Home
Categories
EXPLORE
True Crime
Comedy
Society & Culture
Business
Sports
History
Fiction
About Us
Contact Us
Copyright
© 2024 PodJoint
00:00 / 00:00
Sign in

or

Don't have an account?
Sign up
Forgot password
https://is1-ssl.mzstatic.com/image/thumb/Podcasts211/v4/0a/1a/b4/0a1ab413-2ffb-80b9-6689-2431702f1ff2/mza_10767713152855238301.jpg/600x600bb.jpg
Past Father, Future Child Podcast
Past Father, Future Child
23 episodes
1 hour ago
Welcome to Past Father, Future Child. I'm Denis, sharing reflections, life lessons, and values drawn from my experiences – messages recorded for my daughter someday, and for anyone seeking perspective today. Join me as we explore philosophy, personal growth, ethics, everyday curiosities, and the wisdom gained navigating life's challenges. Let's uncover meaningful insights together.
Show more...
Philosophy
RSS
All content for Past Father, Future Child Podcast is the property of Past Father, Future Child and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Welcome to Past Father, Future Child. I'm Denis, sharing reflections, life lessons, and values drawn from my experiences – messages recorded for my daughter someday, and for anyone seeking perspective today. Join me as we explore philosophy, personal growth, ethics, everyday curiosities, and the wisdom gained navigating life's challenges. Let's uncover meaningful insights together.
Show more...
Philosophy
Episodes (20/23)
Past Father, Future Child Podcast
Who Writes Your "Good" Story?
🤔 Ever wonder why people do things that seem utterly wrong to you? What if they genuinely believe they're the good guy in their own narrative? This video explores how shifting your perspective can unlock immense peace and understanding. Join me as we dive into a fascinating story of a celebrated chef and his intuitive sous-chef, revealing that true "goodness" isn't found in rigid rules, but in a deeper understanding. We'll explore the profound insight from an actor famous for playing villains: they never act like a bad guy because their character genuinely believes they are the hero. This powerful idea extends far beyond the screen and into our daily lives. If you are new here, I'm Denis and I like to explore everyday things with a curious mind. This concept truly resonates, showing us how often our personal stories collide without us even realizing it. Think of a wild river: one person sees chaos and builds a dam, believing they're a hero bringing order. Another sees life and protects its flow, viewing the dam-builder as a villain. Both believe they're doing 'good.' This applies everywhere – from the overbearing parent to the micromanaging boss, or even the driver who cuts you off. In their story, they are the hero. This isn't about excusing hurtful actions, but about freeing yourself. Instead of meeting frustration with anger, what if you approached it with curiosity? Asking, "In what story is this person the hero?" can liberate you from personal resentment, transforming conflict into a simple difference of perspective. You'll gain clarity and navigate situations with wisdom, not just reaction. ✨ Key Takeaways: 1. **Everyone is the Hero of Their Own Story:** Most people genuinely believe they are doing the 'right thing' from their perspective. 2. **Shift from Judgment to Curiosity:** Instead of anger, ask what 'good' others might be serving in their own narrative. 3. **Find Peace Through Understanding:** This shift dissolves resentment, offering clarity and emotional freedom in challenging interactions. If this perspective resonates with you, give the video a thumbs up and drop a comment below: What's a situation where you realized someone else was the 'hero' of their own story? 👉 Subscribe for more playful curiosity and insights into the human experience! #PerspectiveShift #PersonalGrowth #LifeLessons #Mindfulness #EmotionalIntelligence
Show more...
1 hour ago
9 minutes 28 seconds

Past Father, Future Child Podcast
Breaking The Wild Ride Of Panic
🤯 Are you caught in the relentless cycle of panic? Discover why fighting your panic attacks only makes them worse, and learn a gentle, counter-intuitive way to step off the terrifying ride for good. In this video, we dive deep into the mechanics of panic, revealing the hidden feedback loop that gives it power. You'll understand: • Why traditional advice to 'control' panic is often ineffective • The "Carousel of Panic" metaphor that illustrates how anxiety escalates • How your own body's signals amplify the panic response • A surprisingly simple, yet powerful technique to 'slow down the music' of panic • The role of mindful breathing in disarming the feedback loop • How to shift your focus from fighting your thoughts to changing your physical rhythm If you've ever felt trapped by overwhelming anxiety, this perspective shift will empower you with a new way to approach these challenging moments. Stop wrestling with the wild horses, and learn how to change the song instead. If this video offered you a fresh perspective, please give it a thumbs up, subscribe for more insights into the human experience, and share your thoughts in the comments below. What's one gentle way you've found to navigate overwhelming feelings? #PanicAttacks #AnxietyRelief #MentalHealth #OvercomingPanic #BreathingExercises #SelfHelp #Mindfulness #AlanWatts
Show more...
23 hours ago
8 minutes 35 seconds

Past Father, Future Child Podcast
The Hidden Cost Of Playing It Safe
Do you ever feel like you're just going through the motions, even when you're doing everything 'right'? This video explores the surprising paradox of control: the more perfectly we manage our lives, the less 'life' we sometimes feel we have. You're working hard to build a good, stable life, making all the sensible choices and avoiding risks. But what if this very path is making you feel like a background character in your own story? In this deep dive, we use the metaphor of a wild river and a calm reservoir to reveal the hidden cost of constantly playing it safe. We often act like engineers, building a 'dam' of secure choices to create a calm, predictable 'reservoir' of stability. It feels responsible, safe. Yet, have you ever stood by that placid lake and felt an unsettling stillness? That quiet emptiness is the hidden cost of playing it safe. We forget that our true nature, like a wild river, is movement, flow, and exploration. Its character is carved by navigating rocks, taking unexpected turns, and running wild. Just like me, exploring everyday things with a curious mind, you might recognize this feeling of being a contained lake when deep down you yearn to be a flowing river. The realization? Your unique character isn't a static destination; it's the winding path your river carves through the world. It’s shaped by resilience developed from encountering obstacles, not by avoiding them. The solution isn't to destroy the stability you've built, but to learn how to 'open a small gate.' Join me as we discover how to listen for your inner 'current' and make small, intentional choices – not based purely on efficiency or safety – to let your natural flow return. It could be a new hobby, a different route home, or saying 'yes' to something that feels a little uncomfortable. These small releases are how you start carving your own authentic path, one ripple at a time. 🔑 Key Takeaways: 1. The paradox of safety: Building a perfectly secure life can lead to a feeling of deep, unsettling stillness. 2. Your true character is forged by navigating life's 'currents' and 'obstacles,' not by avoiding them. 3. Reclaim your authentic self by 'opening a small gate' and making intentional choices that allow your natural flow to emerge. If this resonated with you, hit the like button and share your thoughts in the comments! Have you ever felt this 'unsettling stillness' in your own life? And if you want more insights on navigating life's currents with playful curiosity, make sure to subscribe to Past Father, Future Child. Until next time, stay curious. #PersonalGrowth #LifeLessons #SelfDiscovery #AuthenticLiving #EmbraceChange
Show more...
1 week ago
9 minutes 3 seconds

Past Father, Future Child Podcast
The Beautiful Nonsense of Taking Offense
Ever felt a barbed comment sting and refuse to let go? What if you could see that sting, not as a personal attack, but as a beautiful piece of nonsense, revealing more about the world around you than yourself? In this video, we explore a unique perspective on handling criticism, inspired by the wisdom of nature. Join Denis from Past Father, Future Child as we dive into why taking offense might be one of the most sublime contradictions of the human experience. You'll discover that often, the harsh words directed at you are merely a reflection of the speaker's own inner turmoil, a
Show more...
2 weeks ago
6 minutes 46 seconds

Past Father, Future Child Podcast
3 Mindset Shifts to Find Your Way When You Feel Overwhelmed
🌟 Feeling stuck in life's mundane cycle? Discover how to find joy and meaning when everything seems pointless. 🌈 🔍 Uncover the secrets to overcoming life's challenges and reigniting your passion for living! 👉 Check out our other videos for more wisdom on navigating life's ups and downs! 💬 Share your own experiences in the comments below. How do you find joy in difficult times? #FindingJoy #OvercomingChallenges #MeaningfulLife #PersonalGrowth In this heartfelt exploration, we dive into the struggle of feeling trapped in life's endless cycle of tasks and unfulfilled dreams. Drawing inspiration from nature and philosophy, we uncover powerful strategies to rediscover joy and purpose. Learn how to transform your perspective, embrace small pleasures, and persist through life's challenges. Whether you're facing setbacks or seeking a fresh outlook, this video offers wisdom and practical advice to help you navigate life's darkest moments and emerge stronger on the other side. Past Father, Future Child is a channel dedicated to exploring life's complexities with playful curiosity and an open mind. Join us as we uncover insights to help navigate challenges, find meaning, and cultivate resilience in our daily lives. Whether you're a parent, a young adult, or someone seeking personal growth, our videos offer a unique blend of wisdom, nature-inspired metaphors, and practical advice to support your journey through life's ups and downs.
Show more...
2 weeks ago
8 minutes 21 seconds

Past Father, Future Child Podcast
Break the Insanity Cycle: Find Unexpected Solutions
Are you stuck in a repetitive cycle, feeling like nothing is changing? Break free with this video! Discover practical strategies to find unexpected solutions and stop the "insanity" of doing the same thing over and over. Learn how to approach challenges with an open mind, embrace failure, and develop the wisdom to adapt your approach. This video will show you how to break out of stuck patterns in any area of your life - from personal goals to relationships and career. Get ready to unlock new possibilities! Check out more helpful content on my channel "Past Father, Future Child" where I share insights to guide you through life's challenges with playful curiosity and an open mind. Leave a comment below and let me know what you struggle with - I'd love to hear your thoughts! And be sure to grab the free video description template to help your content rank higher. #personaldevelopment #problemsolving #mental-loops
Show more...
2 weeks ago
6 minutes 13 seconds

Past Father, Future Child Podcast
Why Pain Is Life's Best Teacher
Ever wondered why we constantly try to eliminate pain, only to find ourselves stuck in the same old patterns? What if the discomfort you're running from is actually life's most profound teacher? In this curious exploration, I dive into a perspective that challenges our ingrained instinct to numb discomfort. From the familiar burn of heartburn to the ache of a broken heart, we often reach for quick fixes, silencing the signal but missing the crucial message. I share how physical pain, like the strain in the gym, isn't just an obstacle but a catalyst for growth. And emotional pain? It’s a powerful guide to self-awareness, if we only dare to listen. Drawing parallels to a winding river, I argue that life isn't meant to be a smooth, placid lake. It’s supposed to bend, turn, and navigate obstacles. Pain is simply the river carving its beautiful path. Our obsession with avoiding these bends, with damming the river, leads not to peace, but to stagnation and a profound disconnection from our inner guidance. What a beautiful piece of nonsense, isn't it? We create permanent stuckness in pursuit of a better place. Through personal reflections, I reveal how choosing to listen to pain – to get curious about its message – transforms it from an enemy into a wise guide, helping us navigate life's currents with greater wisdom and vibrancy. 🔑 Key Takeaways: • Pain isn't the problem; it's a messenger guiding you toward growth and change. • Numbing discomfort prevents true self-awareness and keeps you stuck in repetitive patterns. • Embrace life's 'bends' and 'obstacles' as opportunities for profound learning and deepening your life's journey. If this perspective resonates with you, give this video a like and share your thoughts in the comments below: What's a painful experience that ultimately taught you a valuable lesson? 👉 Subscribe to Past Father, Future Child for more curious explorations into life's profound lessons. #LifeLessons #PersonalGrowth #Philosophy #PainIsATeacher #SelfAwareness
Show more...
2 weeks ago
8 minutes 56 seconds

Past Father, Future Child Podcast
Are You Truly Living Half Your Day?
What if nearly half your day isn't a conscious choice? Discover the surprising truth about autopilot living and how to take back control. Ever feel like you're just going through the motions? In this video, we dive deep into the fascinating reality that almost 45% of our daily actions aren't conscious decisions, but rather deeply ingrained habits. From your morning commute to unconscious scrolls, these automatic scripts can be a powerful evolutionary advantage, freeing up mental energy for complex tasks. However, this same efficiency can also be a trap, leading us to mindlessness and disconnecting us from the consequences of our actions. We explore how these well-worn paths in our minds can keep us stuck in patterns that no longer serve us, making an hour vanish in a scroll or reaching for a snack without true hunger. Imagine your life as a vast landscape, with every action carving a tiny trickle that eventually becomes a deep, powerful river—your habit. We often try to 'dam' these raging currents with sheer willpower, only to find the flow too strong, too ingrained. Fighting the river is exhausting and rarely works. If you are new here, I'm Denis and I like to explore everyday things with a curious mind. And this idea, that we're living almost half our lives guided by these invisible currents, is one of those things worth getting curious about. The true secret to lasting habit change isn't to fight the river, but to *redirect* it. By understanding the 'cue' (trigger) and 'reward' (destination) of your habit, you can gently guide the flow into a new, healthier channel, transforming the routine while keeping the essential source and destination. Learn how to apply this 'golden rule' to areas where you might be struggling, like swapping a stress-induced cigarette for a mindful walk, achieving the same calming reward through a different, nourishing path. It's time to observe the currents that guide your day without judgment and patiently offer them a new direction. Discover how to transform your automatic actions into intentional living. 🔑 Key Takeaways: • Nearly 45% of your daily actions are driven by unconscious habits, not conscious choices. • Relying solely on willpower to break deeply ingrained habits is largely ineffective. • The most powerful way to change a habit is to redirect its routine, keeping the same cue and delivering a similar reward. ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - Are You Truly Living Half Your Day? 1:05 - The Power (and Trap) of Habit 2:30 - Why Willpower Fails: The River Metaphor 4:10 - Redirecting the Current: The Golden Rule of Habit Change 5:50 - Practical Example: Stress to Calm 7:00 - Your Invitation to Observe & Redirect If this perspective resonated with you, give this video a thumbs up! What habit are you curious about redirecting in your own life? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Don't forget to subscribe for more insights into living a more conscious and curious life! #HabitChange #PersonalGrowth #Mindfulness #SelfImprovement #PastFatherFutureChild
Show more...
4 weeks ago
7 minutes 46 seconds

Past Father, Future Child Podcast
The Simple Ratio That Governs Your Purpose
Ever feel like life's just dragging you along, a pinball bouncing from one thing to the next? What if the key to finding your purpose isn't about searching, but about a powerful, simple ratio you're already holding in your hands? In this video, I dive into that all-too-familiar feeling of being adrift, like a small boat on a vast river, pushed by currents you didn't create. We often talk about 'finding' purpose as if it's a hidden treasure, but what if we have it all backward? At Past Father, Future Child, I explore how purpose isn't something you stumble upon, but something you actively *build* through your choices. Drawing on fascinating psychological insights, I uncover why true purpose stems not from external achievements, but from an inner sense of *choice*, which then leads to competence and connection. We'll use the vivid metaphor of a stagnant swamp versus a flowing river to illustrate how deliberately making choices—even small, seemingly insignificant ones—begins to create the vital current in your life. Here's the mind-bending twist: when life barrages you with unexpected challenges, your instinct might be to retreat. Yet, our sense of control isn't determined by the total number of problems, but by the *ratio* of challenges we choose versus those forced upon us. This means the paradoxical solution to feeling overwhelmed isn't to shrink, but to *add* a challenge that is entirely your own. I share personal reflections, like training for a marathon, to show how actively choosing my 'problems' transformed how I navigated life's passive frustrations, making them feel much smaller and more manageable. This isn't about adding burden; it's about taking back the paddle. Each tiny, deliberate choice shifts that crucial ratio in your brain, declaring that you are the navigator, not just a passenger. It's an absurd, yet profoundly powerful way to craft your own sense of purpose, one choice at a time. 🔑 Key Takeaways: • Purpose isn't a hidden destination; it's actively built through your conscious choices. • Your feeling of control and purpose is shaped by the *ratio* of challenges you choose versus those forced upon you. • When overwhelmed, the counterintuitive solution is to *add* a small, self-chosen challenge to shift this ratio and regain your sense of direction. If this idea of taking back your paddle resonates with you, give this video a like and share your thoughts in the comments below: What's one small, active choice you can make today to start building your purpose? Don't forget to subscribe to Past Father, Future Child for more curious explorations into life's big questions! #PurposeInLife #PersonalGrowth #OverwhelmSolutions #LifeChoices #SelfDirection #MindsetShift #PhilosophyForLife #MeaningfulLife #Motivation
Show more...
1 month ago
10 minutes 8 seconds

Past Father, Future Child Podcast
How Fear Cuts Through The Haze
What if the most unexpected path to mental clarity isn't peace, but primal fear? Discover how leaning into fear can silence the constant hum of anxiety and regret, bringing you powerfully into the present moment. In a world buzzing with future worries and past regrets, our minds are constantly weaving narratives that can feel overwhelming. I always thought my draw to horror was about the thrill, but a conversation with friends revealed a profound truth: while anxiety lives in the future and depression in the past, pure, primal fear exists entirely in the *now*. This video explores how that intense, all-consuming presentness of fear can cut through the mental haze, offering a strange kind of relief and forced clarity. It's a temporary escape from the incessant mental chatter, a surprising gateway to a profound silence. Join me as we ponder this wonderfully strange idea: could we be seeking out fear not just for the adrenaline, but for the unexpected stillness it leaves in its wake? Key Takeaways: • Fear, unlike anxiety or depression, is an intensely present emotion, offering a temporary escape from past regrets and future worries. • Engaging with moments of primal fear can bring a surprising clarity and silence to an overactive mind. • Our deeper motivation for seeking out fear might be for the profound stillness and present-moment awareness it provides, rather than just the thrill. If this exploration of fear and presence resonated with you, hit the like button and subscribe for more curious dives into life's unexpected corners. What's your take? Share your thoughts in the comments below! #FearPhilosophy #PresentMoment #Mindfulness #AnxietyRelief #PersonalGrowth #PastFatherFutureChild
Show more...
1 month ago
3 minutes 25 seconds

Past Father, Future Child Podcast
Losing Yourself to Find the Group
🌀 Ever felt the subtle pull to pick a side, to wear a uniform that might not quite fit? This video dives into how we get sorted into groups from an early age, and the profound, sometimes absurd, cost of losing ourselves in the process. From the playground to the digital world, we're constantly encouraged to categorize ourselves and others into 'us' and 'them'. But is this division real, or a beautifully strange illusion? In this reflection, Denis explores how media's focus on extreme voices creates a distorted picture of opposing sides, making us believe everyone on 'the other team' is an outlier. Using the concept of the bell curve, we'll uncover how the vast majority of people, even within defined groups, share common ground, yet our attention is always drawn to the loudest, most polarizing voices. This isn't just a societal observation; it’s a profound 'trick' that impacts our daily lives and inner peace. What a wonderfully strange idea. Discover the hidden costs: strained relationships where genuine connection is replaced by cautious navigation, and the exhaustion of feeling pressured to defend positions you don't fully embrace. It's a 'beautiful piece of nonsense,' Denis argues, that in seeking belonging, we often imprison ourselves, defining our identity by what we are against. Drawing on powerful nature metaphors, this video invites you to look beyond the turbulent surface of societal noise—the 'hailing chunks of ice' on a lake—and remember the deep, quiet stillness underneath, where our shared human desires reside. We'll explore how true belonging isn't about joining the 'right' group, but about having the courage to stand in the middle, recognizing the individual in every 'fellow traveler', and connecting to the 'entire ocean' of humanity. Isn't that just wild? 💡 KEY TAKEAWAYS: • The Illusion of Extremes: Understand how media and social platforms amplify fringe voices, creating a false sense of widespread division and making 'the other side' seem radical. • The Cost of Conformity: Realize how the pressure to belong to a group can silently erode your authentic self, leading to mental exhaustion and superficial relationships. • Finding True Connection: Discover that genuine belonging emerges not from choosing a team, but from recognizing our shared humanity and connecting with individuals across all perceived 'sides'. If this reflection on belonging and individuality resonated with you, hit the like button and subscribe for more curious explorations. Share your thoughts in the comments below: What's one belief you hold that might not fit neatly into a single 'side'? #Groupthink #Individuality #UsVsThem #SocialDivision #PhilosophyOfLife #PersonalGrowth #PastFatherFutureChild #DenisReflect
Show more...
1 month ago
10 minutes 4 seconds

Past Father, Future Child Podcast
This Unfolding Moment Is The Whole Point
Do you ever feel like you're constantly trying to 'figure life out' or falling behind everyone else? What if the secret isn't to reach a destination, but to embrace the beautiful, unpredictable journey itself? In this video, we dive deep into the silent pressure we all feel – comparing our unique paths to others, constantly striving to 'catch up.' We often treat life like a race on a fixed track, believing there’s a single 'right' way to go from point A to success. But what if we shifted our perspective? Imagine your life as a flowing river, each one unique. Some meandering, some rushing, but all constantly moving. Your river might navigate dense forests of old habits or encounter unmoving rocks of challenges. Yet, a river doesn't fight; it simply yields, flows around, and in its persistence, carves its own way forward. Join Denis as he explores this liberating idea, inviting us to see that the point of the river isn't just to reach the ocean, but to *be* the river – experiencing every turn, every still pool, every powerful current. This isn't about ignoring challenges, but about understanding that every moment, every landscape your river flows through, is part of its perfect, unfolding story. Key Takeaways: • Life is a unique, unfolding journey, not a fixed race to a destination. • Embrace challenges by yielding and flowing around them, just like a river. • The present moment, in all its forms, *is* the whole point of your experience. ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS: 0:00 - The pressure to 'figure life out' 0:48 - The comparison trap and feeling behind 2:03 - Why chasing others' paths leaves you lost 2:55 - A new perspective: Life as a river 4:05 - How a river handles obstacles 5:00 - The big realization: The point is to *be* the river 6:20 - Embracing your unique flow 7:05 - Stop trying to straighten your path. Just flow. If this perspective resonates with you, give this video a thumbs up and share your thoughts in the comments below! Have you ever felt like you were trying to force your path? How do you practice 'just flowing'? Don't forget to subscribe to Past Father, Future Child for more curious explorations into life's big questions! #LifeJourney #PersonalGrowth #EmbraceTheFlow #Mindfulness #AlanWattsInspired
Show more...
1 month ago
7 minutes 52 seconds

Past Father, Future Child Podcast
The Power of Assuming Good Intentions
Beyond binary: The Spectrum of Understanding When Navigating Sensitive Subjects I want to talk about opinions and politics. That there is a cultural momentum to things that tend to push from side only to be met by a wall and then swing back, until it doesn't become an issue. I want to talk about peoples spectrum of acceptance. From 0 to 100, people will have. a range of acceptance, like 40-60. And even if it's different than yours, people will most likely overlap on most. Everyone in the world, with very few exceptions, want to be kinder to their family, friends, neighbours, community. The idea of how ot get there might be different, but it's good to remind ourselves that most people are coming from a good place. They want to be happier, they want the ones they hold dear to be happier, and that should be the common ground to build something better over what makes us all different.
Show more...
1 month ago
8 minutes 14 seconds

Past Father, Future Child Podcast
Resist the Pressure: Finding Value Beyond Luxury
Are you desperately trying to show your value, only to feel more empty? Discover where real worth truly lies, and why it costs less than you think. We're constantly bombarded by images of gleaming luxury items – watches, handbags, sunglasses – promising a better, more confident you. There's a powerful, seductive whisper telling us these "shiny things" will broadcast our worth to the world. But deep down, we know the price tag often feels absurd, far beyond their actual cost. This creates a strange conflict: we chase these symbols of status, yet often find ourselves left with a lingering emptiness once the thrill of the purchase fades. What if your life, your sense of self, is like a flowing river – dynamic, ever-changing, gathering richness from countless experiences? Often, we build "dams" in our river, using luxury items or status symbols to try and capture our worth in one static place. We tell ourselves, 'This expensive thing proves I have arrived.' But a dammed river becomes stagnant, losing its essence, its movement, its very life. If you are new here, I'm Denis and I like to explore everyday things with a curious mind. And one of the things that makes me most curious is this feeling of being ripped off – not just financially, but from a more authentic, flowing experience of life. The great realization is that true value was never in the dam, but always in the flow. Our real worth isn't something bought and displayed; it's something deeply experienced. It's the currents that shape us: late-night conversations, shared laughter, overcoming challenges that seemed impossible. These unique experiences are the water of our river – they can't be bought or faked. The secret to a richer life isn't building a bigger dam, but learning to let your river flow freely. This brings us to a crucial question: Where in your life are you trying to build a dam when you could be the river? Are you choosing static objects over flowing experiences? It's a simple mindset shift: instead of asking 'What can I own to show my worth?', ask 'What can I experience to enrich my life?' Remember, the more things you own, the more they own you. True freedom isn't found in a crowded reservoir of possessions, but in the unstoppable, ever-changing journey of your river. Invest in the flow – nurture relationships, spend quality time with those who make you feel alive, and seek genuine connection. Stop trying to prove your value. Just live it. Key Takeaways: • Material possessions often create an illusion of worth, leading to an inner emptiness. • Your life's true value is like a flowing river of experiences, not a stagnant dam of possessions. • Embrace genuine connections and meaningful experiences to live a richer, more authentic life. If this resonated with you, hit the like button, subscribe for more curious explorations, and tell me in the comments: What's one 'flowing experience' that has truly enriched your life? #PersonalGrowth #LifeLessons #Minimalism #TrueValue #PhilosophyOfLife
Show more...
1 month ago
7 minutes 59 seconds

Past Father, Future Child Podcast
Take Back Your Power Over Emotions
Emotions hit like sudden storms – anger, jealousy, frustration – leaving us feeling overwhelmed and out of control. But what if you aren't the storm, but the vast, unchanging sky it moves through? In this video, we challenge the conventional idea of "mastering" or "conquering" our emotions. Instead, join Denis as he explores a transformative perspective, showing you how to reframe your relationship with these powerful feelings. Discover the crucial difference between emotions (like the weather) and thoughts (like the forecast), and learn to observe your inner landscape with playful curiosity, rather than fighting against it. Drawing on nature metaphors, we'll dive into practical ways to navigate intense emotions. Imagine yourself as a sailor on the ocean of existence, learning to adjust your sails rather than trying to command the wind. This video provides a simple yet profound framework to help you acknowledge feelings without judgment, let go of the limiting stories your mind creates, and move forward with intention and peace. ✨ Key Takeaways: • Understand emotions as natural phenomena, like weather, that pass through you, rather than problems to be controlled. • Learn to separate the raw emotion from the narratives and stories your mind spins about it. • Discover the C.A.L.M. framework (Catch your breath, Acknowledge the feeling, Let go of the story, Move forward) to navigate any emotional tempest. What unhealthy coping mechanisms have you used to deal with difficult emotions? Let me know in the comments below! If this perspective resonated with you, give the video a thumbs up and subscribe for more curious explorations into life's big questions and personal growth. #Emotions #EmotionalIntelligence #PersonalGrowth #Mindfulness #PastFatherFutureChild
Show more...
1 month ago
9 minutes 18 seconds

Past Father, Future Child Podcast
Finding Joy When Life Feels Meaningless
🚀 Ever feel like you're Sisyphus, endlessly pushing the boulder of mundane tasks uphill? Discover how to find pockets of joy and meaning when life feels overwhelming and your grand ambitions seem to fall flat. In this episode, Denis invites us on a curious exploration of those moments when life feels like an endless cycle of mundane tasks and unfulfilled dreams. It’s easy to get lost in the darkness, feeling like you’re swimming upstream against a raging river, constantly swept back to where you started. If you are new here, I'm Denis and I like to explore everyday things with a curious mind. I'm making these videos to share them with my daughter for when she might face similar challenges in the future. Denis opens up about his own experiences, from grand ambitions of being the 'next Steve Jobs' to facing a series of project failures that felt like his dreams were drying up like a tiny puddle. But the good news is, there's always a path forward. Join Denis as he reveals his three practical strategies to navigate these feelings of meaninglessness: • **Turn it into a Numbers Game**: Discover why persistence and flexibility are key, much like a river carving its way through rock. It’s all about probability – you can't win if you don't play! • **Learn to Spread Out**: Don't stay stagnant! Find inspiration in simple, everyday pleasures. Denis shares how actively seeking out small moments of joy – from a morning coffee to a child’s smile – can illuminate even the darkest days, much like a river reflecting the colors of the sky. • **Reframe Your Perspective**: Learn to shift your focus from tedious tasks to the bigger picture. Understand how even the smallest actions, like a drop of water creating ripples, can have a profound impact and bring purpose to the ordinary. This isn't about ignoring challenges, but about transforming how you approach them. Remember, the feeling will come and go, and when you forget, simply begin again, like a plant growing new leaves in the spring or a hidden spring feeding a river. Stay curious. 💡 Key Takeaways: 1. Embrace failure as part of a 'numbers game' to cultivate persistence and eventual success. 2. Actively seek and appreciate simple, everyday joys to brighten even the darkest days. 3. Reframe mundane tasks by focusing on their larger purpose to find meaning in the ordinary. If this resonated with you, give the video a thumbs up and share your thoughts in the comments below! How do you find joy when life feels meaningless? 🔗 No links mentioned in this video, but explore our channel for more insights! 👉 Subscribe to Past Father, Future Child for more reflections on personal growth, philosophy, and finding perspective in everyday life! #FindingJoy #MeaningInLife #PersonalGrowth #PhilosophyForLife #OvercomingChallenges
Show more...
1 month ago
8 minutes 19 seconds

Past Father, Future Child Podcast
The Great Debate: My thoughts on Free Will.
Do you really choose your path, or is it all an elaborate illusion? 🤔 Join me as we tumble down the rabbit hole of free will and discover how understanding its limits can actually be incredibly liberating. If you are new here, I'm Denis and I like to explore everyday things with a curious mind, sharing perspectives that I hope will be useful for my daughter someday, and for anyone seeking insight today. In this thought-provoking video, we challenge our deepest assumptions about choice. Forget dusty textbooks; we're using a simple thought experiment – an infinite expanse of doors – to explore the true extent of our free will. We start by examining how universal laws like physics and the unyielding march of time dramatically shrink our possibilities. Then, we zoom in on the profound impact of factors entirely beyond our control, such as our birthplace, family, upbringing, and even our physical appearance and the food we eat, revealing how they subtly pre-determine our choices and reactions. We also dive into compelling scientific examples, from the tragic case of Charles Whitman and his brain tumor that affected his behavior, to Benjamin Libet's groundbreaking experiment suggesting our brains initiate actions before we're consciously aware. As an engineer, I consider the brain as a complex equation of genes, experiences, and environment. If our decisions are the output of such an intricate system, how much room is left for what we call 'free will'? While this perspective can initially feel unsettling, it offers a profound liberation. Imagine releasing the heavy burden of total responsibility, understanding that so much of what shapes you is beyond your control. This isn't about surrendering to determinism, but about fostering deep empathy, patience, and understanding—for yourself and for everyone around you. It's a pathway to judging less and connecting more deeply, ultimately creating a more compassionate world. Join me in this fascinating journey as we redefine what "freedom" truly means within the framework of our existence. Key Takeaways: • Our perception of absolute free will may be an illusion, as countless factors from universal laws to personal experiences shape our choices. • Understanding the limitations of free will can be incredibly liberating, reducing the burden of self-blame and fostering self-compassion. • Embracing this perspective enhances empathy and understanding towards others, allowing us to judge less and connect more. If this exploration sparked your curiosity, hit the like button, subscribe for more philosophical adventures, and share your thoughts in the comments below: What's your biggest takeaway from this 'great debate'? 🔗 Links mentioned: None this time, but stay tuned for more resources in future videos! #FreeWill #Philosophy #PersonalGrowth #Empathy #LifeLessons
Show more...
1 month ago
20 minutes 59 seconds

Past Father, Future Child Podcast
Panic Attack? This Too Shall Pass
Panic attacks. They suck. Here are some tips that have helped me. - I tell myself they will pass. It's easy to think that it's forever and there is no light in sight, but they pass. I tell myself this repeatably. - Cold exposure: I take a cold shower, it sucks as well but a bit less than a panic attack. It feels like it flushes all other emotions out of my body to a survival mode and my mind can think of only one thing, getting out of the cold. - Talk it through with a friend: I call someone, a friend, parent, family member and I just say "I'm not doing good right now, can you listen for a minute" and I talk through it. And finally, I go see a specialist, they have tools and tricks to get you out of that state, it's a lot easier to not do it alone. And I also go back to my basics: I do whatever is necessary to get better sleep, I do some exercise (a walk in nature, a workout, whatever), and I socialize. Sozializing is like building your mental immune system, it gets oyu out of your head.
Show more...
1 month ago
15 minutes 53 seconds

Past Father, Future Child Podcast
Why We Carry So Much Stuff (It's Really About Fear)
"How having things is a cover for fear". Buying and having stuff is just fear hidden. Fear that not having it you will not be enough. Fear that you will be bored without it, that your own mind is not enough. Fear that you are unprepared. Dive into the complex relationship between self-worth and material possessions. This video is an exploration on the topic.
Show more...
1 month ago
7 minutes 14 seconds

Past Father, Future Child Podcast
Truth in Admitting Ignorance
We often think true power lies in knowing everything. But what if the greatest strength comes from admitting what you *don't* know? Today, let's explore the profound wisdom and surprising power found in embracing our own ignorance. In a world that often rewards certainty, it's easy to fall into the trap of believing we must have an answer for everything. I used to observe people who spoke with absolute conviction, only to find their pronouncements often missed the mark or were rigid to any new perspective. This led me to a curious realization: true wisdom isn't about declaring absolute truth, but about the humility to acknowledge the vastness of what we don't yet understand. If you are new here, I'm Denis and I like to explore everyday things with a curious mind. I'm creating these videos for my daughter, hoping they'll be useful to her someday, and perhaps to others as well. Many of us fear admitting 'I don't know,' seeing it as a sign of weakness. Yet, as Socrates famously taught, 'The only thing I know is that I know nothing.' This isn't defeat; it's the profound starting point of all true understanding. Our minds, when closed off by the pressure to be constantly right, become like a rigid block of ice—immovable and resistant to change. But when we embrace intellectual humility, we become a flowing river: adaptable, constantly moving, and carving new paths through any landscape life presents. This openness isn't just a personal virtue; it's the engine of progress in fields like science, where theories are constantly refined by new evidence. It allows us to gather richer information, make better decisions, and build deeper, more trusting relationships where every perspective is valued. Join me as we uncover how this seemingly counter-intuitive idea—that strength lies in admitting what you don't know—can lead to a richer, more authentic life filled with continuous learning and genuine connection. Key Takeaways: • Embrace the power of saying "I don't know" – it's a sign of profound strength, not weakness. • Cultivate an open mind: never speak in absolutes and be willing to challenge your own beliefs. • Foster genuine curiosity in others and the world around you to deepen understanding and relationships. What are your thoughts on intellectual humility? Have you ever experienced a moment where admitting you didn't know something led to a surprising positive outcome? Share your stories in the comments below! If this reflection resonated with you, give the video a thumbs up and subscribe to Past Father, Future Child for more explorations into life’s curious corners. Until next time, stay curious. #IntellectualHumility #PersonalGrowth #Philosophy #Wisdom #Curiosity
Show more...
1 month ago
9 minutes 43 seconds

Past Father, Future Child Podcast
Welcome to Past Father, Future Child. I'm Denis, sharing reflections, life lessons, and values drawn from my experiences – messages recorded for my daughter someday, and for anyone seeking perspective today. Join me as we explore philosophy, personal growth, ethics, everyday curiosities, and the wisdom gained navigating life's challenges. Let's uncover meaningful insights together.