The Courageous Life

Today we're continuing our four-part series on the power of compassion with a deep, insightful, and moving conversation between Dr. Jacinta Jiménez and Dr. James Doty. Each episode in this series showcases a powerful duo made up of a leading researcher and practitioner who will explore themes related to compassion, courage, and living with a more open, kind, and loving stance toward the world. If you happened to miss part one with Dr. Barbara Fredrickson and Sharon Salzberg you can go back and listen to it anytime. It's become one of the most popular conversations in the show's history and we hope you enjoy part two just as much! In today’s episode: How moving from fear to love can be a powerful catalyst for wellbeing, performance, and flourishing in life and workA personal story from Jacinta about the power of having someone who sees you, and creates spaces for belongingThe research backed benefits of belonging, compassion, and kindness The argument for compassion and kindness at work and how these qualities can both fit into, and enhance, performance culturesHow qualities like compassion, empathy, and altruism can be learnedTools for practicing compassion in daily lifeLeadership practices for creating environments of careAnd more!Compassion Cultivation Training with Joshua begins July 12, 2024Intrigued at the idea of strengthening compassion, courage, and resilience? I am teaching an 8-week training originally developed at Stanford and includes evidence-based meditation techniques, interactive discussions, and lectures.For more: practicingcourage.com/cctDid you find this episode inspiring? We think you'll love these conversations too:The Power of Compassion Pt 1 | Sharon Salzberg and Barbara FredricksonUsing Neuroscience to Manifest a Kinder, Better World | James DotyInto the Magic Shop | James DotyMore about Dr. Doty:James R. Doty, M.D. is an Adjunct Professor and the Founder & Director of the Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE) at Stanford University. As the Director of CCARE, he has spearheaded research projects on compassion and altruism, and their relationship to the brain. He is also an inventor, entrepreneur and philanthropist. He is the NYT bestselling author of Into the Magic Shop: A Neurosurgeon’s Quest to Discovery the Mysteries of the Brain and the Secrets of the Heart. More about Dr. Jiménez:Jacinta Jiménez, (also known as “Dr. J”) is an award-winning Stanford-trained Psychologist and Board-Certified Leadership Coach with a 20+ year career dedicated to the betterment of individuals, leaders, and top organizations in Silicon Valley and throughout the world. Sought-after for her expertise bridging the fields of psychology and leadership she regularly contributes to international news and TV outlets, including CNN/HLN, Business Insider, Forbes, Harvard Business Review, and Fast Company. Her book, The Burnout Fix debuted as #1 New Release on Amazon, has been recognized by Business Insider as a top book to read about burnout, and was the winner in getAbstract’s prestigious 2021 International Book of the Year Reader's Choice Award.  More about Dr. J: drjacintajimenez.comSupport the show

Over the next four weeks on the Courageous Life podcast we will be re releasing a 4-part series on the Power of Compassion. Yesterday we began with Part One, a powerful and moving conversation with Positive Psychology Pioneer Dr. Barbara Fredrickson and world renowned meditation teacher Sharon Salzberg.To complement these conversations over the coming weeks I will be sharing some of the most potent practices I’ve come across for opening the heart, and accessing more courage and compassion. And if you are interested in a deeper more experiential dive into these insights and practices I  would encourage you to join me on July 12th, as I will be teaching an 8 week course on cultivating compassion. Learn more by heading to practicingcourage.com/cctToday's practice is is the first of these and is all about finding common ground when it's hard. This may include times where we are engaged in heated conversations over divisive issues, or simply find ourselves in conversations where vastly different and conflicting views are present. The big questions are:When these moments arise, how can we practice with them? How might we get better at recognizing the patterns of thoughts and sensations that may be leading to separation, isolation, and othering?And when we do, how might we find common ground again as we increase our capacity to connect with others when it’s difficult?These are questions with no easy answers. And yet with intentionality, and a willingness to practice there is a possibility of opening to greater empathy, civility, and compassion as we return to our shared common humanity. Today's practice will offer one way to realize this possibility in our lives, our work, and our relationships.Curious to explore this topic further? Here are some conversations on the podcast we think you'll love:Building Bridges Back to Each Other | Juliana TafurFinding Our Way Home to Belonging | Jerry ColonnaRediscovering the Art of Constructive Dialogue | Dr. Mylien DuongThank you for your practice today!I look forward to continuing together next Thursday!-JoshuaWant these practices delivered via text? If you are located in the U.S. text the word COURAGE to 805-430-6801 to join Joshua's text community and you'll get a text once/week with a link directly to the practice. Looking for more practice opportunities? Check out:Free Meditation Events - 60 minute community gatherings with Joshua held 2x a month over zoom.The Practice Pass - An annual membership that gives you on-demand access to robust practice experiences including the 28-Day Practicing Courage Challenge, The 5-Day Transforming Stress Challenge and the brand NEW Creativity Challenge.Past Practicing Courage episodes in the podcast feedThe FREE Practice LibrarySupport the show

Today we’re relaunching a 4-part series on the power of compassion. We originally released this series of conversations last season as we brought together some of the world's leading researchers and practitioners to take a deep dive into compassion, courage, and living with a more open and loving stance toward the world.Throughout this series you'll be exposed to some of the most intriguing findings coming out of compassion science, emotion science, psychology, and research on leadership and in organizations. Additionally, these conversations will explore the fierce and courageous forms of compassion that are often less elevated in mainstream discussions of this ancient virtue.Forms of courage and compassion that can show up when we begin addressing challenging questions like:  How we might open ourselves up and stay curious in heated conversations?How we might fight for what we care about from a place of love?What does it look like to work wisely with anger, and engage constructively across difference?How can we keep our heart open in the face of suffering and come from a place of responsiveness vs. reactivity.And how we might leverage these qualities to find balance, resilience, and courage in the face of uncertainty?In today's part one conversation you’ll be exposed to the incredible work of emotion scientist Dr. Barbara Fredrickson and world renowned meditation teacher Sharon Salzberg.Highlights from the episode include:How Barb and Sharon began their work together How Sharon’s deep expertise on lovingkindness and contemplative practices have influenced Barb’s conception of love A new definition of love that focuses on micro-moments of connection Why love is the state where the most learning, growth, and expansion occur Practical strategies for opening the heartDetails on groundbreaking research that Barb and her team are working onSharon will offer an overview of Lovingkindness and some of her latest thinking on this ancient practiceWhy compassion is so important nowIf you are intrigued at the idea of strengthening compassion, courage, and resilience I am teaching an 8-week training which begins Friday July 12th 2024. It includes evidence-based meditation techniques, interactive discussions, and lectures as well as real-world exercises to put learning into practice.For more check out practicingcourage.com/cctMore about Barb and Sharon:Dr. Barbara Fredrickson is Kenan Distinguished Professor of Psychology and Award-winning Director of the Positive Emotions and Psychophysiology Lab at the University of North Carolina. Her research reveals how micro-moments of love and other forms of positivity nourish your health, wisdom, and longevity. One of the most highly-cited contributors to psychological science, her contributions have influenced scholars and practitioners worldwide. Her work has been featured in the New York Times, The Economist, CNN, NPR, PBS, and Oprah Magazine. Sharon Salzberg is a meditation pioneer, world-renowned teacher, and New York Times bestselling author. She is one of the first to bring mindfulness and lovingkindness meditation to mainstream American culture over 45 years ago, inspiring generations of meditation teachers and wellness influencers. Sharon is the author of twelve books, including the NYT bestseller, Real Happiness. The book we explore themes from in today’s conversation is: Real Life: The Journey from Isolation to Openness and Freedom. For more on Sharon visit www.sharonsalzberg.comSupport the show

Whether it’s presenting, facilitating, sharing in a large meeting, hosting, or some other form of being in the spotlight,Speaking in public is one of people's greatest fears which may show up in various forms:DoubtFeeling anxious or nervousOver-focusing on oneselfThe list goes on. So today, we are re-releasing one of the most popular practices we've ever done, which addresses working with these fears by making a mindset shift from performance to curiosity.If you have a moment where you will be speaking, interviewing, facilitating, coaching, hosting, or just generally interacting…and you find yourself getting nervous.Give this a try, and see if it helps.Curious to explore this topic further? Here are some conversations on the podcast we think you'll love:The Six Word Novel - I Died and Now I'm Back | Kevin CashmanLeadership From the Inside Out | Kevin CashmanUnlocking the Mindset of a Champion | Shane O'SullivanThank you for your practice today!I look forward to continuing together next Thursday!-JoshuaWant these practices delivered via text? If you are located in the U.S. text the word COURAGE to 805-430-6801 to join Joshua's text community and you'll get a text once/week with a link directly to the practice. Looking for more practice opportunities? Check out:Free Meditation Events - 60 minute community gatherings with Joshua held 2x a month over zoom.The Practice Pass - An annual membership that gives you on-demand access to robust practice experiences including the 28-Day Practicing Courage Challenge and The 5-Day Transforming Stress Challenge. Past Practicing Courage episodes in the podcast feedThe FREE Practice LibrarySupport the show

How do we find the courage to create?The courage to listen to, and follow our heart? Particularly when that means living a life that may not follow the beaten path?And how might we expand our capacity to hold more than one emotion at a time, accepting and embracing the messy experience of being human, and the inevitable ups and downs of the creative process?Today we will dive into these questions as we explore how art, and creative expression, may offer a path for living into the answers. We'll also discuss the practice of returning to that unabashed childlike boldness for bringing our artistic potential into the world. Remember that? That simple, and very human, practice of creativity (without apology or inhibition). A practice that can lead to feeling more fully alive.Today’s guest is the incredibly talented artist, designer, and educator, Rukmini Poddar. Our conversation is deep but playful, moving at times, and practical as Rukmini shares a variety of helpful insights from her extensive experiences creating and teaching art, and facilitating workshops that foster greater emotional intelligence, wisdom, and compassion. Enjoying the show? Please rate it wherever you listen to your podcasts!Did you find this episode inspiring? Here are other conversations we think you'll love:Giving Everyone Permission to Feel | Dr. Marc BrackettReclaiming Our Freedom, Energy, and Power | Dr. Emma SeppäläMore about Rukmini:Rukmini Poddar is the author of  Draw Your Feelings: A Creative Journal to Help Connect with Your Emotions through Art. She has found her creative voice in participating in the #100DayProject for over 9 consecutive years and has grown her instagram community to over 100,000 followers. She is best known for her drawings that give life to her emotions. She teaches people how to draw their emotions and leads workshops with corporate teams, schools, and large gatherings of over 400+ people.For more on Rukimini please follow her instagram @rockinruksi, or check out her website at dearruksi.com. You can pick up a copy of her book, Draw Your Feelings wherever books are sold. Thanks for listening!Support the show

Yesterday we released a Courageous Life conversation with Dr. James Doty.Together we explored themes from his new book: Mind Magic The Neuroscience of Manifestation and How it Changes Everything.In both the book and our conversation Dr. Doty challenges the popular narrative around manifestation, A narrative that has narrowly emphasized outward success, materialism, and individual benefit.As an alternative James calls upon his work as a neurosurgeon, neuroscientist, and leader in the field of compassion science, As he invites us into a deep exploration of how our brains work, And what happens when we pair their full power with the intention for a kinder, better world. What I appreciate so much about this new book, and the work Dr. Doty has done over his career is, that he continues to offer evidence-based practices that can change the structure of our brain. These Practices harness the power of attention, meditation, visualization, and compassion. He argues that over time and with dedication they can support us in moving through the world in ways that help us see clearly—reclaiming our agency, realizing our dreams, and reaching out to help others along the path.Toward the end of our time together I  asked James if he would offer a guided practice that could be used as a starting point for anyone who is looking to begin manifesting more of what they want in their lives. What he offered is truly a place to begin, and serves as the practice for today. For more on the manifestation process, including a 6 week program that Dr. Doty created with more practices like this, you can pick up a copy of Mind Magic wherever books are sold. And be sure to check out the conversation with James (if you haven't already):Using Neuroscience to Manifest a Kinder, Better World | Dr. James DotyThank you for your practice. I look forward to continuing together next Thursday!-JoshuaWant these practices delivered via text? If you are located in the U.S. text the word COURAGE to 805-430-6801 to join Joshua's text community and you'll get a text once/week with a link directly to the practice. Looking for more practice opportunities? Check out:Free Meditation Events - 60 minute community gatherings with Joshua held 2x a month over zoom.The Practice Pass - An annual membership that gives you on-demand access to robust practice experiences including the 28-Day Practicing Courage Challenge and The 5-Day Transforming Stress Challenge. Past Practicing Courage episodes in the podcast feedThe FREE Practice LibrarySupport the show

For decades the practice of manifestation has been widely dismissed as self-involved, materialistic pseudoscience. Today, neuroscientist and founder of the Center for Compassion at Stanford, Dr. James Doty is back on the podcast for the 3rd time. This time to discuss what he calls an antithesis to this popular narrative around manifestation, which narrowly emphasizes outward success and individual benefit.During our conversation, and in his new book: Mind Magic The Neuroscience of Manifestation and How it Changes Everything, he will invite us into a deep conversation about how our brains work, and what happens when we pair their full power with the intention for a kinder, better world. What I appreciated so much about this book, and the work Dr. Doty has done over his career is that he continues to offer evidence-based practices that can change the structure of our brains by harnessing the power of attention, meditation, visualization, and compassion. He argues that over time and with dedication they can support us in moving through the world in ways that help us see clearly—reclaiming our agency, realizing our dreams, and reaching out to help others along the path.In today's episode James will share:Why it’s important to reflect on what you have been manifesting in your life already (as a starting point).Ways to shift what you’re manifesting if you’re not finding the fulfillment and meaning you've been yearning for.Some of his story of learning to manifest, including how and why his initial way of practicing, which yielded a lot of material success, ultimately left him feeling empty and unfulfilled.Insight into manifesting with an open heart and practices that support doing so.Highlights from the neuroscience of manifestation including why cultivating calm and setting a compassionate intention lead to our brain networks working at their full potential.Insight about ways to work with mental barriers that can arise in the manifestation process such as fear, shame, and doubt.How childhood experiences can influence our ability to practice manifestation Why manifestation isn’t a quick fix, and why it’s important to start smallA brief guided practice for manifestation.Enjoying the show? Please share with friends, and rate it wherever you listen to your podcasts. Did you find this episode inspiring? Here are other conversations we think you'll love:Moving from Fear to Love | Dr. James Doty and Dr. Jacinta JiménezReclaiming Our Freedom, Energy, and Power | Dr. Emma SeppäläInto the Magic Shop | Dr. James DotyMore about James:James R. Doty, MD, is a neurosurgeon, neuroscientist, adjunct professor at Stanford University, and the director of the Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education (CCARE). He serves on the board of a number of nonprofits and is the former chairman of the Dalai Lama Foundation. He is the host of the Into the Magic Shop podcast, which is also the title of his beloved and bestselling first book. His new book titled Mind Magic: The Neuroscience of Manifestation and How It Changes Everything is out now. You can find it wherever books are sold. For more, please visit jamesrdotymd.com.Thanks for listening!Support the show

Yesterday we released a moving Courageous Life conversation with Juliana Tafur.Juliana is a journalist, award winning documentary filmmaker, and bridge builder. She serves as the Program Director for the Greater Good Science Center’s Bridging Differences initiative. During our time together she shared shared some of her story, and insights from her incredible work as we explored the art and science of listening in ways that lead to: Meaningful connectionDeeper relationshipsAnd ultimately that build bridges across difference. Today I’d like build on that conversation and dig further into how we can find ways to connect. Particularly when it’s difficult.Given that we’re human, imperfect, and not always at our best (at least speaking for myself) this idea of finding ways to connect when it’s difficult, when we are in conversations that are charged, or there’s reactivity etc…Can be quite a useful inquiry to explore. Today's practice will infuse a blend of storytelling, research backed insights from leading organizational scholars, and simple ways to deepen self-awareness and tap into more empathy, understanding, and compassion.For more ways to have constructive conversations, including insights and practices for connecting across difference, check out the conversation with Juliana Tafur (if you haven't already):Building Bridges Back to Each Other | Juliana TafurLearn more about Juliana's award winning documentary Listen at listencourageously.comThank you for your practice. I look forward to continuing together next Thursday!-JoshuaWant these practices delivered via text? If you are located in the U.S. text the word COURAGE to 805-430-6801 to join Joshua's text community and you'll get a text once/week with a link directly to the practice. Looking for more practice opportunities? Check out:Free Meditation Events - 60 minute community gatherings with Joshua held 2x a month over zoom.The Practice Pass - An annual membership that gives you on-demand access to robust practice experiences including the 28-Day Practicing Courage Challenge and The 5-Day Transforming Stress Challenge. Past Practicing Courage episodes in the podcast feedThe FREE Practice LibrarySupport the show

How does it feel to be seen? What is it like to be listened to in a way that you feel deeply understood? How often have you listened to others in this way? And, how often have you been listened to like this? In his book, Caring Enough to Confront, David Augsberger writes:"Being heard is so close to being loved that for the average person they are almost indistinguishable."During our time together Juliana Tafur shared this beautiful quote with me as we explored the art and science of listening in ways that lead to meaningful connection, deeper relationships, understanding, empathy, and compassion. And ultimately how we can build bridges across difference. In this beautiful and practical conversation Juliana will share some of her story, insights from her work as a journalist, documentary filmmaker, and Program Director for the Greater Good Science Center’s Bridging Differences Program. Highlights include:A framework for compassionate listeningThe importance of giving ourselves and others grace while engaging in the imperfect and messy process of constructive dialogueWhy opening the heart across difference begins with tuning into selfDiscerning when to engage in constructive dialogue and when it’s safer, and wiser, not to. The power of asking questions from a place of genuine curiosityLetting go of winning as a fundamental practice of effective listeningWhy listening is an act of courageThe importance of recognizing and appreciating complexity in other people’s stories, and lived experiences Ways to quiet the ego in tough conversations including recognizing our common humanityIf you find today’s conversation intriguing check out the Bridging Differences Program at the Greater Good Science Center at UC Berkeley as they offer a a lot of free resources including the Bridging Differences Playbook. Did you find this episode inspiring? Here are other conversations we think you'll love:Rediscovering the art of constructive dialogue | Dr. Mylien DuongPracticing the art of principled rebellion | Dr. Todd KashdanIs curiosity a superpower? | Dr. Jud BrewerMore about Juliana:Juliana Tafur is the program director for GGSC’s Bridging Differences Program, applying her experience as social entrepreneur and founder of Listen Courageously, and as Emmy-nominated senior television producer and award-winning documentary filmmaker. Juliana creates resources rooted in science to bridge political and cultural divides. She also forges strategic partnerships across sectors—government, education, philanthropy, and public service—and oversees communities of practice, to ensure bridge-building skills and resources reach people and strengthen social cohesion across the US. As a Colombian-American devoted to listening to bridge what divides us (as seen on her TEDx talk), fostering a broader culture of belonging—through dialogue, connections, and understanding—is her life’s mission.Support the show

In yesterday’s Courageous Life episode with Dr. Todd Kashdan, the author ofThe Art of Insubordination, we unpacked the recipe for what he calls, principled rebellion:A courageous practice of going against the stream, Challenging conformity and questioning conventional ideas.But doing so from a place of heart. Rebelling in ways that are generative as opposed to destructive. Along these lines, Todd offered practical research-backed insights into how we can dissent in ways that lead to:Being heard, Making change, And effectively defying an unhealthy status quo.  As part of our conversation we explored the courage it takes to be a principled rebel, including how these moments, when we push back against conformity, often bring with them a good deal of discomfort.Today’s practice will hone in on a simple way we can get better at skillfully working with discomfort. And how doing so can be part of our preparation to speak up and push back with courage, wisdom, and heart, When it matters. For more ways to dissent and defy effectively check out the conversation with Todd Kashdan (if you haven't already):Practicing the Art of Principled Rebellion | Dr. Todd KashdanOr  pick up a copy of his book: The Art of Insubordination: How to Dissent and Defy EffectivelyThank you for your practice. I look forward to continuing together next Thursday!-JoshuaWant these practices delivered via text? If you are located in the U.S. text the word courage to 805-430-6801 to join Joshua's text community and you'll get a text once/week with a link directly to the practice. Looking for more practice opportunities? Check out:Free Meditation Events - 60 minute community gatherings with Joshua held 2x a month over zoom.The Practice Pass - An annual membership that gives you on-demand access to robust practice experiences including the 28-Day Practicing Courage Challenge and The 5-Day Transforming Stress Challenge. Past Practicing Courage episodes in the podcast feedThe FREE Practice LibrarySupport the show