S1E7: Obligation VS Love: Nick Sabine on Identity, Reinvention, and Self-Leadership

Written By Hannah Godfrey

Show Notes:

Nick Sabine built one of the most beloved platforms in electronic music. Then he asked himself one question that changed everything: WHO AM I WITHOUT IT?

In this episode, Hannah is joined by Nick Sabine — self-leadership coach, co-founder of Resident Advisor (RA), and the person Hannah credits with changing the course of her life. This conversation is deeply personal. Nick was Hannah's coach before he was her podcast guest, and that history makes for one of the most honest, emotionally rich episodes yet.

They explore what it truly means to lead yourself — and why, for so many high achievers, the life that looks like success on the outside is quietly built on obligation, fear, and an identity that was never really theirs to begin with.

About Nick Sabine

Nick Sabine is a self-leadership coach working with founders, executives, creatives, and leaders navigating major life and career transitions. He is the co-founder of Resident Advisor (RA), the globally renowned electronic music platform he built from $800 and a shared passion for music into one of the most beloved cultural institutions in the world. After stepping back from his day-to-day role at RA, Nick underwent his own profound reinvention — and now helps others do the same.

Episode Chapters

00:00 The Journey Begins: From Music to Transformation

02:40 Finding Belonging: The Role of Music in Identity

05:35 Pride and Reflection: Moments of Achievement

08:06 The Shift: Stepping Away from RA

10:04 The Question of Identity: Who Am I Without RA?

12:35 Love vs. Obligation: A Transformative Realization

15:22 The Power of Choice: Meeting Moments with Love

18:17 The Journey to Coaching: Discovering a New Path

21:06 Embracing Boredom: The Path to Self-Discovery

23:42 Intuition and Courage: Listening to Inner Guidance

26:26 The Impact of Coaching: Leading from Within

32:50 The Impact of Boredom on Self-Discovery

35:06 Navigating Identity and Coping Mechanisms

38:21 The Journey of Self-Understanding

41:27 Facing Crossroads and Seeking Support

43:27 Living in Integrity and Self-Reflection

46:24 The Power of Love and Trust in Coaching

59:12 Defining True Wellbeing

I Am Pausing with Hannah Godfrey is a podcast featuring real conversations about the science of rest, the cost of burnout, and the truth about sustainable success.

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S1E6: The Power of Breathwork and Embodiment with Steven Ebbers: Transforming Mental Health