Acceptance, forgiveness, and happiness sound simple, but most people spend years fighting them without realizing it. In this conversation, Adam Brownlie and Giuliano Grimaudo slow the whole thing down and look at what actually makes a meaningful, satisfying life… not in theory, but in practice.

Adam shares how his curiosity about happiness grew from a very grounded place, including growing up on a farm and later diving into human behavior, philosophy, and research. Together, they explore why happiness is often misunderstood, how our brains are wired to work against us at times, and why acceptance of reality is not passive or weak, but foundational to emotional freedom. Forgiveness comes up not as a moral obligation, but as a practical tool for releasing the weight we carry, often long after events we can’t change.

The conversation also touches on personal responsibility without shame, the role of brain chemistry and hormones in mood and motivation, and the difference between chasing happiness and building a life that supports it. Adam breaks down ideas from his work in a way that feels human and usable, blending research-backed insights with real-world reflection rather than prescriptions or rigid frameworks.

If you’re interested in personal growth, emotional resilience, and what happiness looks like when it’s rooted in acceptance instead of constant striving, this episode offers a grounded, thoughtful perspective. It’s less about fixing yourself and more about understanding yourself, letting go of what no longer serves you, and creating space for joy that actually lasts.

https://adambrownlie.com.au/

How to Be a Person: https://howtobeaperson.co/

Support the show: ⁠https://buymeacoffee.com/jewleeahno

Want to be a guest on How to Be a Person? Send Giuliano Grimaudo a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/17374246500089236b5dfbb6b