The One You Feed

Caroline Williams, a science journalist and author of "Move: How the New Science of Body Movement Can Set Your Mind Free," dives into the remarkable link between movement and mental health. She explains how physical activity not only boosts our mood but also enhances creativity and self-esteem. The conversation explores interoception, the brain's role in movement, and how activities like strength training and dance foster social connections. Along the way, Caroline adds a dose of humor, tying winter swimwear antics to the science of walking's cognitive benefits.

Kevin Mitchell, an Associate Professor of Genetics and Neuroscience at Trinity College Dublin and author of "Innate," delves into the genetics of personality. He discusses how our brains are wired and the missing third piece in the nature vs. nurture debate. Topics like the relationship between genetics and traits such as extroversion or neuroticism are explored. Mitchell also examines the effects of parenting, the nuances of free will, and how brain plasticity influences personal development throughout our lives.

Carlin Quinn, founder of Education for Racial Equity, is a dedicated coach and consultant focused on dismantling systemic oppression. She shares insights on recognizing internalized racism and the dangers of ignorance in racial equity work. Carlin emphasizes the need for white individuals to confront their trauma while being present in these discussions. She discusses the importance of curiosity over judgment and highlights her program on somatic abolitionism. The conversation advocates for active community involvement and the pivotal role of education in fostering racial awareness.

Massimo Pigliucci, a Professor of Philosophy at the City College of New York and author of 'A Field Guide to a Happy Life,' dives into the principles of Stoicism and how they guide us to live meaningfully. He explores the Dichotomy of Control, emphasizing that our judgments shape our happiness. Massimo discusses the Cardinal Virtues—practical wisdom, courage, justice, and temperance—and the significance of acceptance, death, and philosophical journaling in personal growth. His insights reveal how nurturing our inner virtues can lead to a fulfilled life.

Emily White, a former lawyer and the author of "Count Me In," shares her insights on loneliness and belonging. She discusses the emotional complexities of loneliness versus depression and offers strategies for fostering meaningful connections. Emily emphasizes the importance of belonging, whether public or private, and explores the role of casual interactions in combating loneliness. She also reflects on her journey through activism, highlighting how standing for a cause can lead to deeper connections and community fulfillment.

Liz Fosslien, author and workshop leader on emotional intelligence, dives into coping with intense feelings in the workplace. She debunks myths surrounding perfectionism, revealing how it hinders growth. The conversation emphasizes the importance of embracing imperfection to foster connections. Liz also discusses emotional management, encouraging resilience in the face of uncertainty and comparing feelings like envy to personal values. Listeners gain practical tools to navigate their emotions, from reframing anxiety to improving communication.

Laura McKowen, Founder and CEO of The Luckiest Club and bestselling author, shares her insights on building a supportive sobriety community. She discusses the challenges of people-pleasing and codependency, revealing how vulnerability fosters genuine connections. Laura also highlights the innovative creation of her organization during the pandemic, blending personal stories with supportive discussions. The conversation delves into the importance of living authentically and taking responsibility, ultimately encouraging listeners to embrace their values and community in recovery.

William Irvine, a philosophy professor at Wright State University and author of "The Stoic Challenge," dives into the practical applications of Stoicism. He discusses how to manage anger by harnessing emotions rather than suppressing them. Irvine emphasizes the importance of recognizing our desires and the fleeting nature of life, urging listeners to engage in negative visualization for greater appreciation. He introduces a nuanced framework for understanding control in relationships and highlights the value of setting grand goals over seeking mere happiness.

La Sarmiento, a seasoned practitioner of Vipassana meditation and guiding teacher of BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ sanghas, shares powerful insights on moving from suffering to acceptance. They explore the importance of mindfulness in fostering belonging and connection amid differing beliefs. La emphasizes embracing imperfection, being comfortable with discomfort, and nurturing authenticity in teaching. They discuss the need for inclusivity in spiritual spaces and the impact of identity on community dynamics, encouraging deeper connections through open dialogue.

In this engaging discussion, science writer Alex Riley, author of A Cure for Darkness, shares his insights on depression and innovative treatment methods. He reflects on his personal experiences with SSRIs and psilocybin, delving into the impact of lifestyle choices like nutrition on mental health. Alex introduces the concept of the 'P factor,' suggesting that all mental health conditions are interconnected. The conversation also addresses the complexities of depression and the importance of self-compassion in the healing journey.