The Weekend University
The Weekend University features in-depth interviews with leading thinkers at the intersection of psychology, neuroscience, culture, and spirituality. The show aims to reduce suffering, upgrade perspectives, and realize more potential. It seeks to foster a greater sense of awe, meaning, and connection in everyday life. New episodes are released every Thursday.
Episodes
Owen Barfield, Imagination, & The Evolution of Consciousness - Mark Vernon and Peter Hawkins
This episode features a conversation between Dr. Mark Vernon and Professor Peter Hawkins. This discussion is part of a series that Peter will be doing with some of the major thinkers and writers of our time, focusing on the necessary evolution of human consciousness, for humans to be future-fit to live on this planet in a way that makes a net-positive contribution to the wider ecology. The series
"Creating" Clients, Scaling Intimacy, & The 7 Levels of Listening - Rich Litvin
Rich Litvin is a master coach with over 20 years experience, an entrepreneur, and the bestselling author of the Prosperous Coach - a book he co-wrote with Steve Chandler in 2013.
In this conversation, we explore:
— Why creating value should be your focus rather than "making a name for yourself"
— The power of "scaling intimacy" rather than scaling your business
— Why Rich coaches for insight
Understanding Eating Disorders Through Attachment Theory — Rachel Lewis-Marlow
Rachel is a somatically integrative psychotherapist, dually licensed in counseling and therapeutic massage and bodywork. She is a Certified Advanced Practitioner in Sensorimotor Psychotherapy and has extensive experience working with eating disorders.
You’ll learn:
— The difference between protection and safety and why this matters when treating eating disorders
— Rachel’s view of eating diso
Uncomfortable Conversations, Widening Time Horizons, & The 4 Moves of Strategy - Dr. Keita Demming
Dr. Keita Demming is a coach, complexity theorist, and author of "Strategy to Action: Running Your Business Without Running You." Based in Toronto, he works with entrepreneurs and leaders to help them navigate complex challenges through powerful conversations and strategic thinking.
In this conversation, we explore:
— Why conversation is the action that precedes all meaningful change
— How to m
Joy Tracking, Transforming Consciousness, and Living a Remarkably Charmed Life — Dr. Martha Beck
In this episode, I'm joined by Dr. Martha Beck, a Harvard-trained sociologist, and bestselling author who is widely regarded as the world’s leading life coach.
Martha has written six New York Times bestsellers and is currently working on her new book, "The Pyramid and the Pool," which explores the collapse of hierarchical social structures and what might replace them.
In this conversation, we ex
Rupert Sheldrake & Peter Hawkins-Morphic Resonance, Science & Spiritual Practices, The Extended Mind
This episode features a conversation between Dr. Rupert Sheldrake and Professor Peter Hawkins. This discussion is part of a series that Peter will be doing with some of the major thinkers and writers of our time, focusing on the necessary evolution of human consciousness, for humans to be future-fit to live on this planet in a way that makes a net-positive contribution to the wider ecology. The se
Getting Paid to Play, Writing Nonfiction, & Tapping Your “Character Diamond” — Charlie Hoehn
Charlie Hoehn is a marketing strategist, bestselling author, and expert on book publishing who has worked with some of the world's most successful authors, including Tim Ferriss, Codie Sanchez, and Ramit Sethi. After overcoming debilitating anxiety through the power of play, Charlie wrote "Play It Away: A Workaholic's Cure for Anxiety," which became a viral sensation and helped countless people re
Is AI Shrinking Human Agency? — Jacob Ward
In this interview, Niall speaks with Jacob Ward, former editor-in-chief of Popular Science and technology correspondent for Al Jazeera and NBC News. Jacob is the author of “The Loop”, and creator of the “Hacking Your Mind”.
In this conversation, they explore:
— How AI may shape our decisions in the same way tools like Google Maps changed how we navigate
— How behavioural science is used to mak
The Hidden Drivers of Polarisation: Why People Become Radicalised — Dr. Joel Vos
In this episode, Niall speaks with Dr. Joel Vos, a researcher and psychotherapist who specialises in meaning in life, existential psychology, and the roots of polarisation and extremism.
Dr. Vos has conducted research at universities across Europe and has worked directly with individuals involved in political movements and radical groups. His work brings together academic research and real-world
Boyd Varty — A Lion Tracker’s Guide to Presence, Purpose, and Self Transformation
In this episode, Niall speaks with Boyd Varty, a wildlife tracker, storyteller, and author of the bestselling books “Cathedral of the Wild”, and “The Lion Tracker’s Guide to Life”. Boyd grew up at Londolozi Game Reserve in South Africa, where he learned the ancient art of tracking from master Shangaan trackers.
In this conversation, they explore:
— How a near-death experience at eighteen reveale
The Deeper Truths Hidden Inside Christianity — Aaron Abke
In this interview, Niall speaks with Aaron Abke, an author and spiritual teacher who left a career in ministry to pursue a deeper understanding of consciousness and spiritual awakening.
After what he describes as a transformative two-week period where he was “incapable of suffering,” Aaron devoted his life to understanding freedom from suffering and helping others find it.
In this conversation,
Healing Traumatic Attachment Patterns — Dr. Janina Fisher
In this interview, I’m joined by Dr Janina Fisher — a clinical psychologist, author, and former trainer at Harvard Medical School. She is the developer of Trauma Informed Stabilization Treatment and widely regarded as a leading pioneer in the field of attachment and trauma-informed care. This conversation focuses on how Janina's insights and approach can be applied to working with traumatic attach
Dr. Christof Koch - Exploring the Further Reaches of Human Consciousness
In this episode, Niall speaks with Dr. Christof Koch, Chief Scientist of the MindScope Program at the Allen Institute for Brain Science, former Professor at Caltech, and author of “Then I Am Myself the World”. Dr. Koch is a leading researcher in the science of consciousness and a key proponent of Integrated Information Theory.
In this conversation, they explore:
— Why consciousness may be fundam
Integrative Attachment Therapy — Dr. David Elliott
Dr. David Elliott is a clinical psychologist, former president of the Rhode Island Psychological Association, and Harvard graduate.
He teaches internationally on attachment, personality, and psychotherapy process, and is the co-author of Attachment Disturbances in Adults.
In this conversation, we explore:
— The ‘ideal parent figure’ method and how it can be applied to heal attachment wounds
What Neurosurgery Taught Me About Materialism, Consciousness, and Free Will — Dr. Michael Egnor
In this episode, Niall speaks with Dr. Michael Egnor, a professor of neurosurgery at Stony Brook University who has performed over 7,000 brain operations. He is also director of the neurosurgery residency program and has published extensively on the relationship between mind and brain.
In this conversation, they explore:
— Why decades of brain mapping research suggest that reason and free will c
Navigating “Possession” in Psychotherapy — Robert Falconer
In this episode, Niall speaks with Robert Falconer, a writer, consultant, and teacher who has spent nearly two decades working with complex psychological experiences that sit outside conventional therapeutic frameworks.
Robert is the author of ten books and specialises in working with people experiencing what Internal Family Systems calls “unattached burdens” — intrusive psychological patterns th
Behavioural Coaching, Meaning-Making, and Finding the Middle Way — Eric Zimmer
Get Your Copy of Eric's New Book: https://www.oneyoufeed.net/book/
In this episode, I speak with Eric Zimmer— a behavioural coach, podcast host, and writer—whose work blends spirituality with the science of behaviour change. Eric is best known as the host of the award winning “One You Feed Podcast”.
In this conversation, we explore:
— Why lasting change requires both inner and outer transforma
Was Jesus Really Teaching Nonduality? - Cynthia Bourgeault
In this episode, Niall speaks with Cynthia Bourgeault, an Episcopal priest, author, and teacher of contemplative practice and the Wisdom tradition. She is the author of multiple books, and has spent decades exploring the relationship between Christian mysticism and consciousness transformation.
In this conversation, they explore:
— Why the discovery of the Nag Hammadi texts suggests a more diver
Healing Addiction with Internal Family Systems — Marc Lewis and Cece Sykes
In this episode, Niall speaks with Professor Marc Lewis and Cece Sykes about addiction, Internal Family Systems therapy, and the neuroscience of behavioural change.
Professor Lewis is a neuroscientist and professor emeritus at the University of Toronto, specialising in developmental psychology and addiction. He is the author of “Memoirs of an Addicted Brain” and “The Biology of Desire”.
Cece is
Caroline Myss: Archetypes, Seeking Divine Guidance, & Co-Creating a Better World
In this episode, Niall speaks with Caroline Myss, a five-time New York Times bestselling author and internationally recognised teacher in human consciousness and medical intuition.
Caroline has spent decades exploring the relationship between biography, consciousness, and the patterns that shape human experience. Her work brings together mystical theology, archetypal psychology, and the question
Vagus Nerve Stimulation: The Future of Mental & Physical Health? — Dr. Kevin Tracey
In this episode, Niall speaks with Dr. Kevin Tracey, a neurosurgeon, inventor, researcher, and author of “The Great Nerve”, who leads the Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research.
Dr. Tracey's research has shown how the vagus nerve connects the brain and immune system, controlling inflammation in the body. His work has led to FDA-approved treatments for rheumatoid arthritis and may help with dep
Vulnerable Narcissism: The #1 Barrier to Self Actualisation — Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman
In this episode, Niall speaks with Dr. Scott Barry Kaufman, a cognitive scientist, humanistic psychologist, and author of “Rise Above”.
Scott has spent his career redefining human potential and helping people overcome limiting beliefs. Despite being placed in special education as a child due to an auditory learning disability, he earned his PhD and is now one of the most cited psychologists in th
Building Existential Resilience — Yannick Jacob
In this episode, Niall speaks with Yannick Jacob, an existential coach, philosopher, and educator with over 15 years of coaching experience.
Yannick helps people explore the deeper philosophical questions behind everyday life. His approach blends existential philosophy with practical coaching to develop what he calls “existential resilience.”
In this conversation, they explore:
— How big existe
The Science of Changing Your Personality — Olga Khazan
In this episode, Niall speaks with Olga Khazan, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of “Weird” and “Me, But Better”.
Drawing on research and personal experimentation, Olga shows how our personalities are more flexible than we often realise—and how intentional change can lead to greater fulfilment and success.
In this conversation, they explore:
— Why personality change often starts with l
Socrates, Cognitive Flexibility, & Why Modern "Self Help" is Ruining Lives — Donald Robertson
Donald Robertson is a cognitive-behavioural psychotherapist, author, and a leading expert on ancient Stoic philosophy and its modern applications. Originally from Scotland and now based in Canada, he has spent his career examining how ancient philosophy can help address modern psychological challenges.
In this episode, Niall speaks with Donald about his book: “How to Think Like Socrates” and the
Consciousness Beyond Death: Findings from 20 Years of LSD Research — Christopher Bache
In this episode, Niall speaks with Dr. Christopher Bache about his 20-year exploration of consciousness, including 73 high-dose LSD sessions undertaken as part of a disciplined, structured inquiry. Dr. Bache is a Professor of Philosophy and Religious Studies at Youngstown State University.
Dr. Bache’s journey moved beyond personal healing into encounters with collective consciousness and what he
Can Community Heal Addiction? - Dr. Sherif Darwish Abdalla
Dr. Sherif Darwish Abdalla is a consultant psychiatrist and addiction therapist. He is the Co-Founder of Recovery Egypt, one of the leading treatment and rehabilitation centres in North Africa.
He has publications in many international Journals, including the European Journal of Psychiatry. In this conversation, we explore:
— Dr Darwish’s radical approach to recovery and how it goes against man
The Easiest Way to Nondual Consciousness — Richard Lang
Richard Lang is a philosopher, author, and the leading proponent of the "Headless Way" – a method of self-inquiry first developed by Douglas Harding. After meeting Harding at age 17 in 1970, Richard has spent over five decades exploring, practising, and sharing the Headless Way Approach.
In this conversation, we explore:
— The revolutionary insight that you cannot see your own head, and what thi
Overcoming High Functioning Depression & Reclaiming Joy - Dr. Judith Joseph
Dr. Judith Joseph is a board-certified psychiatrist, neuroscientist, and author of "High Functioning." As the lead researcher behind the world's first peer-reviewed study on high-functioning depression, Dr. Judith’s work focuses on helping people recognize and address depression before it leads to breakdown.
In this conversation, we explore:
— What high-functioning depression is and why it often
Why Psychotherapy Works - Dr. Louis Cozolino, PhD
Dr Lou Cozolino - a clinical psychologist, author and professor based in Beverly Hills, California. He received his Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from UCLA and an M.T.S. from Harvard University. He has been a Professor at Pepperdine since 1986 and lectures around the world on psychotherapy, neuroscience, trauma, and attachment. The work that I do for The Weekend University means I get to explore a
Donald Hoffman & Iain McGilchrist - Is Consciousness Fundamental?
In this episode, I’m joined by two pioneers at the forefront of reshaping our understanding of human consciousness - Professor Donald Hoffman and Dr Iain McGilchrist.
Despite coming from very different backgrounds, they’ve both arrived at surprisingly similar conclusions about some of life’s biggest questions and the nature of reality. This conversation explores the parallels—and differences—in
Federico Faggin: Merging Science & Spirituality, Quantum Physics, Meaning, & Free Will
Dr. Federico Faggin is a physicist, engineer, and the inventor of the microprocessor - the technology which paved the way for the digital age; making modern computing, the internet, and smartphones possible. In recent decades, Federico has turned his attention to developing a scientific theory of consciousness based on the latest developments in quantum physics.
In this conversation, we explore:
Working at Relational Depth in Psychotherapy - Prof. Mick Cooper
Mick is a Professor of Counselling Psychology at the University of Roehampton, a Chartered Psychologist, and an internationally recognised author, trainer, and consultant in the fields of humanistic, existential, and pluralistic therapies.
This is Mick’s sixth appearance at The Weekend University, and I can think of very few people on the planet that have both the breadth and depth of knowledge
IFS: Healing Parts and Accessing Self in Recovery — Dr Richard Schwartz & Cece Sykes
Richard Schwartz and Cece Sykes, who—along with Martha Sweezy— have recently co-authored a book on Internal Family Systems for Addictions.
Richard is the Founder of the Internal Family Systems (IFS) Model, a pioneering approach to psychotherapy which can be used to treat a wide range of problems, including eating disorders, self harm, addiction, and trauma. Cece is a Licensed Clinical Social Wor
Attachment & Healing Shadow Parts — Dr. Bonnie Badenoch, PhD
In this interview, I’m joined by Dr Bonnie Badenoch.
Bonnie is an author, therapist, mentor, and the co-founder of the nonprofit agency: Nurturing the Heart with the Brain in Mind.
In a lively and wide ranging conversation, we explore:
— How we’re organised to be protected until the possibility of healing arrives
— Inner community - what it is, how it forms, and why it’s vital to understand
Children, Consciousness & Near-Death Experiences — Dr. Donna Thomas
Dr. Donna Thomas is a social scientist and researcher specializing in children's consciousness studies. With over 28 years of experience researching with children, she has pioneered investigations into children's transcendental experiences and altered states of consciousness, challenging conventional materialist paradigms.
In this conversation, we explore:
— How a near-death experience at age 15
Healing Attachment Wounds: A Sensorimotor Approach - Dr Pat Ogden
Dr Pat Ogden is a pioneer in somatic psychology, the developer of Sensorimotor Psychotherapy, and one of the leading voices revolutionising our approach to trauma treatment.
This conversation explores how sensorimotor psychotherapy can help us understand and treat attachment wounds - particularly those picked up in early life.
You’ll learn:
— How the body starts to “shape” itself based on ou
A Revolutionary Approach to Ending Homelessness — Alan Graham
Alan Graham is the founder and CEO of Mobile Loaves and Fishes, an organization he started in 1998 that has transformed the approach to homelessness in Austin, Texas. What began with a catering truck providing meals to the homeless has evolved into Community First Village—a 51-acre master-planned community that has housed over 1,000 formerly homeless individuals.
In this conversation, we explore:
Harm Reduction Psychotherapy: An Introduction - Dr Andrew Tatarsky, PhD
Discover a transformative approach to recovery in this episode with Dr Andrew Tatarsky, PhD. Harm Reduction Psychotherapy (HRP) offers a groundbreaking alternative to traditional methods, prioritizing understanding and empathy over immediate abstinence. Driven by personal experiences, Dr. Tatarsky unveils the limitations of abstinence-only treatment.
Explore the depths of addiction with a focus
Transforming Consciousness with Taoism, IFS, Tai Chi & Panpsychism — George Thompson
George Thompson is a filmmaker, Tai Chi practitioner, and creator dedicated to inspiring balance for both people and planet. After experiencing anxiety and burnout, George embarked on a transformative journey that took him from the Wudang Mountains in China to the wilderness of Scotland.
In this conversation, we explore:
— Why discovering Tai Chi was a pivotal moment in his trajectory
— How com
Sleepwalking, Insomnia, Circadian Rhythms: The Incredible Science of Sleep — Dr. Guy Leschziner
In this episode, I speak with Professor Guy Leschziner, a consultant neurologist and leading sleep specialist who has spent over a decade as the clinical lead at one of Europe's largest sleep disorder centers.
Drawing on insights from neuroscience, clinical practice, and evolutionary biology, Guy explores the fascinating world of sleep—from its biological functions to its profound impact on our p
Rebuilding Connectability After Attachment Wounds & Trauma — Anna Runkle
Get Anna Runkle's new book, CONNECTABILITY. You can order via the following link: https://bit.ly/4dTK9xz — more links below 👇
Anna Runkle is a bestselling author and creator of the popular YouTube channel "Crappy Childhood Fairy." After overcoming her own complex PTSD through innovative self-regulation techniques, she has dedicated her life to helping others heal from developmental trauma and re
Bernardo Kastrup: Aligning with Nature’s Will, Eastern vs Western Spirituality, & Understanding Evil
Dr. Bernardo Kastrup is a philosopher, scientist, and author whose work challenges mainstream materialism. With a background in computer engineering and a Ph.D. in philosophy, he has become one of the world's leading advocates for metaphysical idealism—the view that consciousness, not matter, is the fundamental reality of the universe.
In this conversation, we explore some of the key ideas from B
The 4 Jungian Archetypes Driving Male Psychology — Douglas Gillette
Douglas Gillette is a bestselling author, Jungian psychologist, and co-creator of the influential King, Warrior, Magician, Lover framework that has transformed our understanding of masculine psychology.
His work explores the archetypal patterns that shape human development and the journey toward psychological wholeness.
In this conversation, we explore:
— Why Douglas believes we are "sowing" i
Is it Rational to be Religious? — Ross Douthat
Ross Douthat is a New York Times columnist, author, and podcast host.
His latest book, "Believe," presents a rational case for faith in an increasingly secular world, drawing on evidence from science, philosophy, and human experience to make a compelling argument for the existence of God.
In this conversation, we explore:
— Why the strongest case for God rests at the intersection of multiple c
Attachment-Focused EMDR — Dr. Laurel Parnell
Dr. Laurel Parnell is an internationally recognised clinical psychologist, author, consultant, and the developer of the innovative treatment approach: Attachment Focused EMDR
She has trained thousands of clinicians nationally and internationally, and is the author of several bestselling books, including, “Tapping In”, “Rewiring the Addicted Brain”, and “Attachment Focused EMDR” which this intervi
The Neurobiology of Thriving Relationships — Dr Stan Tatkin
Dr Tatkin is a clinician, researcher, teacher, and developer of the psychobiological approach to couples therapy, often referred to as PACT.
He is assistant clinical professor in the family medicine department at the University of California. Dr Tatkin has authored numerous bestselling books on attachment and couples therapy, including: Wired for Love, Wired for Dating, In Each Other’s Care, and
The Healing Power of Ancestral Reconnection — Jerry Colonna
Jerry Colonna is an executive coach, author, and former venture capitalist who has been called "the CEO Whisperer." As the founder of Reboot.io, he works with leaders to foster both professional success and personal wholeness through the practice of radical self-inquiry.
In this conversation, we explore Jerry's latest book "Reunion: Leadership and the Longing to Belong," which examines how reconn
Breaking the Cycle of Intergenerational Wounds — Dr. Alicia Lieberman
Dr Alicia Lieberman is a clinical psychologist, author, and the senior developer of Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP). Her books include: The Emotional Life of the Toddler, Don’t Hit My Mommy, and Psychotherapy with Infants and Young Children.
She has received numerous awards including: the Rene Spitz Award from the World Association for Infant Mental Health, the Hero Award from the San Francisco
Speed Addiction: Our Invisible Mental Health Threat — Dr Stephanie Brown
Dr Brown is a licensed psychologist with more than 40 years of clinical experience, a researcher, and lecturer in the field of addiction.
She is an internationally recognised expert on treatment of alcoholics, adult children of alcoholics and all addicts and their families.
Dr Brown is the author of eleven academic and popular books on addiction and recovery, including her 2014 book: Speed, whic
Healing Attachment Wounds with Psychological Flexibility — Dr. Steven Hayes
Professor Steven C Hayes is the co-developer of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Relational Frame Theory, and most recently Process Based Therapy.
Dr Hayes is the author of several bestselling books, including Get out of Your Mind and Into Your Life, Process-Based CBT, and A Liberated Mind.
Along with his colleagues, Steve has spent decades developing and rigorously testing the psychological
Integrating Grief: A Holistic Approach — Dr. Joanne Cacciatore
Dr. Jo is a bereaved mother and the founder of the MISS Foundation, an international NGO that serves families whose children have died, and the Selah Carefarm, a sustainable restorative community that provides aid to anyone suffering traumatic grief.
She is also a Professor and Senior Scholar at Arizona State University, where she spearheads the Graduate Certificate in Trauma and Bereavement. He
Idealism, Altered States, & The Case for a Purposeful Universe — Dr James Glattfelder
In this interview, I’m joined by Dr James Glattfelder.
James is a physicist, complexity scientist, and peer-reviewed philosopher.
His latest book: The Sapient Cosmos synthesises the latest developments in consciousness studies, physics, and information theory to tackle some of life’s biggest questions.
Expect to learn:
— Why consciousness might be the foundation of reality, not just a produc
Clinical Hypnosis: The Future of Addiction Treatment? — Dr David Spiegel
Dr. David Spiegel is an author, psychiatrist and professor at Stanford University, and one of the world’s leading experts into the clinical applications of hypnosis. He has published thirteen books, over 400 scientific articles, and 170 chapters on hypnosis, stress physiology, trauma, and psychotherapy. He is also the creator of REVERI, an innovative guided self hypnosis app which has been clinica
Nonduality and Psychotherapy - Dr Peter Fenner, PhD
Dr. Peter Fenner’s nondual approach has been transforming psychotherapy and spiritual practice for decades. In this session, he explore why his teachings on nondual awareness have been so effective in areas such as personal growth, mental health, and spiritual realization—and how this radical understanding of consciousness has the potential to profoundly change how we experience life.
You’ll lear
Internal Family Systems: Healing Trauma & Restoring Wholeness - Dr Richard Schwartz, PhD
Is there just one “you”? We’ve been taught to believe we have a single identity and to feel fear or shame when we can’t control the inner voices that don’t match the ideal of who we think we should be. Yet Dr. Richard Schwartz’s research now challenges this “mono-mind” theory. “All of us are born with many sub-minds―or parts,” says Dr. Schwartz. “These parts are not imaginary or symbolic. They are
Consciousness, The Genesis Story, Jung, & Ending Inner Conflict — Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor
Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor is a Harvard-trained neuroscientist, stroke survivor, and bestselling author of My Stroke of Insight and Whole Brain Living. With over 27 million views, her TED Talk is one of the most viewed of all time.
In this conversation, we explore:
— How a left hemisphere stroke radically shifted Jill’s view of identity
— What it means to live from a “whole brain” perspective and D
MIT Neuroscientist: Expanding Consciousness is the Purpose of Life — Dr. Tony Nader
Dr. Tony Nader is a medical doctor, neuroscientist, and the global leader of the Transcendental Meditation movement. He holds an MD from the American University of Beirut and a PhD in neuroscience from MIT.
In this conversation, we explore Dr. Nader’s provocative claim that consciousness is not a byproduct of the brain—but the ground of all being. Drawing on neuroscience, quantum physics, and th
Surviving and Thriving in the AI Renaissance — Zack Kass
Zack Kass is an AI strategist, futurist, and former Head of Go-to-Market at OpenAI — the company behind ChatGPT. As a leading voice in the responsible integration of artificial intelligence, Zack has advised Fortune 500 companies, governments, and nonprofits on how to navigate technological change with both foresight and humanity.
In this wide-ranging discussion, Zack shares what most people get
Nonduality & The Science of Consciousness - Peter Russell
The spiritual teaching of nonduality, which stems from the Indian philosophy of advaita, teaches that consciousness is the primary reality, the fundamental essence of the cosmos. On the other hand, the current scientific worldview holds that the physical world is primary, and that consciousness somehow, in ways that we do not yet understand, emerges from it. Both views have their challenges. If co
The Hidden Life of an Abuse Survivor — Tomás Hardiman
Tomás Hardiman is a film producer and a survivor of childhood abuse. His recent documentary “The Days of Trees” tells the story of his own experience of childhood sexual abuse, and his long road to recovery.
In this conversation, Tomás reflects on the years he spent in the dark, his gradual process of healing, and how he was able to convert his deepest childhood wound into a creative project - a
Morality or Biology? Rethinking the Dark Side of Human Nature — Dr Guy Leschziner
In this episode, I speak with Professor Guy Leschziner, a consultant neurologist and author of three bestselling books, including: “The Man Who Tasted Words”, “The Secret World of Sleep”, and “The Seven Deadly Sins”, which this interview focuses on.
Drawing on insights from evolutionary biology, genetics, and clinical neurology, Guy makes a compelling case that what we label as “sin” may often h
Are You More Than Just Your Brain? — Dr Sharon Dirckx
Dr. Sharon Dirckx is a speaker and author trained in neuroscience, who speaks internationally on topics such as science and theology, human consciousness, and the problem of evil. She has appeared on BBC Radio 2, Radio 4 and has also written for The Times. Her books include: Broken Planet, Why, and Am I Just my Brain - which this interview focuses on.
Here are some of the questions we explore in
Dr Lisa Feldman Barrett - How the Brain Creates Emotions
Dr Lisa Feldman Barrett, who is in the top one percent of most cited scientists in the world for her revolutionary research in psychology and neuroscience. She is a Distinguished Professor of Psychology at Northeastern University, and also holds appointments at Harvard Medical School and Massachusetts General Hospital, where she is Chief Science Officer for the Center for Law, Brain & Behavior.
Neuroscience: Addiction as Learning - The Missing Link? — Prof. Marc Lewis
Professor Marc Lewis is a former Professor of Developmental Psychology at the University of Toronto and a world leading expert in the neuroscience of addiction. It was particularly interesting to speak with Marc because not only does he have a deep understanding of the neural mechanisms underneath addictive processes, he also has battled with quite severe opioid addictions himself. He is the autho
Attachment and Compassion in Psychotherapy — Paul Gilbert and Jeremy Holmes
In this episode, I’m joined by Professor Paul Gilbert and Professor Jeremy Holmes. Paul is the developer of Compassion Focused Therapy and one of the world’s leading clinical psychologists studying the scientific application of compassion in therapeutic practice. Jeremy is an award winning attachment expert, clinician, and author, whose books include: In Search of the Secure Base, Attachment & Psy
Is Addiction an Attachment Disorder? — Dr Oliver Morgan
Dr Morgan is a Professor of Counseling & Human Services at the University of Scranton, who has spent thirty years researching, teaching, and writing about mental health and addiction. He is the author of Addiction, Attachment, Trauma and Recovery, which provides a holistic, multidisciplinary framework for understanding and treating addictive processes.
In this conversation, we explore:
— The e
Precognition, NDEs, and The Psychology of Expanding Time — Dr Steve Taylor
In this interview, I speak with Dr Steve Taylor, a psychologist, writer, and lecturer at Leeds Beckett University. Dr Taylor is the author of several bestselling books on psychology and spirituality, including: The Leap, Spiritual Science, and most recently Time Expansion Experiences, which this conversation focuses on.
Expect to learn:
— Why linear time is an illusion of the mind
— What near-
Jung & The Purposeful Intelligence of Nature — Dr. James Hollis
Dr. James Hollis is one of the world’s leading Jungian analysts. Across a career spanning decades, he has written extensively on how we confront the unconscious, navigate midlife, and live with greater courage and self-awareness. His books include: Living an Examined Life, Under Saturn's Shadow, and a Life of Meaning.
In this conversation, we explore:
— The extent to which Dr. Hollis believes
Dr. Bessel van der Kolk — Attachment and Trauma
Dr Bessel van der Kolk is a clinician, researcher, and teacher who has spent his professional life studying how children and adults adapt to traumatic experiences.
He specialises in translating emerging findings from neuroscience and attachment research to develop and study a range of effective treatments for traumatic stress and developmental trauma in children and adults.
He is the author of t
Derek Sivers—Unconventional Strategies for Finding Meaning, Making Millions & Reprogramming Beliefs
In this interview, I’m joined by Derek Sivers.
Derek is the Founder of CD Baby — a company he sold for $22 million, and then gave pretty much everything to charity. He has written multiple bestselling books, given TED talks which have reached millions, and been a circus performer for 10 years.
There have been few people who have had a bigger positive impact on my thinking than Derek, so it was
A New Vision of Attachment — Linda Thai
In this episode, I’m joined by Linda Thai — a mental health clinician, storyteller, and educator who has had her own lived experiences of individual, collective, historical and cultural traumatization...and healing.
I’ve interviewed many fascinating individuals in the past seven years of running The Weekend University, but there was something different about Linda. It might have something to do
Mini Interview: IFS Camino with Dr. Richard Schwartz - What to Expect
Join Dr. Richard Schwartz for a life-changing nature immersion combining scenic walks on the breathtaking Camino de Santiago, with deep experiential Internal Family Systems (IFS) workshops along the way:
https://theweekenduniversity.com/ifs-camino
This experience is tailored for leaders interested in using IFS to create deep inner alignment, so that they can positively impact more lives through
Attachment and the Core Dilemma with NARM — Dr. Laurence Heller
Dr Laurence Heller is the founder of the NeuroAffective Relational Model™ - often referred to as NARM. This is a psychobiological approach known to be highly effective for working with developmental trauma.
He is the author of “Healing Developmental Trauma”, which is currently published in more than 10 languages. For the past 20 years, Dr Heller has been conducting seminars in the NARM approach t
Iain McGilchrist, Bernardo Kastrup: Consciousness, God, Truth, & The Purpose of Life
In this interview, I’m joined by two leading thinkers who are helping to reshape our understanding of consciousness, the nature of reality, and the pursuit of meaning in life: Dr Iain McGilchrist and Dr Bernardo Kastrup.
Iain is a neuroscientist, psychiatrist, author, and philosopher perhaps most well known for his Hemispheric Hypothesis and his books: The Master and his Emissary and The Matter
Consciousness & Nonduality: Saying Yes to Life — Francis Lucille
This week, we welcome Francis Lucille to the show, a renowned teacher of the nondual understanding, who has dedicated his life to helping individuals uncover the ultimate truth of consciousness and reality.
Drawing from decades of exploration and teaching, Francis shares insights on some of the following topics:
— The ultimate purpose of human life
— Why happiness is our natural state
— How
Shadow Work, Christ Consciousness, & Setting God Free — Seán ÓLaoire
In this interview, I’m joined by Seán ÓLaoire - a clinical psychologist, author, modern day mystic, and former priest with a P.h.D in transpersonal psychology.
His book: “Setting God Free” explores the harmful effects our image of God as a judgemental father figure in the sky has had on our psychology - both individually and collectively.
In this conversation, we explore:
— Seán’s unique app
Create a Community that Changes Your Life — Alexis Dean
This week, we welcome Alexis Dean to the show. Alexis is the founder of Dovetail Community—a global network for female entrepreneurs dedicated to fostering authentic connections and mutual support.
This episode explores her journey of building an intentional community and the transformative impact this can have on personal and professional life.
Expect to learn:
— Why building an authentic com
Dr. Martha Beck — Unlocking the Hidden Power of Your Right Hemisphere
Dr. Martha Beck is a Harvard-trained sociologist, bestselling author, and renowned life coach known for her transformative work on living in alignment with your true self.
With decades of experience blending science, spirituality, and practical tools, Martha’s insights have helped countless individuals overcome anxiety, unlock creativity, and live with greater integrity.
Expect to learn:
— Why
René Girard, Mimetic Theory, & Making the Process the Reward - Johnathan Bi
Johnathan Bi introduces the key insights of René Girard’s Mimetic Theory and its surprising practical applications.
Expect to learn:
— How understanding the hidden forces behind our desires can help us break free from societal pressures, improve our decision-making, and create a life we truly love.
— The scapegoat mechanism and how this kept peace in ancient societies for thousands of years
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The Church of What's Happening Now: The New Testament
This Past Weekend w/ Theo Von
