Dr. Dabney explains why partners often feel trapped in repeating patterns rooted in childhood familiarity and why waiting for the other person to change rarely works. Instead, she argues that shifting your own responses can disrupt the pattern and help the relationship dynamic evolve.

We then move from labels to practical tools, such as noticing “destructive aggression” (forcing, cornering) and “destructive passivity” (withholding, expecting mind-reading), learning to tolerate difficult emotions (especially anger, sadness, and neediness), and using boundaries with “bridge statements” that protect you without escalating rejection.

Moreover, Dr. Dabney explains how to distinguish all this from “normal” stress and stressors within a healthy and functioning relationship and when to seek help with a health professional, be it a life coach or a relationship expert like herself.

Finally, she also makes a case for integrating CBT for stability and trust and then to follow it up deeper with psychodynamic insight to bring about lasting change, and she shares that she created Relationship RX for people who need clear actionable direction without necessarily committing to long-term therapy.

Rather than focusing on the epidemic itself, Ellis centers his novel on survivors: those who lived through years of loss, stigma, and fear and were never expected to survive. Drawing on personal experience as a gay teenager during the early years of AIDS, he reflects on survivor’s guilt, PTSD, chronic illness, and the long emotional shadow cast by a crisis that lasted far longer than many acknowledge. Our conversation explores the stark contrast between societal responses to AIDS and COVID‑19, the silence and hostility of governments in the 1980s, and the grassroots activism that emerged when institutions failed to deliver.

The novel spans forty years, five chapters, and multiple continents, following a nameless narrator whose identity is revealed through the people he encounters: exiles, fugitives, rebels, artists, and fellow survivors. Themes of statelessness, travel, and belonging run throughout capturing what Ellis describes as the queer experience of being “guests at the party,” never quite hosts.

Ultimately, the discussion returns to courage and self‑authorship: the idea that even if history dictates the beginning of one’s story, it is still possible to write one’s own ending. Night Terminus stands as both a literary act of remembrance and a testament to resilience and community.

Kathryn explores recurring motifs of rain and water as bountifulness amid drought, and red-tailed hawks as a metaphor for trust and lifelong love through “skydancing.” She reflects on culture shock, how grief is approached and dealt with in different contexts alongside her experience of living “two realities” at the same time.

We also talk about the role of poetry and how it enriches our lives and gives voice to complex emotions that cannot be subsumed in words. Moreover, Kathryn mentions her different inspirations, and how writers and artists, such as Solnit, Blixen, Rilke as well as surrealist painters influence her craft. The episode closes with Kathryn reading two of her poems: “Skydancing” and the closing poem of the book, “Albinoni’s Adagio,” underscoring endurance with “And still. I live.”

What started off as a sabbatical-style adventure evolves into a profound, years-long relationship with a wild elephant matriarch. Guided by local safari experts, Ron learned the “language” of elephants including how to approach without threat, how to read fear and trust, and how humility, not dominance, determines safety. Over time, this careful respect leads to extraordinary moments of bonding: mock charges that end in calm recognition, an elephant falling asleep nearby as a sign of trust, and repeated visits across years that defy easy explanation.

The relationship, however, is not romanticized. Ron confronts the limits of closeness with wild animals when safety, boundaries, and the “fence of respect” become essential both in the bush and in human leadership. Drawing parallels between elephants, classrooms, and corporate life, he reflects on how leaders can be close without crossing lines, and why humility is a prerequisite for trust and mutual respect.

Together, they explore how unconscious “parasitic programs” formed through past experiences drive anxiety, depression, fear, and even physical discomfort. The Fix Code works by identifying and extracting the core emotional charge, often a single word or feeling, and disconnecting it from memories and neural pathways. Rather than reliving trauma, the process shifts how people feel about their experiences, often in just minutes, creating clarity, emotional freedom, and a renewed sense of presence.

In our conversation, we weave together personal stories, practical examples, and philosophical insights, touching on fate, self‑awareness, leadership, and the idea that healing is not a one‑time event but an ongoing journey and process. However, Stacey emphasizes empowerment and asserts that the Fix Code is a self‑help tool anyone can learn and use, from parents and athletes to CEOs, and that it helps and supports people to “look for the good as it’s everywhere” once the inner noise quiets down.

Our conversation explores the origins of “Room,” which was founded after the 2016 U.S. presidential election to provide a space for analysts to think, write, and connect during times of crisis. Over nearly a decade, Room has grown into an international ecosystem, spanning 160 countries and embracing a multidisciplinary approach that includes poetry, literature, art, and psychoanalysis.

The editorial process is unique: there are no preset themes, and each issue emerges organically from community submissions, reflecting poignant and accessible ideas. Moreover, Room is committed to open access, supporting emerging voices, especially women in challenging circumstances, through initiatives like “We Are the Light.” The magazine, podcasts, and roundtables foster dialogue, hope, and action, aiming to bring psychoanalysis out of the consulting room and into the world, underscoring both reflection and real-world change.

We also delve into the concept of the “art monster” - artists who prioritize their work above all else, sometimes at the expense of others - and examine the tension between creative ambition and personal happiness. Kasia reflects on the importance of balancing solitude and community for creativity, the role of memory and memoir in shaping narrative, and the evolving language around gender and genius.

We conclude with insights on self-permission, the value of boundaries, and the subjective nature of genius, encouraging everyone to embrace their creative impulses without waiting for external validation and to follow their heart and dreams regardless.

Although being vulnerable can be difficult, particularly for men, opening up to others is important for growth. In addition, setting boundaries and practicing forgiveness are essential for our well-being, and we are responsible for our responses to life’s events even when circumstances are beyond our control.

The power of gratitude and the need to shift from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance can also increase to a more fulfilling life. This can be achieved by small, intentional changes, such as practicing self-kindness and embracing gradual progress and can lead to greater peace and authenticity. In fact, health is multidimensional, and nurturing our emotional and spiritual selves is just as important as physical exercise.

As we consider and appreciate the value of learning from life’s challenges, and as we continue being honest with ourselves and allow ourselves to make mistakes, we foster resilience, deeper connections, and a more compassionate approach to ourselves and others and feel truly “fine” in our skin.

That said, we also touch upon the differences between normal forgetfulness and signs and symptoms of dementia and note that occasional memory lapses are indeed a normal part of aging and should not be a cause for concern. However, when memory issues become frequent and start to impact daily life, it would be recommended to seek help.

Lisa explains that dementia is caused by over 100 different brain diseases but that a diagnosis does not mean life is over. We explore how people living with dementia, as well as their families and caregivers, can still find meaning, purpose, and joy within a diagnosis. We can help our loved ones live meaningful lives by focusing on person-centered care, validating their experiences, and not simply trying to “correct” them. When we focus on the individual rather than just the disease, we can help people live well for many years, provided we have the right knowledge, skills, and strategies.

When it comes to risks, there are significant differences between modifiable and nonmodifiable factors.  While we cannot change our age or genetics, we can reduce our own risk by managing health factors like heart disease, sleep, and diet. Most importantly, with the right approach, there is hope and quality of life for those affected by dementia as we can help them live meaningful lives while at the same time supporting each other through the challenges and uncertainties that come with these difficult conditions.

In fact, a simple shift from processed food and kibble to fresh, whole ingredients can lead to dramatic recoveries and healing in animals and their human counterparts in a number of diseases and health conditions, including autoimmune disorders.

We also explore the deep connection and symbiosis between people and their pets, highlighting how kindness and attention to individuality are powerful forms of medicine. Doug shares stories of families who embraced holistic nutrition, explains the science behind kindness affecting our DNA, and touches upon the parallels between parenting children and raising animals.

From the challenges of training stubborn breeds to the joy of seeing pets thrive, this is more than a guide for pet lovers; it’s a call to rethink health for all and to keep in mind that wellness is a shared journey and one that benefits sentient beings on both ends of the leash.

We explore how psychoanalytic concepts, particularly those of Sigmund Freud and D.W. Winnicott, inform Hustvedt's work and personal life as well as the role of therapy in personal transformation, the importance of narrative in psychiatry, and the limitations of the biomedical model in treating mental health.

We also talk literature and philosophy, and the profound influence fiction can have on our lives as well as the tremendous impact Danish existential philosopher Kierkegaard has had on both of our lives. Siri draws a distinct line between articulating ideas versus living and embodying truths and how this can lead to an uplifting and liberating experience.

Finally, Siri discusses her approach to teaching psychiatric residents through literature and narrative, emphasizing how patient stories and doctors' personal experiences influence treatment outcomes. She highlights the importance of considering patients' holistic experiences and how narrative-based approaches can offer more comprehensive treatment and be fundamental for healing and growth.

In fact, themes for each edition emerge from collaborative brainstorming whereas the journal’s “Caliban on Tour” initiative brings psychoanalytic ideas to public forums and cultural institutions and crosses borders and transcends boundaries. The journal’s name “Caliban” inspired by Shakespeare symbolizes resistance to colonial influences, and upcoming editions focus on topics such as loss and emptiness.

Silvana highlights Caliban’s commitment to disseminating psychoanalytic thought in Spanish, Portuguese, and English, emphasizing the unique cultural and historical backgrounds of Latin American countries, especially Brazil’s distinct colonial and indigenous influences. For instance, the current edition explores the Brazilian concept of “saudade” (nostalgia or homesickness), featuring contributions from historians and a discussion of “banzo,” a disease affecting enslaved people in Brazil.

All in all, the journal welcomes contributions from various fields, hence reflecting a kaleidoscope of perspectives with the aim of fostering dialogue and understanding through psychoanalysis both in traditional settings as well as within and from open and truly diverse spaces.

Moreover, she discusses how her background in forensic psychology informs her character development, highlighting the value of communication and emotional depth in relationships. We also touch on themes of self-acceptance, healing through creativity, and the significance of embracing new opportunities at any age.

S. A. Stolin’s latest book is The Doc’s Christmas Miracle and it is basically a Hallmark romance but with a twist. The story follows two doctors who must collaborate to save a struggling clinic, leading to both romantic and professional challenges. A unique element is the “memory machine,” which not only aids Alzheimer’s patients but also helps solve a mystery, adding a suspenseful twist to the romance.

Finally, Stolin reflects on the transformative power of hope, miracles, and partnership, noting that the book aims to bring joy and comfort to readers, especially during the holiday season. We conclude with thoughts on authenticity, trust, and the evolving nature of storytelling in contemporary life.

We also delve into the nuanced role of community and the barriers to expressing vulnerability, especially in traditionally male-dominated professions. By sharing anecdotes and insights, we highlight how "Shoebox" not only entertains but also sheds light on mental health, the impact of trauma, and the power of communication. Ultimately, we find that through open dialogue and creative expression, we can foster understanding, growth, and healing for ourselves and our communities.

De hecho, el nombre "Calibán", inspirado en el personaje de Shakespeare, simboliza el impulso de dar autonomía y voz al psicoanálisis latinoamericano, diferenciándolo del pensamiento europeo y resaltando la riqueza cultural y diversidad de la región. La revista aborda temas sociales y clínicos desde una perspectiva abierta y sensible a la cultura, reflejando la complejidad y belleza de Latinoamérica.

Además, María Luisa Silva destaca la estructura colaborativa y dialogante de Calibán, que involucra a un equipo amplio y entusiasta, con contribuciones de distintas disciplinas. Los números recientes han tratado temas como la seducción, la pérdida y la vida cotidiana, explorados tanto desde el ámbito clínico como cultural. La revista se publica en español y portugués, con ediciones digitales en inglés, y realiza giras y actividades en varios países para fomentar el diálogo y acercar el psicoanálisis a la comunidad.

Finalmente, se mencionan iniciativas para apoyar a jóvenes analistas y los reconocimientos obtenidos, subrayando el compromiso de Calibán con la apertura y el desarrollo del psicoanálisis latinoamericano.

Through vivid storytelling and personal anecdotes, he explores how acts of courage, often seen as extraordinary, were simply “what you did” for those who chose to help, which raises the question: why didn’t everyone do this so-called ordinary thing?

With the film’s unique blend of archival footage, cinematic techniques, and performances by renowned actors, we see these harrowing true stories of the Holocaust come to life with immediacy and emotional depth.

Finally, the filmmaker gives us behind-the-scenes glimpses into the challenges and rewards of assembling a cast, the importance of highlighting the daily realities of those involved, and the universal humanity at the heart of these narratives thus offering an inspiring look at the resilience, ingenuity, and compassion that can shine through during moments of adversity and in the face of pure evil.

Dr. Baumeister explains that while philosophers have long debated whether free will can exist in a deterministic universe, psychology approaches the question differently. He emphasizes that the human mind possesses a unique system for controlling action, allowing us to simulate multiple futures, make long-term plans, and alter our present behavior based on anticipated outcomes, which are abilities that set us apart from other animals.

Our discussion then delves into the nuances of free will, highlighting that it is not an all-or-nothing phenomenon but that it exists on a continuum. Dr. Baumeister shares research showing that some choices are “freer” than others, and that self-control is a finite resource, closely linked to our ability to make decisions.

Furthermore, we explore the moral and societal implications of free will as our legal and ethical systems presuppose that individuals can act differently in the same situation, making accountability and responsibility possible. Dr. Baumeister also touches on the importance of self-control as a trait, likening it to a muscle that can be strengthened with practice, and notes its role in personal success and well-being.

Finally, we reflect on culture, gender, and the holistic nature of human experience. Dr. Baumeister explains how cultural and social factors shape aspects of our lives, such as sexuality, and how self-control interacts with these influences. He also addresses the interplay between mind and body, the value of live social interaction, and the ongoing dialogue between philosophy and psychology. Ultimately, our conversation underscores the empowering belief that, while not absolute, free will enables us to shape our lives, take responsibility for our actions, and find meaning in our choices.

The story traces Yeshua’s escape from a troubled home life, his compassionate outreach to the marginalized Dalits in India, and his participation in significant historical events such as the Fourth Buddhist Council in Kashmir. Through these adventures, Yeshua is exposed to Buddhist, Hindu, and other mystical philosophies, which influence his evolving understanding of spirituality. Brian weaves together historical fact and fiction, using these imagined travels to explain how Jesus might have developed his more radical ideas about compassion, nonviolence, and the nature of God.

We also explore the human side of Jesus, emphasizing his sense of humor, charisma, and capacity for joy, which are traits that are often overlooked in traditional portrayals. Moreover, we reflect on how Jesus’ teachings challenged the rigid orthodoxy of his times, advocating for a more inclusive and open-minded spirituality. We then highlight that the real message of Jesus lies in the ongoing journey of self-discovery and connection with others.

Beyond the novel, Brian shares insights from his work in law and mediation, drawing parallels between spiritual growth and conflict resolution. He advocates for deep listening, compassion, and the courage to confront difficult truths, skills essential both in personal relationships and in broader societal healing. Finally, Brian reflects on balancing his roles as a legal professional and writer and offers us a preview of his next literary project that shall explore the concept of fifth-dimensional consciousness wrapped in a detective mystery.

The story follows four central characters including a director, two curators, and an educator as they navigate the chaos leading up to a high-stakes gala fundraiser. Pat explores different workplace conflicts, from power struggles and artistic ambitions to burnout and the challenge of pleasing donors, staff, and the public. The novel also shines a light on the unsung heroes of the gallery, such as technical assistants, and highlights the complex balancing act required to keep a cultural institution thriving.

Pat also shares insights into her writing process, the importance of context in art appreciation, and the therapeutic value of turning real-life frustrations into readable and relatable fiction. She offers practical advice for aspiring writers, emphasizing perseverance, adaptability, and the realities of both traditional and self-publishing as well as how AI cannot replace works of art.

In fact, In the Frame promises readers a smart, humorous, and authentic glimpse into the art world’s backstage drama, perfect for anyone curious about what really happens when the gallery doors close. It makes me appreciate not only art more but also the amount of work and effort that go into the upkeep and maintenance of an art gallery.

We discuss his novel, Spy’s Mate, which draws deeply from his love of chess and history. The story follows a young grandmaster navigating the perilous world of Soviet chess, where KGB manipulation and surveillance were ever-present. In the Soviet Union, chess was more than a game—it was a propaganda tool, and those who didn’t conform faced severe consequences. Through his protagonist Yasha, loosely inspired by Garry Kasparov, Brad explores themes of outsider status, resilience, and the struggle against a system determined to control its brightest minds.

The novel also delves into the broader context of Cold War espionage, drawing parallels between the strategic thinking required in chess and the high stakes maneuvering of spies. As Yasha rises through the ranks, he encounters not only fierce competition but also the shifting political landscape of the collapsing Soviet Union. The story takes readers into the back rooms of Soviet bureaucracy, highlighting power struggles and the emergence of figures like Gorbachev and Putin, all set against the backdrop of a society in flux.

Beyond the intrigue and historical drama, “Spy’s Mate” weaves in personal relationships and emotional depth, including Yasha’s bond with his mother and a romantic subplot that adds complexity to his journey. Brad aims to make chess visually engaging by including diagrams and structuring the novel with action and dialogue, much like a screenplay. Ultimately, he hopes readers find both excitement and humanity in the story, and perhaps even see it adapted for the screen one day.

Michaela recounts the challenges and emotional highs she experienced during her 13-day journey across the country for her aeronautical book tour in a vintage warbird by the name of Scarlett. Not only is she using the adventure as both a literal and metaphorical vehicle for spreading her message, but it also underscores and ties in with the book’s core and central themes.

In fact, the analogy of flying can help us better understand psychological patterns. For instance, people may get “stuck in holding patterns” in life, much like planes circling an airport, and how recognizing these patterns is the first step toward change. She draws on psychological theories such as transactional analysis and attachment theory to explain how early life experiences create “primal wounds” that shape adult behavior.

Moreover, she offers practical advice for becoming aware of these unconscious beliefs, encouraging us to notice our bodily reactions when triggered and to identify which “primal responder” (be it child, teenager, or parent) is influencing our actions at a given moment. This self-awareness can help us break negative cycles and make more empowered choices.

Finally, Michaela discusses how her framework applies to relationships and personal growth. She emphasizes that most conflicts are not about surface issues but about deeper wounds and unmet needs. By understanding and communicating these underlying patterns, individuals and couples can transform their interactions and foster healthier connections. And writing a book on these findings and observations is not only helpful for us but also therapeutic for the author herself.

Aymie shares her insights on the inherent connection between spirituality and mental health, opens up about her personal awakening—a process she describes as “leveling up in consciousness”—and how it led her from darkness and substance abuse to a life of purpose and healing. Her story inspires and underscores resilience and finding hope even in the most turbulent times.

In her book, she explores how spiritual experiences can be both ineffable and life changing. She discusses the importance of holistic approaches to mental health, advocating for transparent information and diverse paths to healing that go beyond pharmaceuticals. Moreover, she managed to look at the bigger picture by moving beyond the “why me” mentality, embracing the law of accountability, and accepting the necessity of making conscious choices to move forward.

Finally, we talk about the challenges faced by those who experience spiritual emergencies, including societal stigma and the limitations of traditional mental health labels. Aymie shares how finding community with others who have undergone similar awakenings has been vital to her journey, and why she believes that embracing our spiritual nature—however we define it—is essential for true well-being.

The novel centers around jinn, supernatural beings from Islamic and Zanzibar folklore, often misunderstood in Western culture as mere "genies." Jinn are described as beings created from smokeless fire, distinct from angels and humans, possessing free will and capable of good or evil. This nuanced portrayal challenges the typical Western dichotomy of good versus evil by presenting them as complex characters with motivations shaped by their experiences.

Although the novel is presented as a ghost story, it also serves as a metaphor for diaspora identity, cultural heritage, and trauma alongside occasional potential clashes with a predominantly Western scientific paradigm. As a result, the book invites readers to re-evaluate and perhaps even question certain traditional notions of good and evil.

Moreover, Dr. Abdulrehman emphasizes the importance of openness to different cultural perspectives, particularly in mental health, where misdiagnosis can occur due to cultural misunderstandings. He advocates for integrating Eastern philosophies and traditional knowledge hand-in-hand with Western scientific approaches. The novel also addresses the need for diverse cultural narratives in literature, especially those from non-Eurocentric backgrounds, to enrich global storytelling while also providing a colorful metaphor for understanding inner and psychological differences and variations between individuals that have a range of diverse experiences. 

Laura talks about King Sneferu’s pyramid innovation likening his leadership and vision to Elon Musk’s SpaceX. There seems to be – for better or for worse – no alien involvement in their design and construction as they were built using conscripted labor from across Egypt, with workers receiving food, housing, and medical care in exchange for their participation in what was considered a prestigious project.

We also discuss the ancient Egyptians' beliefs about the afterlife and their focus on ensuring eternal life through elaborate rituals and monuments. Laura explains that Egyptians loved life but were concerned about continuing it in the afterlife, describing rituals like the "opening of the mouth" ceremony to animate the senses of mummies and statues. She notes that the enduring legacy of pharaohs like Ramses the Great and Tutankhamun demonstrates their success in achieving an afterlife, as their names continue to be remembered thousands of years later.

Moreover, Laura talks about the historical significance of several powerful women in ancient Egypt, beginning with Akhenaten who portrayed himself as both male and female. She explains how Cleopatra VII was known for her intelligence and charisma rather than traditional beauty. Laura also highlights Hatshepsut as a notable queen who ruled as pharaoh by assuming male attributes and characteristics and mentions that Nefertiti and other women held significant power in ancient Egypt alongside the worship and celebration of powerful goddesses like Isis with possible connections to Mary.

Finally, we also explore the lives of common people in ancient Egypt, with Laura providing insights into daily life, agriculture, and social structures. While Egyptians experienced difficult periods during intermediate periods between kingdoms, they generally lived well during kingdom periods, with a multicultural society that varied in appearance from Mediterranean to darker skin tones in the south. As Laura explains, Ancient Egypt Alive offers everything from lectures and talks to curated and immersive tours for anyone interested.

In fact, Merilyn has “dabbled all over the place” with an expansive and diverse writing career that spans over 40 years during which she has published 22 books in a variety of genres, from straight nonfiction to creative nonfiction, essay, memoir, short fiction, long fiction, children's book, and history.

Merilyn shares her background, growing up in Brazil and Canada, and how these cross-cultural perspectives and experiences have shaped her love for language and culture. She also talks about the challenges of writing about personal and sensitive topics, such as her illness and Beth's role in caring for her, while maintaining honesty and respect for boundaries. As she documents and explores the insights of her centenarian friend, Merilyn also challenges ageist stereotypes and offers different, more realistic and empathetic portrayals of older women.

Moreover, we touch upon the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic during the writing process. For instance, Beth, being immune compromised, had to develop routines and create art during this period of isolation. Merilyn praises Beth's resilience and positivity and talks about the precautions they both took to stay safe while maintaining their friendship, their walks and conversations during this challenging time.

Finally, we talk about Merilyn's lifelong passion for writing and other creative pursuits. She describes her writing process as one of curiosity and continuous learning, likening it to the mindset of a 5-year-old. This approach keeps her engaged and motivated despite the challenges. Merilyn's conversations with Beth reveal the importance of resilience, and the ability to stay present and grateful, and not be swayed or distracted by a focus on the past or the future.

One of the key topics discussed is the role of neurofeedback therapy in enhancing mental health and well-being. Dr. Albright explains how advanced technology can help individuals achieve a state of coherence in their brains, leading to improved focus, reduced stress, and a greater sense of fulfillment. She highlights the importance of addressing and (re)calibrating both the neurological and emotional aspects of well-being, emphasizing that true transformation requires a holistic approach.

Dr. Amy also delves into the concept of overperformance and the detrimental effects it can have on mental health. She discusses how societal pressures to constantly push and achieve can lead to burnout and a sense of inadequacy. By using neurofeedback therapy and other advanced techniques, individuals can learn to balance their drive for success with the need for relaxation and recovery, which is crucial for maintaining long-term mental health and well-being.

Throughout the podcast, Amy's passion for creating a better world shines through. She speaks about the importance of aligning one's actions with one’s true purpose and the positive impact this can have on both individuals and society as a whole. By fostering a sense of interconnectedness and embracing both scientific and spiritual perspectives, Amy believes that we can unlock our full potential and create a more harmonious and fulfilling life and ponders “what's it like to no longer be imprisoned to the idea structure of who you think you are? And to slip into the bigger, truer version of who you think you are, or the bigger and truer version of what freedom feels like as it courses through your body.”

Moreover, we talk about female agency and interfaith marriages, both of which are central to Aamir's novel. He highlights the strong women in his life and their influence on his writing as he aims to showcase the diversity and strength of Muslim women everywhere. Our discussion also touches upon the role of fatwas in Islamic law, with Aamir explaining their historical context and how they are portrayed in his book.

Aamir then reflects on the challenges and rewards of writing his first novel, describing the meticulous research and dedication that was required to bring his vision to life. He speaks about the support he received from his family, particularly his wife, and the importance of perseverance in the face of obstacles.

Finally, Aamir underscores the significance of open dialogue and the exchange of ideas while advocating for a nuanced understanding of Islam, one that appreciates its diversity and adaptability. Aamir also reflects upon how Islam is often perceived in Western societies in a rather narrow and monolithic way but how technology despite its interconnectedness may also be a contributing factor to this view. By sharing his story and insights, Aamir hopes to inspire others to explore their own creative paths and contribute to a more inclusive and empathetic world.

In the book, Cynthia chronicles her transition from the sphere of theatre to the domain of psychotherapy. She reflects on how her longstanding pursuit of approval, recognition, and enlightenment was rooted in formative childhood desires for a sense of belonging. Yet she has discovered that life’s most fulfilling experiences tend to be found in the simplicity of everyday moments rooted in the present, including a pancake breakfast on a lazy morning.

We also talk about the transformative era of the 1970s, when theatre was marked by innovation and a willingness to challenge established conventions. Cynthia shares her dynamic and at times tumultuous experiences in the theatrical community, alongside the revolutionary and occasionally precarious relationships she encountered along the way, as well as the difficulties of asserting her authentic voice within a predominantly male environment.

Furthermore, we talk about psychology and spirituality and how Cynthia’s decision to pursue psychotherapy was not simply a career change, but rather a leap into uncharted territory—a personal “dark night of the soul.”

Through this journey, she found a space for genuine self-expression and healing, integrating personal challenges, spiritual practices, and the principles of therapeutic support. This was further enriched by insights into childhood trauma, the role of intuition, and Buddhist meditation, again culminating in the recognition that true contentment is to be found in the present moment.

As Carmen explains she uses astrology as a tool for self-awareness for us to heal, transform, and become more resilient, while her down-to-earth book “Your Astrological Energy: Maximize the Power of Your Birth Chart” gives us details about the power of our own unique astrological energy at play. The planets and constellations can give us important clues about our decisions, the reasons behind our emotions and how to best move forward in our personal and professional lives.

On a macro level, there are various tumultuous events occurring astrologically right now, which explains why this era is such a milestone and how and why it is very different and more revolutionary compared to most of the other time periods.

Moreover, the alignment of stars can give us important clues about our personal lives including our karma, soul mission, marriage, and soulmates. While the North node has an aspect that is more fixed and determined in terms of our unique fate and destiny, there are other aspects that are more flexible and contingent upon our own decisions and actions. A combination of both may apply to the quest of our soul mate, where karma plays a role, but we may have a say in how things turn out in the end.

Aperture awareness is a distillation and combination of psychology, mindfulness, and neuroscience and can help us to become more aware of and attuned to inherent tendencies in our thoughts and behaviors, to move from a conversation of who’s right to a balanced dialogue and to effectively deal with different personal issues and problems regarding love and romance.  

We touch upon openness, active listening, emotional overload, and vulnerability, how and why it is often hard (especially for men) to open up to their loved ones and what we can all do about it.

Moreover, Kathryn explains how mindfulness and empathy can improve communication, how to be less self-defensive and learn to focus not only on words and content but to uncover and appreciate the interplay between content and underlying feelings and emotions.

We also talk about the difference between being a healer and a traditional medical doctor including how the Western medical system is often driven by money and profit via surgeries and pharmaceutics, and how the medical model is less focused on finding a cure or healing the patient. This may explain to some extent why alternative healing modalities such as infrared light therapy are not given the recognition they deserve despite scientific studies proving their effectiveness and health benefits.

Dr. Carl Rothschild also explains how people tend to spend a lot of money on dieting and on pills to lose weight despite their lack of success and their potential risk of negative side effects. Yet, with a combination of red and infrared light therapy, this can be achieved with very few if any negative effects.

Finally, we also look at overall health practices that ensure illnesses and diseases are kept at bay, including through the adoption and practice of healthy lifestyles and good lifelong eating habits with little need for medication, diets, or other corrective measures.

Bruce himself is deaf and is using technology to be able to hear, and he talks about the importance of inclusivity, which the boy Trout first discovers when encountering First Nations people. In fact, the universal message of Bruce’s book is that fear is the greatest disability, as it can cripple us and lead to discrimination and other hurtful acts and measures.

Moreover, Bruce shares various personal stories whether it is his experience of teaching and how and why teachers tend to be the most difficult people to understand or explaining how hearing via assistive technology and a hearing aid has been very difficult and how this involves a lot of work and persistence. He also outlines research into neuroscience and how the brain not only adapts and compensates but indeed rewires and actively engages with the whole process, hence shaping and transforming it.  

Finally, Bruce also speaks the language of soil due to his studies and experiences of being an arborist, which connects him to First Nations people and many others across the world, particularly in Italy; at the same time, he tells us that failure should not be something to curb or block us but that it ought to encourage us to keep trying harder. As Bruce states, this is not his first rodeo and that when you fall, you need to get back up again, or to use a baseball analogy, to go out and bat again.

We conclude that it does not merely come down to positivity but that we need to appreciate and celebrate all aspects of life, including grief and its darker parts. Life is often challenging, and it takes a lot of courage to face its many obstacles, but it is also rewarding, beautiful, and personally enriching, while it is of the utmost importance to connect with others via feeling and empathy as opposed to being blinded by fear, judgment, and prejudice.

Hollay openly and candidly talks about growing up as a biracial woman and the various challenges and difficulties that took a toll on her health and wellbeing, including disordered eating with anorexia and bulimia, OCD, and addiction.

In her life, she often felt like she did not belong in one space or another but found herself in-between spaces and within mixed cultures as it had become quite complex to define herself not only physically but also psychologically, mentally, and emotionally due to the lack of a cohesive cultural identity.

Yet, throughout her many challenges, she was aided by the arts, humanities, and literature. Hollay spent a lot of her life with books. We discuss how it is also through literature that we come to express our own viewpoints and lived and felt experiences and are better able to understand and connect with others. As she explains, reading can develop and nurture a sense of common humanity as well as foster empathy and compassion for ourselves and others.

As the title of her memoir shows us, it is a type of fusion that creates a new beautiful and authentic whole out of the sum of the different multi-faceted parts leading to moments of “joy pockets” while at the same time embracing and leaning into a healthy and robust sense of humor.

Lisa has been involved in the healing arts for decades now and has had access to her own holistic toolbox that includes a wide range of techniques, methods, and modalities, including pharmacognosy (the study of herbal and natural medicine), meditation, mindfulness, Reiki, and shamanic healing sessions.

Throughout her healing journey where she dealt with various difficulties and hardships regarding health and her personal life, she has learned to be and remain grounded when chaos falls upon us, to accept and embrace change, and to become more resilient in the process.

One of the takeaways is to remind ourselves that we are connected to everything and that we are never alone. We can also take comfort and solace not only in other people but also pets as they can often support us in various ways when things are not going well in our lives.

Moreover, it is important to have a good healthy sense of humor, to feed and cultivate feelings of hope and optimism, to reach out to others, and to explore and find different ways and methods of releasing stuck toxic energies to prevent ill health, health complications, and disease.

In the 90s, Jerry worked with a wide range of top tier artists, including Destiny’s Child, Jennifer Lopez, Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, Maxwell, and Snoop Dogg. Being in that position brought him success, money, and fame, but it came also with a cost and a toll to his overall health.

Furthermore, JD was involved with the adult entertainment industry and outlines some of the dangers and challenges within that field and how many young women would start as waitresses and then be tempted to become dancers in a culture that prioritizes money and excess.

However, Jerry’s life story is one of second chances, redemption, and transformation. He was able to break free from the dark side of fame that had captured and trapped him in his young adult life and found himself back on the right and moral path. His book and this podcast are testament to how he has used his experiences not only to grow personally and spiritually but to openly share his experiences with everyone and to demonstrate how hope and redemption are never out of reach.

Rabbi Ponak explains how the Kabbalah is a living tradition that helps us understand the journey between the finite and the Infinite where divine emanations flow and interact and how to reveal and manifest them in our lives.

By following “The Path of the Sephirot,” we are tapping into divine qualities that we then wish to embody in our lives with each week being dedicated to specific sacred attributes starting with lovingkindness, followed by boundaries, beauty and harmony, action, yielding, connection, and receiving. On the final day, the Shavuot, all of them are then integrated within each other and themselves.

We discuss various spiritual practices that can help us not only grow but also find inner balance in the process, including the importance of the Sacred No as a form of setting boundaries for ourselves and for others, the overall combination of the Yes and No energy coupled with a balance of action and yielding. All this deep introspection and concrete action would then lead to tikkun, which means transformation or repair, and how by healing ourselves, we can heal the world as it is all interconnected.

Finally, we talk about the importance, relevance, and symbolism of the Tree of Life in the Bible and how psychoanalysis has interesting and intricate links and ties with Jewish mysticism, whether unconsciously through Sigmund Freud or as part of Jung’s interest and study of the Kabbalah. These spiritual insights and practices have the potential of enriching our lives and help us elevate our own vibes and frequencies and gain inner balance.

As Lisa explains, the three gateways that can open our latent psychic ability tend to be Reiki, Yoga, and Meditation. Reiki is a holistic healing modality that is used in many clinics for pain management and during pre- and post-surgery with no side effects. As it relaxes and activates the body’s natural healing capacity, it can be also effective for mental health, including depression and anxiety. In fact, Lisa adds psychic development to her practice of Reiki, which can be conceived of a type of “massage for the soul.”

But psychic abilities can be further uncovered, discovered, and expanded by keeping a Psychic Journal. This can heighten our abilities by paying attention and connecting with our higher self through our intuition instead of listening to or acting upon the ego or personal self.

We discuss how listening to our intuition can lead to a more soulful life and the importance of unplugging and finding calm and quiet to encounter ourselves and to check in spiritually. We also talk about the difference between self care and self-compassion and how to distinguish reactive feelings from soul feelings where the authentic self would come into play.

Moreover, we discussed the evolution of psychoanalytic thinking and its impact on the mental health field. Psychoanalysis is a great revolutionary tool for personal transcendence and transformation, which can be enhanced by reframing New Testament concepts and re-evaluating Christianity as a metaphor for deep ethics, conscience, and personality change.

This new approach can help us evolve by making us more autonomous and self-aware and guide us towards becoming ourselves on the deepest level as we continue aiming towards the true self as opposed to being grounded and trapped in the false self.

Jill has been a life-long Tarot card reader, and she has seen the effects of the oracle not only in her own personal life but also how it has helped many of her clients deal with difficult situations and decisions. That has also strengthened her relationship with the universe and being able to channel, perceive and recognize signs and signposts in nature and our surroundings.

Being open, aware, and mindful of ourselves and our surroundings has been helpful, but it has also been a source of hope while also building resilience within. Despite various limitations and obstacles in her life, she has not only managed to overcome them but also thrive. With her work and her book, she is sharing her personal insights and experiences without being academic or having a religious dogma or agenda attached to them but as a means of connecting to our own guidance available to each one of us.

When faced with trauma, Linda finds both recourse and solace in her spiritual beliefs and the belief in an afterlife. We also talk about how it is important to accept life and suffering and that many of us experience a lack in our lives that could be filled with beliefs in the spirit and the continuous practice of spirituality.

We discuss how emotions are important and vital to our existence and that we should not evade, numb or disregard them but rather to feel them first so that we can process them later; this can help us find balance and spiritual alignment. While following the seven-step mindful process of Sherianna’s Cleanse Method, we can both process our emotions and connect with Spirit.

Moreover, Sherianna explains how we can manifest by asking and by raising our frequency and vibration. The signs and signals are out there and when we are mindful and raise our awareness, we can perceive them and find help, guidance, and support along the way. By aligning ourselves spiritually, we gain access to this spiritual force, and in the process, we enhance our intuition, grow spiritually, attain the innate wisdom of our soul, and discover and find our true purpose and calling in life.

We discuss both conscious and unconscious processes that occur when facing and responding to severe trauma, suffering, and extreme loss as has been the tragic and heartbreaking reality after the October 7th massacre, the taking of hostages, and the Gaza War. Dr. Roth provides various examples from her own work and experience dealing with such horrendous and devastating cases and situations.

Moreover, we discuss how the arts, poetry, and literature have the potential and the power to inspire and transform us in different ways; at the same time, psychoanalysis is more than a tool and a technique to uncover and bring up hidden thoughts and unwanted emotions as it can pave the way for self-discovery, growth, and healing.

When reading a book, both the conscious and the unconscious mind of the reader is engaging and interacting with both conscious and unconscious processes and aspects of the writer resulting in a type of meeting of unconscious minds.  

As a result, the arts can change and transform us, can give us hope and help us reconnect with the beauty of the world, but ultimately, it is love that is the ultimate cure to help us process and deal with the pain, loss, and suffering that we face and encounter in life.

With the Chinese New Year of the Wood Snake approaching, I took the opportunity to ask him about his projections and predictions regarding opportunities and potential challenges in the coming year. As he explains, there will be a significant shift from Dragon yang energy associated with authority and power to a more receptive period with the wise and intuitive Snake representing yin energy. Moreover, it will be a time for shedding the old skin but also finding and connecting with one’s roots and foundations.

We also discuss the similarities and differences between Eastern and Western approaches and Letao explains how they are complementary and can be combined to present a fuller picture. In fact, the mental health field would greatly benefit from incorporating and integrating spirituality to make its paradigm more holistic.

Finally, we talk about synchronicity and serendipity as well as how we can have a sense of destiny and fate by also allowing room for free will and personal agency. We cannot merely blame the stars for our conditions and situations but need to take personal responsibility and not be driven by a false sense of justice where we feel we have been wronged or that the world is unfair or biased against us.

As Letao explains we are seeds that contain many possibilities and potentialities within and although we do not choose the seed, we can take care of it, cultivate it, and make it bloom and flourish.

We discuss thinking outside of the (crayon) box and looking beyond traditional forms of grief and grieving by adding a celebration of life with an enhanced and enriched experience of life after loss and how it is possible to hold and experience two different emotions like joy and grief at the same time. But Molly also explains openly and candidly the various states and mixed emotions and ups and downs of providing care to a loved one requiring a wide array of colors from the crayon box.

Moreover, Molly reads three of her poems from The Widow’s Crayon Box - “Touched”, “Sex after Seventy”, and “Honey Crisp” - followed by a brief discussion on them including that it is never too late to have and enjoy sex alongside the many pleasures of life. We also discuss some of her other work and projects, which include biographies, a memoir, a one-woman-show as well as her inspiring “Secret Poetry Room” Project.

As these films tend to operate on a much lower budget with less oversight and restrictions, they end up not only increasing artistic freedom of speech and expression, but they can also dive in more freely into topics, subjects, and themes that are often off-limits and taboo in mainstream cinema.

At the same time, these movies also give us insight into and feedback upon the make-up and psychology of the audience and what that can tell us about the interests and anxieties of any given period. For instance, this is also reflected in changing victim demographics as well as how and why serial killer movies peaked in a particular decade.

Culturally, there is also a shift from fear of communism and nuclear war as evidenced in Godzilla and zombie movies and The Invasion of the Body Snatchers to slasher and found footage films and horror films on epidemics and pandemics. In many ways, this data and the correlations give us important and relevant glimpses and insights into the psyche, the mindset, and the culture of any given time period.

We discuss the importance and necessity of biodiversity both in our natural and social world and how each person ought to be provided with the opportunities, resources, tools, education, and support to reach their full potential. By changing our definition and understanding of economic growth and switching the bottom line from a “having” to a “being” mode, everyone could benefit in the process.

Moreover, it is also vital to change our view and outlook on mental health in general. Currently, there is too much focus on issues and problems but a more positive approach in the lines of positive psychology and positive psychiatry could aim at boosting each and everyone’s wellbeing level.

That said, it is still important to consider and look at the influence of individual and collective trauma and how healing could not only help us connect with ourselves and others on an authentic and much deeper level but also motivate us to take positive action and increase pro-social and pro-environmental values and behaviours.

We are on the cusp of a vital transformational wave and by emphasizing being and spirituality and our connection with other human beings and our natural habitat, we can not only face and overcome the upcoming challenges and crises but use them as an opportunity to build a better, more hopeful and joyful world for ourselves, our children, and al the subsequent generations to come.

First off, we need to discover ourselves and truly see and connect with our essence and only then can we practice self-love, which is much more and much deeper than appreciating our strengths but rather accepting, embracing, and loving the entire package that is who we really are.

This is a life-long practice and both mindfulness and self-awareness are essential and vital for this. In that sense, love is not so much feeling but rather seeing ourselves and fostering and developing qualities that we have ignored or neglected in our lives. For this to occur, it is important to engage in inner child work.

This also entails facing difficult moments and addressing traumas of the past so that we can come out feeling better about ourselves and liberating ourselves from accumulated shame, blame, and guilt. As such, we can live a much happier life with stronger will, more intention, more trust, and one that opens up and is filled with self-love and love for all beings around us.

As she explains, consciousness is the fundamental creative principle of life that is within and working through each individual sentient being. By studying and better understanding consciousness, we would not only overcome our fear of death but could also improve our own lives.

Each life can be perceived as a story with elements and themes often connected through what Stan Grof calls condensed experiences, which can help us resolve issues and problems in a given life, and in that process, we would elevate our own consciousness and the world around us.

Once we elevate our vibrations and frequencies and move away from the narrow and limited paradigm of materialism, we will find ourselves more in alignment with our true self and surroundings imbued with an overall sense of joy and happiness. In this higher state of consciousness, challenges are not seen as stumbling blocks but as temporary hurdles that can lead us to personal growth, resilience, and better outcomes for everyone involved.

Often our lack of comfort with speaking up or setting boundaries has its root in our childhood stemming from experiences we had in the past where we may have felt that our opinions did not matter or were not valued or respected. But through self-awareness and self-regulation we have the opportunity to not only address these wounds and issues but to come out stronger and be able to attain better outcomes and results in our relationships.

As Jan and Jillian explain, their ASAP method is applicable to all types of relationships, and they can help us find common ground, build bridges, and lead to win-win situations for everyone involved. Such a shift from a "me mindset" to a "we mentality" with teamwork will pay dividends not only for employees, upper management, and CEOs but also for the company and corporation as it will boost motivation and satisfaction and increase productivity across the board.

As he explains, mind models are much more than mindsets, beliefs or a state of mind; they are behavior-based and produce real-world results that are visible and observable by yourself and others and they put the power and control in your hands. This can be achieved with the three Es model, which show you whether your approach is effective or not by using a process of evaluation as opposed to judgment that are externally verifiable.

We also talk about the practice and effects of mindfulness and intuition and while we generally agree on both, there are slight variations in our understanding and practice of each of them. Yet Blair fully appreciates the potential power and positive effects of faith and prayer and how they can be externally verifiable by consistently and repeatedly producing states of calm and peace. Furthermore, Blair explains how we can choose our reactions and emotions to life events and that we can rewire our brain to experience less anxiety and more joy, happiness and success in our daily lives.

For instance, cluster headaches go through cycles but unlike migraines, we are not aware of specific triggers except that smokers tend to be more likely to suffer from it whereas alcohol can be a potential factor. There are preventive measures and a range of treatments but there are still many unknown aspects to cluster headaches.

Although wellness initiatives, such as mindfulness or lifestyle changes reducing stress and anxiety tend to provide aid and relief for migraine sufferers, it is not as closely associated with improvement when it comes to cluster headaches. However, more research is needed and initiatives like Intermittent Fasting may potentially work as it can affect and change the circadian rhythm.

Finally, Dr. Burish talks about his background in neuroscience, how the brain does not have pain receptors as well as his decision to engage in this type of research, which includes helping and providing relief to patients suffering from chronic conditions like this one.

Whether you are taking care of a child or a dog, there are different parenting styles that are applicable and certain methods that are preferred and recommended. Wendy explains the links and parallels while proposing and advocating the broad and holistic HEARTS approach, principles and goals that are helpful for and beneficial to the raising of both children and dogs.

At the same time, it reinforces that these sentient beings are unique in their personality traits as well as their needs, desires, and wishes. It is important to be responsive to them and yet to leave some space for them to figure things out on their own and have time to be themselves while playing, learning, and exploring freely.

As we are guiding and leading them, it is a great chance not only to break old harmful patterns, upgrade our skills and heal ourselves from negative experiences rooted in our own respective childhood but also to be able to pause and start anew as we try our best and keep learning with and growing from each new challenge and opportunity in the parental realm, be it human or canine.

Elizabeth challenges us to rethink and redefine what success means and to do so individually and not on a cookie-cutter basis (this coming from a chocolate chip cookie connoisseur!). It is important to first figure out what your passion is clues of which may be present during our childhood and then formulate it in clear and concrete terms both to yourself and others.

As she explains, it is best to not compare yourself with others but rather visualize what you would like to achieve. Although there may be physical limitations, there are no age limits on what you can do as long as you can see it, be it, and then follow through by doing it.

At the same time, it is essential to have a positive outlook even (or especially) during hard and difficult times but also to surround oneself with positive people who understand and fully support you alongside your wishes and desires. In fact, as Elizabeth illustrates, often the desire to change and grow comes from initially feeling stuck and being at an impasse in life.

Yet by taking the step-by-step process toward comprehensive success as you visualize, actualize and then amplify this unique path of yours, you can start celebrating the smaller wins as you aim and reach toward the bigger ones. And at all times, it is important to keep your positivity intact, be surrounded by loving and caring people, and be grateful for what you have instead of worrying and fretting over that which you do not have (yet).  

Mehrsa details that during the 1960s, there was a significant and pivotal global shift in terms of freedom and human and civil rights, international law, and the sovereignty of nations, and that is when neoliberalism gained its foothold not only in American policy but across the world.

This ideology made itself known at that time as an antidote and protection against communism and was touted as a free-market policy that would decrease laws and government intervention, but it ended up creating more laws and regulations to benefit its own agenda.

As Mehrsa explains this profit-driven ideology operates on double standards, is algorithmic in nature and has infiltrated laws and policies in the form of a quiet coup, which has been propagated by both sides of the political spectrum.

Furthermore, we discuss how this has the potential to lead to totalitarian and fascist regimes and that we need to be aware that evil exists in its “banality” as Hannah Arendt noted, namely as common forms of blindness and ignorance among the people and citizens.

People are frustrated with the rampant corruption and hypocrisy, and are hence distrusting of governments, institutions, and corporations as the game is rigged and tilted in the favor of the wealthiest.

In a sense, we are at a crucial and pivotal point in history as events around the tumultuous 60s are reoccurring and are being mirrored but this time around we have the chance and potential of solving the issues together and attaining true and lasting democracy for everyone by investing in human genius and giving it free reign.

Over the years, Sheila has worked predominantly with women, most of whom are successful but do not think they are as they tend to feel burdened and weighed down by an unhealthy and unrealistic drive for perfection as well as the impostor syndrome.

Sheila points out that we often need to define states and concepts for ourselves to be able to discover our uniqueness and where we excel most. A shift in mind and perspective can help us see things more clearly, while curiosity can be our anchor and driving force throughout our life's journey.

Finally, she gives examples of Hawaii and some of their chants, which focus on each of us having powerful spiritual forces that make us whole, unique, and essential to our world. By drawing parallels to quantum field theory, we may better understand that nothing is good or bad, right or wrong in and of itself, and that our aim and goal should be to connect with our spiritual force within and to create the life we want and wish for.

Successful leadership goes beyond making one’s business function well or making it good and reputable in the eyes of the world, but an important, necessary, and crucial aspect is relationships with one’s staff and employees, clients, and community. Moreover, it is interesting to note that you are not just born a leader, but it is a skill that can be taught, learned, practiced, and improved upon.

Gary shares how Benjamin Franklin’s quest and work on 13 virtues influenced and inspired him to consider and look at 40 competencies that make a good and effective leader based on surveys of various successful business leaders around the world. These different skillsets can make you tap into and become your best version in the business field and perhaps even turn you into a polymath like Franklin himself.

Moreover, a super leader wears many hats and has access to a wealth of knowledge and experience that they can put on and take on at any given moment. Although we may not be multitaskers, we can do, focus, and improve upon various things one at a time. Yet, an important question to ask yourself is what your superpower and your legacy are, and we may start asking ourselves this question at a young age so that we can activate, realize and even go beyond our inherent potential.

Talmage explains how each of the presidents offers something unique that can inspire us and help us on our own leadership path. For instance, Washington was good at learning from his mistakes, was good at making decisions and had an impeccable reputation, whereas Jefferson demonstrates the importance of having positive relationships, keeping the communication lines open, and getting people in a mode of collaboration and cooperation.

What others have shown as well is the importance of a clear vision, of unwavering faith and dedication to one’s goals and aims, and of overcoming various obstacles and challenges. In addition, Lincoln shows us great focus and not being distracted from one’s path, while Franklin Roosevelt’s strength and resilience are commendable and inspiring.

Finally, a sense of pragmatism imbued with optimism often leads to success. This is embodied in both the attitude as well as deeds of Reagan, who managed to restore confidence and motivate the nation after a period of stagnation and demotivation. Not only do we learn more about the selected presidents, their personalities, and political careers but also, how this information can make us all more successful leaders in our own respective endeavors.

In fact, Corky retook the 1869 photo of the railroad celebration and made it more diverse, inclusive, and true to fact by - this time around - not excluding Asian faces from the image even though many Chinese workers had been involved in the work and labor of the railroad construction.

Moreover, Jennifer explains how Corky was very passionate, persistent, dedicated and very good at his art of photography while always being at the right place at the right time. A picture speaks a thousand words, and, in this case, it also caught what had often eluded mainstream media at the time and has framed and reframed our knowledge and understanding of historical events.

Finally, his influence needs to be put into perspective as in the lens and framework of his times, it was rather uncommon for people and society to be diverse and inclusive in their practices. At the same time, by being open to and even expanding his community to include many others, he has always brought attention to a lot of cultural festivities and celebrations in New York.  

Maimonides was a multi-talented person, and he was a doctor as well as a prolific writer who was persecuted for his beliefs but whose ideas influenced many philosophers, thinkers, and scholars, including Thomas Aquinas. In fact, the writings of Maimonides were discussed and even revered by three main Western religions: Judaism, Christianity, and Islam.

Yet on this podcast, the Rabbi focuses on practical tips and guidance for everyday life and taps into the wisdom of Maimonides’ maxims and proverbs. We learn about finance and how to best deal with money as well as how a charitable and philanthropic mindset and lifestyle can attract affluence in different ways.

Moreover, it comes down to character and attitude, which can bring not only happiness to our personal and professional life, but they can also build and create trust and respect within our own community. Moreover, family is of great importance and so best practices and values are encouraged to ensure that there is mutual respect and love within the given family unit.

Finally, we also delve into the more mystical aspects of Maimonides and the importance of tapping into the good and the light and refraining from falling prey to evil and negativity. Through a spiritual lens and outlook, we can not only find love but also connect with God and experience divine overflow, which would help us see and notice signposts and divine providence throughout our lives. This would lead us to a feeling of awe and connectedness and transform our lives in profound ways and manners.

We talk about the intersection between the letting go of perfection and the letting in of joy while not only accepting the flaws in each of us but also allowing space for and embracing the quirky and idiosyncratic parts of one another.

Dr. Carla gives us a summary of four different relationship styles and how we can adopt the healthiest one that, like a braid, allows for dependence while also supporting independence as well as fostering connection between each other. At the same time, if the relationship includes emotional intelligence, with strong communication and healthy conflict, it could lead to even more joy and harmony.

Furthermore, we discuss how and why the relationship with oneself is of great importance and that we need to be reminded that self-love is not always synonymous with self-care. It is best to be kind and gentle with oneself including past versions of our selves.

Often, there is a lot of pain and traumatic experiences that need to be addressed and processed to be able to move forward and onward in life, yet we should not be afraid to change direction or our mindset to attain what works best for us at a given moment. We also look at how change may be difficult but necessary to embrace and the three positive purposes of uplift, grow, and accept that can help us along the way.

What happened on February 29, 1704, in the remote town of Deerfield, Massachusetts? James Swanson gives a chilling account of this chapter in early American history by examining the massacre perpetuated by 300 Indians and 50 French officers and the subsequent abduction of over a hundred residents and their experience of captivity.

Many Deerfield residents, including women and children were murdered on the spot, others were slaughtered on the long march to Canada through wintry conditions, and some of them, like Eunice Williams, daughter of Reverend John Williams, were forcefully adopted by Indians and then incorporated into their tribes. No matter how much the Reverend tried, he could not get his daughter to come home in addition to having lost two very young children and his wife to this brutal and unexpected attack.

We also look at the importance of preserving history in the form of relics like the “Old Indian Door,” the constant threat of attacks combined with fear and superstition of the times including witchcraft, and the belief in divine punishment. James also explains the reason for using horseshoes at the door, how native voices had been erased but have now been added to the historical accounts, and how today, there are many descendants of mixed blood in these areas, especially in Canada.

Finally, we look at how history can be complex and filled with irony, especially the relationship triangle between France, England, and America, and how French support had been instrumental in winning the revolutionary war and how the Statue of Liberty is a French gift and symbol that commemorates American independence.

In the first volume, Conrad looks at how clans and tribes organized themselves in Mesopotamia, India, and China, and it ends with the death of the first Roman Emperor Augustus. He also looks at other notable and noteworthy historical figures that have left indelible marks in the annals of history, including Alexander the Great and Julius Caesar.

We also touch upon the founding fathers and the American Experiment and the strategic contributions of Benjamin Franklin as well as later important influences by Franklin Roosevelt, who is generally considered to be a polarized figure ranging from being a socialist to the “greatest friend capitalism ever had.”

Moreover, we agree that history is a fascinating subject and that it is not merely a repetitive cycle but that it in fact represents a line of progress, which is not straight but rather jagged in its shape and nature. Conrad also gives two "what-if" examples and scenarios of speculative history, the nightmare and the best outcome, in his view.

Finally, we talk about how the Americans faced the Communist threat during the Cold War period and how despite occasional overreactions, it was a bold and successful strategy to keep the Soviet Union at bay. At the same time, Nazis were not as unified as is often thought and believed but that they faced internal strife and opposition including the assassination attempt on their leader.

Moreover, to be able to reach healing and live blissfully and joyfully, we must pause, be curious about life, and listen to the voice of our soul. Then, it is necessary to be courageous and act and engage consistently to solidify these experiences so that we can achieve alignment across all four bodies in healing: the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual body.

Different analogies are given to illustrate this, including how it is often not a matter of right or wrong, how we can welcome doubt without being dissuaded from acting and moving forward, and finally, how it is everyone’s own personal choice and responsibility to take up the path of self-discovery, growth, and spiritual harmony. Each of us must journey toward our very own awesome and life-transforming spiritual awakening since life is so much more fun, enjoyable, and fulfilling with authentic love, compassion, and empathy.

Michelle explains how she has used it, applied everything she talks about here, and that it works. This holistic approach starts with the first step, which involves tools and strategies to activate the parasympathetic nervous system. Thereafter, it is important to identify and label one’s emotions. We discuss how anxiety is on a spectrum and in lower doses and levels, it can be necessary and even beneficial to function in daily life.

The next step involves acknowledging one’s feelings and not suppressing, numbing, or avoiding them because if you can’t go through the emotion, you can’t get to the other side. Moreover, we must remember to avoid layering our thoughts and emotions because this would be feeding them, and it could snowball into catastrophic thinking and negativity.

The final step is about taking charge and moving forward with the art of mindfulness.  That would help us combine all the different steps and by being centered in the present moment, we can figure out what it is we want to pursue for the future. In many ways, our anxiety stems from a fear of the future, which is something that we can manage and control, especially since emotions are transitory and not permanent.

In this episode, I have the great pleasure of speaking with Dr. Ludwig Janus, psychoanalytic and prenatal-oriented psychotherapist, author of the book “The Enduring Effects of Prenatal Experiences: Echoes from the Womb” on how prenatal and perinatal experiences shape and influence human psychology.

Our birth is a real experience that not only occurs on an individual level but also forms a collective part of psychohistory, which includes a rich and whole range of experiences that are preverbal and become part of our implicit memory.

In traditional psychoanalysis, Freud’s unconscious included the “inner child” whereas Adler posited the minority complex and the drive to power, it was Rank who put birth trauma on the map and into our conscious field stating that it is possible to go through the birth process without losing oneself.

Yet, there are different types of therapy to address birth trauma, such as regression therapy, primal therapy, and others, to effectively get to the root of the issues, which can stem from various factors and conditions like medical interventions, feelings of stress and anxiety during pregnancy, socioeconomic conditions, or due to feeling unwanted or unwelcome in the family.

These negative prenatal and perinatal experiences remain in our unconscious and can lead to neuroticism, and anxiety, and even be the cause of violence and cruelty as demonstrated by murderers and notorious political leaders around the world. The antidote is to create loving and peaceful conditions during pregnancies as well as a supportive environment in the outer world via caring and accepting parents.

That can be achieved through bonding analysis and the prenatal relations of mother and child. If there is bonding, connection, and empathy before birth, the child has a feeling of and right to existence with a basic autonomy which would essentially increase self-confidence and self-esteem by turning the trauma of birth into a call for adventure.

More than ever, Nitsan is following her calling to establish an army of healers that will be involved in bringing peace and healing to a war-torn region. To be able to do so, it is important to feel and share one’s pain and to engage in open dialogue with respect and empathy toward the other because if we don’t transform our pain, we transmit it and act it out thus creating more divide and mistrust.

And yet, here is the perfect opportunity for healing from trauma in a window of opportunity that comes once in a century, but we all need the willingness to change for the better. This means coming together and to start rebuilding trust and connection despite different belief systems, fears, and doubts.

We also need to change our paradigms and mindsets about the state of the world and follow Marianne Williamson’s suggestions and initiative of a Department of Peace that spends money not on weapons, bombs, and defense systems but on building peace and on teaching people how to connect, on working through conflicts and doing something for the highest good of the world.

James explains the difference between a wealth mindset and a scarcity mindset and how many people get stuck in or settle for the latter, which ends up feeding negativity across the board. However, there is the opportunity to shift from negative self-talk, which brings in and attracts negative energy, to positive views and beliefs that foster and promote wealth, abundance, and overall success.

It is important to keep in mind that prosperity alone does not bring about nor ensure lasting well-being and happiness and that a holistic approach to wealth not only includes financial gain but also rich and fulfilling connections and relationships in our life as well as peacefulness and wholeness within ourselves.

Self-care, mindfulness, and intuition all play an important role in this holistic outlook. At the same time, faith and spiritual development would open doors not only within but also outside of ourselves. By going within and lifting ourselves up, we would attract and welcome good things into our lives and as such ignite the wealth spark toward personal and professional fulfillment while extending and expanding this for the common and the highest good.

Dr. Norman explains how the mind like the body has an immune system and how we can immunize ourselves against flawed thinking, biases, and conspiracy theories. Through mind inoculation, we can also prepare for upcoming or anticipated false narratives and prebunk them (i.e. debunk them in advance) so we have better protection and guardrails against disinformation and misinformation as demonstrated in the case of the Biden administration and the invasion of Ukraine.

Since the advent of the European enlightenment, we have become somewhat more rational in our outlook and have been less prone to fall for dangerous superstitions like witchcraft, while also being a bit more able to modify and regulate emotions via our reflective and thoughtful selves. In addition, we need to have intellectual humility, open-mindedness, and curiosity and not be overconfident as this could comprise our ability to separate fact from fiction. In such cases, doubts are our mind’s antibodies, but if they are prevalent, they can derail us by making us too rigid and biased in our thinking.

Finally, we also discuss the inherent dangers of generative AI with deep fakes that could mislead many users and viewers and also how technology with its algorithm of increased engagement and profiteering may contribute to more extreme and radical thinking. Yet, if we immerse ourselves in healthy practices, infuse our thinking with reasonable doubt, and take advantage of projects like mental immunity, we can come out stronger and more resilient.

Recently, she appeared in the Netflix series “How to Become a Cult Leader” and we talk about her experience and the depiction and portrayal of the Buddhafield cult. She explains how documentaries and shows of that ilk often distort facts and events. In reality, things were often different than on those programs, and in many ways, you had to be there to understand the range and scope and the complex issues and situations to fully understand what was going on.

That said, she demonstrates various key points that cult leaders, tyrants, dictators, and narcissistic sociopaths have in common, which they borrow from similar playbooks. Narcissistic leaders often try to pinpoint weaknesses, give answers to what people want to hear, and provide them with what they want or need, while also distorting facts, manipulating the psyche, and playing with the emotions and vulnerabilities of the members and followers.

Moreover, members of such groups, sects, and communities tend to build connections amongst each other as they strive to build their unique community, and which they tend to hold onto despite experiencing malaise, discomfort, and various amounts of cognitive dissonance. All this involves and underscores complex psychological processes and cannot be simplified or reduced to simple matters of education or intelligence.

We talk about why the Reverend chose “The Raising of Lazarus” as the subject of his book. Its theme of coming forth and stepping forward can have various meanings and signify many different things for each individual ranging from an invitation for change and leaving our “metaphorical tombs” behind to starting and stepping into a richer, fuller, and authentic new life.

Moreover, the book also has elements of a travelogue, memoir, motivational, inspirational, and spiritual self-help book alongside philosophical and religious thoughts and reflections about life, death, the afterlife, and what is considered the greatest miracle performed by Jesus.

In the Scriptures, the raising of Lazarus demonstrates the immense power that the messiah has over life and death by bringing a person back to life, but it can also be interpreted as a call for change and finding your true voice and vocation in life. Deep down in our inner life, our intuition may be giving us signs from the divine telling and propelling us to come forth and embrace and lead a more healthy, holy, grounded, and centered life.

Dr. Ungar works mainly with children and adolescents and shares the many joys of working with this age group as they have not only different insights and worldviews but also a lot to teach and to give to everyone around them.

Yet, they also have their unique difficulties and challenges, especially having to deal with some of the drawbacks of technology and the current state of the world, which includes violence as well as the experience and suffering and after-effects of a pandemic.

Moreover, Virginia explains her own approach to psychoanalysis and that includes building new relationships and creating novelties. It goes beyond the interaction of two individuals, but it is a mutual and wonderful experience that touches both and creates something new, beautiful, and lasting out of this transformative interaction and encounter.

Lisa also explains the various steps needed to reach awareness and then how to deal with her traumatic childhood past. Childhood trauma sticks with us and shapes and influences us profoundly as negative experiences affect our brains. Yet as adults, we have the chance and opportunity to make a conscious decision to change that by opening up to our feelings and being honest about what has happened instead of being led and driven by anger and victimization, which tend to trap us in victim mode, but which can be difficult to let go of.

This awareness and course of action take a lot of courage, effort, and hard work and will be very uncomfortable, but it is all necessary for healing and feeling whole again and there is no shortcut to emotional healing. But it is of great importance to dissolve negative love patterns lodged in our body and mind, which would make us feel less alienated and less lonely and will help us see the future more clearly and more brightly on our path ahead.

Brainwashing is an often charged and loaded word, but it was interesting to see that the term itself has evolved out of post-war tensions and during the Cold War, although it had been previously given other names and had been referred to as possession or mesmerism.

Nonetheless, the practices have changed since the 1950s and 60s by including and appropriating insights from psychoanalysis followed by a variety of projects and experiments aimed at creating resistance and resilience on one hand as well as influencing and manipulating others by changing thought patterns and belief systems. This was done on both sides of the political spectrum, and it is assumed that the term itself brainwashing may have come from a Chinese literal translation of “cleansing the mind”.

Moreover, we talk about Freud and his opposition during the heydays of psychoanalysis, his revolutionary insights combined with a new therapeutic approach that has been altered and modified throughout the years and has led to different and diverse methods, theories, and approaches in the rich and fertile psychoanalytic field.

Finally, we look at the drive towards rigid dogmatic thinking while following and embracing charismatic leaders alongside the dangers of groupthink, peer pressure, and totalitarianism. We also discuss the unique psychological and historical underpinnings and undercurrents of Nazi Germany but also what experiments and research in the “psy” disciplines have shown us regarding obedience and authority. We finish off with the example of road rage and how previously sweet docile people can quickly and briefly turn into monsters of sorts.

We discuss the importance of not getting stuck and comfortable in the illusive safety of the comfort zone but stepping out of it to find meaning and purpose in our personal lives while visualizing and manifesting long-cherished dreams and goals. To do so, we must first reach optimal health and physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. This can be reached via various methods and could include meditation, breathwork, intermittent fasting, and regular daily practices.

It is essential to adopt a mindset that will push us forward toward our future as opposed to being held back and down by our past and previous experiences. In adopting a holistic approach that encourages overall and balanced healthy lifestyles in body, spirit, and mind, we can indeed upgrade our body, mind, and life by unleashing our unique superpowers into the world to the benefit of everyone, including ourselves!

It comes down to respecting, honoring, and fulfilling your seven emotional needs, which are in fact rights and not privileges and that many of us either neglect, do not know about, or are not familiar with. It ranges from the need to belong and to matter up to the need to soar and go beyond self-actualization. This bill of emotional rights also includes the need to create.

We also talk about how men and women often try to compensate for this lack and how even executives and senior managers experience not only stress but depression and are simply not aware of it. Their emotional lack is often manifested in symptoms of the body ranging from headaches, neck, and back strain to gastrointestinal issues to cardiovascular ailments and conditions. While we tend to run to medication for relief, they do not treat the root causes and cannot possibly heal us. Since depression is a consequence and not the cause, medication can merely make us functional at best.

Depression may be classified as a mood disorder, but it is rather a signal, a symptom, and a warning sign with much deeper root causes in effect and at work. It often points towards missing or neglected emotional needs and experiences in our lives and is a reminder that "mental health" affects the whole and entire body and not just the head. In fact, the opposite of depression is not happiness but personal fulfillment, which can be attained by focusing on your body and mind with their unexpressed and unfulfilled emotional needs and rights.

We talk about the amazing work and wonderful and profound insights provided by Otto Rank, whom theologian Mathew Fox considers a “saint” and who has left a long-lasting legacy, influence, and mark upon various fields and disciplines across time and space. Rank's ideas are still valid, pertinent, and relevant today and, in fact, more so than ever, but sadly, Otto Rank was “canceled” by psychoanalytic circles and was not given the credit and merit he would have and should have deserved.

Failing to acknowledge and consider the life-changing and transformative ideas of this great thinker has been to the detriment of psychoanalysis. Therapy could have been tweaked to help clients not only discover themselves but also to strengthen their "creative will" and to become not only less neurotic and more efficient in life but to enjoy it much more fully and wonderfully. Moreover, Rank has influenced social work and various movements that lead towards greater justice and more peace, compassion, and empathy in the world. His psychology of difference could help many to bridge their differences and become more peaceful and encompassing in their views, opinions, and lifestyles.

Rank’s views were holistic and even cosmic in nature as opposed to the narrow-minded, specialized, medicalized, and mechanistic neuroscientific behavioral model that many in the field of psychology are following nowadays. And though Rank was silenced in his heyday and for various decades thereafter, his presence is still felt in various disciplines and his voice can be heard. You can find out more about this amazing and unique person at the upcoming Otto Rank International Conference 2023 on November 4 and November 5 presented by the Existential Humanistic Institute!

We talk about the different notions and conceptions of the ego both in the Western and Eastern traditions, how as a body-mind we tend to identify with our job titles and roles, with what we do instead of who we are deep inside as well as the role and the importance of intuition. As John explains, spiritual practices like meditation, mindfulness, and yoga not only clear our minds and help us better read, understand, and follow our intuition but they give us also a glimpse of a state of consciousness that is not bound and limited by the limiting and false self or ego.

Moreover, he provides a three-step process that starts with simply being present and leads to immersing and merging oneself with pure consciousness on one’s path to enlightenment. To do so, John combines analysis with a more intuitive approach by unclutching thoughts, reliving and completing, and hence releasing and freeing ourselves from childhood trauma and emotional pain patterns.

We talk about how to get started and what to watch out for, the metabolic switch with its different effects on the brain and the body, and how it can not only help alleviate or cure cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, asthma, and sleep apnea but also reduce inflammation and anxiety and lead to weight loss as well. Moreover, engaging in intermittent fasting is a great way of preventing future health issues and complications and boosting one’s overall health. 

Finally, Mark also explains how and why breakfast is not the most important meal and how pharmaceutical companies and the health care system tend to be geared toward profit-making and more interested in treating illnesses as opposed to preventing them in the first place. Finally, we discuss how mild stress or eustress can build resistance and make us more resistant as long as it is followed by enough rest and a recovery mode.

I was curious to know what Transcendental Meditation is, how it is done, and what its effects and benefits are on overall health including the body and the mind. Bob Roth gave us the ocean analogy and how the body and mind are not just connected but that they are basically one and interacting on a spectrum. Furthermore, he explained that TM is a very simple, natural, effortless, enjoyable meditation technique and how TM does not bring or carry with it an agenda, nor is it a philosophy or a religion, and how you can be 100% skeptical and the technique would still work perfectly well for you.

Then, Bob Roth goes over the three major types of meditation and explains how with TM, once you learn it, you can use and practice it for the rest of your life. Scientific studies have demonstrated that it reduces stress and anxiety, increases performance and creativity, and optimizes the brain with restful alertness via alpha 1 brainwaves. In fact, with each session, you can reach a state and level that is twice as deep as the deepest part of deep sleep according to research at Harvard Medical School.

In many ways and manners, we often rely on medication to deal with our health issues such as anxiety, depression, ADHD, PTSD, and insomnia despite the inherent and potential dangers and side effects of pharmaceuticals. On the other hand, TM is non-pharmaceutical and brings with it additional health benefits to our body by tuning up our nervous system while also giving both of them the rest and deep relaxation they need and require. As a matter of fact, we often spend more care, time, and attention on our cars and vehicles than on the maintenance, upkeep, and improvement of our health and well-being.

Finally, as Einstein has said “Life should be filled with magic and wonder” and with the ability to turn and dive deep within, we can not only heal deep-seated trauma and tap into the body’s internal healing self-repair mechanism but also connect with our inner core self, lead a calmer, more centered, and more productive life, make better and wiser decisions, and live and enjoy our existence much more fully and deeply.

Laura explains that at the root of many issues in our personal and professional lives is childhood trauma often stemming from dysfunctional families and unhealthy environments in which children were not cared for adequately and their needs were not met in addition to often being ignored, abused, and rejected by parents and caregivers.

This then shapes and forms the nervous system priming its fight-and-fight survival mode while at the same time creating the inner child within us that is trying to protect us by using and adhering to maladaptive coping skills that often include self-sabotage.

In these situations and under these circumstances, we lack the joy and enjoyment of life as we remain in a perpetual state of hypervigilance defending ourselves against threats and trying to keep us safe from harm. Moreover, we often subconsciously overreact to minor incidents and engage in negative thinking when someone phones and contacts us by expecting the worst or believing that we have done something wrong or are in trouble now.

But as Laura points out, we can practice and learn how to set boundaries because, without boundaries, it's impossible to have an authentic life. She also presents ways of reducing if not eliminating negative self-talk. These remedies need to be somatic in nature as CBT and behavior modification do not address the deeply held problems and issues, and often it is not due to a lack of willpower but rather a lack of self-knowledge. This is also why affirmations tend not to work in these cases and may even make things worse.

Finally, it is important not to be driven by external validation but rather to allow and give yourself some time and space for self-care as well as hobbies and activities you enjoy alongside real sensory delights. In this way, you are showing yourself appreciation and it impacts your self-esteem because you are telling your brain that you value and appreciate yourself for the valuable and beautiful being you already are both within and without.

We talk about the prevalence of trauma, how it can affect each one of us on different levels and at different places and workplaces, and how it often goes unnoticed and is not processed to the detriment of one’s own health and well-being as well as to that of others.

Dr. Gibson wrote the book to provide us with simple and useful body-based somatic tools to manage and deal with stress. Her approach is holistic in nature and includes a variety of personalized solutions and activities that are evidence-based and based on neuroscience and that reach and address the subconscious, preverbal memories and experiences encoded in our implicit memory.

Moreover, she talks about the current hesitation of changing and updating approaches, methods, and systems that are not or are no longer beneficial to our overall health and wellness. Since trauma is a reality and has affected and continues to affect all of us in different ways and manners, ranging from the pandemic to political conflicts and climate change, it is more than necessary to use the proper and effective tools to not only attain resilience but to tap into the new and more encompassing realm of posttraumatic growth.

Finally, with more research and more openness to innovation and respect for the individual’s lived experiences, the medical system would see dramatic shifts and improvements in healing trauma and disease while at the same time maintaining, fostering, and boosting overall physical, mental, and emotional health with a holistic paradigm at heart and in mind.

We talk about the importance of light for our biological and psychological functioning and how BLT (Bright Light Therapy) can in some cases have similar effects as antidepressants but without side effects. As Norman points out, it is best to combine different approaches, methods, and treatments to attain and achieve more wide-ranging and lasting benefits.

Moreover, we discuss the holistic view that would include foundational habits that we implement and integrate into our daily life by also adding and exploring Intermittent Fasting, mindfulness as well as meditation techniques, such as TM. In fact, Dr. Rosenthal has been practicing transcendental meditation for almost two decades and has written books on its transformative and healing effects.

Finally, we delve into the odd but surprisingly therapeutic practice of “bain de surprise” during 19th century France in which people would be unwittingly dunked into ice-cold baths. Though generally not recommended nowadays, a cool shower or cold bath during summer can often bring relief, and as Dr. Rosenthal explains, this can be one of many tools and tricks for one's personal toolbox to treat and work with Seasonal Affective Disorder.

There is a general lack of authenticity and genuine relationships with ourselves and others. Many are afraid of speaking in their own true voice and of sharing what they really feel and think because they are concerned about potential consequences and repercussions.

But this self-expression from the core self is vital for mental health and wellness especially since there is often a great distance between who we really are and what we show up as while often saying things that we do not actually believe.

To prevent mental dysfunction and anguish and to improve overall health and well-being, we can re-discover and re-connect with our true nature and explore these aspects via the performing and visual arts and including other creative endeavors that can range from music, dancing, singing, cooking, writing, gardening, and drama to cleaning and photography.

At the same time, we can try to gradually increment and incorporate our own unique voice and express our true being while also moving away from conventional methods and treatments that often include medication. Moreover, we have a lot to gain from embracing spirituality and divinity in order to see beyond our human lives and heal and be of service to others.

Susan gives an overview of Germans of Jewish origin that were living and contributing to the arts, music, and science of the region throughout time and history. In fact, her grandfather was a war hero from World War One fighting for Germany whereas her grandmother volunteered for the Red Cross at the time.

And yet, when the Nazis took power, none of that mattered to them and Jews were not allowed to own property, work, or even go to public schools. Many were taken to concentration camps and died under horrid and abominable conditions. Fortunately, through the heroic efforts of a cousin, her grandfather was saved.

We also talk about other brave people who stood up against evil and risked their lives doing good. Moreover, many children were hidden and saved by Catholic authorities. There were also various other Germans who not unlike Schindler helped Jewish victims.

Finally, we appreciate the efforts of the German government initiative to invite former German citizens to visit the country under the program entitled “Return of the Lost Citizen”. For the first time, Susan's mother opened up about her experiences, and right after, she decided to write this book. Kathe Mueller Slonim passed away in 2021.

One of the main differences is the effects of their environment and living conditions on their relationship with and rationale for having children. This comes with different worldviews where in North America we tend to foster individuality and focus on the needs of the individual child while in traditional communitarian societies, everything is geared towards what is best for the extended family and their group and community needs.

This is exemplified in child-rearing and parenting styles around doing chores. The North American parent tries to persuade their children to do chores and praise and reward them for it as if it were a favor, whereas, in traditional and indigenous societies, this is the expected outcome and norm and starts from a very early age. Children in North America receive parental care and attention, and we strive to satisfy and fulfill their needs and desires, while in communitarian (collectivist) societies, the children are expected to give and provide labor and care to the other members of the family and group.

Finally, we discuss the potential takeaways, how being and feeling useful to one’s society and community can help counteract feelings of loneliness and isolation and foster belonging and feelings of self-worth. Moreover, we debate the influence and effects of education as well as the lack thereof and how we can better understand and appreciate the many differences across nations and cultures.

Andrea explains the importance of planting seeds, the earth, the “womb of creation” and Mother Earth as well as acknowledging, recognizing, and identifying with the mystery and the sacred feminine. Although the masculine-driven and action-based aspect can beautifully piece things together, Western culture and civilization have been predominantly marked and shaped by strict adherence to logic at the expense of feelings, receptivity, and nurturing connections between fellow human beings and nature.

But as Andrea explains, feelings can be wisdom-keepers and when we follow them, they can lead us to truth. But at the same time, we need to face, acknowledge, and release feelings of pain and trauma and not give in to victimization or victimizing others. Since trauma often begets trauma, it is best to become clean and pure like newborns as they let feelings pass, travel, and flow through them without leaving behind substantial traces or lodged and stuck emotions. Finally, with a prayer of gratitude, we can move into a sacred way of being and choose to focus on the beauty of the natural world around us.

However, we often get stuck and trapped in our horizontal self but to free our joy, we need to reposition ourselves by connecting and reconnecting with our vertical self. This can be done in a variety of ways and manners, but it involves removing the blinders that we have accumulated and created with different belief systems, allowing ourselves to feel our feelings and to heal, and also by accepting and loving ourselves.

As Lisa beautifully puts it, it's all an inside job as the internal landscape is creating the external landscape and we can switch from a run-from to a run-to stance when it comes to joy and happiness in our lives. At the same, we can take advantage of everything that life has to offer, especially its difficult and hard lessons, which represent a golden opportunity to release and heal stuck trauma and to free our joy, awe, and wonder for this beautiful life we have been blessed with!

Juliet explains that money adds to happiness, but that true happiness is internal. By tapping into your dreams and natural gifts, often revealed during childhood, you can grow inwardly, which then manifests outwardly. This comes by having a blueprint, a trusted and tested vision as well through planting seeds and nourishing and cultivating them. By working hard and trusting the process, you can manifest and realize your most cherished dreams.

We also talk about his wonderful and candid book "Lost and Broken: My Journey Back from Chronic Pain and Crippling Anxiety" and how and where the medical healthcare system needs betterment and improvement as well as the importance of the medical and scientific community to be less driven by financial incentives and motivation while being more open to a number of different treatment options that have shown improvement and positive results, such as muscle activation therapy and intermittent fasting.

Finally, the Congressman stresses the importance of mental health care and how psychosomatic conditions are not "just in your head". The pain is very real and not imagined but it may have stress and anxiety as its principal cause, which need to be addressed and treated. As a result, it is necessary to overcome stigma and also have a more expansive and holistic view regarding medicine, science, and the nation itself.

Rebeccah is no stranger to extreme forms of trauma, but she has not only overcome and recovered from it all but she has attained emotional healing in the process. Now she is sharing her uplifting and hopeful message that healing is indeed possible for each and every one of us. It is simple but not easy and takes effort as well as dedication toward the healing process.

Though every person's road and journey will be different, the result turns out to be very similar, a life in which we are not afraid but live in profound joy moment by moment and where we grow and thrive with each passing day. Though faith can help us on the road to recovery, it's best to become an active participant and creator in and of one's own life's story as we come to realize that we have the power to create the life we really want.

Elaine explains the difference between mindful and soulful living and how the former is about taming the mind and focusing on the present, while the soul is more comprehensive and includes our whole multidimensional being with background and karma, past lives and spiritual aspects, qualities, and realms.

Furthermore, Elaine explains how we are here to learn to love better and to release negative karma/energy that binds us or holds us back from fulfilling our dharma and consecration, our spiritual duty and dedication that help us merge with and into the light.

As both the Buddha and Jesus have stated, the light, enlightenment, and the kingdom of God are within us, and with psychological and spiritual practices and qualities of constancy, contemplation, and consecration, we can come into touch with the divinity and goddess within us and attain spiritual alignment and wholeness.

Member of U.S. Congress Adam Smith went through longstanding struggles with chronic pain, anxiety, and depression, and he talks openly and candidly about how he felt and what he went through as well as how he eventually got better. There are different pathways for each and everyone to get better but at the same time, it is important to overcome obstacles including stigma and fears, one’s own and those of others.

In fact, although medication can provide temporary relief of symptoms, it is often not a long-term solution as it does not address the core issues. This can be done via different forms of psychotherapy, which help you examine your life and the things that might be causing your anxiety or depression. Although we all suffer from stress and anxiety, it would help to shed light on why it is we feel so anxious by not only managing our feelings but also uncovering underlying issues including trauma, negative experiences, and guilt, which we tend to bury and ignore in our lives.

Finally, we also discuss how anyone can benefit from being more honest with themselves, reducing feelings of guilt and shame alongside anger and constant worrying, and uncovering and processing the pain, fear, and grief we experience in our lives and that we should remind ourselves that we are all worthy of love and that we are not stuck and can indeed get better.

We cover a whole range of themes and topics, including the drive and restlessness of Generation X, the strive for perfection and one’s attachment style to the workplace, and the continuous quest for work-life balance amidst shifting identities and doing what one loves and enjoys. We also discuss the importance of give-and-take dynamics and how open-mindedness should not be marked by rigidity but rather needs to include, embrace, and foster flexibility.

Finally, we look at being quirky and the positive and creative sides of being “crazy” in the sense of pursuing passions and “weird” in the sense of being innovative and doing one's own thing. Creativity has been a staple in both of your lives and has often come from experiencing previous suffering and hardship, which pushes one to overcome negativity, seek meaning, wisdom, compassion, and positivity, and help and support those less fortunate than oneself.

We embark upon the question of what makes a good leader and how a company can become more effective and successful if they use and take advantage of embodiment practices by providing a safe psychological space to express and share different viewpoints and opinions.

However, the tips and advice given here can help anyone align themselves more within their personal as well as professional lives. Taking this mind-body approach means tuning in to your body and inner experiences, which can be scary and daunting at first but it will enrich lives and lead to a sense of agency, empowerment, risk-taking, and even personal fulfillment.

It can start with simple micro-shits in thought and behavior by asking yourself whether you want to have chocolate or strawberry ice cream (for the more health-conscious out there, replace with broccoli versus asparagus or your favorite health food) and to find ways and opportunities to enhance and strengthen the intuition or "Spidey sense" that we often ignore or disregard in our lives and to align ourselves with our authentic self and being.

In fact, the power of positivity and kindness can lift us all up, and he gives anecdotes and examples of "Elijah Moments", which would entail engaging in small acts and words of kindness that others would then pick up on and pay forward, hence starting a chain of positive reactions and events. Words have power over us, and it would help and benefit the world around us to spread positive messages and refrain from making negative comments and judgments.

Moreover, Rabbi Daniel Cohen explains the importance of blocking out noise, worries, and distractions and putting away our phones and gadgets to tap into and listen deeply to the inner voice and music within us. Not only do we have the opportunity to unlock our special and unique gifts, and find our path and vocation, but more importantly, we can live life at the highest frequency with a sense of calling every day.

Gary and Rob are founders of the “Journeymen Collective” that they describe as a personal development program for developing spiritual, mental, physical, and emotional levels of being with the use and aid of psilocybin aka “magic mushrooms”. Each of them describes their own personal journeys of spiritual growth and transcendence and how they can help and assist others with metaphysical and spiritual healing.

We also touch upon the qualities of using psychedelics responsibly and for spiritual enhancement, how current research shows promises in the fields of psychotherapy for dealing with anxiety and trauma, and how they can be used and utilized to not only unblock energies and stagnation in the mind and the body but also to lead to a path of exploration of the self.

These guided sessions are specifically curated for the people they work with, helping to synthesize and process the new insights, experiences, and information to funnel and channel them into one’s life, relationships, and business. I also ask each of them to explain their respective mantras and how it pertains to their spiritual beliefs and identities.

By looking at all the angles, we come to see and understand that our bodies communicate with us, whereas pain tells us that something is wrong. Instead of treating the symptoms with medication, it is essential and vital to explore and dig into life experiences and trauma to get to the root of the issues, a type of “psychological acupuncture” to release the stress and the build-up of energy.

Kamilah explains how we can get caught up in a loop and that change is hard but that we can create a new personality by facing trauma and increasing self-awareness, self-regulating our stress levels, and building new and healthier habits and mindsets. As such, we can start detoxing our bodies and minds by resolving and dissolving negative subconscious behavior patterns.

Finally, we are often rushed and driven by work, daily pressures, and chronic stress. We are used to running around and want to get quick results by taking shortcuts but without taking the time to rest and enjoy life and just be grateful for what we have. A case in point is the regular use of fast food instead of slowing down, relishing our meals, and connecting with our loved ones while sharing bonds and quality time with each other.

Dr. Bashah is a licensed clinical psychologist with a private practice in Scottsdale, Arizona, and Hon. Paul E. Johnson is a political analyst and the former mayor of Phoenix. They talk about the dangers of ideology and radicalization in the current political environment. Dr. Bashah’s experience in criminal, immigration, and civil courts alongside the political savviness of Hon. Paul E. Johnson makes them expert analysts on not only why people tend to move to the extreme but also how to find agency, peace, and healing amid anger and hostility and politically charged discussions and surroundings.

Emily explains the current political climate by tapping into research in neuroscience while Paul shows us how both the left and the right on the political spectrum alongside media outlets have engaged in aggressive tactics and fear-based strategies to further their own agendas.

Yet, it is important that we look at the facts and consult different sources and that we foster personal agency throughout and not fall sway to the inherent negative bias. We all have the capacity to do good or evil and often it comes down to personal choice. As a result, we ought to tap into our shared humanity and values and choose what is best for ourselves, our loved ones, our community, and our country.

In fact, the movers and shakers of history have always believed that they can bring about positive change, and we should not lose sight of the many options and opportunities that are within reach and within each of us to solve these lingering issues together and with love and empathy.

Acting can be very tough and demanding starting from landing a role via auditions to dealing with constant rejection. Then there is also the pressure of performing well on stage by using one’s body and emotions as a tool, which can often be physically and emotionally draining. Sean experienced its toll first-hand and up close and personal during “Billy Elliot: The Musical” when he suffered his first-ever panic attack.

In fact, he will be launching his highly anticipated podcast “Stage Combat: A Mental Health Story” on May 16 during Mental Health Awareness Month. In this scripted nonfiction podcast, scored and complete with sound effects just like old-fashioned radio shows, he will tell his story in a novel and groundbreaking format: as a True Crime Story followed by an interview with a mental health professional.

Moreover, we talk about the potential dangers of “method acting” and the importance of having and ensuring a safe workplace in which mental health is regularly and openly talked about. It is also essential to overcome stigmas surrounding not only the acting profession but also men as they often struggle with mental health issues but lack the emotional support and resources; as a matter of fact, guys are often afraid of looking and reaching out for help because they do not wish to be perceived as weak and vulnerable by others.

Mike explains how work has come to define and control many aspects of our lives and that our to-do lists and domestic duties are endlessly growing, especially for those of us currently in the “sandwich generation”! We have lost many transition rituals and even at home we often get caught up in the nets of social media, passive leisure, and mindless entertainment.

But a lack of fun and joy and being constantly driven by work often leads us to burnout. The causes often stem from our Western conception of chasing and pursuing happiness and due to a task-based education that maximizes work and effort but minimizes leisure and idleness. Ironically, we work more and more, but we are our least productive selves.

The pandemic has led to the Great Resignation, and many are now looking for a fun work environment combined with causes that they care about. Moreover, the face and nature of work have changed and we are more aware and conscious of sleep hygiene and healthy habits.

Nonetheless, we need to enjoy our lives more and more fully and not feel guilty about our “guilty pleasures.” A reframing of our mindset and priorities could lead us to value and appreciate our precious and finite commodity of time much more than the mere capacity of working to make money and to replace the quest for dopamine with oxytocin as we connect with ourselves and others in more authentic ways.

Although we briefly touch upon emotional voting and the fallacy of voting for someone we perceive as pleasant at the expense of policy as well as the dangers of voting against as opposed to for someone, we delve deeper into the pitfalls of black-and-white thinking and of jumping and rushing to conclusions.

It is, however, best to avoid fast thinking, to slow down our instinctive responses and emotional reactions, and often overreactions but to evaluate the situation in a calm, reasonable, and mindful manner.

Furthermore, we want to not overlook the human element in all of this and realize that behind uniforms, job titles, and positions as well as situational contexts and factors, there is a human being at work and at play. Whether we are dealing with police officers, inmates, or politicians, we want to look at the bigger and more colorful picture and not be led astray, misguided, or held hostage by our emotions only.

The film plays around with the concepts and narratives of documentary versus fiction and gives us glimpses of the lives of various troubled youths (and some adults to boot). But in fact, as the filmmakers explain it was all very scripted with very little room for improvisation as the young actors had to learn and memorize their given lines.

In fact, The Worst Ones is a tribute, homage, and declaration of love to acting as well as how it can on one hand turn latent material and potential into reality while at the same time releasing pent-up emotions and serving as an outlet for the frustrations, pain, and suffering associated with struggling and at-risk youth as portrayed in the movie.

Moreover, the film depicts and shows us the stress and pressures of filmmaking by creating an anxiety-ridden and overly ambitious but well-meaning director as one of their characters. Although the filmmakers themselves enjoyed making their first movie, it was a bit like "plunging into an ocean of anxiety" as you do not always know how you are going to resurface and when.

Finally, the filmmakers explain how cinema can serve as a tool to handle emotions and can even become a source of healing for fragile children and youth. In fact, acting can be a saving force for finding one’s way in life and identifying one’s talent and vocation.

This is impressive filmmaking from the pair of young and talented filmmakers Lise Akoka and Romane Gueret and a special thank you to the amazing translator of this interview & podcast Lilia Pino Blouin!

This book makes powerful and spiritual wisdom accessible to everyone and shows how we could all benefit from the Shabbat mindset to cultivate and expand the good within and to gradually fill our lives with more joy, bliss, and peace from moment to moment.

We also touch upon mindfulness and psychedelics and how each could be potentially used to gain insight into oneself, but it is also important to do the necessary inner spiritual work to integrate, incorporate, and embed those transformative experiences within our daily existence.

The rabbi gives excellent and accessible analogies to make his point. We should treat the spiritual quest for enlightenment the same way we build and flex our muscles, gradually and with consideration so that we do not overburden and accidentally injure ourselves.

Apart from work, it also takes time and patience for the spiritual lessons to take hold. In fact, just like bread and wine, we may need these ideas and experiences to ferment, and then they can become more valuable to ourselves and to everyone around us.

Finally, we should not neglect the here and now and the opportunities to enjoy every moment to the fullest with friends and loved ones because in the end, the journey is the destination, and we need to celebrate and be grateful for those precious and unique moments we are given and blessed with in this life.

Fintan talks about the various changes and challenges both on personal as well as cultural and societal levels that have shaped and formed Ireland. One of the most harmful elements has been the dangers and abuses through impunity that stems from a toxic fusion between religion and politics.

Furthermore, a limited and often misguided and static view of culture alongside a fear of and paranoia around threatening influences from different religious and political backgrounds has led not only to stagnation but has been the cause of pain and suffering and an overall lack of progress. Brexit and Northern Ireland have brought new challenges, but it helps to have an American president who has Irish roots.

Nonetheless, things are hopeful and are changing for the better as there is more economic prosperity, technological advancement as well as access and opportunities for broader education across the region. It also comes with the realization that cultures are fluid and that it is best to accept, embrace, hold, and be comfortable with different identities at the same time while at the same time bridging differences and underscoring the common ground shared by the Irish in their native land as well as abroad hand-in-hand with their unique, culturally relevant and creative contributions to the arts, literature, and, more recently, cinema.

We talk about how he started off as a skeptic but after witnessing, evaluating, and documenting various paranormal cases as a psychiatrist, he became convinced by the available data and information. In fact, he has seen more cases than any physician in the world and probably in history, and he is visited and consulted by leaders from various major religions. However, he explains that demonic possessions tend to be relatively rare and ought not to be confused and confounded with mental illness.

Moreover, we discuss Hollywood’s most famous and widely known example of diabolical attacks, the popular “The Exorcist” itself based on a true story. Dr. Gallagher points out that there are some discrepancies with real-life cases of exorcism but that, in fact, people can be liberated after doing important and essential soul work themselves in addition to spiritual help, guidance, and prayers.

Finally, we are not left at the whim and mercy of evil spirits but in many cases, we inadvertently and foolishly invite them into our world. At the same time, there are Satanists who worship evil and use evil spirits for nefarious and selfish purposes. Yet, as human beings, we have free will and have been given the freedom to choose between good and evil.

We talk about her personal experiences of growing up in a violent and war-torn kibbutz, vital and life-changing lessons on peace and wisdom from her father, her own experience of prejudice and antisemitism in the United States, and how dancing helped her express herself freely and fully.

Moreover, we touch upon her own longstanding engagement in bringing peace, healing, and empathy through nonverbal communication including healing touch and dance therapy as well as the importance of expressing oneself and listening to others without judgment and with an open and caring heart.

This quest for peace in the Middle East has been led by remarkable women like Nitsan who inspire us to look past ideologies, upbringing, conflict, and war and to view and see "the other" not with hatred but to relate to them with compassion while trying to heal ancient wounds and suffering not only regarding the Arab-Israeli conflict but all types of conflicts around the world ranging from the personal to the geopolitical.

We talk about the underlying theme of hiding that has been the story and the personal experience of many people who have differing and non-conformist identities and sexual orientations. Although Freud, the father of psychoanalysis as well as subsequent psychoanalyst schools and theories has been relatively open, accepting, and tolerant of different sexual orientations, the main perspective and orientation have been predominantly heterosexist and cisgender.

As an opponent of conversion therapy, Dr. Drescher explains the significant harm and trauma caused by such unscientific, misguided, and futile “treatments,” which also reveal a general lack of understanding of the issues and situation. Moreover, he adds that many young people have become displaced and homeless by being rejected by or thrown out of their homes due to an overall lack of acceptance of their parents, their society, and their religious communities.

Currently, the world is in a state of turmoil filled with anxiety and insecurity while a lack of dialogue and willingness to converse and hear differing viewpoints has created an impasse becoming fertile ground and fodder for mis- and disinformation often directed at minority groups like immigrants and LGTBQ people.

Moreover, we talk about the benefits of communicating with deceased loved ones to help deal with grief and about how spirituality has become more common and accepted not only amongst the general population but also embraced and promoted by the mental health fields of psychology and psychiatry. Hopefully, these fascinating and intriguing phenomena will be studied, researched, and investigated with more openness and without bias and preconceived notions.

Kirk talks about his timely, awesome, and fascinating book “Life-Enhancing Anxiety: Key to a Sane World” and how our anxieties are due to existential issues stemming from the birth of trauma and fear of death and the unknown.

Moreover, Kirk illustrates his views by underscoring important and essential psychoanalytic insights provided by the wonderful, profound, and soulful Otto Rank as well as Kirk’s own fascinating analysis of horror movies and literature and how this “cosmic fear” can help connect us with our true and authentic essence and being and lead us to the experience of awe and amazement.

Master Sha explains how we have four bodies and how the universal law of Shen Qi Jing alongside a focus on positive information flow can lead to self-healing, happiness, and enlightenment.

Tao science like quantum mechanics probes deeper and goes further than traditional Western science in addressing the ultimate source and creation of life that relates to the soul and the spirit.

We also talk about the limits of consciousness, meditation, and mindfulness as opposed to the vast dimensions of the spiritual world and soulfulness and how language has its own limitations as the Tao cannot be expressed but only symbolized or alluded to via art, images, and poetry.

We talk about various aspects of care and caregiving, including self-care and providing presence, awareness, and emotional support for people, loved ones, and our sons and daughters going through difficult moments, mental health challenges, and addiction. Many find it difficult to ask for help but it is a sacred thing to give and receive help. By being authentic and mindful, connecting with others, and grounding ourselves in the present, we can reach upwards, we can welcome and embrace personal growth, fulfill our potential, and realize our many possibilities while exploring and expanding who we truly are.

Joy explains that we all need to start off our career journey with self-reflection and self-discovery and to show up with our true authentic selves. Being authentic is a life-long process and journey, and it takes courage to be different, but we want to win and succeed on our terms, connect in open and honest ways and manners with others, surround ourselves with a positive, honest, practical, and trustworthy team while thinking and dreaming big along the way.

Marilyn has been helping people for over 40 years and enjoys working with first responders not only to deal with trauma and cumulative toxic stress but to set and prepare these everyday heroes for a journey toward Resilience and Growth. It is important to overcome internal and external stigma and to be open about traumatic experiences by sharing stories and talking to others and reaching out for help and assistance.

By taking the time and putting the effort to process and incorporate their traumatic experiences, first responders can gain significant and life-changing insights that would then connect them on a much deeper, more profound, and even more spiritual level with their friends, loved ones, and families.

JJ has more than two decades of experience in technology and within Silicon Valley, but nowadays, she wants to share her personal insights and spiritual journey with us so that we can seek, find, and establish our own unique pathways; in this way, we can go past the limiting and limited grasp of the ego and connect with the light and energies that are bigger than ourselves while also rediscovering and rekindling the magic and beauty that has always surrounded us and our lives but we have not seen and noticed since the world of our childhood.

Dr. Hutchison explains that underneath our thoughts, actions, and behaviors are often unexamined, raw, and unconscious emotions and that we tend to follow them in an impulsive and reactive manner. This can have serious and dangerous repercussions and consequences not only in our daily interactions with each other where often anger and resentment become more pronounced and come to the forefront, but this can also be reflected in our political choices in terms of “emotional voting” and our overall beliefs.

By bringing and tapping into his impressive and wide-ranging personal experience as a clinical psychologist, Bruce offers various suggestions and solutions that each of us can benefit from to better manage and regulate our emotions. Furthermore, we provide different sports analogies to illustrate our views, in my case, an example of basketball while Bruce uses dodgeball to demonstrate our reactions to different emotions.

Throughout our discussion, neither one of us takes a political stance or position here but we attempt to bridge differences, create and foster a common ground of respect for ourselves and others, and empathize and understand what emotions, needs, and desires people are trying to express and communicate.

He talks about the stigma around executive loneliness and why the corporate world often ends up suffering from anxiety, stress, and isolation, and why executives find it rather difficult and challenging to reach out and ask for help.

We also discuss the warning signs and symptoms of depression and burnout, how addiction can take many forms and guises, and how we can overcome mental health issues and challenges with his program of 5 Steps and Pathways toward improved mental and physical health and well-being.

We talk about the importance of community and supporting and taking care of each other, which includes the various animals of the region. Monda has made it her personal goal and mission to save and rescue as many dogs as possible, to ensure that the animals are safe and sound, to provide resources and education to local people regarding spaying and neutering pets, and to promote the overall health and well-being of all the animals.

Samantha talks about her inspiration behind this documentary and how she is trying to shed light on the community and its residents by underscoring the plight of many neglected animals and individuals but also highlighting the efforts of rescue workers and different organizations.

Both also point out that the authorities need to do more in this respect and that women have come forth and become strong and compassionate leaders regarding these issues and that they have helped their community in innumerable ways and manners.

We talk about overcoming fear and anxiety and spending your moments and heartbeats wisely; how our intuition can guide us towards more peace and tranquility in our lives and how we can effectively change our mindset to have better and happier outcomes in all aspects of our lives.

When push comes to shove, we need to remind ourselves that our feelings are precious, that the universe loves and supports us, and that we need to pay attention, have awareness and read the many signs and signals surrounding us everywhere. At that point, love will flow and go smoothly, and it will become an exciting game of sorts!

Based on current research on neuroscience, Sarah shows us how traditional parenting methods that rely strongly on discipline and punishment will not work in the long run but that conscious parenting that involves and nurtures connection-based relationships can be much better and much more effective models to follow and emulate.

Finally, Sarah talks about the importance of storytelling, Improv, and play-based teaching and learning, and how we can have more authentic, kind, peaceful, and love-filled interactions with ourselves and with our children.

Rachel explains how dreams have been used in the past for guidance, be it in the Bible, or by previous inventors and entrepreneurs, such as Google's Larry Page, and how it served as inspiration for artists, musicians, and filmmakers including James Cameron's Terminator film and the Beatles' song Yesterday, among others!

Dreams come in different formats, shapes, and sizes, but once you respect, interpret, and understand your dreams, you can use the information available to choose the best path forward for yourself while aligning yourself with your vocation and picking and choosing the life and the business of your dreams!

Ric discusses how intuition and following your heart play a significant role in decision-making and finding happiness by giving anecdotes of his own life alongside various examples of celebrities. For instance, we learn how Dolly Parton said no to the King (not Charles but Elvis!) and why Albert Einstein would not have made a successful bull rider!

We both also underscore the importance of humor and that self-deprecating humor and being vulnerable are not only signs of strength and confidence but can help to connect with others and even lead to success. Moreover, apart from overcoming fear, showing courage, and stepping out of our comfort zone, we want to set specific goals, reiterate them, and visualize successful outcomes so that they can become true, real, and tangible in our lives.

It is like a magical formula, and it works wonders. In fact, this has helped Ric not only face various challenges in his life, but it has helped him become an elected congressman despite having been an underdog with little to no previous political experience.

Moreover, Jill talks about goal setting while taking into account the influence of the subconscious mind as well as the importance of finding a business that fits and suits your life and lifestyle and that matches your emotional needs and desires.

Finally, she also explains that discovering yourself and being true to yourself gives you immense power and is a catalyst and reliable measure for success. We all have special gifts and should embrace and celebrate them and instead of dimming our light, we would be much better off and much happier and more successful by shining, expanding, and brightening our unique brand of magic.  

As she explains, life not only begins and ends with a story, but storytelling can be used to connect, engage, and inspire while helping us to create a brighter future and foment authentic relationships with ourselves and others.

Moreover, we talk about the importance of humor and boots (!), how to harvest and distill the potential for creativity out of boredom, how to be aware of the dark spaces of digital screens and technology, and how the process of grief matures us and helps us to grow on our journey of life.

Finally, we also talk about her various encounters with celebrities including meeting both Gloria Steinem and Mr. T. on the Larry King Show as well as her own legacy and impressive and outstanding work in the field of addiction and dependency and the National Association for Children of Alcoholics, which she co-founded.

We talk about awakening and nurturing the inner child within us all to enjoy life and have fun and how the trickster archetype, existing in every culture, folklore, and mythology, is in essence neither good nor evil but is more interested in having a good time.

The American tricksters range from cartoon characters like Bugs Bunny to comedians like the Marx Brothers and Andy Kaufman, and they often embrace or encourage disruptive play and occasional mischief while being generally and most of the time of pure heart and filled with good intentions.

Kristen explains how our definition, understanding, and concept of money are faulty and misguided, how this creates the illusion of scarcity, and how we can attain abundance by changing the way we perceive money as well as markets, economics, and governments.

Moreover, there is a significant and existential difference between wealth and money. The universe is abundant, and we need to realize our potential and embrace and develop our unique gifts by giving service to others. Money is simply a technology and a tool of measurement that facilitates the transfer of wealth via a receipt of services given in addition to stored value.

Finally, as a Certified Digital Currency Professional, she sheds light on the current mistrust, doubt, and fear around blockchain, cryptocurrencies like bitcoin, and how they are essentially “digital gold” waiting to be regulated and mined for their inherent true potential and myriad possibilities.

These children are taught to not only think for themselves but at the same time to accept other viewpoints and opinions and to not engage in violence but to replace reflexive actions with reflective behaviors. We also talk about Elvis who is not only Kevin’s muse of choice but whose music, voice, and life move, inspire, and build bridges.

Dr. Waismann explains the issues at heart and how and why his ANR (Accelerated Neuro-Regulation) treatment and clinics make a significant difference for patients suffering from opioid dependency all around the world.

Furthermore, we talk about various challenges and setbacks, including greed, lack of knowledge and accountability as well as stigma and false depictions and understanding of dependency and addiction across the board.

We also look at how mindsets and our way of thinking about, looking at, and dealing with addiction need to change, how the brain is adaptive, and how spirituality, love, and gratitude can increase our overall endorphin levels and bring us joy, happiness, and natural highs in our day-to-day lives.

We talk about manifestation, what it is and how to bring it about, and the importance of an overall alignment of intentions, emotional states, actions as well as spiritual and physical realities.

Finally, we dig deeper into the difference between meditation, meditative states, and mindfulness, how to sync up different layers of reality, and how we can step and go beyond intentions and lean into having and experiencing a richer, wealthier, and more fulfilling life!

We discuss how poetry uses words but goes beyond them to express deep, profound, and hard-to-express feelings and emotions and that the arts, especially heartfelt music, the “poetry of our times” can strongly resonate with us and touch and move us during times of pain, suffering, and distress.

We also talk about magic and how dear people who have passed on may still have spiritual connections and even communication with us expressed via dreams, thoughts, or nature. Mylo also points out the benefits of keeping a journal and of becoming aware and mindful of inflection points in our lives and gaining confidence for changing in the future and how the pandemic has made many people more thoughtful and introspective.

Marni explains that it’s a courageous choice to step out of it and that she has been living in a state of “emotional sobriety” where she is aware of her actions and reactions without personal judgment or blame. She also trusts her intuition and gut feelings and puts her trust and faith in the universe to take and guide her to the place she is supposed to be.

We also talk about how to increase positivity and reduce negativity in your life, including how to best handle and deal with Social Media and negative people and family members. Marni also explains that “laughter is the most healing free therapeutic drug on this planet” and that it is contagious spreading good vibes across space and time. She also reminds us that our current situation is not permanent and encourages us to find the silver lining within situations with the realization that accountability is often the cure and key to one’s own recovery.

Shaun talks about his fascinating Code Method which consists of 12 personal life-affirming commitments and promises that provide a contract and engagement with one’s deepest held values and that can not only inspire and motivate us to be the best version of ourselves but also help others to be better. The Code can be applied to any aspect of our personal and professional life, but it can also connect us with others in meaningful ways and manners and help us find common ground, and bridge our differences with others.

The code is free and open source, and it will hopefully inspire everyone to write their own personal list of goals and values and to intentionally use the healing and transformational power of hope to create a state of spiritual flow and connectivity with ourselves and others.

Shaun has suffered tragic and devastating loss and grief in his personal life, but he is a vivid and inspiring role model for all of us to keep pushing forward against the waves, to persevere, catch our breath and ride the waves on the ebbs and flows of life over and over again and be stoked and driven by our internal passion and fire while eventually becoming a master of ourselves and the situations.

We discuss the personal experiences, potential difficulties, and worries alongside the many joys of being a parent especially when it comes to anxious children and teenagers. We also draw parallels between the world of teaching and that of parenting and how it is important to listen and tune into your child and give them room and space to grow and develop their unique personhood with their very own shiny, colorful, and beautiful personality.

Moreover, we discuss the intimate links between sensitivity and anxiety and that with the proper tools and tips, it can be and become a true blessing and an enriching trait. We also touch upon framing since the story we tell ourselves often becomes true as well as how our anxiety does not define us and is often a by-product of greatness and a special gift inherent in us! Finally, we should enjoy the ride of parenthood and fully enjoy all the good things!

We also look at the current research undertaken regarding psychedelics both at Harvard with the New Center for Neuroscience of Psychedelics at the Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) as well as Berkely with BCSP, the Berkeley Center for the Science of Psychedelics research and training facilitation program and how these approaches differ from the previously attempted but failed Department of Social Relations. Moreover, we talk about the stigma associated with psychedelic drugs as well as their potential and beneficial therapeutic use as evidenced in the work of Michael Pollan and the Netflix documentary “How to Change Your Mind”.

Finally, we discuss the difficulties and challenges of a truly interdisciplinary as opposed to a multi-disciplinary approach and how it could be organized and structured in university settings as well as the many gains and benefits it has brought about and could bring about in the future.

Moreover, we discuss the importance of talking freely and openly about difficult and complex topics, issues, and emotions, how we all need to foster and increase awareness, empathy, and inclusivity, and how these wonderful books can serve as conversation starters and discussion topics that could be used at school and at home.

We talk about the doctors' and hospital staff's bravery and how they defied the Nazis by also risking their own and their families' lives in the process. Moreover, they engaged in clandestine operations by using secret transistor radios and falsifying documents as well as passports under the Vatican seal.

It's a story that few have heard about but it is a stunning historical fact that comes to light via this documentary as well as a potential upcoming feature film based on the subject.

Ram Lev talks about the main ideas of his “5 Easy Steps” course and the importance of the mind and human thought and how it can lead to anarchy or peace and harmony and how our words and actions have direct effects and consequences on our relationships with ourselves and others.

We also discuss the relevance of pausing and creating a space between stimulus and response; this can be brought about via meditation and mindfulness in action. It can calm and quiet the mind and gradually build willpower and self-reliance affecting our conscience, which is the only decision-maker of the mind. Through continuous practice and dedication, we can increase our Super Conscious Wisdom and gain freedom from fear and attain a positive and more enlightened outlook on life.

CJ talks about his objective approach toward these social and cultural issues, what true diversity, inclusivity, and leadership are and what they look like at the workplace, and how to streamline the system to assess, evaluate and produce the desired results. CJ also looks at the brain science behind having biases, making assumptions, and jumping to conclusions, and how to make relevant and necessary changes to create a zone of psychological and emotional safety.

Finally, we look at what makes a good leader, how to develop and foster strong leadership skills, and why it comes down to emotional and social intelligence as well as true empathy.

We talk about how happiness is contagious and how people feel more involved, inspired, and motivated by real and relatable personal stories. We also discuss Amy's scientific, evidence-based, and practical approach to self-help and happiness as well as her past research and travel experiences in the poor and remote regions of Brazil.

Then, we briefly go over the different elements of happiness but mainly focus on gratitude, a personality trait you can add to your personality; forgiveness and leaving the baggage of the past filled with resentments and disappointments behind you to move forward into the present and future without reliving those negative emotions; and the importance of me-time and we-time.

Moreover, we talk about why it is necessary to step outside of your comfort zone, be yourself, and pursue your passions, and how many elements of happiness are connected and interlinked.

Finally, we discuss the diversity and inclusion of different topics and people from various backgrounds and belief systems, and how Amy has helped revitalize and expand this already popular and successful series and franchise.

We also talk about the quest for peace, justice, and the importance of freedom of expression, how the Western world is relatively privileged in comparison, and how this is a serious issue and struggle in various parts of the world.

Finally, we talk about personal connections with the arts, how they can help raise awareness and potentially affect policies as well as David's future and upcoming filmmaking plans and projects.

We cover neuroscience and child development and how to teach executive function skills, and how to foster curiosity and creativity while instilling and building upon meta-awareness and mindful moments for both parents and their children. We also discuss the importance of having downtime, spending time interacting with the family and taking advantage of teachable moments. These helpful, practical, and useful tips and tools can increase perspective-taking, understanding, and empathy both for ourselves as well as our children.

We talk about dealing with difficult times as well as worry, fear, and anxiety, and how faith, writing, and the pleasures and enjoyment of good food and friendship can bring about more joy and foster more connection in our lives.

Moreover, we discuss the differences between urban and country life and how it is important to break barriers and cross comfort zones to create healthy and supportive relationships with ourselves and others.

Finally, Julie highlights that we all have our own unique gifts and talents that we need to mine and develop and that is important to pursue our passions and our unique touch as nobody can do something quite as we can, and we all bring something different to the table.

And in the end, as the Beatles sing, all you really need is love!

I also look at different emanations of this worry and concern in terms of anger, hostility, ridicule, sarcasm, and bullying. But the right attitude with a growth mindset can help us get back on track towards better mental health and help us overcome various obstacles and limitations in our lives.

There is also a clear difference between narcissistic freedom and liberation from one's fears and anxieties. True empowering freedom is often combined with caring for others and social responsibility.

I also look at spirituality and religious faith that can help unite us instead of polarizing and dividing us from each other. In the end, I present a summary that includes the three main takeaways of this episode. Thanks for listening!

That said, creativity can be fickle as can be evidenced by "writer's block" and a general lack of ideas and imagination when it comes to problem-solving or thinking outside of the box.

Moreover, we also discuss flow and brainwaves and how creativity is linked to curiosity, productivity, success, mindfulness, and happiness. Plus, there are plenty of Beatles references and Einstein quotes to illustrate our points and views.

We talk about spying and espionage as metaphors for acting and the search for identity as well as the importance of telling stories that include cross-cultural perspectives to help bridge differences and bring people together. Moreover, Shila talks about the healing powers of the arts via catharsis and underscores the talent, enthusiasm, and passion that are often characteristic of Persian people and their culture.

We talk about her Pajamas Program, the symbolism of pajamas, the importance of a bedtime routine and ritual for young children as well as the relevance of reading books. Genevieve found her passion by listening to her heart instead of her head voice and has taken a leap of faith to help and support children across the nation.

Finally, we discuss the importance of having leaders instead of bosses and that the workplace would strongly benefit from a shared work culture that is built and thrives on inclusion, gratitude, respect, and appreciation across all levels of the company.

We talk about the many beauties and miracles of life and how it's important to accept life's lessons and invitations to deal with trauma and achieve deep self-healing and how in our quest to look for perfection, we often tend to overlook and forget that life is perfect in and of itself.

Dr. Hahn explains how intuition is the deepest form of knowing and that the rational mind is often traumatized and run by traumatic experiences of the past. Finally, when you heal, you not only transcend the self in the present but also your relationships with external events, which extend ripple effects across time and space and transform energy levels across the board.

We talk about some of her reasons and motivations for founding the previously secret society, how happiness is sometimes a choice, and how we can consciously target specific happiness zappers and other annoyances in life as well as how grief and mourning are parts of life. Moreover, happiness changes with time alongside our age and maturity levels but we should be open to new experiences, including karaoke, dancing, and whatever else we may be afraid of trying out in life.

Moreover, we talk about majority rule and respecting the rules of minorities, how democracy is complicated and messy, and how it needs to ensure that all voices are heard and given the attention and respect they merit. We also talk about how accepting and abiding by the rules are important and necessary for liberal democracy and its institutions to prevail.

For many of us, work may provide us with meaning and purpose, but there are also other ways and avenues, such as helping others and living in a close-knit and supportive community.

We then take a critical look at money and wealth alongside research on their correlation with happiness and life satisfaction. We also discuss the importance of mindfulness and mindset and how we should be more open-minded when it comes to success and failure.

We also talk about having clear visions for the future, especially in the face of suffering and turmoil, the need for practicing and cultivating a sense of freedom aligned with care and compassion, and what makes a "conscious classroom" in our modern era.

We discuss attachment and detachment, the small ego versus a larger sense and experience of the self, the pursuit of happiness and satisfaction in the face of change and impermanence, the benefits of mindfulness, and whether Buddhism, in our view, allows and gives room for spirituality, a personal soul and a potential afterlife.

One of the most noteworthy consequences of the fallout has been that it has overshadowed the accomplishments of various talented actors, actresses, filmmakers, and films as well as a higher level of inclusion and diversity across the board.

At the end of the program, I provide the three main takeaways from the Oscars 2022, which include thoughts on violence, the state of Mental Health of celebrities as well as including and giving a voice to those who cannot speak.   

We also talk about the specific challenges that black women face who often feel pushed to the margins and how they can create their own versions of success, gain courage and align themselves with their authentic selves and embrace and celebrate their unique power and magic

He also mentions how certain trauma and adverse childhood experiences may make us more understanding, sensitive, and aware, whereas mindfulness would be the first step to recognizing and identifying dysfunctional thought patterns and developing willpower, self-discipline, and resilience. Finally, we also talk about addiction in its different forms and patterns and how the Serenity Prayer can offer all of us much-needed wisdom and guidance.

In this interview, we talk about his book "Personal Effects: What Recovering the Dead Teaches me about Caring for the Living", how personal effects memorialize lost loved ones and the value of human life, how media and Social Media fail to capture the violence and suffering in a multidimensional context as well as his views on leadership and managing difficult, devastating and heartbreaking situations.

In this interview, Sarah discusses how to acknowledge, deal with and overcome emotional trauma. Moreover, she explains how personal, intergenerational, and cultural trauma fossilizes in unconscious contracts that often result in blame, self-sabotage, violence, and aggression toward oneself and others. Finally, she details how to release those unconscious tendencies in order to attain more peace, well-being, freedom, and the overall healing of our psyche.

We also touch upon potentially dating humanoid androids, driving driverless cars, and the effects and repercussions on the economy and jobs as well as the possible implications of basic universal income on our livelihood and personal identity.

Then I look at some general issues and problems with Social Media regarding algorithms, extreme content, echo chambers, and confirmation bias as well as the need for empathy, diversity, and the other point of view.

The show ends with my Three Takeaways from Social Media and what we should beware of and be aware of to make its use less problematic and controversial and more joyful and rewarding.

Becky talks about her book "The Happiness Recipe: A Powerful Guide to Living What Matters" and discusses the paths and means of increasing joy, maximizing happiness, and personal satisfaction by using evidence-based findings in neuroscience, gaining insights into our core selves and desires, and being led and guided by our intuition so that we can fill our lives with more positivity, authenticity, and lasting happiness.

We also discuss how the Great Resignation is an era of global reprioritization but why it could be a mistake for some people, how happiness is contagious and why it is important to share it with others, how communication is key in all our relationships as well as the joys and challenges of parenthood and how children bring us and teach us about happiness.

On the other hand, Chris shares his more diverse relationship experiences, including various years of online dating with tips on good practices as well as potential red flags, challenges, and complications to look out for. Yet in either case, it is essential to be as honest and authentic as possible and to start off with a good, loving, and growth-oriented relationship with oneself while also being open and considerate towards others.

In today's show, I talk about growing up without the benefits and drawbacks of technology, how I learned to welcome and embrace it in my personal and professional life and how to ensure to make the most out of it and not become controlled by technology.

I also talk about the many benefits and potential drawbacks of remote working, which has been and continues, for better and for worse, to be the reality of many of us today, courtesy of the pandemic.

Keren explains that mindfulness is a crucial element that we need to embrace as leaders and individuals and that this could help leaders in leading financially successful organizations while also motivating the employees for meaningfulness and intrinsic motivation.

We also discuss how to respond mindfully to stressful and uncertain moments and situations, the importance of finding the right work-life balance and creating a safe and comfortable workplace and environment for everyone. Communication, especially in this day and age, is of great importance and can help nourish trust and respect across the board and create a sense of community.

Finally, leaders need to foster, promote and encourage autonomy/self-management over control and micromanagement and implement what Keren calls "dialogue space" in order to listen to different and diverse voices and to allow for creativity, which would then lead to relationships based on trust and partnership built around a growth mindset.

We discuss equal access and the basic right to quality education as an important tool for self-discovery and empowerment as well as a solution to many societal problems. Moreover, we consider the psychological and emotional impact and harm that deficit language, stereotypes, and prejudices cause within children and young adults.

In addition, ingrained and implicit cultural drives like perfectionism and the pressure to perform should give way to fostering strengths, building confidence, empathy, and wisdom, and bringing forth and developing the unique gifts and blessings, the innate genius that’s within each of us, regardless of race, ethnicity, or social class.

Dr. Jeste explains the importance of neuroplasticity and how we can increase the personality trait of wisdom, how psychiatry needs to focus more on promoting and boosting Mental Health instead of treating and dealing with mental illness only, and the negative effects of ageism on the elderly and the rest of society.

He also explains what we can do to get wiser and more resilient with healthy and successful aging, how it is necessary to learn from experience and mistakes and to accept uncertainty and diversity of perspectives, and how Intermittent Fasting alongside healthy and active lifestyles can help with better health and promote longevity. We also touch upon the fact that practically anyone can have access to wisdom, can grow with empathy and compassion, and hence, attain better Mental Health provided they are open and willing to change.

Michaela also underscores the importance of tapping into our inner truth and self as well as spirituality, to understand the what and why in our lives and to remind ourselves that criticism and compliments are on the same spectrum and they have the ability to take our power away. Finally, she explains that she enjoys therapy for helping others, podcasting for learning and expanding minds, and that she uses writing as her own form of therapy by processing and sharing her insights with the world.

In our interview, she explains her fascinating 8-step methodology that would not only improve overall leadership and lead to more productivity but would also ensure happiness for everyone involved, employers and employees, alike. Tia builds on her extensive knowledge, research, and personal experiences by applying and harnessing the science of happiness alongside modern findings in neuroscience.

The authors discuss how discord in terms of mismatch and repair can be beneficial for parenting as well as for adult relationships. We talk about individual and cultural differences in terms of parenting styles in addition to the insights provided to us via influential studies like the Still Face Experiment. Moreover, we discuss how unmanifested anxieties can drive relationships and the importance of recognizing them in order to foster and develop healthy connections between oneself and others.

We also discuss and highlight the many essential, vital, and life-changing benefits of psychoanalysis not only for dealing with psychological and emotional issues and distress but also as a means of prevention and protection of overall Mental Health.

We talk about the many benefits and a few drawbacks of technology in relation to teaching and learning, and we also discuss the relevance and importance of psychoanalytic thought and practice to better understand oneself for the betterment of the world.

We talk about triggers and warning signs of suicide as well as suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Jane also talks about the stigma surrounding suicide, which especially affects families and survivors that are coping and dealing with suicide loss. We also touch upon resilience and the role of parents, schools, society, and Social Media vis-à-vis Mental Health and how psychoanalysis can lead towards a better, stronger, and more robust understanding of various issues and how it can be used as an effective tool for self-discovery and understanding.

We talk about the effects of the pandemic on day-to-day life, such as wearing masks, using technology, keeping a distance, and the lack of human contact. We also discuss other fascinating topics, such as the use of tattoos and avatars, the pervading influence of advertisement, the changing nature of social perception and acceptance, and a psychoanalytic discussion of popular shows and movies!

Laura explains the necessity of being honest with oneself and the difficulties in identifying and recognizing unhealthy patterns of thinking and feeling. Her tips, experience, and guidance can help us to move forward while converting our suffering into a banner of strength as well as a sign of resilience that would carry over into all our other relationships with friends, colleagues, and loved ones.