In this heartfelt episode of the mi365 Podcast, Pete Cohen brings together a circle of lifelong friends — Billy Schwer, Andy Selling, and Michelle Humphrey — for an open and deeply human conversation about friendship, connection, and the importance of being in each other's corner.

Alongside them is Toby, Michelle's 18-year-old son, standing at the beginning of his adult journey, surrounded by people who genuinely want to see him thrive.

Together, they explore how friendships evolve over time, the balance between independence and connection, and the healing power of truly being seen, heard, and supported.

In This Episode

💬 The Real Meaning of Friendship: Why true friends don't just celebrate you — they call you out, lift you up, and stand beside you through it all.
🧠 The Relationship With Yourself: What it means to be your own best friend, and how self-acceptance and forgiveness shape every other relationship.
🥊 Resilience and Reinvention: Former World Champion Billy Schwer shares his journey of failure, faith, and finding purpose beyond boxing.
💚 Listening Without Fixing: From Billy's work with The Samaritans to Michelle's art therapy practice, the group unpacks the art of listening and holding space.
🪞 Honest Reflection: Pete opens up about his past — learning to show up more for the people who matter, including himself.
🧩 Generations in Conversation: Toby shares his perspective as a young adult navigating uncertainty, purpose, and belonging in the digital age.
💡 Technology and Connection: A real debate about whether phones are pulling us apart — or keeping us connected in new ways.
🕊️ The Power of Presence: From family care to lifelong bonds, the episode reminds us that sometimes friendship is simply being there.

Key Quotes

"The best things in life are free — and friendship is one of them." — Billy Schwer "You can't have a deep friendship without vulnerability." — Michelle Humphrey "Maybe the most important relationship you'll ever have is the one with yourself." — Pete Cohen "Companionship is underrated — just being with someone, comfortably, in silence." — Andy Selling

Guests

Billy Schwer – Former World Champion Boxer, Mindset Coach, and Samaritan volunteer. https://billyschwer.com/
Andy Sellins – Educator, sportsman, and lifelong friend.
Michelle Humphrey – Art Psychotherapist working in the NHS and private practice.
Toby – 18-year-old apprentice and aspiring MMA fighter, exploring purpose and identity.
Rupert – Longtime friend and deep thinker, bringing insight from Jungian psychology.

Themes We Explore

Friendship and authenticity
Mental health and emotional awareness
Vulnerability and connection
Generational wisdom
Grief, growth, and transformation
The art of listening
The courage to show up for others

Takeaway Message

Friendship is life's heartbeat. It's not about how often you talk — it's about knowing someone's in your corner when it really matters. This episode is a reminder to pause, reach out, and tell the people you love that you appreciate them.