I’m joined by David Gilks, a chartered herbalist, biokinesiologist, and former Medical Exercise Program Director with 30+ years of experience in the fields of natural medicine, neuroscience, and behavioral change. David brings a rare blend of ancient wisdom and modern science to the table as we unpack the one thing that truly changes everything—our capacity to integrate what we know into what we do.

We explore the intersection of spirituality, cultural neuroscience, and self-leadership. David shares why so many high performers struggle with deep change, how emotional regulation affects decision-making, and what practices can reconnect us to our body’s innate intelligence.

If you're ready to shift from information overload to embodied transformation, this conversation is for you.

He's the author of From Knowing Better to Doing Better: The One Thing That Changes Everything, which explores the intersection of neuroscience and spirituality. He currently develops programs and coaches high-achieving clients through the Alcohol-Free Lifestyle platform.

David is also a father, grandfather, and nationally ranked natural bodybuilder. He is currently studying neuroscience at Duke University, continuing his lifelong pursuit of understanding the mind-body-spirit connection.

Watch this episode on YouTube:https://youtu.be/bonSp1Uy3ro

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The Entrepreneurial Elevation Podcast and content posted by Kelley Beveridge is presented solely for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast or website is at the user's own risk. It is not intended as a substitute for the advice of a physician, professional coach, psychotherapist, or other qualified professional, diagnosis, or treatment. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice for any medical or mental health condition they may have and should seek the assistance of their healthcare professionals for any such conditions.

Transcript

[00:01:00] David introduces the concept of "the one thing"—being grounded and core-centered physically, emotionally, and psychologically. He explores what alignment truly means beyond social media buzzwords.

[00:04:00] Through his background in orthopedics and athletics, David explains how focusing on core strength (physically and mentally) solves many surface-level problems. Alignment is a full-body, full-life conversation.

[00:07:00] He shares how character traits are the emotional and psychological equivalent of physical core strength. Citing Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey, David shows that our internal virtues must be in sight to face life’s challenges.

[00:10:00] David prompts listeners to ask: What are the top 2–3 character traits I need to move forward in life? He explains that change doesn’t start with action, but with being—the foundation of true transformation.

[00:13:00] He shares his own three chosen character traits: truth, courage, and compassion—and explains how each one shapes behavior, focus, and emotional resilience.

[00:17:00] David talks about congruency between physical and emotional core strength. Without alignment in both, we create imbalance in our health, career, or relationships.

[00:23:00] Why do people stay stuck in “knowing better” and struggle to shift into “doing better”? Because doing requires behavioral change, consistency, and often, sacrifice—things our nervous system resists.

[00:27:00] He unpacks the idea of “not feeling like yourself,” explaining how emotional memories can hijack our behavior. Awareness of this allows for better decision-making and alignment.

[00:31:00] David breaks down the idea of congruency: it’s hyper-specific. Just like athletes train their physical core daily, we must also train our character consistently to stay grounded.

[00:36:00] To close, he shares a powerful journaling practice: identify your top character traits, define what they mean, and revisit your goals through that lens. You'll uncover what you truly want—and why.