Transformative Leadership with Dawa Tarchin Phillips

Introduction

In this episode of How to Live a Fantastic Life, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Dawa Tarchin Phillips, a world-renowned expert in human transformation, mindful leadership, and AI coaching. Having spent 12 years in a monastery, including seven in deep meditation, Dawa blends ancient wisdom with cutting-edge neuroscience to revolutionize leadership and business. As the founder of Empowerment Holdings and Taiwa.com, he has received recognition from Forbes, Fast Company, and The New York Times.

Monastic Life and Leadership Transformation

Dawa shares how his monastic training shaped his leadership philosophy. He emphasizes the importance of knowing where you’re going before leading others, explaining his concept of the "two curricula": understanding one’s purpose and learning how to thrive in the world. His experiences in deep meditation prepared him for his role in bringing mindfulness into business and education, helping unlock human potential through attention and awareness practices.

Challenges of Transitioning from Monastic Life to Entrepreneurship

Transitioning from monastic life to the business world took Dawa nearly three years. He explains how commitment is the bridge between these two worlds, whether in business, family, or personal growth. He acknowledges the challenges of reintegration but highlights the lasting impact of his spiritual foundation in guiding his entrepreneurial journey.

AI and the Future of Leadership Coaching

Dawa discusses how AI is transforming leadership development and executive coaching. Unlike traditional technologies, AI introduces relational interaction, offering personalized, scalable coaching. He emphasizes AI’s ability to democratize access to high-quality leadership training, previously limited to top executives.

Ethical Considerations in AI and Mindfulness

Dawa highlights the ethical responsibility of AI in leadership coaching. Confidentiality and security remain paramount, and he stresses the importance of developing AI with ethical intent. He urges technology creators to prioritize human well-being, ensuring AI serves as a tool for empowerment rather than manipulation.

Empowerment Holdings: Principles of Business Success

Dawa attributes his success at Empowerment Holdings to a genuine interest in helping others succeed. His company operates on principles of integrity, generosity, and delivering value beyond financial transactions. He encourages entrepreneurs to prioritize value creation and ethical business practices.

Balancing Spirituality and Science in Leadership

Dawa explains how true leadership requires both intelligence and wisdom. His work integrates scientific research on leadership with spiritual principles like ethics, intention, and openness to guidance. He believes that leadership should not only be data-driven but also deeply humanistic.

BIO:

Dawa Tarchin Phillips is one of world’s foremost human transformation experts and a visionary serial entrepreneur. After 12 years in a monastery, including 7 years in meditation retreat, he established a University of California research center in neuroscience and co-founded the International Mindfulness Teachers Association which accredits mindfulness teacher training programs and educators in 30 countries. He’s a sought after speaker and #1 bestselling author on mindful leadership and conscious business, founder and chairman of Empowerment Holdings, and founder and CEO of TAIWA.com, a leading AI Coaching platform to scale AI coaching in organizations. His work is recognized by the Transformational Leadership Council, the Association of Transformational Leaders, the New York Times, Huffington Post, Forbes, and Fast Company.

Social Media:

Facebook: @dawatarchinphillips

LinkedIn: @dawatarchinphillips

Twitter: @DawaPhillips

Instagram: @dawatarchinphillips

The Transformational Power of Change with Will Samson

Introduction Host Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes transformational coach and consultant Will Samson. With over two decades of experience in organizational change and a PhD in psychology, Will empowers executive teams, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals to navigate growth, resilience, and self-discovery. His inspiring journey of overcoming addiction and reinventing his life in his 50s proves that transformation is always possible.

Overcoming Rock Bottom Will shares the pivotal moment that led him to change. Despite professional success, he struggled with addiction, using alcohol to mask his unhappiness. A traffic accident with legal consequences became his wake-up call. He decided to embrace transformation, leading to personal growth and a new path in coaching and consulting.

The Impact of Recovery on Coaching Will outlines how his recovery journey shaped his coaching methodology. He emphasizes four key steps in transformation:

• Identifying what is within one's control
• Reconciling with oneself
• Building better relationships with others
• Establishing systems to sustain progress These principles apply not just to overcoming addiction but also to business and personal growth.

Helping Executives Embrace Change Will discusses the resistance to change in leadership and how he helps executives overcome it. His seminar, You Are Chaos, challenges leaders to recognize that they shape their own environment. The acronym VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity) describes today’s business landscape, and Will teaches leaders to take ownership of their internal change first before addressing external challenges.

Building Resilience in Leadership A key component of leadership is resilience. Will guides executives through an exercise using three questions:

• I come from a people who…
• I come from a place where…
• I bring with me… These reflections help leaders recognize their past influences and develop self-trust, which is essential for resilience in both personal and professional life.

The Slow Change Approach Will stresses that meaningful transformation takes time. Recovery research shows it takes 18 months for the brain to reset from addiction, and similarly, real change in business and life requires patience. His "slow change" philosophy helps clients commit to the process of transformation rather than seeking instant results.

Common Misconceptions About Coaching One major misunderstanding in coaching is the belief that a coach will do the work for the client. Will differentiates coaching from therapy, emphasizing that coaching is about guiding individuals to act on what they already know they need to do. He likens it to sports coaching—strategic insight is valuable, but the player must execute the plays.

A Success Story Will shares an inspiring client story: a young engineer with ambitions to become the youngest CTO in their company’s history. Through structured coaching, they achieved their goal in 15 months, demonstrating the power of clear goals, self-awareness, and persistence.

Key Qualities of Successful Leaders Successful executives share common traits, including:

• Asking more questions than making statements
• Practicing empathy and authenticity
• Understanding what they can and cannot control
• Building a team around them that fosters interdependence

BIO:

Will Samson is a transformational coach and consultant who shapes the future of work and life through thought leadership. With over two decades of experience in organizational change management and a Ph.D. in Sociology, Will empowers executive teams, entrepreneurs, and high-net-worth individuals to navigate growth, resilience, and self-discovery. His personal story of overcoming addiction and reinventing his life in his 50s showcases his belief that it’s never too late to change and thrive.

Social Media:

https://linktr.ee/willsamsonchangecoach

Episode: Celebrity Edition – Jeffrey Sitcov & Justine Yildiz

Host: Dr. Allen Lycka

Overview

In this powerful and inspiring episode, Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Jeffrey Sitcov, founder of Doors of Change, and Justine Yildiz, a former homeless youth turned advocate and director with the organization. Together, they share the mission and life-changing impact of Doors of Change, which has transformed thousands of young lives across the United States through outreach, music, and unconditional support.

Meet Jeffrey Sitcov

Jeffrey Sitcov has dedicated over 24 years to Doors of Change, helping more than 2,900 homeless youth find safe housing. The organization is trusted by celebrities like Elton John, Billy Joel, and Bruce Springsteen, whose support has helped raise nearly $900,000 in memorabilia sales for outreach efforts. With music and art as healing tools, the organization offers hope to youth who have lost trust in the system.

Justine Yildiz’s Journey

Justine’s story is one of courage and resilience. After fleeing an abusive home at age 12, she lived on the streets until she was connected with Doors of Change. The program gave her mental health support, food, and unconditional love. She later founded a jewelry business, graduated college, survived cancer, and now serves as the organization’s director. She uses her experience to empower others still struggling

Why Music & Art?

Jeffrey recalls bringing a blues band into a shelter and watching the youth light up. That moment launched an 18-year music and art program that helped over 8,000 youth before the pandemic. These creative outlets build confidence, boost self-esteem, and even offer income opportunities on the streets.

Shocking Statistics

There are over 4.2 million homeless youth in the U.S.—a staggering number that includes a disproportionate 40% from the LGBTQ+ community, many of whom are kicked out after coming out. Doors of Change provides a lifeline with 24/7 outreach, mental health support, education, and career training.

Success Stories

Justine shares Tyler’s story, who once slept under a pier and is now a security team manager. Jeffrey recounts Sergio’s transformation from a 14-year-old with cancer on the streets to a college student studying to be a translator. These stories show the power of community and support.

How You Can Help

Visit www.doorsofchange.org to donate, view youth stories, or purchase signed memorabilia. Monthly donations, even as low as $18, make a tangible impact. Tickets are also available for the September 6 benefit concert in San Diego featuring Jumping Jack Flash, a Rolling Stones tribute band.

Final Thoughts

Dr. Lycka reminds us that love, action, and belief are the true catalysts for change. Justine and Jeffrey embody what it means to live a fantastic life—through gratitude, purpose, and helping others rise.

Connect

• Guest Organization: www.doorsofchange.org
• Host Website: www.drallenlycka.com

Doors Of Change spokesperson and homeless survivor, Justine Bethel, is available individually to join the charities founder and president, Jeffrey Sitcov, to discuss the needs of homeless youth in San Diego as well as supporting outreach in cities including Los Angeles, Chicago, Buffalo, Washington DC, securing the support of some of entertainments biggest names (List below) to help raise awareness of the 4.2 million homeless across the United States.

Please see a larger list of celebrity supporters below which include musicians Elton John, Billy Joel, Mick Jagger, Bruce Springsteen, Ringo Starr, Shania Twain, Eric Clapton, James Taylor, Willie Nelson, and many more.

IMMEDIATE RELEASE

FOUNDER/PRESIDENT, JEFFREY SITCOV, SECURES UNPRECEDENTED ROSTER OF

LEGENDS, ICONS & ENTERTAINMENT ROYALTY TO SUPPORT & RAISE AWARENESS

AS HOMELESS YOUTH LEAPS FROM 3.5 MILLION TO 4.2 MILLION IN AMERICA

DOORS OF CHANGE HAS ESTABLISHED A MODEL FOR OTHER CITIES TO FOLLOW.

Celebrity Edition – Nelson Aspen on Titanic, Time Travel & Telling Untold Stories

Episode Summary:

In this captivating episode, Dr. Allen Lycka sits down with Nelson Aspen—award-winning journalist, author, and Titanic expert—to dive into his newest book, Kindred Spirits: A Titanic Tale. This historical fantasy is inspired by Aspen’s lifelong metaphysical connection with Titanic passenger Milton Long, blending history, mystery, and a touch of romance. From childhood fascinations to uncanny experiences with famed oceanographer Dr. Robert Ballard, Nelson shares the inspiration, research, and emotional resonance behind his story.

Meet Nelson Aspen

Nelson Aspen is best known for his global entertainment reporting and now, his deep dive into Titanic lore. A lifelong ocean liner enthusiast, Nelson’s curiosity began at age eight after watching The Poseidon Adventure. His fascination with Titanic led him to believe he shares a metaphysical link—or even a reincarnation tie—with passenger Milton Long.

Discovering Milton Long

Milton Long, a 29-year-old gentleman from Massachusetts, died in the Titanic disaster. A wealthy only child who never married, Milton remains an enigma. Nelson’s journey to uncover his story led to the powerful premise of Kindred Spirits, a novel where two souls—Milton and Nelson—inhabit one body and unravel historical mysteries together.

Behind the Book: A Titanic Tale

Blending Nelson’s background in journalism and entertainment, Kindred Spirits is a genre-bending historical fantasy. It features real Titanic figures like Molly Brown and John Jacob Astor while weaving in steamy scenes, discussions of identity, and themes of unrequited love. The novel is both respectful of Titanic’s legacy and rich in historical detail, with a modern twist.

From Research to Podcasting

Nelson’s Titanic obsession led to his involvement in documentaries and the creation of the Titanic Talk podcast. With over 50 episodes, it brings together actors, historians, divers, and others tied to Titanic lore. His exhaustive research spans decades and includes connections to James Cameron’s Titanic and helping an actress land a role in the film.

A Paranormal Phone Call

One chilling tale: when Nelson phoned Dr. Robert Ballard (Titanic’s wreck discoverer) in 1985, Ballard answered with “Hello, Milton.” Was it coincidence or a metaphysical moment? That eerie encounter only strengthened Nelson’s belief in his connection to Milton Long.

Lessons from the Past

Nelson discusses the hubris that led to Titanic’s tragedy and the parallels to modern events, like the Titan submersible disaster. He emphasizes that despite advancements, human ego and overconfidence still often override caution.

Global Impact & Future Hopes

From silent films in 1912 to modern AI-assisted adaptations, Titanic's story transcends borders. Nelson hopes Kindred Spirits might be adapted—not as another sinking tale, but as an emotionally rich story about identity, love, and legacy.

Where to Find Nelson & His Book

Nelson is easy to find online at www.nelsonaspen.com and on all social media platforms (@nelsonaspen). Kindred Spirits: A Titanic Tale is available now on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and independent bookstores via print-on-demand.

Don’t miss this engaging episode—full of heart, history, and Hollywood sparkle.

Interview with Nancy MacKay

Introduction Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Nancy MacKay, the founder and CEO of MacKay CEO Forums, an organization that provides high-impact, time-efficient peer support groups for over 1,200 CEOs, executives, and business owners globally. Under Nancy's leadership, MacKay CEO Forums has achieved an impressive 708% ROI in increased profitability, employee retention, and customer satisfaction.

The Birth of MacKay CEO Forums Nancy shares the story of how she was introduced to CEO peer groups. Invited as a speaker for a CEO group in Vancouver, she was encouraged to become their forum chair. This pivotal experience led to the founding of MacKay CEO Forums in 2005. Over the years, she has expanded the organization to provide peer support for CEOs facing common leadership challenges.

The Biggest Leadership Challenges CEOs Face Nancy emphasizes that the top three challenges CEOs discuss in peer groups revolve around people—managing teams, handling board relations, and navigating business partnerships. She highlights that time management is another major concern, with many CEOs struggling to balance professional and personal responsibilities. Dr. Lycka and Nancy agree that prioritization, delegation, and emotional mastery are key to overcoming these challenges.

Time Mastery for CEOs Nancy outlines three major time management pitfalls CEOs encounter:

1. The 24/7 Trap – CEOs believing they must work around the clock, leading to burnout.
2. The Do-It-Yourself Syndrome – Reluctance to delegate, causing bottlenecks in business operations.
3. The Negative Mindset – Letting external uncertainties affect decision-making and efficiency.

She stresses that CEOs must master time, not just manage it, and focus on making high-impact decisions.

Navigating Economic Crises Reflecting on past economic downturns, including the 2008 financial crisis, Nancy shares how peer groups help CEOs navigate uncertainty. By surrounding themselves with a network of like-minded leaders, they gain the support and insights needed to adapt and thrive in challenging environments.

The Power of Peer Support Dr. Lycka compares MacKay CEO Forums to Napoleon Hill’s concept of mastermind groups. Nancy agrees, explaining that her organization carefully curates peer groups to ensure members receive the most relevant support. These forums create an environment of mutual learning, networking, and business growth.

Measuring the Success of Peer Learning MacKay CEO Forums partnered with the Canadian ROI Institute to evaluate its impact on business performance. The study found that members experienced substantial improvements in customer experience, employee productivity, and revenue growth.

BIO:

Nancy MacKay is the founder and CEO of MacKay CEO Forums, an organization that provides the highest impact and least time-intensive peer support groups for over 1,000 CEOs, executives, and business owners across Canada and around the world. Since founding MacKay CEO Forums in 2005, Nancy has been dedicated to fostering inspiring leadership through confidential peer learning and support. Under her leadership, MacKay CEO Forums has built a community of over 1,200 members, facilitated by 60+ Forum Chairs, delivering an ROI of 708% through increased profit, employee retention, and customer satisfaction as measured by the ROI Institute Canada in 2022.

If listeners would like to download a free chapter of Nancy’s book and gain access to 90-day plans and other time mastery resources please feel free to share this link with your guests: I Don't Have Time - Complimentary Chapter | Nancy MacKay, Nico Human

Social Media:

LinkedIn for MacKay CEO Forums

LinkedIn for Nancy MacKay

Facebook

Spotify

MacKay CEO Forums Website

Living a Radiant Life with Deirdre Hade

Introduction

Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes Deirdre Hade, a modern-day mystic, poet, and visionary leader integrating ancient spiritual traditions with modern psychology. Creator of The Radiance Journey, Deirdre combines energy healing with mystical wisdom. A former ballet director, she shifted her focus to spirituality, co-authoring The Not So Little Book of Surprises with her husband, William Arntz. She is also a philanthropist and was knighted for her humanitarian work.

Deirdre’s Spiritual Awakening

Born in Chicago and raised in Memphis, Deirdre recalls early mystical experiences, including visions of angels. Her mother’s battle with cancer further deepened her spiritual journey, leading her to study Kabbalah, Vedic traditions, and other sacred teachings worldwide. These experiences shaped The Radiance Journey, a unique energy healing system designed to align individuals with divine light.

Blending Spirituality and Psychology

Deirdre shares how she merged spiritual wisdom with contemporary psychology through her mentorship with Dr. LaWanda Steinberg, the first female head of USC’s psychology department. Together, they developed a program integrating psychological principles with energy healing, forming the foundation of The Radiance Journey.

What Is The Radiance Journey?

Unlike Reiki, The Radiance Journey involves transmissions of divine energy from ascended masters, archangels, and saints. These spiritual guides deliver personalized messages and soul readings, offering healing and guidance. Deirdre explains that the inspiration for this practice came through divine instruction, reinforcing that God’s light is inseparable from the healing experience.

From Ballet to Mystic Teacher

Deirdre’s journey from ballet to spiritual teaching was marked by a profound experience while reciting Psalm 91. A great light appeared, leading to a transformative 40-day mystical awakening. This event solidified her calling, guiding her to dedicate her life to spiritual teachings and energy healing.

The Creative Process Behind The Not So Little Book of Surprises

Deirdre collaborated with her husband, William Arntz (What the Bleep Do We Know?), and award-winning photographer Andrew Blake. The book, initially planned as The Little Book of Surprises, expanded to a visually stunning work, designed as an oracle for divine messages. Readers can open any page to receive insightful wisdom, often finding messages that align perfectly with their life situations.

Integrating Spirituality into Daily Life

Many struggle to balance spiritual practice with everyday responsibilities. Deirdre introduces The Silent Watcher, a technique to maintain spiritual connection amid daily activities. By invoking The Silent Watcher, individuals cultivate awareness and inner peace. Dr. Lycka describes experiencing an immediate energetic shift when practicing this method.

A Personal Journey of Healing

Deirdre shares a powerful story of divine guidance during a health crisis. After suffering from pneumonia caused by wildfire smoke, she received an inner message directing her to Kauai, Hawaii, renowned for its pristine air. This journey led her to a transformative healing experience, reinforcing the importance of listening to divine wisdom.

BIO:

Deirdre Hade is a modern-day mystic and visionary leader. Combining ancient spiritual traditions with psychology and wisdom she leads the way to understanding life's most troubling questions with no-nonsense spiritual answers; Helping people world wide contact their angelic guides in an experience of deep peace and inner calm.

Social Media:

https://deirdrehade.com/

IG @deirdre.hade

FB deirdrehade

X @deirdre_hade

public email: radiance@deirdrehade.com

Exploring the World with Meena Thiru

Introduction

Dr. Allen Lycka welcomes travel journalist and world explorer Meena Thiru. With visits to over 50 countries and all seven continents, Meena has written thousands of articles and contributed to top publications like Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, and Fodor's. She is also the founder of www.travelwithmeena.com and a Lonely Planet guidebook author.

Early Inspiration for Travel

Meena's passion for travel began in childhood, accompanying her immigrant parents on trips to India and other destinations. This early exposure inspired her to make travel a way of life rather than just an occasional vacation.

Most Surprising Destination

Iceland left the biggest impression on Meena due to its natural beauty and the warmth of its people. She was welcomed with open arms, quickly making friends and feeling at home. The friendliness and hospitality of Icelanders continue to draw her back.

Most Underrated Destination

Halifax, Nova Scotia, impressed Meena with its charm and vibrant cultural diversity. She was fascinated by the strong Indian community and was deeply moved by the Canadian Immigration Museum at Pier 21, which presented a nuanced perspective on immigration history.

Biggest Travel Challenge

Antarctica posed the greatest challenge due to its remote location and the rough seas of the Drake Passage. Despite the difficulty, its untouched beauty and the unique experience of complete disconnection from technology made it one of the most impactful trips of her life.

Traveling as a Solo Woman

Meena shared insights into solo female travel, particularly in Dubai, where she felt completely safe. She highlighted the importance of preparation, researching cultural expectations, and maintaining communication with trusted friends.

Experiencing Local Life

To truly immerse herself in a destination, Meena prioritizes walking through cities, exploring non-tourist areas, and using public transit. She believes this approach leads to the most authentic experiences, such as discovering hidden cafes and unique neighborhoods in Brussels and Paris.

Debunking Travel Myths

One major myth Meena debunks is that travel must be expensive. She shares how she traveled extensively using frequent flyer miles, work trips, and staying with friends to make travel more accessible.

Writing for Lonely Planet and Top Travel Publications

Meena explains that the key to a great travel guide is storytelling combined with actionable information. She ensures readers can replicate her experiences and truly engage with a place.

Most Memorable Destinations

Meena shares her experiences in Egypt, reflecting on the thrill of walking through ancient history. She also describes the surprise of visiting the Philippines, where the Christmas season transforms Manila into a festive wonderland.

Bucket List Destinations

If Meena had to choose three countries to live in forever, they would be Finland (for its social policies and summer daylight), Singapore (for its safety and healthcare), and the U.S. (because it's home and still has so much to explore).

Final Thoughts on a Fantastic Life

Meena believes in living fully, building meaningful relationships, and making an impact through her work. Her advice is to embrace every opportunity and remain curious about the world.

Connect with Meena

Visit www.travelwithmeena.com for more travel insights and articles.

Tune in Next Time!

BIO:

Meena Thiruvengadam is a journalist who has visited more than 50 countries and all seven continents, writing thousands of articles along the way. She is the founder of travelwithmeena.com, a guidebook author for Lonely Planet, and a contributor to publications including Travel+Leisure, Conde Nast Traveler, and Fodor's.

Social Media:

instagram @meenathiru tiktok @travelwithmeena X @meena_thiru