TMB58 - G. Scott Graham - The Rigor of Rest: Purpose, Pressure, and Becoming

This conversation lit me up.

In this episode, I talk with the unforgettable G. Scott Graham—coach, author, firefighter, Tai Chi teacher, existential handyman, and someone who lives at the rare intersection of Buddhism and badassery. We explore what it really means to metabolize experience, to adapt rather than just awaken, and to live in rigorous alignment with our values.

We cover so much ground: from how to write your first book (and why you shouldn't worry about getting it right), to the mindset that helps us survive emotional shipwrecks, to what it means to live for the death you want to have. Scott shares stories from the Appalachian Trail, his coaching practice, MDMA-assisted grief work, and even his upcoming post-hip-replacement obstacle race. This episode is a masterclass in choosing challenge with wisdom, pausing with purpose, and embracing your core truths while still growing.

It also gets personal. I share how my dissertation on death made me realize I was a terrible listener—and how that led me here. We talk about grief, transformation, and the unexpected clarity that comes from witnessing mortality up close. Scott also breaks down his take on reverse-engineering a meaningful life by identifying values through your bucket list, and why pushing our limits (wisely) matters so much.

If you're navigating reinvention, craving real talk about death, discipline, creativity, or just wondering what it means to live fully—this one's for you.