The One You Feed

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!

In this conversation, Brad Warner, an ordained Zen teacher and author of "Hardcore Zen," shares his unique insights from blending Zen principles with punk rock culture. He discusses the idea of absolute versus relative truth and the importance of the Buddhist precepts, emphasizing that rules are not universally applicable. Warner also reflects on the iceberg metaphor representing self-awareness and the unseen aspects of our being. Additionally, he highlights the paradox of goals in Zen practice, encouraging a state of being present in life.

Kelly Wilson, a psychology professor and co-developer of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), shares valuable insights on overcoming anxiety. He redefines vulnerability as a strength rather than a weakness. Discussion highlights include the importance of aligning with personal values and facing fears to foster transformative peace. Kelly emphasizes that anxiety isn't a sign of being broken; instead, it reflects shared human experiences. Moreover, he advocates for focusing on meaningful actions rather than merely symptom elimination.

Spring Washam is a respected meditation and dharma teacher from Oakland, California, and the founder of Lotus Vine Journeys. In this engaging discussion, she shares insights from her book, A Fierce Heart, encouraging listeners to balance action with contemplation. Spring emphasizes the transformative power of faith during adversity and how confronting emotional truths can lead to growth. She highlights the importance of compassion and forgiveness in pursuing social justice, and reflects on her own journey toward interconnection and greater self-awareness.

Ibram X. Kendi, a prominent American author and scholar on race, dives deep into the nuances of antiracism in this engaging discussion. He shares insights from his book, explaining how to identify racist versus antiracist policies. The conversation also tackles the fluidity of racial identities and the societal impacts of discrimination. Kendi provides a critical examination of historical narratives and their connection to current inequalities, urging listeners to shift focus from individual blame to systemic change.

Sasha Sagan, a talented writer and producer, discusses the intersection of science and sacredness. She highlights how rituals can enrich our lives, helping us transition from isolation to connection. Sagan emphasizes the importance of maintaining awe and curiosity about the world, even as we uncover scientific explanations. She explores the role of tradition in marking life's changes and fostering community, encouraging listeners to embrace uncertainty as a pathway to deeper understanding. Her insights offer a unique perspective on creating meaning in an impermanent world.