Episode 837 - Kareem Abdul-Jabbar / Phil Stutz

In 'Coming Alive', Phil Stutz and Barry Michels guide readers toward a wellspring of positive energy known as the Life Force. The book introduces four vital tools to combat 'Part X', the inner enemy that derails progress and keeps individuals small and stuck. Drawing from their decades of psychotherapeutic practice, the authors offer a paradigm-shifting guide to achieving optimal mental health and spiritual well-being by identifying and defeating this inner adversary and harnessing the energy of the Life Force for creativity, renewal, and engagement.

This book provides an unprecedented view into the development of *Hamilton*, from its conception to its landmark opening night on Broadway. It includes the full libretto of the musical, photographs, interviews with key figures involved in the production, and over 200 footnotes by Lin-Manuel Miranda. The book also features contributions from Questlove, Stephen Sondheim, and President Obama, among others, and offers insights into the artistic process and the historical context of the musical.

In 'The Tools,' Phil Stutz and Barry Michels present a unique approach to therapy that focuses on immediate solutions rather than dwelling on the past. The book introduces five tools: The Reversal of Desire, Active Love, Inner Authority, Grateful Flow, and Jeopardy. Each tool is associated with a 'Higher Force' and is designed to help individuals face pain, break free from negative thoughts, and cultivate gratitude and willpower. The authors draw from their decades of psychotherapeutic practice and provide clear steps for using these tools to achieve mental health and spiritual well-being.

Andrew Mertha's "Brothers in Arms" provides a detailed account of Chinese aid to the Khmer Rouge during their rise to power and their subsequent rule in Cambodia. The book examines the nature and extent of Chinese support, the motivations behind it, and its impact on the Khmer Rouge's actions. Mertha analyzes the complex relationship between China and the Khmer Rouge, highlighting the strategic considerations and ideological factors involved. He explores the consequences of Chinese aid for Cambodia and the region. The book offers a crucial perspective on the international context of the Cambodian genocide.

In 'On the Shoulders of Giants,' Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Raymond Obstfeld delve into the Harlem Renaissance, a pivotal cultural, literary, and artistic movement from 1920 to 1940. The book highlights the significant contributions of figures such as W.E. B. Du Bois, Marcus Garvey, Zora Neale Hurston, Langston Hughes, Duke Ellington, and Louis Armstrong. Abdul-Jabbar shares his own experiences and how the Harlem Renaissance influenced his life, intertwining his passions for basketball and jazz with the rich history of the era.

Published in 1970, 'Fame and Obscurity' is an anthology of magazine features written by Gay Talese. The book includes in-depth profiles of various celebrities and individuals, offering a glimpse into their lives and the cultural context of the time. It is a classic example of New Journalism, characterized by Talese's meticulous and engaging writing style.

In 'Coach Wooden and Me,' Kareem Abdul-Jabbar recounts the inspirational story of his bond with Coach John Wooden, which began when Abdul-Jabbar was an 18-year-old high school basketball prospect. The book details how their relationship evolved from a history-making coach-player mentorship into a deep and genuine friendship that transcended sports. Abdul-Jabbar shares intimate details about Coach Wooden's influence on his life, including lessons from Wooden's 'Pyramid of Success,' coping with racism during the Civil Rights era, and the personal fulfillment he achieved under Wooden's guidance. The book is a tribute to the profound impact Coach Wooden had on Abdul-Jabbar's life, both on and off the court, and their friendship that lasted until Wooden's death in 2010.

In 'Mycroft Holmes,' Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Anna Waterhouse delve into the untold story of Mycroft Holmes, the enigmatic and intelligent brother of the famous detective Sherlock Holmes. The novel follows Mycroft as he navigates a complex web of intrigue and mystery in Trinidad and London, showcasing his unique skills and intellect. This book offers a fresh perspective on the Sherlockian universe while maintaining the spirit of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's original works.