Life Examined

The  most advanced technology ever discovered is the three pound organ  encased inside our skulls. In his latest book, “Livewired”  neuroscientist David Eagleman describes why our brains are constantly  changing: the more the brain absorbs the more it adjusts. How has the  pandemic impacted this amazing brain circuitry? And what are the impacts  on children's brains, stuck at home with extended hours of screen time?

California Surgeon General Dr. Nadine Burke Harris talks about the  latest science behind trauma, and how toxic stress can literally change  our brains, our immune systems and our genes. Also an imam and rabbi  share how their faith, teachings, and prayer provide comfort and healing  from trauma.

The debut episode of KCRW’s show Foxhole features author Pico  Iyer, who shares how these unusual times can be an opportunity for  inner-growth. And a Hindu nun and Tibetan Buddhist teacher offer advice  for how to quiet our minds when we’re alone and anxious.

The novel coronavirus pandemic is a daily reminder of how quickly life can change. In his latest book, “Until the End of Time: Mind, Matter, and Our Search for Meaning in an Evolving Universe,” theoretical physicist Brian Greene talks about processing those changes, explores the meaning of impermanence, and explains the importance of living in the here and now.

Deepak Chopra, renowned wellness expert and author of “Metahuman: Unleashing your infinite potential,” Jonathan Bastian and offers his perspective on the current global pandemic. He says we are grieving an old way of life. Now is the moment to reevaluate our lives, habits and existence. Also, grief expert David Kessler explains why grief is an emotion that arises out of unwanted change.

Deirdre Barrett, dream researcher and assistant professor of psychology at Harvard University, Jonathan Bastian to discuss how the prolonged global pandemic has impacted the way we dream. Why are we having such vivid dreams at this time  — and why are so many of us dreaming about bugs and jail cells?

Award-winning poet and essayist Jane Hirshfield joins KCRW’s Jonathan Bastian to talk about her latest collection of poems "Ledger," Buddhism, and the importance of words and imagery in times of great upheaval.

Author Timothy Egan talks with Jonathan Bastian about walking the Via Francigena and how his experiences walking the pilgrim’s trail gave him a greater understanding of Christianity, life and faith.

Professor Yolanda Pierce, Dean of the Howard University School of Divinity,  talks withJonathan Bastian about the history and the legacy of the Black church and its connection with the Black Lives Matter movement.

The pandemic has placed death and the acknowledgement of our mortality front and center in our consciousness and yet when it comes to dying, we understand little and do even less to prepare for it. Is there a good way to die? How do the funeral rights and bereavement rituals in other cultures provide solace and comfort?