The One You Feed

Kristi Nelson, a stage four cancer survivor and founder of a values-based fundraising consulting firm, shares her inspiring journey of embracing life fully. She explores the power of gratitude and the difference between gratitude and gratefulness. Listeners learn to appreciate life's little moments and shift their mindset from obligation to opportunity. Kristi stresses that recognizing each moment as a gift can lead to a profound sense of fulfillment and happiness, even amidst challenges.

Ruth Whippman, author of "America the Anxious," dives deep into the complexities of happiness and the pitfalls of self-help culture. She challenges the idea that simple solutions can solve emotional struggles, emphasizing the critical role of social connections. Whippman questions conventional happiness research, urging a more compassionate understanding of personal responsibility versus systemic influences. The conversation also offers valuable parenting insights for navigating the challenges of raising resilient kids in today's world.

Jim Kwik, a renowned brain coach and expert in accelerated learning, shares his inspiring journey of overcoming significant learning challenges after a traumatic brain injury. He discusses practical strategies to unlock your brain’s potential through mindset and effective learning methods. Kwik emphasizes the power of personal growth and resilience in transforming adversity into advantage. He also covers the importance of self-care and nurturing well-being, highlighting that everyone can supercharge their ability to learn and retain knowledge.

Emily Esfahani Smith, author of "The Power of Meaning," discusses the art of crafting a meaningful life through four essential pillars: belonging, purpose, storytelling, and transcendence. She highlights the difference between happiness and meaning, emphasizing that true fulfillment comes from contributing to something greater than oneself. The conversation delves into how personal narratives shape our understanding of self, the importance of community, and adapting our purpose as life evolves. Smith provides insights on integrating these pillars into daily living for deeper connections.

David Brooks, a renowned author and commentator, shares insights on the power of deep connections in our lives. He emphasizes the importance of effective communication, especially during difficult conversations, and how understanding intentions can transform relationships. Topics include supporting those struggling with addiction and depression, the link between perception and reality, and the art of curiosity in fostering genuine interactions. Brooks highlights that meaningful relationships can profoundly impact personal growth and fulfillment.

In this enlightening conversation, Adyashanti, a renowned spiritual teacher, shares profound insights on navigating the spiritual path through self-inquiry. He discusses how self-inquiry can reveal illusions that block growth and the significance of practicing gratitude in enhancing well-being. Adyashanti emphasizes the importance of embracing uncertainty in meditation and encourages a playful approach to deepen connections. He challenges listeners to reflect on their spiritual practices while highlighting the need for authenticity over materialism in their journeys.

Lama Rod Owens, a renowned Buddhist teacher and author, shares his enlightening journey of self-discovery. He discusses how embracing struggle can lead to personal growth, emphasizing the transformative power of self-love. Listeners will learn to balance expansive and contracting activities, fostering a fulfilling lifestyle. Owens highlights the importance of understanding darkness as a catalyst for empathy and connection. He also explores navigating identity and emotional triggers while advocating for the intersection of self-care and activism.

Adyashanti, an American-born spiritual teacher dedicated to awakening, shares invaluable insights into navigating the spiritual path. He emphasizes the transformative power of self-inquiry for deeper awareness and personal understanding. The conversation delves into the balance between seeking guidance and trusting one’s intuition. Adyashanti discusses the essential role of teachers in spiritual growth and the need for emotional processing in the journey of awakening. Listeners gain practical techniques for cultivating mindfulness and integrating meditation into daily life.

Shauna Shapiro, a renowned expert in mindfulness and clinical psychology, discusses the transformative power of mindfulness and the science behind it. She delves into how intentions can steer our lives towards greater fulfillment and well-being. Through personal anecdotes, Shapiro highlights the importance of self-compassion and gratitude in reshaping our emotional landscape. Listeners will learn practical strategies for cultivating mindfulness and emotional resilience, as well as the crucial distinction between empathy and compassion for stronger relationships.

Michelle Gilean, a former CBS news anchor turned positive psychology researcher, shares her journey from broadcasting negativity to championing positivity. She discusses the profound impact of negative news on our well-being and how to protect ourselves from its effects. Michelle reveals the secret to focusing on solutions, emphasizes the power of optimism, and offers strategies to create a fulfilling life filled with growth. She also explores how to engage positively with negative individuals and navigate challenging times while maintaining a hopeful perspective.