From Dropout to DOAC: Steven Bartlett's Secrets to Success | A Bit of Optimism

From a university dropout to a globally recognized entrepreneur, Steven Bartlett has paved his path with determination and an unrivaled attention to detail. In this special conversation for 'A Bit of Optimism', we uncover the man behind 'The Diary of a CEO' and dive deep into Steven's philosophies that have guided his monumental rise.
Ahead of the release of his highly anticipated book, Steven shared pearls of wisdom on knowing when to persevere and when to quit. One of the leading minds of this generation, he offers not just a bit-but a wealth of optimism.
For more insights from Steven, watch @TheDiaryOfACEO and check out his new book available now: smarturl.it/DOACbook.
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Simon is an unshakable optimist. He believes in a bright future and our ability to build it together.
Described as “a visionary thinker with a rare intellect,” Simon has devoted his professional life to help advance a vision of the world that does not yet exist; a world in which the vast majority of people wake up every single morning inspired, feel safe wherever they are and end the day fulfilled by the work that they do.
Simon is the author of multiple best-selling books including Start With Why, Leaders Eat Last, Together is Better, and The Infinite Game.
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Website: simonsinek.com/
Live Online Classes: simonsinek.com/classes/
Podcast: apple.co/simonsinek
Instagram: / simonsinek
Linkedin: / simonsinek
Twitter: / simonsinek
Facebook: / simonsinek
Simon’s books:
The Infinite Game: simonsinek.com/books/the-infi...
Start With Why: simonsinek.com/books/start-wi...
Find Your Why: simonsinek.com/books/find-you...
Leaders Eat Last: simonsinek.com/books/leaders-...
Together is Better: simonsinek.com/books/together...
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#SimonSinek

[@TheDiaryOfACEO]

Thank you simon ! can't wait to see you soon

[@BarryRGreene]

@thediaryofACEO .... When you get a chance, seek out a copy of "Pushing Up People: The Secret Behind One of the Most Exciting Success Stories in American Business" by AL Williams. It is another confirmation that the path your sharing succeeds.

[@amynotmi_mi]

What Simon is trying to say is. I think Steven , you can spend a little more time to understand yourself, so you can more easily express yourself to others, so you don't need to hold all the pressure in your own body. Steven because young, may feel it's a waste of time to process and explain. Which it is right now, BUT. With more time and age and practice, Steven will eventually become more easily expressful, to convert employees - allowing them to understand and move parallel to Steven. (Important for relationships too - family - friends -partner etc) Being more open, and more pro at expressing ones self, leads to a strong human and human connection, more trust and less words, more connection. Also a note to Steven, fast speech is correlated with high blood pressure. Happens to all of us at a young age. But hey, it's driving you in the right direction, so shoot for the moon!

[@khanyisagura4377]

Dude you're so smart. Your words speak to my soul ❤

[@blessingumezulike6325]

@thediaryofACEO... Thank you very much for coming and pouring out your knowledge to our hearts.

[@wendyntswane4719]

Can you believe I listen to your podcast as a non subscriber and I'm part the 60% you always mention but today it took me listening to you on the receiving end of questions to make me a subscriber....wild... It's like I needed to hear your story. There's so much I want to say but the biggest thing is I see you and I resonate with you. Thank you

[@miguelmontano4740]

I want to thank you both for allowing us to witness a beautiful and honest conversation between two humans doing the hard work that most humans are not willing to endure. Send you guys love and gratitude 🙏

[@armandofigueroa3209]

111

[@vza123]

Nothing greater than Simon and Steven together. Absolute greatness!!! ❤

[@strandedinparadise8202]

Simon looks like a proud father with Steven. I know they're closer in age than that but for Simon to start out as a lone voice dreaming up a new way of doing business and now be with this brilliant young CEO who's a living embodiment of everything he dreamed about - it doesn't get any better than that! From the way Simon talks about the toll his work has taken on his relationships I assume he doesn't have kids of his own, which means his work will be his legacy - and he's getting to see that legacy in action - something every father dreams of. There's a bit at 59:43 where Simon seems so inspired by Steven's description of how he runs his company that he embarks on a mind blowing monologue that sums everything up so beautifully. A lot of it is stuff he's probably said many time over but it feels like he's never put the words together quite so well before. Steven's experience as an interviewer meant he knew not to interrupt and I honestly felt like I was witnessing the birth of a brilliant new idea, or a new way of looking at the world. And that my friends is why we love these long form podcasts!

[@Mediiiiiiiiii]

“ the annoying thing is I can talk to you forever” 😂😂😂😂 Simon is amazing love how he approaches everything 👌

[@RmaniTvrs]

That feeling when you know it’s gonna be great even before watching the video

[@glenda7921]

I wish the camera angles were such that they were both in frame. It feels disconnected. And Simon looks looks uncomfortable in his chair. A shame. It was distracting for me.

[@christian_a_uk]

Simon says they could keep talking for hours, I could keep listening for hours. So much value from listening to these two incredible human beings sharing such perspective. Thank you

[@foramchandarana6478]

Simon sneakingly adds those WHY discovery questions - happy childhood memory and project that you loved - if all other things were like it- you would be the happiest person alive. Simon asks them to most guests

[@avaleen]

This conversation is SO SO SO RICH. The honesty, the vulnerability, the depth, the wisdom and perspective. Brilliant, just brilliant. Many thanks for sharing this conversation Simon!

[@hindiamohammed3672]

This wasn’t interview rather music, music so beautiful it just flows effortlessly. How you both interact,the honesty, the articulation of thoughts I will be listening to this just over and over again. TWO GREAT MEN

[@NoorFatima-ec3vo]

The backdrop is quite annoying; making me quite dizzy.

[@1PeakMindset]

Agreed!!! I found it rather distracting.

[@katietaylor3525]

😂

[@karlakelly8810]

This was incredibly illuminating. Steven was a man on fire! It’ll be interesting for him (Steven) to replay this 5-10 years from now and witness the moments where he was playing defense against Simon. (Checkout Simon’s grin-both proud and knowing as if to say “keep going man because what you’ve just said missed the mark but you’ll get there Young Grasshopper). Steven’s seeming rebuttal, is racing to get Simon’s approval. You can feel the mutual respect and admiration of these two. Steven is ahead of the game but funnily enough he’s still playing the “driven out of fear” game vs the “drive for the love of it” game which is the narrative Simon embraces. It’s fascinating and would pay to hear them speak, either separately or together. Best episode yet!

[@kojo_agyei]

The look on Simon’s face is just golden. Thank you for sharing this valuable discourse with us 😊

[@anaolivenca7165]

What a profound, enlighten, mature, balanced, compelling and fun conversation. The language of love I felt between you guys and cross topics was magical. I was hooked! Thank you Simon. I follow Your work for 10 years and you have grown so much and made me grow too every day. I love you. I've discovered Steven podcast last year and I've never been able to leave him since. To see your vision of the world, Simon, put to fruition through Steven's businesses is beautiful. Thank you, thank you, thank you. I've learned so much in this podcast. Please continue. Much love.

[@lynnrondina4254]

"If you've worked with me, you know that there's a standard." Struck a chord. It resonates with me deeply and when I interview job applicants I say the same, that we have a high standard to set expectation upfront. It's challenging holding oneself to a high standard and refusing to accept anything less but you are what you are, you pay attention to detail and that makes you so amazing and so successful. Incredibly substantive interview.

[@Desianimevibes1]

🎯 Key Takeaways for quick navigation: 00:00 🤔 Steven Bartlett shares insights on interviewing, authenticity, and personal growth. 03:36 🌱 Real ambition is driven by intrinsic passion and interests, not external validation or rewards. 16:11 😔 Steven Bartlett acknowledges struggle with self-worth tied to metrics and standards, highlighting the need for a healthier perspective. 19:12 🎙️ The "Diary of a CEO" podcast is a project Steven Bartlett deeply loves, aligning with his Eureka guy-a perfect blend of passion, proficiency, income, and enjoyment. 32:33 🎤 Importance of setting high standards and focusing on details for a better outcome. 35:35 🌟 Sharing specific stories helps convey the purpose and significance of high standards to the team, fostering support and motivation. 38:47 🏗️ Communicating the reasons behind high standards helps team members take pride in striving for excellence. 39:29 🚀 Steven Bartlett emphasizes the power of a shared purpose and impact in maintaining a cohesive team. 41:08 💡 Clear communication and setting accurate expectations are essential in creating a healthy work environment. 42:57 📈 Progress and a sense of forward motion are powerful motivators for individuals in their work and personal lives. 45:21 👥 Empathy, autonomy, challenge, and a sense of purpose are key factors in retaining a satisfied and motivated team. 47:25 💥 High standards and a strong culture, aligned with clear values, are crucial for long-term business success and employee satisfaction. 52:33 🔄 Constant experimentation, empowered by a culture of fast failure, is the secret to innovation and success in a rapidly changing world. 57:32 🌟 Steven Bartlett's pursuit of constant improvement is fueled by the desire to experience moments of effortless joy and magic, akin to cherished family memories. 58:56 🌟 Building a company with a focus on sharing success with the team is a unique and impactful approach. 59:23 🌞 The "pursuit of sunshine" concept emphasizes spreading positivity and achieving happiness in business and life. 59:49 💡 Human beings are driven by dopamine, a tangible reward, but also need serotonin and oxytocin for deeper feelings of joy and love. 01:00:30 🧠 The challenge of being human in the modern world involves maintaining a balance in a rapidly evolving environment not designed for our ancient bodies and systems. 01:02:07 🌍 The future of CEOs should prioritize kindness, generosity, and mental fitness, creating a tribal leadership approach for business success. 01:06:19 ⚖️ It's crucial to evaluate the cost and benefits of decisions, weighing the hardship versus the misery or "sucking" factor in the decision-making process. 01:13:32 ❓ Knowing when to quit involves a thoughtful evaluation of the mission's worth and understanding the distinction between hardship and misery. Made with HARPA AI

[@dk1828]

Around 33 minutes when Steven is talking about his work ethic, I have a lot more respect for a leader who is in the trenches working his butt off to make sure the “client” has the best experience rather than someone who walks off and says “get it done” …especially when you have never worked with a particular company before and may require several attempts to make it just right…. This also sets a standard for the employees under him and that bare minimum will not suffice in this organization.

[@michelleaustin7724]

I agree... these two people are so impressive and I was so looking forward to the two of them together! I felt Simon was using the interview to critique Steven's leadership approach about the 1%, and kept mentioning Steven's age, and he kept pursuing it and interrupting Steven to share his own stories....I felt uncomfortable for Steven and concerned for Simon. Impressively, Steven held his position and explained his rationale clearly with great calm.

[@Hearken_eQuip]

29:30 mins amazing observation, A team of professionals know exactly what their doing, when you micro manage people they all of a sudden became vendors and start being order takers.

[@behthiansu]

Today Steven appears in both Ali and Simon's channel! So good!

[@cyrillaanselm5336]

It speaks volumes to watch Simon engage Steven, a younger version of himself and admire Steven's authenticity.That's leadership par excellence.

[@NeoM018]

I am big fan of these two but something hit me towards the end, Simon is getting revived by talking to Steven and you see it unfolding and the emotion on Steven's face holding back the tears is just amazing. Brilliant and great conversation gentlemen. 👌🏾🙏🏾♥️🇿🇦

[@abdl4966]

That’s crazy “Decision with no decision” “Indecision” ❤ I always beat myself to always have a decision but the honesty and faith is what usually make those decisions.

[@arlinegeorge6967]

The world is still filled with select individuals who are making our world better and beautiful. Praying for all to imbibe the beautiful qualities that is seen in both these humans. Love and peace to all.

[@billhiggins-ha4all795]

I love when Simon brings up intent based leadership... the work of David Marquet... He created so many Commanding Officers from his crew .

[@stevenye4296]

This will be world changing. Trust.

[@Chwuik2]

Two of my all times favourite people having this deep and friendly conversation, makes me feel so happy. I truly hope one day to shake hands with you and personally say thank you. Thank you for the reference, teaching, silent mentoring, guidance and inspiration.

[@magnificalux]

Remarkable! Absolutely loved this whole conversation with Simon and Steven! 👏👏👏 Loved Simon's questions and loved Steven's answers! So many mindblowing moments and incredible perspectives given in this conversation between you two - not to mention the respect and chemistry between you both! Wished it was longer! Go on for 3 hours for all I care! This convo needs to go on forever!

[@barbaralynch5119]

This has really hit home for me, particularly the piece about knowing when to quit! I really needed to hear this, I’ve been working really hard on our Culture, supporting staff, understanding what it is they want to get out of the Company, helping them to understand what they contribute and trying to motivate them daily! I’m a senior administrator I’ve watched good people be unappreciated, bullied and not supported. It’s really hard when Team Leaders and Managers just care about their ego’s and make decisions based on how it reflects on them, not on what is good for the business or staff!

[@melissashipman8666]

I'm not sure if anything else could be greater than these two inspiring leaders working together. Such an amazing conversation and I love the friendship that is also clearly there. ❤️❤️

[@wakinginfinity]

This culture is leadership-obsessed. We need to learn how to lead ourselves first, before worrying about leading others. And we need to be careful about who we follow. I believe in strengthening my intuition and becoming self-led.

[@scotttaylor6420]

I struggle with staying engaged for long periods of time, especially this amount of time but similarly to what others here have said I COULD NOT turn this off from the moment I started you both had me hooked. Simon, Steven thank you both so much for having the most profound impact on my life, all of your conversations have stayed with me but this in my opinion is your best. I would love the opportunity to see you both live somewhere in Australia if you both ever came back. To your continued impact on people’s lives.

[@flordeloto78]

Two of my favourite people together, what a delight! Such a helpful, productive and valueable conversation! Thanks to you both and congratulations, your work is extraordinary! ❤

[@jillianowen1668]

One of the most profound, honest, inspiring, genuine and honest conversations I have listened to and watched. I really needed to hear this today. Thank you to you both for all the work that you do and all the sacrifices you choose to make to be the change that this world, truly needs. ❤❤❤

[@mariaagamboabucarito1954]

So much clarity and insight moments comes to me looking at two persons having a kind of living room conversation which feel so comfy to watch. From the smooth but elevated language (being Hispanic these is the kind I want to absorb) to the abundant and ease knowledge to relate and learn from. Always a pleasure to listen to both of you.

[@cathyweiss5347]

Yes Simon it's the glimmers I fight for when I paint endangered animals. Thats my why. I teared up when you helped Steven see the garden with his brother is a target he has aimed for his entire life. Brilliant. Both of you are exceptional. Thank you for being so generous.

[@bri.bri19-96]

I love the relationship and rapport that youve built between one another. You can even see the twinkle in Simons eyes as Steve is explaining his why behind certain things …..the twinkle reminds me of a proud mentor/father who is just sitting listening and taking in their mentee/child’s new found greatness …..it’s a joy to see. Awesome conversation between two great minds/leaders . I look up to both of you so much. Worked 16hr tonight and I have about 6min until I clock out of work ,all day I have been watching pausing rewinding and jotting down notes from this interview. Love all of your books and videos both of you ❤

[@hedgeymcgee3079]

Absolutely mind blowing to hear the two of you who I regard as at the top of the pyramid of thought provoking content. Such inspiration!

[@jeffnarweh]

Two of the wisest minds on this earth. You guys are truly inspiring 🙏🏾📝

[@trishwagner2771]

As a Psych high school teacher and now I’m adding Leadership 12 to my courses- I’m constantly adding episodes from your conversations with each other to my course syllabus! They are so relevant , insightful and enormously engaging! Thank you!

[@if7363]

38:59 that's so good about micromanaging and trusting professionals to do their work which rather builds their inner power and being respectful towards them.

[@ijaz8888]

Bucket of gold from these 2 gentlemen I respect very much - A lot of wisdom shared by both with their own experiences in the world of business

[@sonya0811]

I am the biggest Steve Bartlett fan ..he’s wise beyond his years.. I do believe he was missing Simons point about about “sweating the small stuff.” Empowering and trusting others will bring lasting loyalty and job satisfaction .

[@Pilotmoradi]

This is truly the best KZbin video I have seen and I wish more young people watch this and properly listen to what the two are teaching us. A million times thank you

[@CED.Dweller]

I just watched two gentlemen in conversation, and both men heard one another. That means a great deal.

[@mentormysuccess]

One of my favorite conversations

[@AmeLia-ch5si]

Wow, it's very comforting to see two of my fave public figures (people) sitting here chatting 💗👏

[@micahal]

You guys are my favorite and you should write a book together. I'm CEO of small company and hoping one day I will have your wisdom. Thank you so much.

[@chalobuckman8823]

Listened to both of you and I have learned so much as I am being prepared to lead an organization and I found my why and will use what you both offered. So I thank you both from the bottom of my heart.

[@ayrinsangels]

What a profound conversation! I couldn’t miss a second, pausing to think about what was just said. Amazing!

[@Luvaido]

One of the best if not thee best interview I've ever watched... It's a conversation rather than an interview... Thank you guys... Much appreciated ❤❤❤

[@luissuarez5845]

Thank you Simon. This is why I signed up to this channel. Thank you and appreciation to your guest 🙌🏽

[@kgomotsomabe]

Only 6mins in but already blown away. 2 of my favourites having such a deep meaningful conversation 👌🏽♥️. Thank you.

[@jorampodcast]

I love learning success principles and way of living from great people. To help myself remember the lessons, I document every lesson, nugget of wisdom I gather in video form as a way to give myself advice from every great lesson out there.

[@bobwheeler8101]

You two are the most inspiring people and watching you together is the best. Both keep doing what you do. ❤

[@kathyhou4648]

I love all the content the two of you create… you have so much perspective… so consistent and small things that lead to big things.. slowly but surely…. Thank you for this… it’s very very powerful.

[@chattychats5972]

Thank for this episode Simon! Steven, thank you for leading and seeing people the way you do. You are certainly modelling the new era of how business ought to be done in our world today!

[@Greenandgold888]

This is amazing! I love the podcast "diary of a ceo" 🎉❤ good job!

[@barbc7526]

I loved this conversation. It has helped me a lot. Thank you ❤

[@ratherbewrenching6114]

I love listening to conversations between the two of you. Please have more!

[@abidjafri1]

Two of my favourite people! Awesome episode and hopefully you can do a few more together!

[@harrietdizanieescoza1232]

This is an absolute gem! Thank you so much for the wisdom! 🌻

[@hlophehokhomo1637]

One of my two favorite speakers and podcasters ❤

[@jtmusic830]

Which one - Steven or Simon?

[@saraendestad4945]

oh, the thing on fast small fails was so insightful - definitely integrating that from now. Loved this one!

[@kelvinbobmanuel]

This 2-hour podcast is so freaking good. My goodness. The longest podcast I've ever watched and not felt it was long

[@ruslankasimbekov1268]

Hi Simon! Background have my eyes suffer watching, ended up just listening to it. Amazing conversation

[@dj_lian]

I love this whole conversation. I believe young generations is change the way things was done in past and I’m proud of this young fellow is conducting himself🙏🏽

[@luisafranco4395]

Pursuit of sunshine and sharing it, ultimate kindness 🙂 It's true, Simon, working for people who genuinely care about you is rare but incredibly important. You both are so generous to allow us to listen and learn. And totally agree on quitting...

[@AnneRosette]

Love and listen to both of them all the time. Learned so much from the work they do!! Thank you for such an open conversation between 2 good humans

[@julieliliosa4259]

❤❤❤ You are both my favourites who always give me insights & share the wisdom of life not only for me but for millions of others around the world. I have all the books from Simon and can’t wait to have The Daily of CEO book come to Indonesia 😊

[@sophiaburrell5142]

Love you both. The questions and the answers are really deep.

[@xandra971]

It was magical! You are two men I appreciate and who guide me on my journey. Thank you for being you 🙏🏽

[@crossfitreikan3413]

This was just a great moment of leadership, humanity and powerful knowledge

[@claireconde9161]

Amazing how honest he distinguishes between insecurities and ambition.. opens my mind great podcast!! love this

[@carascreatives]

Absolutely LOVED this entire conversation!

[@mariannewolf57]

That was something else! Absolutely loved the entire conversation!

[@sindymadida]

Amazing conversation! Simon’s facial expression was so beautiful. Thanks Steven for sharing your journey with us

[@Bart79M]

Thank so much for this podcast. It gave me so much to think about. It doesn't give me all the answers I need but it helped me to ask myself the right questions

[@planeguy95]

Anyone else get really emotional watching this? There was something about this video, I could feel the emotions during this conversation

[@dagfrodesolberg9962]

Thank you. This conversation is bringing me serenity in work matters. Key points I'm taking with me today are: - Work culture is key. - Having and upholding high standards are important for the health of the company, financially and culturally as well as for one's own mental health. - And lack of clarity is damaging to any workplace.

[@arturomarin8549]

Beautiful conversation! Simon you really know how to bring it together!

[@lucretiasulimay1968]

I quit a job because I was being disrespected by the owners even though I had 30 years in the restaurant industry and they had none . Went one on to open my own restaurant recently sold it to my chef n it is such an integrated part of the neighborhood he kept it the same name!!

[@TheWisdomCoachsClips]

This was such a great interview on so many levels!!! The best interviewers, for me, are those where the interviewer does not appear aware or conscious of the fans, followers, or viewers. They’re not asking questions to gain support or to solve problems for the fanbase, so they can grow their bottom line, clicks, views, shares, comments or viewership. What makes this interview so powerful, is Simon is the older wise man, who appears to be SHOCKED, by how much young Steven knows, how WISE he is, for such a young age; and his ability to communicate clearly. This makes the experience for me, the viewer, 1000 times better than many of the interviews or podcast found online. Thank you Steven for your transparency and vulnerability in interviews. It allows your fans and followers to learn who you are; and if they are perceptive enough, they can gain insight that can transform areas of their life. Thank you Simon for your humility and willingness to ask the BEST questions. So that your audience can get the most out of this interaction. NOTE: I am use to Siimon being interviewed, or teaching. This is the first content of yours sir, where I see you interviewing someone else. Refreshing and very helpful. Thank you . Thank you both! This part 28:47 and question was priceless. You COURAGE and TACK in how you asked and phrased the SWEAT THE SMALL STUFF question and compare your approach and Steve’s to small stuff, was insightful.

[@jeno5176]

Thank you both for such a candid and vulnerable conversation.. I love you both and have learned so much from the 2 of you.

[@ehzesproduction]

One of the best meaningful conversations I have heard in a while ❤️

[@thekadonexperience]

This is amazing. Simon's face during the conversation says it all.

[@Sagepage818]

Thank you for this interview. Steven is so insightful and with similar background history I'm completely inspired by him.

[@popecovenant5502]

This conversation most especially towards the end sounds the conversation between a proud father and his son

[@user-ol1wi5dh4o]

Such a good conversation! Loved the part about company culture - Clarity of your role and clear expectations is essential. 😊❤👌

[@simonpaulmiddleton]

Wonderful conversation between two abundant people. Simon just a perspective - we are not animals (sloppy thinking and an old paradigm language). We are human beings... which is such a gift.

[@franklinhopkinsjr1065]

What a great conversation. I love the discussion on the details organizationally…

[@nosindisomyeni]

My two favorite human beings

[@christianbunch9047]

I loved this episode. Wonderful insight on what the character and purpose of a truly successful leader should look like.

[@LisaDKN]

As I have divested from my current partnership and ready to purchase another company, this couldn't be more timely. Should I or shouldn't I. This answered that. Both are hard; which is worth it. I agree with Simon that Steven represents the future of business. It has always been of primary importance that hands that do the work are equally compensated with the leaders and the visionaries. What is an idea without execution and what is it an execution without an idea. I have always attempted to push the envelope in corporate settings from productivity to humanity. Focus on productivity provides the opposite outcome. Focusing on humanity brings more productivity. People are starting to see it. Thank you Simon and Steven, for inspiring me to move forward. Yes, it's worth it to further the change.❤

[@Toocurplants]

thank you

[@jurgitab3100]

Amazing talk! From Simon I learned that I love then I am doing something for someone else I need to know WHY. For example, with a trainer, if they just say to me do this excersize, that excersice, but do not explain why, I will not be motivated. I will half-assed it. I think as children in school we do not ask enough WHY this subject, Why are we going to school, WHY... we have to uncondition ourselves from that, starting with our homes - why this thing is my house, why we eat this and etc. 💓 thank you Simon and Steven!

[@migueldescoto6876]

WOW! Brilliant. So much important truth to what is said. Please continue, you both signed up!

[@brendan2595]

Steve you have outdone yourself I'm stunned you've reignited my dream of the future please teach more of the way you run your team and expect so much of them yet support them you are my dream Boss!

[@living_kg]

Two of my favorites, love love this episode. Thank you 🤍

[@music_is_saint]

31:30 Simon, youre perfect. What a question and thought behind it. Thanks buddy to being so curious and authentic.