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Stillness In Success

Stillness In Success

by Josh Compton

Education Health & Fitness

Season 1

Episode 32: From Iran to Australia — Building Culture, Business & Inner Peace

In this episode of Stillness In Success, Mustafa Nuristani sits down with entrepreneur and restaurateur Paria, whose journey from Iran to Australia is a powerful story of intention, resilience, and purpose. Paria shares how she transitioned from studying English literature to building her own saffron business, and later co-founding a Persian restaurant that celebrates culture, connection, and community. Through her story, we explore what it truly means to follow intuition, take bold risks, and create opportunities aligned with your deeper vision. The conversation also dives into the profound impact of Transcendental Meditation, and how inner stillness can unlock creativity, clarity, and what Paria describes as “nature’s support” — where life begins to flow effortlessly. Amidst this, there is a heartfelt reflection on the current situation in Iran, highlighting the strength, unity, and cultural depth of its people, even in times of hardship. This episode is a reminder that success is not just built externally, but cultivated from within.

Episode 31: From Psychedelics to Stillness – Michael’s TM Journey

In this episode of Stillness In Success, host Mustafa Nuristani sits down with longtime Transcendental Meditation teacher Michael Dickenss to explore a lifetime journey from youthful searching to inner stillness. Michael shares how, as a 14‑year‑old fascinated by comparative religion and Buddhism, he first encountered the idea of enlightenment—and how that early spark went dormant amid the turbulence of adolescence and early adulthood. In his mid‑20s, a powerful LSD experience opened him to a deeper reality, leading him to abandon drugs and alcohol completely and devote himself to finding a natural, sustainable way to access higher states of consciousness through meditation. Michael describes discovering Transcendental Meditation through a friend whose life transformed—from disheveled student to grounded, radiant meditator—and how his own TM practice quickly dissolved restlessness, brought comfort in his own company, and opened a rich inner world of bliss and self-sufficiency. He recounts moments of everyday transcendence—birdwatching, taking a simple shower, or quietly walking in nature—where ordinary experiences become peak moments of joy through years of regular practice. Mustafa and Michael also discuss the calling to become a TM teacher, teaching family and parents, and how a shared desire to spread meditation reshaped both their lives and communities. Michael reflects on his time in the presence of Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, witnessing first-hand how an enlightened teacher answers questions from a field of stillness and all possibilities, and how that same field becomes accessible to anyone through regular meditation. If you’ve ever felt lost in your 20s, questioned the role of substances on the spiritual path, or wondered how meditation can turn the simplest moments into sources of profound happiness, this conversation will resonate deeply. 🔔 If this episode speaks to you, please subscribe, share it with someone who might benefit, and leave a review to help others discover Stillness In Success. Timestamps: 00:00 – Introduction & Michael’s early search for meaning 04:10 – From comparative religion to the first glimpse of enlightenment 08:25 – Psychedelics, perception, and the decision to quit drugs 13:40 – Discovering TM through a friend’s transformation 19:05 – Early experiences of stillness, self-acceptance, and inner richness 24:30 – Everyday joy: birds, showers, nature and simple moments 30:10 – Becoming a TM teacher and teaching family 36:20 – In the presence of Maharishi: questions, answers, and all possibilities 43:00 – “I’ll meditate on it”: letting consciousness solve problems 48:10 – Closing reflections on a life anchored in meditation Connect & Learn More: – Listen to more episodes of Stillness In Success on your favourite podcast platform. – Share this episode with a friend who’s exploring meditation or feeling a little lost on their life path.

Episode 30: Finding Balance and Success Through Stillness with Peter Fenwick

In this inspiring episode of Stillness In Success, host Mustafa Nuristani sits down with industry veteran Peter Fenwick — a renowned figure in real estate with over 40 years of experience. Peter shares his remarkable journey from motivational speaking to becoming a leader in the real estate world, revealing how meditation and inner stillness became the cornerstone of his success. Together, Mustafa and Peter explore the power of Transcendental Meditation (TM), work-life balance, and how integrating calmness and clarity into your daily routine can cultivate both professional excellence and personal fulfilment. Join us as we uncover Peter’s timeless wisdom on leading with presence, achieving sustainable success, and finding true happiness in the fast-paced world of business and life.

Episode 29: Raising Resilient Kids on the Road

In this heartfelt episode of Stillness In Success, host Mustafa Nuristani sits down with longtime friend Penny, a former schoolteacher who sold her home, bought a caravan, and hit the road around Australia with her two energetic young boys. Together, they explore what it means to live as a “spiritual nomad” — from bush camping without facilities and teaching responsible fire-making, to turning long drives into living classrooms for maths, geography, and life skills. Penny shares how homeschooling in nature has boosted her children’s confidence, creativity, and resilience, and how the challenges of tiny-space living become powerful opportunities for growth. The conversation then dives into the profound role Transcendental Meditation has played in Penny’s life since she learned it as a child, and how it continues to anchor her through the chaos of parenting, travel, and constant change. She describes the immediate shift after meditation — from overwhelm to inner stability, clarity, and a natural sense of “I’ve got this” — and how her own nervous system regulation directly shapes her children’s behaviour and emotional balance. Mustafa and Penny use vivid examples to explain how regular meditation helps dissolve stress, sharpen intuition, and deepen our connection with others, no matter where we are — whether in the vast stillness of the outback or parked by a secluded beach at sunrise.

Episode 28: The Psychology of Stillness and Sound

In this uplifting episode of Stillness In Success, host Mustafa Nuristani sits down with Patrick O’Connor — a seasoned clinical psychologist and musician from Western Australia. With over 46 years in psychology and decades performing rock and roll on stage, Patrick shares how Transcendental Meditation (TM) has shaped both his professional and creative life. He opens up about working in high-stress environments like forensic psychiatry and regional health, and how TM helps him stay grounded, calm, and fully present. From laughing uncontrollably during his first meditation session to experiencing “flow” while performing live music, Patrick beautifully illustrates the connection between mental stillness and creative expression. Whether you’re seeking peace in your career, clarity in chaos, or inspiration to reconnect with your creative side — this conversation is a masterclass in finding balance through stillness.

Episode 27: Meditation, Intuition, and Real Estate Success with Stephen Harper

In this inspiring episode of Stillness In Success, host Mustafa Nuristani sits down with Stephen Harper, a real estate investor who mastered the art of achieving more by doing less. For over 30 years, Stephen balanced just a few hours of work each day with deep commitment to Transcendental Meditation and the Invincible America Assembly program. He shares how meditation amplified his intuition, led him to make smarter investment decisions, and helped him sustain prosperity through economic shifts—including the 2008 housing crash. From stories of spiritual retreats in India to practical lessons on flow, focus, and inner clarity, this episode explores the profound link between consciousness and success. Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, or seeker, Stephen’s story reveals how stillness can unlock extraordinary momentum in life and business.

Episode 26: From War to Stillness — Mustafa’s Journey of Transformation

In this special episode of Stillness in Success, host Mustafa Nuristani steps into the guest seat as his colleague, Karen Warner, takes over and turns the tables. For the first time, Mustafa opens up about his remarkable life story — from growing up amid war in Afghanistan, to finding peace through Transcendental Meditation, to his journey as an international model, journalist, and now a meditation teacher. This heartfelt conversation reveals the personal experiences that shaped Mustafa’s mission to bring stillness and peace to others. Tune in to hear stories of resilience, purpose, and spiritual growth — a perfect way to begin 2026 with inspiration and reflection.

Episode 25: Exploring Consciousness Based Education with Sonia Culcasi, Maharishi School Principal

In this episode of Stillness In Success, host Mustafa Nuristani welcomes Sonia Culcasi, the principal of the Maharishi School in Melbourne, Australia—the only school in the country offering consciousness based education. Sonia shares insights into this unique educational approach founded by Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, including how children and their parents learn transcendental meditation to nurture brain development, stress relief, and creative intelligence. They discuss the school's integration of meditation techniques tailored for different age groups and the powerful impact it has on students’ confidence, creativity, and resilience. Sonia also reflects on her personal journey from science teacher to principal and TM teacher, highlighting how meditation has supported her own clarity and purpose. Join us for a captivating conversation about holistic education, inner stillness, and nurturing authentic self-expression in children. Make sure to subscribe and share this episode with your family and friends!