What is a Good Life?

On the 37th episode of the What is a Good Life? podcast, I am delighted to have Piers Thurston as our guest.Piers is the founder of Quality of Mind, where he explores profound realisations that precede psychology, leading to transformative shifts in psychology. In this episode, Piers takes us on his journey, from exploring counselling, NLP, and other modalities to direct path non-duality. We also discuss the challenges often faced in personal development rooted in self-identification, breaking free from our addiction to focussing on our psychology, transcending the confines of the mind while fully embracing our emotions, and ultimately, discovering a sense of oneness and ease that can be experienced in life when we let go of our attachment to the separate self.If you’re frustrated with your personal development endeavours or you find yourself clinging too tightly to your self-identity, at the cost of more fully connecting with others and life itself, this episode offers plenty of food for thought.It articulates or points to a oneness that you've perhaps long suspected, but resisted embracing, that can have a profound effect on how you perceive life.Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for shorter clips and reflections.Contact me at [email protected] to book a free 30 minute consultation for one-on-one coaching programs or to hear about corporate workshops I am offering around this question.Running Order:02:14 What makes people tick?07:02 The space before psychology10:22 Realising there is something more14:19 Personal development is predicated on a self identification18:22 The pursuit of oneness through various modalities21:52 Getting over our attachment to our self24:36 Going beyond the mind30:39 Embracing emotions and the human experience36:39 Not taking conflict so personally42:36 Not resisting what is56:14 What is a good life for Piers?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Piers' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/piersthurston/- Piers' website: www.qualityofmind.biz Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 36th episode of the What is a Good Life? podcast, I'm delighted to be joined by Dr. Susie Orbach.Susie is an acclaimed psychoanalyst, psychotherapist, prolific writer, best-selling author, and social critic. She is also the co-founder of The Women’s Therapy Centre in London and The Women’s Therapy Center Institute in New York City. Additionally, she is the recipient of the first Lifetime Achievement Award for Psychoanalysis given by the British Psychoanalytical Society.In this episode, Susie discusses engaging with and participating in society, emphasising the importance of contributing to common missions and the sense of connection and meaning it brings. We also discuss the factors contributing to the decline of these values, the shift towards competition rather than collaboration, the influence of the era she grew up in on her own social activism, as well as the importance of maintaining curiosity in relationships and life.If you are experiencing a sense of disconnection in life, with society and the world around you, or if you are feeling a little isolated in your own world, this episode will provide you with plenty to contemplate regarding the potential outcomes of shifting your focus and perspectives in life to include the collective as well as the individual.Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for shorter clips and reflections.Contact me at [email protected] to book a free 30 minute consultation for one-on-one coaching programs or to hear about corporate workshops I am offering around this question.Running Order:02:47 Grappling with the demise of civil society05:44 Engaging with and participating in society09:02 Loss of values and connection11:45 A descent from decency - competition over community14:37 A difference between excellence and perfection18:10 Growing up in an era where society was more connected20:13 Founding The Women’s Therapy Centre 23:17 The power of curiosity in healthy relationships26:29 What is a good life for Susie?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Susie Orbach's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susie-orbach-11142737/- Susie Orbach's Twitter: @psychoanalysisKeywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 35th episode of the 'What is a Good Life?' podcast, I'm delighted to be joined by Marina Cantacuzino MBE. Marina is an award-winning journalist, author, and Founder of The Forgiveness Project, a charity that collects and shares real stories of forgiveness for people to consider, examine, and choose forgiveness in the face of atrocity.In this episode, we explore the role of forgiveness in transforming pain, the appropriateness of forgiving or not forgiving in different circumstances, what allows us to forgive, and the role curiosity often plays in forgiving others. Marina also shares numerous inspiring stories of forgiveness from her wonderful project that has spawned a book (Forgiveness: An Exploration), a BBC radio series, and exhibitions throughout the world.This episode will give you plenty to contemplate regarding the idea of forgiveness that you may not have considered before. It will also reveal the complexity and ambiguity of the topic, as well as that of life itself.Finally, if you are anything like me, it will make you reflect on your own relationships presently and perhaps serve as an impetus to reach out to people you want to be more at peace with in your life.Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for shorter clips and reflections.Contact me at [email protected] to book a free 30 minute consultation for one-on-one coaching programs or to hear about corporate workshops I am offering around this question.Running Order:02:30 How can we best deal with our psychological pain?05:44 The appropriateness of forgiveness12:30 Forgiveness’ role in transforming pain15:35 Curiosity, genuity, and spite in forgiveness20:00 The inception of The Forgiveness Project24:17 Forgiveness in extreme circumstances28:45 The power of empathy34:45 What has allowed people to forgive?40:05 Man incredibly forgives his father43:27 Personal stories of forgiveness50:25 The confusing and ambiguous nature of forgiveness52:35 Dignity in dying1:00:19 What is a good life for Marina?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Marina's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marinacantacuzino/- The Forgiveness Project website: https://www.theforgivenessproject.com/Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 34th episode of the What is a Good Life? podcast, I'm delighted to be joined by Pablo Escorcia. Pablo is a Berlin based entrepreneur, Biodanza teacher, Yogi, consultant, and Co-Founder of Purpose+Motion - a group serving others to live out their purpose and provoking change filled with meaning.In this episode, Pablo shares with us elements of his journey of searching for his own path through integrating the practical world of business, ancient wisdom, and the integral world of yoga and dance. We discuss Pablo’s current explorations of open loving relationships and what he has learned from past relationships too, the significance of owning and communicating our humanity, the fundamental importance of trust in personal and business relationships, and the role that Biodanza plays in both remembering what it is to be human and exploring new ways of relating to one another.If you are struggling to understand and express your needs in relationships, if you want to enhance the level of trust and number of courageous conversations in your life, or you’re seeking new modalities to help you reimagine a different future, this episode will give you plenty to contemplate.Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for shorter clips and reflections.Contact me at [email protected] to book a free 30 minute consultation for one-on-one coaching programs or to hear about corporate workshops I am offering around this question.Running Order:02:15 Exploring different forms of loving relationships?10:03 Communicating courageously in relationships15:10 Owning and communicating our humanity17:50 Nurturing relationships to reimagine society21:03 Trust is fundamental27:55 Biodanza: remembering what it is to be human31:25 New ways of being, relating & communicating38:30 Building adaptability, flexibility, and resilience42:24 Meeting people where they are48:10 The different components of trust56:10 The summary of the themes in the conversation57:15 What is a good life for Pablo?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Pablo's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pablo-escorcia-b782728a/- Purpose+Motion website: https://purposeandmotion.com/Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 33rd episode of the What is a Good Life? podcast, I'm delighted to be joined by David Dunn. David describes himself as an alcoholic prison leaver trying to be the change he wants to see in the world. He is the CEO & Founder of Release Mates CIC, a group that brings positive change to individuals in the immediate hours following their release from prison.In this episode, David shares his inspirational journey from hitting rock bottom with addiction in prison to finding the courage to make a change, and ultimately dedicating himself to serving others who are in a similar situation to where he once was.We delve into the roles that spirituality, nature, being of service to others, honesty, and human connection played in this journey. Additionally, we discuss the significance of letting go of control and how this shift transformed his experience of life.If you are currently facing a difficult period in your life or struggling to find meaning and purpose, there is a wealth of valuable insights in this conversation. David is incredibly honest and open about how his life turned around, sharing many profound and noteworthy perspectives on life, regardless of your current circumstances.Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for shorter clips and reflections.Contact me at [email protected] to book a free 30 minute consultation for one-on-one coaching programs or to hear about corporate workshops I am offering around this question.Running Order:02:15 Letting go of needing answers in recovery from addiction04:21 Connecting to a secular spirituality and nature in recovery09:40 How can I be of service to others?12:42 Being honest with ourselves19:05 Experiencing rock bottom24:15 Finding courage and purpose to change30:54 Being kinder to ourselves32:38 Learning to let go of trying to controlling life37:33 Living life through a different lens40:33 Obsession with the perception of our lives43:29 How Release Mates was formed48:22 Trust and human connection56:24 Summary of the conversation57:40 What is a good life for David?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Release Mates' website: https://www.releasemates.org/- David's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-dunn-3b307387/Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 32nd episode of the What is a Good Life? podcast, I'm delighted to be joined by Bassey Ikpi. Bassey is a Nigerian born, American bred writer, ex-poet, mental health and wellness advocate, and memoir procrastinator. Her Book, “I’m Telling The Truth But I’m Lying,” an instant New York Times Bestseller, reflects her experience living with bipolar II disorder and anxiety. She is currently soft at work on her next book.In this episode, Bassey shares her experiences of navigating life with bipolar II disorder and the impact mindfulness has had on her life. We discuss the role a heightened self-awareness has played in terms of being able to afford both herself and others grace, allowing her to connect more with people’s humanity and to see beyond the pain, hurt, and fear that many people are interacting from. She also shares with us how her creativity and writing affords her the space to observe life from multiple perspectives and the impact that can have on relationships.If you’re growing tired of the dichotomous way in which we are judging each other, if you’re seeking more nuanced ways of interpreting human behaviour, and you’re looking to cultivate more grace and humanity in your life, this episode will open up wider spaces for new perspectives in how we relate to ourselves and each other.Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for shorter clips and reflections.Contact me at [email protected] to book a free 30 minute consultation for one-on-one coaching programs or to hear about corporate workshops I am offering around this question.Running Order:02:35 Am I going to be ok?08:25 Am I contributing to my community in meaningful ways?10:20 Affording grace to ourselves and others16:41 The power of acknowledging and owning our behaviour18:15 The impact of Mindfulness20:35 What aren’t we able to disagree respectfully?23:15 The vacuum of religion and Divinity27:20 The beauty, love, and pain of life28:40 Seeing the fear behind the hurt and the hate36:14 The interaction of our fears38:53 Developing awareness while remaining human42:50 Writing to make sense of the world 46:35 Observing life from multiple perspectives50:13 Being able to hear the other side of the story55:22 The possibility of new perspectives57:05 Summary of the conversation1:01:18 What is a good life for Bassey?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Bassey's website: https://basseyikpi.com/- Bassey's book: https://www.amazon.de/-/en/Bassey-Ikpi/dp/0062698346- Bassey's twitter: https://twitter.com/BasseyworldKeywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 31st episode of the What is a Good Life? podcast, I'm delighted to be joined by Alex Carabi. Alex is an author; his most recent book is "On Relationality," a leadership coach, and co-founder of Yellow, a group which offers spaces to learn, connect, and explore without predetermined outcomes or expectations.In this episode, we delve into the meaning of building greater intimacy with others and life itself, exploring various ways of relating to people that transcend manipulation and our typical defences. Our discussion uncovers the profound sense of aliveness, feeling, and depth that arises when we meet others and ourselves in the moment where we presently are. Moreover, we reflect on the alchemical potential of exploring the aspects of ourselves we have numbed.If you find yourself yearning for a deeper connection and greater intimacy in a world often characterised by superficial interactions, if you're tired of performing and acting at the expense of genuine connection and vitality, this conversation will provide ample food for thought. You'll gain insights into reshaping your approach to relating with others, along with fresh ideas to explore and incorporate into your own good life.Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for shorter clips and reflections.Contact me at [email protected] to book a free 30 minute consultation for one-on-one coaching programs or to hear about corporate workshops I am offering around this question.Running Order:01:38 Podcast begins02:16 What is here?06:50 Building intimacy with life10:50 A fear of being seen14:14 A different quality of relating - Martin Buber20:48 Dropping our strategies and defences when relating25:13 Exploring aliveness, feeling, and depth28:48 Dissolving the separateness between us33:23 Giving permission to what is here35:48 What allows for more intimacy?40:23 Getting in touch with where we are numb44:53 Benefits to feeling more of life50:11 Relating to life with meaning53:36 Divine moments in relating to each other55:36 Feeling ok with who and where you are1:02:15 Summary of the conversation1:04:00 What is a good life, for Alex?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Alex’s website: https://www.alexcarabi.com/- Yellow’s website: https://www.yellowlearning.org/- Alex’s book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/9198859307/Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 30th episode of the What is a Good Life? podcast, I'm excited to be joined by Lin Cassie Zhen. Cassie is a friend of mine who took a leap of faith and quit her job as a Design Lead in Tech, without establishing what was coming next, to create space for what would unfold organically.She’s currently writing a book as well as producing a podcast (Being Awareness - https://lnkd.in/e2t-3FxG) on the topic of mindfulness and inner transmutation.In this episode, Cassie shares her evolution from a relentless pursuit of productivity and life hacks to a deeper exploration of mindfulness and connection, and the shift from trying to control life to placing trust in herself and embracing the unknown. We delve into her methods for developing greater courage and trust, which led her to quit her previous role even without a firm next step. Additionally, we discuss the profound influence nature has had on helping her feel more connected to the world around her.If you are feeling stuck in life, if repeatedly leaning into productivity is not creating the life you want, if you’re feeling disconnected from yourself and not knowing what you want in life, this episode will provide you with plenty to contemplate and inspiration for stepping into the unknown.Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for daily clips and reflections.Contact me at [email protected] to book a free 30 minute consultation for one-on-one coaching programs or to hear about corporate workshops I am offering around this question.Running Order:01:40 Podcast begins02:15 What is my purpose?05:15 A divide between the external persona and inner world11:42 Giving more space for creativity and being17:35 Taking a leap of faith / leaving old job20:40 Exploring Fear and the Unknown24:48 Letting go of roles and a sense of belonging29:20 Getting used to freedom31:36 Developing trust in oneself, life, and the world around us33:44 Flow in creativity39:05 Internal connection leading to connection with nature and outer world48:40 Summary of conversation’s key pointsFor further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Cassie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lin-cassie-zhen-73215113/- Being Awareness Podcast: https://lnkd.in/e2t-3FxGKeywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 29th episode of the What is a Good Life? podcast, I'm excited to have Cortney McDermott, a bestselling author, keynote speaker, and strategist for Fortune 500 executives and creative entrepreneurs, joining me as a guest.Cortney takes us on a profound exploration of true freedom and the liberating act of being yourself. She shares her personal journey, which was spurred by a sense of emptiness following her successes as an executive, that led her to discover what truly needed to be explored and expressed in her life.Throughout the episode, Cortney reveals her personal processes that guided her back into her body and feelings, shifting her focus from external seeking to realising that everything she needed was already within her grasp.We delve into the immense energy that arises from aligning with one's essence and the importance of expanding our sense of trust in life. While Cortney also emphasises the significance of neither rejecting one's ego nor emotions, or blindly following ready-made prescriptions for life.If you find yourself grappling with a sense of emptiness despite your achievements and are yearning for more in life, this episode offers a wealth of contemplation. It will open new doors of perspective and fresh curiosity for what may come next, whatever that looks like for you.If you enjoy this conversation, the digital version of Cortney’s latest best-selling book, Give Yourself Permission, is discounted here (https://amzn.to/3Oe5oxO) for the next week!Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for daily clips and reflections.Contact me at [email protected] to book a free 30 minute consultation for one-on-one coaching programs or to hear about corporate workshops I am offering around this question.Running Order:01:50 Podcast begins02:27 How can I be free?05:30 Becoming aware of our conditioning08:45 Connecting with and exploring all of what we are feeling14:32 Giving yourself permission to be you17:25 Exploring self-expression22:05 Everything is within you25:43 Realising what you are seeking is right here29:02 The point of letting go32:25 Using your Ego in alignment38:32 The astonishing powers of connecting41:23 Expanding your trust 45:42 Learning to think and paying attention49:24 Finding your own lane, not following other people’s prescription54:46 Wild experiences in consciousness1:02:50 Summary of conversation1:05:25 What is a good life for Cortney?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Cortney's website: https://www.cortneymcdermott.com/- Cortney's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cortneymcdermott/- Cortney's Book: https://amzn.to/3Oe5oxOKeywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 28th episode of the What is a Good Life? podcast, I have the pleasure of being joined by Guido Palazzo, a professor of business ethics at the University of Lausanne in Switzerland. Guido delves into the intriguing topic of why good people sometimes make questionable choices, exploring the dark side of human behaviour.Throughout the episode, Guido sheds light on the factors contributing to ethical lapses of individuals within organisations, as well as the catalysts that can lead individuals to adopt more ethical behaviours. We also explore the crucial need for deeper connections to foster harmonious relationships with ourselves and the world around us.In these challenging times, Guido shares inspiring stories of individuals who managed to uphold their ethical principles even in the face of adversity. He emphasises the significance of prioritising qualities such as meaning, values, and having various options, which have not only influenced his own life journey but also hold immense importance in leading a meaningful existence.For anyone feeling overwhelmed by the multitude of societal challenges, this episode offers a much-needed perspective on our collective journey towards discovering new visions and narratives. It serves as a source of optimism and hope, encouraging us to actively create new stories and possibilities for an emerging future.Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for daily clips and reflections.Contact me at [email protected] to book a free 30 minute consultation for one-on-one coaching programs or to hear about corporate workshops I am offering around this question.Running Order:01:45 Podcast begins02:15 Why do we do bad things?05:25 What supports people to do good things?07:51 What can make society more mindful?14:21 Lack of connection with ourselves and the world18:01 We are in between visions of society - individual to collective22:00 Letting go and grieving to create change26:31 Characteristics of people who live their values in uncertain times31:37 The importance of investigating your own values33:29 Prioritising meaning over happiness36:45 Building a life around meaning, options, and values39:57 Life is happening now, not in the future42:15 The importance of realising who you are45:10 Contributing to a new narrative52:10 What is a good life, for Guido?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Guido's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/guidopalazzo-/- Guido's website: https://guidopalazzo.com/Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 27th episode of the "What is a Good Life?" podcast, I am joined by Julian Voss-Andreae, who is a Sculptor and a Physicist, with his sculptures often engaging with scientific insights into the nature of reality. His work has received broad acclaim at international art fairs, galleries, and in print and broadcast media, with numerous videos of his work having gone viral with millions of views.In this episode, Julian shares with us his journey into exploring the nature of reality. From doing his graduate research in the lab of Physics Nobel Prize laureate, Anton Zeilinger, to changing paths in life to pursue art, where his passion for exploring the mysteries of the world have been a continual source of inspiration for his work.He also shares with us his curiosities and investigations into spirituality, his process of repeatedly challenging his own beliefs and world views, embracing discomfort, and how this has led to contentment with his life.If you are presently feeling stuck or stagnating, or that life is feeling a bit flat, this episode will give you plenty to contemplate in terms of engaging more with your curiosity and the energy which that can generate. Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for daily clips and reflections.Contact me at [email protected] to book a free 30 minute consultation for one-on-one coaching programs or to hear about corporate workshops I am offering around this question.Running Order:00:01 Introduction01:43 Podcast begins05:11 The wonderful weirdness of Quantum Physics07:23 Holding Paradox09:56 Free Will13:08 UFOs and psychedelics - going beyond the current scientific paradigm17:28 Fascination with weirdness, looking at the world with fresh eyes20:08 The path into Art and Sculpting24:33 Where do ideas come from?28:13 Not feeling fear29:48 Journey with spirituality34:28 Shifting perspectives and leaps of faith38:50 Humility of not knowing41:43 Challenging his own beliefs and world views / Embracing discomfort47:43 Inspiration for his work51:48 What is a good life for Julian?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Julian's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julianvossandreae/- Julian's website: https://julianvossandreae.com/Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 26th episode of the "What is a Good Life?" podcast, I am joined by Angela Kirwin, who is a Writer, Speaker, Campaigner, former Social Care Worker, and author of the acclaimed book "Criminal: How Our Prisons Are Failing Us All"In this episode, Angela shares with us her journey towards experiencing greater comfort in her own skin. From mainly focussing on hitting big goals to observing what actually makes her feel content (community and a common purpose), and from realising it was less about changing herself but returning to who she was. We discuss her process of observing, understanding, and accepting her experience with ADHD through therapy, as well as the life lessons around vulnerability and authenticity she witnessed from men’s groups she facilitated in prison. While she also highlights the importance of appreciating the nuance and complexity of others in order to afford ourselves more compassion.If you are presently being hard on yourself, experiencing negative self-talk, or you feel like you are on a constant treadmill to earn your own self-acceptance, this episode will give you plenty to contemplate, as well as providing a number of paths and perspectives to cultivate greater empathy for yourself. Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for daily clips and reflections.Contact me at [email protected] to book a free 30 minute consultation for one-on-one coaching programs or to hear about corporate workshops I am offering around this question.Running Order:01:38 Podcast begins02:13 How does change happen, societally, culturally, and individually?05:10 Comfort in my own skin08:08 Community and Purpose13:18 How much are we in control of change?17:23 Change or returning to who you were?22:06 Inspiration from vulnerability of men in prison29:52 Lack of honesty with ourselves and others34:00 Journey with ADHD39:38 Inspiration for writing books45:56 Appreciating the nuance of other people’s lives51:37 The power of openness, honesty, and a willingness to listen59:38 What is a good life for Angela?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Angela's newsletter and podcast: https://hyperactiveliving.substack.com/- Angela's book: https://www.amazon.de/-/en/Angela-Kirwin/dp/1398705837Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 25th episode of the What is a Good Life? podcast, I am joined by Jamie Crawford, a former CEO and leader of multiple media brands in Ireland who was diagnosed with MS at 32. After his wife was diagnosed with breast cancer, together they created The Good Glow, a wellness company, with a hugely popular podcast and number one best selling book, Glow, to inspire people to live fulfilled and healthier lives.In this episode, Jamie takes us through discovering he had MS and what he felt contributed to this diagnosis. He also shares the series of adversities he faced in only a few years after the MS diagnosis, losing his father to cancer, and his wife being diagnosed with breast cancer several months after giving birth.We explore our sometimes unhealthy capacity to compartmentalise our struggles and how it generally exacerbates our problems. While Jaime shares how he is grateful for his experiences and what they have taught him in terms of resilience, the changes he has made to his life, and for ultimately becoming more aware of what matters most to him in life - moments & time with his family and helping others.Whether you are struggling with something presently in your life, facing adversity, or are finding it difficult to share your problems with others, this episode will provide you with plenty of inspiration, encouragement, and new perspectives, while providing numerous reminders of what truly matters in life. Jamie’s story is a great example of the obstacle becoming the way.Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for daily clips and reflections.Contact me at [email protected] to book a free 30 minute consultation for one-on-one coaching programs or to hear about corporate workshops I am offering around this question.Running Order:01:50 Podcast begins02:35 How can I help?05:55 Life is a series of mountains and valleys09:05 Developing resilience11:10 Stress and MS13:15 The source of ambition15:43 Early signs of MS21:40 Denial and doubling down on effort25:35 Compartmentalising our problems32:00 Opening up about vulnerabilities and MS38:37 Self-discovery, curiosity and nature41:40 Being a father and the simple things45:26 Turning focus to helping others51:05 What is a good life for Jamie?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Jaime's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-crawford-ba2b3b5/- The Good Glow website: https://www.thegoodglow.ie/Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 24th episode of the What is a Good Life? podcast, I am joined by Robbie Stamp, who is the is CEO of BIOSS International, a Senior Fellow at the Resilience and Sustainable Development Programme at Cambridge University, Chairman of HappenedHere, and was an Executive Producer on the Hitchhikers’s Guide to the Galaxy feature film.In this episode, we discuss the quality and significance of paying attention, cultivating compassion for ourselves and others, becoming ok with not knowing, appreciating all phenomenological and conscious experiences, the mirror AI holds up to us and the limitations AI will have in accounting for all human experience, and how there will always be a tension between creative and destructive behaviour, both internally and collectively.This episode will help you appreciate the messiness of being human and yourself, feel more comfortable with the uncertainty and paradoxes of life, exhibit more compassion for us all while striving to improve, and to cultivate some humility around the limitations of your own knowledge and perspective. Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for daily clips and reflections.Contact me at [email protected] to book a free 30 minute consultation for one-on-one coaching programs or to hear about corporate workshops I am offering around this question.Running Order:01:31 Podcast begins02:06 Paying attention06:51 Compassion for the messiness of human beings10:14 The paradox of needing to be hard and kind to yourself17:29 Becoming ok with not knowing21:32 Getting comfortable with uncertainty28:19 AI and the mirror it holds up to us33:11 What AI cannot capture38:13 The significance of all conscious experiences44:31 Suspending our labels and perspectives48:08 How do we create better civil discourse51:21 Burdening ourselves with ideas of Utopia54:56 Paradox of humility57:36 What is a good life for Robbie?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Robbie's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robbie-stamp-70254/Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 23rd episode of the What is a Good Life? podcast, I am joined by Robyn O’Brien, who is on the Forbes’ Impact 50 List for her work at the intersection of food and climate, the best-selling author of The Unhealthy Truth, the Founder at Sirona Ventures - providing impact capital, advisory and consulting services, and an Adjunct Professor at Rice Business. In this episode, Robyn shares moments of adversity from her journey of confronting the food industry in America over the use of chemicals in the food supply after her own child experienced an allergic reaction. She discuss the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people, not numbing ourselves to pain, paying attention to moments in our lives where our calling can be revealed, and then having the courage to follow it. This episode provides plenty of inspiration as to where this life can take us when we decide to act in the face of sizeable challenges, appreciate the lessons or clues that adversity provides, and how a life of service and collaboration can help us overcome many obstacles. Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for daily clips and reflections.Contact me at [email protected] to book a free 30 minute consultation for one-on-one coaching programs or to hear about corporate workshops I am offering around this question.Running Order:01:30 Podcast begins03:45 Surrounding yourself with the right people06:30 Being in service and alignment10:40 Paying attention 12:30 Staying open to pain as a teacher15:20 Challenges in confronting the food industry21:05 The importance of having the right people around23:57 I’m grateful that I know my purpose30:00 Everything and everyone is either nourishing or extracting32:30 A movement with collaboration not ego36:30 Making a breakthrough with a TED talk41:52 Curiosity in finding solutions45:34 The significance of people having our backs48:18 Courage can be in the smallest steps50:37 What is a good life for Robyn?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Robyn's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robyn-o-brien-a395b42/Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 22nd episode of the What is a Good Life? podcast, I am joined by Craig Slee, who is a disabled writer, consultant, and theorist dealing with mythology, magic, culture, and exploring life through the lens of landscape, disability, and fugitive embodiments. He has contributed essays and poetry focusing on the numinous and disability to various anthologies and has also co-facilitated seminar series at the Dresden Academy for Fine Arts, including one on Ableism and the Arts in 2022.In this episode, Craig takes us on a journey from burning out from trying to be “normal,” living with a life-long disability, exploring other ways of being and existing, developing a deeper awareness regarding the subtleties of life, pain, and suffering, and ultimately to discovering vitality and aliveness in living his own good life.There is plenty to take from this episode in terms of guiding you to pay attention, developing a more subtle awareness, and the significance in our inquiries of sensing the world without labelling it, and what all this may lead to in terms of finding other ways of existing.Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for daily clips and reflections.Contact me at [email protected] to book a free 30 minute consultation for one-on-one coaching programs or to hear about corporate workshops I am offering around this question.Running Order:02:00 What is going on that we don’t notice?03:34 Burning out striving for "normal"07:37 What we don’t notice outside of the “norm”12:58 Cultivating a deeper awareness of pain / Sensing not interpreting or labelling the world17:40 Subtleties in awareness alters relationship with pain21:19 When the general narrative of illness and recovery doesn’t apply26:57 Disability doesn’t have to be suffering32:59 Exploring other ways of existing and consciousness38:49 What is truly internal and external?41:09 The role of magic / “the occult” - the hidden experience of knowing47:55 There are multiple ways of knowing and experiencing the world50:20 Burning out with trying to be normal54:59 Shifting experiences and behaviours with self-investigation57:55 Vitality, aliveness, and not knowing1:01:22 What is a good life for Craig?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 21st episode of the "What is a Good Life?" podcast, I am joined by Katrijn van Oudheusden, who is the author of "Selfless Leadership," a writer, coach, and guide. Her work focuses on helping you see through the illusion of the separate self.In this episode, Katrijn takes us on an exploration and investigation of the paradigm of the separate self. She references neuroscience, physics, and the traditions of Buddhism, Advaita Vedanta, etc., which have been saying for centuries that there is no separate self.Katrijn shares her own path in coming to this realisation and how this awareness leads to a life of freedom, where everything has meaning, and where one doesn't take things so personally or feel small and disconnected.I found this conversation to be captivating, challenging, and enlivening. Regardless of the beliefs you hold, this episode will be a valuable tool in your own investigation of reality and what a good life means to you.Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for daily clips and reflections.Contact me at [email protected] to book a free 30 minute consultation for one-on-one coaching programs or to hear about corporate workshops I am offering around this question.Running Order: 01:25 The podcast begins02:35 What is the separate self?09:37 Duality of experience while knowing there’s no separate self12:25 Free Will - where is the decider or the doer?17:33 The paradox of personal consciousness21:40 Everything has meaning27:16 Personal path to seeing though the separate illusion31:57 There is only this experience - you are everything36:13 Life is no longer so personal - it simply occurs41:57 Attachments to wonder, judgement, awe and labels45:39 The mind’s role in separateness51:07 Keep making plans but know we are pretending57:11 What is a good life for Katrijn?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Katrijn's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrijnvo/- Katrijn's website: https://selflessleadership.life/Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 20th episode of the What is a Good Life? podcast I am joined by Pejman (PJ) Milani, who is the Content Creator at Milani Creative and the Media Arts Director, and a Teacher, at Episcopal High School.I follow PJ's daily content (@milanicreative) where he shares visual metaphors that simplify complex ideas, so I was intrigued to hear his thoughts on this question and the role creativity plays within that.In this episode we discuss the significance of creativity in terms of fulfilment, flow, connection, empathy, and self-expression. PJ also outlines how a daily creative practice enables us to handle ambiguity and develops greater problem solving capacities.While he takes us through his journey and motivation for all of his work - inspiring more people to a life of creativity, that leads to a more connected and creative world.If you don’t presently have a regular creative practice in your life, this episode will give you plenty to ponder, while for those that do, it will give you further inspiration to maintain and deepen that practice.Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for daily clips and reflections.Contact me at [email protected] to book a free 30 minute consultation for one-on-one coaching programs or to hear about corporate workshops I am offering around this question.Running Order: 01:27 Podcast Begins01:56 Navigating the tension between ambition and contentment05:26 Overcoming resistance11:20 Taking your vessel out to sea14:51 Finding Balance17:48 Avoiding an autopilot existence21:44 The importance of a daily creative practice 28:26 Life is not a journey31:26 If we could all just be a little more creative…35:26 Colouring outside of the lines39:09 Creativity and empathy43:56 Creativity is good for the soul47:11 Thought, action, and experimenting50:37 Top tip for more creativity in your life 55:11 The beauty of creating just for ourselves58:25 What is a good life for PJ?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- PJ's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pejmanmilani/- PJ's instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milanicreative/Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 19th episode of the What is a Good Life? podcast I am joined by Dan Lawrence, who is Head of Consultancy at Dallington Associates, a Jungian Psychoanalytic Psychotherapist, and a Social Dreaming Consultant.In this episode Dan takes us on a journey from questioning where thoughts come from as a child, to his investigations and work around dreams and social dreaming. While he also shares what he has learnt from his Zen practice, silent meditation retreats, mat surfing, and his recent intensive care unit experience in Malaysia. Dan’s life path to date includes being a Derivatives Trader for a decade, studying Theology, briefly considering priesthood, becoming a Jungian psychotherapist, offering Psychedelic integration therapy, all while practicing Zen for 25 years. His unique life experiences and perspectives make him one of the most insightful people I know. Through listening to this episode I am sure you’ll widen the scope of your investigation, and awareness, in contemplating what contributes to your own good life.Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for daily clips and reflections.Contact me at [email protected] to book a free 30 minute consultation for one-on-one coaching programs or to hear about corporate workshops I am offering around this question.Running Order: 01:40 Podcast begins02:00 where do thoughts come from?04:15 The nature of dreams09:10 Social Dreaming12:50 Waking and sleeping dreams16:37 Infant Observation21:40 A Social Unconscious25:20 Another language31:15 Facilitating mobility and spaciousness35:26 Importance of dreaming in understanding40:47 The trouble with dismissing dreams43:55 The compensatory nature of dream46:48 Not knowing is most intimate50:07 An intensive care unit experience56:32 Connection with aliveness1:01:25 Can you handle joy and awe1:06:15 What is a good life for Dan?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Dan's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-lawrence-1537271b/- Dan's company website: https://www.theunthoughtknown.com/Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 18th episode of the What is a Good Life? podcast I am joined by Hannah Genton, who is a Co-Founder at CGL LLP, a law firm she established, a speaker on Innovation in the Law and Work Models for Mental Health, and a Death Doula.I contacted Hannah for this conversation after reading an amazing viral post of hers that very authentically depicted the challenge of juggling the big law career and raising a baby. This experience proved to be the inspiration for setting up a law firm that accommodated other approaches to working in this industry (“I had the sense that work should adapt to life, not the other way around”- from the post).In this episode we discuss Hannah’s approach to developing authenticity and truly living her values, setting up the law firm, her self-reflection practices and how they have affected her approach to life, her experiences of working with the dying, and what she is learning from parenting with regards play, curiosity, and letting go of fixed plans and outcomes.Hannah provides a great example of someone consciously constructing their life around their values, so I took a lot from this conversation as I am sure you will too.Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for daily clips and reflections.Running Order:01:37 Podcast begins02:35 How can I be authentically me?05:52 Setting up her own law firm09:51 The feeling of aligning with values13:07 When your values are clear decisions are easy14:20 Journey of self-reflection18:51 Experiencing death early in life and working with the dying22:04 Common threads of conversations with the dying25:53 Finding meaning28:35 The importance of curiosity in relating to people32:25 Journey with Authenticity36:02 Fun and creativity42:02 Lessons from kids and curiosity46:30 What is a good life for Hannah?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Hannah's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahgenton/- Hannah's company website: https://cgl-llp.com/Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 17th episode of the What is a Good Life? podcast I am joined by Bayo Akomolafe, who is a widely celebrated international speaker, posthumanist thinker, poet, professor, public intellectual, essayist, and author. Bayo is the Founder of The Emergence Network, he currently lectures at Pacifica Graduate Institute, California, and the University of Vermont, and was appointed the inaugural Global Senior Fellow of the University of California’s (Berkeley) Othering and Belonging Institute. He has also been appointed Senior Fellow for The New Institute in Hamburg, Germany.In this episode, Bayo shares with us his journey of moving beyond the confines of final statements, final destinations, and boundaries, to an ongoing emergence, or flow. This conversation delves into the abstract, the philosophical, and the practical, as well as Bayo’s personal experiences of what his son with Autism is teaching him about wisdom.We discuss the importance of cultivating bewilderment, wonder and inquiry, and disrupting the logic of continuity, for new ideas and solutions to emerge - to break the cycle of problems and solutions feeding each other. This episode will challenge your thinking and perhaps inspire you to new ways of problem solving and understanding, while it may also require you to listen with more than your ears and your mind.Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for daily clips and reflections.Running Order: 01:44 Podcast begins02:42 Is there pain in Heaven?05:12 Is there another colour?08:02 A problem with a "perfect" city12:44 Creating the space for observing the emergent17:13 The role of the monster / questioning stability21:36 Holding fixed views when everything is in flux23:29 There isn’t an originary point to return to31:44 His son becomes his teacher and coach40:14 Shifting perspectives to navigate the world42:59 Communicating from a different dimension of thought45:39 Rejecting walls49:17 What’s more than a solution?55:04 What’s required beyond information?59:09 What is a good life for Bayo?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Bayo's Website: https://www.emergencenetwork.org/- Bayo's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bayoakomolafe/Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 16th episode of the What is a Good Life? podcast I am joined by Diane Button, who is the author of the bestselling book, Dear Death: Finding Meaning in Life, Peace in Death, and Joy in an Ordinary Day. She holds a Master's in Counselling Psychology, is a practicing end-of-life doula and a lead instructor at the University of Vermont Larner College of Medicine’s EOL Doula Certificate Program. In this episode Diane shares the 4 pillars of a meaningful life that she identified through interviewing people over the age of 75 who were fully content with how they lived. We discuss what she has learned about relationships, forgiveness, self-acceptance, and self-reflection, through working with people at the end of their lives.While the conversation further reinforces for me the importance of regularly contemplating life through the lens of death in building my own good life. As it is filled with heartfelt insights, wisdom, and practical tools for living a life of greater reflection, connection, less regret, and for finding meaning.Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for daily clips and weekly reflections.Running Order: 01:28 Podcast Begins04:48 Developing an acceptance of death08:58 The journey towards working with the dying11:18 Identifying 4 pillars of a meaningful life 15:48 Developing Self-acceptance 19:38 Seeing the beauty in yourself20:27 The power of authentic conversations 23:39 Relieving fear and bringing more ease to the dying27:42 Doing Life Reviews 30:03 There is life until the end32:18 Forgiveness 37:00 Not everyone wants to address death when dying39:38 How often do we give someone 100% of our attention?42:40 How can we embrace and not fear death so much?46:30 Beautiful experiences when people near death48:50 The journey inward at the end of life50:16 Observing the end of life53:33 What is a good life for Diane?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Diane's Website: https://www.dianebutton.com/Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 15th episode of the What is a Good Life? podcast I am joined by Benjamin Western, who is the Founder at The Shining Light Project, a trustee at Hope & Aid Direct, and Head of Sustainability at LRQA.This episode is different from the others, as this is more a conversation than an interview, and we are focussing on the teachings of Anthony De Mello.Anthony De Mello was an Indian Jesuit priest and psychotherapist. A spiritual teacher and author of several spiritual books, two of which, Awareness and The Way to Love, have had a huge impact on both mine and Benjamin's lives.In this episode we explore and reflect on the core teachings of De Mello, essentially that our attachments in life are making us suffer. We explore where we as humans are most attached, to possessions, caring what people think of us, achievement, habits, our beliefs, and our proclivity to chase thrills and excitement rather than what brings us real happiness.I loved discussing these themes with Benjamin, who is a wise and thoughtful soul, and it will give you plenty to contemplate in terms of your present attachments in life.Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for daily clips and weekly reflections.Running Order: 01:34 Podcast begins02:09 Discovering the work of Anthony De Mello07:07 Attachments are the source of our misery10:04 Our happiness is contingent on so many things12:19 Do you realise what you are attached to?15:14 The hardest thing to accept in his teachings20:24 Exploring an attachment to life25:22 Unhealthy attachments that are normalised28:34 Awareness of attachments 31:34 Letting go doesn’t mean renunciation33:46 Do you accept yourself or others as they are?37:54 Being who you were meant to be41:04 What lens do you view the world through?44:34 Be wary of the labels you apply to others46:18 World feelings v Soul feelings52:14 Joy in difficult circumstances55:34 Explore your attachments playfully58:49 Humour in the human predicament1:02:04 What is a good life for Benjamin?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Benjamin's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminwestern/Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 14th episode of the What is a Good Life? podcast I am joined by Charlotte Wiedemann, who is a Journalist and a Death Doula. Through her journalism work, she is creating greater awareness of death, funeral, and grief issues, and at Ahorn Gruppe, where she currently works, she has helped to amass a following of almost 200k people on TikTok through discussing these themes.In this episode we discuss our societal difficulties in talking about death, our repression of emotions, beautiful moments within suffering, how we can support people experiencing loss, the aliveness and gratitude for life Charlotte experiences through working with the dead, and how birth, life and death are so deeply intertwined. Charlotte also shares some profound exercises and thoughts with regards contemplating death to create a better life.Paradoxically, I found this discussion around death to be extremely enlivening, and it further enhances my perspective that the more we avoid acknowledging death, the more we fear fully living. This conversation left me with A LOT to contemplate, as I’m sure it will for you too.Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for daily clips and weekly reflections.Running Order: 01:23 Podcast Begins02:16 Inquiry with death begins04:46 Difficulties with talking about death08:14 Repression of emotions09:45 Picturing yourself on your own death bed11:38 It’s ok to have regrets with the dying16:21 Moments of beauty in sadness20:23 You can’t fix death or make it better, just be there for people22:55 There are many moments of loss in life25:43 Prolonging of life28:55 Magical moments in death34:00 How the experience of birth led to deathcare39:25 The effect of working with a dead body42:07 Bringing the conservation around death to a wider audience45:28 What is a good death?48:42 What is a good life for Charlotte?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Charlotte's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlotte-wiedemann-71614b17/Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 13th episode of the “What is a Good Life?” podcast, I am joined by David McQueen. David is an Executive Coach, a Keynote Speaker, and an executive and non-executive director for several businesses.In this episode David takes us through the role compassion plays in his life - for himself, for others, in reconnecting with nature, in building community, and in contributing to others. While we also discuss anything from the supernatural, imposter syndrome, the importance of knowing when enough is enough materially and to ultimately following your own path.This conversation resonated with me a lot, and David provides a great example of someone who is consciously carving out his own version of a good life. The episode is filled with insights and reflections that will give you plenty to ponder in terms of experiencing more compassion for yourself and those around you.Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for daily clips and weekly reflections.Running Order: 01:15 Podcast begins02:18 What would it take for us to have more compassion?05:32 Convenience over compassion?12:20 Humans are selfish15:18 Community and self-connection18:45 We are all connected22:50 The void of religion26:58 Wrestling in my mind between the skeptic & the spiritual29:30 Reconnecting with Nature34:10 Switching off38:15 Moving from surviving to thriving40:15 Regrets of the dying42:38 Giving back45:45 What really brings us happiness49:00 Time alone & balance50:40 Seeing life as an adventure54:45 What is a good life for David?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- David's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrdavidmcqueen/- David's website: https://www.davidmcqueen.co.uk/ Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the 12th episode of the What is a Good Life? podcast, I am joined by Alison Taylor, who is a Clinical Professor at NYU Stern School of Business, Executive Director at Ethical Systems, and is writing a book for the Harvard Business Review Press on how business can do the right thing in a turbulent world.In this episode Alison describes how curiosity has been her main driving force in life, taking her on a journey from investigating corporate corruption on several continents to teaching at NYU. She talks about embracing adventure, playing to your strengths, loving your work, and the importance of contributing to what you care about to remain optimistic in the face of a tumultuous world.Given both our proclivities for jumping continents and careers at various points in life, I took a lot of inspiration from her story, and success, of backing herself and going her own way - as I’m sure you will too.Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for daily clips and weekly reflections.Running Order: 01:08 Podcast begins02:30 Stories versus Facts06:09 What does it take for society's values to shift?07:40 Optimism for humans?12:30 Playing to your strengths / contributing to what you care about15:10 Curiosity & Humility19:50 Not having a long term plan23:50 Trust and developing a sense of self26:07 I know who I am / what I want27:50 The power of humility & experimenting33:40 Loving your work37:20 Being yourself in a world telling you to be something else40:55 Summary of themes in the conversation43:22 What is a good life for Alison?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Alison's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/followalisont/Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the eleventh episode of the “What is a Good Life?” podcast, I am joined by Darragh Power, who is researching and writing a book on wisdom.If you are feeling stuck, are being too hard on yourself, and are in need of some inspiration and tools to progress, this episode will be for you.In this conversation we talk about the importance of quests and curiosity in unlocking our potential and motivation, seeing wisdom in the everyday and ourselves, feeling alive in one’s life, how to presently see ourselves as being enough, as well as holding wider philosophical views to help us feel more ease with the constant chatter and reactions of the mind.While Darragh has a wonderfully grounded and practical wisdom to listen along to, where he is as likely to draw from Shakespeare or Socrates in one sentence, as he is from his Granny or a friend in the next. Darragh is a lifelong learner, having completed 3 Masters to date, he lectures part-time at DCU, and is a Senior Director at SAP, in learning design and coaching roles.Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel (link below) for daily clips and weekly reflections.Running Order: 01:36 What is a wise being?07:21 Observing wisdom in the everyday 09:09 Asking questions to unlock your motivation/potential/future12:51 Engaging with the unknown16:11 Finding balance between your soul and your responsibility21:11 Deficiency in our senses and education26:11 Feeling alive29:11 The Universal nature of aliveness and wisdom30:41 Grounded wisdom35:21 Seeing the opportunity in adversity39:16 Seeing ourselves as enough43:11 Being ok with your thinking and its fluctuations47:41 The peace of the present moment49:41 Getting ok with the mind’s fluctuations52:31 Compassion for ourselves and others54:51 Everyone is wise1:01:31 What is a good life for Darragh?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Darragh's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darraghpower/Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the tenth episode of the “What is a Good Life?” podcast, I am joined by Baiba Rubesa.Baiba is a business executive across several industries, from natural resources, banking, automotive, telecoms, and most recently transport / railways – in which she served as the Chairperson & CEO at RB Rail.In this episode, Baiba takes us through her fascinating journey from her youth in Canada and Germany, born to Latvian parents with a dream of supporting her homeland, to ultimately being part of a shaping a post revolutionary society in Latvia later in life. From being the only woman on many boards to focussing on women’s economic empowerment (currently Co-founder at Novatore), while sharing her thoughts on the Golden Rule, seizing the day, intuition, pivoting, and focussing on one’s strengths.I wanted to interview Baiba as I believe she lives a truly unique life, and one I learned a lot from listening to her reflect on – as I am sure you will too.Running Order: 01:16 Podcast begins02:46 A call to supporting Latvia05:16 Life being shaped by personality, enjoyment, values07:36 Hold your plans lightly10:31 Intuition in decision making11:59 Supporting women in business17:16 Being the only woman in the boardroom23:36 The importance of listening, understanding, and communicating27:56 Seize the day29:56 Facing an early midlife crisis31:46 The importance of pivoting35:46 Learning to go with the flow / Intuition40:26 Dreams for Latvia45:21 “I was part of a revolution”48:46 Focussing on my strengths53:16 Knowing who you are57:46 What is a good life for Baiba?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Novatore's Website: https://www.novatore.eu/- Baiba's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/baibarubesa/Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel for daily clips and weekly reflections.Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the ninth episode of the “What is a Good Life?” podcast, I am joined by Jonny Camara.In this episode Jonny takes us through his journey of growing up in Belfast to an Irish mother and a Senegalese father, from repressing parts of himself to reclaiming them, from pain and suffering to creativity and connection, and ultimately to finding the trust and courage to being himself and understanding what he wants, and what matters, in life.Jonny is a Leadership Development Strategist and Coach, who’s path of suffering, self-inquiry, and alignment, is also serving as inspiration to his burgeoning screenwriting and acting endeavours.Having interviewed 150+ people around this question to date, if I had to name one thing that leads people to being more themselves, or to figuring out what they want in life, then suffering, or periods of struggle, would be it. This conversation with Jonny provides an inspiring example of this observation.Running Order: 01:40 How do I use all of my talents?05:25 Suffering leading to play & creativity08:20 Allowing our complexity to emerge10:10 Journaling13:05 The need for self-expression15:40 Growing up in a predominantly white environment19:45 Seeking belonging26:10 What stories do we attach to our difference?30:10 Deconstructing the lens through which we view life33:10 Turning pain into expression37:25 The pain of facing racism41:02 Stories to connect our humanity45:42 Reclaiming oneself48:30 Letting go & self-compassion50:32 “I hope you never find out who you are”53:38 What is a good life for Jonny?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Jonny's Website: https://www.jonnycamara.com/- Jonny's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonny--camara/Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel for daily clips and weekly reflections.Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the eighth episode of the “What is a Good Life?” podcast, I am joined by Dr. Daria Chrobok, an artist, a scientist (PhD in plant physiology), and an entrepreneur.In this episode Daria takes us through her journey of cultivating more inner peace (via ice baths, meditation, and the grounding influence of nature), redefining relationships, releasing her creativity, stepping away from academia, setting up her own company (DC SciArt), and residing in her purpose.If you are still looking to identify what you want to do with your life, if you pay attention to Daria’s whole process, I believe you’ll observe many of the necessary steps to identify and engage with one’s purpose. Running Order: 00:00 Introduction01:00 Podcast Begins01:20 What attracted Daria to plant physiology04:00 The grounding of plants09:00 The need for Nature11:12 Getting out of her head – Ice bathing & Meditation16:00 Inviting small discomforts into our lives18:58 Rediscovering Art21:25 A rush of creativity25:28 Recognising the need to slow down29:10 Recognising when relationships no longer serve us33:30 Stepping into your own truth35:50 Engaging with the unknown40:06 Crisis leads to inspiration43:22 Difficulties with the academic system46:31 Balancing logic, emotion, feelings, and intuition50:05 Connecting Art and Science53:40 Challenges in experiencing a good life56:00 What is a good life for Daria?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Daria's Website: https://www.dariasciart.com/- Daria's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariachrobok/Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel for daily clips and weekly reflections.Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the seventh episode of the “What is a Good Life?” podcast, I am joined by Alex Holmes, whose work focusses on the mental and emotional health of men.Alex is the Founder of The Mindful Life, an award winning Podcaster (Time to Talk with Alex Holmes, The Mindful Man), an Author, Time to Talk: How Men Think About Love, Belonging and Connection, and a Therapeutic Coach (using Bibliotherapy amongst other approaches). In this episode Alex takes us through his journey of experiencing breakdowns at work, to redefining his relationship with himself and those around him, establishing his values, to discovering his purpose in serving men’s mental health, and he brings up many of the challenges men face in addressing their mental health. Running Order: 00:00 Introduction01:07 Podcast begins03:22 Curiosity06:17 Starting off in Journalism08:07 what brought Alex to exploring men’s mental health12:32 Life can be lonely15:32 Experiencing breakdowns at work17:32 Developing and understanding better relationships21:20 The importance of developing your own values25:11 Learning to communicate when problems arise27:42 We need to give our relationships more attention29:29 Alex discovers his purpose35:07 Being in service to others37:37 The importance of looking inwards42:32 What stops us from looking inside?45:07 Accessing the inner child47:56 There is still hope51:40 Kinkeeping57:37 What is a good life for Alex?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Alex's Website: https://alexholmes.co/- Alex's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/byalexholmes/Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel for daily clips and weekly reflections.Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the sixth episode of the “What is a Good Life?” podcast, I am joined by Paul Gleeson. In his lifetime, Paul has rowed across the Atlantic Ocean, cycled across Australia, rowed the Northwest passage in Canada, participated in an expedition to the Artic, amongst many more adventures.Paul runs his own coaching and consulting practice, Turas Consulting, he has authored a book about his experience of rowing across the Atlantic, Crossing the Swell, and is currently writing a book about building an expedition mindset. What’s more, Paul is a great mate of mine who I find to be one of the most effortlessly inspiring people I know, with no airs, graces, or pretences about him.In this podcast we discuss his experiences of fearing for his safety and handling uncertainty while crossing the Atlantic Ocean, finishing his ride across Australia despite being knocked down twice, and what lessons he has learned about himself, his mind, performance, and life, through these adventures.Running Order:00:00 Introduction01:35 Podcast begins03:37 First inspiration for adventure05:37 Are we getting too comfortable?10:13 Satisfaction in discomfort13:00 Motivation for cycling across Australia15:57 Getting knocked down 20:47 What you running from?23:12 3 lessons from cycling across Australia26:17 Getting knocked down a second time30:17 The importance of nature33:27 Deciding to row across the Atlantic Ocean with little rowing experience36:02 Two lessons from preparing to row across an ocean40:02 Handling fear42:32 The motivation for rowing across the Atlantic Ocean45:32 Handling uncertainty and risk48:47 Fearing for his life crossing the ocean 51:42 Seeing land for the first time in 85 days56:17 embracing Family after crossing the ocean59:47 Reconnecting with something primal1:02:17 Tips for finding your own expedition1:05:37 What is a good life for Paul?For further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Paul's Website: https://www.turasconsulting.com/- Paul's Twitter: https://twitter.com/paultgleesonSubscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel for daily clips and weekly reflections.Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the fifth episode of the “What is a Good Life?” podcast, I am joined by James Cussen, the Creator at The Living Philosophy. I discovered James’ work through his well-received YouTube channel of the same name, The Living Philosophy. I’d strongly recommend this to anyone with a curiosity for philosophy or a desire to broaden their thinking. Since devouring a copy of Albert Camus’s The Outsider as a teenager, philosophy has taken James on a journey from despair to immense purpose. His content, guidance, and ideas, have a strong emphasis on the importance of embodying the wisdom of philosophy and learning the art of the good life, so naturally I felt he’d be an ideal guest for this podcast. In this podcast we discuss discovering purpose, focussing on the collective’s well-being as well as our own, building your own personal philosophy, the role of curiosity in James’ personal philosophy, and the considerable significance of family and close relationships in experiencing a good life.Running Order: 00:01 Introduction01:50 How James discovered philosophy04:55 Finding purpose06:52 Focus on the collective11:26 Balancing self-work and helping society14:13 Preconventional, conventional, postconventional morality18:10 Using my work to bring everyone to the table21:20 Processes for self-development23:20 Ayahuasca28:10 Acknowledging what could be beyond the material32:30 Racing to enlightenment!35:15 Anthony DeMello37:50 Simple doesn’t mean easy42:40 Simplicity or complexity45:35 Deeper understanding48:35 Building your own philosophy53:30 A tool for cataloguing ideas / thoughts / dreams55:58 Gardening my thoughts58:53 Curiosity is a golden virtue1:01:30 The more I know, the less sure I am1:05:12 Well-being and truth1:09:00 What is a Good Life for James?1:11:44 The importance of relationshipsFor further content and information check out the following: - For the podcast's YouTube page: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- The Living Philosophy YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheLivingPhilosophy- The Living Philosophy Website: https://www.thelivingphilosophy.com/- The Living Philosophy newsletter: https://thelivingphilosophy.substack.com/Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel for daily clips and weekly reflections.Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the fourth episode of the “What is a Good Life?” podcast, I am joined by Jindy Mann to discuss both our experiences of therapy. Jindy is a co-Founder of Leader Brother Son, a group that works with individuals and organisations, with the goal of helping men become better and happier partners, colleagues, fathers, leaders, brothers, sons - and men. Ultimately through having more open, honest, and vulnerable, conversations and engaging with topics men don’t typically discuss. A significant departure from his past lives in Management Consultancy and Banking. Jindy is also a good mate of mine, and we thought it would be helpful to have a conversation around our experiences with therapy, in part to break down stigma around what therapy is, how it works, what you could expect from it, and to show it’s a normal topic of conversation. In this podcast we share what was happening in our lives that made us seek therapy, what moments instigated the process, what we wanted to explore or heal, how it started, what surprised us about it, and how our lives have changed for the better because of it. Running Order:01:35 Podcast begins03:10 When did Jindy start going to therapy05:45 Why Jindy needed therapy09:10 You seem to be carrying grief10:00 Why Mark needed therapy13:00 Tired of faking it (clip)17:18 Finding a therapist20:10 Needing someone independent and skilled24:25 How did your therapy journey begin?26:15 Letting go and crying30:00 Dealing with our past and events from childhood33:00 Using anger as a coping mechanism35:36 Not knowing how to express feelings37:00 Speaking in the first-person perspective41:00 What surprised you about therapy44:35 It felt good to cry47:00 Stigma 50:00 How did it affect your relationships?55:00 Is all vulnerability is good vulnerability?58:40 Redefining old friendships1:02:46 The biggest influence of therapy on our lives1:05:45 What is a good life for Jindy For further content and information check out the following: - For clips and video of the podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- Leader Brother Son website: https://www.leaderbrotherson.com/- Jindy's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jindymann/- Jindy's newsletter: https://jindymann.substack.com/Subscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel for daily clips and weekly reflections.Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the third episode of the “What is a Good Life?” podcast, I am joined by Tom Goodwin. Tom is the author of Digital Darwinism, a keynote speaker, an advisor to Fortune 500 companies and start-ups, and a commentator on the future of advertising, marketing, technology and business. He also contributes to publications such as The Guardian, TechCrunch, Forbes, and the World Economic Forum, among many others.In this episode:- Observing the oddity of knowing what is good for us, even enjoying it, and rarely making it a habit- Comparing social media and in-person communication- Questioning where we spend all this time we save by using various apps?- Exploring what Tom is both optimistic and pessimistic about regarding our use of technology- Questioning the obsession we have with the optimising of and streamlining of human behaviour- The importance of challenging our own views and not taking life so seriouslyThe point of this podcast, in general, is not to provide you with neat little Top 5 actionable takeaways, if life were simply about absorbing intellectual information, we’d all have 6 packs (if that was your thing) and live the most productive lives imaginable. The point is to curiously observe what is going on for us as humans and to bring more of our behaviour into focus, which can lead to incremental, maintainable changes over the long-term (may not sound too sexy but I’m tired of the instant nonsense, and endless lists, people are promising elsewhere).Running Order:00:00 Introduction02:00 Exploring makes me, me, what I am about04:20 We don’t get addicted to things that make us happy 07:00 Surprising how hard it is to do the things you like11:30 How Social Media and in-person communication compare15:30 Levelling up or deepening our conversations from small talk20:20 How authentic are we being in conversation and life (reading off a script)25:30 What brings Tom happiness 28:30 Seeking out different points of view31:50 VCs investing in making life more efficient without making the world better35:10 Stripping human connection out of life38:20 What innovations make Tom optimistic and pessimistic about the future with regards to technology?41:30 AI 43:50 Technology is still a mirror or a lever of human behaviour47:30 Try not to take life too seriously52:10 Stop worrying about things we can’t control54:30 Challenges to facing a good life – choosing the right thing is much harder than you think55:50 The Loop first thing in the morning – Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn – 45 mins gone58:15 What is a good life? for TomSubscribe for weekly episodes, every Tuesday, and check out my YouTube channel for daily clips and weekly reflections.For further content and information check out the following: - For clips and video of the podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

On the second episode of the “What is a Good Life?” podcast, I am joined by Nora Dietrich. Nora, is a Psychotherapist and she works with; individuals, couples, and more extensively with corporations to break Mental Health taboos, while creating healthier environments for us to work in. This episode is a great example of what I hope this podcast to be; substantive conversations around important topics, that share pertinent information and practical tips, along with personal experiences and perspectives - which help us handle these themes with more humility and humour, regarding the sometimes absurd, and paradoxical, experience of being human. Subscribe to get the latest episode every Tuesday.Running order:01:25 Podcast begins02:00 Trying to live a truly lived life07:18 Curiosity is the gateway out of perfectionism10:08 Paradoxes are to be held not solved14:20 Experimenting and failing16:25 Curiosity and feeling alive20:35 It takes 13 years on average before someone with Anxiety seeks help24:36 “How are you?” is not the right question26:43 Using pain as a guide or a clue29:08 It’s ok not to feel ok31:30 You don’t have to have the answer to help32.50 Anger can also be helpful36:50 Mental Health is not a DIY project41:20 Therapy can be ugly to start with44:20 Becoming more compassionate to others46:45 Connecting through our shadows, pain, and joy50:23 Sharing our emotions in the moment 52:31 Helpful tips for better mental healthTo find out more about Nora:- Her website: https://www.noradietrich.com/- Her LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/noradietrich/To check out more content from me:- My newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/- For clips and video of the podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videosKeywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​

In this first episode I talk to Laurence Barrett. Laurence has recently written a book, A Jungian Approach to Coaching: The Theory and Practice of Turning Leaders into People, and runs his own consultancy group, Heresy, which focusses on Psychodynamic and Jungian Leadership and Organisational Development Consulting. In this conversation we explore how the work of Carl Jung has influenced Laurence's approach to life and, amongst other things, the significance of simply paying attention in our lives. Laurence is a wonderful source of knowledge and I enjoyed this conversation immensely, and I hope you will too.For those unaware of the work of Carl Jung:Carl Jung (1875 – 1961) was a Swiss psychiatrist and psychoanalyst who founded analytical psychology. Jung's work has been influential in the fields of psychiatry, anthropology, archaeology, literature, philosophy, psychology, and religious studies.Among the central concepts of analytical psychology is individuation—the lifelong psychological process of differentiation of the self out of each individual's conscious and unconscious elements. Jung considered it to be the main task of human development. He created some of the best known psychological concepts, including synchronicity, archetypal phenomena, the collective unconscious, the psychological complex and extraversion and introversion. (Wikipedia)You can find Laurence's book here:https://www.routledge.com/A-Jungian-Approach-to-Coaching-The-Theory-and-Practice-of-Turning-Leaders/Barrett/p/book/9780367766351You can find out more about his work at Heresy here:https://heresyprogrammes.podia.com/- For clips and video of the podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@whatisagoodlife/videos- The newsletter: https://www.whatisagood.life/- My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-mccartney-14b0161b4/Keywords: Meaning of Life Interviews | meaning of life conversations | exploring life | big life questions | meaning of life discussions | creating a meaningful life​