The One You Feed

In this discussion, Sharon Salzberg, a renowned Buddhist teacher and meditation retreat leader, shares powerful insights on cultivating lovingkindness and compassion. She emphasizes the connection between self-forgiveness and personal growth, encouraging listeners to embrace their imperfections. The conversation delves into the importance of mindfulness in navigating emotions and societal pressures on happiness. Salzberg also highlights how attention shapes our experiences and the role of compassionate action in finding joy and creativity in life.

Martin Aylward, a seasoned meditation teacher who has spent years in Asian monasteries, shares insights on embodying awareness. He dives into concepts from his book, discussing the nuances of 'Grabby Mind' and 'Resistant Mind' and how to meet experiences with kindness. Martin also explores the impact of aging on self-image and the importance of nurturing insecurities for emotional well-being. Listeners will appreciate his practical techniques for mindfulness, especially in tense situations, promoting deeper self-awareness and personal growth.

Marshall Goldsmith, a two-time Thinkers 50 Award winner and acclaimed executive coach, shares insights from his book, *The Earned Life*. He discusses how losing regret and choosing fulfillment can redefine our lives. Marshall emphasizes the role of daily self-reflection and the importance of aligning actions with deeper values. He explains the necessity of community support and overcoming barriers that hinder personal growth. Expect practical strategies for balancing ambitions with genuine enjoyment, transforming daily life into a more meaningful experience.

In this engaging discussion, Susan Cain, the bestselling author known for her influential TED Talk, dives deep into themes from her latest book, *Bittersweet*. She explores why some revel in sad music and how embracing life's dualities can foster beauty and connection. The conversation highlights the transformative power of pain, shared grief, and how longing can be a divine force. Cain also touches on the intricate balance between joy and sorrow, and how this bittersweet state can lead us toward a more fulfilling existence.

David Christian, a distinguished Professor of History and Director of the Big History Institute, dives into the art of future storytelling. He explores how humans are wired to think about futures, connecting it to both personal and collective survival. Christian discusses time as a complex entity, using metaphors of rivers and maps to explain our understanding of it. He emphasizes the need for collaborative thinking in tackling future challenges and reflects on how our decisions today shape tomorrow's possibilities.

Jessica Nordell, an award-winning author known for her book "The End of Bias," dives into the many layers of unconscious bias. She discusses its prevalence and how it’s often a habit formed by social conditioning. Jessica shares her personal experiences with bias and emphasizes the dangers of labeling and categorizing, especially in children. Through fascinating studies, she illustrates how familiarity with diverse groups can promote empathy and understanding. The conversation ultimately encourages listeners to embrace different perspectives to dismantle stereotypes.

Josh Peck, renowned for his role in 'Drake & Josh,' dives into the intricacies of happiness in this engaging discussion. He shares insights from his book, 'Happy People Are Annoying,' tackling self-centeredness and the challenges of letting go of ego. Peck opens up about his struggles with food addiction and the deep connections between addiction and family suffering. The conversation explores the transformative power of community, the complexities of recovery, and the importance of finding joy amidst life's challenges.

In this captivating discussion, Sonya Curry, entrepreneur and mother of NBA stars, shares her journey of faith and personal growth. She reveals her struggles with fulfillment despite living a seemingly perfect life and discusses the impact of Montessori principles on her family dynamics. Sonya candidly addresses the challenges of comparison in parenting and the emotional weight of her past decisions, including an abortion. She reflects on the power of vulnerability and the joys of self-discovery, making this conversation both heartfelt and insightful.

Dan Harris, an ABC News correspondent and author of "10% Happier," shares his journey from skepticism to embracing meditation as a powerful stress relief tool. He discusses the importance of training the mind for happiness and compassion, the science behind meditation, and how our inner voices shape our realities. Harris also explores the necessity of balancing ambition with contentment and how mindfulness can help us navigate pain and setbacks, ultimately enhancing self-awareness and emotional well-being.

Rachel Krantz, a founding editor of Bustle and author of the acclaimed memoir 'Open,' dives into non-monogamy and personal growth. She distinguishes non-monogamy from polyamory, sharing her motivations for exploring these relationships. A Buddhist monk's insights helped her confront attachment issues and find compassion with boundaries. Rachel candidly discusses her struggles with jealousy and how embracing discomfort fosters emotional growth. This engaging dialogue encourages listeners to reflect on love, relationships, and societal expectations.