The One You Feed

Lisa Feldman Barrett, a leading scientist in psychology and neuroscience, dives into how our brains operate. She discusses the vital role of social connections on our well-being and emphasizes emotional granularity for improved self-awareness. Practical strategies for enhancing emotional resilience and managing body budget deficits are explored. Moreover, she unveils the brain's predictive capabilities and how they shape our experiences, urging listeners to understand their emotions better for a healthier mindset.

A.J. Jacobs, a journalist and author known for his engaging explorations of culture and history, shares his fascinating experience of living constitutionally for a year. He highlights the significance of Election Day and unravels modern conveniences that connect us to the past. Conversations flow into the virtues of the Founding Fathers, urging a deeper understanding of their timeless values. With a mix of humor and heartfelt anecdotes, Jacobs advocates for mindful media consumption and civil discourse, illuminating the journey toward personal growth and societal change.

Steven Kotler, a New York Times bestselling author and expert on human performance, shares his transformative journey through illness that led to discovering the power of flow states. He discusses the critical role of attention, intrinsic motivation, and grit in achieving peak performance. Highlights include effective learning strategies and the psychological phenomenon of time dilation. Kotler emphasizes the importance of cultivating passions and the gradual development of skills, offering a blueprint for enhanced personal and professional growth.

In this heartfelt discussion, children share their insights on battling their inner 'good' and 'bad' wolves. They explore the origins of self-doubt and dissatisfaction in their lives, emphasizing the role of family support in nurturing positive thinking. Engaging dialogues reveal how they confront emotions and criticism while fostering resilience. With a playful pizza-making analogy, they discuss the pressure of societal expectations versus the importance of accountability. Ultimately, the conversation highlights self-compassion and the power of supportive relationships in overcoming negativity.

Catherine Gray, a UK-based writer and author of "The Unexpected Joy of Being Sober," shares her insightful views on gratitude practices and personal growth in recovery. She emphasizes that sobriety is a transformative journey, not just an end goal, encouraging listeners to redefine their identity beyond addiction. Gray highlights the importance of mindful living and self-compassion while addressing the complexities of addiction. By embracing empowering lifestyle changes, she inspires those in recovery to seek fulfillment and cultivate positivity.

Emma Seppälä, science director at Stanford's Center for Compassion and Altruism, shares her expertise on emotional sovereignty. She emphasizes the power of self-awareness and how to transform negative self-talk into a positive internal dialogue. Emma discusses overcoming self-criticism and recognizing its detrimental effects on mental health. She advocates for contemplative practices as tools for emotional regulation, urging listeners to cultivate self-compassion and personal agency amidst life’s chaos.

In this engaging conversation, Grace Shireson, President of the Shogaku Zen Institute and clinical psychologist, delves into the art of embracing awareness and shedding ego. She shares insights on the transformative nature of spiritual practice, emphasizing the need for honest introspection. Grace explores the balance between genuine motivations and ego-driven actions, along with the significance of mindfulness in navigating life's challenges. Historical female figures in Zen Buddhism offer inspiration, while practical strategies guide listeners toward inner peace and resilience.

Anne Lamott, a celebrated author known for her honest explorations of faith and recovery, discusses the journey of embracing imperfection. She shares her personal battles with perfectionism and shame, advocating for self-compassion as a pathway to personal growth. The importance of community support in recovery is emphasized, alongside the need to shift perspectives on life’s challenges. Lamott also explores the relationship between mindfulness, creativity, and the inner critic, inspiring listeners to celebrate their authentic selves.

Cindy Stulberg, an internationally respected psychologist and director for the Institute of Interpersonal Psychotherapy, shares her insights on improving relationships and mental well-being. She discusses practical strategies for overcoming social isolation and navigating life transitions. The conversation touches on the significance of emotional awareness, the difference between feelings and moods, and mastering difficult conversations. Cindy emphasizes the importance of small, consistent steps in personal growth and enhancing connections with others.

Join Rainn Wilson, the beloved actor known for his role as Dwight in 'The Office' and author of 'Soul Boom', as he explores mental health, spirituality, and connection. He delves into the inner battle between our higher and lower selves, emphasizing self-awareness and the transformative power of nature. Rainn shares personal stories about meditation and finding balance in life while highlighting the importance of nurturing connections for overall well-being. This engaging discussion also touches on spirituality as a source of resilience and service to others.