The Weekend University

In this episode, Niall speaks with Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman, a cognitive scientist, humanistic psychologist, and author of “Rise Above”. Scott has spent his career redefining human potential and helping people overcome limiting beliefs. Despite being placed in special education as a child due to an auditory learning disability, he earned his PhD and is now one of the most cited psychologists in the world. In this conversation, they explore: — The difference between being a victim and having a victim mindset — Why vulnerable narcissism can block self-actualisation — How the stories we tell ourselves shape our potential — The value of shifting from “why” questions to “what” questions — Scott’s approach to self-actualisation coaching and connecting to your core self And more. You can learn more about Scott’s work at https://scottbarrykaufman.com. --- Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman is a psychologist, coach, professor, keynote speaker, and best-selling author who is passionate about helping all kinds of minds live a creative, fulfilling, and self-actualized life. His early educational experiences made him realize the deep reservoir of untapped potential of students, including bright and creative children who have been diagnosed with a learning disability. Dr. Kaufman is among the top 1% most cited scientists in the world for his research on intelligence and creativity. Dr. Kaufman is a professor of psychology at Columbia University and director of the Center for Human Potential. He hosts The Psychology Podcast which has received over 30 million downloads and is widely considered among the top psychology podcasts in the world. He is also a regular keynote speaker. If you’d like him to speak at one of your events, you can make a request here. Dr. Kaufman’s writing has appeared in The Atlantic, Scientific American, Psychology Today, and Harvard Business Review, and he is the author and editor of 11 books. In his most recent book Rise Above: Overcome a Victim Mindset, Empower Yourself, and Realize Your Full Potential, his explores the limiting beliefs and widespread anxiety that puts us in boxes, lowers our expectations, and holds us back in our lives. In addition to teaching at Columbia, Dr. Kaufman has also been a professor at the University of Pennsylvania and NYU. Dr. Kaufman received a B.S. in psychology and human computer interaction from Carnegie Mellon, an M. Phil in experimental psychology from the University of Cambridge under a Gates Cambridge Scholarship, and a Ph.D. in cognitive psychology from Yale University (see his dissertation Beyond General Intelligence: The Dual-Process Theory of Human Intelligence). He is founder of Self-Actualization Coaching, receiving his formal coaching training from Positive Acorn. He is also an Honorary Principal Fellow at the University of Melbourne’s Centre for Wellbeing Science. --- Interview Links: — Dr. Kaufman's website: https://scottbarrykaufman.com/ — Dr. Kaufman's book: https://amzn.to/4rvXC4C

In this episode, Niall speaks with Yannick Jacob, an existential coach, philosopher, and educator with over 15 years of coaching experience. Yannick helps people explore the deeper philosophical questions behind everyday life. His approach blends existential philosophy with practical coaching to develop what he calls “existential resilience.” In this conversation, they explore: — How big existential questions are always at work beneath the surface of our lives — How building “existential resilience” helps us face life’s inevitable challenges — Why avoiding depth and complexity may feel comfortable but leaves us unprepared — The value of coaching as a space to courageously face yourself — How presence is something AI can never truly replicate in coaching relationships And more. You can learn more about Yannick’s work at https://www.coachingandmediation.net or explore his resources for coaches at https://rocketsupervision.com. — Yannick Jacob is an existential life and leadership coach, coach-trainer & supervisor, positive psychologist, and mediator whose work combines existential philosophy, positive psychology, and leadership development. He has led academic programs (including being Programme Leader of the MSc Coaching Psychology at University of East London), designs and trains ICF-accredited courses and supervises coaches globally. His focus is on helping individuals re-think what success, happiness, and purpose look like, through coaching, supervision, and philosophical reflection. You can learn more at https://www.coachingandmediation.net. --- Interview Links: — Yannick’s website: https://www.coachingandmediation.net — Resources for coaches at https://rocketsupervision.com.

In this episode, Niall speaks with Olga Khazan, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of “Weird” and “Me, But Better”. Drawing on research and personal experimentation, Olga shows how our personalities are more flexible than we often realise—and how intentional change can lead to greater fulfilment and success. In this conversation, they explore: — Why personality change often starts with letting go of limiting self-narratives — How Buddhist principles can reduce neuroticism and anxiety — Why acting against your natural tendencies sometimes brings unexpected benefits — The link between personality traits and life outcomes — How setting meaningful goals can support positive personality change And more. You can learn more about Olga’s work at http://olgakhazan.com. --- Olga Khazan is a staff writer for The Atlantic. Prior to that, she was The Atlantic’s Global editor. She has also written for the New York Times, the Los Angeles Times, the Washington Post, Forbes, and other publications. She is the author of Me, But Better: The Science and Promise of Personality Change and Weird: The Power of Being an Outsider in an Insider World. --- Interview Links: — Olga’s website - https://olgakhazan.com — Olga's new book: Me, But Better - https://amzn.to/4rBLDly — Sneak peeks from Olga's book - https://olgakhazan.substack.com

Donald Robertson is a cognitive-behavioural psychotherapist, author, and a leading expert on ancient Stoic philosophy and its modern applications. Originally from Scotland and now based in Canada, he has spent his career examining how ancient philosophy can help address modern psychological challenges. In this episode, Niall speaks with Donald about his book: “How to Think Like Socrates” and the continued relevance of Socratic philosophy for modern life and mental wellbeing. In this conversation, they explore: — Why Socrates was a “street philosopher” who brought philosophy into everyday life — How Socratic questioning can build cognitive flexibility and soften rigid thinking — The link between wisdom and emotional wellbeing that underpins cognitive therapy — Why clarifying values matters for living a meaningful life — How ancient philosophical practices can be applied to modern psychological challenges And more. You can learn more about Donald’s work at http://donaldrobertson.name. — Donald is a writer, cognitive-behavioural psychotherapist and trainer. He is one of the founding members of the Modern Stoicism nonprofit, and the founder and president of the Plato’s Academy Centre nonprofit in Athens, Greece. Donald specializes in teaching evidence-based psychological skills, and known as an expert on the relationship between modern evidence-based psychotherapy and classical Greek and Roman philosophy. His work is highly interdisciplinary, combining philosophy, history, and psychology. He was born in Irvine, Scotland, and grew up in Ayr. He worked as a psychotherapist for about twenty years in London, England, where he had a clinic in Harley Street, and ran a training school for therapists. He emigrated to Canada in 2013 and began focusing more on writing and consultancy. He now divides his time between Greece and Canada. Donald is an experienced public speaker. His therapy practice specialised for many years in helping clients with social anxiety and self-confidence issues. His work, and that of his colleagues, has often featured in the media of different countries, including Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, the BBC, etc. --- Interview Links: — Donald’s website - http://donaldrobertson.name — Donald's books - https://amzn.to/4bwfdUY

In this episode, Niall speaks with Dr. Christopher Bache about his 20-year exploration of consciousness, including 73 high-dose LSD sessions undertaken as part of a disciplined, structured inquiry. Dr. Bache is a Professor of Philosophy and Religious Studies at Youngstown State University. Dr. Bache’s journey moved beyond personal healing into encounters with collective consciousness and what he calls the diamond soul. His work brings together philosophy, spirituality, and direct investigation of non-ordinary states of awareness. In this conversation, they explore: — How psychedelic experiences revealed the boundary between individual and collective consciousness — The evolutionary purpose of reincarnation and its role in human development — Why a collective dark night of the soul may precede a major shift in consciousness — How meeting suffering, personal and collective, can open the way to deeper freedom — Why Dr. Bache understands death as a homecoming rather than an ending And more. You can learn more about Dr. Bache’s work at http://chrisbache.com. — Christopher Bache is professor emeritus in the department of Philosophy and Religious Studies at Youngstown State University, adjunct faculty at the California Institute of Integral Studies, Emeritus Fellow at the Institute of Noetic Sciences, and on the Advisory Council of Grof Legacy Training. --- Interview Links: — Dr. Bache’s website - https://chrisbache.com — Dr. Bache’s book: https://amzn.to/3NLkPRl

Dr. Sherif Darwish Abdalla is a consultant psychiatrist and addiction therapist. He is the Co-Founder of Recovery Egypt, one of the leading treatment and rehabilitation centres in North Africa. He has publications in many international Journals, including the European Journal of Psychiatry. In this conversation, we explore: — Dr Darwish’s radical approach to recovery and how it goes against many of the norms of mainstream psychiatry — How Dr Darwish and his colleague built their recovery centre from scratch and his advice to others who are interested in undertaking similar projects — Why community and connection need to be at the heart of a holistic recovery plan And more. Learn more about Recovery Egypt by going to: https://recoveryegypt.com. --- Dr. Sherif Darwish Abdalla is a consultant psychiatrist and addiction therapist from Egypt. His main area of focus in both work and research is addiction rehabilitation. He is a co-founder of the Recovery Centers for Addiction and Recovery, a prominent treatment and rehabilitation chain in Egypt. Dr. Darwish has published in many international journals, including the European Journal of Psychiatry. He will discuss the motivational challenges that therapists commonly face with their patients, and strategies for early identification and effective management. --- 3 Books Dr Darwish Recommends Every Therapist Should Read: — Inside Rehab: The Surprising Truth About Addiction Treatment - and How to Get Help That Works - Anne M Fletcher - https://amzn.to/45A1Xbg — Addictive Thinking: Understanding Self-Deception - Abraham J Twerski - https://amzn.to/3M5dZT0 — Motivational Interviewing, Fourth Edition: Helping People Change and Grow - William R Miller - https://amzn.to/45vSodv

Richard Lang is a philosopher, author, and the leading proponent of the "Headless Way" – a method of self-inquiry first developed by Douglas Harding. After meeting Harding at age 17 in 1970, Richard has spent over five decades exploring, practising, and sharing the Headless Way Approach. In this conversation, we explore: — The revolutionary insight that you cannot see your own head, and what this simple observation reveals about consciousness and identity — How our sense of self changes depending on the "range of the observer" and why this matters — Why Richard believes Douglas Harding discovered "the center" that religions and science have been seeking — How this understanding transforms our relationship with others, death, time, and purpose And more. You can learn more about Richard's work and join his global community at https://headless.org. — Richard Lang was a student of Douglas Harding, author of “On having no head” and the founder of a contemplation method called "The Headless Way". As Richard describes it, The Headless Way is a modern way of seeing our true nature, the limitless ’space’ we are looking out of. Richard has been practising and sharing the Headless Way for over fifty years now, and has also written several books about it. His mission is to make seeing our true nature as widely available as possible. --- Interview Links: — Richard Lang’s website - https://headless.org — Richard’s YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/user/headexchange

Dr. Judith Joseph is a board-certified psychiatrist, neuroscientist, and author of "High Functioning." As the lead researcher behind the world's first peer-reviewed study on high-functioning depression, Dr. Judith’s work focuses on helping people recognize and address depression before it leads to breakdown. In this conversation, we explore: — What high-functioning depression is and why it often goes unrecognized — How trauma and overworking are connected to hidden depression — Why joy is our "birthright" as humans and how to reclaim it — The biopsychosocial approach to understanding your unique happiness blueprint — Dr. Judith’s five V's framework for cultivating joy: validate, vent, values, vitals, and vision And more. You can learn more about Dr. Judith’s work and book at https://drjudithjoseph.com. — Dr. Judith Joseph, MD, MBA, is a globally-recognised, board-certified psychiatrist, researcher and media contributor. She is the founder and chief investigator at Manhattan Behavioural Medicine, assistant professor in child and adolescent psychiatry at NYU and chair of the Women in Medicine Board at Columbia University. Dr. Judith is a regular contributor to ITN in the UK and appears frequently in international media including Forbes, CNN, Men's Health, Oprah Daily and Apple TV. A trusted voice on mental health, trauma and emotional resilience, she brings clarity and compassion to conversations that matter. Dr. Judith has over 625k+ followers across TikTok and Instagram, where her mental health videos have reached over 50 million viewers. --- Interview Links: — Dr Juditht's website - https://drjudithjoseph.com — See her Today show interview to learn of Judith’s personal journey and her work in mental health - https://www.today.com/video/dr-judith-joseph-talks-book-high-functioning-reclaiming-joy-235854405618 — Watch her interview on YouTube with Mel Robbins - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yQu-Ct9-6dg — Listen to her interview with Dr. Sharon - https://podcasts.apple.com/bb/podcast/high-functioning-and-hidden-depression-ft-dr-judith-joseph/id1839332301?i=1000739097190 — And on the ZOE podcast - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJYdI_gdfvs

Dr Lou Cozolino - a clinical psychologist, author and professor based in Beverly Hills, California. He received his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from UCLA and an M.T.S. from Harvard University. He has been a Professor at Pepperdine since 1986 and lectures around the world on psychotherapy, neuroscience, trauma, and attachment. The work that I do for The Weekend University means I get to explore a wide range of topics, teachers, and practitioners who are at the forefront of the field of psychology. Every so often, I feel like I’ve “struck gold” after discovering someone and I would certainly put Dr Cozolino’s work into this category. In this interview, you’ll learn: — Lou’s experience of being taught by Carl Rogers and what he learned from him — The 4 common factors that underlie all effective forms of psychotherapy — The importance of focusing on principles rather than techniques when educating yourself as a therapist — Why human beings need psychotherapy — The vital ‘half second’ and how this impacts every aspect of our experience — The impact of early experiences on our development — Core shame and why we experience it — Neuroplasticity and why therapists should think of themselves as applied neuroscientists — 3 books that Lou recommends every therapist should read And more. You can learn more about Dr Cozolino’s work at www.drloucozolino.com --- Dr. Lou Cozolino practices psychotherapy and consulting psychology in Beverly Hills, California. He received his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from UCLA and an M.T.S. from Harvard University. He has been a professor at Pepperdine since 1986 and lectures around the world on psychotherapy, neuroscience, trauma, and attachment. With more than 30 years of experience as a psychotherapist and coach, Lou works with adults, adolescents and families as they face a wide variety of life’s challenges. Lou’s primary method as a therapist is one of connection, attunement, and interaction. Working primarily from a psychodynamic model of treatment, he also employs strategies and techniques from the other forms of therapy he has studied including CBT, family systems, and humanistic/existential. --- Interview Links: — Why Therapy Works: https://amzn.to/3wt90El — The Neuroscience of Psychotherapy: https://amzn.to/3MBxcKw — The Making of a Therapist: https://amzn.to/3lnbuha — The Development of a Therapist: https://amzn.to/3wtNOhF — Dr Cozolino’s website: www.drloucozolino.com --- 3 Books Lou Recommends Every Therapist Should Read: — Character Analysis - Wilhelm Reich (1st 120 pages): https://amzn.to/3wDWjoV — Becoming a Person - Carl Rogers: https://amzn.to/3wzrxOg — Thou Shalt Not Be Aware - Alice Miller: https://amzn.to/3sJVUQC --- — Get our latest psychology lectures emailed to your inbox: http://bit.ly/new-talks5 — Check out our next event: http://theweekenduniversity.com/events/

In this episode, I’m joined by two pioneers at the forefront of reshaping our understanding of human consciousness - Professor Donald Hoffman and Dr Iain McGilchrist. Despite coming from very different backgrounds, they’ve both arrived at surprisingly similar conclusions about some of life’s biggest questions and the nature of reality. This conversation explores the parallels—and differences—in their thinking, covering topics like: — The growing scientific evidence that consciousness may be fundamental — The shockingly complex structures that physicists are now discovering beyond spacetime and what this implies — The power of silence for creating breakthroughs in scientific and creative work — The need for both a rigorous scientific and embodied approach to understanding consciousness. And more. You can dive deeper into Iain’s work through his book: The Matter with Things, and Don’s via his book: The Case Against Reality. — Dr Iain McGilchrist is a Psychiatrist and Writer, who lives on the Isle of Skye, off the coast of North West Scotland. He is committed to the idea that the mind and brain can be understood only by seeing them in the broadest possible context, that of the whole of our physical and spiritual existence, and of the wider human culture in which they arise – the culture which helps to mould, and in turn is moulded by, our minds and brains. He was formerly a Consultant Psychiatrist of the Bethlem Royal and Maudsley NHS Trust in London, where he was Clinical Director of their southern sector Acute Mental Health Services. Dr McGilchrist has published original research and contributed chapters to books on a wide range of subjects, as well as original articles in papers and journals, including the British Journal of Psychiatry, American Journal of Psychiatry, The Wall Street Journal, The Sunday Telegraph and The Sunday Times. He has taken part in many radio and TV programmes, documentaries, and numerous podcasts, and interviews on YouTube, among them dialogues with Jordan Peterson, David Fuller of Rebel Wisdom, and philosopher Tim Freke. His books include Against Criticism, The Master and his Emissary: The Divided Brain and the Making of the Western World, The Divided Brain and the Search for Meaning, and Ways of Attending. He published his latest book: The Matter With Things, a book of epistemology and metaphysics. You can keep up to date with his work at https://channelmcgilchrist.com. – Prof. Donald Hoffman, PhD received his PhD from MIT, and joined the faculty of the University of California, Irvine in 1983, where he is a Professor Emeritus of Cognitive Sciences. He is an author of over 100 scientific papers and three books, including Visual Intelligence, and The Case Against Reality. He received a Distinguished Scientific Award from the American Psychological Association for early career research, the Rustum Roy Award of the Chopra Foundation, and the Troland Research Award of the US National Academy of Sciences. His writing has appeared in Edge, New Scientist, LA Review of Books, and Scientific American and his work has been featured in Wired, Quanta, The Atlantic, and Through the Wormhole with Morgan Freeman. You can watch his TED Talk titled “Do we see reality as it is?” and you can follow him on Twitter @donalddhoffman. --- Interview Links: — Dr McGilchirst's website - https://channelmcgilchrist.com — Dr McGilchirst's book - https://amzn.to/3oOSFIW — Prof Hoffman’s profile - https://sites.socsci.uci.edu/~ddhoff/ — Prof Hoffman’s book - https://bit.ly/3SCwTTA

Dr. Federico Faggin is a physicist, engineer, and the inventor of the microprocessor - the technology which paved the way for the digital age; making modern computing, the internet, and smartphones possible. In recent decades, Federico has turned his attention to developing a scientific theory of consciousness based on the latest developments in quantum physics. In this conversation, we explore: — How “quantum fields” may possess consciousness and free will as fundamental properties — Why meaning, not information alone, is the foundation of reality — How Federico’s theory explains the relationship between the body, mind, and consciousness — Why cooperation and love, rather than competition, emerge as the natural organizing principles in this framework And more. You can learn more about Dr. Faggin's work in his book "Irreducible". — Federico Faggin, born in Vicenza, Italy, is a physicist and pioneering inventor in computing. He co-designed one of Italy’s first transistorized computers, developed the MOS Silicon Gate Technology, and led the creation of the world’s first microprocessor, the Intel 4004. He founded Zilog, Cygnet Technologies, and Synaptics, pioneering innovations like the Z80 microprocessor, Touchpad, and Touchscreen. Today, he leads the Federico and Elvia Faggin Foundation, advancing the scientific study of consciousness. Faggin has received major honors including the Marconi Prize, Kyoto Prize, National Medal of Technology, and induction into the National Inventors Hall of Fame. His autobiography, SILICON: From the Invention of the Microprocessor to the New Science of Consciousness, is available worldwide. --- Interview Links: — Dr. Faggin’s X account: https://x.com/fedefaggin?lang=en — Dr. Faggin’s book: https://amzn.to/4rUbshE

Mick is a Professor of Counselling Psychology at the University of Roehampton, a Chartered Psychologist, and an internationally recognised author, trainer, and consultant in the fields of humanistic, existential, and pluralistic therapies. This is Mick’s sixth appearance at The Weekend University, and I can think of very few people on the planet that have both the breadth and depth of knowledge in counselling and psychotherapy as him. This particular conversation focuses on his research into working at relational depth in counselling and psychotherapy. Here are some of the key things you’ll learn: — What relational depth is and why it’s critical for anyone working in the helping professions to be aware of — Martin Buber, the difference between “I - It” and “I Thou” Modes of Relating and how Buber’s philosophy can enhance therapeutic work — The biggest barriers to relational depth and how to avoid them — The best practices for creating the conditions of relational depth with clients, and why you can’t force it — Mick’s advice to his younger self before becoming a psychotherapist. And more. You can learn more about Mick’s work at www.mick-cooper.co.uk --- Professor Mick Cooper is an internationally recognised author, trainer, and consultant in the field of humanistic, existential, and pluralistic therapies. He is a Chartered Psychologist, and Professor of Counselling Psychology at the University of Roehampton. Mick has facilitated workshops and lectures around the world, including New Zealand, Lithuania, and Florida. His books include Existential Therapies, Working at Relational Depth in Counselling and Psychotherapy, and The Handbook of Pluralistic Counselling and Psychotherapy. His latest work is Integrating Counselling and Psychotherapy: Directionality, Synergy, and Social Change. Mick’s main areas of research have been in shared decision-making/ personalising therapy, and counselling for young people in schools. In 2014, Mick received the Carmi Harari Mid-Career Award from the American Psychological Association. He is also a Fellow of the British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy and the Academy of Social Sciences. You can follow him on twitter: @mickcooper77 --- Interview Links: — Working at Relational Depth in Counselling and Psychotherapy - Dave Mearns & Mick Cooper: https://amzn.to/38liKax — Existential Therapies - Mick Cooper: https://amzn.to/3PJXDiN — I and Thou - Martin Buber: https://amzn.to/3apzCh0 — Further resources on relational depth can be found on Mick’s website: https://mick-cooper.squarespace.com/relational-depth --- 3 Books Mick Recommends Every Therapist Should Read: — Bergin and Garfield's Handbook of Psychotherapy and Behaviour Change - Michael Barkham, Wolfgang Lutz & Louis Castonguay: https://amzn.to/39WQFqd — Psychotherapy Relationships that Work: Therapist Contributions and Responsiveness to Patients - John Norcross: https://amzn.to/3t0iCnP — The Gift of Therapy - Irvin Yalom: https://amzn.to/3yX33Be --- — Get our latest psychology lectures emailed to your inbox: http://bit.ly/new-talks5 — Check out our next event: http://theweekenduniversity.com/events

Richard Schwartz and Cece Sykes, who—along with Martha Sweezy— have recently co-authored a book on Internal Family Systems for Addictions. Richard is the Founder of the Internal Family Systems (IFS) Model, a pioneering approach to psychotherapy which can be used to treat a wide range of problems, including eating disorders, self harm, addiction, and trauma. Cece is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and IFS Senior Trainer with over thirty years of clinical experience working with individuals, couples and families, specialising in working with the effects of trauma and addiction. In this lively and wide-ranging discussion, we cover: — A basic intro to the IFS Model — The root causes of addiction from an IFS lens — Why IFS offers a highly effective treatment modality for addictive processes — Best practices for using IFS when treating addiction and also important things to avoid. And more. You can learn more about Cece's work at www.cecesykeslcsw.com and find out information about Dr Schwartz's upcoming IFS trainings by visiting www.ifs-institute.com. --- Cece Sykes, LCSW, ACSW; IFS Senior Trainer, US and international. Contributed to Levels 1 and 2 IFS training manuals and teaches L1 as well as L2 Trauma and Addiction. Cece has over thirty years of clinical experience working with individuals, couples and families, specializing in work with the effects of trauma and addiction. Her chapter on compassionate approaches to addictive process appears in IFS: Innovations and Elaborations, 2016, Routledge. Cece also has special interests in spiritual practices intersecting with therapy and in the impact of psychotherapy upon the life of the therapist and she lectures, consults and leads workshops on all of these topics. Cece lives and works in the city of Chicago. Richard Schwartz, PhD., began his career as a systemic family therapist and an academic. Grounded in systems thinking, Dr. Schwartz developed Internal Family Systems (IFS) in response to clients’ descriptions of various parts within themselves. He focused on the relationships among these parts and noticed that there were systemic patterns to the way they were organized across clients. He also found that when the clients’ parts felt safe and were allowed to relax, the clients would experience spontaneously the qualities of confidence, openness, and compassion that Dr. Schwartz came to call the Self. He found that when in that state of Self, clients would know how to heal their parts. A featured speaker for national professional organizations, Dr. Schwartz has published many books and over fifty articles about IFS. Learn more at: www.ifs-institute.com. --- 3 Books Cece Recommends Every Therapist Should Read: — Drug use for grown-ups: Chasing liberty in the land of fear - Dr. Carl L. Hart - https://amzn.to/41YvsCJ — Unbroken Brain, A Revolutionary New Way of Understanding Addiction - Szalavitz, Maia - https://amzn.to/3oVEBgu — No Bad Parts; Healing Trauma and Restoring Wholeness with IFS. Sounds- Richard Schwartz - https://amzn.to/3NuwDFu 3 Books Richard Recommends Every Therapist Should Read: — Internal Family Systems Therapy for Addictions - Cece Sykes, Martha Sweezy, Richard C. Schwartz - https://amzn.to/3Hyyqpc — Internal Family Systems Therapy: Second Edition - Richard Schwartz - https://amzn.to/44sagX9 — Introduction to Internal Family Systems- Richard Schwartz - https://amzn.to/3HBfgiC

In this interview, I’m joined by Dr Bonnie Badenoch. Bonnie is an author, therapist, mentor, and the co-founder of the nonprofit agency: Nurturing the Heart with the Brain in Mind. In a lively and wide ranging conversation, we explore: — How we’re organised to be protected until the possibility of healing arrives — Inner community - what it is, how it forms, and why it’s vital to understand when we’re discussing attachment — How our image of God influences our attachment patterns and overall psychological wellbeing — How Bonnie’s “radical inclusiveness” approach can help us heal attachment wounds And more. If you’re interested in a deeper dive, I highly recommend picking up a copy of Bonnie’s book: The Heart of Trauma, and you can learn more about her work by going to https://nurturingtheheart.com. --- Dr Bonnie Badenoch, PhD, is the co-founder of the Nurturing the Heart with the Brain in Mind, a nonprofit organization dedicated to fostering awareness of the brain, mind, and relationships in the service of creating a more awake and compassionate world. She is the author of Being a Brain-Wise Therapist: A Practical Guide to Interpersonal Neurobiology (W. W. Norton, 2008), and is an active member of the Global Association for Interpersonal Neurobiology Studies (GAINS). You can learn more about her work at www.nurturingtheheart.com. --- Interview Links: — Bonnie’s website - https://nurturingtheheart.com 3 Books Dr. Bonnie Badenoch Recommends Every Therapist Should Read: — Anxiously Attached — Jessica Baum - https://amzn.to/3T1Cnsb — The Continuum Concept — Jean Liedloff - https://amzn.to/46VCRpy — Parenting from the Inside Out — Dan Siegel - https://amzn.to/3Mcnqj4

Dr. Donna Thomas is a social scientist and researcher specializing in children's consciousness studies. With over 28 years of experience researching with children, she has pioneered investigations into children's transcendental experiences and altered states of consciousness, challenging conventional materialist paradigms. In this conversation, we explore: — How a near-death experience at age 15 transformed Dr. Thomas's understanding of identity and consciousness — Why children may naturally access altered states of consciousness that adults often need "gateway tools" like meditation or psychedelics to reach — The fascinating research on children's near-death experiences, including common patterns like spirals, tunnels, and feelings of "coming home" — How our materialist paradigm often pathologizes children's transcendental experiences rather than recognizing their potential validity — The compelling evidence for past life memories in children, including the surprising correlation between birthmarks and wounds from previous lives And more. You can learn more about Dr. Thomas's work through her book: "Children's Unexplained Experiences in a Post-Materialist World". Get access to the 7 Insights Monthly Newsletter: http://bit.ly/seven-insights --- Dr. Donna Thomas is a researcher, author, and lecturer whose pioneering work explores children’s unexplained experiences and what they reveal about consciousness and the nature of being human. She is the author of Children’s Unexplained Experiences in a Post-Materialist World, a groundbreaking book that challenges materialist views of reality and gives voice to children’s lived experiences of the extraordinary. A Research Fellow and Co-Director at the University of Central Lancashire’s ICreateS International Research Unit, Dr. Thomas has spent over two decades studying how children describe experiences such as telepathy, near-death events, and intuitive knowing — and what these stories can teach us about the deeper dimensions of self and awareness. Inspired by her own transformative experience at age fifteen, Dr. Thomas believes that listening to children with openness and respect can expand our understanding of consciousness and point toward a more compassionate, post-materialist worldview. --- Interview Links: — Dr Thomas’ book: https://amzn.to/3XofnW6 — Dr Thomas’ X: https://x.com/donnamthomas / @donnamthomas

Dr Pat Ogden is a pioneer in somatic psychology, the developer of Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and one of the leading voices revolutionising our approach to trauma treatment. This conversation explores how sensorimotor psychotherapy can help us understand and treat attachment wounds - particularly those picked up in early life. You’ll learn: — How the body starts to “shape” itself based on our relationship with our early caregivers — The underlying principles that sensorimotor psychotherapy is built upon — Why how we organise our experiences may be the most important factor in our mental health and wellbeing — How sensorimotor psychotherapy helps to elicit unconscious and implicit patterns, so that healing can take place. And more. You can learn more about Pat’s work by going to: https://sensorimotorpsychotherapy.org. --- Pat Ogden, PhD, is a pioneer in somatic psychology, the creator of the Sensorimotor Psychotherapy method, and founder of the Sensorimotor Psychotherapy Institute.  Dr. Ogden is trained in a wide variety of somatic and psychotherapeutic approaches, and has over 45 years of experience working with individuals and groups.  She is co-founder of the Hakomi Institute, past faculty of Naropa University (1985-2005), a clinician, consultant, and sought after international lecturer. Dr. Ogden is the first author of two groundbreaking books in somatic psychology: Trauma and the Body: A Sensorimotor Approach to Psychotherapy  and Sensorimotor Psychotherapy: Interventions for Trauma and Attachment (2015) both published in the Interpersonal Neurobiology Series of W. W. Norton. Her third book in this series, The Pocket Guide to Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, published in 2021, and she is working on Sensorimotor Psychotherapy for Children, Adolescents and Families with Dr. Bonnie Goldstein. Her current interests include groups, couples, children, adolescents, and families; complex trauma; Embedded Relational Mindfulness; implicit bias, intersectionality and culture; the relational nature of shame; presence, consciousness, and the philosophical/spiritual principles that underlie Sensorimotor Psychotherapy. --- Interview Links: — Dr Ogden's website - http://sensorimotorpsychotherapy.org/ — Dr Ogden's books - https://amzn.to/47gGd5I

Alan Graham is the founder and CEO of Mobile Loaves and Fishes, an organization he started in 1998 that has transformed the approach to homelessness in Austin, Texas. What began with a catering truck providing meals to the homeless has evolved into Community First Village—a 51-acre master-planned community that has housed over 1,000 formerly homeless individuals. In this conversation, we explore: — Alan's revolutionary definition of "home" that goes beyond physical shelter — How the catastrophic loss of family is the primary driver of homelessness — Alan’s profound spiritual experience that took him away from accumulating wealth in real estate to a life dedicated to serving those less fortunate — The importance of seeing the "Van Gogh" in every person. And more. You can learn more about Alan's work at https://mlf.org and https://mlf.org/community-first. -- Alan Graham is the founder and CEO of Mobile Loaves & Fishes and the visionary behind Community First! Village in Austin, Texas — a 51-acre master-planned community that provides housing, purpose, and connection for people emerging from chronic homelessness. A former real estate developer, Alan began his mission in 1998 by delivering meals from a truck to those living on the streets. His journey and lessons are captured in his inspiring book, Welcome Homeless: One Man’s Journey of Discovering the Meaning of Home. He believes that “housing will never solve homelessness, but community will.” -- Interview Links: — Alan’s website: https://mlf.org/community-first/ — Alan’s book: https://amzn.to/4oelN5V

Discover a transformative approach to recovery in this episode with Dr Andrew Tatarsky, PhD. Harm Reduction Psychotherapy (HRP) offers a groundbreaking alternative to traditional methods, prioritizing understanding and empathy over immediate abstinence. Driven by personal experiences, Dr. Tatarsky unveils the limitations of abstinence-only treatment. Explore the depths of addiction with a focus on deciphering intricate motivations and meanings behind behaviors. This therapeutic journey champions collaboration, respecting autonomy, and delving into personal and relational significance. Dive into the art of "urge surfing" and learn how to craft new pathways for self-care, even if total abstinence isn't the initial destination. Dr Tatarsky is an internationally recognised leader in the treatment of problematic substance use and the developer of Integrative Harm Reduction Psychotherapy. He has specialized in substance use treatment for over 35 years working as a counselor, psychologist, program director, trainer, advocate and author. Dr Tatarsky advocates for a psychobiosocial understanding of addiction and an integrative harm reduction approach to treatment. This conversation provides an accessible introduction to Harm Reduction Psychotherapy, covering things like: — The limitation of the disease model of addiction and abstinence-only based approaches — The importance of meeting clients “where they’re at” and gradually empowering their recovery process — How to use strategies such as “urge surfing” and “18 alternatives” to gradually move beyond addiction — Why it’s important to have a bio-psycho-social lens on addiction. And more. You can learn more about Dr Tatarsky’s work by going to www.andrewtatarsky.com. --- Andrew Tatarsky is an internationally recognized leader in the treatment of problematic substance use and other potentially risky behaviors. He has specialized in the field of substance use treatment for 35 years working as a counselor, psychologist, program director, trainer, advocate and author. He has devoted his career to developing a comprehensive psychobiosocial understanding of the broad spectrum of substance use problems and an integrative harm reduction psychotherapy approach to treating this spectrum. This treatment is described in his book, Harm Reduction Psychotherapy: A New Treatment for Drug and Alcohol Problems, and several professional papers that extend the approach. The book has been released in paperback and Kindle, published in Poland by the Polish Office of Drug Prevention and has been translated into Spanish and is available in a free pdf. Dr. Tatarsky is Founder and Director of the Center for Optimal Living in NYC, a treatment and professional training center based on Integrative Harm Reduction Therapy (IHRP) for the spectrum of substance misuse and other high-risk behaviors. He earned his doctorate in clinical psychology from the City University of New York and is a graduate of New York University’s Postdoctoral Program in Psychotherapy and Psychoanalysis. He is a member of the medical and clinical advisory panels to the Office of Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Services of New York State. Dr. Tatarsky is a founding member and twice past-president of the Division on Addiction of New York State Psychological Association. --- 3 Books Dr Tatarsky Recommends Every Therapist Should Read: — Practicing Harm Reduction Psychotherapy: An Alternative Approach to Addictions, Second Edition — Patt Denning & Jeannie Little - https://amzn.to/3Q2BxL6 — Over the Influence: The Harm Reduction Guide to Controlling Your Drug and Alcohol Use Second Edition — Patt Denning & Jeannie Little - https://amzn.to/3Ojmr2u — Harm Reduction Psychotherapy: A New Treatment for Drug and Alcohol Problems — Andrew Tatarsky - https://amzn.to/3O3Ge4G

George Thompson is a filmmaker, Tai Chi practitioner, and creator dedicated to inspiring balance for both people and planet. After experiencing anxiety and burnout, George embarked on a transformative journey that took him from the Wudang Mountains in China to the wilderness of Scotland. In this conversation, we explore: — Why discovering Tai Chi was a pivotal moment in his trajectory — How compassion naturally arises from true understanding — The power of investigating our thoughts and feelings as messengers of unmet needs — How to cultivate playfulness and sincerity without being serious — George's journey from atheism to panpsychism and how this shift changed his relationship with nature And more. You can learn more about George's work through his YouTube channel or his website: https://www.balanceispossible.com. --- George Thompson is a filmmaker, storyteller, and educator dedicated to making ancient wisdom practical for modern life. As the founder of Balance Is Possible!, he leads a global team sharing teachings on Tai Chi, Daoist philosophy, and the art of living in harmony with oneself and nature. After years of struggling with anxiety and disconnection, George travelled to China’s Wudang Mountains, where he studied Tai Chi and Daoism under Master Gu. There, he discovered that balance isn’t about perfection—but about learning to move with life’s natural flow. Through his courses, films, and online community, George helps people reconnect to purpose, clarity, and inner peace. His unique teaching style blends humour, emotional honesty, and spiritual insight, making profound ideas accessible and engaging. Today, George’s work reaches millions worldwide through films like The Subtle Art of Losing Yourself and the world’s largest online Tai Chi school. Supported by mentors such as Chungliang Al Huang and Deng Ming Dao, he continues to inspire others to embrace their full potential and live with compassion, creativity, and balance. -- Interview Links: — George’s website: https://www.balanceispossible.com/ — George’s recommended books: https://bit.ly/472aEh7

In this episode, I speak with Professor Guy Leschziner, a consultant neurologist and leading sleep specialist who has spent over a decade as the clinical lead at one of Europe's largest sleep disorder centers. Drawing on insights from neuroscience, clinical practice, and evolutionary biology, Guy explores the fascinating world of sleep—from its biological functions to its profound impact on our physical and mental health. Expect to learn: — Why studying the extremes of human behavior helps us understand normal brain function — How sleep affects everything from immune function to cognitive performance — The surprising way our brain's "glymphatic system" cleans toxins during deep sleep — Why insomnia treatments like CBT-I are so effective and how they work. And more. You can learn more about Guy's work at https://www.guyleschziner.com. --- Guy Leschziner, Ph.D., is a neurologist specializing in sleep disorders and epilepsy, serving as Consultant Neurologist at London Bridge Hospital and Clinical Lead for the Sleep Disorders Centre at Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospital, one of Europe’s largest sleep units. He is also Reader in Neurology at King’s College London’s Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience. Dr. Leschziner is the author of The Nocturnal Brain, The Man Who Tasted Words, and The Seven Deadly Sins, and has presented sleep-focused series for BBC Radio and Channel 4. --- Interview Links: — Guy’s website: https://www.guyleschziner.com/ — Guy’s book: https://amzn.to/3VvTnb6