Gregg Henriques is a clinical psychologist and professor at James Madison University. He is known for his Unified Theory of Knowledge (UTOK), which integrates various domains of psychology into a coherent framework. Bonnita Roy is the founder of Alderlore Insight Center, a non-profit educational organization and the curator of The POP-UP School, an online learning community exploring new ways of thinking and acting. Alexander Bard is a philosopher and futurist specializing in the relationship be...
Jun 14, 2024•1 hr 51 min•Ep. 170
Tataya Bailey is the founder and lead trainer of Prisma Leadership, combining her law degree, multiple yoga certifications, and over two decades of facilitation experience to create a unique leadership approach rooted in integrity and connection. Rachel Hayden is a magpie of the Liminal Web, and occasional collaborator with people like John, Gregg Henriques, and Alexander Bard. Her background includes somatics, meditative and contemplative practice, and peer-based mental health How can we heal a...
Jun 07, 2024•1 hr 14 min
Gregg Henriques is a clinical psychologist and professor at James Madison University. He is known for his Unified Theory of Knowledge (UTOK), which integrates various domains of psychology into a coherent framework. What drives our social connections and sense of belonging? In this episode, originally recorded at the UTOC 2024 conference, John Vervaeke and Gregg Henriques explore the profound concept of recursive relevance realization, focusing on its integration into a fourth R: interpersonal r...
May 31, 2024•56 min
Mahon McCann is a writer, award-winning playwright, philosophy doctoral researcher, martial arts coach, and podcast host who explores personal development and ethical issues of technology. Are we on the brink of a new era of enlightenment or facing the rise of an existential threat? In this episode, John Vervaeke and Mahon McCann delve into the intricate relationship between artificial intelligence and the human search for meaning. They explore the potential of AI to act as a tool for personal a...
May 24, 2024•1 hr 2 min
In the vast expanse of human thought, how do philosophy and spirituality intertwine to shape our understanding of the sacred? In this conversation, first released on Andrew Sweeny's channel, The Parallax, John Vervaeke, Andrew Sweeny, and Christopher Mastropietro examine the delicate balance between philosophical rigor and spiritual experiences. They probe the challenges and rewards of navigating this complex terrain, emphasizing the transformative power of love, wisdom, and existential inquiry....
May 17, 2024•1 hr 28 min
Evan Thompson is a philosopher and author, specializing in the integration of cognitive science, philosophy of mind, and Asian philosophical traditions. Based at the University of British Columbia, his work, including his recent book 'The Blind Spot', examines the intersections of consciousness, experience, and reality through a comprehensive interdisciplinary approach. Can cognitive science, philosophy, and mysticism hold the keys to resolving our modern meaning crisis? Join John Vervaeke and E...
May 10, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Ep. 167
Elizabeth Oldfield is a writer, speaker, and advocate for intentional community living based in South London. Her work, including her book 'Fully Alive', explores the intersections of faith, culture, and ethics through a deeply personal lens. In a world that often trivializes love and deep connections, how can we cultivate a life of wisdom, virtue, and transcendence amidst our finite existence and growing polarization? Join John Vervaeke and Elizabeth Oldfield in a profound dialogue that explore...
May 03, 2024•1 hr 27 min
Kyle Koch is a facilitator at Evolve Move Play, where he integrates dialogical practices into natural settings to foster deep personal connections and psychological growth. Have you ever wondered about the impact of our environment on our cognition and ability to connect with others? In this episode of Voice with Vervaeke, John and Kyle explore the integration of dialogical practices within natural settings, the psychological and communal impacts of such practices, and the potential for deep lis...
Apr 24, 2024•1 hr 11 min•Ep. 164
In this episode of “Voices with Vervaeke,” John Vervaeke, alongside Terri Dentry and Aspasia Karageorge, delves into the complex interplay between emotions, chronic pain, and the mechanisms of healing within the framework of Intensive Short Term Dynamic Psychotherapy (ISTDP). Through a rich dialogue, the discussion unfolds to explore the intricate ways in which pain serves not only as a physical experience but as a profound emotional and psychological defense mechanism, obscuring underlying emot...
Apr 17, 2024•1 hr 11 min
This episode, first released on the “Into the Impossible” channel with Dr. Brian Keating, brings together the brilliant minds of John Vervaeke and Shawn Coyne to discuss the advent of artificial general intelligence and its potential consequences. The conversation starts with the motivations behind major tech figures' drive towards AI development and touches upon the issues of trust, adaptation, and the inherent human susceptibility to self-deception. Vervaeke and Coyne, through their book "Ment...
Apr 10, 2024•1 hr 6 min
In this episode of “Voices with Vervaeke,” John Vervaeke is joined by Terri Dentry and Tim Adalin to discuss their unique perspectives on the intricate journey from chronic pain to insightful healing. The conversation delves into the psychological and existential dimensions that underpin true transformation, emphasizing the importance of dialogical practices and synoptic integration in achieving profound personal growth and understanding. Through a rich dialogue that navigates the nexus between ...
Apr 03, 2024•1 hr 19 min
In this episode, John Vervaeke, Gregg Henriques, Michael Levin, and Justin McSweeny come together to discuss the complexities of consciousness, intelligence, and the human condition. The conversation balances between imagination and empirical evidence, introducing cognitive light cones to frame goal-directed behavior. They explore recursive relevance realization, predictive processing, and mutual modeling to show how our sense of self and our interaction with the world are connected. Addressing ...
Mar 29, 2024•1 hr 24 min•Season 1Ep. 160
In this episode of ”Voices with Vervaeke,” John Vervaeke continues his ongoing exploration of Internal Family Systems (IFS) theory with psychotherapist, clinician, and researcher Kasra Mirzaie. Kasra shares his insights into the cognitive, existential, and spiritual aspects of IFS, highlighting its potential to help individuals make sense of their inner conflicts, regulate emotions, and resolve developmental psychopathology. With a focus on dialectic, mythos, and serious play, Kasra explains how...
Mar 27, 2024•1 hr 30 min•Ep. 159
Dive deeper into the transformative journey with John Vervaeke and Jordan Hall as they continue their exploration into faith, meaning, and the power of Dialogos. This second part of their conversation delves into the evolution of Christianity, the limitations of the scientific worldview, and the urgent meta-crisis that beckons a collective awakening. Through a blend of philosophical depth and actionable insight, John and Jordan navigate the realms of relationality, the potential of imaginal enga...
Mar 22, 2024•1 hr 31 min•Season 1Ep. 158
In this episode of “Voices with Vervaeke,” Terri Dentry and Nate Kinch join host John Vervaeke to explore the intersection of chronic pain, dialog, reasoning, and socio-technology ethics. Drawing from Nate's personal experience with chronic pain and his background in organizational design, the conversation delves into the challenges corporations face in exhibiting benevolence and integrity, the biopsychosocial nature of trust, and the importance of understanding one's perspective in navigating c...
Mar 20, 2024•1 hr 25 min•Season 1Ep. 157
In this episode, first released on the “Transfigured” YouTube channel, John Vervaeke and Sam Tideman explore the future of AI, grappling with ethical, philosophical, and spiritual questions surrounding the creation of 'AI sages.' Delving into the nature of wisdom, they consider whether machines can truly comprehend truth, goodness, and beauty. As they examine embodiment, purpose, and socio-cultural context, Vervaeke and Tideman ponder if AI can become wise and understand vastly different minds. ...
Mar 15, 2024•1 hr 19 min•Ep. 156
In this episode, first released on Seth Dellinger's Move with Seth YouTube channel, John Vervaeke, Ken Manheimer, and Seth Dellinger explore the concept of "ecology of practices" through the lens of contact improvisation. They discuss the modern "meaning crisis" caused by societal disconnect and fragmentation, advocating for shared agency and transjective participation to address these issues. Manheimer's experience in contact improvisation reveals its potential for co-creation and mutual discov...
Mar 13, 2024•1 hr 4 min
In this episode, John Vervaeke, Robert Gray, and Eric Orwell explore the intricacies of Plotinus, Neo-Platonism, and pure relationality. They meticulously analyze James Filler's thought-provoking paper, viewing its ideas through Heidegger's philosophy and the essence of language. The concept of pure relationality and its impact on our understanding of reality is thoroughly examined, highlighting key themes such as the One, sacredness, and ethical dimensions. Diverse perspectives are brought into...
Mar 08, 2024•1 hr 25 min
In their second dialogue on "Voices with Vervaeke," John Vervaeke and Vivian Dittmar explore transrational thought, emotions, and transformative practices, embarking on a profound journey into human experience. Vivian introduces a map of five distinct sensations, illuminating the practice of conscious release for personal growth, emotional maturity, and integrating higher consciousness with shadow aspects. Their discussion delves into pre-rational, rational, and transrational modes of thought, e...
Mar 06, 2024•1 hr 7 min•Ep. 153
John Vervaeke and Seth Allison revisit the transformative realm of Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy, building on their enriching dialogues from previous sessions. They unpack the intricate dynamics between the "self" and its various "parts," shedding light on how these elements can be harmonized for deep self-reflection and healing. The dialogue includes valuable insights and clarifications from Richard Schwartz, the creator of IFS, reinforcing the framework's compatibility with traditional...
Mar 01, 2024•1 hr 37 min•Ep. 152
Join John Vervaeke and Jordan Hall on a thought-provoking journey into faith and meaning. Beyond mere intellectual debate, they delve into the heart of Christian virtues, the transformative potential of the imaginal, and the profound depths of dialogue. Through their respectful and insightful exchange, they navigate complex themes such as love, relationality, and the richness of the imaginal realm, illuminating how engagement with diverse spiritual traditions can deepen understanding and faith. ...
Feb 28, 2024•1 hr 29 min•Ep. 151
John Vervaeke and Rafe Kelley join forces to explore the profound connection between movement, nature, and personal growth. Kelley, a movement educator, reveals his "Ecology of Practices," a unique blend of parkour, martial arts, and nature-based movement designed to cultivate a holistic wisdom practice. Discover the transformative power of movement as it pushes physical boundaries, fosters environmental connection, and opens doors to personal evolution. Learn how Kelley integrates philosophy to...
Feb 23, 2024•1 hr 47 min•Ep. 150
Explore the complex relationship between AI and human insight in this thought-provoking episode with John Vervaeke, Ken Lowry, Jonathan Pageau, and DC Schindler. While deeply engaging with the scientific and philosophical aspects of artificial intelligence, the panel discusses its broad implications for our understanding of consciousness, culture, and rational thought. Key points include AI's challenge to our self-perception, its potential to reshape societal norms, and the critical examination ...
Feb 21, 2024•2 hr 1 min
In this episode of Voices with Vervaeke, philosopher and cognitive scientist Mark Miller joins John Vervaeke and Rick Repetti for a fascinating discussion on the connections between philosophy, science, and contemplative practice. Mark provides insight into his work as a 'synthetic philosopher', integrating diverse fields like neuroscience and Buddhism to create theoretical frameworks for understanding the mind and contemplation. The conversation explores whether there can or should be a 'philos...
Feb 16, 2024•58 min
In this episode of "Voices with Vervaeke," John Vervaeke and guest Seth Allison offer an insightful exploration into the depths of psychotherapy, focusing on internal family systems (IFS) and its connections with Jungian psychology and attachment theory. John and Seth delve into the theoretical and practical realms of IFS, as founded by Dick Schwartz, highlighting its transformative potential in clinical practice. The conversation traverses the historical development of psychological theories, t...
Feb 14, 2024•1 hr 22 min•Ep. 147
In Episode 6 of the "Philosophy of Meditation" series, John Vervaeke and Rick Repetti discuss with guest Massimo Pigliucci how stoicism and meditation intertwine. Massimo, an acclaimed philosopher, delves into his transition from evolutionary biology to philosophy and Stoicism. The conversation covers key aspects of Stoicism, including the practice of mindfulness, attention (prosoche), and the Stoic approach to life's challenges. They discuss the parallels and differences between Stoic practices...
Feb 09, 2024•56 min
In the fifth episode of the Philosophy of Meditation series, hosts John Vervaeke and Rick Repetti engage with Evan Thompson, a renowned cognitive scientist and philosopher, to explore the symbiosis of meditation, cognitive science, and philosophy. The episode highlights how Evan's early meditation practice shaped his philosophical outlook, emphasizing the experiential depth revealed by meditative states about consciousness. Discussions cover the transformative social aspects of meditation and ph...
Feb 02, 2024•1 hr 17 min•Ep. 144
In this “Voices with Vervaeke” episode, Terri Dentry and Cameron Duffy engage with John Vervaeke to explore the synergy between interprofessional practice and psychedelic integration. They discuss the 'psychedelic renaissance' and its significant role in modern therapy and research. The conversation emphasizes the necessity for a shared language and an integrative method across disciplines, integrating the four Ps and the 4Es of cognitive science. This episode provides an in-depth look at how th...
Feb 01, 2024•1 hr 7 min
In this episode of “Voices with Vervaeke,” John Vervaeke and Guy Sengstock engage in a discussion about relationality, grief, and the sacred. Highlighting their upcoming Circling into Dialogos workshop, they delve into practices for realizing our interconnected nature, inspired by philosopher James Filler's views on relationality as the essence of being. The duo explores how grief exposes our lives as interwoven relational worlds, leading to a deeper comprehension of non-substantiality and conne...
Jan 24, 2024•1 hr 10 min
In the third episode of the "Philosophy of Meditation" series, hosts John Vervaeke and Rick Repetti engage with Lou Marinoff, a renowned figure in practical philosophy and philosophical counseling. The episode provides a rich tapestry of discussions, starting with Marinoff's initiation into meditation during the 1960s' counterculture, leading to his profound integration of Eastern and Western philosophical traditions. Marinoff elaborates on the transformative role of meditation in personal devel...
Jan 19, 2024•1 hr 21 min