The Good Question Podcast

"Anyone listening to this podcast can go psychotic; it's part of what it is to be human." As you digest this, consider what it might mean for the way we understand and perceive schizophrenia.  If your interest is piqued, delve into the depths of human experience with this thought-provoking episode, where the line between sanity and psychosis blurs. As we explore the intricacies of schizophrenia, we're joined by Will Hall, a mental health counselor, host of Madness Radio, author of Outside Mental Health: Voices and Visions of Madness, and survivor of schizophrenia. Hall's narrative unveils the complexities he faced from childhood to adulthood, including a stint in a psychiatric institute that failed to provide relief and actually exacerbated the issue. However, through organizations and efforts like the Hearing Voices Movement and Mad in America, he found a community advocating for alternatives to conventional treatments, sparking his journey into advocacy, activism, and counseling. Press play to uncover: The contrasting paradigms of conventional and alternative approaches to schizophrenia, and when the former may worsen rather than alleviate symptoms The dynamics of power struggles between individuals suspected of schizophrenia and their loved ones, as well as strategies for fostering empathetic and meaningful dialogue The significance of recognizing individual differences in mental health treatment and the role of alternative movements in reshaping our approach Don't miss out on this eye-opening and important conversation—tune in now. For more resources on these topics, visit: About | Will Hall, MA, DiplPW Mad in America - Science, Psychiatry and Social Justice Home - Hearing Voices Network USA (hearingvoicesusa.org) Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr

Join us today for an enlightening conversation with our distinguished guests, Marc Brettler and Amy-Jill Levine (“AJ”), authors of The Jewish Annotated New Testament. They delve into a wealth of knowledge spanning Rabbinic literature, the Hebrew language, religious traditions, the New Testament, and the complexities of antisemitism. Press play to uncover: Insights into Rabbinic literature and its pivotal role in Jewish identity formation, bridging the gap between the Old and New Testaments The linguistic influences shaping the Hebrew language and its evolution over time Diverse perspectives among Jewish communities regarding the New Testament and its significance Examinations of antisemitic interpretations within Christian teachings and sermons   Marc Brettler is a member of the American Academy for Jewish Research and the Council of the Society of Biblical Literature and is the Bernice and Morton Lerner Professor of Jewish Studies in the Department of Religious Studies at Duke University. The Dora Golding Professor of Biblical Studies Emeritus and former chair of the Department of Near Eastern and Judaic Studies at Brandeis University, he has also taught at Yale University, Brown University, Wellesley College, and Middlebury College. (See full biography here: Marc Zvi Brettler | Religious Studies (duke.edu.) Amy-Jill Levine (“AJ”) is the Rabbi Stanley M. Kessler Distinguished Professor of New Testament and Jewish Studies at Hartford International University for Religion and Peace. (See full biography here: Amy-Jill Levine | Hartford International University.) Don’t miss this engaging discussion with two leading voices in religious studies. Tune in now and find Brettler’s and Levine’s book, The Jewish Annotated New Testament. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr

Most of us deal with some level of social anxiety, but some of us are overwhelmed by it—to the point that it impacts our opportunities, relationships, and day-to-day life. Join us as we talk with Kyle Mitchell, TedX speaker, accomplished author, and visionary founder of Social Anxiety Kyle. Kyle intimately understands the challenges of navigating high school plagued by anxiety, yet in college, he embarked on a quest to find freedom from its grip. Reflecting on his own struggles, he extends a lifeline to his younger self and all adolescents and teens battling social anxiety. In today's world, the pervasive nature of social anxiety in young people is underestimated. As troubled students confide in him, seeking support in the face of parental dismissal, Kyle offers relatable firsthand experiences, compassion, and empathy. In this enlightening podcast, discover: The formidable social pressures faced by today's youth Information overload—how does it contribute to anxiety in young people? Kyle's innovative activities and workshops tailored for youth, aimed at gradual exposure to public speaking, self-confidence, and stepping out of comfort zones The importance of cultivating a fresh mindset in overcoming social anxiety and embracing authenticity Tune in now for the full conversation and learn more about Kyle's work at Social Anxiety Kyle. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr

Today, we're joined by Matthew Moody, President of Mental Health America of Arizona, an education and advocacy organization with chapters nationwide. With a background as a licensed counselor in Arizona, Moody brings extensive experience in mental health, having previously served at one of the largest suicide prevention hotlines. He has also collaborated with law enforcement agencies in both the United States and Canada, assisting them in understanding how to effectively engage with crisis lines to ensure appropriate responses to emergency calls. Join us to explore: Moody's firsthand insights from handling over 30,000 calls on one of the largest suicide prevention hotlines, focusing on key aspects of de-escalation and creating a supportive environment over the phone The nuanced definition of a mental health "crisis" The pervasive stigma surrounding schizophrenia and psychosis and its profound impact on the ability to seek and receive the necessary support Strategies for communicating with individuals who are in the midst of psychosis   The diverse spectrum of auditory hallucinations experienced by individuals with schizophrenia, ranging from mundane sounds to distressing voices Don't miss this opportunity to get a glimpse of what it means to work on the frontlines of mental health advocacy and crisis intervention. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call 988 – an alternative to 911 for mental health emergencies. Learn more about support groups at Home | NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness. For more information on Moody’s organization, visit SEEDS Conference | mysite (mhaarizona.org).

Join us for an engaging conversation with returning guest John C. A. Manley, the brilliant mind behind the Blazing Pine Cone Newsletter and the captivating book Much Ado About Corona: A Dystopian Love Story. In this episode, Manley explores the intricacies of his latest literary work, sharing insights into his research process and the fascinating experiences of nurses during the pandemic. He also shares insights into the broader realm of writing, the power of email communication, and the art of crafting daily messages that resonate with readers. Tune in to learn: What Manley learned doing research for Much Ado About Corona: A Dystopian Love Story, including the experience of nurses who felt like “a part of their brain was split” between what the authorities were telling them and what they were seeing Tips for sending interesting daily emails and how to deal with a mix of positive and negative responses The importance of having a personal philosophy behind the email content you put out The biggest obstacle to selling novels and the benefit of offering multiple formats for the same content (e.g., audio, video, written) Press play to hear the entire conversation, and visit BlazingPineCone.com: The Speculative Fiction and Thoughts of John C. A. Manley to subscribe to the Blazing Cone Newsletter and check out Manley’s books. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr

Explore whether the COVID-19 situation could have been managed more effectively in the US with Swedish biostatistician and former Harvard University professor of medicine Martin Kulldorff. Delve into this critical and eye-opening discussion to discover: The data highlighting COVID-19 as a disease affecting almost exclusively elderly adults and how this data should have informed our approach to the situation Potential links between pharmaceutical funding and the media's handling of the COVID-19 situation, including issues of online censorship The difference between approaches taken by Sweden and the US in managing COVID-19 The findings of two randomized trials on the efficacy of cloth and surgical masks in reducing transmission of COVID-19 Design flaws in COVID-19 vaccine trials, the resulting misconceptions, and adverse side effects of the vaccine (e.g., myocarditis) Tune in to broaden your understanding of this complex issue. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr

Explore a fascinating conversation at the intriguing crossroads of medicine and art with Dr. Michael Marmor, MD, Emeritus Professor of Ophthalmology at Stanford Medicine and author of The Artistic Eye. You’ll explore: The intricate process of how humans interpret and perceive colors What Dr. Marmor means by “we begin to think about what we see in our eye” The difference between visual perception and the nature of the information transmitted to the brain Remarkable implications for art and artists stemming from the complexity of vision, including the intriguing fact that while the eye boasts 126 million photoreceptors, only 1 million nerve fibers connect to the brain via the optic nerve. How cataract progresses over time and its profound impact on the artwork of Monet Join us for an enlightening exploration of the intricacies of vision and its eye-opening intersections with the world of art. Tune in for more, and check out Dr. Marmor’s book, The Artistic Eye. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr

In today’s episode, we explore the aftermath of tragic events and the pivotal role of cleanup with Thomas Licker, President of the American Bio Recovery Association. He shares his journey into this unique and often overlooked field. Despite its challenges, Licker has found fulfillment in helping families navigate the aftermath of loss, sparing them from further distress by having to be involved in the cleanup process. From his early days addressing national priority sites to responding to hazardous incidents, Licker's passion for this work has only grown stronger. Tune in as he shares insights into this profoundly meaningful profession. You’ll learn: Protocols for safeguarding workers from hazards during remediation Anecdotes highlighting Licker's firsthand encounters Insights into Licker's discovery of this specialized field and his transformative journey within it Press play to hear the full conversation and visit American Bio Recovery Association for more information. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr

What would you do if everyone around you insisted that significant parts of your life were mere illusions, urging you to seek help while you adamantly believed otherwise? Such a scenario often leads to refusal of treatment, profound confusion, and a sense of isolation. This phenomenon has a name: anosognosia. It's a symptom that affects individuals with certain neurological conditions and around 50% of people with schizophrenia. Today, we're joined by two esteemed guests: Dr. Xavier Amador, clinical psychologist and Founder of LEAP INSTITUTE, and Janet Hays, Founder and Director of Healing Minds NOLA. Together, they delve into their experiences working with individuals grappling with schizophrenia and share information about schizophrenia in general, including risk factors, prevalence, and potential new treatments on the horizon. Tune in as we explore: Effective communication strategies for friends and family members dealing with a loved one who likely has schizophrenia but remains unaware (Dr. Amador shares a deeply personal story on this topic) The systemic barriers hindering access to schizophrenia treatment, resulting in worsened, potentially irreversible deterioration (and what we need to do about it!) Key risk factors for the development of schizophrenia during fetal development and early childhood Distinguishing between drug-induced psychosis and psychosis stemming from schizophrenia and the challenges in making this differentiation Understanding the mechanism and potential of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) as an alternative treatment for schizophrenia Don't miss this crucial episode as we delve into vital insights that can transform our understanding of and approach to schizophrenia. If you need help getting your loved one into treatment, check out Dr. Amador's book, I Am Not Sick, I Don't Need Help! How to Help Someone Accept Treatment. For more resources and information, visit: Home | Treatment Advocacy Center About Dr. Amador- LEAP Institute- Shaping Mental Health Care Untreated Serious Mental Illness & Policy Reform New Orleans (healingmindsnola.org) Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr

Meet Stephanie Moyal, the innovative co-founder behind Troop Nutrition, a pioneering company specializing in functional mushrooms known for their myriad health benefits. Stephanie's journey into the world of functional mushrooms was transformative. Upon discovering these powerful fungi, she was captivated by their potential to revolutionize health and wellness, uncovering a hidden realm of nature that few were discussing. Together with her cousin, Jake Mellman, Stephanie embarked on a mission to harness the incredible benefits of mushrooms. Their passion for mushrooms intensified with lion's mane cultivation as they delved deeper into their remarkable properties. Experimenting with mushroom gummies and sharing them with friends and family yielded overwhelmingly positive feedback, leading them to embark on a new venture: Troop Nutrition was born. Join us as we delve into Stephanie and Jake's journey, uncovering: The secret behind Troop Nutrition's exceptionally potent mushroom products, setting them apart from others on the market Insights into the different parts of mushrooms and where to find the most bioavailable compounds A deep dive into cordyceps mushrooms, known for their unique properties (including their ability to improve sexual wellness) The evolving landscape of the mushroom industry and what's to come Don't miss this enlightening episode, and explore Troop Nutrition products at Home – Troop (trytroop.com).

Food is more than just sustenance; it's a powerful communicator that directs our body's functions and guides our way of life. This sentiment is central to Nikki Burnett's work as a functional nutritionist and Founder & CEO of Taste of Life. Her journey into functional nutrition stemmed from a profound realization: confusion is pervasive about what constitutes healthy eating and the "right choices." Burnett decided to immerse herself in the study of nutrition, driven by a desire to empower others with knowledge. With a focus on nutrition for fertility and pregnancy, Burnett unveils enlightening insights on today's episode. Tune in to discover: The pivotal role of epigenetics in shaping our health and that of future generations How proactive preparation, beginning at least four months before conception, can eliminate common frustrations associated with fertility and pregnancy Nutritional guidance for individuals grappling with autoimmune conditions Insights into the profound impact of mental well-being and stress levels on physical health, along with strategies for improvement What to anticipate during the initial month of dietary transformation and how to stay motivated by focusing on the long-term benefits Interested in learning more? Listen to the full conversation and visit Nutritionist Denver CO | Taste Life Nutrition. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr

Tobias Schulze joins us today to discuss his work as a clinical psychologist and mental health expert. As the Director of Talking Cure Mental Health Services, he specializes in complex trauma and personality disorders – with a specific interest in narcissistic presentations and self-worth regulation. Tobias has a deep passion for helping people manage complex psychological issues, recurrent mental health problems, and failed prior treatments. Taking a holistic approach to his practice, he aims to treat the deeper layers and core causes of mental illness in order to achieve sustainable outcomes.  From Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to Schema Therapy, Tobias works from a modern psychodynamic perspective to fulfill one central goal: treating his clients as human beings… In this episode, we dive into: Ideas Tobias had to unlearn when he started working in psychology.  The value of “trying out” new things in therapy. Where the intersection of trauma and personality lies.  The two elements of personality disorders.  To learn more about Tobias and Talking Cure, click here now! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr

Meet Dr. Elisabeth O'Rourke, a licensed clinical psychologist and the clinic director at MindWell Psychology, LLP. She specializes in aiding children and adolescents grappling with mental health challenges across New York State. After earning her undergraduate degree, she dedicated years to a residential program, orchestrating short-term stabilization for children in acute psychiatric crises and addressing issues spanning from self-harm to runaway behavior. Currently thriving in a group practice, Dr. O'Rourke's focus extends to individuals contending with an array of mental health afflictions, particularly anxiety, depression, OCD, tics and Tourette’s, ADHD, and trauma. Tune in to unravel: The intricate interplay between uncertainty, loss of control, and anxiety, exacerbated by today’s world The negative impact and positive influence of social media on the mental well-being of today's youth Strategies tailored to alleviate anxiety in teenagers versus older adults The many surprising ways self-harm can manifest How depression is reinforced by anxiety, creating a detrimental loop Press play to embark on an important exploration of the nuances of mental health in children and adolescents with Dr. Elisabeth O'Rourke. Learn more at Elisabeth O'Rourke, PhD — MindWell Psychology - Evidence Based Mental Health Care (mindwellcenter.com). Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr

Slow Dancing with the Devil: A Son's Substance Use Disorder, A Mother's Anguish is a stirring account of a mother's journey alongside her son through the depths of substance abuse. From his initial dependency on narcotics, stemming from multiple prescriptions of oxycodone, to surviving a harrowing 1% chance of survival after a near-fatal car crash in 2010, their story is one of resilience in the face of unimaginable odds. Today, the author and mother, Susan Bartz Herrick, joins us. Over the years, her son endured a litany of medical challenges, including multiple hospitalizations, surgeries, and intestinal blockages, all while grappling with the ongoing necessity of narcotics for pain management. Yet, amidst the medical turmoil, Susan uncovered a stark reality: the medical community's lack of understanding in treating individuals with narcotic dependencies, particularly concerning anesthesia for surgery. Compounded by stringent regulations limiting access to crucial medications like suboxone, their journey sheds light on the systemic barriers individuals face in accessing comprehensive addiction treatment. Herrick shares insight into the enduring nature of substance use disorder, challenging prevailing notions of a "cure" and confronting the pervasive stigma that surrounds those afflicted. Tune in to uncover: Why there's no such thing as becoming totally "cured" from substance use disorder The cultural image of people with substance use disorders and how stigma affects the people who are afflicted by substance use disorder The 1200% increase in overdose deaths in the past 24 years – why is this happening, and why aren't we talking about it more? The process of how one becomes addicted to a substance and undergoes tremendously painful withdrawals The treatment of addiction in US culture compared to other medical conditions like heart disease The role of sugar, diet, and exercise in recovering from substance abuse and addiction Take advantage of this moving conversation. Press play now, and join Herrick's efforts by reading her book Slow Dancing with the Devil: A Son's Substance Use Disorder, A Mother's Anguish. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr

Jonathan Peake, a senior research fellow at The University of Queensland and a dedicated athlete with a PhD in exercise physiology, delves into the intersection of exercise, the immune system, and stress. Having focused on exercise recovery strategies over the past 5+ years, particularly cold water immersion, Peake explores its benefits for athletes and the intricacies involved. Tune in to uncover: How researchers and practitioners determine the optimal temperature for post-exercise recovery The primary objectives of cold water immersion for athletes: reducing swelling, alleviating delayed onset muscle soreness, and mitigating inflammation The potential for cold water immersion to induce relaxation by influencing the parasympathetic nervous system The pitfalls of pre-workout cold water immersion and the ideal waiting period post-exercise Eager to delve deeper? Tune in to discover more and check out QUT - Academic profiles - Dr Jonathan Peake. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr

In some U.S. states, more than 50% of the population is obese. This signals a severe public health issue, especially since obesity carries significant physical and psychological risks and lowers life expectancy. Even young kids are affected by obesity at unprecedented rates. Why is this happening? Does it really come down to a lack of determination to eat better? Or could the foods themselves be addictive, just like alcohol and other drugs? Could we take it a step further and say that certain substances—sugar in particular—actually ARE drugs? Nicole Avena is a neuroscientist and consultant on nutrition, diet, and food addiction. She’s also the author of Sugarless: A 7-Step Plan to Uncover Hidden Sugars, Curb Your Cravings, and Conquer Your Addiction, which zeroes in on what sugar is, where it hides in our everyday food and drink, how it affects people’s health, and how to reduce sugar intake to improve wellbeing and longevity. Press play to explore: Communication between the gut microbiome and brain: how it encourages sugar and food addiction An evolutionary explanation for why we crave sugar (hint: sugar equals safety) How the “fat is bad” fad in the early 90s might have catalyzed a societal sugar addiction What it feels like to have sugar withdrawal symptoms How “sensory-specific satiety” is used by companies to profit at the expense of people’s health Don’t miss this important podcast.  Tune in now and visit Dr Nicole Avena - Official Website to learn more. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr

In today’s episode, we dive into the fascinating realm of uncertainty with acclaimed author Maggie Jackson, whose latest book, Uncertain: The Wisdom and Wonder of Being Unsure, explores the profound implications of uncertainty in our lives. With a background in journalism as a foreign correspondent, Jackson brings a unique perspective to the table as she discusses the intersection of uncertainty, technology, and work-life balance. She reflects on her journey, having penned one of the pioneering work-life balance columns in the US, which coincided with the social trend of reevaluating our relationship with work. Tune in to learn: Whether multitasking is actually something we should be promoting and celebrating or something with short and long-term detrimental effects on memory, attention, and cognition. How uncertainty can act as a catalyst for problem-solving, agility, and creativity—a concept Jackson aptly terms "wisdom in motion." The connection between daydreaming and executive functions of the brain, success, and planning. Press play to embark on a thought-provoking journey into uncertainty, uncovering the wisdom and wonder that lie within the space between questions and answers. Learn more at Maggie Jackson (maggie-jackson.com). Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr

Join Dr. Peter Crockford, a professor in Carleton University’s Department of Earth Sciences, in this discussion about his groundbreaking work, and learn how he discovered the telling relation between signatures in rocks billions of years old, the likely rate of production (e.g., oxygen release from ancient microorganisms) at specific times in the history of the biosphere, and how much life has ever existed on the planet. Tune in for this fascinating conversation and discover: Roughly how many cells are on the planet today, where is the majority of them located, and the rate of cell turnover. Whether we can determine how much life will ever exist on Earth… or even the next 1,000 years. The relationship between glaciation and cellular productivity in the biosphere. The possibility of engineering the planet to be at a certain temperature, retain a certain amount of CO2, and more. Don't miss out on this captivating discussion. Press play and visit Peter W. Crockford, PhD (petercrockford.rocks) to learn more. Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr

In this episode, we dive into a fascinating science-spiritual story presenting a futuristic America where science rules everything. Written by Mark Springer, Flesh Becomes Words is a striking novel that centers around the nature of science, soul, and spirit. What happens in a society where Christianity is outlawed and human DNA is tampered with? Mark sits down to give us a sneak peek… Mark is a science and technology writer and editor living in the San Francisco Bay Area with more than 30 years of experience – primarily in the biotechnology industry. He studied English and Cell Biology at UC Berkeley, and has written many articles for life science trade magazines based on interviews with research scientists. Join us now to discover: How the concept of genomics is introduced in Flesh Becomes Words. The conversations that Flesh Becomes Words is meant to evoke.  The parallels that Mark draws between human DNA and words.  How to reconcile science and faith.  You can pick up a copy of Flesh Becomes Words for yourself here! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr

Fear is a scary topic, especially considering how it can permeate our society. How do people’s fears dictate their worldview? Is there data out there that can tell us more about this under-explored subject? In this episode, we dive into the science of fear with Dr. Christopher D. Bader, a sociologist with decades of experience in his field… Dr. Bader is a Professor of Sociology at Chapman University and an affiliate of the Institute for Religion, Economics, and Society (IRES). He is the author of two books, America's Four Gods and Paranormal America – and has published various articles and chapters in sociology, deviance, criminology, sociology of religion, and education. Dr. Bader has studied paranormal beliefs for over twenty years, ranging from UFOs and ghosts to bigfoot. What do these phenomena have to do with people’s relationships to fear? Jump in now to see for yourself! In this conversation, we cover: The role that survey data plays in the preservation of religious history.  The power of fear and the effects it has on society.  The most prominent fears that Americans have according to surveys.  Why fear should be studied better.  You can learn more about Dr. Bader here! Episode also available on Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/38oMlMr