Episode 190: Find Your Zen - Inspired Wanderlust with Brian Kuchinski
“You have to play an active role in your life. Inspiration doesn’t change anything unless you act on it.”
This week, we’re honored to welcome Brian Kuchinski, founder of Peaceful Ponds and a lifelong seeker of beauty, meaning, and connection through nature. Known for helping people “find their zen” by recreating waterfalls, streams, and tranquil outdoor spaces, Brian’s work is deeply tied to the way he lives his life, guided by inspiration, gratitude, and action.
Brian takes us on a powerful journey that begins with a spontaneous family trip to Iceland and unfolds into something far deeper. What starts as a story about chasing waterfalls and the Northern Lights becomes a reflection on listening to the universe, recognizing moments of awe, and trusting the quiet nudges that invite us into adventure. Along the way, Brian shares how travel, nature, and coincidence have repeatedly aligned in ways that feel anything but accidental.
At the heart of this conversation is Brian’s experience with profound loss, the death of his son, Xander, and how that loss reshaped his understanding of purpose, love, and gratitude. He opens up about the “Xander miracles” that continue to show up in his life, the healing paths he’s walked, and the simple but life changing truth that now guides him. The universe wants us to be happy, and gratitude is the key.
In this episode, we explore inspired wanderlust, the healing power of nature, turning inspiration into action, and what it means to live fully even after deep heartbreak. Join us for a moving, honest conversation about choosing awe over fear, finding peace in unexpected places, and making it happen, one dream at a time.
Scott and Brian also discuss:
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
01:57 Reconnecting Through Iceland
04:03 The Iceland Adventure Begins
05:36 Experiencing the Northern Lights
10:36 Planning Your Own Iceland Trip
20:57 The Birth of Peaceful Ponds
26:22 Reflecting on 20 Years of Growth
26:33 Inspired Wanderlust: The Power of Travel
27:03 Chasing Waterfalls: A Lifelong Passion
31:49 The Xander Miracle: A Story of Grace and Inspiration
38:53 Ayahuasca Journey: Healing and Transformation
45:36 Living an Inspired Life: Taking Action
50:55 Conclusion: Embracing Adventure and Gratitude
You can learn more about Brian by following him on Instagram and Facebook or checking out Peaceful Ponds peacefulponds.net and Xander’s Acts of Kindness xandersactsofkindness.com.
See below for photos Brian shared from his travels and life...
Watch the Full Behind The Scenes Episode
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