Curiosity sits at the intersection of creativity, effective human interactions, problem-solving and purposeful change. Unfortunately, the pace of life — at home, work, and school — often sidetracks our natural curiosity. So, listen as we look at the familiar from a different angle or something new as a possibility to consider.
In this episode, Deborah Sosin shares her journey to become a writer, from diary-keeping to published books. She discusses creativity, writing challenges, mindfulness, and how personal storytelling fosters self-reflection and connection with readers.
Read MoreCo-hosts Jeff Ikler and Sarah Elkins discuss how personal objects and storytelling foster human connection. They explore the role of narrative in reducing societal division and preview Sarah’s upcoming TEDx talk on meaningful conversations.
Read MoreDr. Julie Vitalie, Superintendent of Oceanside, CA, Public Schools, discusses the challenges facing public education in the United States, including the attack on DEI, the push for privatization, and teacher morale. She also highlights the importance of social-emotional learning (SEL) for students and the need for teachers to be trained in this area.
Read MoreAward-winning documentarian Peter Byck discusses the power of regenerative cattle grazing to restore soil health, fight climate change, and reshape farming. He emphasizes science-backed solutions for sustainability and the role of cattle in land regeneration.
Read MoreIn this episode, Paul Banks explores curiosity, ethical sales, and trust-building in business. He shares insights on behavioral science, content marketing, and why long-term relationships outperform short-term transactional sales strategies.
Read MoreHistory professor Allan Winkler discusses history education, the evolution of textbooks, and the importance of critical thinking. He also explores the WWII home front, highlighting propaganda, labor movements, and the role of marginalized groups in shaping history.
Read MoreIn this two-part episode, environmental journalist Ben Goldfarb discusses the critical need for wildlife crossings that provide safe passage for wildlife under and over roads and highways. He emphasizes how road ecologists, other scientists, and government officials can develop collaborative solutions to balance infrastructure development and the preservation of animal habitats.
Read MoreIn this two-part episode, environmental journalist Ben Goldfarb discusses the critical need for wildlife crossings that provide safe passage for wildlife under and over roads and highways. He emphasizes how road ecologists, other scientists, and government officials can develop collaborative solutions to balance infrastructure development and the preservation of animal habitats.
Read MoreIn this episode, Jeff interviews Bob Reece, a counselor, coach, and fly-fishing guide, about his work addressing men's mental health through his private practice and nature-based retreats.
Read MoreIn this episode, Tamsin Astor, Ph.D., a habit scientist, discusses her approach to habit formation and wellness by integrating both Western and Eastern philosophies. She highlights the importance of understanding the "Big Why" behind habits and emphasizes the need to create new, positive routines instead of just addressing the root causes of negative habits.
Read MoreThis episode reflects on the Apollo 8 mission's iconic "Earthrise" image in late December 1968 and the turbulent year that preceded it. It highlights enduring lessons on inequality, collective problem-solving, and environmental stewardship. The episode urges renewed respect for history and a commitment to addressing modern challenges with the same ingenuity that defined the space race.
Read MoreIn this episode, I reflect on how books have impacted my life and why standing up to book censorship is essential. Given my interest in books, I was curious to know what some of my colleagues, friends, and family members read in 2024 and what they will read in 2025. So, I contacted more than 40 of them, asking them for a brief bio, their books of choice, and why a given title found its way to their bookshelf and nightstand.
Read MoreAs we approach the end of the year, I want to thank you, my listeners. Your interest and support allow me to continue this show. This episode recaps 2024 in three parts:
Part One: the episodes that you listened to the most.
Part Two: all the episodes were important, but one was particularly special to me.
Part Three: my most popular episode over the life of the podcast.
Acknowledging its 80th anniversary, historian Paul McNicholls and I examine the history and emotional resonance of the Battle of the Bulge, which began on December 16, 1944. We share tactical insights, battlefield stories, and reflections on the enduring lessons of war and humanity.
Read MoreIn this episode, master coach Luann Horobin explains how understanding brain chemistry and mindset shifts can help individuals overcome inner resistance and unlock their potential.
Read MoreIn this episode, Jeff and Jillayne Flanders, the Executive Director of the Center for Education Improvement, and mindfulness teacher Laura Bakosh, Ph.D., discuss the benefits of daily mindfulness practices in schools: improved focus, emotional resilience, and academic performance. She also suggests strategies to address the challenges for implementation and systemic change.
Read MoreIn this episode, Dr. Elizabeth Keating explores the art of asking questions to preserve family history, highlighting the value of curiosity, cultural understanding, and storytelling to foster deeper connections across generations.
Read MoreIn this episode, Dr. Sarah Bennison discusses how The Mattering Movement helps students provide value and feel valued beyond their academic and non-curricular achievements.
Read MoreGuest Frank Zaccari explains his method for helping authors promote their work through a structured 90-day campaign. His approach combines targeted content, multi-channel outreach, and persistence to help books succeed in a crowded market. (And his method works for service providers, too!)
Read MoreFormer high school history teacher Jeff Ikler examines America's democratic challenges through two historical lenses: our struggles at home and abroad during WWII and the 1960 election's reminder that peaceful transition of power is a cornerstone of democracy.
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