Open Awareness: Asking For Help to Move From Struggle to Strength

The Kintsugi Podcast - Stories of Connection

Join us in this engaging episode of The Kintsugi Podcast as Michael O'Brien shares his inspiring journey across America on a bicycle. From enduring harsh weather in Oregon to discovering the kindness of strangers, Michael's adventure offers profound insights into resilience, connection, and the power of asking for help. Accompanied by his wife and their furry companions, Michael's trip not only tested his physical limits but also brought to life the real meaning of community and support in challenging times.

Show Notes:

• Michael introduces the podcast and his cross-country cycling journey in 2022.

• Michael shares unique stories of connection experienced during his ride.

• The small town of Mitchell, Oregon, and its unexpected charm.

• Anticipation of cycling through Eastern Oregon's scenic landscapes.

• Michael's struggle with harsh weather and the importance of optimism.

• The physical and mental challenges faced during a steep climb and descent.

• Michael's critical decision to seek help during a dangerous bout of hypothermia.

• A heartwarming encounter with a kind couple offering refuge from the storm.

• Reflection on the importance of seeking assistance and the connection it fosters.

• Insights on safety, resilience, and the importance of making smart choices.

• How asking for help strengthens bonds and enriches both the helper and the helped.

• Emphasizing the mutual benefits and emotional rewards of helping others.

• An invitation to listeners to embrace assistance in their own lives.

  Video of me shivering on Mary and Joseph's porch: https://youtu.be/4lftJsNzfao