The One You Feed

David Kadavy, a best-selling author and creative mentor, shares insights from his book, The Heart to Start. He tackles procrastination and the mental barriers that hold us back, introducing concepts like 'motivational Judo' and giving yourself 'permission to suck.' Kadavy emphasizes the importance of starting small to build confidence and encourages embracing curiosity to spark innovation. With practical advice and engaging storytelling, he motivates listeners to overcome fears and tackle their creative projects head-on.

Alan Castel, Ph.D., a UCLA psychology professor and author of "Better with Age," explores the fascinating dynamics of successful aging. He discusses how a positive mindset can enhance life satisfaction and the importance of focusing on meaningful relationships. Castel shares insights on the significance of physical activity for preserving cognitive function and preventing decline. He highlights benefits like increased clarity and less regret in older adults, emphasizing that life can significantly improve with age.

Mary O'Malley, an acclaimed author and counselor focused on awakening, shares her transformative approach to overcoming compulsions. She emphasizes the importance of embracing both joy and pain during personal awakening. O'Malley discusses the duality of human nature and the significance of mindfulness in navigating emotions. Practical strategies for self-awareness and presence are highlighted, along with the power of curiosity to dissolve deep-seated beliefs. Her insights invite listeners to cultivate greater inner awareness and a liberated sense of being.

In this conversation, Ruth Whippman, an insightful author and commentator, examines the pitfalls of America's relentless pursuit of happiness. She critiques the self-help industry's oversimplified solutions and emphasizes the complexities of life and well-being. Ruth argues against the myth of self-reliance, advocating for social connections as a key element of true happiness. They also delve into the balance between personal responsibility and systemic influences on mental health, challenging common perceptions and encouraging a more collective understanding of fulfillment.

Skip Prichard, the fifth president of OCLC and author of "The Book of Mistakes," shares insights on personal growth and resilience. He discusses how focusing on the right mindset can transform challenges into opportunities. Prichard emphasizes the importance of accountability and the need to reject excuses for failure. He explores the concept of success as a balance of ambition and peace. Delving into emotional regulation, he highlights its critical role in achieving personal goals and overcoming setbacks.

Dr. Ellen Hendriksen, a clinical psychologist and author of How to Be Yourself, shares her insights on conquering social anxiety. She discusses the dual nature of social anxiety, how it can foster empathy, and the neuroscience behind it. Ellen emphasizes the importance of facing fears to change brain responses and combat the negative effects of avoidance. Practical tools for managing the inner critic and practicing self-compassion are highlighted, offering strategies to transform social interactions for the better.

Sister Joan Chittister, a Benedictine Sister and acclaimed author known for her advocacy of justice and equality, engages in an inspiring discussion. She emphasizes the significance of humility as a cornerstone of spirituality and shares her insights from her book, Radical Spirit. Topics include the detrimental effects of narcissism in culture, the true nature of obedience, and the importance of self-awareness for personal growth. Sister Joan encourages listeners to embrace their authentic selves and recognize the power of community in nurturing positivity.

In this enlightening conversation, Donna Cameron, an experienced executive and author of "A Year of Living Kindly," shares her passion for kindness. She discusses the personal stories that shaped her journey and the profound impact kindness can have on our health and relationships. Donna emphasizes choosing kindness over negativity and reveals how keeping score can undermine our connections. With engaging insights, she explores actionable ways to foster kindness in our lives, ultimately transforming both individual well-being and community dynamics.

Elisha Goldstein, Ph.D., co-founder of the Center for Mindful Living and an expert on mindfulness and depression, dives into transformative approaches to mental health. He discusses his book, highlighting how mindfulness and self-compassion can uncover happiness and break the cycle of depression. Elisha emphasizes the neurological insights into depression and the power of community support. He encourages curiosity and the importance of play in adulthood as ways to foster emotional resilience and joy.

Oren Jay Sofer, a leader in mindful communication and meditation with a Columbia degree in Comparative Religion, shares insights from his book, 'Say What You Mean.' He discusses the importance of being present and the impact of fragmented attention on our conversations. Oren outlines a three-step process for effective communication: leading with presence, coming from curiosity, and focusing on what matters. He emphasizes the power of pausing and the connection between our speech and nervous system, offering practical techniques to enhance interpersonal connections.