Chung Huong Institute Podcast

0:12 Introduction to Authenticity1:04 The Complexity of Vulnerability1:53 The Masks We Wear3:57 Detecting Deception7:24 The Role of Culture9:29 The Impact of AI12:45 Social Media and Emotional Disconnect23:14 Emotions in the Digital Age26:07 Cultivating Connection in Tough Times29:20 Embracing Common Humanity31:32 Breaking the Habit of Isolation34:02 Practicing Compassion42:15 Changing Dynamics in Relationships43:43 Compassion as a Solution46:45 The Power of Kindness48:57 Personal Journey to CompassionIn this episode, we chat with Dr. Erika Rosenberg about the interplay of emotions, communication, and authenticity in human connection. We tackle societal pressures that mask true feelings and the importance of embracing vulnerability and imperfections. Dr. Rosenberg shares insights on deception and emotional cues, while highlighting the impact of technology on empathy, particularly among younger generations. We discuss “Facial Expressions 101” to improve understanding of emotional expressions and conclude with a call to cultivate compassion and vulnerability to foster healthier relationships in our society.Erika Rosenberg, Ph.D. is a scientist, author, and educator who seeks to help people understand themselves and one another better, connect with one another, find peace and joy in life, and suffer less. Erika is a co-creator of the Compassion Cultivation Training (CCT) program at Stanford University, with lead author Thupten Jinpa, Founding Faculty at The Compassion Institute, and faculty at The Nyingma Institute, Berkeley. Erika has taught at places as diverse as Google, Inc., Lerab Ling Monastery, LucasFilm, Upaya Zen Center, Esalen Institute, and Burning Man. Erikais also experienced in psychedelic harm reduction and psychedelic integration through such programs as the Zendo Project and the Psychedelic Sangha, NYC.Dr. Rosenberg’s academic work focuses on the study of emotion, emotionexpression and contemplative science. At the Center for Mind and Brain at UC Davis, Erika Rosenberg is a member of the Saron Lab, which conducts multi-disciplinary, pathbreaking research in contemplative science. Erika is an expert in human facial expressions and the Facial Action Coding System, with clients in academia, industry, and the arts, worldwide. Her books include What the Face Reveals (with Paul Ekman, now in its 3rd edition) and the widely used Introductory Psychology text, Psychology: Perspectives & Connections, now in its 6th edition). Dr. Rosenberg’s published scientific work on facial expression span basic affective science on research on emotional processes, social psychological research onfacial expression recognition, studies of the effects of meditation on emotional behavior, and health psychological risk factors for heart disease.

Chung Huong Institute's Senior Scientist, Robert A. Harris, AKA #MADBOB is back! ⁠0:02 ⁠The Power of Crazy Ideas⁠45:30 ⁠Reality of Academic Careers⁠47:47 ⁠Mindset and Well-BeingIn this episode, we navigate the complexities of academia and the importance of supporting unconventional ideas, often overlooked in favor of more traditional research pathways. Dr. Robert A. Harris share his thoughts on the prevailing flaws in the funding system, which often favors well-trodden paths and famous names over groundbreaking yet unproven inquiries. Throughout the conversation, we emphasize the importance of nurturing creativity and a sense of adventure in scientific research—qualities essential for true innovation.A significant part of our dialogue centers on mentoring young researchers in a world where professional expectations loom large. Dr. Robert A. Harris reflects on the challenges they face, including the pervasive "publish or perish" mentality that can stifle bold ideas. As an advocate for setting a supportive environment, Dr. Robert A. Harris stress the importance of authenticity in academic interactions and the courage needed to pursue divergent paths in research. Dr. Robert A. Harris also touch on the foundational understanding of what constitutes a scientific hypothesis and the often blurry line between knowledge and understanding.We explore the role of technology and AI in research, reflecting on how they can assist but also complicate the landscape of scientific inquiry. I voice concerns about the overreliance on technological solutions that may overshadow fundamental scientific thought processes. The conversation also dives into the balance of traditional methodology and new innovations, emphasizing the need for hypothesis-driven exploration to bring fresh insights to established knowledge.As we conclude, we tackle the often overlooked topic of mental well-being in academia, addressing the persistent negativity in that sphere. Dr. Robert A. Harris urges listeners to appreciate the privileges of education and the potential for joy within it, while encouraging a mindset shift towards positivity and acceptance of diverse journeys in academia. This exploration not only resonates with the experience of current students but also fosters a broader discussion about our societal narratives surrounding success and fulfillment in the academic realm.Through our conversation, we hope to inspire fellow researchers to embrace their wildest ideas and take bold steps, advocating for a culture that celebrates creativity and resilience as we continue to forge paths in the ever-evolving field of science.Who is #MADBOB ? Find out here: https://chunghuonginstitute.org/madbob

0:02 It's a heartbreaking mess.0:04 The Power of Targeted Approaches0:26 Introducing Dr. Bruce Perry5:27 The Impact of Intergenerational Trauma9:54 The Role of Technology in Development13:32 Effects of COVID-19 on Children16:46 Mindfulness in Education20:24 Self-Regulation Techniques23:29 Patterns of Stress Explained29:57 Wisdom from Adversity35:33 The Challenges in Psychiatry37:56 Rethinking Therapeutic Approaches45:02 The Importance of Community48:05 Healing Without Financial Resources58:23 The Overuse of Trauma Terminology1:02:36 Future Directions in Trauma TreatmentIn this episode, we engage with Dr. Bruce Perry, a renowned neuroscientist and child psychiatrist, to explore the profound effects of adverse experiences on human development. We discuss the importance of human connection in healing and resilience, particularly in the context of intergenerational trauma among marginalized communities. Our conversation touches on the transformative power of overcoming adversity and the necessity of nurturing environments for children. We reflect on the societal shift towards instant information access, which can detract from relational richness and emotional intelligence. We also examine the impact of COVID-19 on youth mental health and advocate for a community-focused approach to psychiatric practices that emphasize collective healing. Throughout our discussion, we highlight the critical importance of precise language in discussing trauma, advocating for an integrated approach that combines neuroscience, psychology, and community insights to enhance overall well-being.Dr. Perry is the Principal of the Neurosequential Network and a Professor (Adjunct) at theSchool of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Victoria Australia. Over the last thirty years, Dr. Perry has been an active teacher, clinician and researcher in children’s mental health and the neurosciences holding a variety of academic positions. His work on the impact of abuse, neglect and trauma on the developing brain has impacted clinical practice, programs and policy across the world. Dr. Perry is the author, with Maia Szalavitz, of The Boy Who Was Raised As A Dog, a bestselling book based on his work with maltreated children and Born For Love: Why Empathy is Essential and Endangered. Dr. Perry's most recent book, What Happened to You? Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing (2021), co-authored with Oprah Winfrey, has been translated into 26 languages and has been on the New York Times Bestseller list for over 100 weeks after becoming #1 on the list in April of 2021.

0:07 Journey to Purpose0:11 Finding Direction in Life0:59 Introduction 3:14 Embracing Continuous Learning4:03 Navigating Toxicity in Academia5:23 The Power of Compassion7:23 Understanding the 'Why'8:07 The Theme of Light9:33 Evolving Aspirations10:43 Inspiring Greatness in Others12:20 Challenging Authority in Academia16:21 Balancing Science and Self-Care18:34 The Price of Ambition22:55 Quality Over Quantity in Relationships24:22 The Art of Focus27:30 Meditation as a Tool for Success31:05 Overcoming Fear and Imposter Syndrome34:11 The Power of Recognition36:56 Breaking the Chains of Perfectionism38:27 Upskilling for the Future40:36 Bridging Academia and Industry41:12 Inspiring the Next Generation43:31 Questions as the New Answers46:36 Following Your Passion49:14 Text Mining Insights51:12 Connection OpportunitiesJoin us for a powerful conversation with Prof. Samira Hosseini, a leader in modern science, educator, and mentor whose journey through physics, biomedical engineering, and the social sciences has shaped a unique and inspiring perspective on purpose, growth, and life in academia and beyond.In this episode, we explore:✨ The power of utilizing the strategy of a “theme” instead of a dream✨ How to stay aligned with your purpose in competitive academic environments✨ The importance of emotional well-being and mentorship in research✨ Why humility and openness fuel true collaboration and innovation✨ The evolving landscape of education—and why asking better questions matters more than ever✨ How adaptability, financial literacy, and cross-sector collaboration can empower the next generation of researchers, thinkers, and overall humans.Prof. Hosseini’s honesty and insight make this episode a must-listen for students, academics, and anyone seeking a more intentional approach to personal and professional growth. Her story is a reminder that pursuing a meaningful life is within reach for anyone willing to embrace curiosity, uncertainty, and purpose.🎧 Tune in and let yourself be inspired.Prof. Samira Hosseini holds a BSc in Applied Physics, an MSc in Polymer Chemistry, and a PhD in Biomedical Engineering. She completed her postdoctoral training at the Research Laboratory of Electronics (RLE) at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the United States.Prof. Hosseini served as Director of the Writing Lab at the Institute for the Future of Education at Tecnológico de Monterrey, where she led initiatives in educational research, faculty development, and publication strategy. She also held a Research Professor appointment at the School of Engineering and Sciences at Tecnológico de Monterrey. She is currently a Visiting Professor at Universidad de Huelva in Spain.She is a Senior Member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) and a member of the IEEE Education Society. Her research team has received multiple recognitions, including the Best Invention of the Year award from the Convocatoria Programa Jalisciense de Fomento a la Propiedad Intelectual, granted by the government of Guadalajara, Mexico. She was also the recipient of the Hero of the Year award for her outstanding contributions to scientific production and faculty training.FIND PROF. SAMIRA HOSSEINI TODAY:Life-changing Program: https://samirahosseini.com/home/Meet In-Person: https://samyrad.com/

0:02 How to Practice Well1:00 The Core of Buddha's Teaching4:57 Five Domains of Practice7:34 The Dangers of Diverse Practices11:04 Understanding Siddhis and Power13:13 Ethical Conduct in Practice15:24 Balancing Compassion and Joy17:52 Finding Hope in Action 23:28 Maintaining a Beginner's Mind25:24 The Importance of the Ordained Sangha30:16 Reflections on Old Age and Death40:18 Advice for Monastics on the PathIn this episode, we engage with the Most Venerable Bhikkhu Bodhi, who offers deep insights into Buddhist practice within today's complex spiritual climate. He highlights that true practice transcends mere meditation, focusing instead on five essential domains: faith, ethical conduct, generosity, learning, and wisdom. Ven. Bhikkhu Bodhi emphasizes the need for devotion towards the Triple Gem and the importance of ethical living through precepts. He discusses how generosity and the pursuit of knowledge contribute to rigorous practice, while cautioning against the pitfalls of mixing multiple meditation styles. Addressing the challenge of maintaining compassion in a chaotic world, he offers strategies for cultivating loving-kindness and shares ways to engage meaningfully with efforts like Buddhist Global Relief (https://buddhistglobalrelief.org). This conversation illustrates a holistic approach to Buddhism that encourages continuous growth rooted in community and humility.

00:07 Expertise in Emotion and Compassion2:59 Career Path to Facial Expression5:24 Blending Science with Mindfulness7:23 Defining Mindfulness8:32 Personal Impact of Emotional Study17:03 Navigating Emotional Reactivity20:43 The Importance of Common Humanity25:49 The Role of Community in Connection25:57 Understanding Feelings vs. Emotions35:04 The Value of Emotional Intelligence41:07 Parenting Through Disturbing EmotionsIn this episode, we speak with Dr. Erica Rosenberg about the interplay between facial expressions, emotions, and compassionate communication. Drawing on insights from my poker background, we explore how emotional awareness enhances interpersonal connections. Dr. Rosenberg shares her journey in health psychology and neuroscience, emphasizing common humanity and the importance of mindfulness in today's polarized society. We discuss the impact of social media on emotional intelligence, particularly among younger generations, and she offers practical guidance for navigating difficult emotions with kindness and compassion.Erika Rosenberg, Ph.D. is a scientist, author, and educator who seeks to help people understand themselves and one another better, connect with one another, find peace and joy in life, and suffer less. Erika is a co-creator of the Compassion Cultivation Training (CCT) program at Stanford University, with lead author Thupten Jinpa, Founding Faculty at The Compassion Institute, and faculty at The NyingmaInstitute, Berkeley. Erika has taught at places as diverse as Google, Inc., Lerab LingMonastery, LucasFilm, Upaya Zen Center, Esalen Institute, and Burning Man. Erikais also experienced in psychedelic harm reduction and psychedelic integrationthrough such programs as the Zendo Project and the Psychedelic Sangha, NYC.Dr. Rosenberg’s academic work focuses on the study of emotion, emotionexpression and contemplative science. At the Center for Mind and Brain at UC Davis, Erika Rosenberg is a member of the Saron Lab, which conducts multi-disciplinary, pathbreaking research in contemplative science. Erika is an expert in human facial expressions and the Facial Action Coding System, with clients in academia, industry, and the arts, worldwide. Her books include What the FaceReveals (with Paul Ekman, now in its 3rd edition) and the widely used IntroductoryPsychology text, Psychology: Perspectives & Connections, now in its 6th edition). Dr.Rosenberg’s published scientific work on facial expression span basic affectivescience on research on emotional processes, social psychological research onfacial expression recognition, studies of the effects of meditation on emotionalbehavior, and health psychological risk factors for heart disease.

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Andrew Holecek and examine the relationship between meditation, non-duality, and their transformative potential. Andrew Holecek introduces reverse meditation, which encourages confronting discomfort to reveal deeper truths and accelerate spiritual growth. We clarify the accessibility of non-duality through present experiences, emphasizing intention in meditation while cautioning against seeking validation from external teachers. Andrew shares a perspective of the three Buddhist wisdom tools—hearing, contemplating, and meditating—to facilitate genuine understanding and stresses that authentic learning requires integration of personal experience. Andrew emphasizes the significance of community in spiritual journeys, encouraging listeners to engage in shared experiences for a deeper connection and greater insight.2:11 Understanding Reverse Meditation6:29 The Nature of Non-Duality9:25 The Art of Contemplation14:04 The Essence of Spiritual Practice25:01 Navigating Teacher Relationships32:28 Projecting Our Shadows38:29 The Balance of Love and Wisdom52:13 Rituals and Teacher Insights55:22 Steps to Dream Yoga58:00 Closing Thoughts and Resources

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Louis Hoffman, Executive Director of the Rocky Mountain Humanistic Counseling and Psychological Association. We explore the complexities of mental health, emphasizing the importance of confronting suffering as a means of personal growth. Hoffman discusses the balance between humanistic ideals and existential challenges, highlighting self-awareness, community support, and the issue of therapist burnout. He advocates for integrating evidence-based practices in existential humanistic therapy and shares insights from his recent publications, inviting listeners to engage further in fostering personal and collective healing. This is a must-listen for the psychotherapist, psychologist, clinical counselor, or anyone seeking mental wellbeing. 0:07 Introduction to Mental Health Perspectives0:14 The Role of Humanistic Psychology5:55 Facing Pain and Suffering8:05 Finding Hope in Community9:57 Understanding Existential Crises19:22 The Power of Hope in Therapy23:39 Trusting Clients and Their Potential35:27 Integrating Evidence-Based Practices40:31 Rethinking Rigorous Research in Psychology42:04 How to find Dr. Louis HoffmanWho is Dr. Louis Hoffman? Louis Hoffman, PhD, is the Executive Director of the Rocky Mountain Humanistic Counseling and Psychological Association and a psychologist in private practice. An avid writer, he authored/edited 28 books and over 100 journal articles and book chapters. His books include Case Formulation in Existential-Humanistic Therapy, The Evidence-Based Foundations of Existential-Humansitic Therapy, Becoming an Existential-Humanistic Therapist, Eros & Psyche: Existential Perspectives on Sexuality, and the forthcoming two volumes, the APA Handbook of Humanistic and Existential Psychology. He has been recognized as a Fellow of the American Psychological Association and 6 of its divisions (1, 10, 32, 36, 48, 52) for his contributions to professional psychology. In 2021, he received the Rollo May Award from the Society for Humanistic Psychology. Dr. Hoffman is the co-chair of the Fourth World Congress of Existential Therapy, which will be held in Denver/Aurora, Colorado June 3-6, 2026. Outside of his professional work, he enjoys bicycle riding, hiding, spending time with his dogs, poetry, and deep conversations with friends.

In this episode, Connie, an experienced educator and sociologist, shares her profound insights into self-inquiry and transformative learning. We explore her extensive teaching career, highlighting the importance of authentic connections and presence in the classroom. Connie discusses her philosophical journey from Western religious studies to Eastern thought, emphasizing self-observation as a critical tool for personal growth. As the conversation unfolds, she addresses the impact of modern culture on consciousness, advocating for mindfulness and active engagement to combat passive perception. Connie offers practical advice for nurturing compassion and empathy in academic settings and introduces the idea of "consciousness salons" for collective explorations of personal growth. This episode serves as an invitation for listeners to embark on a transformative journey guided by Connie's rich experiences in education and spirituality.0:04 Introduction to Self-Inquiry0:40 The Journey of Teaching7:41 Discovering Spiritual Paths12:35 The Importance of Self-Inquiry16:46 Understanding the Ego18:40 Embracing the Truth20:27 The Challenge of Silence23:34 Changing Perspectives on Conditioning27:03 Breaking Free from Conditioning30:23 From Reaction to Response33:03 Exploring Gurdjieff's Teachings36:40 Bridging Science and Spirituality39:17 The Power of Dialogue43:49 Finding Compassion in Academia48:13 Meeting the Teacher54:19 Continuation of LearningConstance A. Jones, Ph.D., is a sociologist of religion who does research on spiritual teachers as well as Hindu and Buddhist movements around the world. Beginning with her doctoral dissertation on the caste system in India, she has pursued a long interest in the cultures and religions of the East, including the adoption of Hindu and Buddhist beliefs and practices in the West.Throughout her career in higher education, she has helped establish women’s studies departments and curricula in several colleges and universities and has published research on women’s status in India and feminist methods.She has been a member of a multidisciplinary team of scholars that investigates new religious movements around the world and has published articles on several movements that are based on Hindu and Buddhist beliefs and practices. Her work includes several scholarly positions, including Assistant Editor of Melton’s Encyclopedia of American Religions for Eighth through Tenth editions; International Advisory Board, Gurdjieff Institute for the Harmonious Development of Man (2017- present) Tbilisi, GEORGIA; Publications Committee, Krishnamurti Foundation of America (2018-present), Ojai, CA.

Quantum psychology meets transpersonal psychology, Eurocentric psychology, and modern life. Let’s wake up to this! Valerie Varan is a Colorado Licensed Professional Counselor and National Certified Counselor. As a lifelong spiritual experiencer and quantum psychology pioneer, she is bridging the latest in quantum/information science with psychology and spirituality. She is author of the self-help book, Living in a Quantum Reality: Using Quantum Physics and Psychology to Embrace Your Higher Consciousness, and is co-author on a new book with quantum engineer Doug Matzke, PhD. Currently, Valerie is residing in Florida, where she offers holistic coaching and specializes in helping others integrate their transpersonal experiences.

In this episode, we delve into the transformative power of compassion in healthcare with Olivia, who previously served as the Assistant Dean of Resident Affairs and co-director of a pediatrics program at the Montreal Children's Hospital. After stepping away from these roles, Olivia has dedicated herself to studying compassion practice and embodiment training. Her mission is to reinvigorate healthcare by integrating these essential practices back into clinical settings, particularly for the benefit of both providers and patients.Olivia discusses her journey, highlighting the challenge of being fully present amidst the demands of medical responsibilities. She emphasizes the pressing need for an awareness of compassion in the healthcare environment, noting common misconceptions about what compassion truly entails. With plans to introduce a session for hospital leaders focused on the importance and science of compassion, Olivia aims to foster a deeper understanding among physicians and healthcare professionals about the benefits of compassionate care for patient outcomes and provider wellbeing.We explore the concept of compassion as a multifaceted process that includes emotional and cognitive dimensions. Olivia clarifies what differentiates wise compassion from ignorance, emphasizing the importance of awareness and true listening. She introduces the term "empathy fatigue," a critical distinction made in the context of compassion fatigue, led by insights from neuroimaging studies. These studies show that engaging in compassionate responses can activate positive emotions, providing a buffer against the negative emotional toll often associated with empathic resonance.Throughout our conversation, Olivia explains the complexity of empathy, both in its emotional and cognitive forms, and how these contribute to our understanding of suffering. She articulates the ways in which compassion training can alleviate burnout among healthcare professionals by fostering deeper connections with patients and enhancing emotional resilience against the rigors of medical practice.Olivia also discusses the principle of common humanity, emphasizing our shared aspirations as individuals to find happiness and avoid suffering, despite external differences. This notion is particularly pertinent in today's divisive climate, where she encourages listeners to adopt a "just-like-me" practice to cultivate empathy and understanding for others.0:07 Introduction to Compassion3:13 Defining Compassion5:09 Wise vs. Ignorant Compassion6:50 Understanding Compassion Fatigue9:34 The Role of Empathy12:01 Preventing Burnout with Compassion16:51 The Concept of Common Humanity19:30 Personal Transformations Through Compassion28:29 Advocating for Compassion in Oppressive Systems32:12 Embodying Compassion for TransformationDr. Olivia Tse, a pediatrician trained at McGill University, has worked to provide care for children both in Montreal and in First Nations and Inuit communities of northern Quebec. She has also educated and mentored physicians-in-training for over 20 years. As a Director of the Pediatrics Residency Training Program and then as Assistant Dean of Resident Affairs in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at McGill University, she has taught the skills of mindfulness and compassion to medical and surgical trainees. Olivia has also facilitated seminars for practicing physicians and is a certified teacher of both Compassion Cultivation Training© and Mindful Practice® in Medicine. She is currently focused on teaching CCT to individuals while concurrently advocating for a top-down approach to compassion education within healthcare organizations.She travels extensively to learn about the natural world and different cultures, and maintains a love of singing, contributing at fundraisers and special events. #oliviatse #mcgilluniversity #compassioninaction

Ever wondered what makes one a real #madscientist or a real #madman ?!You might be surprised to find out it’s part of you. 👀Professor Robert Harris has been Academic Vice President for Doctoral Education since 2019 at Karolinska Institutet (KI). Prof. Harris completed his undergraduate training at Portsmouth Polytechnic (UK) in 1987, his postgraduate training at University College London (UK) in 1991 and was named Professor of Immunotherapy in Neurological Diseases at KI in 2013. Harris has previously served as Central Director of doctoral education at KI (2008-2018), working specifically with developing quality control for KI doctoral education through a variety of teaching and organisational activities, and also teaches widely at national and international institutions. He has also served as Director of doctoral education for the Department of Clinical Neuroscience (2005-2018). He was and Chairperson of the International Advisory Council at KI from 2019-2023. In 2014 he was one of two recipients of the KI pedagogy prize, the first to receive it for a contribution to doctoral education. Prof. Harris was also President of ORPHEUS (2015-2022; Vice-President 2013-2015), The Organisation for PhD Education in Biomedicine and Health Sciences in the European System, which aims to stimulate quality assurance of PhD research and education and to strengthen career opportunities for PhD graduates. In 2024, he was named the inaugural recipient of the FEBS Education award (Federation of European Biochemical Societies). Within ORPHEUS and FEBS, he has conducted workshops in PhD supervision training and leadership development at universities and research organizations all over the world Prof. Harris leads the research group Applied Immunology and Immunotherapy at the Centre for Molecular Medicine, a designated translational medicine centre at Karolinska Institutet. They conduct a strongly interconnected research programme aimed at using knowledge gained from projects in basic science to applications in a clinical setting, with focus on understanding why chronic inflammatory diseases of the nervous system occur, and then devise ways to prevent or treat them. Current focus is on Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Multiple Sclerosis. Prof. Harris has served as consultant to the Swedish biotechnology company Dia amyd Medical AB with whom he has numerous patents and developed a vaccine for treatment of Type 1 diabetes to Phase III clinical trials.

Dr. Rick Hanson sheds light into his own practice, the influence it’s had on himself, and teaches you what it means to live in a state of peace with wholesome means. Rick Hanson, Ph.D. is a #psychologist, Senior Fellow at ​⁠‪@UCBerkeley‬ ‘s Greater Good Science Center, and New York Times best-selling author. His seven books have been published in 33 languages, and include Making Great Relationships, Neurodharma, Resilient, Hardwiring Happiness, Just One Thing, Buddha’s Brain, and Mother Nurture – with over a million copies in English alone. He's the founder of the Global Compassion Coalition and the Wellspring Institute for Neuroscience and Contemplative Wisdom, as well as the co-host of the Being Well Podcast – which has been downloaded over 15 million times. His free newsletters have over 260,000 subscribers and his online programs have scholarships available for those in need. He’s lectured at NASA, Google, Oxford, and Harvard. An expert on positive #neuroplasticity , his work has been featured on CBS, NPR, the BBC, and other major media. He began meditating in 1974 and has taught in meditation centers worldwide. He and his wife live in Northern California and have two adult children. He loves the wilderness and taking a break from emails.