Are you finding it harder and harder to focus? If so, it’s not your fault—and you’re certainly not alone. When we’re striving for positive change, whether in our personal lives or on social issues, being able to remain focused on our goals is key. But a multitude of factors in our modern world are making it ever more challenging for us to do so. In this week’s episode, New York Times best-selling author Johann Hari joins Melanie to discuss his own personal journey to find his focus, what he discovered when he investigated the causes of the issue for his book Stolen Focus, and the steps we can all take toward regaining control of our own attention. Learn more about Johann Hari’s book Stolen Focus at stolenfocusbook.com. Discover his other work at johannhari.com.  Check out the work of the Center for Humane Technology at humanetech.com.  Follow Johann on social media: Twitter Facebook Instagram Follow Just Beings on social media: Instagram  Facebook Twitter This episode was edited by Andrew Sims.

In this episode of Just Beings, Dave and Steve Flynn of The Happy Pear join Evanna and Melanie to discuss how they made the journey from opening a humble fruit and veg shop in Ireland to building a community of over 1 million people living healthier lives. This uplifting conversation dives deep into the benefits and challenges of being optimistic in life and work, the power of following our curiosity, and the energy, motivation, and joy that come from being mission-driven and working in service of others. Learn more about Dave and Steve’s work at thehappypear.ie. Check out their books here.  Join them for swimrise on the beach in Greystones, Ireland, at sunrise every day! (For more information, see here.) Follow them on social media: Instagram Facebook YouTube Twitter Follow Just Beings on social media: Instagram  Facebook Twitter This episode was edited by Andrew Sims.

Joanne Molinaro, a master of storytelling for social change, discusses using food and cooking as a way to bridge divides and promote empathy. She shares her journey as a Korean vegan, navigating family dynamics, and advocating for veganism. The transformative power of reading and female empowerment are also explored. Tune in for thought-provoking insights and engaging conversation.

Dr. Michael Gervais, a psychologist and expert on the mind and human performance, shares insights on personal empowerment and creating a better world. Topics include improving the way we respond to challenges, developing mental skills, being present in the moment, self-love and kindness, and a competition to invest in inner life and mental skills.

Fashion icon and environmental advocate Lily Cole discusses solutions to the climate crisis, the importance of open-mindedness, and the contentious topic of animal agriculture. They also touch on choosing a focus in activism and recommend books and films. Discover Lily Cole's career transition and her accomplishments in activism, writing, acting, and directing. Explore the importance of dialogue, lab-grown meat, intersectionality in environmentalism, and the power of storytelling and podcasting.

Evanna Lynch and Dr. Melanie Joy bond over their shared solutionary approach to addressing injustice and discuss striking the right balance between personal development and social impact. They introduce the formula for healthy relating and discuss the importance of practicing integrity and honoring dignity in every interaction. The speakers also explore the significance of reading and writing, the role of artists in offering fresh perspectives, and the need to incorporate animal rights into conversations about systemic change. They emphasize the importance of building connections with people from various backgrounds and advocate for relational literacy as a solution to global issues.

On the Just Beings podcast, renowned actress and writer Evanna Lynch and award-winning psychologist and bestselling author Dr. Melanie Joy will be having conversations with changemakers about how to shift our thinking to create a more just world for people, animals, and the planet—and to cultivate personal transformation in the process. The show will be launching next Tuesday, August 23. Subscribe now to make sure that you don’t miss an episode! Follow Just Beings on social media: Instagram  Facebook Twitter This trailer was edited by Andrew Sims.