In this interview, I’m joined by Dr James Glattfelder. James is a physicist, complexity scientist, and peer-reviewed philosopher. His latest book: The Sapient Cosmos synthesises the latest developments in consciousness studies, physics, and information theory to tackle some of life’s biggest questions. Expect to learn: — Why consciousness might be the foundation of reality, not just a product of the brain — The rational case for idealism — How psychedelics may have shaped human cultures for milennia — James’ insights on the purpose of life And more. You can learn more about James’ work and get a copy of the book at: https://jth.ch --- Dr James Glattfelder is a Swiss author, researcher, and educator exploring the intersection of consciousness, information, and complex systems. With a Ph.D. in complex systems from ETH Zurich and an M.Sc. in theoretical high-energy particle physics, his career spans over two decades of quantitative research, including 12 years at Olsen Ltd. He has held senior roles in digital finance, co-founding ECUREX and contributing to fintech ventures like Lykke and Oyoba. As the author of Information—Consciousness—Reality and The Sapient Cosmos, he brings scientific rigour to philosophical inquiry. James currently serves as Faculty Lecturer at MQ Learning Academy and Lead Quantitative Researcher at Lykke. He is also an indie author and writes for Collective Ink’s Essentia imprint, continuing to examine the nature of consciousness through a scientific lens. --- Interview Link: — Dr Glattfelder’s book and website: https://jth.ch

Dr. David Spiegel is an author, psychiatrist and professor at Stanford University, and one of the world’s leading experts into the clinical applications of hypnosis. He has published thirteen books, over 400 scientific articles, and 170 chapters on hypnosis, stress physiology, trauma, and psychotherapy. He is also the creator of REVERI, an innovative guided self hypnosis app which has been clinically proven to reduce stress, improve sleep, and enhance focus. In this lively and wide ranging conversation, we explore: — The exciting new science of clinical hypnosis and how it can be applied in the treatment of addiction and trauma — The importance of focusing on valued directions in clinical work and being a kind parent to yourself — Dr Spiegel’s experiences working with Irvin Yalom and what he learned from him — The neural mechanisms that explain why clinical hypnosis works, including dissociation, cognitive flexibility, and absorption — The extent to which we can view hypnosis as a form of “internal exposure therapy”. And more. I used Dr Spiegel’s REVERI app to help with sleep earlier this week and found myself out like a light within a few minutes, so I’d highly recommend giving it a try. You can learn more at https://www.reveri.com. --- Dr. David Spiegel is Willson Professor and Associate Chair of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Director of the Center on Stress and Health, and Medical Director of the Center for Integrative Medicine at Stanford University School of Medicine, where he has been a member of the academic faculty since 1975, and was Chair of the Stanford University Faculty Senate from 2010-2011. He has published thirteen books, over 400 scientific journal articles, and 170 chapters on hypnosis, psychosocial oncology, stress physiology, trauma, and psychotherapy. His research has been supported by the National Institute of Mental Health, the National Cancer Institute, the National Institute on Aging, the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation, the Fetzer Institute, the Dana Foundation for Brain Sciences, and the Nathan S. Cummings Foundation. He was a member of the work groups on the stressor and trauma-related disorders for the DSM-IV and DSM-5 editions of the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders. He is Past President of the American College of Psychiatrists and the Society for Clinical and Experimental Hypnosis, and is a Member of the National Academy of Medicine. In 2018, Dr Spiegel was invited to speak on hypnosis at the World Economic Forum in Davos in 2018. --- 3 Books Dr Spiegel Recommends Every Therapist Should Read: — Dopamine Nation — Dr Anna Lembke - https://amzn.to/3O6NdKe — Trance and Treatment: Clinical Uses of Hypnosis 2nd Edition — Herbert Spiegel and David Spiegel - https://www.appi.org/Products/Psychotherapy/Trance-and-Treatment-Second-Edition — How to Change Your Mind — Michael Pollan - https://amzn.to/3OysDUw

Dr. Peter Fenner’s nondual approach has been transforming psychotherapy and spiritual practice for decades. In this session, he explore why his teachings on nondual awareness have been so effective in areas such as personal growth, mental health, and spiritual realization—and how this radical understanding of consciousness has the potential to profoundly change how we experience life. You’ll learn: — The shift from seeking to “being” dissolves suffering and brings peace and freedom — How to integrate nondual awareness into therapy, coaching, and everyday life — There is nothing fundamentally lacking or broken in ourselves — The natural state of pure awareness that is spacious, contentless, and inherently free And more. You can learn more about Dr Fenner's work at www.peterfenner.com --- Dr Peter Fenner, PhD has a multifaceted practice as a writer, author, spiritual coach, and trainer in teachings of deep Buddhist philosophy. The founder of Timeless Wisdom and the pioneer of a number of programs and courses, Dr Peter Fenner based his research on Asian nondual wisdom. He hosts virtual workshops and spiritual retreats all over the world as a leader in his academic field, with a global following for his work, particularly in the US. Peter is qualified with a PhD in the philosophical psychology of the Madhyamika school of Mahayana Buddhism and has developed a range of courses about nondual awareness. Peter’s main specialty is developing freeform pointing out instructions, using silence and unfindability inquiry to directly reveal the nature of pure awareness itself. Peter does this individually and in groups where people are supported in their own discovery of the state of nonduality or nonreferentiality. By freeform he using whatever arises in a group in the moment it occurs as the material/constructs, to be seen through, or self-dissolve, revealing the pure liberated nature of unconditioned mind itself—the ultimate medicine. Peter’s books include Radiant Mind: Awakening Unconditioned Awareness (Sounds True, 2007), The Ontology of the Middle Way (Kluwer, 1990), Reasoning into Reality (Wisdom Publications, 1994), Essential Wisdom Teachings (with Penny Fenner, Nicolas-Hays, 2001), The Edge of Certainty: Paradoxes on the Buddhist Path (Nicolas-Hays, 2002), Sacred Mirror: Nondual Wisdom and Psychotherapy (Editor, Omega Books, 2003). --- Interview Links: - Dr Fenner’s website: https://www.peterfenner.com/ - Dr Fenner’s books: https://amzn.to/3tfNqkm

Is there just one “you”? We’ve been taught to believe we have a single identity and to feel fear or shame when we can’t control the inner voices that don’t match the ideal of who we think we should be. Yet Dr. Richard Schwartz’s research now challenges this “mono-mind” theory. “All of us are born with many sub-minds―or parts,” says Dr. Schwartz. “These parts are not imaginary or symbolic. They are individuals who exist as an internal family within us―and the key to health and happiness is to honor, understand, and love every part.” Dr. Schwartz’s Internal Family Systems (IFS) model has been transforming psychology for decades. In this session, you’ll explore why IFS has been so effective in areas such as trauma recovery, addiction therapy, and depression treatment―and how this new understanding of consciousness has the potential to radically change our lives. You’ll learn: ― How honoring and communicating with parts changes our approach to mental wellness ― How to transform your ego, inner critic, and self saboteur into powerful allies ― How IFS demonstrates human goodness by revealing that there are no bad parts ― How to discover your wise, compassionate essence of goodness that is the source of healing and harmony You’ll also engage in practical exercises for mapping your parts, accessing the Self, and working with a challenging protector. --- Dr. Richard Schwartz, PhD is the creator of Internal Family Systems, a highly effective, evidence-based therapeutic model that de-pathologizes the multipart personality. His IFS Institute offers training for professionals and the general public. Formerly an associate professor in the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Illinois at Chicago and later at Northwestern University, he is currently on the faculty of Harvard Medical School. He has published five books and is a sought-after presenter. For more, visit ifs-institute.com. Interview Links: - Dr Schwartz’s website: https://ifs-institute.com/ - Dr Schwartz’s books: https://amzn.to/3V9YOtA

Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor is a Harvard-trained neuroscientist, stroke survivor, and bestselling author of My Stroke of Insight and Whole Brain Living. With over 27 million views, her TED Talk is one of the most viewed of all time. In this conversation, we explore: — How a left hemisphere stroke radically shifted Jill’s view of identity — What it means to live from a “whole brain” perspective and Dr. Taylor revolutionary model of the four “characters” we all have within us — Why our sense of self is just one “character” of four and how learning to recognize and integrate these characters can help us make better decisions, improve our relationships, and access deeper states of inner peace. — How the “BRAIN huddle” can transform inner conflict into calm clarity. And more. To explore Dr. Taylor’s work, visit https://drjilltaylor.com or check out her books My Stroke of Insight and Whole Brain Living. — Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor is a Harvard-trained and published neuroscientist. In 1996 she experienced a severe hemorrhage (AVM) in the left hemisphere of her brain causing her to lose the ability to walk, talk, read, write, or recall any of her life. Her memoir, My Stroke of Insight, documenting her experience with stroke and eight-year recovery, spent 63 weeks on the New York Times nonfiction bestseller list and is still routinely the #1 book in the category Stroke in the Amazon marketplace. Dr. Jill is a dynamic teacher and public speaker who loves educating all age groups, academic levels, as well as corporations and not-for-profit organizations about the beauty of our human brain. She focuses on how we can activate the power of our neuroplasticity to not only recover from neurological trauma, but how we can purposely choose to live a more flexible, resilient, and satisfying life. In 2008 Dr. Jill gave the first TED talk that ever went viral on the Internet, which now has well over 27.5 million views. Also in 2008, Dr. Jill was chosen as one of Time magazine’s “100 Most Influential People in the World” and was the premiere guest on Oprah Winfrey’s “Soul Series” webcast. Her new book, Whole Brain Living – the Anatomy of Choice and the Four Characters That Drive Our Life is a #1 release on Amazon in categories ranging from Neuroscience to Nervous System Diseases and Stroke. --- Interview Links: — Dr Taylor’s website: https://drjilltaylor.com — Dr Taylor’s book: https://amzn.to/43EiPA1

Dr. Tony Nader is a medical doctor, neuroscientist, and the global leader of the Transcendental Meditation movement. He holds an MD from the American University of Beirut and a PhD in neuroscience from MIT. In this conversation, we explore Dr. Nader’s provocative claim that consciousness is not a byproduct of the brain—but the ground of all being. Drawing on neuroscience, quantum physics, and thousands of years of contemplative practice, he shares a paradigm that reframes life’s biggest questions—from free will and death to the nature of truth, karma, and the self. Expect to learn: — What Maslow got wrong and the practical value of transcending before striving — Why expanding consciousness is the purpose of life — Dr Nader’s views on the relationship between the brain and consciousness. — What this model says about death, reincarnation, and the expansion of self And more. You can learn more about Dr. Nader’s work at https://drtonynader.com or by exploring his book, Consciousness is All There Is. --- Dr. Tony Nader is a globally recognized leader in the field of consciousness and a renowned neuroscientist with a distinguished academic background. He is the president of Maharishi International University, a medical doctor trained at Harvard University and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (Ph.D. in neuroscience) and a globally recognized expert in the science of Consciousness and human development. Dr Nader’s training includes internal medicine, psychiatry, and neurology, and he is a New York Times bestselling author. His award winning book Consciousness Is All There Is has received the highest praise much like his latest book Super Habits for Success. Dr Nader has had recent discussions with some of the great thinkers, scientists, medical doctors and leaders in the world today. He has been featured by WIRED magazine, BBC, CNN, Gaia Network, and served as keynote for the United Nations, YPO and Stanford university’s “Hacking Consciousness”. He’s the recipient of numerous award's for his outstanding contribution in human development, environment, education, and health. He currently leads the global Transcendental Meditation organization, succeeding Maharishi Mahesh Yogi, and is dedicated to advancing the understanding of consciousness through both scientific and spiritual lenses. --- Interview Links: — Maharishi International University - https://www.miu.edu — Dr Nader's website - https://drtonynader.com — Dr Nader's book - https://amzn.to/45kVWCO

Zack Kass is an AI strategist, futurist, and former Head of Go-to-Market at OpenAI — the company behind ChatGPT. As a leading voice in the responsible integration of artificial intelligence, Zack has advised Fortune 500 companies, governments, and nonprofits on how to navigate technological change with both foresight and humanity. In this wide-ranging discussion, Zack shares what most people get wrong about AI, the traits that will define those who thrive in the years ahead, and why designing for what machines can’t do may be the single most important business (and life) strategy of our time. Expect to learn: — Why personal agency and adaptability are now essential skills — What AI can’t do—and why that’s where the opportunity is — How to prepare for a future where work no longer defines identity — The importance of learning how to learn (and how to actually do it) — Why “the future belongs to those who obsess” And more. You can explore Zack’s writing and newsletter at https://www.zackkass.com. --- Zack Kass is one of the world’s foremost authorities on applied AI, transforming the technology's immense power into business strategies and applications that expand human potential. For the last 16 years, Zack has been at the forefront of AI. Most recently, he served as OpenAI's Head of Go-to-Market responsible for building out the sales, solutions, and partnerships teams. Zack played a key role in early efforts at commercializing AI and large language models, channeling OpenAI’s innovative research into tangible business solutions while also serving as a personal adviser to many executives deploying the technology across their companies. Today, Zack’s mission is to help businesses, nonprofits, and governments navigate the rapidly evolving AI environment. His thought leadership has been featured in top publications, such as Fortune, Newsweek, Entrepreneur, and Business Insider. Zack continues to advise Fortune 1000 board rooms, including Coca-Cola, Morgan Stanley, and Samsung. He is also an Executive-in-Residence at the University of Virginia’s McIntire School of Commerce and Chair of Ruder Finn’s AI Advisory Council. --- Interview Link: — Zack’s website - https://www.zackkass.com

The spiritual teaching of nonduality, which stems from the Indian philosophy of advaita, teaches that consciousness is the primary reality, the fundamental essence of the cosmos. On the other hand, the current scientific worldview holds that the physical world is primary, and that consciousness somehow, in ways that we do not yet understand, emerges from it. Both views have their challenges. If consciousness is primary, why do we not see it in all things? Conversely if the physical world is primary, how does consciousness arise from something as insentient matter? Peter Russell proposes that the solution to these problems lies in the recognition that information is fundamental to both realities, and physical reality, as we conceive of it, is but a representation of the external world appearing in the mind. This turns our current worldview inside-out; and into one that both beliefs can inhabit. --- Peter Russell studied theoretical physics, experimental psychology, and computer science at the University of Cambridge. He then went to India, to study meditation and Eastern philosophy, and on his return conducted research on the psychology of meditation. A leading thinker on consciousness and contemporary spirituality, he coined the term "global brain" with his 1980s’ bestseller of the same name in which he predicted the Internet and the impact it would have on humanity. Other books include The Awakening Earth, Waking Up in Time, From Science to God, and his most recent, Letting Go of Nothing. Peter is a fellow of The World Business Academy, The Institute of Noetic Sciences, The Findhorn Foundation, and an Honorary Member of The Club of Budapest. --- Interview Links: — Peter’s website: www.peterrussell.com/index.php — Peter’s books: https://amzn.to/3WRrnhd

Tomás Hardiman is a film producer and a survivor of childhood abuse. His recent documentary “The Days of Trees” tells the story of his own experience of childhood sexual abuse, and his long road to recovery. In this conversation, Tomás reflects on the years he spent in the dark, his gradual process of healing, and how he was able to convert his deepest childhood wound into a creative project - a documentary that is now impacting people all over the world. Gabor Maté had this to say about it: 'It's all about healing and transformation, a person finding themselves… I really urge you to see it. A beautiful film.' Here are some of the things we explore in this discussion: — How memory, shame, and repression often intertwine in trauma — Why Tomás almost walked away from the film — The role of creative work in transforming suffering — How Tomás has been able to forgive the seemingly unforgivable. And more. You can watch the film at https://thedaysoftrees.com/ and get 50% off if you use the code: TWU50 when purchasing. --- Tomás Hardiman holds a B.Comm from NUI Galway (1979) and an M.A. in Film and Television Studies from Dublin City University (1992). After graduation he worked in human resources in Dublin before living for a time in Toronto, where he began a professional career in the theatre as General Manager of Mercury Theatre Company. Following his return to Ireland he was appointed Marketing/Publicity Director of The Abbey Theatre where he worked from 1985 to 1993. He then returned to Galway where he ran his own communications and independent film production company, Parzival Productions. From October 2002 to November 2007 he was Managing Director of Galway Arts Centre and the Cúirt International Festival of Literature. He was a member of the board of Theatre Forum, the representative group for Irish arts organisations, from 2005-2007. He continues to produce and manage creative projects across multiple artforms and in 2013 completed a three-year training programme to become a teacher of the Alexander Technique. He produced eleven films between 1998 and 2023. Most recently he collaborated with acclaimed Irish writer/director Alan Gilsenan, to produce a loose trilogy of films about psychological trauma: Meetings with Ivor, The Meeting and The Days of Trees. The latter won the George Morrison Award for Best Documentary at the 2024 Irish Film and Television Awards. --- Interview Link: — Tomás’ website - https://thedaysoftrees.com/

In this episode, I speak with Professor Guy Leschziner, a consultant neurologist and author of three bestselling books, including: “The Man Who Tasted Words”, “The Secret World of Sleep”, and “The Seven Deadly Sins”, which this interview focuses on. Drawing on insights from evolutionary biology, genetics, and clinical neurology, Guy makes a compelling case that what we label as “sin” may often have a biological cause, and isn’t necessarily a moral failing. Expect to learn: — Why our so-called “sins” evolved as adaptive traits—and why they still serve a purpose — How free will may be more of a spectrum than a binary — Why understanding the biology of behaviour could radically change the criminal justice system — The disturbing story of Robert Alton Harris—and what it reveals about judgment, compassion, and accountability And more. You can learn more about Guy’s work at https://www.guyleschziner.com. --- Dr Guy Leschziner is a neurologist with special expertise in sleep disorders and epilepsy. Dr Leschziner is Consultant Neurologist at London Bridge Hospital and Clinical Lead for the Sleep Disorders Centre at Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital, London, one of the largest sleep units in Europe. He also practices at London Bridge Hospital and the Cromwell Hospital. He is also Reader in Neurology at the Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London. Under the broad umbrella of sleep disorders, Dr Leschziner is a particular authority on narcolepsy, sleepwalking, Kleine-Levin syndrome and restless legs syndrome. Dr Leschziner is also enthusiastically engaged with public education through a wide range of media work. He presented a popular radio series for the BBC, Mysteries of Sleep, as well as The Secrets of Sleep for Channel 4 television in the UK. He has also been an expert commentator for BBC News and The Guardian. Dr Leschziner is also the author of several books: The Nocturnal Brain: Nightmares, Neuroscience and the Secret World of Sleep, The Man Who Tasted Words, and The Seven Deadly Sins. --- Interview Links: — Dr. Leschziner’s website - https://www.guyleschziner.com — Dr. Leschziner’s books: https://amzn.to/4dbnFru

Dr. Sharon Dirckx is a speaker and author trained in neuroscience, who speaks internationally on topics such as science and theology, human consciousness, and the problem of evil. She has appeared on BBC Radio 2, Radio 4 and has also written for The Times. Her books include: Broken Planet, Why, and Am I Just my Brain - which this interview focuses on. Here are some of the questions we explore in this conversation: — The mind-body problem - how could a mindless universe produce conscious beings? — Sharon’s views on the explanatory power of panpsychism — How can we make sense of the immense suffering in the world and natural disasters — How our image of God impacts our mental health and wellbeing. And more. You can learn more about Sharon’s work and books at https://www.dirckx.org. --- Sharon Dirckx is a speaker and author whose work focuses on responding to the spiritual and faith-related questions that people ask today. She is motivated to show how and why the person of Jesus Christ remains as relevant as ever to the pertinent questions of our time, and to do so in an engaging way. Originally from a scientific background, she has a PhD in brain imaging from the University of Cambridge. Sharon is invited to speak and lecture across the UK and internationally, in workplaces, universities, schools, churches and conferences. --- Interview Links: — Sharon’s website - https://www.dirckx.org — Sharon’s books - https://amzn.to/4iFKVPk

Dr Lisa Feldman Barrett, who is in the top one percent of most cited scientists in the world for her revolutionary research in psychology and neuroscience. She is a Distinguished Professor of Psychology at Northeastern University, and also holds appointments at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, where she is Chief Science Officer for the Center for Law, Brain & Behavior. In addition to the books Seven and a Half Lessons About the Brain and How Emotions are Made, Dr. Barrett has published over 260 peer-reviewed, scientific papers appearing in Science, Nature Neuroscience, and other top journals in psychology and cognitive neuroscience, as well as six academic volumes. She has also given a popular TED talk with over 6.5 million views. From this conversation, you'll learn: — Dr Barrett's groundbreaking theory of emotions and its implications for mental health and wellbeing — How emotional "granularity" can enhance your quality of life — Why everything we see is a "concept" and why this matters — Dr Barrett's thoughts on free will and personal responsibility. And more. You can learn more about Dr Barrett's work by going to: www.lisafeldmanbarrett.com --- Dr. Lisa Feldman Barrett is a psychologist, neuroscientist, professor, bestselling author, and one of the most cited scientists in the world. She received a National Institutes of Health Director’s Pioneer Award for her revolutionary research on emotion in the brain. These highly competitive, multimillion dollar awards are given to scientists of exceptional creativity who are expected to transform biomedical and behavioral research. She also received a Guggenheim Fellowship in 2019, the APS Mentor Award for Lifetime Achievement in 2018, and the APA Distinguished Scientific Contribution Award in Psychology in 2021. Among her many accomplishments, Dr. Barrett has testified before Congress, presented her research to the FBI, consulted to the National Cancer Institute, appeared on Through The Wormhole with Morgan Freeman and The Today Show with Maria Shriver, and been a featured guest on public television and podcast and radio programs worldwide. She is also an elected fellow of the American Academy of Arts & Sciences and the Royal Society of Canada. --- Interview Links: — Seven and a Half Lessons About the Brain - Lisa Feldman Barrett: https://amzn.to/3CWM1VQ — How Emotions are Made - Lisa Feldman Barrett: https://amzn.to/3Rx1BeT — Dr Barrett’s website: www.lisafeldmanbarrett.com — Matter and Consciousness - Dr Iain McGilchrist: https://bit.ly/3RGSQz0 3 Books Dr Porges Recommends Every Therapist Should Read: — Between us by Batja Mesquita - https://amzn.to/3FdYkxT — The End of Trauma by George Bonanno - https://amzn.to/3AW1fbL — How Emotions are Made by Lisa Feldman Barrett - https://amzn.to/3GVdxFl

Professor Marc Lewis is a former Professor of Developmental Psychology at the University of Toronto and a world leading expert in the neuroscience of addiction. It was particularly interesting to speak with Marc because not only does he have a deep understanding of the neural mechanisms underneath addictive processes, he also has battled with quite severe opioid addictions himself. He is the author of two bestselling books on the subject: Memoirs of an Addicted Brain, and The Biology of Desire. Now, he works as a clinical psychologist in Toronto, specialising in addiction treatment. You’ll learn: — How Marc’s experiences as a developmental psychologist helped him to develop his groundbreaking learning model of addiction — A simple introduction to the neuroscience of addiction and the brain areas involved — Why it’s hard to stop an addictive pattern once it has taken hold — What works (and what doesn’t) in recovery. And more. You can learn more about Marc’s innovative work by visiting: www.memoirsofanaddictedbrain.com --- Prof Marc Lewis, PhD is a neuroscientist, professor, bestselling author, and one of the world’s leading experts on the neuroscience of addiction. In his academic work, he has authored or co-authored more than fifty journal articles, and for many years was a professor of developmental psychology at the University of Toronto and then Radboud University (Netherlands) before retiring. For the last decade, he has focused on making his work more accessible to a wider audience through books for lay readers, pop science articles, public talks, and interviews. He is the author of two bestselling books on addiction: “Memoirs of an Addicted Brain” and “The Biology of Desire”, a book which Dr Gabor Mate argues “effectively refutes the disease model of addiction.” He is currently practicing psychotherapy as a clinical psychologist in Toronto, working with clients with addictive problems and other difficulties. You can learn more about his work at www.memoirsofanaddictedbrain.com. --- 6 Books Prof Lewis Recommends for Every Therapist Should Read: — Drug Use for Grown-Ups: Chasing Liberty in the Land of Fear —Dr. Carl L. Hart - https://amzn.to/44MnKfG — High Price: Drugs, Neuroscience, and Discovering Myself — Dr. Carl L. Hart - https://amzn.to/3Kt8YmH — Unbroken Brain: A Revolutionary New Way of Understanding Addiction — Szalavitz Maia - https://amzn.to/3NS0p5q — Drinking: A Love Story — Caroline Knapp - https://amzn.to/3NWYaOt — The Night of the Gun — David Carr - https://amzn.to/44SHYod — The Biology of Desire: why addiction is not a disease (The Addicted Brain) —Prof Marc Lewis - https://amzn.to/44QYpBl

In this episode, I’m joined by Professor Paul Gilbert and Professor Jeremy Holmes. Paul is the developer of Compassion Focused Therapy and one of the world’s leading clinical psychologists studying the scientific application of compassion in therapeutic practice. Jeremy is an award winning attachment expert, clinician, and author, whose books include: In Search of the Secure Base, Attachment & Psychotherapy, and most recently The Spirit of Psychotherapy. In this wide ranging discussion, we explore: — The difference between “safety” and “safeness” and why this is vital to understand in therapeutic practice — How early attachment dynamics shape our developmental trajectory and relationships throughout life — How attachment theory helped to form the theoretical foundations of Compassion Focused Therapy. And more. You can find Jeremy’s books at http://bit.ly/jh-books and learn more about Paul’s work at http://compassionatemind.co.uk --- Professor Paul Gilbert, FBPsS, PhD, OBE is a British clinical psychologist, the founder of compassion focused therapy (CFT), compassionate mind training (CMT) and author of books such as The Compassionate Mind: A New Approach to Life’s Challenges, Overcoming Depression. He has researched evolutionary approaches to psychopathology for over 40 years with a special focus on the roles of mood, shame and self-criticism in various mental health difficulties for which Compassion Focused Therapy was developed. Professor Gilbert has written/edited 21 books and over 200 papers. In 2006 he established the Compassionate Mind Foundation as an international charity with the mission statement: “To promote wellbeing through the scientific understanding and application of compassion”. Professor Jeremy Holmes is a clinician, author, leading Attachment expert, and three-time speaker at The Weekend University. For 35 years, he was Consultant Psychiatrist/Medical Psychotherapist at University College London (UCL) and then in North Devon, UK, and Chair of the Psychotherapy Faculty of the Royal College of Psychiatrists 1998-2002. He is visiting Professor at the University of Exeter, and lectures nationally and internationally. In addition to 200+ peer-reviewed papers and chapters in the field of psychoanalysis and attachment theory, his books include John Bowlby and Attachment Theory, Exploring In Security, Attachment in Therapeutic Practice, and most recently: “The Brain has a Mind of Its Own”. He was the recipient of the Bowlby-Ainsworth Founders Award 2009. --- Interview Links: — Jeremy’s books - http://bit.ly/jh-books — Paul’s work - http://compassionatemind.co.uk

Dr Morgan is a Professor of Counseling & Human Services at the University of Scranton, who has spent thirty years researching, teaching, and writing about mental health and addiction. He is the author of Addiction, Attachment, Trauma and Recovery, which provides a holistic, multidisciplinary framework for understanding and treating addictive processes. In this conversation, we explore: — The extent to which addiction can be viewed as an attachment disorder — The central paradox at the heart of addiction — Why addiction is a “jealous relationship” that crowds out most others — Why addictions localised within individual members can be thought of as “symptoms” of much wider societal problems. And more. You can get a copy of Dr Morgan’s book by going to https://bit.ly/oliver-addiction. --- Dr. Oliver Morgan is a distinguished Professor of Counseling & Human Services in the Panuska College of Professional Studies at the University of Scranton in Scranton, PA. With a diverse educational background, he holds a Bachelor's degree in English and Philosophy from Fordham University, a Master's degree in Marital and Family Therapy, and a doctoral degree in Pastoral Psychotherapy from Boston University. Dr. Morgan's expertise lies in the fields of addiction studies, marital and family counseling, and pastoral care. He has made significant contributions to the academic community through his teaching and publications. As a faculty member since 1990, he has taught various courses in undergraduate and graduate programs, shaping the curriculum in Addiction Studies and Marital and Family Counseling. Dr. Morgan also served as the Department Chair from 1997 to 2009. His publications include an acclaimed book titled "Addiction, Attachment, Trauma and Recovery: The Power of Connection," published in 2019 by W.W. Norton. Additionally, he has co-edited five books covering topics such as Addiction Studies, Catholic Intellectual Thought, and Counseling & Spirituality. Dr. Morgan has authored or co-authored numerous book chapters, proceedings, and peer-reviewed articles on subjects ranging from addiction and pastoral care to spirituality and clinical practice. Beyond his academic endeavors, Dr. Morgan has been involved in service and leadership activities both within the university and the wider community. He has held important roles in university-wide task forces focused on student lifestyles and corporate mission and identity. Furthermore, he co-founded a psychosocial oncology practice in Northeast Pennsylvania, offering support to cancer patients, their caregivers, and loved ones. Dr. Oliver Morgan's contributions to counseling, addiction studies, and his commitment to compassionate care have established him as a respected educator, researcher, and practitioner in the field of counseling and human services. --- 4 Books Dr Morgan Recommends for Every Therapist Should Read: — Addiction, Attachment, Trauma, and Recovery: The Power of Connection — Oliver J. Morgan - https://wwnorton.co.uk/books/9780393713176-addiction-attachment-trauma-and-recovery — In the Realm of Hungry Ghosts: Close Encounters with Addiction — Dr Gabor Maté - https://amzn.to/4125SLH — The Globalization of Addiction: A Study in Poverty of the Spirit — Bruce K. Alexander - https://amzn.to/46I1yp1 — Addiction and Spirituality: A Multidisciplinary Approach — Oliver J. Morgan - https://amzn.to/3JWpQBU

In this interview, I speak with Dr Steve Taylor, a psychologist, writer, and lecturer at Leeds Beckett University. Dr Taylor is the author of several bestselling books on psychology and spirituality, including: The Leap, Spiritual Science, and most recently Time Expansion Experiences, which this conversation focuses on. Expect to learn: — Why linear time is an illusion of the mind — What near-death experiences and life reviews reveal about the nature of time — Why time feels faster as we age—and what we can do to slow it down — Dr Taylor’s views on the extent to which the future is “set in stone”—and the implications this has for free will And more. You can learn more about Steve’s work and books at https://www.stevenmtaylor.com. --- Steve Taylor is a senior lecturer in psychology at Leeds Beckett University, and the author of several best-selling books on psychology and spirituality. He is a past chair of the Transpersonal Psychology Section of the British Psychological Society. His new book is Time Expansion Experiences, and his previous books include The Adventure, Extraordinary Awakenings, The Clear Light, The Fall, Out of the Darkness, The Calm Center, The Leap and Spiritual Science. His books have been published in more than 20 languages, and he regularly appears in the media in the UK, including Radio 4’s Prayer for the Day and the BBC World Service. He writes blog articles for Scientific American, The Conversation and for Psychology Today. Eckhart Tolle has described his work as ‘an important contribution to the shift in consciousness which is happening on our planet at present.’ Steve lives in Manchester, England, with his wife and three children. --- Interview Links: — Dr Taylor’s’ website - https://www.stevenmtaylor.com — Dr Taylor's books: https://amzn.to/4hMtAE8

Dr. James Hollis is one of the world’s leading Jungian analysts. Across a career spanning decades, he has written extensively on how we confront the unconscious, navigate midlife, and live with greater courage and self-awareness. His books include: Living an Examined Life, Under Saturn's Shadow, and a Life of Meaning. In this conversation, we explore: — The extent to which Dr. Hollis believes there is a "purposeful intelligence" at work in nature. — How we live a larger life by asking larger questions - and the questions he finds more helpful for leading his clients to a path of enlargement — How to distinguish between ego-based desires and those coming from a deeper place — What Dr. Hollis learned from his near death experience in 2022. And more. You can learn more about his work and books at http://jameshollis.net --- James Hollis, Ph. D., was born in Springfield, Illinois, and graduated from Manchester University in 1962 and Drew University in 1967. He taught Humanities 26 years in various colleges and universities before retraining as a Jungian analyst at the Jung Institute of Zurich, Switzerland (1977-82). He is presently a licensed Jungian analyst in private practice in Washington, D.C. He served as Executive Director of the Jung Educational Center in Houston, Texas for many years and was Executive Director of the Jung Society of Washington until 2019, and now serves on the JSW Board of Directors. He is a retired Senior Training Analyst for the Inter-Regional Society of Jungian Analysts, was first Director of Training of the Philadelphia Jung Institute, and is Vice-President Emeritus of the Philemon Foundation. Additionally he is a Professor of Jungian Studies for Saybrook University of San Francisco/Houston. He lives with his wife Jill, an artist and retired therapist, in a suburb of Washington, DC. Together they have three living children and eight grand-children. He has written a total of twenty books, which have been translated into Swedish, Russian, German, Spanish, French, Hungarian, Portuguese, Turkish, Italian, Korean, Finnish, Romanian, Bulgarian, Farsi, Japanese, Greek, Chinese, Serbian, Latvian, Ukranian and Czech. --- Interview Links: — Dr Hollis’ website - http://jameshollis.net — Dr Hollis’ books - https://amzn.to/41xg1Co

Dr Bessel van der Kolk is a clinician, researcher, and teacher who has spent his professional life studying how children and adults adapt to traumatic experiences. He specialises in translating emerging findings from neuroscience and attachment research to develop and study a range of effective treatments for traumatic stress and developmental trauma in children and adults. He is the author of the New York Times Bestseller: The Body Keeps the Score, the Founder of Trauma Center in Boston, and currently serves as President of the Trauma Research Foundation. In this conversation, we explore: — The role that neurofeedback can play in healing developmental trauma — Dr van der Kolk’s study examining the effects of MDMA on PTSD — The essential difference between those who were traumatised by the 9-11 attacks and those who weren’t — How developmental trauma leads to deficits in sensory integration areas of the brain and the most effective treatments for addressing this. And more. You can learn more about Dr van der Kolk’s work by going to: https://traumaresearchfoundation.org/ --- Bessel van der Kolk MD spends his career studying how children and adults adapt to traumatic experiences, and has translated emerging findings from neuroscience and attachment research to develop and study a range of treatments for traumatic stress in children and adults. In 1984, he set up one of the first clinical/research centers in the US dedicated to study and treatment of traumatic stress in civilian populations, which has trained numerous researchers and clinicians specializing in the study and treatment of traumatic stress, and which has been continually funded to research the impact of traumatic stress and effective treatment interventions. He has focused on studying treatments that stabilize physiology, increase executive functioning and help traumatized individuals to feel fully alert to the present. ​ His efforts resulted in the establishment of Trauma Center (now the Trauma Research Foundation) that consisted of a well-trained clinical team specializing in the treatment of children and adults with histories of child maltreatment, that applied treatment models that are widely taught and implemented nationwide, a research lab that studied the effects of neurofeedback and MDMA on behavior, mood, and executive functioning, and numerous trainings nationwide to a variety of mental health professional, educators, parent groups, policy makers, and law enforcement personnel. --- 3 Books Dr van Der Kolk Recommends Every Therapist Should Read: — John Bowlby - Attachment and Loss - https://amzn.to/4bOd3NK — Daniel Stern - The Interpersonal World of the Infant - https://amzn.to/4e1aTf8 — Ed Tronick - The Neurobehavioral and Social-Emotional Development of Infants and Children (Norton Series on Interpersonal Neurobiology) - https://amzn.to/459qIwa

In this interview, I’m joined by Derek Sivers. Derek is the Founder of CD Baby — a company he sold for $22 million, and then gave pretty much everything to charity. He has written multiple bestselling books, given TED talks which have reached millions, and been a circus performer for 10 years. There have been few people who have had a bigger positive impact on my thinking than Derek, so it was a real treat to sit down with him for an hour and have this conversation. Expect to learn: — The connection between your beliefs, your emotions, and your actions — How Derek sold his company for $22 million and then instantly gave it all away to charity — His unconventional approach to getting advice from mentors — Why Derek has journalled every day for the past 13 years and why this is the “single most useful thing” he does. And more. You can learn more about Derek’s work, books, and philosophy at https://sive.rs. --- Derek Sivers graduated in 1990 from Berklee, where he majored in professional music. He entered as a guitarist and came out a self-proclaimed “everything guy” after studying voice, composition, piano, songwriting, music synthesis, and production. Sivers is best known as the founder of CD Baby(Opens in a new window), the largest online distribution company for independent music. After years of touring, recording, and writing for TV projects, he started CD Baby from his bedroom—almost by accident. When he obtained a merchant account to sell his CDs online (not an easy task in the ’90s), musician friends began asking if he could sell their CDs. Soon he was getting calls from strangers, and the foundation for a business was laid. Sivers launched CD Baby in 1998 with a musician-centric ideology that sought to maximize musicians’ profits rather than minimize them for company gain. In 2003, Sivers won the World Technology Award and was described by Esquire Magazine as “one of the last music-business folk heroes.” In keeping with his philanthropic ethos, Sivers sold CD Baby in 2008 and gave the proceeds to a charitable trust for music education. In 2011, Sivers published Anything You Want(Opens in a new window), a book chronicling his challenges and triumphs founding, building, and selling CD Baby. In 2013, Sivers launched Wood Egg(Opens in a new window), which publishes guides about how to build companies in Asia. He is a frequent speaker at the TED Conference, with over 5 million views of his talks. --- Interview Links: — Derek’s website - https://sive.rs Interview Links: — Derek’s website - https://sive.rs — Derek's new book - https://sive.rs/u — Derek's new book (Amazon Link) - https://amzn.to/41HkBPz

In this episode, I’m joined by Linda Thai — a mental health clinician, storyteller, and educator who has had her own lived experiences of individual, collective, historical and cultural traumatization...and healing. I’ve interviewed many fascinating individuals in the past seven years of running The Weekend University, but there was something different about Linda. It might have something to do with her getting off the grid and living in the wilderness in Alaska, or perhaps it's the eclectic self-education she has immersed herself in. Whatever it is, Linda brings to the table a unique and holistic perspective on attachment, that I think is years ahead of the conventional wisdom. Expect to learn: — The difference between psychology, trauma-informed psychology, culturally-informed psychology, and liberation informed psychology — Where traditional attachment theory falls short — Why we need to redefine the parameters of attachment and take an ecosystem view And more. You can learn more about Linda’s work and trainings at https://www.linda-thai.com/. --- Linda Thai, LMSW ERYT-200 is a trauma therapist and educator who specializes in brain and body-based modalities for addressing complex developmental trauma. Linda has worked with thousands of people from all over the world to promote mindfulness, recover from trauma, and tend to grief as a means of self care. Linda’s work centers on healing with a special focus on the experiences of adult children of refugees and immigrants. Her teaching is infused with empathy, storytelling, humor, research, practical tools, applied knowledge, and experiential wisdom. She has assisted internationally renowned psychiatrist and trauma expert, Dr. Bessel van der Kolk, with his private small group psychotherapy workshops aimed at healing attachment trauma. She has a Master of Social Work with an emphasis on the neurobiology of attachment and trauma. Linda has studied Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, Somatic Experiencing, Brainspotting, Internal Family Systems, Trauma-Informed Stabilization Treatment, Havening Touch, Flash Technique, and structural dissociation of the personality, and offers the Safe and Sound Protocol, yoga, and meditation within her practice. Linda works on the traditional lands of the Tanana Athabascan people (Fairbanks, Alaska) with those recovering from addiction, trauma, and mental illness. She is passionate about breaking the cycle of historical and intergenerational trauma at the individual and community levels. --- Interview Links: Linda’s website - https://www.linda-thai.com/