The Weekend University

Dr. Andrew Tatarsky, a pioneer in Integrative Harm Reduction Psychotherapy, shares insights from his 35-year journey in addiction treatment. He emphasizes a compassionate approach that meets clients where they are, challenging the limitations of abstinence-only methods. The conversation delves into the psychology of addiction, exploring motivations behind substance use and the importance of the therapeutic alliance. Techniques like 'urge surfing' highlight mindfulness in managing cravings, promoting healthier coping strategies without immediate demands for abstinence.

Join filmmaker and Tai Chi practitioner George Thompson, founder of Balance Is Possible!, as he shares his transformative journey from anxiety to spiritual balance through Tai Chi and Daoism. He emphasizes the importance of looking at our thoughts as messengers of unmet needs and explores the playful side of sincerity. George discusses how panpsychism shifted his relationship with the natural world, advocating for a compassionate approach to healing and integrating experiences for a balanced life. Dive into his insights on embracing uncertainty and the role of nature in personal growth.

Dr. Guy Leschziner, a leading neurologist and sleep specialist, dives into the science of sleep, revealing its vital roles in health and well-being. He discusses how studying extreme sleep behaviors, like sleepwalking, sheds light on normal brain functions. Leschziner explains the glymphatic system's detoxification during deep sleep and highlights insomnia’s intricate relationship with mental health. With practical sleep hygiene tips and insights on modern sleep challenges, he provides hope and strategies for better sleep.

Anna Runkle, bestselling author and creator of the Crappy Childhood Fairy YouTube channel, shares her journey of healing from complex PTSD. She discusses "connection wounds" and their impact on relationships. Anna highlights how trauma can lead to avoidance and isolation, revealing practical strategies for developing "connectability." A daily practice she adopted transformed her life, focusing on present actions over past traumas. She also introduces a gamification approach for building social courage and offers valuable resources to aid healing.

In this captivating discussion, philosopher and scientist Bernardo Kastrup explores the nuances of consciousness as the foundational reality. He contrasts Western and Eastern approaches to spirituality and highlights how understanding one's ancestral lineage can deepen life's meaning. Bernardo delves into the concept of the daimon as a guiding force within us and emphasizes the importance of confronting death to realign our values. He provocatively argues that understanding evil is essential to avoid moral blindness, while outlining the distinct tasks of the first and second halves of life.

Douglas M. Gillette, a renowned Jungian psychologist and co-creator of the King, Warrior, Magician, Lover framework, delves into the psyche of modern masculinity. He discusses how life is more about 'sowing' than 'harvesting' and links the contemporary crisis in male identity to evolutionary psychology. Gillette outlines the four masculine archetypes, their shadow expressions, and shares practical techniques for integrating these energies into daily life. He also emphasizes the importance of men's groups and journaling for personal growth.

In this engaging discussion, Ross Douthat, a New York Times columnist and cultural critic, delves into the rationale behind faith in a secular world. He presents the compelling case for God's existence, combining evidence from science and philosophy. Douthat explores the challenges of consciousness and critiques being 'spiritual but not religious.' He reflects on how his battle with Lyme disease transformed his spirituality, emphasizing the importance of discernment in the spiritual journey. A thought-provoking conversation for seekers of meaning!

Dr. Laurel Parnell, an internationally recognized clinical psychologist and developer of Attachment Focused EMDR, delves into the fascinating connection between EMDR therapy and spiritual experiences. She discusses how imagination plays a crucial role in healing developmental deficits and what clients experience during sessions. The conversation highlights the innovative use of bilateral stimulation devices for rapid processing of trauma, and how various EMDR techniques can help reshape negative self-perceptions into a journey of self-acceptance and personal growth.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Stan Tatkin, a leading expert in couples therapy and author of numerous bestselling books, dives into the intricate mechanics of human relationships. He reveals how procedural memory plays a crucial role in our behavior and illustrates the difference between secure functioning relationships and mere secure attachment. Dr. Tatkin also provides insights on navigating conflict with cooperative strategies, emphasizing the importance of establishing mutual agreements for lasting connections. Get ready for a deep dive into the neurobiology of thriving partnerships!

Jerry Colonna, an executive coach and founder of Reboot.io, dives into the significance of ancestral reconnection. He touches on how understanding our heritage fosters empathy and challenges societal norms, particularly the myth of meritocracy. The conversation highlights the impact of disconnection from history on feelings of belonging and safety. Colonna also addresses the stigma surrounding homelessness and addiction, calling for collective empathy. Ultimately, he emphasizes that personal transformation and leadership start with understanding our roots.