Lulu Wang, the acclaimed writer-director of 'The Farewell', opens up about her journey escaping the weight of family expectations. She shares how growing up as a piano prodigy molded her life until she discovered the joy in carving her own path. Through personal stories, she explores the balance between duty and passion, illustrating the complexities of immigrant life. Lulu highlights the liberation found in curiosity and creativity, emphasizing the importance of improvisation and mindfulness in discovering one’s true self.

Join entrepreneur and storyteller Keith Yamashita as he shares his harrowing experience of enduring a stroke, which marked the beginning of a profound awakening. He reflects on navigating the chaos of life while embracing vulnerability, especially through heartfelt moments with his son. Music emerges as a powerful force in his healing journey, intertwining personal discovery with family connections. Ultimately, Keith encourages listeners to ponder what truly matters in their lives, promoting self-care and introspection.

Discover the transformative journey of a shy kid from New Orleans who finds his voice through the guidance of mentors and heroes. Listen to nostalgic memories of Christmas caroling that blend joy with reflections on identity. Explore the power of mentorship in music, illustrating how influential figures can shape artistic growth. Dive into mindfulness practices that merge storytelling and music, enhancing self-awareness. Conclude with an engaging meditation, inviting personal reflection and community connection.

Zoe Lister-Jones, a talented actress, writer, and director, reflects on her journey of self-expression and empowerment. She shares her childhood experiences of feeling overshadowed by her mother’s confidence while struggling to find her own voice. Zoe candidly discusses pivotal moments from her past that challenged her self-assurance, particularly during family tensions and societal upheaval. Through these stories, she illustrates the powerful shift that can occur when one learns to trust their individuality amidst hardship.

Meredith Arthur, author of "Get Out of My Head" and creator of Beautiful Voyager, shares her journey of self-discovery after a painful wake-up call. She discusses the conflict between societal expectations and personal fulfillment, illustrating her struggle with anxiety and the pressure of success in the publishing world. Meredith highlights the importance of naming our inner fears and embracing authenticity in everyday life, ultimately revealing how self-acceptance can lead to true happiness.

Kino MacGregor, an Ashtanga yoga teacher and author, shares her unique upbringing as a half-Japanese child in South Florida. She reflects on joyful memories with her Aikido master grandfather, exploring how generational trauma shaped her identity. Through her journey, Kino highlights the healing power of Ashtanga yoga in processing grief and navigating cultural heritage. She reveals the deep emotional connection to her family's past, emphasizing mindfulness, self-exploration, and the importance of finding peace within.

Tri Robinson, an Idaho pastor who harmonizes his faith with his passion for the natural world, shares his journey of self-discovery. He discusses the challenge of disconnecting from daily routines and the urgency of environmental stewardship. Through heartfelt reflections, he reveals how personal experiences and family dialogues catalyze shifts in perspective on nature's fragility. Tri also explores the emotional weight of delivering a transformative sermon that intertwines spirituality and environmental advocacy, calling for deeper connections with the earth.

In this engaging conversation, Lang Lang, a celebrated Chinese pianist recognized for his captivating performances, shares his evolution from a prodigy in China to a true artist. He discusses the crucial role of mentorship and the significance of embracing diverse influences—music, languages, art—in his journey. A pivotal moment with a teacher reshapes his understanding of success, nudging him toward becoming an infinite student. Lang Lang emphasizes that true musicianship is about deep cultural connection and personal growth, shifting the focus from fame to continuous learning.

Judith Grisel, an esteemed behavioral neuroscientist and author of the bestseller 'Never Enough,' shares her profound journey from addiction to recovery. She reveals how a simple empty bowl became a pivotal symbol, allowing her to confront feelings of loneliness and emptiness that haunted her since childhood. The discussion dives into the transformative power of nature, the complexities of familial relationships, and the importance of embracing silence to cultivate a deeper emotional understanding. Judy's insights offer a spacious response to life’s challenges.

Otis Moss III, Senior Pastor of Trinity United Church in Chicago, blends his rich heritage of black theology and social advocacy with personal insights shaped by his late sister, Daphne. He explores how jazz serves as a powerful metaphor for cultural diversity and unity, intertwining storytelling with themes of resilience in the face of systemic racism. Moss reflects on the weight of familial love amidst mental health struggles and celebrates the artistry of language and music as tools for social justice and transformation.