Resilient Leadership Lessons; David Brennan

David Brennan is a source of resilient leadership lessons, an innovative entrepreneur, and a dedicated advocate for female founders. Hailing from the Yukon Territories, David’s leadership qualities were honed through sports and later refined through personal and professional growth. Despite early academic challenges due to ADHD, he achieved a significant transformation by completing an online MBA with distinction, which reignited his passion for lifelong learning.
As the founder of Arkeo AI, David is revolutionizing business operations with a SaaS co-pilot that integrates AI to enhance efficiency. His leadership philosophy is rooted in mindfulness, using his running practice to stay grounded and focused. David is committed to fostering diverse teams and empowering female leaders, recognizing the unique balance they bring to the business world. Connect with David on LinkedIn to follow his inspiring journey and learn from his wealth of experience.

Listen & Subscribe on: iTunes / Stitcher / Podbean / Overcast / Spotify Contact Info

• Website: arkeoai.com/
• LInkedIn: David Brennan

Most Influential Person

• Stephanie, a spiritual leader and performance coach

Effect On Emotions

• Mindfulness has allowed me to truly feel emotions. For a long time, as a man, showing emotions was frowned upon, so I just boxed them up and didn't feel them.
• That's not a healthy way to live. As I've become more mindful and aware of what's happening around me, I've been able to actually experience my emotions.
• This has been incredibly healthy and surprisingly fun because life is pretty dull without feeling it all.

Thoughts On Breathing

• I struggle with meditation and am not very good at it, but running serves as my meditation. It helps me manage my ADHD and expend energy.
• However, I've discovered some amazing breathwork exercises that everyone should try. For instance, Andrew Huberman talks about the sympathetic sigh, which can help relieve a cramp while running. I also practice box breathing regularly.
• Just six weeks ago, I was in Zion National Park, feeling like I was about to fall off a 1,500-foot mountain. I sat down and did 10 minutes of box breathing, which centered me right into the moment.
• Breathwork is one of the most powerful tools anyone can use.

Bullying Story

• Bullying is a complex issue. I remember bullying someone as a kid and having a deep conversation with a teacher afterward. That moment made me realize that wasn't the kind of person I wanted to be, and it stuck with me.
• In the oil and gas industry, I saw so much of this toxic behavior. The environment was so harsh that showing any emotion meant you’d be torn down.
• One reason I left oil and gas was because of this toxicity. In the tech world, I can create safer, more supportive teams. It's crucial to foster an environment where inappropriate behavior is addressed.
• Unhappy people often act out, leading to bullying and a toxic workplace. Being aware and connected with your team helps prevent these issues and promotes a healthier work culture

Suggested Resources

• Book: The Mountain Is You by Brianna Wiest
• App: Othership Breathwork App
• App: Sam Harris Breathwork App

Related Episodes

Mind, Mountains, and Mental Health; Mike Schauch

A​​n Architect’s Mindful Life Vision; Lance Cayko

The 200% Life; Adam Hergenrother

Offer From Bruce

Seeking relief from stress and anxiety? As a coach and hypnotist, I'm here to help you conquer your inner critic so you can confidently thrive. Email me at bruce@mindfulnessmode.com with ‘I Am Determined' for a free coaching session. Let me help you pave the way to a fulfilling life.