy_ • Follow Layne on Instagram @laynebeachley• Follow Tess on Instagram @tesscbrouwer• Follow Awake Academy on Instagram @awake_academy Connect with Erika• Instagram: @erikaheynatz• Website: erikaheynatz.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if your best self isn’t the version that pushes through… but the one that knows when to soften? In today’s episode, Tess and Layne get real about the days where life is lifing. Injury. Pain. Fatigue. The spirals. The inner critic turning the volume up to stadium levels. And the big question underneath it all: can you still be your best self when you’re not coping? They open with a grounded, vulnerable check-in. Tess shares the joy of a “dawn dance” that made her feel alive again, followed by the brutal crash that reminded her she’s still living in a body with limits. Layne mirrors it with her own healing journey in a moon boot, and the familiar high-performer reflex: turn recovery into another mission… until one disrupted day sends everything sideways. From there, the episode becomes a practical toolkit for the “down days”. The moments when your calendar needs clearing, your expectations need adjusting, and your nervous system needs gentleness more than grit. Tess and Layne walk through six steps that help you stabilise early, avoid the shame spiral, and recover with more compassion (and less negotiation with reality). It’s an episode for anyone who’s been feeling broken, behind, or frustrated that they “should be better by now.” Because sometimes being your best self isn’t doing more. It’s choosing the smallest, wisest next move, and letting that be enough. In this episode you’ll learn:What “being your best self” actually looks like when you’re injured, exhausted, or overwhelmedThe crash after the high: why adrenaline can mask your limits… until it doesn’tThe head-noise spiral and how pain can pull you back into old trauma storiesThe body whispers before it screams: spotting the warning signs soonerThe six-step “inner rehab” toolkit:Surrender (stop negotiating with reality)Clear the calendar (delay what can wait)Stock up (set your environment up to heal)Fill your cup (restore gently, not performatively)Get help early (SOS before you suffer in silence)Pamper, don’t push (softness that speeds recovery)Why rest with devices isn’t always rest, and how stimulation keeps your body “on”Treating yourself like someone you love: what you’d recommend to a friend in your shoesThe reframe: slowing down isn’t weakness, it’s leadership If you’re in a season where you’re trying to hold it together but you feel like you’re running on fumes, this episode is your permission slip to come back to basics: accept what is, soften the pressure, and take the next right step. And if listening brings up something tender, Tess and Layne remind you you don’t have to do it alone. Reach out to your people, or join them inside the Awake Collective for deeper support, tools, and coaching that helps you keep doing the work. Connect with Awake • Join the Awake Collective Community for monthly masterclasseshttps://awake-academy.mykajabi.com/awake-collective-sales • Get Awake’s transformative book: Know Yourself, Grow Yourself • Watch the episodes on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@Awake_Academy_ • Follow Layne on Instagram @laynebeachley• Follow Tess on Instagram @tesscbrouwer• Follow Awake Academy on Instagram @awake_academy • Book us for a workshop: wakeup@awakeacademy.com.au • Awake’s TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@awakeacademy_ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if self leadership isn’t about doing more… but about learning to listen sooner?Today, Tess and Layne sit down with global leadership expert, author, and “conversation architect” Holly Ransom for a deeply human chat about resilience, purpose, and the tools that stop high performers from quietly burning out behind the scenes.They rewind to the sliding doors moments that shaped Holly’s life, from being spotted by Richard Branson and thrown into the world of hosting and interviewing, to a raw early chapter where overwhelm, exhaustion and a heavy diagnosis forced her to rebuild from the ground up. Together, they unpack the difference between being clinically unwell and being chronically overworked, and why so many of us reach for labels before we look at sleep, stress, nutrition, movement and recovery.From there, the episode becomes a practical masterclass in energy management. Holly shares the shift that changed everything for her: manage energy, not time. They explore how wearables like the Oura Ring can be a powerful mirror (if you actually listen to it), why sleep hygiene matters more than you think, and how micro breaks, breathwork, and play can downregulate your nervous system in minutes, not hours.This is an episode for anyone who feels like they’re “coping”… but running on fumes. If you’ve been pushing through, overriding your body, or living in permanent upregulation, this conversation will bring you back to the simplest question: what do I truly need right now?In this episode, we talk about:Holly’s sliding doors moments and how one opportunity can reroute a whole lifeThe early burnout chapter, the weight of labels, and what “push through” culture costs usThe difference between depression and being overwhelmed, overworked, and overtiredWhy self leadership starts with self awareness, self knowing, and convictionManaging energy, not time, and matching your best hours to your most important workThe Oura Ring effect: how data can change behaviour (and why it’s useless if you ignore it)Sleep hygiene shifts that dramatically improve recovery, even with the same hours in bedUpregulation vs downregulation and why most of us only train one directionMicro breaks: how 90 seconds to 3 minutes can reset your nervous systemBreathwork basics, box breathing, and why it works even when you think it’s “woo”Energy vampires and learning to notice who or what drains you after the factThe itty bitty shitty committee, courage zones, and doing the scary thing with a meaningful whyHow kids reintroduce play, presence, and joy (whether you’re ready or not)What leaders like Amal Clooney, Obama, Brené Brown, Venus Williams and McConaughey taught Holly about self leadershipBetting on yourself, not letting Plan B become Plan A, and asking people to help you stick the landingIf you’ve been waiting for the “perfect” window to take care of yourself, this episode is your reminder that regulation isn’t a luxury. It’s a skill. And you can start with the smallest reps, the tiniest resets, and the simplest choices that bring you back into your body.And if you’re listening thinking, “I want support, accountability, and tools I can actually use,” Tess and Layne share how you can join The Awake Collective for monthly coaching, community, and practices that help you keep doing the work.Connect with Awake• Join the Awake Collective Community for monthly masterclasseshttps://awake-academy.mykajabi.com/awake-collective-sales• Get Awake’s transformative book: Know Yourself, Grow Yourself• Watch the episodes on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@Awake_Academy_• Follow Layne on Instagram @laynebeachley• Follow Tess on Instagram @tesscbrouwer• Follow Awake Academy on Instagram @awake_academy• Book us for a workshop: wakeup@awakeacademy.com.au• Awake’s TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@awakeacademy_ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if the healthiest version of you is built from the simplest things?Today, Tess and Layne kick off a powerful 7 week challenge built around what they call the Seven Doctors, a set of science backed, everyday habits that can transform your energy, mood, focus and wellbeing without needing an overhaul of your whole life.Layne shares the personal story behind this framework, the tools and rituals she committed to after winning her sixth consecutive world title, and how those tiny, consistent 1 percenters became a literal prescription for vitality.From there, the episode becomes a grounded, practical guide to the habits that most of us know we need, but forget the moment life gets busy. Tess and Layne unpack why health and happiness have been overcomplicated, why the basics still work, and why the secret is not just doing the habit. It’s connecting to how it makes you feel.This is an episode for anyone who feels foggy, flat, burnt out, overwhelmed, or like they’re constantly trying to “fix” themselves with big, exhausting plans. These doctors are simple, accessible, and surprisingly transformative. And the best part? They’re free.In this episode, we talk about:What the Seven Doctors are, and why they’re a simple roadmap back to vitalityWhy wellbeing doesn’t need to be hard to be effectiveThe power of 1 percenters, habit stacking, and building momentum without perfectionDoctor 1: Water, and why dehydration can look like hunger, brain fog and fatigueA simple way to think about hydration and why quality mattersDoctor 2: Movement, and why exercise is one of the most effective antidepressants we haveHow to start when you’re depleted, injured, overwhelmed, or “not in the mood”Why consistency beats intensity, and how to make movement feel like joyDoctor 3: Nutrition, and why protein can be a game changer for energy and strengthThe mindset shift from “skinny” to “strong” and why it changes everythingDoctor 4: Sunshine, and how light resets mood, energy and circadian rhythmThe idea of sunshine breaks and why 90 seconds outside can shift your whole dayDoctor 5: Laughter, and why it’s one of the fastest ways to deactivate stressHow to schedule more joy and train your life to feel lighter againDoctor 6: Active rest, and why your brain can’t be on screens all day and recover at nightHow rest restores creativity, clarity and nervous system regulationDoctor 7: Journaling, and why “dump it out, don’t take it out” creates instant reliefWhy gratitude works when you anchor it in feeling, not just wordsIf you’ve been trying to push through, hustle harder, or hold it all together, this episode will remind you that change doesn’t come from doing more. It comes from returning to what works, and letting the basics rebuild you.And if you’re listening thinking, “I want to do this with support and accountability,” Tess and Layne share how you can join The Awake Collective for the full 7 week Seven Doctors challenge, with community, prompts, coaching and momentum to help you actually stick with it.Connect with Awake• Join the Awake Collective Community for monthly masterclasseshttps://awake-academy.mykajabi.com/awake-collective-sales• Get Awake’s transformative book: Know Yourself, Grow Yourself• Watch the episodes on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@Awake_Academy_• Follow Layne on Instagram @laynebeachley• Follow Tess on Instagram @tesscbrouwer• Follow Awake Academy on Instagram @awake_academy• Book us for a workshop: wakeup@awakeacademy.com.au• Awake’s TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@awakeacademy_ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if the story you’re telling is the thing keeping you stuck?In this special bonus episode of A Wake-Up Call, Tess and Layne revisit a deeply personal moment that reveals how powerful our internal stories can be, and how quickly they can pull us out of alignment with who we really are.Layne shares the story of a competitive surf event that spiralled into weeks of self-judgement and withdrawal. Not because of the moment itself, but because of the meaning attached to it. The fear of being seen. The weight of expectation. The pressure of identity.Together, Tess and Layne explore how stories turn into beliefs, why simply “knowing better” isn’t always enough to move on, and what it really takes to release a narrative that no longer serves you. They unpack intuition, embodiment, and the importance of rewriting stories from truth rather than fear.This episode is a reminder that growth isn’t about forcing positivity. It’s about reconnecting with your deepest truth, letting go of outdated identities, and returning to lightness, flow, and joy.In this episode, we talk about:How stories loop and quietly erode confidenceWhy fear-based narratives grow stronger the more we repeat themThe difference between rationalising and telling the truthHow ignoring intuition disconnects you from trust and easeShame, self-judgement, and the fear of being seenWhy embodiment helps process what words can’tWe also explore:The moment Layne realised she needed to “shed the skin” of expectationHow letting go creates freedom and lightnessWhy life works best when you remember the danceIf you’ve been stuck replaying a moment or carrying the weight of who you think you’re meant to be, this episode will help you soften the story and reconnect with trust, intuition, and flow.And if you’re listening thinking, “I want support to do this work,” we share how you can join The Awake Collective for ongoing coaching, community, and practical tools.Connect with Awake• Join the Awake Collective Community for monthly masterclasseshttps://awake-academy.mykajabi.com/awake-collective-sales• Get Awake’s book: Know Yourself, Grow Yourself• Watch the episodes on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@Awake_Academy_• Follow Layne on Instagram @laynebeachley• Follow Tess on Instagram @tesscbrouwer• Follow Awake Academy on Instagram @awake_academy• Book us for a workshop: wakeup@awakeacademy.com.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if your next breakthrough is on the other side of being seen?Today we’re joined by world renowned performance psychologist Dr Michael Gervais for a conversation that will change how you think about confidence, vulnerability, and what it really means to grow.Tess opens the episode with a raw intention, navigating a heavy season with family and teenagers, and the ache of knowing you have the tools, but still having to let the people you love find their own way. From there, the conversation moves into one of the most freeing concepts you’ll hear all year: the danger line.Michael explains why growth happens at the edge of discomfort, and why for most of us the real danger is not physical. It’s social. It’s the fear of being judged, misunderstood, or exposed. The fear of looking stupid. The fear of caring deeply and coming up short.This episode is packed with lived stories, elite performance psychology, and deeply human truths about identity, ego, and what keeps us playing small. If you’ve ever felt yourself holding back, performing to look okay, or avoiding the very thing you want most, this will land.In this episode, we talk about:What the “danger line” is, and why growth lives right at the edge of itWhy most danger today is social danger, the fear of people’s opinionsThe hidden ways we play the “look okay” game instead of going all inMichael’s pivotal story from his PhD program: when ego hijacks presenceWhat mastery looks like in real time, and how safety creates transformationWhy awareness is the starting point for self masteryHow foundational beliefs shape how you move through the world“The world is dangerous” vs “I feel safe in it” and how both can be trueWhy psychological skills training should be normal, not tabooThe difference between succeeding from fear and succeeding from loveHow stories like “I’m not enough” can drive achievement and also cost youVulnerability as a leadership superpower, especially in high performance spacesRest, recovery, and why burnout culture is not a badgeThe “permission slips” organisations need so people actually change behaviourA practical relationship ritual that builds connection when life gets busyThree first principles for inner mastery: extend your danger line, lean on relationships, and build psychological skillsWe also explore:How to recognise when your identity is running the showWhy self discovery feels hard, especially when you’re already overloadedThe real cost of protecting reputation over being presentHow to build trust, with yourself and with your inner circleWhy mastery is available to everyday humans, not just championsIf you’ve been feeling like you’re capable of more but you keep hesitating, shrinking, or overthinking what people might think, this episode will help you understand why, and give you a framework to start expanding your life again.And if you’re listening thinking, “I want to keep doing this work with support,” we share how you can join The Awake Collective for monthly coaching, accountability, community, and practical tools to help you apply what you’re learning.Connect with Awake• Join the Awake Collective Community for monthly masterclasseshttps://awake-academy.mykajabi.com/awake-collective-sales• Get Awake’s transformative book: Know Yourself, Grow Yourself• Watch the episodes on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@Awake_Academy_• Follow Layne on Instagram @laynebeachley• Follow Tess on Instagram @tesscbrouwer• Follow Awake Academy on Instagram @awake_academy• Book us for a workshop: wakeup@awakeacademy.com.au• Awake’s TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@awakeacademy_ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Today we respond to a powerful listener question that so many people silently struggle with: why does rest feel lazy, selfish, or wrong… even when we know we need it?A working mum of three writes in to share her guilt around slowing down, filling her own cup, and prioritising self-care without feeling like she’s letting everyone else down. Tess and Layne unpack why this guilt is so common, how it’s wired into our nervous system, and why constantly putting ourselves last can quietly lead to burnout, emotional overload, and disconnection.This conversation dives deep into nervous system regulation, boundaries, breathwork, and the small daily practices that help us move out of fight-or-flight and back into presence, clarity and energy.It’s practical, compassionate, and deeply relatable, especially if you’re feeling fried, wired, overwhelmed, or stuck on the hamster wheel.In this episode, we talk about:Why guilt around rest and self-care is so common, especially for womenHow constantly putting others first can actually sabotage your wellbeingThe difference between the sympathetic (stress) and parasympathetic (rest) nervous systemsEarly signs of burnout and nervous system overloadWhy multitasking during rest stops it from being restorativeCreating clear work-life and role-based boundaries to show up more fullySimple daily rituals that genuinely refill your cupWhy silence, stillness and micro-breaks matter more than productivity hacksBreathwork as the fastest way to regulate your nervous systemBox breathing, physiological sighs, and slow exhales explained simplyWhy eating lunch away from your desk is one of the bravest acts of self-careThe role of awe, nature and “touching green” in nervous system recoveryHow moments of awe help you step off the hamster wheelCreating a “love-to-do” list to reconnect with joy and energyWhy rest isn’t selfish, it’s what allows you to show up better for everyoneWe also explore:How to recognise when your nervous system is friedPractical boundaries you can put in place todayWhy scheduling and guarding rest is non-negotiableHow small, consistent resets prevent burnout long-termIf you’ve been feeling tired, overstimulated, guilty for resting, or like you’re constantly pushing through, this episode will help you understand what’s happening in your body and give you real tools to reset.And if you’re listening thinking, “I need support with this,” we share how you can join The Awake Collective for monthly coaching, accountability, community, and practical tools to keep doing the work.Connect with Awake• Join the Awake Collective Community for monthly masterclasseshttps://awake-academy.mykajabi.com/awake-collective-sales• Get Awake’s transformative book: Know Yourself, Grow Yourself• Watch the episodes on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@Awake_Academy_• Follow Layne on Instagram @laynebeachley• Follow Tess on Instagram @tesscbrouwer• Follow Awake Academy on Instagram @awake_academy• Book us for a workshop – wakeup@awakeacademy.com.au• Awake’s TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@awakeacademy_• Sign up for A Wake Up Call for your weekly wake-up Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This one is a must-listen.Today we’re joined by one of the most requested women in the world of female performance and health, Dr Stacy Sims, who is changing the conversation around perimenopause, menopause, women’s training, and energy with science-backed tools that actually work in real life.This episode is deeply personal for Layne, as Stacy’s work helped her feel like herself again, and brought her back to feeling strong, vital, energised and present.We cover the practical tools, the science, and the mindset shifts that help women stop guessing and start understanding what their body actually needs, especially in the perimenopause and menopause years.In this episode, we talk about:Why women’s health has been misunderstood for decades and why data mattersThe biggest myths women have been taught about training and nutritionWhy fasting can be a problem for women (and what it can do to sleep and hormones)How to eat to stabilise energy and reduce the afternoon crashThe truth about “belly fat” and why the obsession with a perfect body is cultural conditioningOzempic/GLP-1s: what we know, what we don’t, and why vanity use is riskyAdaptogens (and what they actually do)Creatine: why it matters for women, brain function, and energySauna vs infrared: what works, how long to stay in, and the mental health benefitsStrength training for women: power, performance, and how to train without “getting bulky”Practical weekly strength structure (and why power is a predictor of healthspan)How partners can support women through menopause: real tools, real conversations, real supportWe also answer listener questions including:How can I support my wife through menopause?How do I prepare for perimenopause without feeling afraid?If you’ve been feeling tired, foggy, flat, not like yourself, or overwhelmed by conflicting advice, this episode will help you feel informed, empowered, and supported.And if you’re listening thinking, “mic drop… I need support with this,” we share how you can join The Awake Collective for monthly coaching, accountability, community, and practical tools to keep doing the work.Connect with Awake• Join the Awake Collective Community for monthly masterclasseshttps://awake-academy.mykajabi.com/awake-collective-sales• Get Awake’s transformative book: Know yourself, grow yourself to live a happier more purposeful lifehttps://www.penguin.com.au/books/awake-academy-9781761345869• Watch the episodes on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@Awake_Academy_• Follow Layne on Instagram @laynebeachley• Follow Tess on Instagram @tesscbrouwer• Follow Awake Academy on Instagram @awake_academy• Book us for a workshop – wakeup@awakeacademy.com.au• Awake’s TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@awakeacademy_• Sign up for a wake up call for a weekly wake up call• Sponsor our podcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As the year comes to a close, we’re slowing things down and doing something a little different.In this episode, Tess and Layne reflect on the year that was, unpack what it really means to reflect rather than rush into resolutions, and explore how intention setting can create more ownership, clarity, and agency in our lives.Layne shares openly about a year defined by growth and frustration, energy and stagnation, and the permission it’s taken to allow contradictions to coexist. Tess reflects on resilience, compassion, and what it means to keep showing up without burning out.Together, we talk about:Why reflection gives us clarity, not avoidanceThe difference between burying emotions and actually processing themHow writing things down creates space and accountabilityAllowing pride and frustration to exist at the same timeCompassion without the need for changeWhy work and rest are not enemiesLetting go of old stories that no longer serve usChoosing a word of the year and what it anchors us toWe also share our words for 2026, how we’re carrying these practices forward, and why intention setting is something best done with people you love.At the end of the episode, we walk you through a reflection and intention-setting framework you can use to create clarity, confidence, and direction for the year ahead.If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone you care about. The best gift you can give a loved one is your self-growth.🎧 Download the Year of Reflection & Intention ToolkitA guided framework to help you reflect, reset, and step into 2026 with purpose.Available now for our New Year campaign.We’ll see you next week and into 2026 as the best version of yourself, no matter where you’re starting from.Happy New Year. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When you stop looking to be saved, life opens up.In this episode, we sit down with Jess the Medium for a conversation that’s part spiritual, part science, and fully grounded in what we’re actually here to do: wake up, trust ourselves, and live with more ease.We talk skeptics, signs, near-death experiences, grief, dementia, forgiveness, and the “mic drop” moments that remind you… you already know more than you think. Plus, Jess shares practical ways to strengthen intuition (without turning your life into a crystal shop scavenger hunt).You’ll learnWhat mediumship is (and isn’t), and why skepticism is allowedWhy grief, trauma, and “rock bottom” can open a new portal of intuitionThe real reason we keep waiting for validation (and how to stop)How to build self-trust with one simple daily check-in practiceWhy “the magic is in the mess” is more than a cute quoteHow to work with signs without spiralling into confirmation biasA powerful reframe: you don’t need saving, you need trusting🎧 Hit play and remember – you can’t give from an empty cup. It’s time to refill yours.Connect with Awake• Join the Awake Collective Community for monthly masterclasseshttps://awake-academy.mykajabi.com/awake-collective-sales• Get Awake’s transformative book: Know yourself, grow yourself to live a happier more purposeful lifehttps://www.penguin.com.au/books/awake-academy-9781761345869• Watch the episodes on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@Awake_Academy• Follow Layne on Instagram @laynebeachley• Follow Tess on Instagram @tesscbrouwer• Follow Awake Academy on Instagram @awake_academy• Book us for a workshop – wakeup@awakeacademy.com.au• Awake’s TikTokhttps://www.tiktok.com/@awakeacademy_• Sign up for a wake up call for a weekly wake up call• Sponsor our podcastwakeup@awakeacademy.com.auDisclaimerThe A Wake Up Call podcast is created for general informational, educational, and inspirational purposes only. The stories, tools, and insights shared are designed to support your wellbeing journey – not to replace professional medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice. In fact, we believe therapy is non-negotiable in life.If you’re experiencing a medical or mental health condition, please seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional. Never ignore or delay seeking professional advice because of something you’ve heard on this podcast.Your wellbeing matters. Take care of yourself, stay curious, and remember the real wake-up call is listening to what your body and mind are trying to tell you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you have ever wondered: 💭 “Why am I so exhausted, even from the things I love?”💭 “How do I stop saying yes to everyone else and start saying yes to myself?”💭 “Is it possible to be ambitious without burning out my body, my relationships and my joy?” This episode is for you. In this honest and energising conversation, Tess and Layne dive into the big B word: burnout. Tess shares what it felt like to be the yes girl in her corporate role at Virgin, glued to her desk, paralysed by decision fatigue and with zero hobbies or joy left in her life. She talks about doing double gym sessions, tracking every mouthful of food, then using alcohol to decompress, and the hallway moment where she realised she was completely burnt out from living for output instead of herself. Layne opens up about the day her husband Kirk asked, “Why do I always get the broken Layne” and how that question became a wake up call. She explains how chasing validation and respect after retirement kept her in a constant state of over giving, and how her early story of being “not enough” as a child drove her to prove herself again and again. Together, Tess and Layne unpack the root causes of burnout, from perfectionism and people pleasing to the 3 C warning signs Layne uses now: comparison, craving and self criticism. They break down the science in simple language, explaining why the brain runs on repetition and fear, why 95 percent of your thoughts are recycled, and how negativity bias quietly keeps you on high alert. Tess and Layne then share the tools that helped them reclaim their energy, including a decision making filter based on love not fear, “no not now” and “no not me” boundaries, and creating a joy list so you know exactly what to do with five spare minutes instead of doom scrolling. They also explore why rest is not a reward but a performance tool, how micro breaks and 90 minute work blocks boost memory and focus, and why your messy first step toward rest will probably look imperfect and still count. You will hear about: The difference between being tired and true burnout, and why your body whispers before it screams How perfectionism and being the yes person quietly drain your energy and self worth The 3 C burnout indicators Layne watches for and how to spot your own early warning signs A simple decision making framework to choose from love instead of fear Practical tools to refill your tank, from joy lists and solo coffee dates to micro breaks and structured rest that actually sticks For more resources related to today's episode, check out our podcast episode page.https://www.awakecollective.online/episode-10 Join the Awake Collective Community for monthly masterclasseshttps://www.awakecollective.online/awake-collective-sales Get Awake's transformative book: Know yourself grow yourself to live a happier more purposeful life. https://www.penguin.com.au/books/awake-academy-9781761345869Follow Layne on Instagram @LaynebeachleyFollow Tess on Instagram @tesscbrouwerFollow Awake Academy on Instagram @awake_academyAwakes TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@awakeacademy_Sponsor our podcast https://www.awakeacademy.com.au/contactBook us for a workshop https://www.awakeacademy.com.au/contact DisclaimerThe A Wake Up Call podcast is created for general informational, educational, and inspirational purposes only. The stories, tools, and insights shared are designed to support your wellbeing journey - not to replace professional medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice. In fact, we believe therapy is non-negotiable in life.If you're experiencing a medical or mental health condition, please seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional. Never ignore or delay seeking professional advice because of something you've heard on this podcast.Your wellbeing matters. Take care of yourself, stay curious, and remember the real wake-up call is listening to what your body and mind are trying to tell you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you have ever wondered: 💭 “Why do I feel like a fraud even when I am achieving so much?” 💭 “How do I quiet the voice that tells me I am not enough?” 💭 “How do I finally own my seat instead of shrinking from it?” – this episode is for you. In this honest and energising conversation, Tess and Layne dive deep into imposter syndrome, tracing the moments in their careers, motherhood and leadership journeys where the inner critic became loud and the fear of being exposed took over. Tess opens up about writing a book with a seven time world champion while secretly wondering if she deserved to be there, returning to study because she thought she needed more certificates to feel legitimate, and the moment imposter syndrome blindsided her in motherhood when she walked ahead of Benji on a path and instantly decided she was a terrible mum. Layne shares the day she became Chair of Surfing Australia, how the words “You are just a token female” echoed in her head, and how she sat in a boardroom feeling utterly unqualified despite being surrounded by people who believed in her. Together they unpack what imposter syndrome really is: the gap between your perceived ability and your true capability, filled with fear, shame and old stories about worthiness. They explain why the brain defaults to threat, how the negativity bias magnifies your mistakes, and why celebrating micro wins is a science backed way to retrain your confidence. Layne shares how she prepared, reached out to mentors and chose to lead with curiosity instead of perfection. Tess talks about learning to say, “I am qualified and I am uncomfortable” and why receiving a single compliment with “Thank you” can be an act of self transformation. You will hear about: The neuroscience behind imposter syndrome and why your brain leans toward fear How shame fuels the belief that you do not deserve success, love or belonging The difference between intuition and fear based narratives Why celebrating the smallest gains builds confidence How a dream team truth check can silence the committee in your head Practical language that helps you stay present instead of spiralling This episode is warm, real and incredibly relatable. It is not about eliminating self doubt. It is about learning how to move with it, grow through it and claim the space you have already earned. 🎧 Hit play to remember that you are capable, you are qualified and you deserve to sit in the seat your life has prepared you for. https://www.sharethedignity.org.au/ Join the Awake Collective Community for monthly masterclasses https://www.awakecollective.online/awake-collective-sales Get Awake's transformative book: Know yourself grow yourself to live a happier more purposeful life. https://www.penguin.com.au/books/awake-academy-9781761345869 Follow Layne on Instagram @Laynebeachley Follow Tess on Instagram @tesscbrouwer Follow Awake Academy on Instagram @awake_academy Awakes TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@awakeacademy_ Sponsor our podcast https://www.awakeacademy.com.au/contact Book us for a workshop https://www.awakeacademy.com.au/contact Disclaimer The A Wake Up Call podcast is created for general informational, educational, and inspirational purposes only. The stories, tools, and insights shared are designed to support your wellbeing journey - not to replace professional medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice. In fact, we believe therapy is non-negotiable in life. If you're experiencing a medical or mental health condition, please seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional. Never ignore or delay seeking professional advice because of something you've heard on this podcast. Your wellbeing matters. Take care of yourself, stay curious, and remember the real wake-up call is listening to what your body and mind are trying to tell you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you have ever wondered: 💭 "What does it feel like to be truly seen in a relationship?"💭 "How do you sit with someone you love when they are in deep pain?"💭 "How do you stay connected when your instinct is to fix or run?" – this episode is for you. In this intimate conversation, Layne turns the spotlight onto Tess and her husband Chris, tracing their love story from a rehab reunion in a pub on AFL Grand Final day to a blended family, a baby, and a life built on shared growth. Tess shares what it was like to meet Chris after losing everything to injury and trauma, standing in a neck brace, caring for the "quad squad," and hearing him say, "Who are you? You are like sunshine." Chris talks about that first hug that felt like "coming home," the long FaceTime calls during lockdown, and the moment he asked Tess to tell him her accident and PTSD story from start to finish so he could "know how to hold" her. The next morning, he sent flowers with three simple words: "Holding space for you." Together they unpack what it actually means to hold space in real life: the breath before reacting, choosing not to fix, and learning to say, "I do not know what to say right now, but I am here." Chris opens up about his early shutdown response to female emotion, how his teenage experiences with his mum shaped that, and how he now chooses a "posture of a learner" instead of control. Tess shares how it feels to be on the receiving end of that presence, and why her single word for Chris is "safety." You will hear about: The difference between being a solution and being a shoulder How they stay out of the drama triangle and step back into connection The marriage vow that changed everything: always doing their own inner work Why it is "safe to be seen" and how that belief changed Tess's life This episode is tender, real and quietly powerful. It is not about perfect communication. It is about two humans doing the work to keep choosing each other, even when it is hard. 🎧 Hit play to remember what love can look like when someone is willing to sit in the discomfort and hold space for all of you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've ever looked in the mirror and thought, 💭 “I'll love myself when I lose the weight.”💭 “Why can't I just feel comfortable in my own skin?”💭 “Everyone else seems confident — what's wrong with me?” —this one's for you. In this episode of A Wake Up Call, Layne and Tess dive into one of the most personal and powerful topics yet: body image, self-care, and learning to love yourself — not when you're “better,” but as you are. Layne opens up about what it was like to have her body as her career, her tool, and her identity — and the fifty-year journey it took to look in the mirror and genuinely love what she saw. Tess shares how she spent decades disconnected from her body, constantly at war with food, weight, and self-worth, and the moment she finally began to come home to herself. Together they explore: Why body image affects nearly everyone, regardless of age or gender The science behind why how we feel in our skin shapes our mental health and confidence The difference between self-love and self-criticism — and how to shift from one to the other How therapy, awareness, and daily micro-habits can help quiet the inner critic The simple question Tess asks herself each day: “If I loved my body, what would I do?” Layne's practical advice on creating an environment that supports healing, not comparison You'll also hear from listeners, including one raw, heartfelt email from a woman feeling “asleep with her eyes open,” reminding us why these conversations matter so deeply. This episode isn't about perfection — it's about peace. It's a wake-up call to treat your body as the ally it's always been. 🎧 Hit play to remember what it feels like to belong in your own skin again. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This conversation sits where many of us are living right now: caring for kids and partners while also preparing to say goodbye to the people who raised us. Tess and Layne open with a real life audit, naming the season they are in as the sandwich generation. They invite guest Mitch Wallis (Heart On My Sleeve – https://www.mitchwallis.com) to help untangle grief with honesty and practical tools. You will hear why ambiguity makes grief so hard, how to “undensify” big feelings through presence, and why the most healing question is often the simplest: “What are you going to miss about your dad the most?” Together they model emotional regulation, co-regulation, and the courage to feel it to heal it, then close with a clear toolkit: “Stop fixing. Start listening.” What you will learn: How to run a quick life audit when you feel stretched on all sides Why uncertainty supercharges grief and how to find steadiness in it Simple body anchors from Mitch's practice: “light, bright, tight, might” A supportive question that opens connection: “What are you going to miss about them the most?” How to balance pre-grieving with presence, so you do not wish away the time you still have Co-regulation basics for friends and leaders who want to help without rescuing Three tools to use today: feel it to heal it, breathing and grounding, stop fixing. start listening. Connect with Awake Join the Awake Collective Community for monthly masterclasses https://awake-academy.mykajabi.com/awake-collective-sales Get Awake's transformative book: Know yourself grow yourself to live a happier more purposeful life  https://www.penguin.com.au/books/awake-academy-9781761345869 Watch the episodes on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@Awake_Academy Follow Layne on Instagram @Laynebeachley Follow Tess on Instagram @tesscbrouwer Follow Awake Academy on Instagram @awake_academy Book us for a workshop – wakeup@awakeacademy.com.au Awakes TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@awakeacademy_ Sign up for a wake up call for a weekly wake up call Sponsor our podcast wakeup@awakeacademy.com.au Disclaimer The A Wake Up Call podcast is created for general informational, educational, and inspirational purposes only. The stories, tools, and insights shared are designed to support your wellbeing journey - not to replace professional medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice. In fact, we believe therapy is non-negotiable in life. If you're experiencing a medical or mental health condition, please seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional. Never ignore or delay seeking professional advice because of something you've heard on this podcast. Your wellbeing matters. Take care of yourself, stay curious, and remember the real wake-up call is listening to what your body and mind are trying to tell you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does well-being actually look like when you're exhausted, parenting, flying, speaking, working… and still trying to be a decent human? This episode is a behind-the-scenes look at how Layne and Tess really weave habits, supplements, sleep, and rituals into messy, modern life – without pretending it's perfect. From Layne sprinting on the sand, flying to a keynote half-asleep, smashing it on stage and then nearly hurling through turbulence… to Tess parenting through a hangover after Kirk's birthday, they unpack the routines that hold them – and the ones that fell apart and had to be rebuilt. You'll hear the story of Layne's “first pancake” keynote that ended in a formal complaint, and how that wake-up call turned her into the speaker she is today. They dive into morning rituals (from cuddles and magnesium water to “show me how good it can get today, universe”), the power of a 10-minute lunchtime reset with bare feet in the grass, and why nighttime routines quietly run the whole show. There's honest chat about alcohol, falling off the wagon, bone broth, matcha, and the truth that sometimes the bravest move is just leaving your desk to eat lunch outside. This episode isn't medical advice – it's Layne and Tess sharing what's actually working, what isn't, and how to keep coming back to habits that honour your nervous system, your energy, and your real life. 🎧 Hit play and remember — you can't give from an empty cup. It's time to refill yours. Connect with Awake Join the Awake Collective Community for monthly masterclasses https://awake-academy.mykajabi.com/awake-collective-sales Get Awake's transformative book: Know yourself grow yourself to live a happier more purposeful life  https://www.penguin.com.au/books/awake-academy-9781761345869 Watch the episodes on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@Awake_Academy Follow Layne on Instagram @Laynebeachley Follow Tess on Instagram @tesscbrouwer Follow Awake Academy on Instagram @awake_academy Book us for a workshop – wakeup@awakeacademy.com.au Awakes TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@awakeacademy_ Sign up for a wake up call for a weekly wake up call Sponsor our podcast wakeup@awakeacademy.com.au Disclaimer The A Wake Up Call podcast is created for general informational, educational, and inspirational purposes only. The stories, tools, and insights shared are designed to support your wellbeing journey - not to replace professional medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice. In fact, we believe therapy is non-negotiable in life. If you're experiencing a medical or mental health condition, please seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional. Never ignore or delay seeking professional advice because of something you've heard on this podcast. Your wellbeing matters. Take care of yourself, stay curious, and remember the real wake-up call is listening to what your body and mind are trying to tell you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

THE SCIENCE OF HAPPINESS – with Sue Langleyhttps://langleygroup.com.au/ If you've ever wondered, “Why can't I stay happy even when things are good?” “Is there actually science behind wellbeing?” “Can I really rewire my brain to feel better?” —this episode is for you. In today's episode of A Wake Up Call, Layne and Tess sit down with Sue Langley — global leader in positive psychology and neuroscience, founder of the Langley Group, and the woman who helped them ground their book Awake: Own Your Truth in science. Sue's story is extraordinary: from truck driver to one of the world's most respected experts in human flourishing. Her work translates complex brain science into practical, real-world tools that anyone can use to boost happiness, resilience, and purpose. In this powerful and joy-filled conversation, you'll learn: What positive psychology really is (and what it's not) The brain-based reason gratitude, mindfulness, and focus actually work How to turn trauma into growth and rewire your mindset for worthiness The difference between good stress and bad stress — and how to use both A 30-second brain hack you can try right now to boost your mood How AI could help scale wellbeing and make mental fitness accessible to everyone Sue brings both warmth and wisdom, with practical takeaways you can use today to feel more alive, balanced, and in control of your happiness. Hit play and discover how small shifts in focus, belief, and self-awareness can rewire your brain for wellbeing. Connect with Awake Join the Awake Collective Community for monthly masterclasses https://awake-academy.mykajabi.com/awake-collective-sales Get Awake's transformative book: Know yourself grow yourself to live a happier more purposeful life  https://www.penguin.com.au/books/awake-academy-9781761345869 Watch the episodes on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@Awake_Academy Follow Layne on Instagram @Laynebeachley Follow Tess on Instagram @tesscbrouwer Follow Awake Academy on Instagram @awake_academy Book us for a workshop – wakeup@awakeacademy.com.au Awakes TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@awakeacademy_ Sign up for a wake up call for a weekly wake up call Sponsor our podcast wakeup@awakeacademy.com.au Disclaimer The A Wake Up Call podcast is created for general informational, educational, and inspirational purposes only. The stories, tools, and insights shared are designed to support your wellbeing journey - not to replace professional medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice. In fact, we believe therapy is non-negotiable in life. If you're experiencing a medical or mental health condition, please seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional. Never ignore or delay seeking professional advice because of something you've heard on this podcast. Your wellbeing matters. Take care of yourself, stay curious, and remember the real wake-up call is listening to what your body and mind are trying to tell you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've ever thought,  “Love shouldn't be this hard.”  “We're so different — can this really work?” “How do you stay connected when life gets loud?” This episode is for you. In this heartfelt, laughter-filled conversation, Tess sits down with Layne Beachley and her husband, INXS legend Kirk Pengilly, to unpack the real story behind their 23-year relationship and 15 years of marriage. They talk about the highs, the heartbreaks, and the hilarious moments that shaped their partnership — from living worlds apart in the early years to navigating fame, recovery, and the daily work of staying in love. You'll learn: How two complete opposites learned to grow with each other, not just beside each other The moment Kirk said, “Why do I always get the broken version?” — and how it changed everything The truth about identity, healing, and showing up in a relationship as your whole self How humour, self-awareness, and radical honesty can keep love alive for the long haul The truth bombs land hard and the love runs deep. Hit play and wake up to love, laughter, and a few home truths that might just change how you see your own relationship. For more resources related to today's episode, check out our podcast episode page:www.awakecollective.online/episode-3 Connect with Awake Join the Awake Collective Community for monthly masterclasses  Get Awake's transformative book: Know yourself grow yourself to live a happier more purposeful life Watch the episodes on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@Awake_Academy Follow Layne on Instagram @Laynebeachley Follow Tess on Instagram @tesscbrouwer Follow Awake Academy on Instagram @awake_academy Book us for a workshop – wakeup@awakeacademy.com.au Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've ever said, “I'm fine,” when you were anything but… this one's for you. In this raw, honest conversation, Layne and Tess unpack the tiny, two-word lie that so many of us use to avoid what we're really feeling. Because the truth is, every time you say “I'm fine” when you're not, you push your real self a little further away. You'll learn: How to feel it to heal it Why emotional honesty is the ultimate power move How unprocessed emotions get stored in the body One simple way to start feeling your emotions safely without getting stuck in them This episode is your permission slip to stop pretending, start feeling, and finally owning your truth. For more resources related to today's episode, check out our podcast episode page:www.awakecollective.online/episode-2 Connect with Awake Join the Awake Collective Community for monthly masterclasses  Get Awake's transformative book: Know yourself grow yourself to live a happier more purposeful life Watch the episodes on YouTube: www.youtube.com/@Awake_Academy Follow Layne on Instagram @Laynebeachley Follow Tess on Instagram @tesscbrouwer Follow Awake Academy on Instagram @awake_academy Book us for a workshop – wakeup@awakeacademy.com.au Awakes TikTok www.tiktok.com/@awakeacademy_ Sign up for a wake up call for a weekly wake up call Sponsor our podcast wakeup@awakeacademy.com.au Disclaimer The A Wake Up Call podcast is created for general informational, educational, and inspirational purposes only. The stories, tools, and insights shared are designed to support your wellbeing journey - not to replace professional medical, psychological, or therapeutic advice. In fact, we believe therapy is non-negotiable in life. If you're experiencing a medical or mental health condition, please seek guidance from a qualified healthcare professional. Never ignore or delay seeking professional advice because of something you've heard on this podcast. Your wellbeing matters. Take care of yourself, stay curious, and remember the real wake-up call is listening to what your body and mind are trying to tell you.  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.