The One You Feed

Jamil Zaki, a Stanford psychology professor and director of the Social Neuroscience Lab, discusses his book on overcoming cynicism. He explores how personal perceptions influence behavior and promotes 'hopeful skepticism' as a way to combat negativity. Trust's crucial role in community resilience is emphasized, along with the impact of relationships on personal growth. Zaki also highlights the value of solutions journalism in fostering hope and how environmental dynamics can shape social trust. His insights inspire a move toward positive connections in a divided world.

Lucia Knell, Vice President of Upworthy and co-author of "Good People", and Gabe Reilich, Head of Content at Good, share their mission to amplify kindness in the digital age. They explore how significant acts of kindness can uplift communities and enhance mental well-being. Discover practical mindfulness techniques and the transformative impact of positive narratives against the backdrop of social media's challenges. Through inspiring stories, they highlight the importance of nurturing relationships and mindful behavior to combat negativity.

Florence Williams, a journalist and author, dives into the intricacies of resilience after heartbreak. She discusses the emotional and physical impacts of heartbreak, revealing fascinating connections between pain and health. Florence shares practical strategies for healing, highlighting the transformative power of nature and beauty. She emphasizes the importance of authentic relationships in overcoming loneliness and offers insights on managing anxiety through value clarification. Her blend of personal stories with scientific findings makes this a compelling journey toward emotional strength and renewal.

Deepak Chopra, a leading voice in holistic health, dives into how AI can enhance spiritual intelligence and personal well-being. He discusses the power of Dharma and its connection to mental health, especially among youth, through initiatives like Never Alone. Chopra highlights the dual nature of technology in fostering personal development while managing anxiety and depression. He also explores the interplay between consciousness and identity, urging a mindful approach to spirituality and technology's role in our lives.

In this compelling conversation, Kelly Corrigan, an acclaimed author and podcast host, shares her journey through cancer and the power of vulnerability. She discusses strategies for curating an uplifting social media experience and the impact of technology on mental wellness. The duo explores the complexities of addiction, emphasizing personal accountability and the role of community. With insights on ordinary bravery, they inspire listeners to find courage in everyday struggles and the importance of authentic connections.

Jonathan Rosen, an American author known for his memoir "The Best Minds," discusses his profound friendship with Michael, who battles schizophrenia. He shares heartfelt stories about navigating the complexities of mental illness, revealing societal misconceptions and the impact of deinstitutionalization on community care. The conversation emphasizes the power of gratitude rituals, compassion in mental health treatment, and the therapeutic role of storytelling. Jonathan's reflections challenge our understanding of intelligence and explore the duality of human nature.

Ethan Kross, an award-winning professor and director of the Emotion and Self-Control Laboratory at the University of Michigan, shares insights on managing internal chatter. He discusses the benefits of distant self-talk for resilience and the surprising role of nature in reducing negative emotions. Kross explains techniques like mental time travel and expressive writing to navigate stress and enhance self-reflection. He emphasizes mindfulness and environmental cues as tools to tame emotional reactivity, fostering a more balanced inner dialogue.

Dr. Julie Holland, a psychiatrist and author specializing in psychopharmacology, shares fascinating insights about brain chemistry and meaningful human connections. She discusses the healing potential of MDMA for PTSD and how psychedelics can transform addiction treatment. Technology's impact on mental health is scrutinized, emphasizing the need for authentic relationships. Listeners will learn about the roles of oxytocin and vasopressin in bonding and the importance of community engagement for emotional wellness. A thought-provoking exploration into the intersection of mental health and modern connectivity!

In this engaging discussion, Mariana Alessandri, an Associate Professor of Philosophy and author of "Night Vision," shares her insights on navigating dark moods. She emphasizes the need to embrace difficult emotions without feeling broken and critiques societal pressures to maintain positivity. Listeners learn about the impact of labeling mental health and explore the integration of conflicting feelings. Alessandri encourages self-compassion and presents practical strategies for managing anxiety, promoting a deeper connection between emotions and personal growth.

In this engaging conversation, Natalie Goldberg, a renowned author and speaker celebrated for merging writing with Zen practice, shares her insights on unlocking creativity. She discusses how mindfulness enhances writing and explores the transformative power of silent retreats. The impact of the pandemic on creative processes is examined, alongside practical ways to integrate Zen principles into daily life. Goldberg also reflects on the duality of emotions in writing and the importance of community support for nurturing creativity.