Episode 7: Tests, Allies and Enemies: The supportive nature of values

Mindful Conversations with Shamash & Calvin

#Shamash Alidina #Heros Journey #Religion #Shamash Alidina & Calvin Niles #Amp; Calvin Niles

32:48

America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders is back for its second season! Kay Adams welcomes the women who assemble the squad, Kelli Finglass and Judy Trammell, to the Netflix Sports Club Podcast. They discuss the emotional rollercoaster of putting together the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. Judy and Kelli open up about what it means to embrace flaws in the pursuit of perfection, how they identify that winning combo of stamina and wow factor, and what it’s like to see Thunderstruck go viral. Plus, the duo shares their hopes for the future of DCC beyond the field. Netflix Sports Club Podcast Correspondent Dani Klupenger also stops by to discuss the NBA Finals, basketball’s biggest moments with Michael Jordan and LeBron, and Kevin Durant’s international dominance. Dani and Kay detail the rise of Coco Gauff’s greatness and the most exciting storylines heading into Wimbledon. We want to hear from you! Leave us a voice message at www.speakpipe.com/NetflixSportsClub Find more from the Netflix Sports Club Podcast @NetflixSports on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and X. You can catch Kay Adams @heykayadams and Dani Klupenger @daniklup on IG and X. Be sure to follow Kelli Finglass and Judy Trammel @kellifinglass and @dcc_judy on IG. Hosted by Kay Adams, the Netflix Sports Club Podcast is an all-access deep dive into the Netflix Sports universe! Each episode, Adams will speak with athletes, coaches, and a rotating cycle of familiar sports correspondents to talk about a recently released Netflix Sports series. The podcast will feature hot takes, deep analysis, games, and intimate conversations. Be sure to watch, listen, and subscribe to the Netflix Sports Club Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Tudum, or wherever you get your podcasts. New episodes on Fridays every other week.…

4 years ago 26:46

MP3•Episode home

This week, our heroes Shamash and Calvin are out of their comfort zone, and have moved into a new special world where difficult challenges ensue. When examining acceptance and commitment therapy through the lens of the Hero's Journey, we see how tests and enemies align, but who are our allies? Our values.

In this episode:

Therapist Mari Williams describes how we live out our values, and how they filter and inform even the smallest decisions we make.
Social entrepreneur Kush Kanodia combines purpose and values by looking at them in terms of core and flex: those things we hold sacred vs those we can compromise on.
Dr Steven Hayes, originator of ACT, recounts a spiritual experience that informed his work, and discusses the ways we judge our own feelings and how that judgement can lead to anxiety.
Dr Mehwish Sharif sets out some the questions she asks clients to help them explore the emotions behind the choices they make.

Next week, we approach the inner-most cave, and understand what can be gained from engaging in a long dark night of the soul.

Mindful Conversations is hosted by mindfulness teacher Shamash Alidina and mindful storyteller Calvin Niles.

32 episodes

Mindful Conversations with Shamash & Calvin

Episode 7: Tests, Allies and Enemies: The supportive nature of values

Mindful Conversations with Shamash & Calvin

published 4 years ago

MP3•Episode home

In this episode:

Therapist Mari Williams describes how we live out our values, and how they filter and inform even the smallest decisions we make.
Social entrepreneur Kush Kanodia combines purpose and values by looking at them in terms of core and flex: those things we hold sacred vs those we can compromise on.
Dr Steven Hayes, originator of ACT, recounts a spiritual experience that informed his work, and discusses the ways we judge our own feelings and how that judgement can lead to anxiety.
Dr Mehwish Sharif sets out some the questions she asks clients to help them explore the emotions behind the choices they make.

Next week, we approach the inner-most cave, and understand what can be gained from engaging in a long dark night of the soul.

Mindful Conversations is hosted by mindfulness teacher Shamash Alidina and mindful storyteller Calvin Niles.

32 episodes

#Shamash Alidina #Heros Journey #Religion #Shamash Alidina & Calvin Niles #Amp; Calvin Niles

All episodes

Mindful Conversations with Shamash & Calvin

1
S3 E7: Trusting the Heart’s Wisdom – A Former Plum Village Monk’s Rebirth into Everyday Life 55:23

7 weeks ago55:23

55:23

In the final episode of Mindful Conversations Season 3, hosts Shamash and Calvin are once again joined by special guest co-host Moensch Micha — formerly known as Brother Freedom, a Plum Village monk for 14 years. Together, they reflect on a season rich with spontaneous, soulful dialogues exploring themes of mastery, mindfulness, and emergence. Micha shares his powerful transition from monastic life to modern-day mystic, guided by dreams, an inner call, and the passing of his beloved teacher, Thich Nhat Hanh. He opens up about letting go—not just of robes, but of rigid spiritual ideals—in order to meet people more openly, whether in silence or on the dance floor! This conversation touches on: Listening to the quiet wisdom of the heart The shift from “enlightenment” to “enlivenment” Breaking free of ancestral patterns The dance between masculine and feminine energy And the courage it takes to live an authentic life outside of the expected path Calvin and Shamash also reflect on their own recent transformations—each sparked by bold choices, unexpected changes, and deeper trust in life’s unfolding. The episode closes with an open invitation to help co-create the spirit and direction of Season 4. Learn more: https://CalvinNiles.com https://www.MoenschMicha.com https://ShamashAlidina.com Please do email us if you enjoyed this series or have any comments and questions. We'd LOVE to hear from you! Want to help us spread this podcast. Then please leave a comment and review, to help us spread our message, and to encourage us to keep sharing. THANK YOU! :)…

Mindful Conversations with Shamash & Calvin

1
S3 E6: The Courage to Be and Act with Dima Golyk 49:57

12 weeks ago49:57

49:57

In this episode of Mindful Conversations , Calvin and Micha welcome musician and tech professional Dima Golyk , who shares how he rediscovered his passion for music after an early discouragement. Inspired by a life-changing retreat, Dima committed to writing and performing heartfelt songs, blending spiritual insights from meditation and mindfulness practices. He also reflects on balancing a tech career with his artistic calling, noting that modern society increasingly values authentic expression over mere stability. Dima’s music took on deeper meaning when the war in Ukraine escalated, prompting him to release songs that rallied support and hope. Throughout, he emphasizes that it’s never too late to follow one’s inner voice, reminding listeners to have “the courage to be and act.”…

Mindful Conversations with Shamash & Calvin

1
S3 E5: Embracing the New Era of Transformation with Simone Overath 54:15

14 weeks ago54:15

54:15

In this enlightening conversation, we’re joined by Simone Overath, a spiritual guide and intuitive writer whose bestselling card decks, Transformation Code, channel symbols for the new era. Simone shares her journey into higher consciousness—beginning with intuitive writing and vivid visual downloads—and how she now receives and interprets powerful symbols that help people shift their personal energy and reconnect with their core frequency. We discuss the role of dreams in revealing deeper truths, the importance of trusting gut feelings, and why learning to relax our overactive minds is key to spiritual growth. Whether through journaling, breathwork, or simply noticing meaningful signs in daily life, Simone illustrates how each of us can engage our innate intuition. Join us for a warm, inspiring exploration of transformation, synchronicity, and the subtle frequencies guiding us toward our authentic selves.…

Mindful Conversations with Shamash & Calvin

1
S3 E4: The Healing Power of Your Voice 1:02:44

16 weeks ago1:02:44

1:02:44

In this episode of Mindful Conversations , hosts Calvin, Michael welcome special guest Simone Niles, an expert in voice healing and transformation. The discussion explores the profound impact of the voice on self-expression, healing, and emotional well-being. Simone shares her personal journey of discovering the therapeutic nature of singing, emphasizing how voice work can serve as a powerful tool for transformation. She explains how sound, especially through singing and humming, creates resonance that aligns the body and mind, and discusses the significance of dissonance in clearing stuck energy. The conversation also delves into cultural traditions of sound healing, such as a Namibian practice where a person’s "life song" is sung to remind them of their true self. The hosts reflect on the deep connection between sound and collective harmony, as well as the importance of authentic vocal expression. A thought-provoking discussion emerges around AI-generated voices and whether artificial intelligence can replicate the "soul" of human vocal expression. The guests debate the evolution of AI and its potential role in creativity and communication, with a consensus that while AI can mimic sound, it lacks the emotional depth of human presence. The episode concludes with reflections on how sound shapes our reality, the innate power of the human voice, and the role of conscious evolution in integrating new technology while preserving human connection. The conversation is brought to a close with a collective humming exercise, reinforcing the transformative nature of vocal resonance and its ability to bring people into alignment.…

Mindful Conversations with Shamash & Calvin

1
S3 E3: Mindful Contagion and the Power of Zero 52:38

18 weeks ago52:38

52:38

In this lively conversation, Calvin, Shamash, and Micha explore how one calm, mindful person can profoundly influence others—like Thich Nhat Hanh’s peaceful presence or the way dolphins recognize mindful trainers. They discuss how mindfulness is contagious, how we all share vibrations that entrain one another, and why stepping into true presence can instantly dissolve questions and concerns. Touching on everything from pungent smells at the beach to political tensions, they show that being fully present means accepting reality as it is—including its discomforts—without losing balance. They reflect on “black sheep” figures (in politics, families, or communities) who often force us to see our biases and expand our perspectives. Ultimately, they underscore that we all carry every possible archetype within us. By embracing our own inner “black sheep,” we rediscover our shared humanity, stay at “zero,” and find deeper harmony with ourselves—and each other.…

Mindful Conversations with Shamash & Calvin

1
S3 E2: Going Deeper into Emergence 55:43

20 weeks ago55:43

55:43

Podcast Summary: Episode 2 - Going Deeper into Emergence In this episode, the hosts explore the concept of "emergence," discussing its meaning, philosophical roots, and manifestations in life and nature. They begin with a lighthearted introduction, welcoming guest co-host Brother Freedom, who shares his surprise at being invited for an entire season. Key themes include: Definition and Etymology : Emergence, derived from the Latin emergere , means "to bring to light" or "to rise out." It is linked to the idea of order arising from chaos, exemplified by flocks of birds and neurons in the brain. Chaos and Insight : The hosts reflect on how insights often arise unexpectedly from chaotic or unstructured interactions, akin to natural patterns forming without central control. Light and Darkness : A discussion of the interconnectedness of light and darkness, framed by philosophical and spiritual perspectives like yin-yang and Buddhist teachings. They consider light emerging from darkness and how both coexist. Creativity and Awareness : Creativity is likened to wind filling sails—conditions must be right for insights to manifest. This parallels Buddhist ideas of consciousness and awareness, where latent seeds of thought emerge when nurtured. Purpose and Meaninglessness : They address feelings of purposelessness, proposing that rather than striving for goals, one should trust the flow of life and embrace presence. Purpose, they suggest, can emerge naturally when one lets go of pressure. The episode concludes with reflections on interconnectedness, the beauty of being present, and the joy of unscripted, emergent conversations. ⁠CalvinNiles.com⁠ ShamashAlidina.com…

Mindful Conversations with Shamash & Calvin

1
S3 E1: Let's Explore Emergence in this Series 20:18

22 weeks ago20:18

20:18

In this podcast episode, Shamash and Calvin introduce a new season of Mindful Conversations , recorded during a walk around Bedfont Lakes. The series will focus on the theme of "emergence," exploring how to mindfully navigate the constant changes in the world. They reflect on how the word “emergence” is linked to “emergency,” and discuss the idea of managing personal stories and belief systems. Calvin introduces three levels of how people relate to their stories. Unconscious beliefs : Living life based on inherited or unexamined beliefs. Conscious questioning : Starting to challenge and construct new, more constructive stories. Story-less acceptance : Letting go of the need for stories altogether, achieving a state of full acceptance and freedom. They emphasize the dynamic nature of moving between these levels and discuss the value of mindfulness in accessing moments of surrender and presence. The episode concludes with plans for future discussions and introducing a guest, Brother Freedom, in their next episode. ShamashAlidina.com CalvinNiles.com…

Mindful Conversations with Shamash & Calvin

1
S2 E10 - Will We Become Homo Silicon Chipus?! Cautious Optimism about the Future - Shamash and Calvin 44:00

2 years ago44:00

44:00

In this episode, we explore the bigger picture of what we've learnt about AI, humanity, philosophy and spirituality in this season. Calvin is sharing with us from sunny Barbados, and reflects on the concept of 'creative destruction' in nature and its parallels with technology and AI. We ponder the potential evolutionary shift in humanity with the advent of AI, coining playful terms like 'Homo ChatGPTus' and 'Homo silicon chip-us,' suggesting a merging of human and artificial intelligence. There's a discussion on the integration of AI in enhancing human capabilities and the possibility that humans may evolve beyond Homo Sapiens through technology. We consider how AI and mindfulness can be aligned, discussing technology's role in promoting compassion and creativity. We reflect on the evolution of our thoughts over the season, moving from caution to a more optimistic and accepting stance on the inevitability of technological advancement. The episode concludes with both hosts sharing their takeaways from the season, emphasising the importance of enjoying the journey and remaining open and curious about the unfolding relationship between AI and humanity. Please send us a message via our website if you enjoyed the season! We'd love to hear from you. If you found our free gift of this podcast entertaining or interesting for you, please share your gratitude with a little review - thank you so much! ⁠CalvinNiles.com…

Mindful Conversations with Shamash & Calvin

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S2 E9: The Neuroscience of Manifestation and Real Secret to Happiness 52:23

2 years ago52:23

52:23

In this special episode of Mindful Conversations, we delve into the fascinating neuroscience of manifestation, the true secret to happiness, and the power of the human mind. Hosts Shamash and Calvin, along with their guests Dr. James Doty and Alex Nunn, introduce themselves and discuss their interests in topics like AI, happiness, and compassion. They emphasize the importance of compassion in creating a more caring society. Dr. Doty is an eminent neuroscientist and New York Times bestselling author. Alex Nunn is Head of Movement Building at charity Action for Happiness. Dr. Doty distinguishes between empathy and compassion, underlining that compassion involves both a desire to alleviate the suffering of others and an action component. Alex Nunn shares his personal journey and how compassion has become a central theme in his life. The conversation delves into the potential impact of AI on society, contemplating whether AI can help promote compassion or have negative consequences, including manipulative uses. They touch on the role of AI in mental health support and the importance of deep relationships and compassion in people's lives. The discussion also explores the role of technology, AI, and machine learning in promoting well-being and compassion, as well as the potential for both positive and negative impacts. They mention the power of AI to promote positive stories and cooperation but express concern about how profit motives can influence its use. Finally, they discuss how self-compassion and well-being practices can open the door to other positive attributes and experiences like community, creativity, and curiosity. Warning: Explicit content (swearing)…

Mindful Conversations with Shamash & Calvin

1
S2, E8 - AI and its Impact on Humanity with Trevor Murphy 38:27

2 years ago38:27

38:27

Trevor Murphy has run several animation companies, hiring dozens of staff. In the last decade, he's focused his attention on spirituality and service. He's illustrated several books. In this episode, Trevor shares his feelings on AI and its impact on humanity. He discusses the fear surrounding AI and how it is often portrayed in a negative light. Trevor believes that AI can have positive aspects and shares examples of how AI has transformed people's lives, such as assisting individuals with dyslexia in communication and enhancing their writing skills. Trevor acknowledges that AI's development is accelerating at an exponential rate, and while he sees the benefits it can bring, he emphasizes the importance of treating AI with respect and being cautious about its rapid advancement. Trevor also explores the relationship between AI and creativity, expressing his belief that AI can be a tool to support creative endeavors but should not replace the physical and healing process of human creativity. The conversation also touches on the significance of the journey and process in various aspects of life, including running, spirituality, and the creative process. Trevor emphasises that while goals can provide motivation, the journey itself is often more important than reaching the destination. AI, in his view, can aid in the journey and provide confidence but should not overshadow the value of the process. Trevor's Books: Amuseum of Happiness Nami and Kai - Written with Calvin Wit and Wisdom - Written with Shamash The Joy of Affection - Written with Augusto D. Mello Get in Touch with Us ⁠Calvin Niles⁠ Shamash Alidina…

Mindful Conversations with Shamash & Calvin

1
S2, E8 AI's Impact on Humanity: Mindful Conversations 38:27

2 years ago38:27

38:27

Join us for a captivating exploration of AI's influence on the human experience in "Mindful Conversations Episode 8" Host Calvin Niles, mindfulness expert Shamash Alidina, and special guest Trevor Murphy engage in a thought-provoking dialogue. Discover the transformative power of AI in healthcare, entertainment, and beyond, along with the ethical considerations in Part 1. Part 2 explores the benefits and challenges of AI for well-being and productivity.…

Mindful Conversations with Shamash & Calvin

1
S2, E7 Design Thinking for Mindful AI 34:10

2 years ago34:10

34:10

In this episode, we talk to Lucy Kimbell, Professor of Contemporary Design Practices at Central Saint Martins, about the intersection of design thinking and artificial intelligence (AI). We discuss how design thinking can be used to create more mindful and compassionate AI systems, and how AI can be used to support design thinking processes. Lucy shares her insights on the potential benefits and risks of AI, and how we can ensure that AI is used for good. She also talks about the importance of human-centered design in the development of AI systems. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who is interested in the future of AI and how it can be used to create a better world.…

Mindful Conversations with Shamash & Calvin

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S2 E6 - Shamash and Calvin Explore 7 Things We Do Know About AI 23:36

2 years ago23:36

23:36

In this podcast episode of "Mindful Conversations," hosts Calvin and Shamash discuss their reflections on AI, mindfulness, compassion, wisdom, and their impact on society. They highlight seven insights they have gathered from their interviews: Positive AI Applications : They have found that people with good intentions are creating projects using AI to improve various aspects of society, such as health, climate, equality, and bias reduction. AI Development Timeline : AI has been developing for decades, but recent user-friendly technologies have brought its potential to the forefront. Exponential Growth and Limitations: While there's rapid technological growth, there are also physical limitations to consider, and AI's exponential growth isn't guaranteed. AI's Broad Applications : AI has potential benefits in various domains, even ones like spirituality and personal development. Fear and Excitement : There's a mixture of fear and excitement about AI's potential, often driven by underlying cares for things like family, humanity, and job security. Mindful Approach : The hosts advocate for a mindful approach to AI, neither ignoring nor blindly embracing it, but rather consciously observing its effects on various aspects of life. Understanding AI's Current State : They emphasize that AI models like GPT-3 aren't as intelligent as they seem; they predict based on patterns in existing data and aren't aware of their content. Throughout the conversation, they engage in an exploration of these insights and discuss the importance of maintaining balance, reflection, and active engagement when dealing with AI's potential impact on society and individuals. www.shamashalidina.com www.calvinniles.com…

Mindful Conversations with Shamash & Calvin

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S2 E5 - Crafting Compassionate Conversations: AI's Role in Mindful Inner Dialogue - Cynthia L. Phelps, PhD 44:10

2 years ago44:10

44:10

Join hosts Shamash and Calvin on "Mindful Conversations" as they delve deep into a captivating discussion with the tech-savvy and fascinating Cynthia Phelps, PhD who holds a degree in neuroscience. This episode offers listeners a chance to understand the power of AI in nurturing our emotional well-being and inner dialogue. Key Highlights: Cynthia's Personal Journey: An inspiring recount of how battling autoimmune diseases paved the way to prioritise mindfulness and compassion in daily life. The Physicality of Emotions: Delving into the essence of being present, Cynthia emphasizes how our emotions manifest physically and why it's essential to be attuned to them. Collaboration with Center for Mindful Self Compassion: A glimpse into Cynthia's partnership that resulted in a beneficial mobile app aiming to bolster self-compassion practices. Introduction to Inner Ally: Discover the innovative venture that aims to merge AI and emotional intelligence. The app, in its infancy, is designed to guide users in crafting compassionate responses to their challenging thoughts. Emotional Needs Quiz: An insight into the unique feature that helps identify one's core emotional needs, which can act as a starting point in the app. Tailoring Affirmations: Cynthia's approach ensures users resonate genuinely with affirmations. For all those interested in the intersection of technology, mindfulness, and emotional well-being, this is a must-listen. Don't forget to subscribe, share your reviews, and pass on this episode to fellow enthusiasts!…

Mindful Conversations with Shamash & Calvin

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S2 E4: Empowering a Mindful Future: Yip Ta on AI, Web3, and Women's Empowerment 32:35

2 years ago32:35