March 17, 2025

325: The Transformative Power of Forgiveness: Insights from Dr. Frederic Luskin and Lyndon Harris

44 minutes

Discover the profound insights of Dr. Frederic Luskin, renowned psychologist and director of the Stanford Forgiveness Project, as he unpacks the powerful role forgiveness plays in our lives. Alongside him, former Episcopal priest, Lyndon Harris shares his compelling journey of healing after the 9/11 tragedy, illustrating the transformative power of forgiveness. Together, they share personal narratives and professional insights that highlight forgiveness as a vital skill for mental and emotional well-being.

Our conversation dives deep into the complex dynamics between forgiveness and survival. We explore how anger can initially serve as a source of empowerment but often becomes a restrictive force that holds us back. By recognizing forgiveness as a skill that can be taught and honed over time, supported by extensive research, we reveal how it can shift individuals from a victim mindset to a more empowered life story. This episode sheds light on how forgiveness, though not a moral directive, is an essential component of self-care that can be developed to improve our capacity for compassion and authentic living.

In this episode, you will hear:

Exploration of forgiveness as a vital skill for mental and emotional well-being

Discussion on the complex relationship between anger, empowerment, and forgiveness

Emphasis on forgiveness as a teachable skill, supported by academic research

The role of gratitude and self-forgiveness in the healing process

Practical tools and advice for overcoming resentment and embracing compassion

Follow and Review:

We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast.

Supporting Resources:

The Art of Forgiveness- Frederic Luskin, Ph.D

The Forgive for Good Recovery Workbook

TedTalk - Lyndon Harris

NovusMindfulLife.com

Episode Credits

If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com Let them know we sent you.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

...more