The One You Feed

Susan Piver, a Buddhist teacher and author known for her approachable take on meditation, discusses the transformative power of self-friendship in achieving joy. She emphasizes focusing on nurturing relationships instead of battling adversities. Piver shares practical steps for personal empowerment, such as creating positive environments and incorporating mindfulness into daily life. Through stories and Buddhist teachings, she highlights interconnectedness and the impact of small acts of kindness in overcoming overwhelm and fostering deeper connections.

Nickolas Butler, a novelist known for 'A 40 Year Kiss', delves into the profound journey of caregiving after becoming his father's legal guardian at just 20. He shares the emotional toll of this role over 23 years, exploring how it reshaped his identity and creative voice. The conversation also touches on the transformative power of storytelling, the significance of love through life's complexities, and personal reflections on grief and connection. Nick’s insights offer solace and wisdom for those navigating caregiving, loss, and the creative process.

Michelle Chalfant, a therapist and author of 'The Adult Chair', shares valuable insights on quieting the inner critic to unlock personal growth. She discusses why our emotional decision-making often stems from a teenage mindset. Listeners learn about the 'two wolves' metaphor for self-awareness and the importance of emotional triggers as opportunities for transformation. With practical techniques like the 'Three Chair Model', Chalfant guides us toward self-compassion, healthier relationships, and taking ownership of our realities for lasting change.

Lyanda Haupt, an award-winning naturalist and author, shares her transformative journey from divorce to self-discovery. She challenges conventional notions of hope and explores the complexities of personal change. The conversation highlights the impact of nature on our emotional states and the significance of 'earthing'—connecting with the earth to foster well-being. Haupt also discusses six hidden saboteurs that hinder progress and emphasizes the importance of community support in overcoming life's obstacles, illuminating a compassionate path toward growth.

Ross Ellenhorn, a therapist and author, dives deep into the often-unseen reasons behind our resistance to change. He highlights how small steps can feel overwhelming and explores the paradoxical 'fear of hope' that hinders progress. Listeners gain insight into the six saboteurs of self-control that derail intentions, stressing the importance of social support in overcoming challenges. By emphasizing incremental changes and self-compassion, Ross offers a refreshing perspective on personal transformation and the emotional complexities tied to growth.

Melody Wilding, an executive coach and author of Managing Up, shares her insights on creating change in challenging workplace cultures. She emphasizes the power of personal agency, urging listeners to navigate office politics with integrity. Wilding introduces practical strategies like power mapping and encourages conscious choices to foster collaborative environments. She also discusses overcoming self-sabotage and the importance of seeking constructive feedback to enhance professional relationships. Her relatable advice empowers individuals to thrive in their careers.

Jamie Wheal, Executive Director of the Flow Genome Project and author of 'Recapture the Rapture,' dives into the essence of 'radical hope' as a means to confront despair in today's fractured world. He critiques the superficial positivity often promoted in the face of serious crises, advocating instead for a resilient, realistic approach. Discussing the importance of community and meaningful connections, Wheal emphasizes navigating existential risks and reimagining cultural narratives to foster genuine hope amid societal challenges.

Elissa Epel, an expert in stress and aging from UCSF, discusses how stress accelerates the aging process by shortening telomeres, the protective caps on our DNA. She highlights the significant impact of lifestyle choices and nutrition on telomere health, advocating for a whole food diet to combat inflammation. Epel also explores the relationship between depression and cellular aging, providing strategies for reframing stress as a challenge. Mindfulness and social support are emphasized as vital tools for managing stress and promoting well-being.

In this discussion, Scott Barry Kaufman, a renowned author and psychologist, redefines our approach to pain and growth. He emphasizes shifting from a 'Why Me?' mindset to 'What Now?' to empower personal development. Kaufman dives into the dangers of black-and-white thinking and highlights the importance of acknowledging inner struggles as catalysts for growth. He underscores the significance of self-compassion while urging listeners to embrace their agency amidst adversity. This insightful conversation offers practical techniques for emotional regulation and reframing negative thoughts.

Victor Strecher, author and professor, shares his insights on purposeful living after personal loss. He discusses the difference between having a purpose and living purposefully, emphasizing how energy, nutrition, and mindfulness contribute to well-being. Strecher introduces practical methods like the headstone test for discovering one’s core values. The conversation touches on the universal accessibility of purpose, the impact of relationships on joy, and the importance of aligning actions with values, inviting listeners to reflect on their legacy.