Sounds True: Insights at the Edge

Why is depression so hard for us to bring out into the open? Why does it stir up so much shame and fear? How can we shift our view of depression from a problem that needs to be fixed to a gateway to empathy, courage, wholeness, and belonging? These are the profound questions explored by Tami Simon and Parker Palmer in this incisive, insightful podcast.  Join Tami and Parker as they discuss: Being present for those in depression; suffering and empathy; courage and resilience; integrating (rather than disowning) experiences of depression; showing up in the world as who you really are; the vast intelligence of life—and the weaving of shadow and light; embracing paradox; Parker's metaphor of "living at altitude" (or the level of ego) vs. living from one's soul; depression as a befriending, grounding energy; how Abraham Lincoln's depression served as a force of reconciliation for a nation at war with itself; learning to be "hallowed by our diminishments"; and more.

Celebrated poet and author Jacqueline Suskin discusses the rewards of aligning with nature's rhythms, the shift from creative practice to profession, the healing power of intentional rest, finding balance between hope and hopelessness, and the sacred function of poets. She also delves into the importance of tuning into nature, exploring awareness and environmental urgency through poetry, and embracing the cycles of the Earth.

Anne Lamott and Neal Allen discuss taming the inner critic and reframing its voice. They explore vulnerability, radical silliness, and the role of the superego. They share tips for identifying the inner critic, exploring the truth of who you are, and the power of acceptance and surrender.

Renowned physician and author Dr. Gabor Maté discusses healing principles in a traumatized world. Topics include embodying authenticity, accepting things while desiring change, neuroscience of emotions, sensitivity and addiction, activism as healing, and the impact of suppressed emotions on health.

Can relishing the past help us create a better future? If we want to move ahead, how does going back support us? Could it be that thinking about the past is inseparable from thinking about the future? These are the questions Dr. Clay Routledge explores in his new book, Past Forward.  In this fascinating and very cool podcast, Tami Simon and Clay consider how a walk down memory lane can lead you to a brighter tomorrow, discussing: agency, action, and the power of a “meaning mindset”; building a culture of agency; existential psychology; the subjective experience of time and the concept of “temporal consciousness”; why it’s important to savor the moment; the characteristics of nostalgia; working with difficult or bittersweet memories; how creativity is facilitated by a sense of security; journaling, playlists, scrapbooks, cooking, and other practical approaches to cultivate nostalgia and its benefits; the “reminiscence bump” and how nostalgia helps us feel younger; becoming our true selves; nostalgia around objects and personal possessions; and more.

Gina Breedlove, vocalist and traditional sound healer, shares insights on using sound for healing, grief-letting rituals and collective gatherings, changing attitudes towards cancer and the body, the practice of ownership and intention, exploring the combination of heaviness and lightness in life, and the power of testimony and embracing joy and grief.

Stephen Aizenstat, founder of Pacifica Graduate Institute and author of The Imagination Matrix, discusses reclaiming imaginal intelligence. Topics include the capacity to evoke imagination, curiosity, dream tending, Carl Jung's work, innovation and creativity, imagination matrix quadrants, dreamwork as complementary medicine, and the power of storytelling.

Moshe Gersht, a musician turned Torah scholar, discusses his new book. Topics include trusting that things will get better, finding peace amidst chaos, connecting with God in every moment, and the psychological and spiritual shifts initiated through intention, joy, and certainty.

Lama Rod Owens discusses his book 'The New Saints: From Broken Hearts to Spiritual Warriors' and explores the concept of a new saint dedicated to reducing suffering in the world. They emphasize awakened care, disrupting suffering with joy, and the importance of acknowledging and caring for suffering. Other topics include ending racism, the ongoing relationship with suffering, and the commitments required to become a new saint.

Authors Justin Michael Williams and Shelly Tygielski discuss their book 'How Ended Racism' and explore topics such as recognizing biases, taking action, and embracing compassion. Filmmaker and activist Mario Van Peebles also joins the conversation to share his perspective on ending racism. They discuss the power of collective effort, the role of media, and the importance of cultural exposure in combating racism.