The One You Feed

In part one of this two-part conversation, we walked along the edge of paradox where effort gives way to ease and the search itself becomes the obstacle. In this second part of my conversation with Zen teacher Henry Shukman, the way begins to reveal itself, not as something we grasp, but something we live. We talk about awakening, the collapse of separation, and what it means to encounter reality directly beyond language, beyond self. And we find ourselves circling the same mystery from different directions, Henry through the Zen path and his app The Way and me through a new project with Rebind, which is a new AI powered dialogue with the Tao Te Ching. Different forms, different longing to meet life more honestly, more fully and more whole.Discover a Deeper Path in Meditation – Looking for more than just another meditation app? The Way, created by Zen teacher Henry Shukman, offers a single, step-by-step journey designed to take you deeper—one session at a time. Get started today with 30 free sessions!The Tao Te Ching is one of those books I keep coming back to. Ancient wisdom, wrapped in poetry, that somehow feels more relevant every year. Like this line: “If you look to others for happiness, you will never be happy. If your well-being depends on money, you will never be content.“Simple. Clear. Actually useful.I’ve teamed up with Rebind.ai to create an interactive edition of the Tao—forty essential verses, translated into plain, everyday language, with space to reflect, explore, and ask questions. It’s like having a conversation not just with the Tao, but with me too. If you’re looking for more clarity, calm, or direction, check it out here.Key Takeaways:Exploration of meditation and mindfulness practices.Insights on the nature of thoughts and their observation during meditation.Importance of a structured approach to meditation.Personal experiences and reflections on meditation journeys.Discussion of the “inner radio” metaphor for understanding thoughts.Techniques for enhancing present-moment awareness through meditation.The significance of variety in meditation practices to cater to individual needs.The role of moderation and balance in personal growth, drawing from the Dao De Jing.The relationship between relative understanding and direct experience in Zen.The transformative potential of embracing uncertainty and interconnectedness in life.Henry Shukman is a poet, author, and meditation teacher who has guided thousands of students from around the world through mindfulness and awakening practices. A Zen master in the Sanbo Zen lineage and the spiritual director emeritus at Mountain Cloud Zen Center in Santa Fe, New Mexico, Henry is a cofounder of The Way meditation app and founder of the Original Love meditation program and has taught meditation at Google and Harvard Business School. Connect with Henry Shukman: Website | InstagramIf you enjoyed this conversation with Henry Shukman, check out these other episodes:Embrace the Chaos: Finding Clarity Through Meditation with Henry Shukman (Part 1)How to Find and Follow a Healing Path with Henry ShukmanFor full show notes, click here!Connect with the show:Follow us on YouTube: @TheOneYouFeedPodSubscribe on Apple Podcasts or SpotifyFollow us on InstagramSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Henry Shukman discusses how to embrace the chaos and find clarity through meditation while exploring themes of self-development and self-love. Henry emphasizes the balance between effort and acceptance in spiritual practice, highlighting the interplay between sudden insights (satori) and gradual progress. He also discuss the importance of understanding one’s motivation for meditation and how a clear “why” can sustain long-term practice. The episode encourages listeners to embrace all aspects of themselves and appreciate the journey of personal growth. Discover a Deeper Path in Meditation – Looking for more than just another meditation app? The Way, created by Zen teacher Henry Shukman, offers a single, step-by-step journey designed to take you deeper—one session at a time. Get started today with 30 free sessions here: www.oneyoufeed.net/theway Key Takeaways: The transformative power of meditation in personal growth. The balance between effort and acceptance in spiritual practice. The relationship between sudden insights (satori) and gradual development in meditation. The importance of understanding one’s motivation and purpose in maintaining a meditation practice. The role of structure in facilitating spiritual growth and practice. The significance of embracing all aspects of oneself, including less desirable traits. The dualities present in spiritual practice, such as self-improvement versus self-acceptance. The concept of “wu wei” or effortless effort in meditation and life. The value of recognizing life as a gift, even amidst challenges. The interplay between various meditation traditions and their contributions to a well-rounded practice If you enjoyed this conversation with Henry Shukman, check out these other episodes: How to Embrace Original Love on the Path to Awakening with Henry Shukman How to Find and Follow a Healing Path with Henry Shukman Effortless Mindfulness with Loch Kelly For full show notes, click here! Connect with the show: Follow us on YouTube: @TheOneYouFeedPod Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Follow us on Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Ryan Holiday explores navigating fear and hope and the everyday courage that shapes our lives. He unpacks how to confront our fears and how we need to do so, over and over. With great stories and insights, we are reminded that we don’t have to be fearless, we just have to begin. Key Takeaways: The concept of courage and its significance in everyday life. The relationship between courage and fear, including how to confront fears. The importance of personal agency and making choices that shape our lives. The role of vulnerability in fostering connection and understanding. Historical and contemporary examples of courage and heroism. The four cardinal virtues: courage, temperance, justice, and wisdom. The idea that courage is not just for heroes but is present in daily decisions. The impact of sharing struggles and experiences on personal and collective healing. The notion that hope requires courage, especially in the face of adversity. The importance of taking action and making decisions to overcome analysis paralysis. If you enjoyed this conversation with Ryan Holiday, check out these other episodes: Why Community and Courage Matter More Than Ever with Laura McKowen How to Overcome Cynicism and Embrace Hope with Jamil Zaki For full show notes, click here! Connect with the show: Follow us on YouTube: @TheOneYouFeedPod Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Follow us on Instagram  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Debbie Millman explores how we can use failure as fertilizer and learn to bloom again. Debbie's book and this conversation is about more than just gardening tips or tools, it's about what happens when we let ourselves be bad at something, especially later in life. Debbie opens up about learning to grow and why failure might be the richest soil we have. Whether you've ever felt stuck, afraid to try, or unsure if it's too late to start. Key Takeaways: Personal growth and development through gardening Lessons learned from failure and embracing new experiences The metaphor of gardening as a reflection of personal growth The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on personal endeavors The importance of understanding circumstances that affect growth The balance between effort and environmental conditions in achieving success The significance of being a beginner and confronting fears later in life The role of external support and accountability in personal challenges The interplay between creativity, self-worth, and professional obligations The connection between nature, personal experiences, and emotional well-being If you enjoyed this conversation with Debbie Millman, check out these other episodes: Fluke or Fate? Embracing Uncertainty to Live a Fuller Life with Brian Klaas How to Find Zest in Life with Dr. John Kaag For full show notes, click here! Connect with the show: Follow us on YouTube: @TheOneYouFeedPod Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Follow us on Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Dr. Dixon Chibanda explores from benches to breakthroughs: a new approach to mental health. He explains why storytelling, radical empathy, and solving daily-life problems often outperform medication-first approaches; how three simple steps—opening the mind, uplifting, strengthening—turn elders into community healers; and why hope, not symptom checklists, is the truest measure of success. Along the way, you’ll hear how ancestral wisdom blends with clinical science, how labels can hinder more than help, and how the very grandmothers Dixon trained ended up transforming him. Key Takeaways: Discussion on anxiety and its management through personal values and positive actions. Importance of human connection and storytelling in mental health care. Overview of the Friendship Bench initiative and its origins in Zimbabwe. Role of trained grandmothers in providing mental health support within communities. Need for accessible mental health care and addressing social determinants of health. Integration of Western psychiatric principles with African cultural practices. Significance of empathy and nonverbal communication in building therapeutic relationships. Training process for grandmothers in cognitive behavioral therapy and effective communication. Use of support groups to foster community and shared healing experiences. Emphasis on the power of storytelling and vulnerability in the therapeutic process. If you enjoyed this conversation with Dr. Dixon Chibanda, check out these other episodes: Why We Need to Rethink Mental Health with Eric Maisel Insights on Mental Health and Resilience with Andrew Solomon For full show notes, click here! Connect with the show: Follow us on YouTube: @TheOneYouFeedPod Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Follow us on Instagram  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Martha Beck explores how to move beyond anxiety and how curiosity turns fear into fuel. Martha dives into why anxiety can’t simply be silenced. It has to be replaced with things like creativity, curiosity, and a deep kindness towards ourselves. Key Takeaways: Discussion of anxiety versus fear and their psychological implications. Exploration of societal factors contributing to increased anxiety levels. Importance of living authentically and in alignment with one’s true self. The role of creativity and curiosity in overcoming anxiety. Neurological aspects of anxiety and the brain’s functions related to creativity. The concept of breakdowns leading to breakthroughs in personal growth. Practical techniques for managing anxiety through self-compassion and kindness. The significance of sensory experiences in activating creativity and reducing anxiety. The idea of a “creativity spiral” versus an “anxiety spiral” in personal development. Reflection on the power of imagination and intention in shaping one’s reality and life purpose. If you enjoyed this conversation with Martha Beck, check out these other episodes: How to Find Peace and Balance in Managing Anxiety with Sarah Wilson Why Anxiety is Good For You with Tracy Dennis-Tiwary For full show notes, click here! Connect with the show: Follow us on YouTube: @TheOneYouFeedPod Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Follow us on Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Caroline Williams shares how moving your body can free your mind as she dives into the surprising science of movement and mental health. Caroline spent years studying the brain until she realized she was ignoring half the equation. She explains how movement of all kinds, walking, stretching, dancing, and even laughter can reshape our emotional landscape. Key Takeaways: The connection between physical movement and mental health. The role of interoception in understanding bodily sensations and emotions. Evolutionary perspectives on the brain's function related to movement. The impact of physical activity on brain chemistry and emotional well-being. The importance of posture and its influence on emotional states. The benefits of strength training for mood and self-esteem. The decline in physical strength among youth and its implications for mental health. The concept of "movement snacks" and integrating small bursts of activity into daily life. The relationship between dance, rhythm, and emotional connection. The significance of breath control and its effects on relaxation and mental clarity. If you enjoyed this conversation with Caroline Williams, check out these other episodes: Understanding Choice Points for Lasting Changes in Eating and Exercise with Michelle Segar The Science of Breathing with James Nestor For full show notes, click here! Connect with the show: Follow us on YouTube: @TheOneYouFeedPod Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Follow us on Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Josh Radnor discusses the messy parts of life and embracing imperfection and growth. Josh Radnor explains how, even outward success, fame, acclaim, creative fulfillment isn’t enough to quiet the deeper battles within. He shares how real freedom comes not from achieving perfection, but from making peace with the messy, unfinished parts of ourselves. From navigating identity and public image to sitting in deep discomfort. Josh offers a powerful reminder that a meaningful life isn’t built on external measures. It’s shaped from the inside out. Key Takeaways: Discussion on the duality of human nature and the internal struggle between positive and negative traits. The significance of thoughts and actions in shaping a meaningful life. The role of time in personal growth and self-perception. The complexities of self-image and public persona. The importance of embracing imperfections and the “messy” aspects of life. Reflection on the wisdom gained from aging and life experiences. The negotiation between acceptance and action in facing life’s challenges. Insights on meditation and the emotional challenges it can provoke. The value of community and shared experiences in personal growth and healing. If you enjoyed this conversation with Josh Radnor, check out these other episodes: A Soul Boom Discussion on Mental Health, Spirituality, and Connection with Rainn Wilson Spiritual Journeys with Rainn Wilson & Reza Aslan For full show notes, click here! Connect with the show: Follow us on YouTube: @TheOneYouFeedPod Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Follow us on Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, Laura McKowen explores why community and courage matter more than ever in making change in your life. She dives into the “messy midle” – theu ncertain space between giving up what umbs us and becoming someone new. She shares the story of the Luckiest Club, a global sobriety community. Key Takeaways: Understanding that real transformation is messy Learning how sobriety isn’t the finish line, but the starting point for deeper healing Understanding why community is so important and powerful Discover fawning as a trauma response and how it shows up in life Learning to balance honesty with fear How discernment and clarity often come in conversation with others If you enjoyed this conversation with Laura McKowen, check out these other episodes: How to Tap Into the Longings of the Heart with Sue Monk Kidd A Journey to Self-Discovery and Sobriety with Matthew Quick Special Episode: Finding Hope on the Path to Sobriety For full show notes, click here! Connect with the show: Follow us on YouTube: @TheOneYouFeedPod Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Follow us on Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, David Whyte explores anxiety, beauty, and the unknown as a true map to emotional resilience. David shares how anxiety can be a doorway to deeper understanding and connection. He and Eric discuss the paradox of holding both joy and struggle, the surprising wisdom hidden in everyday emotions, and how poetry and language can bring us closer to the heart of life. This is an inspiring look at how we can build resilience by embracing life’s uncertainties. Key Takeaways: Exploration of human emotions, particularly happiness and anxiety. The duality of human emotions and the internal struggle between positive and negative qualities. Insights from David's book"Constellations Two," focusing on the rehabilitation of common words and their deeper meanings. The significance of the parable of the two wolves in understanding personal struggles. The relationship between anxiety and unspoken truths about care and vulnerability. The role of poetry in expressing and understanding complex emotions. The importance of recognizing and embracing both happiness and unhappiness in life. The concept of horizons as boundaries that inspire imagination and growth. The idea that nagging in relationships can be a form of love and care. Encouragement to engage in meaningful conversations and reflect on personal emotional landscapes. If you enjoyed this conversation with David Whyte, check out these other episodes: The Art of Poetry and Prose with David Whyte Beautiful and Powerful Poetry with Marilyn Nelson The Power of Poetry with Ellen Bass For full show notes, click here! Connect with the show: Follow us on YouTube: @TheOneYouFeedPod Subscribe on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Follow us on Instagram See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.