Articles and Stories

Articles and stories

The articles and stories on this page are published on our Substack, The Eclectic Mix. There we explore a wide range of topics — including Taking Time Out, our PAWS acronym, study tips for returning students, and conversations around teaching and leadership. We also review movies, books, and travel destinations. True to its name, The Eclectic Mix brings together topics chosen to resonate with our community.

This is a new publication for MBS Global, and we’d love for you to follow along. Subscribers receive notifications whenever we publish, plus invitations to watch videos, listen to podcasts, and join our community.

We read and reply to every comment on The Eclectic Mix, and we use your feedback to shape future programs — including workshops, retreats, and learning materials.

Articles & Stories

Detours in Sydney: From Rainy Days to Rainbows at Bondi

Stories & Articles Planning study tours from the field Planning study tours from the field From the Boot Office Today is planning day – or at least the afternoon is set aside for planning. I often find it easier to work in a quiet place, not necessarily my office, which...

When the detour becomes the destination

Stories & Articles When the detour becomes the destination PAWS Near Port Macquarie, a simple charging stop became an invitation to rest, reflect, and rethink the boundaries set by habit and expectation. My time-out to pause continues as I drive south, leaving the monks at the Crystal Castle near Mullumbimby...

A day with the Gyuto Tibetan Monks at the Crystal Castle & Shambhala Gardens, NSW, Australia.When the Detour Becomes the Destination

Stories & Articles In the company of crystals and monks PAWS P for Pause | In the company of crystals and monks I often suggest to people the importance of taking time to pause, and have done so in my articles in this newsletter. Today, I too took time to...

PAWS | S is for setting boundaries

Stories & Articles PAWS: S is for setting boundaries PAWS S for Setting Boundaries | For a healthy mind, body, and spirit We’ve reached the final letter in PAWS: S for Setting Boundaries. It might be the most important part of self-care we make in our week.So many of us...

Activity as Preparation: What Students Need Before They Begin

Stories & Articles Activity as Preparation: What Students Need Before They Begin PAWS A for Activity — Creating Space for the Things That Matter    If you’ve been following along over the past few weeks, you’ll know that I’ve been exploring what I have named the PAWS framework — Pause...

The Eclectic Mix Presents PAWS

Stories & Articles The Eclectic Mix presents PAWS PAWS How pausing, purposeful activity, writing, and boundaries can reshape your week. P=Pause We rush through our days — getting ourselves ready, supporting family, meeting the needs of colleagues, clients, and everyone in between. What often gets lost is the simple act...

Getting into the Groove – Part 3

Getting into the Groove: Part 3 – Work Smarter with the Right Tools A simple classroom moment revealed how powerful the right tools can be when we take the time to learn them. Recently, I received several emails from former students—now working professionals—asking whether I could share videos explaining some...

Getting into the Groove – Part 2

Stories & Articles Getting into the Groove – Part 2 – The Diary If you’re juggling study, work, and personal commitments, a diary isn’t optional—it’s essential. The question isn’t whether to use one, but how. Introduction Paper diary or digital calendar? It’s a question I’m asked often—and one I’ve spent...

Getting into the Groove – Part 1

Stories & Articles Getting into the Groove – Part 1 Returning to study can feel like both a fresh start and a daunting step. For many learners—particularly those balancing work, family, and other commitments—the beginning of the academic year brings excitement alongside uncertainty. Whether you are returning after a break...

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As mentioned, previosuly, we also have a Substack Publication called The Eclectic Mix, where you will find a number of articles and posts.