The Weekend University

Roman Krznaric is a social philosopher and bestselling author whose books have been published in more than 25 languages. He is also a Senior Research Fellow at Oxford University’s Centre for Eudaimonia and Human Flourishing and the founder of the world’s first Empathy Museum. His latest book, History for Tomorrow, explores how we can use historical lessons to confront today’s biggest challenges. Expect to learn: — The concept of "history from below" and why moving away from the “great men” narrative matters. — How 17th and 18th-century coffee houses offer a model for taming social media’s negative effects. — Insights into temporal intelligence and why long-term thinking is vital for our future. — The hidden history of the “radical flank” and how this has helped to create large scale societal breakthroughs. And more. You can learn more about Roman’s work at https://www.romankrznaric.com. --- Roman Krznaric is a social philosopher who writes about the power of ideas to create change. His internationally bestselling books including The Good Ancestor, Empathy, The Wonderbox and Carpe Diem Regained, have been published in more than 25 languages. He is Senior Research Fellow at Oxford University’s Centre for Eudaimonia and Human Flourishing and founder of the world’s first Empathy Museum. His latest book, published in July 2024, is History for Tomorrow: Inspiration from the Past for the Future of Humanity. After growing up in Sydney and Hong Kong, Roman studied at the universities of Oxford, London and Essex, where he gained his PhD in political science. Particularly known for his work on empathy and long-term thinking, his writings have been widely influential amongst political and ecological campaigners, education reformers, social entrepreneurs and designers. An acclaimed public speaker, his talks and workshops have taken him from a London prison to the TED global stage. Roman is a member of the Club of Rome and a Research Fellow of the Long Now Foundation. He previously worked as an academic, a gardener, a conversation activist and on human rights issues in Guatemala – the subject of his book What the Rich Don’t Tell the Poor. He is also a fanatical player of the medieval sport of real tennis, whose history he explores in The First Beautiful Game. --- Interview Link: — Roman’s website - https://www.romankrznaric.com

Byron Reese, a futurist and technologist, explores the concept of humanity as a conscious superorganism in his discussions. He argues that viewing ourselves as part of a larger whole can transform our interactions and urban environments. The internet is likened to humanity's 'nervous system,' enhancing connectivity. He draws parallels between cities as units of evolution and highlights the importance of kindness in society. Additionally, he emphasizes collective resilience, the evolution of moral intuition, and humanity's role as guardians of Earth.

A.J. Jacobs, a New York Times bestselling author known for his immersive nonfiction experiments, shares his creative journey. He discusses treating creativity like a muscle that can be trained through routine. Jacobs reveals how method writing shaped his career and offers tips for aspiring authors. He shares wild stories, including carrying a musket in New York City, to explore marketing within creative processes. With insights into flexible thinking, ethical meat consumption, and the essence of free speech, this conversation is a treasure trove for budding creatives.

Simon Mundie is an insightful author and BBC Sports Reporter who bridges the worlds of sports and nondual wisdom. In this fascinating conversation, he unpacks why success doesn't guarantee happiness and shares spiritual insights gleaned from elite athletes. Mundie emphasizes the importance of engaging in activities for their own sake, rather than fixating on outcomes. The discussion also touches on the transformative aspects of finding flow in sports and how interconnectedness can foster love, kindness, and a deeper understanding of our shared human experience.

Dr. Robert Glover, a seasoned therapist and relationship expert, shares his insights on 'Nice Guy Syndrome'—a mindset that often traps well-meaning men in the friend zone. He discusses the detrimental effects of early life programming and the importance of emotional tension in relationships. Glover offers practical strategies for self-soothing anxiety, emphasizes the value of vulnerability, and reveals what women truly seek in partners. His transformative approach encourages men to embrace honesty, fostering deeper connections and personal growth.

Dr. Ned Hallowell, a Harvard-trained psychiatrist and a leading authority on ADHD, shares his unique perspective on the condition. He argues that ADHD is a misnomer and highlights its surprising connection to addiction, noting that those with ADHD are significantly more prone to addiction issues. The conversation delves into the benefits of an ADHD diagnosis, practical management strategies, and the transformative power of leveraging ADHD's strengths for success. Hallowell emphasizes the importance of support and comprehensive treatment in navigating these intertwined challenges.

Steve is the Founder and Chief Compassion Officer of Organic Intelligence. For over two decades, Steve has dedicated his life to understanding and healing trauma, and his paradigm-shifting approach has impacted countless lives across the globe. Steve’s Organic Intelligence method brings together mindfulness practices with biological and systems theory to create a revolutionary new model of treatment. This interview provides an introduction to some of the core ideas and philosophies underlying the approach, and how they can be applied in healing addiction. You’ll learn: — Why, at their core, many therapies use a system of negative reinforcement and how the organic intelligence approach flips this on its head. — The counterintuitive concept of “orientation” and how it can be applied to accelerate the innate healing potential of our mind and body — Why organic intelligence offers a powerful treatment for those struggling with addiction and the importance of not doing too much, too soon, in the recovery process. And more. You can learn more about Steve’s work at: https://organicintelligence.org. --- Steven Hoskinson is an author and teacher in Post-Trauma Growth. He founded Organic Intelligence® (OI™) and has trained thousands of therapists, coaches and helping professionals worldwide. Steve is Adjunct Faculty for JFK School of Psychology at National University, International Transformational Resilience Coalition, Advisory Board Member for The Trauma Foundation, former Senior International Instructor for the SE® Trauma Institute, and has presented at professional conferences worldwide. Dedicated to empowering healers and teachers, he has created a host of programs for Post-Trauma Growth, including the OI Coach Certification program, the End of Trauma™ Course for personal resilience, and The End of Trauma Podcast. --- Interview Links: — A Non-Directive Positive Reinforcement Framework for Trauma and Addiction Treatment. International Body Psychotherapy Journal - Download for Free at https://organicintelligence.org — 5 Minute Video: "3 Misconceptions of Trauma Work" - https://youtu.be/JAUAaaMQrsg — The End of Trauma Podcast - https://www.endoftrauma.org 3 Books Steve Recommends Every Therapist Should Read: — The heroic client: A revolutionary way to improve effectiveness through client-directed, outcome-informed therapy by Duncan, B. L., Miller, S. D., & Sparks, J. A. - https://amzn.to/42FJcBy — Uncommon therapy: The psychiatric techniques of Milton H Erickson MD by Jay Haley - https://amzn.to/3pbDyJM — The job is enjoyment: The end of trauma course workbook. Self-Published, Organic Intelligence (in press) Hoskinson, S. (2023) - https://organicintelligence.org/end-of-trauma-course

Joe Polish, the Founder of Genius Network and Genius Recovery, shares his remarkable journey from addiction to becoming a leading entrepreneur. He discusses the surprising ties between entrepreneurship and addiction, emphasizing the importance of deep relationships over mere financial success. Listeners will learn how suffering can create connections, and the value of thoughtfulness in life. Polish also reflects on insights gained from a year-long sabbatical and advocates for empathy within entrepreneurial communities.

Dr. Pat Ogden, a pioneer in somatic psychology and creator of the Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Method, discusses the deep connection between our bodies and the unconscious mind. She explains how our physical sensations narrate personal stories and how childhood experiences shape our identities. The conversation covers the healing power of movement, particularly in yoga and dance, insights on societal influences on trauma, and the importance of mindfulness in therapy. Discover how recognizing our bodies can transform our understanding of trauma and identity.

Dr. Bernardo Kastrup, an author and philosopher with two PhDs, navigates the fascinating realms of UFOs, Carl Jung's writings, and the search for meaning in a secular world. He presents compelling theories on UAPs, suggesting they're more likely terrestrial than extraterrestrial. Kastrup explores how Jung’s insights from "Answer to Job" illuminate humanity's quest for purpose amid chaos. He delves into the interplay between mystery and meaning and argues that consciousness itself is key to understanding reality, urging a deeper reflection on our existence.