Episodes
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Matt Zemon, MSc, an Educator, Author, and Leader in Psychedelic Wellness, specializes in the impact of psychedelics on mental health. Author of the best-selling Psychedelics for Everyone and the preparation and integration journal Beyond the Trip, he holds a Master's degree in psychology and neuroscience from King's College London. Matt combines academic insights with a passion for safe and sacred psychedelic use, focusing on broadening understanding and access to these transformative substances. Additionally, he consults with medical practitioners in psychedelic therapy, contributing his expertise to further the responsible integration of psychedelics in healthcare. His next book, The Veteran's Guide to Psychedelics, will be coming out in August.
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In the latest episode of The Mind Mate Podcast, Tom interviews Hailee, a distinguished researcher who has completed her PhD studies on flow states and intergroup conflict. In this engaging discussion, Hailee delves into the fascinating intersection of psychological flow—a state of deep focus and immersion—and its impact on reducing tension and fostering collaboration among diverse groups. She shares key insights from her research, highlighting how achieving flow can enhance creativity, productivity, and harmony within teams. Hailee also explores practical strategies for individuals and organizations to cultivate these states, ultimately promoting a more cohesive and innovative work environment.
Hailee is a creator, educator, consultant, coach, writer, and presenter with a passion for learning about people and helping them reach their full potential. She is dedicated to helping people recognize their power, purpose, and identity. Currently, she spends the majority of her work time teaching people the skills to overcome any obstacle, exist in confidence despite their fears, and unleash the divine creativity within them to establish dominion in their area of purpose. -
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In episode 211 of the "Mind Mate" podcast, I sit down with my friend Ian Cattanach for an engaging discussion. We delve into the profound ideas of Jordan Peterson, Martin Heidegger, Cormac McCarthy, and David Foster Wallace. Together, we explore the intersection of philosophy, literature, and psychology, shedding light on how these influential thinkers grapple with themes of meaning, existence, and human nature. Ian and I share our thoughts on how these ideas resonate in today's world, making for a rich and thought-provoking conversation. Join us as we navigate the complexities of these remarkable minds and their contributions to our understanding of life and consciousness.***Welcome to The Mind Mate Podcast, where philosophy meets psychology! We delve into the depths of existentialism and various meaning structures from east to west—both religious and cultural—as well as exploring the intersection of phenomenology, psychological science, art and mental health, blending philosophical insight with therapeutic practice. Expect to hear from philosophers, therapists, artists and academics navigating the frontiers of what it means to be human. Tom, your host, is a counsellor and psychotherapist who specialises in existential concerns and relationships. He is also a writer who enjoys exploring the ideas that emerge in therapy to help people live meaningful lives. Find out more here: https://ahern.blog/
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In this episode of the Mind Mate podcast, Tom and Aaron, both experienced psychotherapists, engage in a deep and dynamic discussion about the varying approaches to psychotherapy. Tom and Aaron explore the nuances of existential psychotherapy, highlighting its focus on personal meaning, freedom, and the human condition. They contrast this with clinical and research-based therapies, which emphasise empirical evidence, structured techniques, and measurable outcomes. The conversation delves into the emerging field of psychedelic therapy, examining its potential benefits and the challenges it presents. Aaron, with his extensive experience, shares insights into how psychedelics can facilitate profound therapeutic breakthroughs, while Tom provides a balanced perspective on the need for rigorous clinical research and safety protocols. Additionally, they tackle the crucial topic of relapse prevention, offering strategies and insights from both existential and clinical viewpoints. Through their engaging dialogue, Tom and Aaron provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of these diverse therapeutic modalities, shedding light on how they can be integrated to support clients’ mental health journeys. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the evolving landscape of psychotherapy and the innovative approaches that are shaping its future.
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Welcome back to the Mind Mate podcast! In this episode, Tom and Pauly dive into a lively discussion, blending humour and insight as they explore Jonathan Haidt's new book, "The Anxious Generation." Together, they unpack the book's themes, shedding light on the growing anxiety among today's youth and the societal factors contributing to this trend. The conversation then shifts to the challenges and joys of parenting in the modern era. With a mix of personal anecdotes and thoughtful analysis, Tom and Pauly discuss how modern technology and social media impact both parents and children. They offer practical advice for navigating the digital landscape, emphasising the importance of balance and mindful engagement. As the episode progresses, the discussion turns to the art of writing novels. Tom and Pauly share their experiences, offering tips and tricks for aspiring writers. They delve into the creative process, the importance of authenticity in storytelling, and the challenges of balancing writing with everyday life. Tune in for a fun, engaging, and thought-provoking episode that offers valuable insights for parents, writers, and anyone interested in understanding the complexities of our modern world.***Welcome to The Mind Mate Podcast, where philosophy meets psychology! We delve into the depths of existentialism and various meaning structures from east to west—both religious and cultural—as well as exploring the intersection of phenomenology, psychological science, art and mental health, blending philosophical insight with therapeutic practice. Expect to hear from philosophers, therapists, artists and academics navigating the frontiers of what it means to be human. Tom, your host, is a counsellor and psychotherapist who specialises in existential concerns and relationships. He is also a writer who enjoys exploring the ideas that emerge in therapy to help people live meaningful lives. Find out more here: https://ahern.blog/
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William Flesch is the author, most recently, of Comeuppance: Costly Signaling, Altruistic Punishment, and Other Biological Components of Fiction (Harvard, 2008), and The Facts on File Companion to 19th Century British Literature. He teaches the history of poetry as well as the theory of poetic and narrative form at Brandeis, and has been International Chair Professor at the National Taipei University of Technology (2012) and Old Dominion Fellow of the Humanities Council and Visiting Professor at Princeton (2014-15).***The Mind Mate podcast provides listeners with tools and ideas to get to know themselves. Psychology-based with an existential twist, the podcast delves into topics ranging from philosophy, spirituality, creativity, psychedelia and, of course, the meaning of life! Your host Tom is a counsellor and psychotherapist who specialises in existential concerns and relationships. He is also a writer who enjoys exploring the ideas that emerge in therapy to help people live meaningful lives. Find out more here: https://ahern.blog/
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Dr Julien Tempone-Wiltshire is a senior lecturer in counselling and psychotherapy, who also works as a psychotherapist specialising in complex trauma. Julien holds a PhD in Philosophy and Literature, a Master of Social Work, a Bachelors of Psychotherapy and a Bachelor of Philosophy and Science (1st Honours, ANU). He has previously worked as a lecturer in social work and integrative psychotherapy. He is also a published author with academic research interests concerning grief, trauma and contemplative studies, indigenous philosophy, psychological practice, philosophy of mind and cognitive science, amongst other subjects. ***The Mind Mate podcast provides listeners with tools and ideas to get to know themselves. Psychology-based with an existential twist, the podcast delves into topics ranging from philosophy, spirituality, creativity, psychedelia and, of course, the meaning of life! Your host Tom is a counsellor and psychotherapist who specialises in existential concerns and relationships. He is also a writer who enjoys exploring the ideas that emerge in therapy to help people live meaningful lives. Find out more here: https://ahern.blog/
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Kathleen Higgins is Professor of Philosophy at the University of Texas at Austin. Her main areas of research are aesthetics, philosophy of emotion, philosophy of music, and 19th-century and 20th century continental philosophy (in particular, the works of Arthur Schopenhauer and Friedrich Nietzsche). She is author or co-author of eight books, including, most recently, Aesthetics in Grief and Mourning (University of Chicago Press, 2024). She is also editor or co-editor of numerous other books, on such topics world philosophy, Nietzsche, German Idealism, ethics, erotic love, and the philosophy of Robert C. Solomon.***The Mind Mate podcast provides listeners with tools and ideas to get to know themselves. Psychology-based with an existential twist, the podcast delves into topics ranging from philosophy, spirituality, creativity, psychedelia and, of course, the meaning of life! Your host Tom is a counsellor and psychotherapist who specialises in existential concerns and relationships. He is also a writer who enjoys exploring the ideas that emerge in therapy to help people live meaningful lives. Find out more here: https://ahern.blog/
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Hey guys, welcome back to The Mind Mate Podcast! I'm your host, Tom Ahern, and in today's episode, we're diving deep into the fascinating world of psychotherapy through the eyes of two legendary figures: Carl Rogers and Irvin Yalom.
Carl Rogers, the mastermind behind client-centred therapy, has revolutionised the way we think about the therapeutic process. One of his most famous quotes is, "The curious paradox is that when I accept myself just as I am, then I can change." Today, we'll explore how Rogers' emphasis on unconditional positive regard, empathy, and authenticity creates a nurturing environment where clients can truly thrive and discover their genuine selves.
On the flip side, we have Irvin Yalom, a pioneer in existential psychotherapy, who brings a unique perspective on the human condition. Yalom's approach is deeply rooted in addressing fundamental human concerns like death, freedom, isolation, and meaning. He beautifully encapsulates his philosophy with the quote, "The therapist is the fellow traveler, not a master or superior; the aim is to guide the patient on a journey of self-discovery."
We'll discuss how his collaborative and humanistic approach helps individuals navigate their existential journeys.In this episode, I'll be breaking down the core principles of both Rogers' and Yalom's therapeutic goals, and how their insights can help us achieve greater self-understanding, acceptance, and fulfilment.
Whether you're a therapist, a psychology enthusiast, or someone keen on personal growth, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiration.So, sit back, relax, and join me as we uncover the transformative potential of therapy with the wisdom of Carl Rogers and Irvin Yalom.
***The Mind Mate podcast provides listeners with tools and ideas to get to know themselves. Psychology-based with an existential twist, the podcast delves into topics ranging from philosophy, spirituality, creativity, psychedelia and, of course, the meaning of life! Your host Tom is a counsellor and psychotherapist who specialises in existential concerns and relationships. He is also a writer who enjoys exploring the ideas that emerge in therapy to help people live meaningful lives. Find out more here: https://ahern.blog/
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Welcome to the latest episode of The Mind Mate Podcast! Today, we're diving deep into one of my favourite books, "The Creative Act" by the legendary Rick Rubin. Known for his transformative work in the music industry, Rubin has distilled decades of creative insights and wisdom into this compelling guide, making it an essential read for anyone looking to unlock their creative potential.In this episode, I’ll share my thoughts on the book’s most profound lessons and explore how Rubin’s philosophies can inspire and elevate our own creative journeys. From understanding the importance of vulnerability and authenticity to embracing the unexpected in our work, "The Creative Act" offers invaluable perspectives that resonate far beyond the realm of music production.Whether you're a seasoned artist or just beginning to explore your creative side, Rubin's insights provide a fresh and inspiring framework for thinking about creativity. Join me as we delve into the key takeaways from this remarkable book and discuss how we can apply these principles to our own lives. Get ready to be inspired, challenged, and motivated to take your creativity to new heights. Tune in and let’s embark on this creative adventure together!
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I am pumped for this episode of the podcast! We have a truly enlightening discussion with the pioneers of Terror Management Theory (TMT), Dr. Sheldon Solomon, Dr. Jeff Greenberg, and Dr. Tom Pyszczynski. Terror Management Theory, a groundbreaking concept in psychology, explores how humans cope with the inherent awareness of their mortality. Developed in the 1980s, this theory has significantly influenced various fields, including social psychology, anthropology, and sociology. Dr. Sheldon Solomon, Dr. Jeff Greenberg, and Dr. Tom Pyszczynski, through their extensive research and groundbreaking experiments, have uncovered profound insights into how humans navigate existential fears, shape their beliefs, and construct cultural systems to manage the terror of death. Join us as we embark on a thought-provoking journey, exploring the origins of Terror Management Theory, its implications for understanding human behaviour, and its relevance in today's world. Get ready Mind-Maters to delve into the depths of the human psyche and gain a deeper understanding of what drives our thoughts, actions, and beliefs.
Here are some of my favourite quotes from their book ‘The Worm at the Core’:
“The twin motives of affirming the correctness of our worldviews and demonstrating our personal worth combine to protect us from the uniquely human fear of inevitable death.” “Rituals, then, help manage existential terror by superseding natural processes and fostering the illusion that we control them.” “We have to believe in our own truths to sustain the precarious view that life is meaningful and that we are significant, enduring beings. “One culture is always a potential menace to another,” Becker observed, “because it is a living example that life can go on heroically within a value framework totally alien to one’s own.” If the Aborigines’ belief that magical ancestors metamorphosed into humans after becoming lizards is credible, then the idea that God created the world in six days, and Adam in his image, must be suspect.” “Yalom, following Austrian-born Israeli philosopher Martin Buber, calls it an I-thou relationship rather than an I-it one. By getting to know someone as a whole person rather than a need fulfiller, you can come to realise that the other person as just as ultimately alone as you are. But you now have that in common. Once you accept the limited knowledge you can have of each other, you can then feel close to and love someone, and be loved by them.” “Somehow we need to fashion worldviews that yield psychological security, like the rock, but also promote tolerance and acceptance of ambiguity, like the hard place.”And finally, here is their suggestion for living a good life:
“Come to terms with death. Really grasp that being mortal, while terrifying, can also make our lives sublime by infusing us with courage, compassion, and concern for future generations. Seek enduring significance through your own combination of meanings and values, social connections, spirituality, personal accomplishments, identifications with nature, and momentary experiences of transcendence. Promote cultural worldviews that provide such paths while encouraging tolerance of uncertainty and others who harbour different beliefs.”
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John Powers currently holds a joint position at the University of Melbourne in the School of Historical and Philosophical Studies and the Contemplative Studies Centre. He is a Fellow of the Australian Academy of Humanities and author of 20 books and more than 100 articles, mainly on Buddhism and Tibetan history.
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Welcome back everyone! In this podcast, we, Tom and Paul, (holistic lifestyle coach) delve into the complexities of depression, exploring its causes, symptoms, and impact on daily life. We share personal experiences and insights, emphasising the importance of recognising early signs and seeking help. We discuss the correlation between states of non-clinical depression and existential crises/midlife awakenings and opportunities as well as practical tools to manage depression, including lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, healthy eating, and mindfulness practices. We also highlight the significance of social support, self-care routines, and developing coping strategies to enhance mental well-being and resilience. We hope you enjoy the show!
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Deb Herdman is a Registered Nurse, entrepreneur and certified sleep practitioner. She is the creator of Nigh’ Nigh’, an author of two e-books and has been published in print, online, radio, and podcasts both in Australia and across the world. Deb presents sleep seminars to parent groups, health institutions, schools, and workplaces and virtual consulting to all ages that require better sleep/life balance. Opening the world’s first music and play therapy Sleep School, her resources are evidence-based and different from other resources. Deb offers Consults in home/clinic/virtual/phone anywhere in the world.
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Welcome to episode 198! In this episode Pauly and Tom touch on a multitude of topics ranging from the grief and what the brain does in response to grieving to ways to access the flow state, The boys also touch on what Pauly learnt on his trip to India as well as his silent retreat meditation experiences; why Tom is feeling called to actively practice spirituality, whether secular or religious. We hope you enjoy!
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Paul has been immersed in the Health and Wellbeing space since 2003, with extended experience in strength and conditioning, calisthenics, mobility, and stress management. Paul’s approach to training is ‘client first’ training. His experience training hundreds of people over the years has taught him that balance is the key ingredient to progress. Strength means very little without space and vice versa. It has been Paul’s mission to explore and negotiate the dynamic nature of life to move forward through movement, mind, and heart.
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Kerri Sackville is an Australian author, columnist, and social commentator. Her work has appeared in numerous publications including The Sunday Times UK, SBS Life, http://news.com.au , mamamia.com, The Australian Women’s Weekly, and Prevention Magazine. A long-time contributor to the Sydney Morning Herald, Melbourne Age and Sunday Life magazine, Kerri’s columns are regularly amongst the most widely read across the sites. Kerri has written five works of non-fiction and contributed to three anthologies. Her latest book is The Secret Life of You: How a bit of alone time can change your life, relationships, and maybe the world (Pantera, 2023). Kerri is a regular guest on ABC radio, commercial radio, and podcasts around the country. She lives in Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs with her kids and cat.
Connect with Kerri Sackville
Facebook: http://Facebook.com/Kerri.Sackville
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kerrisackville/
Connect us here
iTunes: https://apple.co/3W14wjk
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/42S3mcb
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Craig Harper is one of Australia’s leading presenters, writers and educators in the areas of health, high-performance, resilience, self-management, leadership, corporate change, communication, stress management, addiction and personal transformation. Craig has been an integral part of the Australian health and fitness industry since 1982 and in that time has worked as an Exercise Scientist, Corporate Speaker, Consultant, University Lecturer, AFL Conditioning Coach, Radio Host, TV Presenter, Writer and successful Business Owner. In 1990 Craig established Harper’s Personal Training, which evolved into one of the most successful businesses of its kind and inhabited the Australian fitness landscape for almost a quarter of a century. Craig currently hosts a successful Podcast called ‘The You Project’, is partnering with the Neuroscience Team at Monash University, exploring the spectrum of human thinking and behaviour, with a specific focus on addiction and its treatment. He’s also completing a Ph.D. in Neuropsychology.
Connect with Craig Harper
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigharpercorporate/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CraigHarperOfficial/
Website: https://www.craigharper.net/about/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/whiteboardlessons/
Connect us here
iTunes: https://apple.co/3W14wjk
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/42S3mcb
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Gary Laderman is a professor of American religious history and cultures At Emory University. He teaches and writes about death and dying, religion and sexuality, and sacred drugs. He is the author of Don’t Think About Death: A Memoir on Mortality. His other books include an exploration of the sacred in the new American religious landscape: Sacred Matters: Celebrity Worship, Sexual Ecstasies, the Living Dead, and Other Signs of Religious Life in the United States; two books on the history of death in America: The Sacred Remains: American Attitudes Toward Death, 1799-1883 and Rest in Peace: A Cultural History of Death and the Funeral Home in Twentieth-Century America.
Connect with Gary Laderman
Website: https://garyladerman.com/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/garyladerman/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/garyladerman?lang=en
Connect us here
iTunes: https://apple.co/3W14wjk
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/42S3mcb
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Dr. Margaret Ross is a senior clinical psychologist at St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne working in Psychosocial cancer care and Palliative Medicine depts. Marg is the Chief Principal Investigator for Australia's first Psilocybin assisted psychotherapy trial to treat depression and anxiety associated with terminal illness.
Connect with Dr. Margaret Ross
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margaret-ross-0aa26925a/
Connect us here
iTunes: https://apple.co/3W14wjk
Spotify: https://spoti.fi/42S3mcb
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