What I've Learned

We’re celebrating one full year of ABWilson’s Heart of the Matter podcast, a year of stories, a year of listening, and a year of meaningful, heart-opening conversations. What began as a simple radio interview show in 2010/11, to ask overwhelmingly positive questions, has grown into a space filled with sharing, reflection, and laughter.  

As I look back on the episodes I’ve shared, a few themes stand out - threads that quietly but consistently show up in each conversation.

Vulnerability is a Strength

There’s something powerful about hearing someone say, “I live with fear a lot, but I act despite the fear.” It reminds us that courage doesn’t mean having it all together. It means showing up anyway.  

And when someone describes courage as, “leading from the heart and standing in your truth regardless of how hard that is,” it lands deeply. These stories are a testament to how being honest about where we are can open the door to where we want to go.

Living With Intention

One thing I hear often is how important it is to live and lead with purpose. One guest shared, “Sometimes the magic of coaching has nothing to do with tools. It's really just about showing up to love and to listen.” That simple practice—being fully present—is one of the most impactful ways to support others.  

Another said, “Every good news message needs a John the Baptist… someone who’s going to be bold, kind, and enthusiastic in saying, ‘There’s something good here. Let me show you.’” When people live from that kind of clarity and care, it’s contagious.

Reflection as a Way of Life

My guests don’t just talk about change, they make space for it. From taking breaks from their phones to embracing silence, their self-care practices aren’t trendy, they’re intentional.  

 “There are certain times in the week where I just don’t answer the phone… so I can conserve my energy for what’s truly important.”

And this: “I can be in a festival with thousands of people and feel alive—and I can also be completely at peace alone in my space.”

These conversations remind me that growth doesn’t always come with a big announcement. Sometimes, it shows up quietly, in a shift of perspective, a moment of stillness, a small act of courage.  

As we celebrate this one-year milestone, I’m filled with gratitude, for the guests who’ve shared so openly, and for every listener who’s tuned in and found something that resonated. 

If you haven’t listened in a while, or haven’t yet at all, I invite you to join us.

ABWilson’s Heart of the Matter podcast is a space to reconnect with the values that ground us, through the voices of people you may know, and stories you just might see yourself in.

Cheers to a year of listening and to what’s still to come.

Please drop me an email and share your thoughts about the podcast. 

Be well,

Aderonke 

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