219: The Grieving Body, and the Science of Love and Loss with Dr. Mary-Frances O'Connor

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Mary-Frances O’Connor, a clinical psychologist and neuroscientist, to explore the intricate relationship between grief, the brain, and the body. Drawing from her decades of research, Mary-Frances shares insights on how our bodies physically experience grief, why loss reshapes our inner world, and how cultural and personal differences shape the grieving process.Together, we discuss grief as a rite of passage, the impact of loss on identity, the role of guilt in bereavement—especially in cases of suicide—and the ways in which grief can manifest in unexpected physiological responses. We also examine the shifting cultural landscape of death and mourning, the importance of human connection in navigating loss, and how existential questions arise through grief.With both personal reflections and deep scientific insight, this conversation sheds light on the universal yet deeply individual nature of grief, offering a thoughtful exploration of what it means to carry loss within us.I sincerely hope you enjoy!

On this episode of The Mind Mate Podcast, I chat with the legendary Dr. Kirk Honda about all things therapy, culture, and philosophy. We dive into different therapeutic approaches—what works, what doesn’t, and why it all depends—while unpacking how cultural trends are shaping the way we think about mental health. We also get into some big philosophical questions about what it really means to heal. If you’re into deep, engaging conversations with a mix of insight and curiosity, you’re gonna love this one!

In this episode, I sit down with the brilliant Dr. Michael Conforti, Jungian analyst and founder of the Assisi Institute, to explore the intricate interplay between archetypes, dreams, and the unconscious. Together, we delve into how patterns of meaning shape our lives, the role of the collective unconscious in human behaviour, and the transformative power of symbols in guiding us through personal and existential challenges. Dr. Conforti’s decades of experience in Jungian depth psychology shine through as he shares profound insights into the mysteries of the psyche and how understanding these universal patterns can foster healing and self-discovery.

Welcome back to The Mind Mate Podcast! Today, I have the absolute honour of sitting down with Dr. Kirk Schneider—one of the leading voices in contemporary existential-humanistic psychology and a true pioneer in the field of depth-oriented healing. Dr. Schneider has an impressive career that spans decades. He’s a licensed psychologist, the past editor of the Journal of Humanistic Psychology, and president of the Existential-Humanistic Institute. He teaches at Saybrook University and Columbia University’s Teachers College and is a Fellow of five divisions of the American Psychological Association. Beyond that, he’s a prolific author, having written or coauthored 12 books, including The Paradoxical Self, Horror and the Holy, Existential-Integrative Psychotherapy, and Awakening to Awe. Today, we’ll touch on his latest contribution, Life-Enhancing Anxiety: Key to a Sane World, which offers a global perspective on existential approaches to healing and transformation. What’s striking about Dr. Schneider’s work is how deeply it calls us to engage with life’s mysteries—the awe, the terror, and the paradoxes that shape the human experience. He’s also the founder of the Corps of Depth Healers, a movement designed to bring depth-oriented, existential practices to communities in need. It’s a radical and necessary initiative in our increasingly fragmented world, and I’m excited to explore it with him today. If you’re as fascinated as I am, I highly recommend diving into Dr. Schneider’s world. Visit his website at www.kirkjschneider.com for more about his work and writings. You can also learn about the Corps of Depth Healers at    / @corpsofdepthhealers-ws9nq   where you’ll find resources for cultivating healing and awe in your own communities. So, without further ado, let’s dive into an unforgettable conversation with Dr. Kirk Schneider. I hope you enjoy this one as much as I did!

In this episode of The Mind Mate Podcast, I had the absolute privilege of speaking with Emmy Van Deurzen, an iconic figure in existential psychotherapy and philosophy. We delved into the rich terrain of dream analysis and discussed how our unconscious lives can reveal pathways to authenticity. We also explored Emmy's personal journey: her love of Socrates sparked during her youth, the profound impact of growing up in a post-World War II world, and how these experiences shaped her relentless pursuit of life's deepest questions. About Emmy: Emmy van Deurzen is a leading existential psychotherapist, philosopher, and prolific author. Born in The Hague, Netherlands, in 1951, she studied French and philosophy in Montpellier, France, before earning a master’s degree in phenomenology and existentialism under Michel Henry. Emmy's career began in France, where she worked in innovative psychiatric settings, such as Saint Alban and La Candelie, while training in psychotherapy and clinical psychology. In 1977, Emmy moved to the UK, where she contributed to the Arbours Association and Antioch University before founding the New School of Psychotherapy and Counselling in London. As an advocate for existential therapy, Emmy has authored influential books, including Existential Counselling and Psychotherapy in Practice. Her works have been translated into multiple languages, and she remains a global authority on existential psychology, helping people navigate crises, dilemmas, and transformations. Her upcoming book, The Art of Freedom, is set to release in 2024. *** Welcome to The Mind Mate Podcast, your compass for navigating life’s biggest questions. Hosted by Tom, a psychotherapist and writer, this podcast dives deep into the heart of existentialism, philosophy, and mental health. Join us as we explore how meaning is shaped across different cultures and belief systems—from East to West, religious to secular. We bridge the worlds of science, art, and therapy, blending philosophical insights with practical tools for living a fulfilled life. Expect thought-provoking conversations with philosophers, therapists, artists, spiritual seekers, teachers and academics who are pushing the boundaries of what it means to be human. Whether you're seeking personal growth, deeper self-awareness, or just curious about the human condition, this podcast will help you navigate your path. Find out more here: https://ahern.blog/

In this special episode, I sit down with Dr. Julien Tempone-Wiltshire to explore the profound philosophical implications of psychedelic experiences. We dive deep into how these altered states of consciousness can reshape our understanding of reality, identity, and existential meaning. Dr. Tempone-Wiltshire brings his expertise in the intersection of philosophy and psychology to discuss the transformative power of psychedelics in self-discovery, spiritual exploration, and mental health. Whether you're curious about the potential of psychedelics for personal growth or fascinated by their impact on human consciousness, this episode offers an enlightening perspective on the subject. ***Welcome to The Mind Mate Podcast, your compass for navigating life’s biggest questions. Hosted by Tom, a psychotherapist and writer, this podcast dives deep into the heart of existentialism, philosophy, and mental health. Join us as we explore how meaning is shaped across different cultures and belief systems—from East to West, religious to secular. We bridge the worlds of science, art, and therapy, blending philosophical insights with practical tools for living a fulfilled life. Expect thought-provoking conversations with philosophers, therapists, artists, spiritual seekers, teachers and academics who are pushing the boundaries of what it means to be human. Whether you're seeking personal growth, deeper self-awareness, or just curious about the human condition, this podcast will help you navigate your path. Find out more here: https://ahern.blog/

Welcome back to The Mind Mate Podcast! In this special episode, I’m joined by the renowned Jungian analyst and author, Dr. James Hollis. Dr. Hollis has written extensively about the human condition, meaning-making, and navigating the complexities of modern life through a depth psychology lens. Together, we dive deep into the existential themes of midlife, the confrontation with our unconscious, and the role that personal responsibility plays in our journey towards individuation. Dr. Hollis shares his insights on the nature of self-deception, how we can better understand the patterns that shape our lives, and the importance of embracing uncertainty. We explore the tension between security and growth, the way culture influences our psyche, and the inner work required to move beyond the limiting narratives we've inherited. Whether you're familiar with his work or new to the ideas of Jungian psychology, this conversation offers profound reflections for anyone seeking a more authentic life. Tune in for a rich, thought-provoking discussion that challenges the ways we understand ourselves and the world around us. About Dr. James Hollis: James Hollis, Ph.D. taught Humanities 26 years in various colleges and universities before retraining as a Jungian analyst at the Jung Institute of Zurich, Switzerland (1977-82). He is presently a licensed Jungian analyst in private practice in Washington, D.C. He co-founded the Jung Institute of Philadelphia, served as Executive Director of the Jung Educational Center in Houston, Texas for many years and Director of the Washington Jung Society. He lives with his wife Jill, an artist and retired therapist, in a suburb of Washington, DC. Together they have three living children and eight grand-children. He has written a total of twenty books, which have been translated into Swedish, Russian, German, Spanish, French, Hungarian, Portuguese, Turkish, Italian, Korean, Finnish, Romanian, Bulgarian, Farsi, Japanese, Greek, Chinese, Serbian, Latvian, Ukranian and Czech. Check him out here: Dr. James Hollis Website: https://jameshollis.net Books: https://jameshollis.net/hollisBooks.html Jung Platform: https://bit.ly/3yjVhTJ Videos: https://jameshollis.net/hollisVideos.... Upcoming lectures: https://jameshollis.net/hollisLecture...

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.

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.

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/