The One You Feed

Ethan Kross, an award-winning professor and director of the Emotion and Self-Control Laboratory at the University of Michigan, shares insights on managing internal chatter. He discusses the benefits of distant self-talk for resilience and the surprising role of nature in reducing negative emotions. Kross explains techniques like mental time travel and expressive writing to navigate stress and enhance self-reflection. He emphasizes mindfulness and environmental cues as tools to tame emotional reactivity, fostering a more balanced inner dialogue.

Dr. Julie Holland, a psychiatrist and author specializing in psychopharmacology, shares fascinating insights about brain chemistry and meaningful human connections. She discusses the healing potential of MDMA for PTSD and how psychedelics can transform addiction treatment. Technology's impact on mental health is scrutinized, emphasizing the need for authentic relationships. Listeners will learn about the roles of oxytocin and vasopressin in bonding and the importance of community engagement for emotional wellness. A thought-provoking exploration into the intersection of mental health and modern connectivity!

In this engaging discussion, Mariana Alessandri, an Associate Professor of Philosophy and author of "Night Vision," shares her insights on navigating dark moods. She emphasizes the need to embrace difficult emotions without feeling broken and critiques societal pressures to maintain positivity. Listeners learn about the impact of labeling mental health and explore the integration of conflicting feelings. Alessandri encourages self-compassion and presents practical strategies for managing anxiety, promoting a deeper connection between emotions and personal growth.

In this engaging conversation, Natalie Goldberg, a renowned author and speaker celebrated for merging writing with Zen practice, shares her insights on unlocking creativity. She discusses how mindfulness enhances writing and explores the transformative power of silent retreats. The impact of the pandemic on creative processes is examined, alongside practical ways to integrate Zen principles into daily life. Goldberg also reflects on the duality of emotions in writing and the importance of community support for nurturing creativity.

Marisa Franco, a psychologist and author of the New York Times bestseller "Platonic," discusses how to overcome loneliness through the power of platonic friendships. She emphasizes the often-overlooked importance of these connections for emotional well-being and personal growth. The conversation delves into the history of platonic love and its transformative impact on loneliness. Franco shares strategies for fostering meaningful adult friendships, addressing attachment styles, and combating the societal stigma around loneliness, highlighting that connection is vital for a fulfilling life.

Joe Oestreich, an author and member of the band Watershed, and fellow bandmate Colin Gawel share heartfelt insights on their long-lasting friendship and musical journey. They discuss the joy of creating music on their own terms and the importance of sustaining creativity amidst life's challenges. The duo reflects on overcoming setbacks through shared experiences and the deep emotional connections fostered by their lyrics. Their conversation shines a light on the beauty of friendship and the evolving identity that comes with age.

Miroslav Volf, a renowned theologian from Yale and author of 'Life Worth Living,' explores how to define a life of purpose. He dives into the internal struggle between good and evil and the impact of our choices on personal fulfillment. Volf discusses the interplay of agency against societal pressures, emphasizing meaningful connections over fleeting validation. He challenges the culture of comparison and reflects on the ethical dilemma surrounding life extension, encouraging listeners to prioritize true happiness and moral integrity.

Henry Shukman, a poet and Zen master, engages in a captivating dialogue about his new book, Original Love, and the path to awakening. He shares insights on how embracing 'original love' can transform self-perception, contrasting it with harmful notions like 'original sin.' The conversation delves into the power of mindfulness, the importance of community support, and the fulfillment found in the present moment. With personal anecdotes, Shukman highlights the significance of deep connections and acceptance in fostering personal growth and emotional well-being.

Michael Norton, a Harvard Business professor and author of "The Ritual Effect," dives into the transformative power of rituals. He distinguishes between rituals and habits, emphasizing how intentional practices can enrich our lives. Listeners learn about the emotional benefits of rituals in relationships and how these practices help manage uncertainty and stress. Norton shares anecdotes and research, illustrating how rituals foster connection, enhance well-being, and serve as anchors for navigating life's unpredictabilities.

Dan Heath, bestselling author and speaker at Duke University, shares captivating stories about finding meaningful work. He emphasizes creating supportive environments to make better decisions and encourages focusing on positive outcomes during change. Heath highlights the importance of aligning emotional desires and rational thought for personal growth. He also discusses the subjective nature of fulfillment in careers, using anecdotes that illustrate how even seemingly mundane jobs can provide deep satisfaction.