The One You Feed

Cyndie Spiegel, author and coach known for her work on resilience and self-acceptance, shares her journey through loss and illness. She introduces 'micro joys'—the small pleasures that help us find hope amidst challenges. The discussion highlights the difference between fleeting happiness and enduring joy. Cyndie emphasizes mindfulness, gratitude, and the acceptance of all emotions as vital tools for healing. She also critiques societal pressures surrounding happiness, encouraging listeners to appreciate the simple joys in daily life.

In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Lisa Feldman Barrett, a neuroscientist and author renowned for her pioneering work on emotion, dives into the brain's predictive nature and how it constructs emotions. She reveals that emotions are not hardwired but can be reshaped through conscious effort. Fascinatingly, Barrett explains the profound impact bodily sensations have on our feelings, emphasizing the importance of interoception. Plus, she shares practical strategies like mindfulness to enhance emotional regulation and the vital link between physical health and our emotional well-being.

Ukeme Awakessien Jeter, the Mayor of Upper Arlington and author of 'Immigrant, How Immigrant Leadership Drives Business Success', shares her inspiring journey as an immigrant and Black woman. She discusses the importance of civic engagement and adaptability in predominantly white communities, revealing the unique strengths immigrants bring to leadership. Ukeme emphasizes reframing challenges as puzzles, fostering inclusion for children, and finding joy in busy lives through gratitude, inspiring listeners to embrace their own capacity for change.

Steven Shapiro and Nancy Shapiro, educators and co-creators of the 'Our Family Culture' system, dive into building a family culture that enhances emotional well-being and resilience. They discuss the importance of intentionality in shaping family dynamics and share practical strategies for identifying core values. The duo emphasizes the significance of a supportive environment, the challenges of parenting amidst societal pressures, and the concept of generational legacy, encouraging families to engage intentionally in creating strong bonds and meaningful connections.

Dr. Judith Joseph, a psychiatrist and author of 'High Functioning', delves into the often-misunderstood realm of high-functioning depression. She discusses how outward success can mask inner suffering, particularly focusing on anhedonia, the inability to feel joy. Judith emphasizes the importance of recognizing symptoms early and employing strategies for emotional expression and validation. The conversation also touches on the biopsychosocial model of mental health, the role of technology in well-being, and practical ways to reconnect with joy in daily life.

Peter Singer, a renowned moral philosopher and bioethics professor at Princeton, shares profound insights on the relationship between ethics and joy. He introduces the 'drowning child' thought experiment to highlight our moral duties towards distant suffering. Singer argues that ethical living brings fulfillment and joy, discussing the balance of altruism and personal happiness. Through topics like effective altruism and the role of joy in ethical choices, he emphasizes the importance of personal values in pursuing a life of happiness and purpose.

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.