James Filler, author of 'Heidegger, Neoplatonism, and the History of Being', shares insights into the principles of relational ontology, asserting that relationships are fundamental to understanding reality. He explores the philosophical conflict between Parmenides and Heraclitus and its relevance to modern science. Their conversation meanders through the complexities of Eastern and Western Christianity, critiques of substance ontology, and the dynamic interplay of ancient philosophy with contemporary ethics. Filler's upcoming work promises to deepen these discussions.

Evan Thompson, a philosophy professor at the University of British Columbia and author of 'The Blind Spot,' joins the conversation to unravel the mysteries of consciousness. They discuss the autonomy of living systems, emphasizing organisms as self-governing agents rather than mere machines. The conversation critiques reductionist views, exploring how consciousness and embodiment interplay. They also tackle the limitations of artificial intelligence in capturing cognitive complexities and stress the importance of ethical considerations in its development.

Charles Stang, a Harvard professor specializing in ancient wisdom, dives deep into the concept of 'daimon' in this engaging conversation. He and John Vervaeke discuss the daimon's historical significance and its evolution within Socratic and Platonic thought. They explore how personal experiences intertwine with ancient philosophies, emphasizing the daimon's role as a guiding force in human consciousness. The dialogue also touches on modern implications, linking cognitive science, creativity, and the self amid today's technological landscape. Prepare for a thought-provoking journey through knowledge and spirituality!

John Vervaeke, a scholar delving into the significance of 'mattering', shares his insights on the meaning of life. He emphasizes the importance of connectedness and belonging over just having a purpose. By drawing on cognitive science and philosophy, he critiques materialism for neglecting relational aspects of existence. Vervaeke discusses how general intelligence intertwines with problem-solving, and he explores the transformative nature of relationality in understanding reality and higher principles. It's a profound exploration of what truly matters in our lives.

Kasra Mirzaie, a clinical researcher focused on adolescent therapy, and Dr. Robin Barre, a seasoned expert in trauma, discuss the transformative power of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. They delve into the intersection of self-organizing criticality and identity formation during adolescence, addressing the meaning crisis faced by young people. The conversation explores how insights and personal growth can emerge from therapy, highlighting the critical role of culture and communication dynamics in supporting adolescents through their developmental challenges.

Join John Vervaeke, a cognitive science and philosophy scholar, alongside Alex O'Connor, a philosopher and former atheist advocate, as they explore finding meaning in a secular world. They dive into the historical role of religion in shaping purpose and the challenges of modern existence. Personal stories highlight the struggle for fulfillment, while discussions on non-propositional knowledge reveal new paths to connection. The duo emphasizes the need for dynamic systems and grassroots movements to forge new narratives in the absence of traditional beliefs.

Nicholas Janni, a pioneer in executive development, discusses integrating spirituality into leadership. He shares his transformative journey, influenced by Tibetan Buddhism and theater, emphasizing the need for emotional embodiment in leaders. Janni explores practices like bodywork and poetry, highlighting their roles in fostering deep human connections and personal growth. The conversation also addresses the challenges of loneliness in modern society and advocates for open emotional expression as a vital component of effective leadership.

Brendan Graham Dempsey, director of Sky Meadow Institute and author of the Metamodern Spirituality Series, dives deep into the evolution of spirituality. He discusses how metamodern Christianity can revitalize ancient doctrines while integrating science and spirituality. Dempsey critiques traditional religious views and introduces concepts like Transcendent Naturalism. The conversation encourages exploring meaning within cosmic complexity and emphasizes dialogical relationships in spiritual understanding, merging personal growth with broader cultural themes.

Christopher Mastropietro, an innovative thinker behind the Philosophical Silk Road, joins educator, writer, and musician Andrew Sweeny for a thought-provoking discussion. They challenge conventional ideas about sainthood, weaving together Zen Buddhism, Neoplatonism, and tantric practices. The duo shares personal stories illustrating the significance of humor and humility on spiritual journeys. They advocate for a fresh perspective on sacredness, emphasizing authentic engagement with the divine and the transformative power of genuine saintliness.

Kasra Mirzaie, a clinical researcher and psychotherapist, dives deep into the complexities of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy. He explores how understanding different aspects of ourselves can sometimes lead to self-deception rather than enlightenment. The conversation highlights the transformative power of love and forgiveness in therapy while addressing the risks of spiritual bypassing. Mirzaie also intertwines Sufi principles, emphasizing the ethical responsibilities in guiding therapy. This insightful dialogue confronts the delicate balance between truth and self-deception in the journey of self-discovery.