Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, many were overwhelmed with stress, anxiety and depression. While this epidemic of stress has been growing over the past decade, it has been exacerbated by the pandemic and the divisive nature of political discourse. As a result, many people feel disconnected, inauthentic, and unhappy, while questioning the source of their unhappiness when they presumably have “everything”—an absence of compassion, for oneself and others, is often the source of the problem. Many of us don’t understand the nature of self-compassion nor the power of compassion to improve our lives and alleviate our suffering. By entering the “Magic Shop”, Jim will share his wisdom and introduce a variety of techniques to change the course of one’s life and share his own lessons learned through the exchange of untold stories of his guests. He will interview authors and experts in the fields of philosophy, psychology, neuroscience, spirituality and religion, as well as individuals with unique points of view. He will also engage his listeners by answering their questions and also at times interview listeners who are willing to share their own stories of challenge and hardship.

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/5/15/19/a930999b-5088-4a5b-8b41-c699492f3ae2_cshop-janaschiachborg-v1-5-1-24-audio-approved.mp3

In this episode of &#34;Into the Magic Shop,&#34; Dr. Jim Doty converses with Dr. Jana Borg about her new book, “Moral AI: And How We Get There,” and the integration of neuroscience and artificial intelligence in understanding and guiding moral decision-making. They explore the concept of a &#34;moral GPS,&#34; the potential of training AI to provide moral guidance and feedback based on personal beliefs and values. Dr. Borg also discusses social synchrony and its potential impact on resilience and social connections as well as advocating for a moral growth mindset over a fixed one. The episode delves into the complexities of ethical AI development, the potential for manipulation, and the importance of diverse perspectives and community involvement in regulating emerging technologies.

Dr. Jana S. Borg: Navigating AI and Ethical Decision-Making

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/5/1/2/b16b6603-39cc-456a-8682-5f07c0cdbe30_hemagicshop-chademengtan-5-1-24-audio-approved.mp3

In this episode of &#34;Into the Magic Shop,&#34; Dr. Jim Doty converses with Chade-Meng Tan, author, philanthropist, motivator, and former Google software engineer. He and Dr. Doty discuss his transition from a child programming prodigy in Singapore to a Google engineer and mindfulness advocate. Meng retired from Google as its &#34;Jolly Good Fellow&#34; at the age of 45. Meng shares his struggle with depression, how meditation offered him solace, and the development of the Search Inside Yourself Leadership Institute. They discuss the profound effects of mindfulness and compassion on personal success and well-being and his books, &#34;Search Inside Yourself,&#34; &#34;Buddhism for All&#34; and &#34;Joy on Demand.&#34; They also discuss his involvement in the &#34;1 Billion Acts of Peace&#34; initiative, which was nominated eight times for the Nobel Peace Prize, his aspirations to help others achieve enlightenment and to create a global Buddhist community network.

Chade-Meng Tan: "Laughing, Meditating, and Succeeding: A Conversation with Chade-Meng Tan"

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/4/17/2/62ea4856-8d86-42a3-b870-cb0fd1936f68_magicshop-shaunashapiro-4-17-24-audio-approved.mp3

In this episode of &#34;Into the Magic Shop,&#34; Dr. Jim Doty hosts Shauna Shapiro, a clinical psychologist and author, to discuss mindfulness, compassion, and mental resilience. They delve into the prevalence of anxiety, stress, depression, and loneliness, and how mindfulness can be a tool to combat these issues. The conversation also covers the commercialization of mindfulness, the significance of self-compassion, and the potential of psychedelics like ketamine in mental health treatment, stressing the importance of responsible use. They highlight the role of mindfulness in emotional regulation, joy, and positive neuroplasticity, and Shapiro shares news regarding her new children&#39;s book, “Good Morning, I Love You, Violet! and an upcoming textbook. The episode emphasizes self-compassion and the transformative potential of mindfulness in mental health care. <a href="https://drshaunashapiro.com/" rel="nofollow">https://drshaunashapiro.com/</a>

Shauna Shapiro: Mindfulness: Medicine for the Mind

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/4/2/20/e5f6f13a-1464-4bfa-af46-7191204359cc_othemagicshop-jennifernadel-v2-4-3-24-approved.mp3

In this episode of &#34;Into the Magic Shop,&#34; Dr. Jim Doty and Jennifer Nadel, award-winning journalist and leader of the UK think tank, Compassion In Politics, delve into the impact of upbringing and personal history on individual behavior and societal engagement. Jennifer discusses her father&#39;s past as a child refugee and the epigenetic effects of trauma. They explore the limitations of the legal system, media’s role in shaping divisive narratives, and the influence of fear and tribal instincts on politics. They also highlight the corruption in politics due to the intertwining of corporate interests and the need for a compassionate approach to governance. As the Executive Chair of the Global Compassion Coalition, Jennifer and Doty discuss the societal consequences of economic policies, the importance of resilience, and the power of kindness and joy in fostering change.

Jennifer Nadel: Compassion in Politics: A New Operating System for Societal Change

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/3/19/21/243a29fc-83ad-4490-9a67-b50d894ded8c_intothemagicshop-bjfogg-4-3-24-approved.mp3

In this episode of &#34;Into the Magic Shop,&#34; Dr. Jim Doty hosts behavior scientist, author, Stanford professor and founder and director of the Stanford Behavior Design Lab, BJ Fogg, to explore the nuances of behavior change and habit formation. With a background influenced by his Mormon upbringing and missionary work, Fogg distinguishes between persuasion and habit change, emphasizing the importance of ease and alignment with personal motivations. They discuss overcoming barriers to change, such as fear of failure and reliance on fluctuating motivation. Fogg&#39;s book, “<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Tiny-Habits/dp/0753553244" rel="nofollow">Tiny Habits</a>” highlights how small successes can shift identities, and they consider the role of hypnosis in this identity shift. The conversation also covers the psychological aspects of change, the value of self-compassion, the impact of positive interactions, and the importance of fostering success in others to strengthen relationships.

BJ Fogg: Unleashing the Power of Tiny Habits: A Conversation with BJ Fogg

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/3/6/3/90b9461e-e500-44a1-b4e9-eca5146d4d47_intothemagicshop-paulgilbert-3-6-24-approved.mp3

In this episode of &#34;Into the Magic Shop,&#34; Dr. Jim Doty hosts Professor Paul Gilbert, a pioneer in Compassion Focussed Therapy. Gilbert shares his personal journey from a carefree childhood in Gambia, to his youth in the often harsh British school system, to his development of compassion-focused therapy. They discuss the impact of Gilbert&#39;s father&#39;s PTSD from WWII and his own experiences with depression and anxiety. The conversation covers the importance of human connections, the physiological effects of relationships, and the role of compassion and mindfulness in emotional regulation. They also explore the concept of free will, the effects of psychedelics, and the profound responsibility to use consciousness to alleviate suffering and contribute positively to the world. <a href="https://www.compassionatemind.co.uk/" rel="nofollow">https://www.compassionatemind.co.uk/</a>

Paul Gilbert: The Transformative Power of Compassion: Unraveling the Secrets of Emotional Regulation

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/2/22/3/7e7bd644-e777-4dc0-a76a-858ce53fdfa6_emagicshop-robertwaldinger-v2-2-22-24-approved.mp3

In this episode of &#34;Into the Magic Shop,&#34; Dr. Jim Doty hosts psychiatrist, psychoanalyst, and Zen priest, Dr. Robert Waldinger who directs the Harvard Study of Adult Development, one of the longest-running studies of adult life ever conducted. Dr. Doty and Waldinger discuss the brain, happiness, and human thriving and explore the Study of Adult Development&#39;s findings on the importance of relationships and health for a fulfilling life. Their conversation covers societal issues such as income inequality and the pursuit of wealth, as well as personal practices like meditation and presence. They also consider the role of psychedelics in mental health and the influence of ego on well-being. Dr. Waldinger shares his personal journey and underscores the significance of nurturing relationships for happiness and life improvement.

Dr. Robert Waldinger: Investing in Relationships: The Key to a Fulfilling Life

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/2/14/21/020623e6-69a7-4d05-8771-3cee047cf3fb_intothemagicshop-annasmith-v2-2-14-24-approved.mp3

In this episode of the &#34;Into the Magic Shop,” Dr. Jim Doty reconnects with actress, playwright and professor, Anna Deavere Smith, to discuss her personal journey, from her education in a segregated Baltimore to her initial aspirations of becoming a psychiatrist to her work as a playwright and actress. They discuss her plays &#34;Notes from the Field&#34; which sheds light on the school-to-prison pipeline as well as “The Ghost of Slavery,&#34; which stemmed from her discovery that her home state of Maryland did not secede from the Union. The play explores the historical injustice of a Maryland apprenticeship law that re-enslaved children, under the guise of vocational training, until they reached adulthood. Their conversation covers the need for visual evidence to awaken us to injustices, the challenges faced by women and people of color in expressing emotions professionally, and the societal pressure to conform to certain standards. The episode highlights the theme of resilience and the impact of societal narratives on individual happiness and authenticity.

Anna Deavere Smith: Addressing the ghosts of our past with empathy and understanding to forge a path toward a more equitable future.

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/2/7/1/e53813e9-0530-4223-99cd-0df09e640e61_themagicshop-charlieengle-v2-3-2-7-24-approved.mp3

In this episode of &#34;Into the Magic Shop,&#34; host Dr. James Doty talks with Charlie Engle, writer, runner, recovering addict and speaker about overcoming addiction and finding self-awareness. Engle shares his journey from childhood experiences with alcohol to his struggles with substance abuse, his prison experience, and his eventual recovery. They discuss the role of childhood trauma, the importance of self-compassion, and the transformative power of running in Engle&#39;s life. Engle also touches on his 2016 book &#34;Running Man,&#34; his public speaking, and his work with others in recovery. The conversation highlights the significance of self-acceptance and service to others in personal growth and healing. <a href="https://www.charlieengle.com/" rel="nofollow">https://www.charlieengle.com</a>

Charlie Engle: From Addiction to Ultramarathons: An Unconventional Path to Redemption

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/1/30/23/958e96a9-236d-4740-aec5-3f6f26a29c2f_emagicshop-luisgallardo-audio-1-31-24-approved.mp3

In this podcast episode, Dr. James Doty converses with Luis Gallardo, founder of The World Happiness Foundation (www.world happiness.foundation), Author of Happytalism and The Exponentials of Happiness (<a href="https://www.teohlab.com/happytalismo" rel="nofollow">https://www.teohlab.com/happytalismo</a>), and Director of the Gross Global Happiness program at the United Nations University for Peace. Dr. Doty and Gallardo explore the internal drivers of happiness, the power of forgiveness and compassion, and the integration of wisdom traditions and spirituality with scientific research. Gallardo introduces Meta Pets cards for coaching children <a href="https://www.teohlab.com/metapets" rel="nofollow">www.teohlab.com/metapets</a>. These 64 cosmic animal cards help you to know your gifts and your shadows in order to find your life purpose and transcend. Doty shares his &#34;alphabet of the heart&#34; mnemonic for cultivating values like compassion and gratitude. They also discuss the impact of positive thoughts and mindfulness on well-being and the importance of addressing collective trauma with collective healing. The conversation touches on the need for interconnected communities and the embodiment of beliefs for a happier world. www.gallardo.world

Luis Gallardo: The World Happiness Foundation: Building a New Paradigm for Global Well-being

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2024/1/24/3/29cf667c-0388-4397-aae7-71365449ebb0_magicshop-tiffanyshlain-audio-1-24-24-approved.mp3

In this podcast episode, Dr. Jim Doty hosts Tiffany Shlain, artist, activist, Emmy-nominated filmmaker, national bestselling author, and the founder of the Webby Awards. Tiffany’s art spans sculptures, films, to performance. Her themes explore the intersection of feminism, philosophy, technology, neuroscience, and nature. In this episode, she and Dr. Doty discuss the intricacies of adolescence, her film, “The Adolescent Brain,” which debuts March of 2024, the influence of social media, and the benefits of disconnecting from technology. Tiffany shares her practice of taking a weekly tech-free day which has enhanced her creativity and self-awareness. They discuss the importance of self-regulation, presence, and the therapeutic effects of journaling and self-compassion. The conversation also covers the significance of human connections, the power of manifestation, and the need for intentional relationship-building.

Tiffany Shlain: Understanding the Brain, Emotions, and Self-Compassion: Navigating Adolescence in the Digital Age

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/12/27/5/dba36000-eb33-4c0a-9164-4affa084dc37_magicshop-emmaseppa_la_-v2-12-27-23-approved.mp3

Emma Seppälä: In this episode of the &#34;Into the Magic Shop&#34; podcast, host Dr. Jim Doty interviews Emma Seppälä, science director at Stanford University’s Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education, about her new book &#34;Sovereign.&#34; They discuss the concept of sovereignty in relation to personal fulfillment and empowerment, addressing issues such as burnout and unhappiness among high achievers, and the importance of self-care, positive self-talk, and positive relationships. Seppälä shares her personal experiences with meditation and her research on breathing techniques for anxiety and trauma. They also touch on the problem of seeking external solutions for internal problems, and the need for a holistic approach in medicine.

Emma Seppälä: Unleashing your inner power: The path to sovereignty

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/12/13/19/2a9ff88e-bd04-485b-b78f-60da17aa23d7_tothemagicshop-deanornish-v2-12-13-23-approved.mp3

In this episode of the &#34;Into the Magic Shop&#34; podcast, host Dr. Jim Doty and Dr. Dean Ornish discuss the intersection of spirituality and physical health. Dr. Ornish is president and founder of the nonprofit Preventive Medicine Research Institute in Sausalito, California, as well as clinical professor of medicine at the University of California, San Francisco. Ornish shares his personal journey, emphasizing the importance of inner peace, meditation, and a plant-based diet. They discuss his most recent book, Undo It!: How Simple Lifestyle Changes Can Reverse Most Chronic Diseases, and well as the impact of anger on health, the pursuit of longevity, and the importance of authentic human connection. Their conversation delves into the role of compassion and forgiveness in healing, the progress of his program, and the power of choice in overcoming darkness. Ornish concludes by discussing the importance of self-care and self-love.

Dr. Dean Ornish: The Lifestyle Medicine Program: The Intersection of Spirituality and Physical Health

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/12/6/15/7ed69c83-79c4-42e2-b679-45bd1755aba0_emagicshop-lisakristine-11-29-23-auio-approved.mp3

In this episode of &#34;Into the Magic Shop&#34; podcast, host Dr. Jim Doty interviews Lisa Kristine, a humanitarian photographer and activist against human sex trafficking and slavery. They discuss their shared travels, Lisa&#39;s early life and career, and her work documenting the atrocities of human trafficking in various locations, including Ghana and India. Lisa talks about her first experience witnessing slavery in the brick kilns in India. She also emphasizes that trafficking also exists in the United States. Lisa discusses how her work has taken her to 150 countries, exposing her to indigenous people and cultural mores. She talks about the power of connecting to nature as the truest form of understanding the nature of reality and our place in the world. They continue to discuss the challenges in addressing sex trafficking, the injustice in the legal system, and the need for a holistic approach to combat trafficking. Lisa talks about the power of photography in developing empathy, curiosity and beauty, ultimately challenging prejudices.

Lisa Kristine: Documenting the Unseen: A Photographer’s Mission Against Human Trafficking and Slavery

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/11/27/22/ad5859e8-ee86-4a6b-bc8a-579131fbb42a_hop-robertsapolsky-ep21-12-6-23-audio-approved.mp3

In this episode of &#34;Into the Magic Shop,&#34; Dr. Jim Doty hosts a conversation with esteemed behavioral scientist and Stanford professor of biology and neurology, Robert Sapolsky. They discuss Sapolsky&#39;s work in primatology, his experiences in the field and his views on free will, most recently explored in great length in his latest book, “<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Determined-Science-Life-without-Free/dp/0525560971" rel="nofollow">Determined: A Science of Life without Free Will</a>.” Sapolsky shares his skepticism towards the concept of free will, arguing that our actions are influenced by factors like genes, evolution, and environmental interactions. He also challenges traditional notions of moral responsibility. While Dr. Doty and Sapolsky explore the existential implications of these ideas and the notion that every action is predetermined, Sapolsky offers a hopeful conclusion to his research suggesting that change is possible even without free will.

Robert Sapolsky: Finding Meaning in a World without Free Will

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/11/23/23/e35961ea-7e6a-46c6-b818-d83ae8b9d721_gicshop-dansiegel-ep20-11-22-23-audio-approved.mp3

In this episode of “Into the Magic Shop,” host Dr. Jim Doty interviews Dr. Dan Siegel, a professor of psychiatry at UCLA and executive director of the Mindsight Institute. They discuss various topics including the concept of self, the developing brain, attachment theory, and trauma. Dr. Siegel also introduces his upcoming book, “IntraConnected: MWe (Me + We) as the Integration of Self, Identity, and Belonging,” which combines personal reflections with scientific discussions of how the mind, brain, and relationships shape who we are. He also explores attachment theory and its relationship to temperament. Dr. Doty and Dr. Siegel discuss the Enneagram, a psycho-spiritual system of development, and its potential scientific basis. Dr. Siegel shares his concept of integration and its relation to manifestation, and both discuss the importance of daily mindfulness practice.

Dr. Dan Siegel: Evolving the notion of the self, from an isolated and separate Me to a relational, awe-embracing MWe (Me + We)

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/11/16/4/405ddf2d-baaf-40b1-9e74-2c5eef51cc7d_shop-neelamaeyres-ep19-11-16-23-audio-approved.mp3

In this episode of “Into the Magic Shop,” host Dr. Jim Doty interviews Neelama Eyres, a director of the Applied Compassion Training program that is part of Stanford’s Center for Compassion and Altruism Research and Education. They discuss the program&#39;s aim to cultivate compassion and translate it into real-world action. Eyres, who recently went through a divorce, shares her personal experiences and how compassion played a crucial role in navigating this challenging time. She emphasizes the importance of compassion not only towards others but also towards oneself. She also explains the difference between empathy and compassion and the role of suffering in the human condition. The conversation also covers the concept of leadership, the power of simple acts of kindness, and the importance of teaching compassion in schools.

Neelama Eyres: Small acts, big impact: Insights from the Applied Compassion Training program

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/11/8/0/57640d09-9ec8-4844-8197-c68a885e846a_hop-ericstanley-v1-ep18-11-8-23-audio-approved.mp3

In this episode of the &#34;Into the Magic Shop,&#34; Dr. Jim Doty interviews Eric Stanley, an internet entrepreneur, violinist, and founder of One Way Hope, a network of positive and uplifting brands with over 12 Million followers. They discuss Eric&#39;s journey, from learning violin at the age of 12 to inspiring millions through his music and positive messages. Eric shares his brother&#39;s struggle with addiction after being shot multiple times and how it led to a faith-based recovery, inspiring many. He also talks about his company, Stay Inspired, which was founded in 2018 to show the positive side of the internet. They discuss the power of storytelling, authenticity, and the importance of focusing on positive narratives. They also touch on the toxic effects of negativity and the need for love and acceptance. stayinspirednow.com

Eric Stanley: The Power of Spreading Positivity

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/10/30/21/47047095-8967-4aa2-80cb-98805d0ec4a7_agicshop-tamsin-v1-ep17-11-1-23-audio-approved.mp3

In this episode of &#34;Into the Magic Shop,&#34; host Dr. Jim Doty interviews evolutionary biologist and biomimicry expert, Tamsin Woolley-Barker. They discuss her research on baboons and human evolution. They also explore the shift from mechanistic thinking to living design, the challenges of human interaction, and the potential for organizations to scale exponentially. The conversation further delves into the importance of indigenous knowledge in conservation efforts and the need for respect and understanding of local traditions. The episode emphasizes the need for studying and understanding the natural world, designing systems based on its principles, and fostering inclusivity and belonging.

Tamsin Woolley-Barker: The endangered generation: Indigenous peoples, climate change, and hope for the future.

https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/pod-public-media-files/2023/10/18/1/7e301895-283c-43c1-a31e-e77e435a08ce_hop-chipcomins-v1-ep16-10-18-23-audio-approved.mp3

In this episode of &#34;Into the Magic Shop,&#34; Dr. Jim Doty hosts a conversation with Chip Comins, CEO of the American Renewable Energy Institute (AREI) and the Founder of American Renewable Energy Day (AREDAY). Chip traces his interest in these areas back to his childhood and his work with the Lakota tribe. He and Dr. Doty discuss the creation of AREDAY, which recently celebrated its 20th Anniversary, and its mission of addressing climate change. The conversation also covers the problems with capitalism, the impact of colonization on indigenous cultures, and the potential of hydrogen as a clean energy carrier. They highlight the need for developed countries to assist developing nations and criticize the inaction of the wealthy in addressing environmental crises.

Chip Comins: The Obligations of Wealthy Nations: Addressing Climate Change and Economic Inequality

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, many were overwhelmed with stress, anxiety and depression.

Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, many were overwhelmed with stress, anxiety and depression. While this epidemic of stress has been growing over the past decade, it has been exacerbated by the pandemic and the divisive nature of political discourse. As a result, many people feel disconnected, inauthentic, and unhappy, while questioning the source of their unhappiness when they presumably have “everything”—an absence of compassion, for oneself and others, is often the source of the problem.

Many of us don’t understand the nature of self-compassion nor the power of compassion to improve our lives and alleviate our suffering. By entering the “Magic Shop”, Jim will share his wisdom and introduce a variety of techniques to change the course of one’s life and share his own lessons learned through the exchange of untold stories of his guests. He will interview authors and experts in the fields of philosophy, psychology, neuroscience, spirituality and religion, as well as individuals with unique points of view. He will also engage his listeners by answering their questions and also at times interview listeners who are willing to share their own stories of challenge and hardship.
