Pulling The Thread with Elise Loehnen

In this solo episode, I share some things that are on my mind right now, including: An experience I had revisiting my 22-year-old self. A powerful takeaway from a workshop on wanting and desire. And how I’m thinking about personal stories, memoir, and bridges to bigger collective stories. I also answer some listener questions (thank you, and please keep them coming).See more about this episode on my Substack. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Clara Bingham, an award-winning journalist and author of "The Movement," shares powerful narratives from her oral history on second-wave feminism. She discusses the highs and lows of the women’s rights struggle from 1963 to 1973, emphasizing the impact of key figures like Betty Friedan and the challenges within the feminist movement. Bingham highlights the importance of abortion rights and underground networks, as well as trailblazers like Shirley Chisholm, who inspired future generations. It's a poignant exploration of women's empowerment and activism.

Renowned anthropologist Sarah Blaffer Hrdy, professor emerita at UC Davis, discusses her groundbreaking concept of the 'allomother'—the idea that shared caregiving has shaped human evolution. She explores how cooperative breeding enhances child development and the pivotal role of diverse caregivers. Hrdy also addresses the cultural significance of male involvement in caregiving and its impact on social dynamics and gender roles. Her insights challenge traditional views on parenting, emphasizing collective nurturing as essential for healthier communities.

Tim Shriver engages with fascinating guests who reveal how they've turned pain into purpose through spiritual practices. Min Jin Lee discusses creating complex characters for transformation, while Michael Phelps shares insights on mental health and inner life in competition. Rainn Wilson emphasizes believing in something greater to combat overwhelming chaos. The podcast touches on the interplay between art, spirituality, and the challenges fame brings to mental well-being. Ultimately, it inspires listeners to cherish everyday moments of joy and connection.

Jeffrey Kripal, J. Newton Rayzor Chair in Philosophy and Religious Thought at Rice University, returns for a thought-provoking conversation. He discusses his latest book, exploring unexplainable phenomena like UFOs and time travel. Kripal emphasizes the need for an open-minded approach to extraordinary experiences and how trauma can lead to profound insights. The discussion bridges science and humanities, diving into narratives of consciousness and humor's role in our understanding of reality.

Edith Eva Eger, a Holocaust survivor and esteemed psychologist, discusses her incredible journey from trauma to empowerment. Joined by her grandson Jordan Engler, they explore the importance of revisiting the past to foster growth. Edith's recent memoir tailored for younger readers, 'The Ballerina of Auschwitz,' is a key topic. The duo delves into resilience, the power of forgiveness, and the duality of human nature. With personal anecdotes, they inspire listeners to embrace life's challenges and celebrate transformation.

Join Dr. James Doty, a neurosurgeon and neuroscientist from Stanford specializing in compassion, as he shares his inspiring journey from a chaotic childhood to mindfulness. He reflects on a life-changing encounter with a mentor at a magic shop that sparked his interest in self-awareness. The conversation explores how mindfulness can help manage trauma, the intersection of compassion and AI in mental health, and the true essence of manifestation through neuroscience. Doty emphasizes the importance of connection and emotional well-being for personal growth.

Dr. Sarah Lewis, the John L. Loeb Associate Professor of Humanities at Harvard, discusses her groundbreaking work on race and creativity. She explores the origins of the term ‘Caucasian’ and how it shapes modern perceptions of identity. Lewis emphasizes the role of failure and playfulness in the creative process, which is crucial for mastering one’s craft. The conversation also delves into the historical roots of whiteness, the importance of reevaluating narratives, and the complex interplay of race, beauty, and societal representation.

James Hollis, a Jungian analyst and author of 19 books, dives deep into the importance of accountability and personal growth. He discusses the concept of the 'shadow' in human psychology, emphasizing how understanding our inner struggles can lead to healing, particularly for men navigating societal expectations. Hollis highlights the emotional disconnection many face, urging listeners to reflect on their true selves and seek fulfillment beyond external pressures. He also explores the complexities of parenting, emotional struggles, and the need for deeper connections in today's world.

Dr. Jamil Maki, a PhD researcher in cultural cynicism, reveals how society glamorizes cynics, mistaking their skepticism for wisdom. He discusses research showing that cynicism can cloud judgment, leading to poor assessments of trustworthiness. The conversation highlights the detrimental effects of cynicism on relationships and urges a shift towards empathy and trust. Jamil also emphasizes the importance of moving beyond cynicism to foster open dialogues, especially amid political divides, and the power of compassionate communication.