Ever felt like you’re stuck in a version of your life that doesn’t quite fit? Like you’re carrying beliefs, routines, or expectations that were handed to you, but never actually yours? I sat down with my friend, mentor, and mindshift coach Peter Kolat, also known as Polish Peter, to explore how to reconnect with your authentic self and stop living on autopilot.

This conversation got personal. Peter’s story of growing up in communist Poland and eventually finding his voice in America is powerful and full of real-life wisdom. It’s about transformation, but not the “just think positive” kind. We’re talking about true mindshifts that help you let go of the noise and finally come home to yourself.

From Communist Poland to Coaching: Peter’s Authentic Self Journey

Peter grew up in a 14×14 apartment, sharing a bathroom down the hall with multiple families. When his mother moved to the U.S. to seek opportunity, Peter was raised by relatives for six years before moving to America at 14, with no English and a suitcase in hand.

That kind of life shift forces you to learn fast. And not just language. Peter eventually became an architect, but it was through his own personal struggles, including a divorce and depression, that he found his true calling: helping others awaken to their authentic self.

Today, Peter is a coach, author, and speaker, guiding people through the uncomfortable but transformative work of letting go of who they were told to be and becoming who they actually are.

What Does It Really Mean to Reconnect with Your Authentic Self?

Reclaiming your authentic self isn’t about perfection or suddenly becoming “better.” It’s about peeling back the layers: cultural expectations, childhood programming, unprocessed grief, people-pleasing, trauma, and asking:

Who was I before the world told me who to be?

Peter calls this the awakening phase. It’s often triggered by burnout, misalignment, or just the sense that “something’s off.” The goal isn’t to create a new you. It’s to come back to your true you.

Why “Mindset” Might Be Keeping You Stuck

One of the most powerful nuggets Peter dropped in this episode was a reframe of the word “mindset.”

“Mindset implies that your mind is set. But transformation requires movement, growth and flexibility.”

Peter Kolat

He prefers the term mindshift because real change isn’t about locking in a new way of thinking and staying there. It’s about continuously shifting your frame of reference, questioning old stories, and creating space for new, empowering beliefs to take root.

Practical Ways to Reconnect with Your Authentic Self

Peter’s work isn’t just theoretical, it’s deeply practical. If you’re ready to start shifting into alignment, here are five powerful tips to help you uncover your authentic self:

1. Write a Vision You Can Feel

Not just what you want, but how it will feel, smell, taste, and sound when you’re living it. Your vision should spark something in your body and spirit.

2. Question the Stories in Your Head

Pay attention to the limiting phrases you repeat: “I could never do that.” “That’s just how life is.” Then ask: Who taught me that? And is it really true?

3. Shift Your Language

Instead of “I’m stuck,” try “I’m learning how to move forward.” Language has power. Use it to plant seeds of possibility, not defeat.

4. Let Yourself Feel

Peter reminded me how important it is to let the emotions surface, even the ugly ones. At one of our retreats, I cried for an hour straight. It cracked something open. Healing needs room to breathe.

5. Find Safe Community

Don’t do this work alone. Whether it’s a coach, retreat group, or friend who gets it, your authentic self thrives in connection, not isolation.

Life Happens For You, Not To You

If you take one thing from Peter’s journey, let it be this: Life isn’t punishing you. It’s inviting you. Every challenge is an invitation to shift your perspective and realign with your purpose.

That’s how Peter created a life that actually fits and how he teaches others to do the same. He doesn’t hand you a blueprint. He helps you build your own, based on your truth.

Because the truth is: you already know who you are. You’ve just been carrying too much noise to hear it clearly.

Your Authentic Self is Worth the Work

This work isn’t always easy. It requires emotional honesty, time, patience, and sometimes a few breakdowns before breakthroughs. But the reward? A life that feels like yours. A home inside yourself that feels safe, grounded, and free.

So if you’ve been wondering where your spark went—or feeling like you’re performing your life instead of living it—this is your nudge. Start small. Get curious. Write your vision. Shift one thought. Say the hard truth. Ask for help.

And know that you’re not alone.

Peter Kolat’s Bio:

Peter Kolat is not your average motivational rah-rah. He’s a transformational powerhouse who’s been called the “Polish Tony” by his students, but don’t worry, he’s shorter and way funnier.

After landing in America at 14 with zero English and one suitcase (true story), he went on to become a Top 100 Most Influential People Online (according to Fast Company magazine), is a 2-time Transformational Coach of the Year, co-host of the Lifeonaire Show, and the author of the mind-bending new book “The Authentic Self Rebirth- A Simple, Proven Framework to Break Free and Become Who You’re Meant to Be.” — a 4D interactive journey that’s flipping the personal development world on its head.

He’s spoken on over 100 stages, helped 6- and 7-figure entrepreneurs across 16 industries, and most importantly, he knows how to break through the BS stories holding you back, in less time than it takes to microwave your leftover pierogi.

Get ready to shift your mind, shake up your beliefs, and laugh a little too hard along the way…

Polish Peter Kolat is the transformational coach who’ll help you meet the real you (yes, the one that’s been waiting to be reborn).

Connect with Peter:

• Website: myauthenticrebirth.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/authenticselfrebirth
• Peter Kolat’s new Book: Authentic Self Rebirth
• Lifeonaire Podcast: lifeonaire.com/podcast

More Resources:

• Take a peek at my Jen Recommends list to see more of my favorite products.
• Grab my FREE Home Wellness Checklist here for more tips.
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Disclaimer: This podcast is for general information purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, or other professional health care services. The statements and views expressed are not medical advice and are not meant to replace the advice of your medical doctor. This podcast, including Jen Heller and her guests, disclaims any responsibility and any adverse effects you may experience from the specific use of the information contained herein. The opinions of guests are their own and this podcast does not endorse or accept responsibility for the statements made by guests. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you think you have a medical condition, consult your licensed physician.