The Mind Mate Podcast

In episode 211 of the "Mind Mate" podcast, I sit down with my friend Ian Cattanach for an engaging discussion. We delve into the profound ideas of Jordan Peterson, Martin Heidegger, Cormac McCarthy, and David Foster Wallace. Together, we explore the intersection of philosophy, literature, and psychology, shedding light on how these influential thinkers grapple with themes of meaning, existence, and human nature. Ian and I share our thoughts on how these ideas resonate in today's world, making for a rich and thought-provoking conversation. Join us as we navigate the complexities of these remarkable minds and their contributions to our understanding of life and consciousness. *** Welcome to The Mind Mate Podcast, where philosophy meets psychology! We delve into the depths of existentialism and various meaning structures from east to west—both religious and cultural—as well as exploring the intersection of phenomenology, psychological science, art and mental health, blending philosophical insight with therapeutic practice. Expect to hear from philosophers, therapists, artists and academics navigating the frontiers of what it means to be human. Tom, your host, is a counsellor and psychotherapist who specialises in existential concerns and relationships. He is also a writer who enjoys exploring the ideas that emerge in therapy to help people live meaningful lives. Find out more here: https://ahern.blog/

In this episode of the Mind Mate podcast, Tom and Aaron, both experienced psychotherapists, engage in a deep and dynamic discussion about the varying approaches to psychotherapy. Tom and Aaron explore the nuances of existential psychotherapy, highlighting its focus on personal meaning, freedom, and the human condition. They contrast this with clinical and research-based therapies, which emphasise empirical evidence, structured techniques, and measurable outcomes. The conversation delves into the emerging field of psychedelic therapy, examining its potential benefits and the challenges it presents. Aaron, with his extensive experience, shares insights into how psychedelics can facilitate profound therapeutic breakthroughs, while Tom provides a balanced perspective on the need for rigorous clinical research and safety protocols. Additionally, they tackle the crucial topic of relapse prevention, offering strategies and insights from both existential and clinical viewpoints. Through their engaging dialogue, Tom and Aaron provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of these diverse therapeutic modalities, shedding light on how they can be integrated to support clients’ mental health journeys. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolving landscape of psychotherapy and the innovative approaches that are shaping its future.

Welcome back to the Mind Mate podcast! In this episode, Tom and Pauly dive into a lively discussion, blending humour and insight as they explore Jonathan Haidt's new book, "The Anxious Generation." Together, they unpack the book's themes, shedding light on the growing anxiety among today's youth and the societal factors contributing to this trend. The conversation then shifts to the challenges and joys of parenting in the modern era. With a mix of personal anecdotes and thoughtful analysis, Tom and Pauly discuss how modern technology and social media impact both parents and children. They offer practical advice for navigating the digital landscape, emphasising the importance of balance and mindful engagement. As the episode progresses, the discussion turns to the art of writing novels. Tom and Pauly share their experiences, offering tips and tricks for aspiring writers. They delve into the creative process, the importance of authenticity in storytelling, and the challenges of balancing writing with everyday life. Tune in for a fun, engaging, and thought-provoking episode that offers valuable insights for parents, writers, and anyone interested in understanding the complexities of our modern world.*** Welcome to The Mind Mate Podcast, where philosophy meets psychology! We delve into the depths of existentialism and various meaning structures from east to west—both religious and cultural—as well as exploring the intersection of phenomenology, psychological science, art and mental health, blending philosophical insight with therapeutic practice. Expect to hear from philosophers, therapists, artists and academics navigating the frontiers of what it means to be human. Tom, your host, is a counsellor and psychotherapist who specialises in existential concerns and relationships. He is also a writer who enjoys exploring the ideas that emerge in therapy to help people live meaningful lives. Find out more here: https://ahern.blog/

William Flesch is the author, most recently, of Comeuppance: Costly Signaling, Altruistic Punishment, and Other Biological Components of Fiction (Harvard, 2008), and The Facts on File Companion to 19th Century British Literature. He teaches the history of poetry as well as the theory of poetic and narrative form at Brandeis, and has been International Chair Professor at the National Taipei University of Technology (2012) and Old Dominion Fellow of the Humanities Council and Visiting Professor at Princeton (2014-15). *** The Mind Mate podcast provides listeners with tools and ideas to get to know themselves. Psychology-based with an existential twist, the podcast delves into topics ranging from philosophy, spirituality, creativity, psychedelia and, of course, the meaning of life! Your host Tom is a counsellor and psychotherapist who specialises in existential concerns and relationships. He is also a writer who enjoys exploring the ideas that emerge in therapy to help people live meaningful lives. Find out more here: https://ahern.blog/

Dr Julien Tempone-Wiltshire is a senior lecturer in counselling and psychotherapy, who also works as a psychotherapist specialising in complex trauma. Julien holds a PhD in Philosophy and Literature, a Master of Social Work, a Bachelors of Psychotherapy and a Bachelor of Philosophy and Science (1st Honours, ANU). He has previously worked as a lecturer in social work and integrative psychotherapy. He is also a published author with academic research interests concerning grief, trauma and contemplative studies, indigenous philosophy, psychological practice, philosophy of mind and cognitive science, amongst other subjects. *** The Mind Mate podcast provides listeners with tools and ideas to get to know themselves. Psychology-based with an existential twist, the podcast delves into topics ranging from philosophy, spirituality, creativity, psychedelia and, of course, the meaning of life! Your host Tom is a counsellor and psychotherapist who specialises in existential concerns and relationships. He is also a writer who enjoys exploring the ideas that emerge in therapy to help people live meaningful lives. Find out more here: https://ahern.blog/

Kathleen Higgins is Professor of Philosophy at the University of Texas at Austin. Her main areas of research are aesthetics, philosophy of emotion, philosophy of music, and 19th-century and 20th century continental philosophy (in particular, the works of Arthur Schopenhauer and Friedrich Nietzsche). She is author or co-author of eight books, including, most recently, Aesthetics in Grief and Mourning (University of Chicago Press, 2024). She is also editor or co-editor of numerous other books, on such topics world philosophy, Nietzsche, German Idealism, ethics, erotic love, and the philosophy of Robert C. Solomon. *** The Mind Mate podcast provides listeners with tools and ideas to get to know themselves. Psychology-based with an existential twist, the podcast delves into topics ranging from philosophy, spirituality, creativity, psychedelia and, of course, the meaning of life! Your host Tom is a counsellor and psychotherapist who specialises in existential concerns and relationships. He is also a writer who enjoys exploring the ideas that emerge in therapy to help people live meaningful lives. Find out more here: https://ahern.blog/

Hey guys, welcome back to The Mind Mate Podcast! I'm your host, Tom Ahern, and in today's episode, we're diving deep into the fascinating world of psychotherapy through the eyes of two legendary figures: Carl Rogers and Irvin Yalom. Carl Rogers, the mastermind behind client-centred therapy, has revolutionised the way we think about the therapeutic process. One of his most famous quotes is, "The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change." Today, we'll explore how Rogers' emphasis on unconditional positive regard, empathy, and authenticity creates a nurturing environment where clients can truly thrive and discover their genuine selves. On the flip side, we have Irvin Yalom, a pioneer in existential psychotherapy, who brings a unique perspective on the human condition. Yalom's approach is deeply rooted in addressing fundamental human concerns like death, freedom, isolation, and meaning. He beautifully encapsulates his philosophy with the quote, "The therapist is the fellow traveler, not a master or superior; the aim is to guide the patient on a journey of self-discovery." We'll discuss how his collaborative and humanistic approach helps individuals navigate their existential journeys.In this episode, I'll be breaking down the core principles of both Rogers' and Yalom's therapeutic goals, and how their insights can help us achieve greater self-understanding, acceptance, and fulfilment. Whether you're a therapist, a psychology enthusiast, or someone keen on personal growth, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration.So, sit back, relax, and join me as we uncover the transformative potential of therapy with the wisdom of Carl Rogers and Irvin Yalom. *** The Mind Mate podcast provides listeners with tools and ideas to get to know themselves. Psychology-based with an existential twist, the podcast delves into topics ranging from philosophy, spirituality, creativity, psychedelia and, of course, the meaning of life! Your host Tom is a counsellor and psychotherapist who specialises in existential concerns and relationships. He is also a writer who enjoys exploring the ideas that emerge in therapy to help people live meaningful lives. Find out more here: https://ahern.blog/

Welcome to the latest episode of The Mind Mate Podcast! Today, we're diving deep into one of my favourite books, "The Creative Act" by the legendary Rick Rubin. Known for his transformative work in the music industry, Rubin has distilled decades of creative insights and wisdom into this compelling guide, making it an essential read for anyone looking to unlock their creative potential. In this episode, I’ll share my thoughts on the book’s most profound lessons and explore how Rubin’s philosophies can inspire and elevate our own creative journeys. From understanding the importance of vulnerability and authenticity to embracing the unexpected in our work, "The Creative Act" offers invaluable perspectives that resonate far beyond the realm of music production. Whether you're a seasoned artist or just beginning to explore your creative side, Rubin's insights provide a fresh and inspiring framework for thinking about creativity. Join me as we delve into the key takeaways from this remarkable book and discuss how we can apply these principles to our own lives. Get ready to be inspired, challenged, and motivated to take your creativity to new heights. Tune in and let’s embark on this creative adventure together!

In this enlightening discussion, social psychologist Jeff Greenberg, professor Sheldon Solomon, and psychologist Tom Pyszczynski, pioneers of Terror Management Theory, explore how we cope with the fear of death. They delve into the origins of their groundbreaking theory and its profound implications for human behavior and culture. The trio discusses the interplay of worldview, self-esteem, and existential concerns, while also examining the relevance of TMT in today's political landscape, urging listeners to embrace mortality and pursue meaningful lives.

John Powers currently holds a joint position at the University of Melbourne in the School of Historical and Philosophical Studies and the Contemplative Studies Centre. He is a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Humanities and author of 20 books and more than 100 articles, mainly on Buddhism and Tibetan history.