The One You Feed

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.

Scott Barry Kaufman, a cognitive scientist and author of "Transcend: The New Science of Self-Actualization," dives deep into the journey of transforming from mere coping to truly thriving. He discusses the significance of transcendent experiences like gratitude and joy, and how they pave the way for personal growth. Kaufman explores the duality of human nature, the complex relationship between beauty and personal identity, and emphasizes the importance of embracing life's uncertainties as opportunities for growth.

Sue Monk Kidd, acclaimed author of 'The Secret Life of Bees,' shares insights on the longings of our hearts. She discusses her new novel, 'The Book of Longings', exploring how what we focus on shapes our lives. Sue delves into the journey of self-discovery, emphasizing the need to embrace our true selves amidst societal constraints. She also highlights the transformative power of pain and vulnerability in fostering resilience and creativity. Ultimately, her reflections on spirituality encourage deeper understanding and nurturing relationships.

Henry Shukman, a poet and Associate Zen Master from New Mexico, shares insights from his Zen memoir, *One Blade of Grass*. He delves into the interplay between spiritual awakening and mental health, discussing the importance of community and accepting negative emotions for personal growth. The conversation weaves together Zen philosophy and poetry, highlighting the beauty in ordinary moments. Shukman emphasizes integrating these practices into daily life, urging listeners to cultivate mindfulness and embrace their spiritual journey.

This engaging dialogue features Susan Piver, a meditation teacher and bestselling author, along with Lodro Rinzler, a Buddhist teacher, and others like educator Rosalind Wiseman and emotional intelligence expert Ralph De La Rosa. They delve into managing the frustrations of close living quarters during challenging times. Topics include embracing emotional growth, the importance of self-awareness, and techniques for improving interactions with loved ones. Listeners gain valuable insights on patience, empathy, and the power of simply being present with each other.

Dr. Christian Conte, a renowned mental health specialist in anger management and author of 'Walking Through Anger,' shares his insights on how to navigate the complexities of anger. He emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and personal accountability in understanding emotions. The conversation dives into effective communication strategies, the significance of empathy, and how awareness can transform relationships. Conte encourages listeners to approach anger with curiosity and compassion as a path to personal growth and connection.

Explore the journey of allowing yourself to feel a wide range of emotions, especially in tough times. Discover how self-compassion can be a powerful tool during the challenges posed by the pandemic. Learn about post-traumatic growth and the potential for personal development that arises from adversity. Engaging in journaling and maintaining a structured routine can enhance resilience. Embrace the idea that navigating emotions can create deeper meaning in life, transforming pain into strength.

In this insightful conversation, Mark Nepo, a poet, philosopher, and cancer survivor, shares his wisdom on connecting to what truly matters in life. He discusses paths to meaningful living and the significance of presence, especially during chaotic times. The dual nature of humanity is explored through a parable of two wolves, emphasizing emotional balance and clarity. Mark highlights the importance of embracing the present and finding fulfillment in the ordinary, while also reflecting on the transformative power of connection and community.