The One You Feed

Scott Hershovitz, a law and philosophy professor at the University of Michigan and author of "Nasty, Brutish, and Short," discusses the importance of thinking like a kid. He highlights how children are natural philosophers, constantly asking profound questions. The conversation dives into critical thinking, the philosophical Ship of Theseus, and how our identities evolve with experiences. Hershovitz also touches on moral decision-making, encouraging listeners to explore their ethical beliefs while engaging in meaningful dialogues.

Ayelet Fishbach, a leading expert in motivation from the University of Chicago, dives into the science behind staying motivated. She emphasizes the importance of setting practical goals over idealistic ones and shares how intrinsic motivation leads to lasting engagement. Fishbach discusses the power of framing goals positively and managing temptations to boost self-control. She also explores the role of environment and social circles in decision-making, providing listeners with actionable insights for personal growth.

In this engaging discussion, Matthew Quick, the bestselling author of The Silver Linings Playbook, explores his journey through healing and recovery. He shares insights from Jungian analysis, emphasizing the balance between one's inner wolves—both good and bad. Quick delves into the complexities of addiction and creativity, as well as the vital role of community support. He also addresses the concept of 'father hunger' and its impact on personal growth, revealing how he transformed pain into healing through deeper connections and storytelling.

Parker Palmer, founder of the Center for Courage & Renewal, is a renowned writer and activist focused on community, leadership, and social change. In this engaging conversation, he explores the journey towards wholeness, discussing the interplay of solitude and community for personal growth. Palmer shares candid insights about his experiences with depression and emphasizes the importance of embracing both light and dark aspects of ourselves. He introduces the 'Circle of Trust' concept, highlighting the significance of open dialogue and understanding in bridging societal divides.

In this conversation, Chelsea Luger, a wellness advocate and member of the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa, joins Thosh Collins, a photographer and board member of the Native Wellness Institute. They explore the importance of gratitude and resilience in wellness, sharing insights from their book, The Seven Circles. The duo emphasizes the medicine wheel's interconnectedness of well-being, cultural respect, and practical ways to integrate Indigenous wisdom into daily life for a more balanced existence.

Shozan Jack Haubner, a Zen monk and author, shares insights on integrating Zen into modern life. He discusses his journey from monastic life to navigating real-world challenges and the evolving nature of personal growth. Jack explores the delicate balance between self and no self, emphasizing the importance of trusting life amidst difficulties. He shares reflections on mindfulness practices that enrich daily experiences and offers anecdotes about family dynamics and leadership, revealing the transformative power of a Zen approach in everyday interactions.

Susan Piver, a New York Times bestselling author and meditation teacher, shares insights from her latest work, 'The Buddhist Enneagram: Nine Paths to Warriorship.' The discussion highlights how the Enneagram serves as a transformative tool for personal and spiritual growth. Piver connects Buddhist principles with the Enneagram, emphasizing self-awareness and compassion in interpersonal relationships. She also explores how understanding personality types can help navigate emotional dynamics and enhance well-being.

Paul Gilmartin, a stand-up comedian and host of Mental Illness Happy Hour, dives deep into navigating fear and depression. He shares personal stories about vulnerability and overcoming addiction. Gilmartin emphasizes the balance between self-reflection and self-obsession, advocating for emotional awareness and self-compassion. The conversation explores the duality of fear and hope in personal recovery, highlighting how acting on one’s values can lead to spiritual growth and a fulfilling life. Humor intertwines with serious themes, illustrating the power of empathy and connection.

Dr. Laurie Santos, a Yale psychology professor and host of The Happiness Lab, shares insights on leading a happier life. She dives into the power of small, consistent habits and the significance of self-compassion and gratitude. Discussing the role of discretionary time, she emphasizes prioritizing meaningful activities over obligations. Santos also highlights the mindfulness lessons we can learn from dogs and how fostering community support can combat loneliness. Tune in for practical tips to enhance your well-being and deepen your appreciation of life’s joys!

Matthew Fox, an acclaimed spiritual theologian and Episcopal priest, dives deep into Creation Spirituality, emphasizing the sacredness of nature and our interdependence with the world. He discusses the importance of dualism and how embracing a 'both/and' mindset enriches our perception of existence. Creativity emerges as a vital spiritual practice, transforming suffering into art and fostering connection. Fox also highlights the transformative power of recognizing beauty and joy in daily life, advocating for compassion through both action and art.