The One You Feed

In a time of crisis, having a spiritual practice can serve as a grounding force. The conversation explores how principles like acceptance and mindfulness can guide individuals through uncertainty. Personal journeys of recovery highlight the need for stability and support. Listeners are encouraged to embrace liminal spaces as opportunities for transformative growth. The importance of choosing kindness and generosity is emphasized for navigating these turbulent times. Ultimately, it's about thriving rather than just surviving.

Justin Michael Williams, a transformational speaker and recording artist, dives deep into the synergy between meditation and activism. He shares insights from his new book, Stay Woke, and discusses the balance between personal growth and societal healing. The conversation tackles the complexities of privilege and the realities of systemic oppression, emphasizing compassionate dialogue about race. Williams also introduces 'freedom meditation,' showcasing how personal connection can revolutionize traditional practices, making healing accessible to all.

Ellen Bass, a celebrated poet and educator, shares her insights on the transformative power of poetry. She discusses how poetry can deepen our connection to the world and turns suffering into art, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness in the creative process. Ellen reads her own poignant works, illustrating how even ordinary moments can become profound. The conversation also touches on the interplay between gratitude, creativity, and the challenges artists face, ultimately celebrating the beauty found in life's complexities.

Lisa Mosconi is a pioneering neuroscientist and the Director of the Women’s Brain Initiative, focusing on brain health and Alzheimer's prevention. In this engaging conversation, she discusses how nutrition profoundly impacts cognitive function, emphasizing essential nutrients like omega-3s and antioxidants. Mosconi highlights the unique challenges women face regarding brain health, especially post-menopause. She advocates for mindful eating, hydration, and addressing environmental barriers to healthy food, aiming to empower listeners to take control of their cognitive health.

Jamia Wilson, a prominent feminist activist and author, shares her insights on allyship and activism. She emphasizes the importance of deep listening and understanding in combating racism. Discussing the complexities of moral judgment, she highlights the need for self-education and humility in pursuing justice. Jamia also offers practical advice for effective allyship, especially for white individuals, advocating for financial support and community engagement. Her compassionate approach inspires listeners to strive for meaningful change together.

Dr. James Gordon, an esteemed psychiatrist and founder of The Center for Mind-Body Medicine, dives into the transformative power of healing trauma. They discuss the common misconceptions about trauma and emphasize that healing is accessible to everyone. Practical techniques like soft belly breathing and movement are explored as antidotes to anxiety and emotional distress. Gordon also highlights successful trauma interventions in Kosovo, showcasing the power of community support in recovery. The conversation is rich with insights into personal empowerment and emotional growth.

Ruth King, an emotional wisdom author and founder of the Mindful Members Insight Meditation Community, shares her profound insights on healing racism. She emphasizes the personal transformation required to confront societal issues and the significance of self-awareness. The metaphor of racism as a heart disease highlights the need for compassion and understanding. King also discusses the role of racial affinity groups in fostering dialogue and encourages individuals to explore their racial identities to promote meaningful change.

Austin Channing Brown, a passionate advocate for racial justice, shares her insights as a writer and speaker. She discusses the importance of using emotions like anger to foster creativity and connection in the fight for racial equality. Austin explores the challenges of discussing race in predominantly white spaces and the impact of implicit bias. She emphasizes the power of education and community engagement in addressing complex racial issues and highlights the necessity of listening and personal growth to promote understanding and reconciliation.

Nir Eyal, a renowned author and former lecturer at Stanford, dives into the art of becoming indistractable. He shares insights from his latest work, emphasizing the power of attention in enhancing our quality of life. Listeners learn about managing internal triggers and the benefits of structured planning, like time boxing, to boost productivity. Eyal discusses how embracing identity can help overcome digital distractions, highlighting the essential balance between focused work and personal relationships. This engaging conversation is packed with practical strategies for modern living.

Laura McKowen, an author and award-winning blogger known for her irreverent take on self-help, shares her thoughts on the transformative power of sobriety. She discusses her book, "We Are the Luckiest," emphasizing that addiction isn't just about willpower but about addressing deeper emotional struggles. The conversation touches on the duality within us, the significance of community in recovery, and navigating sobriety in social settings. McKowen also highlights the importance of embracing discomfort during life's transitions and promoting self-compassion.