There is a significant difference between counseling and coaching. And there is often, almost always, just as significant a difference HOW people get into coaching or counseling as a profession. In this episode, I talk to speaker and coach Diana Lippert about the near-death experience that pushed her to help others through Dream Builder Coaching. In this conversation, Diana Lippert, a life coach with Dream Builder Coaching, shares her unique approach to helping individuals discover true happines...
Nov 18, 2024•33 min
Two Marines and a Sailor walk into a podcast... the rest was simply my honor to witness. In this engaging conversation, veterans share their personal journeys into military service, reflecting on the influences of family, community, and personal choices. They discuss the structure and discipline of military life, the camaraderie among service members, and the evolving landscape of military recruitment. The conversation also touches on the importance of physical fitness and mental toughness, draw...
Nov 11, 2024•51 min
In this episode of the Meaning Project Podcast, Dr. Dan shares his personal journey into ketamine-assisted therapy, discussing its potential benefits for mental health, particularly for those struggling with depression, anxiety, and PTSD. He reflects on his experiences as both a therapist and a patient, highlighting the transformative effects of ketamine and the importance of setting intentions for therapeutic experiences. The conversation delves into the science behind ketamine, its historical ...
Nov 04, 2024•59 min
In this episode, Dr. Dan reflects on personal experiences and the importance of mental health, particularly during seasonal changes. He discusses the therapeutic potential of ketamine and psilocybin, emphasizing their historical and cultural significance. The conversation highlights the importance of integration in therapy and the upcoming ketamine retreats planned for the future. Takeaways Embrace seasonal changes as a natural downtime. Ketamine therapy shows promise in treating mental health i...
Oct 28, 2024•33 min
In this episode of the Meaning Project podcast, Dr. Dan discusses the emerging field of psychedelic-assisted therapy, focusing on ketamine and its therapeutic potential. He explores the historical context of psychedelics, the science behind ketamine's effects on the brain, and its applications in treating depression, PTSD, and substance abuse. Dr. Dan also shares his excitement about the possibilities of ketamine-assisted therapy for couples and the challenges faced in the current mental health ...
Oct 07, 2024•36 min
Sometimes, MANY TIMES, life seems far out of control. I know mine has lately. I started talking about it here................................ .................. And then it went a little bit more out of my control. The show stopped and was interrupted by a loss of internet. So I went upstairs to yell at the internet and give the dog a hug. And then I got back to it. Kind of a metaphor for life, in some ways. It's a brief podcast. Hopefully meaningful. Enjoy....
Sep 23, 2024•21 min
In this episode, Dr. Dan discusses the meaning of work and how it relates to finding purpose and fulfillment in life. He explores the ideas of Viktor Frankl and Joseph Fabry, both pioneers in logotherapy, and highlights the importance of finding meaning in creative activities, experiences, and attitudes. Dr. Dan also addresses the challenges of finding meaningful work in today's society and offers suggestions for finding meaning outside of work. He concludes the episode by sharing exciting news ...
Sep 02, 2024•28 min
In this episode, Mark Delaney shares his journey of finding purpose and helping others do the same. He emphasizes the importance of living with purpose, freedom, and love, and how these three things can simplify and enrich our lives. Mark believes that purpose must be simple in order to be lived out powerfully, and that overcomplicating it only leads to confusion and stagnation. He encourages people to take action and say yes to opportunities that align with their purpose. Mark also discusses th...
Aug 26, 2024•52 min
Dr. Dan reflects on his recent existential crisis and the future of his podcast. He shares his experiences from a meaningful trip to Europe and how it made him question his impact in the world. He discusses his work with Cardion, an app for mental health and wellness, and his studies in psychedelic-assisted therapy. Dr. Dan contemplates the current state of our culture and environment and the need for change. He asks for feedback from listeners on how he can best serve them and continue to bring...
Aug 19, 2024•36 min
Dr. Dan announces that he will be taking a break from the Meaning Project Podcast for the summer of 2024. He shares his plans for a monumental birthday celebration, a noetic journey, and the completion of his book. He also reveals his new role as the Chief Clinical Officer of Cardeon, an innovative app that aims to improve mental and emotional wellness. Additionally, Dr. Dan discusses his training in psychedelic-assisted therapy and the potential benefits of indigenous medicines. Takeaways Dr. D...
Jun 24, 2024•29 min
In this conversation, Dr. Dan and Dr. B discuss the book 'Man's Search for Meaning' by Viktor Frankl. They highlight the importance of reading the book and finding meaning in all circumstances of life. They emphasize that suffering is unique to each individual and should not be compared. They also discuss the role of spirituality in finding meaning and healing. The conversation concludes with a call to spread decency, goodness, and meaning in the world. Takeaways Life has meaning under all circu...
Jun 17, 2024•37 min
Dr. Dan discusses the eight dimensions of wellness, emphasizing their importance in maintaining mental health and overall well-being. He delves into each dimension, providing insights and tips for optimizing wellness in each area. The conversation highlights the interconnectedness of these dimensions and the impact they have on our daily lives. Takeaways Wellness encompasses eight dimensions: emotional, spiritual, intellectual, physical, environmental, financial, occupational, and social. Each d...
Jun 10, 2024•23 min
“Everything can be taken from a man but one thing: the last of the human freedoms—to choose one’s attitude in any given set of circumstances, to choose one’s own way.” - Viktor Frankl By no means was "everything" taken away. But that hour of work we put in was. The beautiful podcast we recorded was not to be - the victim of new technology. So I had to choose the way - would I leave you listeners hanging, wondering what happened, no podcast drop? Would I find the time to re-record somewhere in th...
Jun 03, 2024•38 min
In this conversation, Dr. Dan interviews retired Chief Petty Officer Joseph Otto Paul about Memorial Day and the challenges veterans face after leaving the military. They discuss the importance of Memorial Day as a celebration of life and the sacrifices made by those who served. They also explore the difficulties veterans encounter in transitioning to civilian life and the need for a strong support system. Hall shares his experiences with leadership and motivation, emphasizing the importance of ...
May 27, 2024•31 min
In this episode, Dr. Dan shares his personal struggles and discusses the nature of suffering and resilience. He emphasizes the importance of choosing our attitude in the face of suffering and highlights the significance of serving others and finding meaning in difficult times. Dr. Dan also explores the concept of resilience and provides practical strategies for building resilience, such as fostering optimism, facing fears, solidifying moral compass, practicing religion and spirituality, attracti...
May 20, 2024•33 min
In this conversation, Dr. Dan and Rabbi B discuss the concept of cancel culture and the lack of resilience in society. They reflect on the recent Tom Brady roast and how it symbolizes the end of an era of cancel culture. They explore the importance of open dialogue, the need for resilience, and the consequences of not facing them. They also discuss the role of humor and comedy in addressing sensitive topics and the importance of freedom of speech. The conversation concludes with a call to choose...
May 13, 2024•44 min
In this episode, Dr. Dan discusses two books that explore the causes of the mental illness epidemic in young people: 'The Anxious Generation' by Jonathan Haidt and 'Bad Therapy' by Abigail Shrier. Both books highlight the negative impact of smartphones, social media, and excessive talk therapy on the mental health of young people. Dr. Dan emphasizes the importance of allowing children to struggle and fail in order to develop resilience. He also discusses the role of meaning, purpose, and communi...
May 06, 2024•45 min
In this episode, Dr. Dan discusses the field of logotherapy, the psychology of decision making, and shares a personal story about his favorite poem, 'The Road Not Taken' by Robert Frost. He explores different perspectives on decision making, including the heroic interpretation of taking the road less traveled and the lament of the decision not made. Dr. Dan also discusses the role of personality types in decision making and the importance of finding meaning in the moment and realizing our potent...
Apr 29, 2024•25 min
The conversation explores the importance of human connection in finding meaning in life. It emphasizes that therapy and techniques are not as important as the fundamental human connection. In this episode, Dr. D. and Dr. B. discuss the concept of holding space for others and the power of being fully seen and heard. They also touch on the negative effects of secrets and the need to address and repair damage. The conversation concludes by highlighting the role of therapy and the Viktor Frankl Mean...
Apr 22, 2024•40 min
The conversation explores the concept of reductionism and how it can limit our understanding of ourselves and others. It emphasizes the importance of not reducing ourselves to a single label or diagnosis, but instead embracing our multifaceted identities. Dr, Dan and B. discuss the changing landscape of education and the value of seeking knowledge and growth outside of traditional institutions. They encourage listeners to say yes to new experiences, challenge themselves, and break free from the ...
Apr 15, 2024•34 min
In this conversation, Dr. Dan and Dr. B discuss the question 'What am I?' and explore the concept of self-transcendence. They emphasize the importance of going beyond labels and focusing on the deeper aspects of our existence. They also discuss the alignment of mind, body, and spirit, and the role of self-care in finding meaning. The conversation concludes with the idea of finding a 'North Star' or a bigger why to guide us in navigating life's challenges. Takeaways -Going beyond labels and focus...
Apr 08, 2024•28 min
In this episode, Dr. Dan discusses the teachings of Dr. Viktor Frankl and shares excerpts from his book 'The Doctor and the Soul'. He explores the meaning of life and the concept of spiritual elasticity, emphasizing the importance of remaining flexible in our perspectives. Dr. Dan also delves into the three categories of values: creative, experiential, and attitudinal, and how they contribute to our search for meaning. He highlights the significance of peaks in life and the opportunity to find m...
Apr 01, 2024•25 min
The conversation explores the challenges and history of adolescent treatment, the impact of past treatment practices, and the need for change in the education system. Dr. Dan & Dr. B. discuss the importance of honoring the individuality and wild nature of boys, as well as the crisis of meaning in education and addiction. They emphasize the role of parents in helping children find their own meaning and path, while also addressing fear and guilt in parenting. The conversation concludes with a ...
Mar 25, 2024•37 min
In this episode, Dr. Dan and Dr. B discuss the importance of personal connection and community in finding meaning and purpose in life. They highlight the impact of the Victor Frankl Meaning Academy and the role it plays in providing a supportive and nurturing environment for individuals on their search for meaning. The conversation also explores the concept of spiritual distress and the role of logotherapy in addressing it. The hosts emphasize the importance of returning to one's true self and l...
Mar 18, 2024•38 min
I was being a dutiful father, standing in line at the local supermarket pharmacy, patiently - maybe impatiently - waiting for my daughter's prescriptions to help her recovery after having her wisdom teeth removed. I know it couldn't have been a fun procedure, so waiting in line for a little while hardly seemed like a chore. And there it was... The NARCAN display. Prominently positioned directly on top of the pharmacy counter in between the two registers, with a giant sign behind it, "You can PRE...
Mar 11, 2024•21 min
As you may know, Logotherapy was the first major theory of psychology to go beyond the mind and body to discuss and analyze the human "spirit" - that part of us that houses our tool box of resilience, that is our uniqueness, our singularity. That construct that creates our ability to love and to laugh. Regardless of your 'religious' beliefs, we all could benefit from an improvement in our 'spiritual' health. So that is what the good Dr. Baruch Halevi and I discuss in this episode - being a "spir...
Mar 04, 2024•40 min
"Meaning" - I talk about it every day. Most days, I listen to others struggling with "Meaning" in their life, and I offer ways to help them heal, grow, improve, become, and discover meaning. Some days, I even have to use it myself. Lately, I've been using it a lot, but maybe not enough - and my good friend Dr. Rabbi B. caught me slipping, so he used this opportunity to call me to task. Enjoy! To contact Dr. Dan go to www.DanielAFranz.com or email me directly at DrDan@DanielAFranz.com To find out...
Feb 26, 2024•41 min
The world is "going to hell in a hand-basket", or some say. What can we do about it? Dr. Baruch HaLevi and I have some ideas on how YOU can have a positive impact in these changes time. To contact Dr. Dan go to www.DanielAFranz.com or email me directly at DrDan@DanielAFranz.com To find out more about what we have going on over at The Meaning Academy, or to sign up for YOUR SEARCH FOR MEANING go to: https://www.themeaningacademy.com/ To support your favorite podcast on Mental Health & Meaning...
Feb 19, 2024•45 min
Almost 30 years... I did the math just the other day. I've been working in the mental health field, helping people, for almost 30 years now. Most of those years, I've worked as a psychotherapist with licenses in general mental health and addictions. In that time, I've been blessed to work with quite a few people struggling with a variety of issues. Even thought the individuals and issues are different, sometimes, good mental health comes from just a few choices or actions. So, in this episode, I...
Feb 12, 2024•33 min
Pop culture reflects real life - in some ways. And real life, healthy real life, is a long-standing tradition of archetypes, beliefs, and values. It is a balance of yin & yang, order & chaos, masculine and feminine. Until it is out of balance. And for some reason, it seems to me - to us - that there is something out of balance with one of the latest pop culture relationships - Travis Kelce & Taylor Swift. In this episode of the podcast, B. and I dive into this relationship and how it...
Feb 05, 2024•42 min