Live Well and Flourish

When life threw its harshest curveballs at me, from health crises to the heart-wrenching loss of those closest to my heart, I found myself grappling with the very philosophies I've long championed. In this intimate sharing, I peel back the layers of my journey, revealing how the wisdom of Stoicism, Christianity, Buddhism, and Aristotelian virtue unexpectedly became my lifeline in the storm. We all encounter rough patches, but it's the principles we've woven into the fabric of our lives that hold us together when we're fraying at the edges. This episode is a testament not only to struggle but to the surprising resilience that comes with a foundation built on reason and virtue.As I look back on this tumultuous period, I dissect four potent concepts from various philosophies that fortified my perseverance. It's a deep examination into how maintaining our character and virtue in the face of adversity isn't just a lofty ideal, but a practical strategy that can illuminate our darkest days. By sharing my story, I hope to offer not just a mirror reflecting my own experiences but a window into discovering your own unyielding strength and the power of inherent goodness to radiate even when the lights go out. Join me as we ponder the importance of these philosophical tools, and how they can help us not just to endure but to emerge gracefully from the trials we face.------Live Well and Flourish website: https://www.livewellandflourish.com/ The theme music for Live Well and Flourish was written by Hazel Crossler, hazel.crossler@gmail.com. Production assistant - Paul Robert

Ever find yourself inexplicably tense, fatigued, or on edge, as if your body is sounding an alarm? Your instincts aren't wrong; it's the distress signal of allostatic overload—the crux of our latest Live Well and Flourish discussion. Join me, Craig Van Slyke, as we unearth the buried mechanisms of stress and its staggering toll on our health. The journey from understanding stress to mastering its effects requires patience, insight, and the right tools. We navigate through the nuances of episodic versus chronic stress and how the latter can lead to a state of incessant irritability and exhaustion. Recognizing the signs and implementing strategies to mitigate stress are paramount, and I offer actionable advice to help you lighten your allostatic load. By the end of our discussion, you'll not only grasp the significance of allostatic load but also be equipped to tackle it head-on. Embrace this opportunity to recalibrate your life and thrive, because when it comes to stress, knowledge truly is power.The Ask Ralph Podcasthttps://www.askralphpodcast.com/Episodes mentioned:Stress trifecta:  https://www.livewellandflourish.com/stress-trifecta-uncertainty-isolation-and-overload/Power of small things: https://www.livewellandflourish.com/the-power-of-small-things-the-small-wins-strategy-of-change/------Live Well and Flourish website: https://www.livewellandflourish.com/ The theme music for Live Well and Flourish was written by Hazel Crossler, hazel.crossler@gmail.com. Production assistant - Paul Robert

Navigating the delicate interplay of intelligence and wisdom can be as complex as it is profound. Today's journey begins with a glimpse into a personal loss—a story of my beloved dog, Maggie—which opens the door to a much larger conversation. We tackle the misconceptions surrounding intelligence, often mistaken for wisdom, and explore how various types of smarts, whether it’s bookish intellect or street savvy, don't inherently lead to wise decisions. This episode peels back the layers of what it truly means to be wise, contrasting it with the raw power of intelligence through real-life anecdotes that demonstrate the perilous gaps where knowledge alone falls short.As we shift toward a vision of living a good life, we draw inspiration from the timeless wisdom of Maya Angelou, whose insights remain a beacon for personal growth. The focus turns to the transformative power of knowledge and the personal commitment to use it for leading a fulfilling life, free from commercial pressures. Listeners are encouraged to not just absorb but share the wisdom gleaned today, as we conclude with a guiding light toward resources that support a journey of flourishing. Join in for a heartfelt conversation that promises to leave you with more than just food for thought—it's an invitation to grow, share, and ultimately, live well.------Live Well and Flourish website: https://www.livewellandflourish.com/ The theme music for Live Well and Flourish was written by Hazel Crossler, hazel.crossler@gmail.com. Production assistant - Paul Robert

Discover seven powerful maxims that can redefine your approach to life and unlock a more fulfilling existence. As I, Craig Van Slyke, reflect on the journey of Live Well and Flourish, I'm proud to share the wisdom that has not only shaped this podcast but also my personal path to flourishing. This centennial celebration is more than a milestone—it's a testament to the transformative power of combining philosophy and psychology to navigate life's ups and downs.  Whether you're a long-time listener or new to our community, this episode is imbued with thoughtful reflections and actionable advice designed to guide you on your own journey to a life well-lived.Episodes mentioned:45 - https://www.livewellandflourish.com/comfort-is-the-enemy-five-minute-flourishing/23 - https://www.livewellandflourish.com/living-a-life-of-purpose/------Live Well and Flourish website: https://www.livewellandflourish.com/ The theme music for Live Well and Flourish was written by Hazel Crossler, hazel.crossler@gmail.com. Production assistant - Paul Robert

Reflecting on the profound legacy left by my late wife, Debbie, I was reminded of the incredible impact one individual's goodness can have. In our latest heart-to-heart podcast episode, I delve into the essence of what it means to be good, exploring the internal characteristics and external behaviors that embody a life led by virtue and reason. From personal anecdotes to the wisdom of ancient philosophers, we navigate the pursuit of personal betterment and its significance in our lives and the communities we are part of.Capturing the essence of Marcus Aurelius's wisdom, this conversation goes beyond mere talk, urging you to take action and live out the virtues we discuss. As I guide you through ten introspective questions designed to assess your own path to goodness, you’ll discover the rewards of living with integrity—increased satisfaction, stronger relationships, resilience in adversity, and an enduring legacy. Join me in this exploration of flourishing, untethered by sponsorships or financial motivations, as we seek to elevate the human experience together.Ten questions: In what ways did I practice self-reflection and mindfulness today and how has this influenced my thoughts and actions?How did I demonstrate (or fail to demonstrate) empathy and compassion in my daily interactions with others? How well did my actions and decisions today reflect my core values and the virtues I seek?What new ideas and possible adjustments to my assumptions or beliefs did I consider today?How well have my actions reflected my true self and my core beliefs and virtues?What were the moments today when I consciously decided to act according to my virtues, and how did I navigate situations in which my virtues were challenged?How well did my actions demonstrate responsibility and reliability today?In what specific ways did I practice kindness or generosity today without expecting anything in return? How did I stand up for justice and fairness today? How did I contribute to the well-being and harmony of my community today and what were the effects of these actions?------Live Well and Flourish website: https://www.livewellandflourish.com/ The theme music for Live Well and Flourish was written by Hazel Crossler, hazel.crossler@gmail.com. Production assistant - Paul Robert

Have you ever faced a setback and wondered how it could possibly lead to success? Let me, Craig Van Slyke, reveal to you the transformative power of the 3A's method: Acceptance, Analysis, and Adjustment, in the latest episode of Live Well and Flourish. We'll unravel the intricate relationship between failure and success, and I'll share my own experiences to show you that failure isn't the end road—it's a critical part of the journey towards achieving your dreams.This conversation will reframe your perception of setbacks, equipping you with the mindset needed for resilience and learning. We explore how embracing failure is not just beneficial, but essential for personal growth and accomplishment. Forget what you've been told about failure being a negative outcome; it's time to see it as a stepping stone to greatness. And for those still on the hunt for their purpose, I'll give you a nudge back to episode 23 for an extra dose of inspiration. Let's break the cycle of fear and disappointment—join me and learn how to make every stumble count on your path to success.------Live Well and Flourish website: https://www.livewellandflourish.com/ The theme music for Live Well and Flourish was written by Hazel Crossler, hazel.crossler@gmail.com. Production assistant - Paul Robert

Are you steering your life with conviction, or are you waiting for someone else to hand you the reins? Join me, Craig Van Slyke, as we unpack the concept of personal agency and its transformative impact on life. Life's complexities often leave us second-guessing our abilities, yearning for permission, and fearing risks. But here, we challenge these barriers head-on. Craig discuses the critical role of personal agency in leading a life of flourishing, not just existing. Grasp the virtue of practical wisdom, or phronesis, and learn how to harness it to act with integrity and contribute positively to the world around you.Feel empowered as Craig explores the necessity of recognizing opportunities for positive action, no matter how constrained the circumstances may seem. This episode is about igniting the spark of agency within you, without handing over new practices. Instead, we trust in the insights already shared to guide you. With a nod to Epictetus, he reminds you that although living under constraint is unjust, accepting such a life is not obligatory. This conversation is an invitation to seize the freedom that beckons, armed with the knowledge that you are an adult with the power to carve out your own path to liberty.------Live Well and Flourish website: https://www.livewellandflourish.com/ The theme music for Live Well and Flourish was written by Hazel Crossler, hazel.crossler@gmail.com. Production assistant - Paul Robert

Ever pondered on the potency of tiny pledges of bravery? The promise is simple - small, consistent acts of courage can transform your life, leading to personal growth and ethical evolution. Dare to diverge from the traditional concept of courage being linked only to physical bravery, and unearth a new perspective of courage - the audacity to live a life of virtue and reason. Discover how these minor, but pivotal acts of bravery can nourish the development of moral fiber, lead to societal benefits, and open the gateway to an extraordinary life.Encompassing the wisdom of stoicism, we journey through teachings from the likes of the great Marcus Aurelius, illuminating how your personal advancement impacts not just you, but the environment around you. With no hidden agendas or sponsorships, we purely aim to inspire and aid you in your quest towards a fulfilling life. Embrace the philosophy, "Good for the Hive is Good for the Bee," understanding the critical role you play in contributing to the common good. So, let's kick-start this adventure filled with courage, virtue, and wisdom, and witness how these elements intertwine to create a life that flourishes. Share this podcast with those who might find strength in its message and together, let's enable the power of courage.------Live Well and Flourish website: https://www.livewellandflourish.com/ The theme music for Live Well and Flourish was written by Hazel Crossler, hazel.crossler@gmail.com. Production assistant - Paul Robert

Embrace a unique lens to view the power of special days. Tune in and find out how celebrating holidays and special days can enhance our lives, not just religiously, but also through fostering community, self-reflection, and personal renewal. While the joy of gathering and sharing brings us closer, these occasions also remind us of the importance of relationships in our everyday lives, not just on special days.Dive deeper into the significance of self-reflection during these times, a key tool to understanding and improving our lives. But beware the pitfall of rumination, and learn how to separate reflection from unproductive brooding. The discussion doesn't end there. We delve into the concept of renewal that special days, like New Year's, invite. I discuss the impact of resolutions, the importance of taking action, and the potential of personal growth. Remember, although our past shapes us, it does not need to dictate our future. Celebrate this special day with a fresh perspective on the importance of holidays and special days in our lives. Tune in for a thought-provoking and inspiring episode.------Live Well and Flourish website: https://www.livewellandflourish.com/ The theme music for Live Well and Flourish was written by Hazel Crossler, hazel.crossler@gmail.com. Production assistant - Paul Robert

In this deeply thought-provoking episode of Live Well and Flourish, I, Craig Van Slyke, present a compelling narrative that explores the profound connection between perspective and our subjective reality. Want to learn how to harness the power of perspective and shape your experiences? This discussion unravels the intricate tapestry of how perspective colors your reality, highlighting the control you possess over your outlook and how mastering it can lead to a more satisfying life.Drawing from the wisdom of stoicism, the insights of cognitive behavioral therapy, and the thrill of an American football game, we decipher our cognitive biases and predispositions. We dive deep into the elements that shape our perspective - from cultural influences to personal experiences, and guide you to understand how these factors create the lens through which you perceive the world. Don’t remain entrapped by a single perspective, discover how to see life through different lenses and live a flourishing life. An enlightening discussion awaits you, charged with the power to transform your perspective and hence, your life.------Live Well and Flourish website: https://www.livewellandflourish.com/ The theme music for Live Well and Flourish was written by Hazel Crossler, hazel.crossler@gmail.com. Production assistant - Paul Robert

Drawing wisdom from the resiliency of the Appalachian people, this episode is a deep exploration of the old saying, "what cannot be cured, must be endured." As your host, Craig Van Slyke, I bridge the gap between this profound outlook and the core belief of Stoicism - the acceptance that some things are within our control and others aren't. I take you on a journey, not only across the rough Appalachian terrain, but also to the storm-ridden Gulf Coast, where people's resilience shines through their ability to weather storms and rebuild their lives.This episode is not just about understanding survival strategies; it's about learning to truly live. I share different practices drawn from these enduring communities that can help you navigate and thrive during tough times. We explore how focusing on immediate needs, embracing what we can control, and finding joy in small pleasures can help us endure the hard times. Guided by examples and personal anecdotes, I hope to inspire you to adopt a mindset of acceptance and resilience, empowering you to brave life's storms. So come along, let's live well and flourish together.------Live Well and Flourish website: https://www.livewellandflourish.com/ The theme music for Live Well and Flourish was written by Hazel Crossler, hazel.crossler@gmail.com. Production assistant - Paul Robert

Imagine there's a vast well of wisdom around you, just waiting to be tapped into. That's the premise we explore in today's episode of Live Well and Flourish. Guided by the mantra 'See your Possibilities, not your Limitations,' your host Craig Van Slyke takes you through his journey of discovering wisdom in the most unexpected places. From the lyrics of a song to the shifting patterns of nature, he unravels how everyday experiences serve as a rich source of wisdom.We also delve into the concept of practical wisdom - the ability to make decisions rooted in virtue and reason. Craig emphasizes that practical wisdom is not a one-size-fits-all concept, but rather, it needs to be personalized, internalized, and applied to our unique circumstances. We discuss various pathways to cultivating practical wisdom, including Craig's unique approach of recognizing and assimilating wisdom wherever it presents itself. Join us on this exploration, and learn how developing a wisdom mindset can lead you towards a flourishing life.------Live Well and Flourish website: https://www.livewellandflourish.com/ The theme music for Live Well and Flourish was written by Hazel Crossler, hazel.crossler@gmail.com. Production assistant - Paul Robert

What if being polite to a chatbot could improve your own habits? Imagine if even your smallest interactions with AI could lead to personal growth! Welcome to an unconventional exploration of AI and habits in Live Well and Flourish. I, your host Craig Van Slyke, unearth the surprising connection between my fascination with AI chatbot, chat GPT, and my ingrained manners. Join me as I unravel how my interactions with this non-sentient software, shaped by my lifelong politeness, reflect the deep-rooted habits that contribute to my overall excellence. Venture further as we discuss the profound power of metaphors and their role in shaping our perceptions and interactions. I reveal how my metaphor of chat GPT as a patient, knowledgeable, and non-judgmental colleague influences my behavior toward the AI. We'll also examine your metaphors and their effects on your approach to life. This unexpected dialogue promises an insightful perspective on the blend of technology and personal growth. So, prepare to reflect, learn, and perhaps even thank your own machines after this intriguing journey. Tune into Live Well and Flourish and let's traverse this fascinating path together. Remember, the pursuit of virtuous habits extends beyond humans to even our interactions with machines.------Live Well and Flourish website: https://www.livewellandflourish.com/ The theme music for Live Well and Flourish was written by Hazel Crossler, hazel.crossler@gmail.com. Production assistant - Paul Robert

What if there was a tool so powerful it could transform your life, providing clarity around your virtues, values, beliefs, and purpose? Welcome to this episode of 'Live Well and Flourish', where Craig guides you through the creation of that very tool - a personal manifesto. This invaluable document helps align your life's purpose, goals, and intentions with the essence of who you are and aspire to be. We'll take an in-depth look at the internal and external components of a manifesto, helping you understand how your values, beliefs, virtues, and principles shape your perception of the world and self.Ever pondered the distinction between values and virtues? Or wondered how principles put our beliefs into action? Stay tuned as we help you navigate these intriguing facets of self-awareness. Craig will equip you with insights you need to develop your personal manifesto, turning it into a practical guide for living your best life. This episode is more than just a journey of self-discovery and personal growth - it's a roadmap to a life of meaning, authenticity, and fulfillment. Join us as we delve into the transformative power of a personal manifesto on 'Live Well and Flourish'.------Live Well and Flourish website: https://www.livewellandflourish.com/ The theme music for Live Well and Flourish was written by Hazel Crossler, hazel.crossler@gmail.com. Production assistant - Paul Robert

Striving for perfection might seem like an exercise in futility, but what if the pursuit itself holds the key to a fulfilling life? This thought-provoking discussion peels back the layers on our relentless quest for perfection. We dive deep into the Stoic principle of the 'Procopton', the ideal embodiment of the one who aspires for perfect wisdom and virtue while simultaneously accepting their inherent flaws. Through personal anecdotes and philosophical insights, we illuminate the path toward this ideal, underscoring the importance of self-awareness, resilience, humility, rationality, and continuous improvement.Consider perfection as a horizon - it's a marker to aim for, not a destination to reach. We explore this perspective, encouraging you to focus on progress rather than absolute perfection. Our journey is peppered with failures and setbacks, but they are merely stepping stones towards improvement. Drawing on Stoicism, we lay out the inherent traits of an ideal Procopton and how you can cultivate them to live an excellent life. By the end of this discussion, you'll realize that the pursuit of perfection isn't about reaching an unattainable ideal, but about constant growth, development, and transformation.------Live Well and Flourish website: https://www.livewellandflourish.com/ The theme music for Live Well and Flourish was written by Hazel Crossler, hazel.crossler@gmail.com. Production assistant - Paul Robert

Promising to shed light on an aspect of virtue often overlooked, I, Craig Van Slyke, invite you to join me on a journey to uncover the power of grace. This episode serves as a compass to guide you through the intersection of grace and virtue, an exploration revealing grace as an embodiment of virtue. Let's challenge the belief that only a divine entity can extend grace, realizing the potential of every individual to bestow this invaluable gift. By understanding grace as unmerited favor, we'll see how it extends beyond forgiveness to include unearned favors and love.As your host, I guide you through a relatable scenario where the choice to respond with grace exercises virtues such as kindness, temperance, compassion, humility, and courage. Discover how practicing grace benefits not only the individual but also society as a whole. We delve deeper, setting the foundation for self-grace, a notion that encourages us to be not just thinkers of virtue, but doers of virtue. Brace yourself for an enlightening episode that aims to aid you in your quest to live a more flourishing life, fostering an environment of grace reciprocity.------Live Well and Flourish website: https://www.livewellandflourish.com/ The theme music for Live Well and Flourish was written by Hazel Crossler, hazel.crossler@gmail.com. Production assistant - Paul Robert

Ever wondered how you could shift your perspective to navigate life's challenges? This episode might just have the answers. Craig dives into the wisdom behind the saying, "You can't control the cards you're dealt, only how you play them." Explore the power of reframing your life story with us, using narrative therapy techniques, as we share the inspiring journey of Sally, a woman who rose from adversity to success. Embrace uncertainty with Craig, as he recounts an unplanned adventure in Ireland that illustrates the beauty of the unknown. He also shares personal insights from his college football days, about the strength and wisdom in knowing when to quit. By listening, you might find a new lens to view your life through, realizing that you can take control, regardless of the circumstances. Tune in for a conversation that might just change the way you play your cards.------Live Well and Flourish website: https://www.livewellandflourish.com/ The theme music for Live Well and Flourish was written by Hazel Crossler, hazel.crossler@gmail.com. Production assistant - Paul Robert

Ready to debunk the misconceptions about Stoicism? Often associated with the aggressive, competitive 'bro culture', Stoicism is in fact a philosophy that champions tranquility, virtue, and reason. Craig demystifies Stoicism and navigating its richness and applicability to everyone. You'll learn how Stoicism is not about material success, but about understanding the dichotomy of control, the power of mindfulness, and the ability to practice virtues such as courage, justice, temperance, and wisdom. Now, imagine gaining independence from external validations and taking control of your actions, beliefs, desires, and opinions. Stoicism can offer this liberation. Craig explores how to maintain a flourishing life amidst life's challenges, emphasizing the importance of cosmopolitanism, the belief that we're all part of a single community, and why compassion and respect for all is crucial. Craig also introduces Stoicism's central practices, such as the premeditation of evil. Tune in, have your perspective shifted and move past the material to gain control of your life.------Live Well and Flourish website: https://www.livewellandflourish.com/ The theme music for Live Well and Flourish was written by Hazel Crossler, hazel.crossler@gmail.com. Production assistant - Paul Robert

Ever found yourself tangled in the stress of life, fretting over things beyond your control? Then you'll want to hear about my life-altering trip to Aruba and the unexpected wisdom it bestowed upon me. I learned to embrace the concept of 'the Aruba moment', a lesson in accepting the journey as its own reward. My story will lead you to rethink your perspective and comprehend the substantial difference it can make in your overall enjoyment of life.This conversation turns to the ancient practice of Stoicism - understanding what is within your grasp and what isn't. Discover how by setting internal goals rather than external ones, you set yourself up for triumph. Accepting fate and living in harmony with the moment echoes key beliefs in Buddhism and Taoism. However, this acceptance doesn't translate to a life without goals. Discover the importance of having a life filled with purpose and right action. Your purpose can serve as a compass in your life, guiding you even when you're thrown into your 'Aruba moment'. Will you struggle against the wave or relish the ride? Listen and learn how to truly enjoy the ride.------Live Well and Flourish website: https://www.livewellandflourish.com/ The theme music for Live Well and Flourish was written by Hazel Crossler, hazel.crossler@gmail.com. Production assistant - Paul Robert

Discover ancient wisdom wrapped in modern relevance as we explore Hieroclese's concentric circles of community. I promise, by the end of this episode, you'll understand how this philosophy, steeped in a duty to others, can enhance your connections, expand your community, and foster personal growth in today's ever-evolving world. Got a heart for empathy and a desire for action? This episode is purpose-built for you. We'll walk you through a galvanizing journey - from immediate family bonds to the vast expanse of global communities, all through the lens of practical wisdom. We'll also explore how technology has redefined our perception of community, and how gratitude, this unsung hero, can significantly tighten our relationship circles. So, tune in, and embark on a fulfilling journey towards living an excellent life by enhancing the lives of those around you.--Can a hermit flourish?https://www.livewellandflourish.com/can-a-hermit-flourish/------Live Well and Flourish website: https://www.livewellandflourish.com/ The theme music for Live Well and Flourish was written by Hazel Crossler, hazel.crossler@gmail.com. Production assistant - Paul Robert