A Solstice Celebration for 2024 w/ Manda Scott and Nathalie Nahai
Dec 21, 2024
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Manda Scott, a prolific novelist and host of Accidental Gods, and Nathalie Nahai, a behavior science advisor and author, celebrate the winter solstice by reflecting on the past year and envisioning the future. They discuss navigating the intersection of AI and eco-socialism, revealing ethical concerns and the need for systemic change. The conversation also dives into emotional resilience and collective healing, emphasizing self-exploration. With insights into anti-capitalist strategies, they highlight the importance of community connections for a more equitable future.
The new course on regenerative livelihoods aims to help individuals navigate transitions and build meaningful work through community engagement.
Discussions around trauma culture highlight the necessity of shifting toward interconnectedness to foster healing and societal change.
The podcast emphasizes the ethical implications of technology, advocating for intentional practices in AI development to prioritize human well-being.
Deep dives
Cultivating a Regenerative Livelihood
A new course on cultivating a regenerative livelihood will be available from January to April 2025, designed to help individuals navigate livelihood transitions and find meaningful work. The course emphasizes community building and aims to integrate holistic economic theories into practical applications, focusing on post-capitalist systems change. It will include live sessions and engaging materials, connecting ideas from the podcast to real-life experiences. Participants can register using a special discount code for a significant savings opportunity.
Reflections on Supremacy and Separation
In addressing societal challenges, a deeper examination of various forms of supremacy and the notion of separability is discussed. The idea is presented that at the core of our struggles lies the act of remembering our connection to the web of life. This reflection draws upon Joanna Macy's concept of 'The Work That Reconnects' to illustrate a journey towards realizing our inherent interconnectedness. Recognizing this separation is vital for initiating transformation and healing societal divides.
Themes in Podcasting and Community Engagement
The camaraderie between three podcast hosts offers unique insights into their individual experiences and the overarching themes of their work. From examining geopolitical structures to focusing on societal change, each host shares highlights and actionable strategies from their podcasting year. Engaging with topics such as imperialism and the capitalist system serves to elevate public discourse around these pivotal issues. The collaborative effort and shared goals reinforce the importance of community in shaping the conversations around these topics.
Technological Influence on Society
The rising influence of technology, particularly artificial intelligence, raises significant ethical and philosophical questions regarding personal agency and societal values. Concerns regarding trust, bias, and decision-making processes embedded within AI systems reflect the urgency for deeper ethical considerations in tech development. Podcast discussions emphasize the need for intentionality in how AI is deployed, ensuring it aligns with human well-being rather than mere efficiency or profit motives. Acknowledging these implications invites conversations about our relationship with technology and its impact on the living world.
The Importance of Consciousness and Value Systems
An exploration of how trauma culture impacts human interactions reveals a vital need for conscious evolution toward a more cohesive society. The narrative reflects on the importance of shifting from an individualistic perspective to one that emphasizes interconnectedness and shared responsibility. Healing personal and collective trauma through cultural practices can develop a new value system that fosters compassion and understanding within communities. There is a recognition that the transformation necessary for societal change begins within ourselves and influences the broader social landscape.
Practices for Sustaining Hope and Connection
Amidst the complexities of today's world, practices to sustain connection, hope, and well-being are highlighted. Techniques like meditation and community engagement play a crucial role in maintaining equilibrium and fostering resilience against external pressures. The idea of recognizing and embracing beauty in daily life can inspire a return to joy and groundedness, which in turn can break cycles of isolation and despair. The importance of community and connections to nature are framed as essential elements in the journey toward a shared and thriving future.
Happy Solstice! In this annual tradition, Della is joined by two fellow podcast hosts to reflect on the past year and set some intentions for the year ahead.
Manda Scott is a novelist, smallholder, and host of the podcast Accidental Gods, which showcases individuals and organizations at the emerging edge of our world to set the foundation for a future we’d be proud to leave to the generations that come after us. Manda’s latest novel, Any Human Power, is out now and available here.
Nathalie Nahai is a behavior science advisor, author and host of the podcast The Hive, which focuses on psychology, technology, and human behavior. Nathalie is the author of Webs Of Influence: The Psychology of Online Persuasion and is also the founder of Flourishing Futures Salon, a project that offers curated gastronomical gatherings that explore how we can thrive in times of turbulence and change.
One of Della’s offerings in the new year is a course she designed about how to cultivate regenerative livelihoods. She created this course with insights that she has found most helpful in bringing Upstream theories and ideas into people’s lives as a Right Livelihood coach. Whether you are in a livelihood transition, want to be in community with others trying to find meaningful work, or you just want to know more about work as a vehicle for post capitalist systems change, this course is a great fit. It includes live sessions, engaging module materials and activities including Upstream episodes, and a lively discussion forum to bring the material to life. Here is the link to learn more and register and use "UPSTREAM25" for a special 25% off coupon.
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