Episode #48: Dr. Aziz Gazipura, Author of Not Nice
A Conversation on Transformation, Vulnerability & Motivation
Episode Intro
In this episode of the Miles Ahead Podcast, Miles sits down with Dr. Aziz Gazipura; clinical psychologist, speaker, and author of Not Nice: Stop People-Pleasing, Staying Silent, and Feeling Guilty…And Start Speaking Up, Saying No, Asking Boldly, and Unapologetically Being Yourself to explore the deeper psychology of transformation, self-confidence, and what really holds people back from authentic action.
Dr. Aziz and Miles delve into the ways people seek external validation, how cultural norms shape self-perception, and why traditional metrics of success often fail to address emotional freedom. The conversation covers the difference between motivation that lasts and motivation that fizzles, the real obstacles to personal change, and why vulnerability isn’t a weakness, it’s a strength.
This episode will resonate with anyone who’s struggled with people-pleasing, authenticity, self-trust, or the internal battles that keep us from choosing ourselves first.
Key Moments
00:00 — Introduction to Dr. Aziz Gazipura & Not Nice
Dr. Aziz shares his background and what inspired him to write Not Nice.
03:25 — What “Nice” Really Means
A reframing of people-pleasing as a strategy rooted in fear, not kindness.
07:50 — Why Motivation Fails
Exploring the difference between emotion-driven motivation and identity-driven change.
13:10 — External Validation & Its Costs
How seeking approval undermines authenticity and long-term personal growth.
18:45 — Fear, Shame, & Behavioral Change
Why fear shows up in the body and how shame reinforces self-limiting patterns.
24:30 — Taking Radical Responsibility
Talking about what it means to choose yourself first without guilt.
29:55 — Vulnerability as Strength
Why vulnerability isn’t weakness and how it accelerates growth.
35:15 — Practical Tools for Authentic Action
Specific strategies for creating sustainable change in relationships, work, and self-talk.
40:50 — Overcoming Resistance
How internal resistance shows up as procrastination, distraction, or self-doubt.
45:00 — Final Reflections on Freedom & Confidence
Closing thoughts on what it truly takes to live a life guided by personal conviction instead of external approval.
How to Connect with Dr. Aziz Gazipura
Book — Not Nice: available at major booksellers (Amazon, Barnes & Noble, etc.)
Instagram: @drazzizconfidencecoach
Work With Me
If this conversation resonated, especially themes around people-pleasing, self-trust, motivation, vulnerability, or confidence, my counseling and coaching services are designed to help you navigate these exact growth challenges.
I support clients in:
Building authentic confidence
Overcoming anxiety and self-doubt
Rewiring motivation that lasts
Turning vulnerability into strength
Developing healthy boundaries
Explore my counseling and coaching or schedule your free 15 minute consult here.