EP 12 Expressed on Purpose: Breathwork, Pain and the Journey to Authenticity with Pete Byrne

In this soul-stirring episode of Expressed on Purpose, host Rich Adrian-Smith sits down with breathwork facilitator, musician, and creator Pete Byrne. Pete opens up about his path from music performance to healing arts, sharing the pivotal moments that led him from seeking external validation to discovering inner alignment and authenticity. Through breathwork, Pete has not only transformed his own life but has helped others access emotional release and healing.

Listeners will be taken through Pete’s powerful personal story—from onstage meltdowns to creative breakthroughs—and learn how pain often serves as the catalyst for purpose. The conversation explores the nuanced role of music, AI, and breathwork in emotional healing, and why the journey of self-discovery is less about perfection and more about presence. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating identity, entrepreneurship, or the vulnerability required to lead an authentic life.

What We Discuss:

• 00:00 – Introduction to Breathwork and Personal Journey
• 02:33 – Transitioning from Music to Breathwork
• 05:41 – The Dark Night of the Soul
• 08:47 – Creating Contrast the Musical
• 11:48 – The Meltdown on Stage
• 14:45 – Exploring Authenticity and Purpose
• 17:46 – The Role of Pain in Finding Purpose
• 20:38 – Navigating the Path to Authentic Self
• 23:35 – The Process of Reclaiming the True Self
• 26:30 – Identifying the True Self vs. Ego
• 29:46 – The Journey of Growth and Completion
• 31:39 – Understanding Trauma Responses in Breathwork
• 38:31 – The Role of Breathwork vs. Psychedelics
• 45:31 – Navigating the Healing Journey
• 46:34 – Defining a Rich Life
• 48:14 – Integrating Music and AI in Healing

Key Takeaways:

• The journey of self-discovery often begins with disassociation.
• Awareness is the foundation of transformation and healing.
• Entrainment helps the nervous system reorganize and release stored stress.
• The healing movement can look different for everyone—there’s no single path.
• Profound peace often follows surrender and deep emotional release.
• True health goes far beyond symptom relief—it's about coherence and connection.
• The body holds deep wisdom and the capacity to self-regulate.
• Nutrition, breath, and emotional awareness are powerful healing resources.
• Humans are biologically and spiritually intertwined with nature.
• Vulnerability, love, and curiosity are essential ingredients in a rich life.

Episode Resources:

🔗 Learn more about Pete Byrne’s work: https://www.instagram.com/itspetebyrne/
🔗 Connect with Rich Adrian-Smith: www.richadriansmith.com