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  • In this thought-provoking episode, Paul sits down with Lumia Coaching Co-Founder and CEO, Noelle Cordeaux, to navigate the converging paths of human coaching and artificial intelligence. They discuss the impact of AI on coaching and therapy, diving deep into the implications of emerging technologies for the coaching profession and the broader human experience.

    The conversation examines the influence of AI on our socialization, decision-making, and the potential for systemic disruption across various sectors, including healthcare and law. Paul and Noelle explore the opportunities and challenges that arise as AI becomes more integrated into these fields, emphasizing the importance of human connection, empathy, and critical thinking in coaching. They highlight the unique skills that coaches bring to the table, stressing that as AI advances, coaches must adapt and find ways to leverage technology while maintaining the core principles of coaching. This episode offers valuable insights for coaches navigating the changing landscape of their profession, providing guidance on how to balance the integration of AI with the irreplaceable value of human-centric approaches.

    As AI rapidly advances and begins to occupy a prominent role in coaching and therapy, with systems capable of providing empathy and real-time interactions, Paul and Noelle explore the opportunities and challenges that arise. They emphasize the importance of human connection, empathy, and critical thinking in coaching, highlighting the unique skills that coaches bring to the table. The dialogue balances the utility of AI in education and advisory capacities with the irreplaceable value of human connection, nuanced understanding, and the artistry intrinsic to professional coaching.

    Noelle contemplates the psychological implications of AI integration, stressing the importance of empathy, resilience, and prime worldview. Paul presents an AI-developed tool tailored for leadership coaching, sparking a conversation around the functionalities and limitations of artificial companionship. Both advocate for a balance between embracing AI advancements and fostering human connections critical for personal and societal growth.

    As the transition to AI-powered systems in professional sectors could lead to significant displacement, the episode underscores the need for resilience and systems thinking. Noelle and Paul offer valuable insights for coaches navigating the changing landscape of their profession, emphasizing the importance of adapting and leveraging technology while maintaining the core principles of coaching. They stress that the core human skills learned in coaching, like empathy and effective communication, are crucial for navigating the challenges presented by AI integration into daily life.

    CHAPTERS

    0:05 Deciphering Emotions from a Selfie

    1:17 Coaching Evolution and AI Integration

    5:57 AI Integration's Impact on Professional Practices and Human Interaction

    10:39 AI's Impact on High-Income Jobs and Future Unemployment

    12:27 AI Disruption in Healthcare and Legal Professions

    17:17 Embracing Liberal Arts and AI for Future Human Potential

    20:22 AI's Emergence in Recursive Self-Improvement and Ethics

    23:50 Optimism and Prime Worldview Amidst Societal Divisions

    27:26 Innovating Leadership Coaching with AI Technology

    33:24 Integrating Coaching and Feedback Loops in Organizations

    36:05 Confronting Anxiety in Team Leadership and Feedback

    40:24 The Inevitable Rise of AI in Education and Beyond

    43:56 Understanding Love Through Neurobiology and Classroom Interactions

    44:37 Coaching Skills as Tools for Connection in a Digital Age

    52:53 Coaching in the Age of Technological Transformation

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  • Paul sits down with Dr. Zachary Stein to explore the future of education and the dangers of artificial intelligence (AI) in the classroom. He advocates for dismantling traditional schools and replacing them with systems that prioritize human-to-human interaction. Dr. Stein warns against humanoid AI teachers, emphasizing their potential for deception and manipulation. Instead, he proposes AI systems that enhance and refine human relationships. Additionally, he discusses the impact of AI in sectors like military and finance, emphasizing the need for a universal grammar of value to guide AI development. The episode delves into the metacrisis and the urgent need for a paradigm shift in civilization.

    Dr. Zachary Stein is a Co-Founder of the Civilization Research Institute and the Center for World Philosophy and Religion. He was trained at the interface of philosophy, psychology, and education and now works in fields related to the mitigation of global catastrophic risk. He is a widely sought-after and award-winning speaker and a leading authority on the future of education and contemporary issues in human development.

    Zak is the author of dozens of published papers and two influential books. His first book, Social Justice and Educational Measurement, traces the history of standardized testing and its ethical implications. His most recent book, Education in a Time Between Worlds, grapples with the dangers posed by a profound learning and capacity deficit in a time of civilization-wide transformation. In this work, Zak argues that educational systems must be transformed beyond recognition if humanity is to survive the planetary crises currently underway, from climate change to geopolitical instability.

    Zak sees education, in a deeply philosophical sense, as fundamental to the sustainability of civilization, with implications for each component of the "metacrisis" - the complex, interrelated global challenges and existential threats facing humanity. In Zak's view, whoever drives the technology stack of education will shape the future of civilization itself. His mission is to empower younger generations with the capacity to comprehend and respond appropriately to the unique challenges of our time.

    Connect with Dr. Zachary Stein
    Website

    EPISODE CHAPTERS

    0:01 - Envisioning an Educational Renaissance Through AI and Human Connection

    2:18 - Technological Elites and the Redesign of Society

    7:39 - BF Skinner's Influence on Societal Engineering to Prevent Existential Risks

    9:22 - Manipulation Through Digital Reinforcement and Surveillance

    11:58 - Technocracy's Struggle With Value and Control

    13:45 - Confronting Nihilism and Meaning in Education

    15:48 - Transforming American Education for Cold War Supremacy

    18:35 - Decoding the Shift in American Education and Economy

    21:59 - Debating AI's Role in Transforming Education

    25:03 - AI Socialization Threatens Millennia-Old Human Connections

    26:46 - The Ethical Dilemmas of Humanoid AI Development

    32:43 - Debating the Nature of Value and the Good Life

    34:12 - The Dual Use Dilemma of AI in Modern Technology

    35:57 - AI's Impact on Military, Finance, and Pop Culture

    39:09 - Educational Crisis and National Defense Perspectives

    43:36 - Envisioning a Renaissance in Education Through AI and Community

    48:57 - Revitalizing Education Through Community Engagement and Guild Structures

    51:06 - Distinguishing Education from Propaganda and Coercion

    55:19 - Coercion and Thought-Terminating Cliches in Social Media

    1:00:26 - Confronting Propaganda with Educational Innovation

    1:03:49 - Metacrisis Dynamics: Oscillating Between Chaos and Oppression

    1:07:04 - Redefining Civilization Within Planetary Boundaries

    1:10:37 - Rethinking Value Systems and Worldviews for Ecological Preservation

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  • Paul sits down with Elissa Strauss, a prominent journalist, essayist, and author. A leading voice in the conversation surrounding society, parenting, and caregiving for over 15 years. Her work has been featured in top-tier publications such as The New York Times, The Atlantic, Glamour, Elle, and The American Prospect, as well as on CNN and Slate's DoubleX.

    In her new book, "When You Care: The Unexpected Magic of Caring for Others," Elissa delves into the history and power of care in our lives and communities. Drawing on extensive research and her own experiences as a mother, Elissa presents a compelling case for embracing care as the key to unlocking our potential as a society. She argues that by making the invisible work of care visible and recognizing its immense value, we can transform our relationships and create a more compassionate world.

    Strauss' book has been praised by notable authors and thought leaders, with Rebecca Traister calling it "an urgent and necessary book" and Brigid Schulte describing it as "brilliantly argued and timely". Kirkus Reviews commends Strauss for her "specific, frank, refreshing observations about the impact of care".

    Beyond her writing, Strauss is actively involved in cultural programming and curation. She serves as the associate director of LABA: A Laboratory for Jewish Culture, a global artists incubator program, and is the artistic director of the LABA hub in the Bay Area. Additionally, she is the senior curator of the 2024 "California Jewish Open" at the Contemporary Jewish Museum in San Francisco. Based in Oakland, California, Strauss resides with her husband and two sons.

    Connect with Elissa Strauss
    Website • Facebook • X (Twitter) • Instagram

    Episode Chapters

    0:03 Embracing Interdependence in the Caregiving Conundrum

    4:22 Devaluing Care in Society and Personal Realizations

    6:13 Motherhood, Selfhood, and the Western Individualist Dilemma

    9:45 Valuing Caregivers Shapes Cultural Perceptions of Living

    11:51 Unveiling the Hidden Rewards of Caring for Others

    12:18 The Collective and Individual Payoffs of Caregiving

    15:21 Evolving Gender Roles in Caregiving

    16:55 Redefining Caregiving: Obligation, Desire, and Societal Support

    20:31 Embracing Dependency as a Natural Part of Life

    22:40 Empathy and Care: Essential for Human Survival

    25:41 Balancing Instant Gratification and Meaning for True Happiness

    26:30 Fostering Meaningful Connections Through Caregiving Support

    29:00 The Nuances of Offering a Coffee Break

    29:31 Understanding Asymmetry and Care in Relationships

    32:10 Addressing the Impending Challenges of an Aging Population

    34:17 Rethinking Crosswalk Timings for Pedestrian Safety

    35:31 Debating the Role of Robots in Elderly Care

    39:21 Deconstructing the Misuse of Codependency in Modern Culture

    42:52 Dissecting the Balance of Emotional Investment in Relationships

    44:40 Dissecting Interdependency and Codependency in Relationships

    49:02 Balancing Self-Investment and Empathy in Relationships

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  • Paul sits down with Caleb and Shelby Ward, Co-Founders of the World’s First Home for AI Storytellers, Curious Refuge. From western Texas to the mahogany boardrooms of Hollywood studios, Caleb and Shelby are at the center of the AI filmmaking revolution. Artists and educators first, this new generation power couple, share their thoughts and feelings on what is going to keep this technology... human.

    Curious Refuge is dedicated to those who seek to harness AI tools for crafting exceptional art, pioneering a new era in the future of storytelling. They blazed a trail with the creation of the world's first viral AI film trailer, reimagining Star Wars with the distinctive flair of Wes Anderson.

    Caleb Ward, CEO of Curious Refuge, has been a guiding force in the realm of creative arts and AI. His work, prominently featured in The Hollywood Reporter and CNBC, emphasizes the synergistic relationship between AI and indie artists. Caleb's vast contributions include over 800 articles and tutorials, influencing a broad spectrum of creators, from Oscar-winning studios to aspiring artists. His leadership at Curious Refuge embodies his passion for empowering the next wave of creative talents.

    Shelby Ward, the COO of Curious Refuge, brings her rich background in artist education in the motion design and VFX spaces. Her impactful career has involved collaboration with industry leaders such as Disney and Netflix. Shelby's commitment to building an optimistic and inclusive community aligns seamlessly with Curious Refuge's mission. Together, they create a formidable team, driving forward the integration of modern technology in artistic expression.

    Episode Chapters:

    00:06:11 Creativity and AI are transforming industries.
    00:16:00 The AI Creative Community.
    00:21:23 AI is revolutionizing content creation.
    00:25:19 The Wes Anderson Star Wars Trailer.
    00:31:26 The power of viral creativity.
    00:38:36 The Curious Refuge story.
    00:46:44 AGI best guess.

    Connect with Curious Refuge

    Star Wars by Wes Anderson Trailer | The Galactic Menagerie

    X

    Instagram

    YouTube

    Curious Refuge Website

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  • Paul sits down with Professor Timothy Morton, an eco-philosopher, artist, and author of 25 books, translated 40 times into 18 languages. They explore the connection between philosophy, ecology, spirituality, fascism, and shame. Their discussion centers on the notion that acknowledging our existence within the biosphere is a profound spiritual encounter. Professor Morton's broad range of work spans philosophy, literature, music, art, and more, resonating not only with scholars and philosophers but also with artists and creative minds who cherish the interconnectedness of the natural world.

    [00:00:35] What it is to be a life form
    [00:05:53] The jungle is a cathedral
    [00:10:12] Indigenous peoples
    [00:14:32] Appreciating the atomic structure
    [00:17:09] Recognizing our interconnectedness
    [00:23:12] The trickster quality of nature
    [00:27:18] Gender and identity exploration
    [00:30:46] Evolution and sexual selection
    [00:34:37] Rediscovering family relationships
    [00:39:40] Spiritual experiences and Kundalini
    [00:41:42] The concept of telos
    [00:45:40] The human condition of shame
    [00:50:57] Shame and self-limiting beliefs
    [00:53:09] A shame audit
    [00:57:23] Self-medication and societal energy

    Connect with Timothy Morton

    X

    Instagram

    Patreon

    Blog - ECOLOGY WITHOUT NATURE

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  • Well, it's 2023 - we made it! As we gather receipts and do an audit on times past while looking forward; I wanted to gather bits and pieces of the past year's conversations in which my guests' brilliance took us places profound, hilarious and enlightening.

    What we talked about...

    Bisexuality and coming out (with Zachary Zane)Understanding Happiness (with Tal Ben-Shahar)Undeniable wisdom from a retired sex worker (with Rylee Rabbit)the warnings about the slow rot of American authoritarianism (with Sarah Kendzior)Finding one's Self (with John Kim)How our biographies directly affect our biology (with Dr. Habib Sadeghi)Comedy and kindness (with Jeffrey Gurian)Ayahuasca and meeting our shadows (with Kat Courtney)How the Marvel Cinematic Universe is built on Trauma (with George Hahn and Dr. MC McDonald)The right to shame-free sex for all (with Rena Martine)

    This podcast will continue to grow as will the Smart Funny Tortured brand and my dedication to using my story to help others. And if a particular clip from this omnibus episode caught your attention, go back and give it a full listen. Feel free to share, leave a review wherever you listen or drop me a line, I'd love to hear from you.

    And this is where I take a moment and say "thank you". Thank you for listening and being present while I found myself and found my voice.

    My name is Paul Chamberlain and this is Smart Funny Tortured 2022 - a look back.

    May you find your people, find your pleasure, find your purpose and find your peace in 2023.

    Happy New Year everyone.

    EPISODE CHAPTERS

    Zachary Zane - Intro 2:17

    Zachary Zane - No one believed I was bisexual 3:23

    Zachary Zane - Paul coming out 4:21

    Tal Ben-Shahar - Intro 7:30

    Tal Ben-Shahar - What is Happiness Not? 8:36

    Tal Ben-Shahar - Happiness is a continuum 9:59

    Rylee Rabbit - Intro 11:01

    Rylee Rabbit - You gotta find things that are beautiful in people 11:51

    Rylee Rabbit - Shame is the supervillain 13:09

    Sarah Kendzior Intro 15:46

    Sarah Kendzior - Breitbart Ass Kicking 17:16

    Sarah Kendzior - I'm not your mom! 23:22

    John Kim - Intro 23:58

    John Kim - Not a typical therapist 29:09

    John Kim - Self is the most important thing 31:33

    Dr. Habib Sadeghi Intro 33:30

    Dr. Habib Sadeghi - Our biographies are our biology 35:59

    Dr. Habib Sadeghi - Good Medicine is bad business 37:23

    Jeffrey Gurian - Intro 40:24

    Jeffrey Gurian - Everything that happens to me is my path 41:57

    Jeffrey Gurian - Comedy became his remedy 45:20

    Kat Courtney - Intro 53:03

    Kat Courtney - UFC Fighter, Ayahuasca and his truth 54:49

    Kat Courtney - Giving back to the medicine and the people 56:45

    Marvel Traumatic Universe Intro 58:19

    Marvel Traumatic Universe - George's stepdad...the superhero 1:01

    Marvel Traumatic Universe - When we can't be superheroes in the face of trauma 1:03

    Rena Martine - Intro 1:06

    Rena Martine - The true elements for great sex 1:07

    Rena Martine - ENM and the 5 W's 1:08

    Goodbye 2022 1:10

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  • What is the Christmas season without thinly veiled trauma and dysfunction in the form of beloved animated family television specials? With the help of trauma research professor, Dr. MC McDonald, sex/love addiction coach, Sean Cardinalli and Life Coach, Carllie Jaxxen, we take an irreverent but nostalgic look at the classic Rankin Bass Christmas Specials: Rudolph The Red-Nosed Reindeer, Frosty The Snowman, Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town and The Year Without a Santa Claus.

    Follow MC McDonald on Instagram: @emseyphd
    Read MC McDonald on Medium
    Visit MC McDonald, PhD Alchemy Coaching
    Listen to the Trauma Tapes podcast hosted by MC McDonald

    Follow Sean Cardinalli on Instagram: @seancardinalli

    Follow Carllie Jaxxen on Instagram: @carlliemusings

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  • Paul sits down with women's intimacy coach and former sex crimes prosecutor, Rena Martine to discuss ethical non-monogamy (ENM) and her mission to help women love their bodies, experience deep intimacy and have great sex, shame-free.

    Rena Martine is a fascinating and dynamic woman who, at first glance at her career track from then to now, could be seen as a massive divergence. But upon closer examination, her evolution is both logical and beautiful.

    Rena Martine was a Los Angeles County Deputy District Attorney for 14 years, where she specialized in sex crimes, child abuse and domestic violence cases. She continues to serve women today as an intimacy coach, educator, TEDx speaker and author.

    She holds a Juris Doctor from Loyola Law School, where she was also a law review editor and twice-published author. She graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from California State University Los Angeles and also holds a certificate in Positive Psychology through the University of Pennsylvania. She is a Certified Life Coach through Lumia Coaching and recognized as a Master Coach by High Impact Coaching, an international community of the world's top coaches.

    Episode Chapters

    Fantasies - 4:10
    Who was and is Rena Martine - 10:00
    The inequity of morality - 13:16
    The true elements of pleasurable and authentic sex - 16:21
    Monogamy falling away - 20:33
    ENM & Polyamory 101 - 20:56
    Polyamory defined - 26:11
    The 5 W's of Polyamory - 32:55
    Dismantling trauma within a relationship - 35:31
    27 sex bucket list questions - 40:17
    Coming back from infidelity/lack of trust - 43:23

    Connect with Rena

    Instagram

    Twitter

    RenaMartine.com

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  • The Marvel Cinematic Universe isn’t powered by vibranium, sorcery or infinity stones...it's powered by trauma and grief. With the help of research professor, Dr. MC McDonald and the incomparably urbane satirist, George Hahn, we break down how the MCU has pulled off a superhuman feat in depicting the impact of these very human experiences.

    In honor of the release of Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Paul, MC and George take an informed heartfelt look at Avengers: Infinity War, Avengers: Endgame, WandaVision and the latest MCU installment of the Black Panther saga. While laughing a lot and crying a little, they identify where the Avengers are in their own healing process and why these characters mean so much to us and give us one more way to heal.

    MaryCatherine (MC) McDonald, PhD, is a research professor and life coach who specializes in the psychology of stress, and resilience. She has been researching, lecturing, and publishing on stress-based neuroscience, psychology, and lived experience since 2011. She is passionate about destigmatizing mental health issues in general, as well as reframing our understanding of mental health in order to better understand and treat it.

    Given the spot-on designation of “Urban Raconteur” by the New York Times, George Hahn is a multi-talented satirist, sartorialist and non-conformist mid-century modernist who is a force of nature on all media including his eponymous online magazine and podcast. He can also be found almost daily, live-streaming his hilariously charming and intimate morning walks through Central Park with his dogs.

    Episode Chapters
    Which Avenger is more traumatized than the other 5:31
    Hawkeye and Moral Injury 14:39
    Finding meaning 21:49
    Emotional vulnerability 33:30
    The Hulk and Internal Family Systems 35:4
    Marvel trauma collateral damage 46:57
    We are all damaged people 56:44
    Different speeds of grieving 1:21:51

    Follow George Hahn on Instagram: @georgehahn
    Follow George Hahn on Twitter: @georgehahn
    Visit GeorgeHahn.com
    Listen to the George Hahn Podcast

    Follow MC McDonald on Instagram: @emseyphd
    Read MC McDonald on Medium
    Visit MC McDonald, PhD Alchemy Coaching
    Listen to the Trauma Tapes podcast hosted by MC McDonald

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  • Kat Courtney is a woman of exceptional power, perspective and wisdom.

    She is an 18 year veteran of Plant Medicines: Meaning she has been traditionally trained to administer the psychedelic medicinal brew Ayahuasca and the botanical cousin of Peyote, Huachuma or San Pedro cactus. She is an integration coach and her expertise extends to crises of the soul and addiction recovery. And she is an author with her first book out now, The Plant Medicine Mystery School Volume 1: The Superhero Healing Powers of Psychotropic Plants. She is a certified Death Doula honored to help people make peace with the inevitable and beautiful transition into the afterlife.

    Kat trained for almost 12 years, drinking in hundreds and hundreds of plant ceremonies. She completed 22 master plant dietas to date, including a 9 month dieta and a full year deep dive, and she has held a Master Level Reiki certification for over a decade. Now, Kat pours medicine in places like Peru and Costa Rica many times a year, leads master plant dietas both in person and remotely, and assists with preparation and integration of psychedelics in conjunction with major life events.

    Specific to this podcast, Kat is yet another member of the “Save Paul Team” in that she was there at the beginning of my journey to where I am today. I remember the very first time I spoke with her. I thought I would be going to see her in person and have to walk through a beaded doorway into a cloud of incense. That’s how cynical and naive I was. What happened is that I sat in my car, in a parking lot, in a Vegas downpour talking to a woman on my cell who told me it was going to be okay by instilling in me confidence through her own story of redemption and purpose. An hour and a half later, I was in…and about to enter the world of Pachamama/Mother Ayahuasca with Kat, as my guide.

    Episode Chapters

    It all started over salads 4:55

    We support each other at playing small 15:13

    The Science of Ayahuasca 19:59

    Sacrament 26:19

    Kat's Arrest 28:51

    Integration Explained 45:15

    Fighting the Authentic Self 48:21

    Huachuma 52:04

    Death Doula 57:11

    Connect with Kat

    Instagram

    TheAfterlifeCoach

    PlantMedicinePeople

    YouTube

    Plant Medicine People

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  • Paul sits down with Jeffrey Gurian to talk about being one of the most beloved people in the world of comedy, self-limiting beliefs and picking the right outfit before the ambulance arrives.

    People often refer to him as a “Renaissance Man”, because he’s involved in so many things. But he’s really a Mensch. A wonderful Yiddish term that defines a person as someone who can be relied upon to act with honor and integrity. Who is kind and considerate; admired within the small circle who know them well.

    Well, that small circle includes people like Jimmy Fallon, Chelsea Handler, Chris Rock, Amy Schumer and so many more. I have personally witnessed the biggest stars in comedy stopping in their tracks to hug and chat with Jeffrey while the craziness of a red carpet swirls around them.

    He was a former Cosmetic Dentist and Clinical Professor at New York University where he taught and lectured for 12 years. He is an author with eight books: three on comedy, five on motivation and happiness. He’s the host of Comedy Matters TV, a YouTube channel sporting millions of views along with being a regular on Sirius XM’s Bennington Show.

    Above all, he is a survivor. Of both a widow maker heart attack and the deadly New York City 2020 Covid wave that almost took him out. He has battled his own demons which only seem to make him more empathetic, quirky and generous. He was there when I was battling mine and stood by when others didn’t. I will never forget that. He is one of kindest and most interesting people I have ever met and now you get that pleasure as well.

    Follow Jeffrey Gurian on Instagram: @jeffreygurian
    Follow Jeffrey Gurian on Twitter: @JeffreyGurian
    Visit Comedy Matters TV

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  • Paul sits down with Dr. Habib Sadeghi to talk about love, medicine and what we can do to regain our health and happiness despite a broken medical system.

    It’s fair to say that one area of our life where we find ourselves tortured is when we have to navigate the traditional American medical system for ourselves or a loved one. Enduring the feeling that we are only to be quickly seen, prescribed and dispatched to the next test, doctor or calendar year.

    Imagine having a doctor who listened to you. Who was inquisitive from the start to not only know about your condition but you as a person. Someone who embraced your story with love and compassion to not only treat you with conventional medicine, but also applying other modalities of medicine that acknowledge what the body and mind is capable of when we feel safe, heard and genuinely taken care of.

    Dr. Habib Sadeghi is that doctor.

    He is the founder of Be Hive of Healing, an integrative medical center based in Los Angeles. He specializes in multi-disciplinary treatment for chronic illnesses that include osteopathic, anthroposophical, environmental, psychosomatic, family, and German new medicine, as well as clinical pharmacology. He served as an attending Physician and Clinical Facilitator at UCLA-Santa Monica Medical Center and is currently a Clinical Instructor of Family Medicine at Western University of Health Sciences. He is the author of two books, The Clarity Cleanse: 12 steps to finding renewed energy, spiritual fulfillment and emotional healing, and Within: A spiritual awakening to love & weight loss. Dr.Sadeghi is also a regular contributor to Goop, CNN, BBC News and the Huffington Post, and is the publisher of the health and well-being journal, MegaZEN.

    Full disclosure: Doctor Sadeghi is my doctor.

    You’ll hear my story and how I ended up in his care. Sorry to say it is an all too common scenario for a lot of people. And heads up - this is the first interview I’ve done in person for the podcast - No Zoom. An issue with my mic has me sounding a little sub-par, but my guest sounds great, so enjoy.

    Visit Love Button Global Movement
    Visit The Be Hive of Healing

    Host: Paul Chamberlain
    Guest: Dr. Habib Sadeghi
    Produced by: Cerebral Itch Labs

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  • Paul sits down with The Angry Therapist, John Kim, LMFT to talk about finding Self, the power of Coaching and how motorcycles, CrossFit and donuts made it all better.

    In a departure from the usual format, Paul sets up the interview by sharing his very personal connection to one of John’s books (I Used to Be a Miserable F*ck) and how it helped him during an extremely dark time*. Spoiler alert: there’s a happy ending for everyone on this episode.

    John Kim, LMFT, (AKA The Angry Therapist) and co-founder of Lumia, pioneered the online life coaching movement. A decade ago, John Kim's divorce led to his total re-birth and he became an unconventional therapist and life coach by working out of the box and growing his audience of like-minded people from the ground up. John's books The Angry Therapist’s No BS Guide to Finding and Living Your Own Truth, I Used to Be a Miserable F*ck: An Everyman's Guide to a Meaningful Life and Single. On Purpose. have inspired thousands to change their lives.


    Follow John Kim on Instagram: @TheAngryTherapist
    Follow John Kim on Twitter: @AngryTherapist
    Follow John Kim on TikTok: @TheAngryTherapist
    Subscribe to John Kim on YouTube: The Angry Therapist
    Visit TheAngryTherapist.com
    Visit Lumia Coaching

    Host: Paul Chamberlain
    Guest: John Kim
    Produced by: Cerebral Itch Labs

    *If you or someone you know is suicidal, help is available - National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
    Available 24 hours. Languages: English, Spanish - 800-273-8255

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  • Paul sits down with best-selling author and scholar, Sarah Kendzior to talk about staying vigilant while trying to enjoy life’s simple pleasures as authoritarianism and corruption continues to accelerate.

    Sarah Kendzior darkly refers to herself on Twitter as a non-fiction horror writer. That description, while hilarious, is spot on. She is also a journalist, holds a PhD in anthropology and a Masters in Central Eurasian Studies focusing on the authoritarian states of the former Soviet Union.

    Her two books, The View From Flyover Country and Hiding In Plain Sight are celebrated bestsellers and must reads for anyone wanting to understand the decline and abandonment of the Heartland and then the machinations behind the ascension of American Autocracy in the form of the Trump Family. Her upcoming book, They Knew explores the United States’ “culture of conspiracy,”. She is also co-host of Gaslit Nation, a weekly podcast which covers corruption in all things Trump and the rise of authoritarianism around the world. It is one of the most riveting sources of information about Putin and the invasion of Ukraine. She was named by Foreign Policy as one of the “100 people you should be following on Twitter to make sense of global events.”

    Her reporting has been featured in many publications, including NBC News, The Guardian, The Atlantic, Fast Company, The Chicago Tribune, Al Jazeera, The Globe and Mail, and The New York Times.

    Sarah was on the original guest wishlist for this podcast. Because despite all the bylines and numerous television appearances handing out undeniable truths about authoritarian tactics, racism and xenophobia, the state of media and voting rights - she’s also a thoughtful artist, a rabid Guns N Roses fan, and a Mom who enjoys life’s simple pleasures in her beloved adopted hometown of St.Louis, MO.

    "Both prescient and honest...seeing the roots of the arguments that now dominate cable news is both fascinating and a little bit haunting in retrospect." ―NPR

    “Kendzior is no psychic. She’s just whip-smart and an expert on authoritarian governments. She’s also that rare writer with an analyst’s brain and an empath’s heart.” ―STEFENE RUSSELL, ST. LOUIS MAGAZINE

    Follow Sarah Kendzior on Twitter: @SarahKendzior
    Visit SarahKendzior.com

    Host: Paul Chamberlain
    Guest: Sarah Kendzior
    Produced by: Cerebral Itch Labs

    Clips featured in this episode:

    Cult of Personality (7" Version) - Living Colour
    Writers: Corey Glover, William Calhoun, Muzz Skillings, Vernon Reid

    The Stand—Original Series Soundtrack
    music by: Nathaniel Walcott and Mike Mogis

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  • Paul sits down with Rylee Rabbit to talk about sex work, entrepreneurial hustle and finding things that are beautiful in people.

    Through sheer resourcefulness, fearlessness and grit she has grown her Rylee Rabbit brand into a budding enterprise with over a million followers across multiple platforms while employing several creatives and becoming an advocate for her industry and the health and welfare of those who work in it.

    Follow Rylee Rabbit on Instagram: @downtherabbithole.tv
    Follow Rylee Rabbit on Twitter: @MsRyleeRabbit
    Visit RyleeRabbit.com

    Host: Paul Chamberlain
    Guest: Rylee Rabbit
    Produced by: Cerebral Itch Labs
    Special Thanks to Jake Gallen

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  • Paul sits down with best-selling author and lecturer, Tal Ben-Shahar to discuss the science of happiness, how to become happier and how the pursuit of happiness is all wrong.

    Tal Ben-Shahar taught two of the largest classes in Harvard University’s history, "Positive Psychology" and "The Psychology of Leadership." His books have been translated into more than thirty languages, and have appeared on best-seller lists around the world. His latest books are “Happiness Studies” and “Happier, No Matter What.”

    Tal consults and lectures to executives in multinational corporations, the general public, and at-risk populations. The topics he lectures on include leadership, education, ethics, politics, happiness, self-esteem, resilience, goal setting, and mindfulness. He is the co-founder and chief learning officer of The Happiness Studies Academy and Potentialife.

    An avid sportsman, Tal won the U.S. Intercollegiate and Israeli National squash championships. He obtained his PhD in Organizational Behavior and BA in Philosophy and Psychology from Harvard.

    Follow Tal Ben-Shahar on Instagram: @happiness.studies.academy

    Follow Tal Ben-Shahar on Facebook: Happiness Studies Academy

    Visit The Happiness Studies Academy

    For more episodes of Smart Funny Tortured visit SmartFunnyTortured.com

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  • Despite more and more people identifying as bisexual, stigmas remain, leaving many not feeling fully accepted by their communities. This includes your host. During my interview, Zachary Zane held a special space where I felt safe to finally come out and present my authentic self to the world. I never thought that when I did do it, I would be recording and distributing it on the Internet; but here we are...Smart, Funny and a little less Tortured.

    16:30 - Paul comes out
    19:40 - When Zachary came to terms with being bisexual
    37:00 - Zachary goes to the White House
    39:15 - The challenges and needs specific to bisexuality

    Zachary Zane is a Brooklyn-based columnist, sex expert, and activist whose work focuses on sexuality, lifestyle, culture, and the LGBTQ community. He currently has a sex advice column at Men's Health titled "Sexplain It" and a relationship column at Queer Majority titled "Zach and the City." His work has been published in the New York Times Rolling Stone, The Washington Post, GQ, Playboy, Slate, Cosmo, Bustle, VICE, NBC, Dazed, The Daily Beast, and many others. He is the founder and editor-in-chief of BOYSLUT Zine, which publishes real, first-person sex stories from kinksters across the globe.

    He was formerly a digital associate editor at OUT Magazine and a contributing editor at Pride.com, Plus Magazine, and The Advocate Magazine.

    As a leading bisexual activist, Zane has spoken across the country at universities and panels alike, discussing issues pertaining to the bisexual community, sex-positivity, and ethical non-monogamy. He previously had a biweekly column at Bisexual.org that ran for 18 months.

    He attended the "Bisexual White House Briefing" at the White House (under Obama), and has been featured as an expert on a number of podcasts including Dan Savage's "The Savage Lovecast."

    Copyright © 2022 • Cerebral Itch Labs, LLC / Smart Funny Tortured • All Rights Reserved

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  • James Bond is smart, funny, tortured: Paul and George Hahn explain why and also list their favorite and not-so-favorite franchise elements

    In honor of the long overdue release of No Time To Die--the 25th installment of the James Bond franchise--Paul sits down with fellow 007 megafan, George Hahn, to discuss why the ever-evolving, functional alcoholic crack-shot misogynist remains a titan of pop culture. Hahn, a celebrated satirist, sartorialist and urban raconteur, joins Paul to indulge their shared appreciation by ranking the best and worst elements of Bond, from favorite films, best opening themes and worst lines from sixty years of James Bond adventures.

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  • Paul sits down with Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, Jonathan Capehart to talk about being black, gay, finding the gray, and the day when America was as close as it ever was to realizing its national ideals.

    Jonathan Capehart is anchor of “The Sunday Show with Jonathan Capehart” on MSNBC. He is also an opinion writer and editorial board member of The Washington Post, where he hosts the “Cape Up” podcast and anchors Washington Post Live’s “First Look,” and a commentator on “The PBS Newshour.”

    Follow Jonathan Capehart on Instagram: @CapehartJ
    Follow Jonathan Capehart on Twitter: @CapehartJ
    Visit The Sunday Show with Jonathan Capehart
    Visit The PBS News Hour - Brooks and Capehart
    Listen to Cape Up with Jonathan Capehart

    Host: Paul Chamberlain
    Guest: Jonathan Capehart
    Produced by: Cerebral Itch Labs
    Engineered & Edited by: April Winchell

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  • Paul sits down with Paul Williams to talk about never not being starstruck, three decades of sobriety and why his heart is the fullest it has ever been.

    Paul Williams is one of the most beloved and respected music creators in the world today. A lyricist and composer who has won an Oscar Award, three Grammy Awards, two Golden Globe Awards and earned induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame, his songs, from “We’ve Only Just Begun,” “Rainy Days and Mondays” and “You and Me Against the World” to “An Old Fashioned Love Song,” “Let Me Be the One” and “The Rainbow Connection,” have touched millions of people for generations.

    Follow Paul Williams on Instagram: @paulielama2
    Follow Paul Williams on Twitter: @IMPaulWilliams
    Visit paulwilliamsofficial.com
    Read Gratitude and Trust” Six Affirmations That Will Change Your LIfe by Paul Williams and Tracey Jackson

    Host: Paul Chamberlain
    Guest: Paul Williams
    Produced by: Cerebral Itch Labs
    Engineered & Edited by: April Winchell

    Clips featured in this episode:

    © 2021 Recording Academy - Grammy AwardsDaft Punk, Nile Rodgers, Paul Williams, and Pharrell Williams accept the GRAMMY for Album Of The Year at the 56th GRAMMY Awards on Jan. 26, 2014, in Los Angeles.

    "We've Only Just Begun" written by Roger Nichols (music) and Paul Williams (lyrics)Performed by Paul Williams

    The Apology Song from The Book of Life (2014)Lyric by Paul Williams and Music by Gustavo Santaolalla
    Performed by Diego Luna

    49th Academy Awards - 1977 Oscars© 2021 Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences

    "Rainbow Connection" - The Muppet Movie, written by Paul Williams (lyrics) and Kenneth Ascher (music). Performed by Lance Allen - www.guitarlancer.com

    "I Won't Last a Day Without You" written by Paul Williams (lyrics) and Roger Nichols (music)Performed by Paul Williams

    The Muppet Show (1976) - Episode 108
    Jim Henson and Paul Williams

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