The One You Feed

In a lively discussion, Martha Beck, a best-selling author and Harvard-educated life coach, alongside Rowan Mangan, a writer and mother, explore the art of living unscripted. They delve into distinguishing intuition from habit, highlighting the struggles of living in a left-brain dominated culture. The duo emphasizes the importance of improvisation in embracing life's unpredictability, encouraging a 'don't know' mindset for personal growth. They also discuss the significance of authenticity and vulnerability in a rapidly changing world, advocating for genuine self-discovery.

In a heartfelt conversation, Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer, a talented poet and co-host of the Emerging Form podcast, shares her insights on embracing grief and life’s paradoxes. She discusses how to trust life despite adversity and the transformative power of poetry as a means of navigating love and loss. Rosemerry emphasizes using mantras to boost mindfulness, cultivating curiosity, and viewing life’s challenges as opportunities for growth. Her reflections inspire listeners to greet their emotions with openness and compassion.

Gretchen Rubin, a bestselling author and host of "Happier with Gretchen Rubin," discusses the transformative power of our senses. She emphasizes how engaging with our five senses can deepen connections with ourselves and others. Rubin suggests keeping a "5 Senses Journal" to appreciate life’s small moments. She explores the impact of sound and scent on emotions and memories, revealing how sensory experiences can foster joy, creativity, and meaningful relationships. Through practical tips, she encourages listeners to embrace sensory experiences for richer daily living.

In this conversation, Danusha Laméris, a poet and essayist, shares her insights into embracing discomfort as a pathway to personal growth. She discusses the power of small acts of kindness and how they can carry us through tough times. With a blend of humor and heartfelt stories, Laméris highlights the delicate balance between joy and grief. She emphasizes the significance of being present in ordinary moments and delving deeper into our fears and desires. Ultimately, it’s about using uncertainty to fuel creativity and resilience.

Maggie Smith, an acclaimed author known for her viral poem "Good Bones" and works like "Keep Moving," dives into the complexities of emotional turmoil and self-discovery. She emphasizes the necessity of questioning life changes and how reflecting on the past can provide clarity. The conversation reveals the power of writing to process emotions and develop insights. Smith also addresses the importance of embracing all versions of ourselves and the significance of fostering empathy to navigate relationships more peacefully.

James Crews, an accomplished poet and editor of the anthology "How to Love the World," delves into the profound connection between poetry and spirituality. He highlights how everyday moments can ignite joy and creativity. The conversation reveals the necessity of embracing discomfort and vulnerability in the creative process. Crews shares insights on self-compassion, illustrating its power in personal growth. Discover how poetry serves as a dual vessel for both sorrow and joy, ultimately enhancing our understanding of ourselves and the world.

In this engaging conversation, Ross Gay, an accomplished author and educator, shares his insights on cultivating joy in everyday life. He discusses his 'delight' project, emphasizing how attention can reveal the abundance of joy around us. Ross highlights the importance of laughter in connection and how writing fosters self-discovery. The talk delves into the interplay of joy and sorrow, advocating for kindness as a transformative force. Ultimately, it’s a reflection on slowing down, listening to our bodies, and nurturing connections amid life’s challenges.

Dr. Shauna Shapiro, a professor and mindfulness expert, dives into the transformative power of self-compassion. She discusses the crucial elements of mindfulness: intention, attention, and attitude, advocating for small daily practices to cultivate these traits. Shapiro explores how shame can hinder growth and emphasizes the importance of self-kindness. Listeners will learn about the 'Good Morning, I Love You' practice, the concept of self-liberation versus self-improvement, and how setting flexible intentions can enhance personal well-being.

Spring Washam, a meditation and dharma teacher from Oakland, dives into the life and lessons of Harriet Tubman. She emphasizes the importance of honoring our ancestors and acknowledges that struggle is a universal teacher. The discussion frames Tubman's journey as a metaphor for breaking mental prisons and finding inner freedom, symbolized by the North Star as a guiding light. Washam also highlights the significance of storytelling in fostering resilience and compassion, especially in today's media landscape filled with negativity.

Kathy Fagan, an esteemed poet and co-founder of Ohio State's MFA program, delves into the emotional complexities of caregiving. She shares her personal journey with the dualities of love and loss while caring for an aging parent with dementia. Fagan discusses how writing serves as a therapeutic tool to process grief and embrace difficult emotions. The conversation also explores the nuances of trust in relationships and highlights the importance of attentiveness and curiosity in creativity and life.