On the Table with Ashley

Send us a textThe power of light is on the table today!For our latest episode of our From Brain to Home series, we are joined by Dr. Mariana Figueiro. Dr. Figueiro is the Mount Sinai Endowed Professor of Light and Health Research at the Department of Population Health Science and Policy at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and the Director of the Mount Sinai Light and Health Research Center. Her research focuses on the effects of light on human health, sustainability, circadian photobiology, and lighting for older adults. As the author of more than 140 scientific articles, Dr. Figueiro has brought attention to the significance of light and health as a topic of public interest. She joins us today to discuss the impact that lighting design has on all aspects of our lives - from our physical and mental health, to our sleep patterns and even our cognitive functioning. In this episode, Dr. Figueiro and Ashley discuss the way lighting impacts people living a variety of lives, whether it be night-shift workers, the elderly, those with jetlag, or simply people who can’t bring themselves to turn off their screens before bed. She discusses her approach to light research as a form of design, informing her work through her architecture background, and sharing all the ways big and small we can maximize light in our spaces.  Powerfully, Dr. Figueiro shares with us how lighting can impact treatments for diseases like Alzheimer's and Cancer, through a treatment approach called Chronotherapy. What results is a fascinating and at points deeply profound discussion on the simple ways that we can improve our lives by giving consideration to light.Read Dr.Figueiros Research.Listen to Dr.Figueiros TedMED talk.Read Dr.Figuerios research on Chronotherapy.Listen to Part 1 and Part 2 of our episode with Dr.Chatterjee.Read The Art of Scientific Investigation by William Beveridge.Follow On the Table with Ashley on Instagram and TikTok.On the Table with Ashley is presented by Âme Atendre, a luxury home goods and tableware brand with a mission to connect people to all that matters. If you have ideas for new episodes or guests, or just want to share feedback, email us at reachoutanytime@ameatendre.com.

Send us a textThe Psychology of Confinement is on the table today!In part 2 of this two part conversation, we are once again joined by Criminologist, Dr.Yvonne Jewkes. A Professor of Criminology at the University of Bath and honorary visiting fellow at the University of Melbourne, Yvonne Jewkes is the world's leading expert on rehabilitative prison design.Her research on prison architecture, design and technology has taken her to diverse prisons in places such as Norway, Spain and Japan. Yvonne has been honored for her role in helping to design corrections in the U.K., Ireland and Australia that prioritize a humane approach to design.Ashley and Dr.Jewkes continue their profound conversation on architecture and confinement, as Dr.Jewkes takes us through her personal journey of being confined in within the 4 walls of her house, made a personal prison by her ex-husband, who left her alone with little more thana construction site. Dr.jewkes takes us through her journey and the ways in which it informs her work, leading to a profound conversation about womanhood, agency, punishment, and humanity. Dr.Jewkes reminds us of the ways that architecture can be used to liberate as well as confine, and even those at the fringes of society should be afforded conditions humane enough to call a place home. Read the research of Dr. Yvonne Jewkes.Read An Architecture of Hope by Yvonne Jewkes.Learn about Oasis Restore Secure SchoolRead The Smell of Rain on Dust: Grief and Praise by Martín Prechtel Read Four Thousand Weeks: Time Management for Mortals by Oliver BurkemanRead I Will Never See the World Again: The Memoir of an Imprisoned Writer by Ahmet Altman.Follow On the Table with Ashley on Instagram and TikTok.On the Table with Ashley is presented by Âme Atendre, a luxury home goods and tableware brand with a mission to connect people to all that matters. If you have ideas for new episodes or guests, or just want to share feedback, email us at reachoutanytime@ameatendre.com.

Send us a textHumane Prison Architecture is on the table today!In this episode, we are joined by Criminologist, Dr.Yvonne Jewkes. A Professor of Criminology at the University of Bath and honorary visiting fellow at the University of Melbourne, Yvonne Jewkes is the world's leading expert on rehabilitative prison design.Her research on prison architecture, design and technology has taken her to diverse prisons in places such as Norway, Spain and Japan. Yvonne has been honored for her role in helping to design corrections in the U.K., Ireland and Australia that prioritize a humane approach to design. In part 1 of this 2 part episode, Dr.Jewkes dives deep into her work in prisons, taking us through the process and outcomes of progressive prisons that she has personally consulted on. She dives further into themes explored in her book, such as surveillance, humanity, and bestowing by force, even positive things, on unconsenting participants. What results is a fearless and meditative discussion on punishment vs rehabilitation, and what constitutes punishment in our society.Read the research of Dr. Yvonne Jewkes.Read An Architecture of Hope by Yvonne Jewkes.Find out more about Dr. Yvonne Jewke’s work with The Limerick Women's Prison.Find out more about Norway’s Halden Prison. Learn more about the Irish Prison Service in Wheatfield, Ireland.Learn more about the Basto Prison in Norway.Learn about Strom Prison in Denmark.Learn about the case of Anders Brevik in Norway.Follow On the Table with Ashley on Instagram and TikTok.On the Table with Ashley is presented by Âme Atendre, a luxury home goods and tableware brand with a mission to connect people to all that matters. If you have ideas for new episodes or guests, or just want to share feedback, email us at reachoutanytime@ameatendre.com.

Send us a textCreating with Family is on the table today! In the fourth episode of our From Brain to Home series, we’re joined by father-son duo Michael and Gage Upwall of Upwall Design. Based in Park City, Utah, Upwall Design is an architectural firm that creates dream homes which literally “grow” out of the earth—merging an organic, nature-inspired philosophy with modern design practices to produce structures that harmonize with their natural surroundings. Michael completed his Master of Architecture at the University of Utah in 1991 and founded Upwall Design that same year, drawing on his intimate knowledge of Utah’s unique geography to craft timeless homes. Raised in his father’s studio, Gage was immersed in design from an early age and, after exploring photography and filmmaking to hone his artistic vision, returned to architecture to become a senior designer. Together, they craft designs that honor the heritage of architecture while embracing the possibilities of new technologies.In this episode, Michale and Gage discuss the evolution of their architectural voices—from classic mountain craftsman styles to a modern organic approach that integrates seamlessly with nature—and how outdated neighborhood guidelines and shifting demographics push creative boundaries. Find out more about Upwall Design .Listen to Rick Rubin’s Podcast "Tetragrammaton".Read The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin.Read Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett.Read The Monkey Wrench Gang by Edward Abbey.Listen to From Brain to Home: How our Built Environment Impacts Who We Are with Dr. Anjan Chatterjee, Parts 1 and 2 .Follow On the Table with Ashley on Instagram and TikTok.On the Table with Ashley is presented by Âme Atendre, a luxury home goods and tableware brand with a mission to connect people to all that matters. If you have ideas for new episodes or guests, or just want to share feedback, email us at reachoutanytime@ameatendre.com.

Send us a textThoughtful home design is on the table today!In the third episode of our neuroaesthetics and design series, we’re joined by Jennelle Butera, co-founder of Hudson and Bloum Design. Since its founding in 2016, Hudson and Bloum has been a full-service interior design firm dedicated to creating tailored, thoughtful spaces that align with their clients' unique lifestyles. By collaborating with local artists and businesses, they bring a distinctive, personalized touch to every project. Their design approach strikes a careful balance between functionality and local character, resulting in spaces that feel both inviting and deeply reflective of their clients' tastes.With a diverse portfolio spanning mountain retreats to coastal homes, Jennelle and her partner, Meghan, have a keen understanding of neuroaesthetics and the vital role it plays in home design. In this episode, Jennelle shares insights into her work, the meaningful relationships she builds with clients, and the intentional use of color, lighting, and natural elements to craft spaces that are both aesthetically and emotionally enriching.Find out more about Hudson and Bloum Design.Follow Hudson and Bloum Design on Instagram.Watch Queer Eye.Visit 1stDibs.Follow On the Table with Ashley on Instagram and TikTok.On the Table with Ashley is presented by Âme Atendre, a luxury home goods and tableware brand with a mission to connect people to all that matters. If you have ideas for new episodes or guests, or just want to share feedback, email us at reachoutanytime@ameatendre.com.  

Dr. Anjan Chatterjee, a neuroscientist and professor at the University of Pennsylvania, dives into how our environments shape our well-being. He discusses the neurological impact of beauty and aesthetics on mental health, creativity, and social connections. The conversation explores the psychology of color in design, implicit biases influenced by aesthetics, and the challenges in funding research in this field. Dr. Chatterjee emphasizes that aesthetics are essential for understanding self and fostering empathetic narratives within communities.

Send us a textNeuroaesthetics is on the table today.In our inaugural episode on Neuroaesthetics and Design, we are joined by neuroscientist and author Dr. Anjan Chatterjee. Dr. Chatterjee earned his B.A. in Philosophy from Haverford College and his M.D. from the University of Pennsylvania. He is a professor of neurology at the University of Pennsylvania and the founding director of the Penn Center for Neuroaesthetics. As the author of The Aesthetic Brain: How We Evolved to Desire Beauty and Art and numerous scientific publications, his research explores the cognitive mechanisms behind aesthetic experiences and the impact of design on well-being, creativity, and decision-making.In Part 1 of this two-part episode, Dr. Chatterjee sits down with Ashley to provide a scientific framework for understanding neuroaesthetics in the context of design. He breaks down the fundamental question: What makes something beautiful? and examines whether we perceive architectural beauty the same way we appreciate other forms of beauty. He also unpacks the five-factor model and concepts like coherence, leading to a fascinating discussion on how space shapes our brains.You can learn more about Dr.Chatterjee and his research on the Penn Center for Neuroaesthetics’ website. Follow On the Table with Ashley on Instagram and TikTok.Read The Aesthetic Brain: How We Evolved to Desire Beauty and Enjoy Art by Anjan ChatterjeeRead the study Neuroaesthetics: A Coming of Age Story by Anjan ChatterjeeExplore the research of Daniel Berlyne and Edmund BurkeOn the Table with Ashley is presented by Âme Atendre, a luxury home goods and tableware brand with a mission to connect people to all that matters. If you have ideas for new episodes or guests, or just want to share feedback, email us at reachoutanytime@ameatendre.com.

Send us a textNon-traditional, holistic and full body methods of healing are On the Table Today! In this episode of On the Table with Ashley, we’re joined by Autumn Bear, a nationally board-certified acupuncturist and author with a private practice in Park City, Utah. Trained in classical Chinese medicine by Taoist master and 88th-generation practitioner Jeffery Yuen, Autumn received her Master of Science in Acupuncture from the Swedish Institute of Health Sciences in New York City. She is also currently a member of the board of the Utah Department of Professional Licensing for Acupuncture.Autumn joins Ashley to discuss how the principles of classical Chinese medicine can be applied to modern health and wellness. They delve into the philosophy behind acupuncture, its benefits, and the importance of holistic healing. Autumn shares her journey into acupuncture, the influence of her mentors, and how her practice treats people with chronic pain, including Long COVID.Tune in to gain insights into the world of acupuncture and discover how Autumn’s approach to health and living fully can help guide your approach to balance and well-being.Don’t miss this enlightening episode filled with wisdom on ancient practices for contemporary health challenges.Follow On the Table with Ashley on Instagram and TikTok.Learn more about Autumn’s practice here.Follow Autumn on Instagram and Tiktok.Read My Family and Other Animals by Gerald Durrell.Listen To This is Love Podcast.Find out more about The National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine.  On the Table with Ashley is presented by Âme Atendre, a luxury home goods and tableware brand with a mission to connect people to all that matters. If you have ideas for new episodes or guests, or just want to share feedback, email us at reachoutanytime@ameatendre.com.

Send us a textIndependently Owned Businesses are on the Table Today!In this episode of On the Table with Ashley, we’re joined by Herbert Gracia, co-owner of the street-style apparel brand, State of Flux. State of Flux is a unique space that combines retail, a workshop area, and a photo studio all under one roof. Herbert received his Bachelor of Applied Science from the University of San Francisco in Communications and Media Studies in 2005, and previously co-founded FAZE Apparel before co-founding State of Flux in 2019. Currently, Herbert is in a transition period, having just left State of Flux and considering what’s next.Herbert joins Ashley to discuss the trials and tribulations of starting a small business and maintaining it during the COVID era, the importance of passion and risk-taking in entrepreneurship, and the way that hard work, personal, and community support have sustained both himself and his brand.Follow On the Table with Ashley on Instagram and TikTok.Visit State of FluxFollow State of Flux on Instagram.Follow Herbert on Instagram and Linkedin. Listen to our episode with Salomé Cousseau. Listen to our episode with John Cohen. On the Table with Ashley is presented by Âme Atendre, a luxury home goods and tableware brand with a mission to connect people to all that matters. If you have ideas for new episodes or guests, or just want to share feedback, email us at reachoutanytime@ameatendre.com.

Send us a textIn this episode of On the Table with Ashley, we’re joined by Dan Bulf, a seasoned Death Cafe facilitator based in Evanston, IL. Dan hosted the second-ever Death Cafe workshop in 2013 and, over the years, has led countless conversations about death in hospitals, senior centers, senior living communities, and local organizations. He has also contributed to multiple studies on perceptions of death, presenting findings at conferences nationwide.Sharing insights from his own grief, Dan reflects on his decade-long career creating spaces for open, candid conversations about life, death, and grief,  and the intricacies of holding space for such vulnerable and meaningful discussions. Together, we explore how talking about death can help us connect more deeply with others, navigate grief, and remind us that we are not alone.Grief often stifles us. With this episode, and the Death + Dying series as a whole, we aim to foster open dialogue about the often uncomfortable topics of death and grief. Our hope is that, with an open heart and curiosity, we can support important causes, learn how to show up for people in our lives who are suffering, increase our meaningful connection to one another, and hopefully find more peace. No subject is off-limits in our pursuit of meaningful connection.Follow On the Table with Ashley on Instagram and TikTok.Follow Dan on Instagram Read The Four Things that Matter Most by Ira ByockRead Being Mortal: Medicine and What Matters in the End by Atul Gawande.Read The Top 5 Regrets of Dying by Bronnie WareLearn More about Death Cafes Visit Death Over Dinner by Michael HebbLearn more about ACP Planning and Person Centered CareWatch Ask A Mortician YouTube channel by Caitlin DoughtyWatch Consider the Conversation video series by Terry Kaldhusdal and Michael BernhagenOn the Table with Ashley is presented by Âme Atendre, a luxury home goods and tableware brand with a mission to connect people to all that matters. If you have ideas for new episodes or guests, or just want to share feedback, email us at reachoutanytime@ameatendre.com.