Today we’re excited to be connecting with Nathaniel Allenby again. If you haven’t already, we suggest you check out our prior conversation with them here.
Nathaniel, always such a pleasure connecting with you and thank you for sharing your stories, insights and inspiring messages with our community. We’re looking forward to getting the download and what you have been up to since our last interview, but first can you briefly introduce yourself to folks who might have missed the prior conversation.
Nathaniel Allenby is a leader, visionary, entrepreneur, performance & visual artist, entertainer, motivational speaker, writer, international traveler, and father. He has utilized his leadership skills and dedication to service to others to educate, uplift, inspire, and motivate everyone he encounters. Through the creation of his Circus entertainment company: Cirque Quirk, he has created opportunities and generated revenue for his community, hiring high-quality artists to do what they love. He lived on a bicycle from 2006-2011, pedaling over 28,000 miles across 10 countries and 30 states, living on nearly no money. This incredible adventure is the subject of his first published book: The Cycle of Kindness. His love for travel, adventure, and living life to the fullest has brought him to 5 continents, and 18 countries, where he has competed on reality television, and brought joy and laughter to impoverished and natural-disaster-stricken areas of the world; he is currently writing and publishing books about his incredible experiences. These travels inspired his second company: Allenby Art, to showcase his artwork and landscape photography. His lifelong goal is to grow into the best possible version of himself. Nathaniel is currently raising his two daughters, Aurora and Ivy, with his wife Alexandra, in San Diego, California, where he has lived for 14 years. His dream is to unite with like-minded dreamers to bring widespread healing to people worldwide and realize a vision of Peace on Earth, within which humans are able to evolve and advance our civilization and culture for the betterment of all.
Awesome, so we reached out because we wanted to hear all about what you have been up to since we last connected.
Since we last spoke, so much has evolved in both my professional and personal life! One of the biggest updates is the launch of my second company, Allenby Arts. This venture is all about expanding my creative horizons and providing a platform for both emerging and established artists to showcase their work. It’s a company rooted in the belief that art, in all its forms, has the power to bring people together, challenge perceptions, and inspire change. I’ve been deeply involved in curating exhibitions and collaborations with artists who share this vision, which has been incredibly fulfilling. The opportunity to work with such talented individuals, while also helping to bring their stories and creations to a wider audience, has been one of the highlights of this journey.
In addition to Allenby Arts, I’m also excited to share that I’ve published my first book, The Cycle of Kindness. This book is a reflection of my personal journey and the lessons I’ve learned along the way about the power of kindness in building stronger communities and personal growth. It’s a mix of stories, reflections, and practical advice on how to embrace kindness as a daily practice, not just in moments of ease but especially during challenging times. Writing this book was both a cathartic and transformative experience, and seeing it out in the world, touching readers and sparking conversations about kindness, has been nothing short of humbling.
Of course, there have been challenges as well. Balancing the growth of two companies while continuing to evolve Cirque Quirk has required a lot of time management and flexibility. But these experiences have reinforced my belief in the power of perseverance, adaptability, and surrounding yourself with a supportive community. Moving forward, I’m incredibly excited to continue building Allenby Arts, expand its reach, and keep spreading the message of kindness through my writing and performances. It’s been a thrilling, ever-evolving chapter, and I’m grateful for every step of the journey.
We have now arrived at one of our favorite parts of the interview – the lightning round. We’ll ask you a few quick questions to give us all some fun insights about you.
- Favorite Movie: I love Fight Club because of its raw, unapologetic exploration of identity, consumerism, and societal expectations. The philosophical undertones, along with the complex characters and iconic twists, make it a movie that challenges the viewer to think deeply about the constructs of modern life and masculinity. It’s not just a film—it’s a commentary on the human psyche and the battle we all face within ourselves.
- Favorite Book: This book is a powerful exploration of consciousness and human behavior. Power vs Force delves into how different levels of human consciousness influence our actions and the world around us. I appreciate its deep dive into the spiritual and psychological aspects of decision-making. It reshaped how I think about personal power, morality, and the invisible forces that govern society. It’s a fascinating read for anyone interested in understanding the energy behind actions and decisions.
- Favorite TV Show: The Expanse is a science fiction masterpiece that blends gripping storytelling with complex political intrigue. The world-building is top-notch, and the show tackles important social issues while exploring human nature through the lens of interplanetary politics. I love the way it challenges the notion of humanity’s future in space while maintaining a grounded sense of realism, especially in the context of resources, power, and survival. It’s a series that feels not only futuristic but very relevant to today’s political and environmental concerns.
- Favorite Band or Artist: Thomas Bergersen is a composer who crafts emotionally powerful music, and his work as part of Two Steps from Hell has inspired me deeply. His orchestral and cinematic scores evoke feelings of strength, adventure, and transcendence. I find his music to be motivating and uplifting, whether I’m working, reflecting, or simply enjoying some downtime. The epic nature of his compositions aligns with my own personal aspirations for greatness.
- Sweet or Savory: I’ve always had a soft spot for sweet treats, and Tillamook Ice Cream takes the cake (or cone)! Their flavors are incredibly rich and creamy, and they use high-quality ingredients. There’s something nostalgic about indulging in a scoop of Tillamook that transports me back to childhood summers. It’s my go-to when I’m craving something indulgent and comforting, and a little scoop of happiness.
- Mountains or Beach: The mountains call to me for their serenity, challenge, and the awe-inspiring beauty they offer. I’ve always been drawn to the idea of hiking through towering peaks and remote landscapes. I’m especially excited about trekking the Annapurna Circuit and Mount Kailash, places that are not only physically challenging but are spiritually significant. The Dolomites also represent the perfect combination of rugged terrain and stunning vistas, making the mountains my place of reflection and adventure.
- Favorite Sport (to watch): The Olympics are the pinnacle of human athleticism, and there’s something deeply inspiring about watching the world’s finest athletes come together to showcase their abilities. I love the wide range of sports that come together in the Olympics, and there’s always a special energy that makes watching it a shared global experience. Whether it’s the drama of track and field or the intensity of gymnastics, the Olympic Games embody the peak of human achievement.
- Favorite Sport (to play): Soccer has been a lifelong passion of mine. I’ve played it since childhood and appreciate the combination of teamwork, strategy, and physical fitness it requires. It’s a sport that demands mental and physical agility, and I love the fluidity and pace of the game. Whether it’s a friendly match or a competitive one, soccer always brings out my competitive side and my love for collaboration with teammates.
- Did you play sports growing up (if so which ones): Yes, Soccer and Track, the latter mostly to keep in shape in the off-season, and because I was good at it.
- As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up: Growing up, I was fascinated by the idea of leadership and change. I thought becoming President would be a powerful way to influence the country and the world for the better. Over time, my focus shifted to other forms of leadership, but that desire to create positive change and serve others remains central to my life’s work.
- French Fries or Onion Rings: French fries are a classic comfort food, and they’re gluten-free (which is a big plus for me). There’s something about a perfectly crispy fry, especially when dipped in a good sauce, that satisfies a craving like nothing else. While onion rings are tasty, fries are my go-to.
- Chuck Rhodes or Bobby Axelrod: Chuck Rhodes represents complexity, power, and a sense of moral struggle that I find fascinating. Plus, Paul Giamatti is a fantastic actor who brings so much depth to the role. I enjoy watching him navigate the political and personal battles he faces in Billions, and his portrayal adds a level of gravity that keeps me hooked.
- Favorite Cartoon growing up: Rocco’s Modern Life was quirky, funny, and often a bit surreal—perfect for a kid with an overactive imagination. The humor was a mix of the absurd and the relatable, which made it stand out from other cartoons. It’s one of those shows that I can still watch today and laugh just as much as I did when I was younger.
- Favorite Childhood movie: The Land Before Time was a childhood favorite because of its heartwarming story, strong emotional undertones, and beautiful animation. It’s a timeless tale about friendship, survival, and perseverance, and it still resonates with me today. The involvement of Steven Spielberg and George Lucas only adds to its magic, as it was a product of two creative minds that captured the essence of childhood wonder. I watched it every time I was sick and now I show it to my daughter!
- Favorite Breakfast Food: There’s nothing better than a hearty breakfast to start the day. This combination has the perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbs to fuel my day. I love the crispy texture of the hash browns, the savory flavor of the eggs, and the richness of the avocado. Throw in some crispy bacon, and you’ve got a breakfast that checks all the boxes for me!
What do you want people to remember about you and your brand? What are some of things that you feel are most important, unique, special, etc?
At the core of my work, both personally and professionally, is the belief that we each have the power to make the world a better place. When people think of me or my brands, I hope they remember the legacy of kindness, authenticity, and positive impact that I strive to leave behind. My mission has always been to create work that not only entertains but also inspires others to act with compassion, integrity, and a sense of responsibility toward their community and the world.
I want my brands—whether it’s Cirque Quirk, Allenby Arts, or even my written work like The Cycle of Kindness—to be remembered as forces for good. The goal isn’t just about success or growth; it’s about using these platforms to make a meaningful difference. Whether through the arts, entertainment, or written word, I hope people walk away from my work feeling uplifted, more connected to others, and motivated to contribute positively to their own communities.
What sets me apart is the deep commitment to creating something that lasts. I don’t just want to make art or build businesses—I want to build a legacy of purpose. A legacy that reflects the values of kindness, resilience, and the belief that, as individuals and as a collective, we can leave the world better than we found it. My ultimate goal is for the work I do to inspire others to carry that torch forward, creating a ripple effect of positive change that lasts for generations to come.
