Host Susi Vine interviews Belgian-born adventurer Johan Depraetere, a former professional footballer who has travelled to nearly 100 countries and lived across Brussels, Boston, New York, Barcelona, London, and Seoul. Johan, co-founder of Energy Equation Partners and author of Pick Your Gummy Bear, explains his tasty perspective of navigating big life choices and noticing the small nudges that shape one’s path, comparing them to selecting candy. He discusses “befriending” the inner critic, exploring unfamiliar environments, learning from artists, embracing your unique personality, and daily practices that keep him aligned. Key themes include personal agency, avoiding comparison, asking “why not,” and navigating impermanence and loss while savoring the gifts in every experience.
Host Susi Vine welcomes Belgian-born modern nomad Johan Depraetere, now based in the UK, whose path spans professional football, global living across Brussels, Boston, New York, Barcelona, London, and Seoul, travel to nearly 100 countries, leadership in the energy transition industry, coaching research scientists at Cancer Research UK, and publishing his book, ‘Pick Your Gummy Bear’. Johan shares his take on the “green” gummy bears (big life choices) and “yellow” gummy bears (small nudges) that shape our lives, urging listeners to ask “why not,” reclaim agency, and notice subtle signals that have the power to transform the shape of our lives. He illustrates with stories about discovering a love of cycling via a charity ride, meeting his South Korean wife through a culturally aware gesture, and creating a Tibet photo exhibition after her encouragement. Johan and Susi discuss befriending the inner critic through accepting failure, welcoming new experiences, fostering creativity, and daily centering practices, inspiring listeners to live more from the heart while welcoming unexpected gifts
Inside this episode:
Connect with Johan and discover his recommended resources through his website: johandepraetere.com
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