The Great Simplification with Nate Hagens

Join Stephen Jenkinson, a cultural activist and author specializing in grief, as he challenges Western taboos surrounding death. He shares profound insights from his work in palliative care, urging listeners to view grief as a skill rather than an affliction. The conversation explores how engaging with loss can lead to a fuller life, the disconnect between societal attitudes toward death, and the often ignored wisdom found in grief. Jenkinson's thoughts on faith, mortality, and embracing ordinary moments bring a fresh perspective on living deeply.

In this engaging discussion, Oliver Milman, an environmental correspondent at The Guardian and author of 'The Insect Crisis,' reveals the shocking decline of insect populations and its dire consequences for ecosystems and human life. He highlights the critical roles insects play in pollination and nutrient cycles, and the cascading effects of their loss. Milman explains how human activities like agriculture and climate change exacerbate the crisis, urging listeners to recognize the importance of these small creatures to our survival and the health of our planet.

A morning bike ride sparks a deep dive into how dopamine influences modern life. The discussion highlights the neuroscience behind our addiction to technology and distractions. Listeners learn about the 'ghost of dopamine past' and how it impacts our decisions and ecological behaviors. Strategies like dopamine fasting and socialization are proposed as ways to restore balance in a hyperstimulating culture. The exploration offers profound insights into navigating our potent cravings and understanding their broader societal ramifications.

Lyn Alden, an independent analyst and founder of Lyn Alden Investment Strategy, dives into the complex relationship between money, debt, and energy in today’s financial landscape. She discusses the failures of traditional economic theories like Keynesianism in addressing current realities. Lyn explores how cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Stablecoins are reshaping finance, offering alternatives amid rising debt levels. The conversation also highlights potential job market disruptions caused by AI and the importance of understanding global energy dynamics for future economic stability.

This presentation outlines nine pathways to build resilience during uncertain times. It challenges the hustle culture that prioritizes consumption over sustainability. The discussion weaves through the interconnectedness of environmental and social crises. Adopting a systems approach encourages humility and acceptance of complexity in addressing challenges. Nutrition, exercise, and mental health are highlighted as key to personal well-being. Ultimately, it advocates for community engagement and simpler living to foster a sustainable future.

Wes Carter, president of Atlantic Packaging and founder of A New Earth Project, passionately discusses the urgent need for sustainable packaging. He highlights how packaging accounts for nearly half of plastic waste and shares his personal journey toward environmental stewardship. The conversation delves into the complexities of recycling, the potential of biodegradable materials, and the importance of integrating health into business practices. Carter also emphasizes enlightened leadership and personal transformation as vital for driving real change in an environmentally challenged world.

This week, fascinating insights connect corn sweat to rising wet bulb temperatures, highlighting environmental challenges. The timeline of coral bleaching events serves as a stark reminder of urgent climate threats. There's a thought-provoking discussion on the concept of a climate-induced credit crunch affecting the financial sector. Plus, recent copper tariffs spark intrigue about their broader implications. Interestingly, mental health concerns are explored, revealing a notable increase among liberal-minded individuals, especially women.

Josh Farley, an ecological economist and professor at the University of Vermont, explores how mainstream economic theories often create a disconnect with reality. He challenges the notion that humans are solely self-interested and critiques GDP as a flawed measure of well-being. Farley emphasizes the need for a new economic framework prioritizing social cooperation and ecological health. The conversation navigates myths about money, market values, and the role of cultural evolution, calling for a shift toward values that nurture community and sustainability.

Nate reflects on the essential human experiences he would value from a future perspective. He examines the tension between societal influences and personal desires, urging listeners to consider what truly matters in life. From love and purpose to community and connection with nature, he highlights the importance of meaningful aspirations over superficial goals. The conversation prompts deeper reflection on what we really want out of life, challenging us to prioritize enduring values as we navigate an ever-changing world.

John Seed, a longtime activist and co-author of "Thinking Like a Mountain," joins Skye Cielita Flor, a teacher and herbalist, to explore the transformative power of grief. They discuss how facing grief can deepen our connection to nature and propel environmental activism. Rituals, like the 'Council of All Beings,' help people reclaim their ecological identity. The conversation emphasizes the importance of community in healing and processing emotions, offering practices that nurture empathy and gratitude in our relationship with the more-than-human world.