The One You Feed

Seth Gillihan, a clinical psychologist and author, dives into the transformative power of mindfulness-centered cognitive behavioral therapy. He shares his personal journey of overcoming health challenges, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and acceptance. Listeners will learn how to embrace uncertainty, integrate mindfulness into daily life, and take actionable steps towards healing. Seth also discusses the balance between personal narratives and real-world realities, shedding light on the significance of vulnerability in mental health.

Andrew Leland, author of "The Country of the Blind," shares his poignant journey of losing his vision due to retinitis pigmentosa. He discusses the emotional landscape of adapting to disability with humor and courage, exploring themes like identity transformation and the importance of empathy. Andrew reframes challenges as opportunities for growth and encourages curiosity about life’s puzzles. He emphasizes the balance between independence and interdependence, advocating for open communication and understanding between the disabled and non-disabled.

Pádraig Ó Tuama, poet and host of On Being's Poetry Unbound, dives deep into embracing life's complexities. He emphasizes the transformative power of poetry and empathy in connecting with others. Through his engaging anecdotes, Pádraig explores the nuances of conflict resolution, urging listeners to cultivate curiosity and ask meaningful questions. He also reflects on the intricate link between belief, spirituality, and personal growth, encouraging a playful approach to understanding life's significant narratives.

Laura Cathcart-Robbins, host of "The Only One in the Room" and author, shares her personal journey through addiction and recovery. Carl Erik Fisher, an addiction specialist from Columbia University, offers a bioethical perspective on recovery pathways. Holly Whitaker, author of "Quit Like a Woman," discusses women's unique experiences with alcohol. Together, they explore the differences between sobriety and recovery, the significance of community support, and the implications of Dry January, challenging traditional views on relapse and medication-assisted treatment.

Jessica Hagy, an artist and writer known for her award-winning blog, Indexed, discusses the transformative power of stepping out of comfort zones. She shares her journey of embracing vulnerability, reinforcing how support from communities can navigate life's challenges. Listeners learn about balancing short-term happiness with long-term fulfillment and the value of online connections. Hagy emphasizes harnessing visual storytelling for personal growth and making conscious choices that prioritize kindness and authenticity.

Light Watkins, a meditation and spiritual teacher with over 20 years of experience, dives into the principles of his book, *Travel Light*. He discusses how embracing discomfort can reveal hidden strengths and accelerate personal growth. Listeners will learn about spiritual minimalism and the importance of making choices that align with one's authentic self. The conversation emphasizes cultivating gratitude for true happiness and the power of meaningful connections in leaving a lasting impact on others.

David Kadavy, a best-selling author and creativity expert, shares insights on overcoming procrastination and perfectionism. He emphasizes the importance of curiosity and experimentation in unlocking true creative passions. Kadavy discusses the concept of motivational judo, allowing individuals to combat mental barriers with achievable goals. He encourages embracing imperfections as part of the creative journey and balancing the exploitation of existing skills with the exploration of new interests for innovation. His engaging approach inspires listeners to conquer self-doubt and spark their creativity.

Andrea Lieberstein, a bestselling author and founder of the Mindful Eating Training Institute, dives into the transformative power of mindful eating. She discusses the importance of distinguishing between emotional and physical hunger, providing practical strategies to combat emotional eating. Listeners learn to embrace self-compassion and develop a healthier, more joyful relationship with food. Andrea also highlights the connection between creativity and well-being, encouraging reflection and sensory awareness to nourish both body and spirit.

Brad Stulberg, a researcher and author focused on sustainable excellence and mental health, discusses the concept of rugged flexibility as a framework for mastering change. He emphasizes embracing adaptability to drive personal growth and navigate life's challenges. The conversation covers the importance of balancing determination and flexibility, the spectrum of emotions we encounter, and practical strategies for cultivating resilience, including sustainable meditation practices. Stulberg advocates for community support and the organic unfolding of meaning during tough times.

Dr. Pooja Lakshmin, a board-certified psychiatrist and author of "Real Self-Care," discusses the pitfalls of the wellness industry's commodified self-care. She shares her journey towards authentic self-care, outlining four crucial principles: boundaries, compassion, values, and power. Pooja emphasizes setting healthy boundaries and navigating societal pressures that complicate self-care. The conversation also touches on the intersection between self-care and activism, encouraging listeners to embrace their values and foster genuine practices for personal and social change.