The One You Feed

Bob Thurman, a leading scholar in Indo-Tibetan Buddhism and president of Tibet House US, dives into the idea of finding bliss through understanding reality. He discusses his book, Wisdom is Bliss, explaining how our civilization's fear shapes our lives. Thurman shares four transformative facts, emphasizing responsibility and a shift from self-centeredness to altruism. The conversation highlights love as the essence of reality, advocating for compassion and mindfulness as pathways to true happiness. Dive into insights that challenge conventional thinking and inspire personal growth!

Eric and Chris explore the roots of their longstanding friendship, blending humor and heartfelt moments. They recount their shared love of music and past memories, like Waterboys concerts and backstage adventures. The duo reflects on the transformative impact of friendship during challenges like addiction and recovery. They discuss the delicate balance of maintaining personal relationships while collaborating professionally. Laughter emerges as a crucial element that helps them navigate both dark moments and joyful times.

Nedra Glover Tawwab, a New York Times bestselling author and licensed therapist, dives deep into the world of boundaries. She explains how vital they are for healthy relationships and self-esteem. Listeners learn the spectrum of boundaries, from porous to rigid, and the importance of flexibility. Nedra emphasizes the three key steps to set boundaries: be clear, be direct, and confront discomfort. She also tackles the emotional turmoil that often accompanies boundary-setting, especially when facing guilt or during breakups, highlighting that prioritizing oneself is essential for well-being.

Greg McKeown, author and CEO of McKeown Inc., shares his insights on making life easier with a focus on essentialism. He discusses his book, 'Effortless,' emphasizing the transformative power of gratitude and the importance of shifting from complaint to appreciation. McKeown urges listeners to consider the personal growth that comes from living in the gain rather than the gap. He also highlights how holding grudges complicates life and the significance of language in shaping our emotional reality, encouraging deep listening for better connections.

Therese Borchard, author and mental health advocate, dives into her personal battles with treatment-resistant depression. She shares her holistic approach to managing the illness, combining traditional and alternative therapies. Therese discusses the critical need for support groups and community connections, emphasizing that vulnerability can foster compassion. She also offers practical strategies for coping with negative thoughts and the importance of nurturing personal growth through acceptance and resilience in the face of life's complexities.

Bela Koe-Krompecher, a writer and social worker who owns Anyway Records, shares his journey through recovery and the transformative power of music. He discusses his book, 'Love, Death, and Photosynthesis,' highlighting the role of supportive relationships in overcoming addiction. Bela reflects on the challenges of mental illness and personal trauma while emphasizing empathy over judgment. He also explores how music connects us across generations, serving as a powerful healing force in the complexities of life.

John Mabry, a United Church of Christ pastor and author, dives into the intersection of shamanism and Christianity. He shares insights from his book, exploring how shamanic practices can lead to wholeness and healing. John discusses his transformative shamanic journey and the significance of his spirit animal, the panther. He emphasizes the distinction between trust and belief in spirituality and the importance of imagination in forming connections with the spiritual world. Join him as he navigates through the complexities of faith and personal experience.

Katy Milkman, a Professor at The Wharton School and co-director of the Behavior Change for Good Initiative, discusses her book on transforming habits. She reveals how to balance stubbornness with flexibility in change. Enjoyable goals can drive persistence, while tailored strategies help navigate internal conflicts. Milkman explains the power of small rewards and examines how intrinsic and extrinsic motivations intertwine. Finally, she underscores that change is non-linear, emphasizing self-compassion and the role of fresh starts in personal growth.

Dr. John Kaag, Professor of Philosophy at UMass and author of 'Sick Souls, Healthy Minds,' explores how to infuse life with zest. He discusses William James's philosophy and the importance of recognizing we're not alone in our struggles. The conversation dives into the balance between cultivating new experiences and maintaining commitments, emphasizing how habits can lead us to autopilot living. Kaag also highlights the significance of intentional choices in shaping our existence, urging listeners to discover excitement in ordinary moments.

Jessica Hagy, an acclaimed artist and author of numerous internationally translated books, shares her wisdom on fear and personal growth. She emphasizes that every fear carries a hope and advocates for focusing on desires over worries. Jessica discusses the power of envy as a motivational tool and the importance of celebrating small victories. They explore how intense emotions can drive us forward, the impact of isolation on fear, and the necessity of aligning personal goals with intrinsic values for a fearless life.