About this episode
In this episode, Michael welcomes acclaimed singer, songwriter, and entertainer, Lira. Her music career—which spans 18 years and includes six studio albums, four live DVDs, an autobiography, a feature film, and numerous accolades including 11 South African Music Awards—has established Lira as the foremost female artist in South Africa and a formidable presence on the global music scene. She is the first South African influencer to formally collaborate with Bobbi Brown Cosmetics in the campaign "Bobbi x LIRA". In 2019, Mattel launched Africa's first Barbie doll, made in the likeness of Lira, to commemorate the brand's 60th anniversary. In April 2022, while walking back to her hotel in Germany, Lira had a stroke and was diagnosed with aphasia. In 2024, she made her public comeback. Today, Lira shares her remarkable recovery story and spiritual journey of discovering her inner voice and strength. Conversation highlights include: -Lira's journey from leaving her "safe job" as an accountant, cashing in her savings, and enduring a three-year grind until the breakout chart-topping debut album that affirmed her calling -Seeing music as a source of unity and hope while growing up during apartheid, and how conscious soul/R&B music from artists like Stevie Wonder shaped Lira's mission to uplift and inspire -Going from feeling fine to suddenly losing her ability to speak or remember how to find her way back to her hotel, and not being able to ask for help -Being diagnosed stroke-induced aphasia—the temporary loss of speaking, reading, and writing -Lira's ongoing recovery, learning how to talk again, and how her singing voice returned before her speech -Reframing her experience as a "friendly stroke"—the unexpected answer to her desire and need to take a break from the world to rest, allowing her to tune into her body, her Higher Self, and discover her inner voice -Saying "Yes" to life, to creative projects, and a renewed willingness to meet life's invitations, plus Lira's daily rituals for physical fitness, spiritual hygiene, and nervous-system care -Widening her identity beyond career and how being quiet reveals presence, purpose, and real prosperity – and more! Finally, Michael leads a meditation on choosing joy now. 🪷 Follow Lira across social media and at her website, https://www.misslira.com/ . ✍️ Love Take Back Your Mind? This podcast grows through your support. If you've been inspired by an episode, we'd love to hear from you! Consider leaving a 5-star review or drop a comment. It helps others join this journey of growth and connection. 🎧 Never miss an episode! Be sure to Subscribe or Follow the show and turn on notifications so you're the first to know when new episodes drop every Wednesday and Friday. ✨ What's your Life Question? Have questions about your relationships, finances, life purpose, or how to understand world events through a spiritual lens? Submit your Life Question to podcast@michaelbeckwith.com — your question could be featured in an upcoming episode to inspire others on their journey! 🌐 Stay connected with Michael: Visit https://michaelbeckwith.com/ and sign up to receive occasional inspiration and updates—and as a gift, you'll receive his powerful guided meditation, "Raise Your Vibration and Be Untouchable." Explore even more at https://agapelive.com/ . 📱 Follow Michael on social media for daily wisdom: Facebook: @Michael.B.Beckwith https://www.facebook.com/Michael.B.Beckwith IG: @michaelbbeckwith https://www.instagram.com/michaelbbeckwith/ TikTok: @officialmichaelbeckwith https://www.tiktok.com/@officialmichaelbeckwith YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqMWuqEKXLY4m60gNDsw61w 🌟 Support the podcast by supporting Agape! Take Back Your Mind is brought to you by more than just great conversations—it's powered by purpose! Our primary sponsor is the Agape International Spiritual Center. Founded in 1986, Agape is committed to individual transformation and to being a beneficial presence on the planet. Discover more here: https://agapelive.com/ . If this show uplifts your spirit, please help us keep it going: 💖 Donate at https://agapelive.com/ and mention "podcast" 📱 Or text GIVE to 424-321-6243 with "podcast" in the message Your generosity helps us to keep sharing meaningful conversations that uplift and transform! Our secondary sponsor is NutriRise, the makers of Michael's AdaptoZen high-vibe nutrition and supplement line, designed to nourish your body temple from the inside out. Check them out here: https://nutririse.com/collections/adaptozen . 🌿