The One You Feed

Cory Allen, a writer and meditation teacher known for his podcast The Astral Hustle, dives deep into mindfulness and self-awareness. He discusses his book, Now Is The Way, exploring how our actions shape our identities. Cory emphasizes the importance of recognizing and guiding our negative thoughts to foster a positive self-image. He shares practical strategies for balancing mindfulness and compassion—encouraging listeners to embrace present moments and navigate overwhelming emotions through techniques like the 'watcher' meditation.

Bina Venkataraman, an American journalist and author, dives deep into the art of thinking ahead. She explores pivotal themes from her book, The Optimist's Telescope, emphasizing the balance between present living and future planning. Discover how long-term thinking can enhance decision-making and societal contributions. Bina shares insights on overcoming short-term satisfaction to foster meaningful futures, addresses emotional health strategies, and encourages resilience through setbacks. A thought-provoking conversation on making choices today for a better tomorrow!

IN-Q, an acclaimed poet and bestselling author, shares his insights on life through the lens of poetry. He discusses the duality of human emotions and the spiritual practices intertwined with creativity. Emphasizing that it's easier to hate than to create, he highlights the transformative power of storytelling. IN-Q reads powerful poems, including thoughts from his book, 'Inquire Within,' and reflects on the challenges of navigating emotions and societal influences. Ultimately, he inspires listeners to embrace both hope and despair.

Ella Frances Sanders, an internationally bestselling author and illustrator, dives into the wonders of our universe with vibrant discussions about her book, "Eating the Sun." She shares insights from the wolf parable, advocating for the choice of positivity over fear. Ella emphasizes the importance of our relationship with plants and nature, highlighting their intelligence and communication. The conversation also touches on the fluidity of memory and the chaotic nature of existence, inviting listeners to reconsider their perceptions and connections to the world around them.

Join Parker Palmer, a seasoned writer and activist, alongside Ellen Bass, an award-winning poet, Spring Washam, a meditation teacher, and Ralph De La Rosa, a psychotherapist. They delve into resilience in tough times, emphasizing art as a connection to our emotions. Parker shares actionable steps to foster positivity, while Ellen advises to 'work more, worry less.' The group discusses the balance between self-care and activism, the power of small actions, and the importance of gratitude. They also explore processing emotions and the necessity of mindful media consumption.

Dr. Shauna Shapiro, a clinical psychologist and mindfulness expert, shares her insights on transformative mindfulness. She discusses her book, emphasizing self-compassion and how daily practices can rewire our brains for positivity. The conversation explores the power of intention, attention, and attitude in mindfulness, and how nurturing kindness towards oneself can combat shame. Shauna also highlights the differences between mindfulness and meditation, and offers practical tips for integrating mindfulness into everyday life for personal growth.

Dr. Ken Druck, a leading mental health expert on aging and relationships, shares profound insights from his book, including the emotional complexities of caring for aging parents. He discusses navigating grief after the loss of his daughter, emphasizing the importance of purpose in pain. Dr. Druck explores the notion of self-love amidst caregiving challenges and the significance of open communication in these delicate dynamics. His wisdom encourages embracing joy, cultivating gratitude, and finding meaning in life's transitions.

Julia Cameron, celebrated author of 'The Artist's Way,' shares her insights on nurturing creativity. She discusses the transformative practice of 'Morning Pages,' a daily exercise aimed at overcoming self-doubt. Julia emphasizes creativity’s connection to spirituality and the importance of emotional clarity. She also introduces 'artist dates' to foster joy and connection, stressing that it’s never too late to embrace one’s creative spirit. The conversation is filled with wisdom on overcoming perfectionism and embracing the process of creativity.

Join James Kingsland, a seasoned science and medical journalist, as he dives into the intriguing neuroscience behind our reality. He explores how our perceptions shape our experiences, emphasizing that we don't see the world as it truly is, but rather through the lens of our expectations. Kingsland discusses the brain's prediction error coding, mental health issues, and how altered states can offer insight and healing. His insights draw on the intersection of neuroscience, mindfulness, and even Buddhist teachings.

Judith Grisel, a Professor of Psychology at Bucknell University and an expert in addiction research, shares her insights and personal journey of overcoming addiction in this engaging discussion. She explores the neuroscience behind addiction, the complexity of nature versus nurture, and the heightened risks for teenagers. Judith emphasizes the importance of shifting mindsets toward positivity, the need for supportive environments in recovery, and how identity is shaped by both genetics and culture. A profound conversation on resilience and the power of connection!