Fools and Sages Podcast

Welcome to the Fools and Sages Podcast, where deep conversations intersect with practical wisdom. Hosted by Brian Lee and Boaz Soifer, this show invites listeners into thought-provoking conversations that illuminate the transformative insights Boaz gained from nearly three decades of dialogue with Brian.

Episode #16: On Community

In this episode of the Fools and Sages podcast Boaz and Brian discuss community, expanding on the interdependence model discussed in previous episodes. They touch on the dynamics of intentional communities, the challenges of building connections in urban settings, the importance of collective self-awareness, and more. The conversation also turns to postmodernism, emphasizing the role of community in joining wisdom and knowledge, and highlighting the potential for connection that can arise in times of change. 

12-19
56:19

Episode #15: Lessons of the American West

In the 15th episode of the Fools and Sages podcast, Brian and Boaz use Wallace Stegner as an entry point into the American West; discussing the impact of nature on personal identity, the significance of the American West, and the cultural intersections that shape our understanding of the environment. The Fools touch on community, support systems, interdependence within communities, the contrasting dynamics of urban and rural life, and more. 

12-12
01:02:55

Episode #14: Faggin, Reality, and Responsibility

In this episode of the Fools and Sages podcast hosts Brian and Boaz discuss Federico Faggin and his philosophy in order to uncover the role of responsibility in relation to the nature of reality. They touch on the complexities of epistemology, the importance of taking responsibility for one's actions as a pathway to self-awareness, the implications of dualistic philosophy, and more.

12-05
54:53

Episode #13: Integrating Trauma

In this episode of the Fools and Sages Podcast Brian and Boaz discuss a listener's question: how do we integrate trauma? The conversation touches on generational trauma, the Internal Family Systems (IFS), the importance of self-forgiveness and self-acceptance, and more. The Fools provide context as to the nature of trauma and discuss how it affects our perceptions, personal growth, and organic journey.

11-26
59:12

Episode #12: Interdependence

In this episode of the Fools and Sages podcast, Boaz and Brian discuss dependence, independence, and interdependence, exploring how these concepts relate to human development and relationships. They discuss the complexities of maturation, the challenges of compulsive self-reliance, and the importance of understanding one's position on the continuum of these states. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-awareness and the role of relationships in achieving a balanced state of interdependence.

11-21
01:03:15

Episode #11: Post-Election Review Feat. Rich Rubino

In this episode of the Fools and Sages podcast, Rich Rubino returns to break down the results of the recent election, offering a historical perspective on key factors like identity politics, demographic shifts, and the influence of money in politics. They explore the impact of Donald Trump on the GOP, the rise of new Democratic leaders, and the future of the political landscape, including potential Supreme Court nominations and Trump's second term. With insights into the role of technology, political messaging, and the evolving representation of the working class, this conversation provides a deep dive into America’s shifting political dynamics.

11-14
01:39:03

Episode #10: Tiger Dragon Makes Luck

In the tenth episode of the Fools and Sages podcast, hosts Brian and Boaz discuss the frameworks that show up around how we contextualize paradox, and find ways forward. They discuss the importance of integrating different models of understanding to navigate life, in particular Tiger and Dragon, in both personal and societal contexts. The Fools touch on martial arts, gratitude and appreciation, the Five Elements, and more. 

11-11
01:07:32

Episode #9: 2024 Election Special feat. Rich Rubino

In this special, long format episode of the Fools and Sages podcast, hosts Boaz and Brian talk with political historian Rich Rubino about the historical significance of the 2024 presidential election. They discuss the context of American political ideologies, shifts in party dynamics, and the influence of media on political awareness. Rubino addresses the challenges of political gridlock, the evolving roles of voters and parties, and issues like economic nationalism and immigration. The conversation also touches on election integrity and the future of both major parties in a changing political landscape.

11-04
02:54:58

Episode #8: Cleaning Up and Waking Up

In the eighth episode of the Fools in Sages podcast, Boaz and Brian discuss self-discovery, responsibility, and the journey of personal growth. They explore the impact of past mistakes, the complexities of consciousness, and the significance of spiritual awakening. The conversation also covers themes like original sin, the role of Gnostic texts, and the balance between personal responsibility and the search for deeper awareness.

10-31
01:08:43

Episode #7: On Suffering

In this episode of the Fools and Sages podcast, Boaz and Brian delve into the complexities of suffering, compassion, and personal power in the context of current events, particularly reflecting on the ongoing conflict in Israel. They explore the struggle to maintain compassion, the transformative nature of suffering, and the responsibilities of leadership. The conversation also touches on the cultivation of personal power and the journey of self-discovery, emphasizing the importance of empathy and the interconnectedness of human experiences.

10-23
01:08:06

Episode #6: On Prayer

In the sixth episode of the Fools and Sages podcast, Boaz and Brian explore the themes of prayer, collective action, and touch on the nature of suffering. The conversation delves into the historical context of collective action, the interconnectedness of suffering, and the importance of balancing prayer with action in the world. They also mention the mysteries of identity and consciousness, emphasizing the need for a deeper relationship with the universe and the potential for human enlightenment.

10-23
01:07:43

Episode #5: Podcasting and the Creative Process

In this episode of the Fools and Sages podcast, Brian and Boaz delve into the intricacies of the creative process; exploring how feedback influences creativity, the distinction between artistic and generic creative processes, and the importance of focusing on the process rather than the product. They discuss the interplay between imagination and reality, the role of listening in dialogue, and how media shapes our experiences. The conversation emphasizes the journey of self-discovery through creativity and the collective nature of artistic expression.

10-23
01:03:38

Episode #4: On Violence

In the fourth episode of the Fools and Sages Podcast, Boaz and Brian explore the relationship between violence, morality, and consciousness. They discuss the balance of yin and yang, the nature of conflict, and briefly, grief. The conversation delves into the morality of violence, the role of consciousness in understanding and responding to conflict, and the potential for compassion and connection in the face of suffering.

10-23
58:41

Episode #3: The Universe is a Place out of Which You Cannot Fall

In this episode of the Fools and Sages podcast, Boaz and Brian explore profound themes surrounding the nature of existence, the transition of seasons, and the philosophical implications of Memento Mori. They delve into the interconnectedness of all beings, the fear of death, and how cultural influences shape our identities. The conversation also touches on the concepts of attraction, aversion, and bewilderment, and concludes with a reflection on the quest for meaning in modern life. 

10-23
01:04:37

Episode #2: "Yin Will" and "Yang Will"

In this episode of the Fools in Sages podcast, Boaz and Brian delve into the concepts of Yin Will and Yang Will, exploring the balance between allowing things to emerge and exerting one's will. They discuss the implications of destiny, the mechanistic universe versus consciousness, and how shamanisms come to understand and play a role in these dynamics. The conversation also touches on identity, collective karma, and the evolution of worldviews, emphasizing the importance of integrating various perspectives to navigate the complexities of life. 

10-23
01:04:12

Episode #1: The Semantic World

 In the first official episode of the Fools and Sages Podcast, Brian and Boaz delve into the concept of the semantic universe, or the semantic world, exploring the distinction between subjective and objective realities. They discuss how language shapes our perceptions and the implications of cultural influences on our understanding of reality. The conversation also touches on the role of the body in navigating these realms, particularly in the context of shamanism. Throughout the discussion they emphasize the importance of recognizing the limitations of language and the need for an open approach to understanding our experiences.

10-23
01:10:04

Demo #3: Chapters and Transitions

In the third and final demo of the Fools and Sages Podcast, Boaz and Brian discuss Chapters, a broad and complex topic about movement and change that leads them through many transitions in their conversation.

09-25
59:41

Demo #2: That Which Obstructs Your Path

In the second demo of the Fools and Sages Podcast, Boaz and Brian discuss the phrase "that which obstructs your path, is your path."

09-25
01:06:19

Demo #1: A Hole in the Armor

Brian and Boaz preview the Fools and Sages podcast with a demo discussion of one of Brian's commonly used sayings, inspired by Buddhist Sutra, "it doesn't matter where the arrow came from, what matters is which hole it came through."

09-25
40:43

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