In this episode, I share a deeply personal journey that kicked off my 2025 with an unexpected challenge and plenty of travel adventures. While sitting at a familiar Starbucks in Pattaya, Thailand, I struck up a conversation with a fascinating Canadian businessman that lasted for hours. Our dialogue—filled with reflections on life, the fear of not fully living, and the pursuit of passion—ignited an idea that would reshape my approach for the year. He challenged me to record an episode a day for 2025, and that moment, in the midst of travel and spontaneous connection, made me question my boundaries and the sacrifices I’m willing to make for my craft.

I then take you along through my New Year’s experience in Bangkok, where the vibrant chaos of Khao San Road and the stark contrasts of daily life left me with a mix of awe and introspection. I reflect on the pressures of social expectations during New Year’s celebrations, the beauty of raw, unfiltered moments, and the lessons I’ve learned about celebrating intentionally—without alienating others in the process. From managing a radical shift in my lifestyle to embracing the responsibility of sharing my personal and educational insights, this episode is an honest exploration of how travel, chance encounters, and the courage to push myself can redefine what it means to be re-educated.

In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Celine Benoit, an assistant professor in sociology at the University of Nottingham, to discuss a topic that often gets overlooked how children themselves perceive education, autonomy, and the systems designed for their growth. We dive into the sociological constructs of childhood, exploring how cultural, historical, and societal norms shape our understanding of what it means to be a child. Dr. Benoit sheds light on why it’s crucial to involve young voices in conversations about their own learning environments and why the traditional distinction between childhood and adulthood might be holding us back from truly transformative education.

We also tackle the intersection of education and religion, examining how various systems approach religious instruction and the often-overlooked autonomy children possess in navigating these experiences. From discussing the innate curiosity of children to questioning how our school systems suppress autonomy, this conversation challenges the norms of what education should look like. Together, we unpack the importance of allowing young people to participate in decisions about their lives, fostering an inclusive space where children aren’t just passive recipients of knowledge but active contributors to their own development.
If you’ve ever questioned the structure of modern education or wondered what it would mean to truly listen to children’s voices, this episode offers a fresh, thought-provoking perspective that might just change the way you view learning, growth, and what it means to "become."

00:00 – Introducing Dr. Céline Benoit and her research
03:00 – Cultural contrasts in religious education
06:00 – Missing voices: children in policy and education
09:00 – Defining what it means to be a child
12:00 – The social construction of childhood
16:00 – The concept of “being” and “becoming”
20:00 – How schools restrict autonomy and imagination
25:00 – The child’s right to participation
30:00 – Montessori, inclusion, and participatory education
35:00 – Rethinking freedom and structure in learning
40:00 – Religion, spirituality, and the classroom
45:00 – Why death and moral questions matter in education
50:00 – Parental control and the fear of exposure
55:00 – Research ethics and children’s consent
1:00:00 – The limits of neoliberal schooling
1:05:00 – Tension between safety, control, and agency
1:10:00 – Listening as the foundation of educational reform
1:15:00 – Closing reflections on voice, vulnerability, and meaning

In this episode, I sit down with Marcel Parent, a lecturer in the Religions and Cultures program at Concordia University, to explore the deep structures that shape how we think about the world. We dive into postcolonial theory, the ways in which colonial history still influences modern knowledge systems, and the biases we unknowingly inherit. Marcel unpacks how Western thought has constructed the idea of "the East" and how these ideological frameworks continue to shape global perspectives on culture, religion, and education.

We also discuss the tension between intellectualizing a subject and actually experiencing it, using examples from travel, academia, and personal transformation. How do our preconceived notions shape the way we engage with the world? Can we ever experience something without the filter of our learned biases? Marcel challenges conventional ways of thinking, revealing how power, history, and discourse dictate what we accept as knowledge. If you’ve ever questioned the foundation of what you know, this episode is for you.

00:00 – Introducing Dr. Marcel Parent and his background
03:00 – The meaning of “lecturer” and academic roles in Canada
05:00 – Postcolonial theory and unlearning Western assumptions
09:00 – Romanticizing the East and the impact of Orientalism
13:00 – Cognitive dissonance and the limits of intellectual knowledge
18:00 – Ideology, bias, and the psychology of knowing
24:00 – Decolonizing epistemology and confronting power structures
30:00 – Rationality, faith, and the colonial roots of Enlightenment thought
36:00 – How reason and religion became political tools
42:00 – Defining colonialism and its modern legacies
47:00 – Postcolonialism versus Marxism: the politics of liberation
52:00 – Global capitalism and the unfinished work of decolonization
58:00 – Solidarity as a foundation for change
1:03:00 – The purpose of higher education and the search for meaning
1:08:00 – Universities as colonial institutions
1:12:00 – Soft vs. hard decolonization in academia
1:17:00 – Alienation, compassion, and rediscovering humanity
1:23:00 – Walking across the world and listening to people
1:27:00 – Hope, realism, and the future of learning

In this episode, we dive into the profound intersection of education, philosophy, technology, and religion with Dr. David Lewin, a senior lecturer in philosophy of education at the University of Strathclyde. Our conversation explores the fundamental questions underpinning education: What is it? What is it good for? How do we distinguish between education and other forms of influence, such as indoctrination or manipulation? These questions guide us through an exploration of what makes education distinct from mere learning and why it plays a crucial role in shaping our future.

We also discuss the role of technology, not just digital tools but any mechanism of influence in shaping educational experiences. David challenges the assumption that education is just about knowledge transmission and instead presents it as a dialectical process between theory and practice, requiring deep reflection. Our discussion takes a philosophical turn as we examine the broader purpose of education in the context of human mortality. Why do we educate at all? Does education rely on an implicit faith in the future? And what if that future itself is uncertain? Through Heidegger, Tillich, and Teilhard de Chardin, we reflect on the meaning of human progress, questioning whether it’s simply movement for the sake of movement or if it’s leading toward something greater.

00:00 – Introducing Dr. David Lewin and his background

03:00 – Defining the philosophy of education

07:00 – The ethics of influence and the good of education

11:00 – Technology as a means of teaching and transformation

15:00 – Pedagogy, didactics, and educational influence

19:00 – The value of theory in teaching practice

25:00 – Philosophy as reflection on what education means

31:00 – Religion, mysticism, and the immeasurable

37:00 – Heidegger, being, and the question of meaning

43:00 – The faith in the future behind education

49:00 – Mortality, purpose, and why we teach

55:00 – Population, progress, and optimism about humanity

1:01:00 – Freedom, faith, and the limits of reason

1:06:00 – Living with unanswerable questions

1:10:00 – Education as attention and responsiveness

1:15:00 – Closing reflections on action, love, and meaning

In this episode, I reflect on my three-month journey through Japan—a trip that felt both like a lucid dream and one of the most emotionally intense experiences of my life. I explore the stark contrasts of living in Japan, from its unparalleled cleanliness and safety to the deep sense of isolation and disconnection I felt as a traveler. I unpack how my understanding of fear transformed during a late-night bike ride through a jungle, how the strict adherence to rules shaped my perception of order and discipline, and why the country’s structured work culture left me questioning the balance between security and spontaneity.

Beyond the cultural observations, I delve into more personal realizations—how fleeting our memories become, why Polaroids feel like proof of existence, and what traveling alone teaches about love, intimacy, and human connection. I also explore how aesthetic intentionality in Japanese craftsmanship inspired me to rethink creativity and purpose in my own work. Whether you're drawn to travel, philosophy, or the search for meaning in the everyday, this episode offers an unfiltered look into the complexities of navigating a foreign culture and the unexpected lessons that stay with you long after the trip is over.

In this episode, I sit down with Sarah Keller, a junior researcher at the University of Zurich specializing in sustainability and its intersections with science, society, and policy. Sarah’s unique journey started with an unconventional childhood spent traveling across the globe, immersing herself in diverse cultures, and gaining firsthand experience in anthropology long before she knew the term. From her early participant observation in local communities to her academic focus on sustainability, Sarah’s perspective is as rich as it is insightful.

Together, we explore how her global upbringing shaped her understanding of learning, adaptation, and the role of education as socialization. Sarah shares her transition back into the Swiss educational system, her professional journey through sustainability-focused investment, and how her studies in anthropology provided her with a lens to navigate the complex cultural, economic, and environmental dimensions of sustainability.

We also dive into the nuances of sustainability as a term and practice, examining its challenges, such as its perceived elitism and greenwashing, and the importance of viewing it through an inclusive, interdisciplinary framework. Whether you’re curious about sustainability, fascinated by anthropology, or rethinking the purpose of education, this episode offers a wealth of ideas to inspire personal growth and systemic change.

00:00 – Introducing Sarah Helena Keller and her work

03:00 – Early travels and informal education

06:00 – Reintegration into school and socialization

10:00 – Learning through languages and immersion

15:00 – Curiosity, freedom, and motivation to learn

20:00 – Lessons from the Swiss education system

25:00 – The value of apprenticeship and real-world learning

30:00 – Entering university later in life

35:00 – Choosing anthropology and embracing curiosity

40:00 – Redefining success and non-linear growth

45:00 – The role of people in shaping meaningful work

50:00 – Finding purpose in sustainability and social science

55:00 – Cultural perspectives on sustainability

58:00 – Rethinking change, values, and education

1:01:08 – Closing reflections on language, peace, and meaning

In this episode, I have a conversation with Naveen about personal and professional transitions, the concept of elderhood, and the power of intergenerational activism. We explore the transformative role of elders in shaping narratives and fostering a sense of responsibility within communities. Naveen shares personal stories of discovering the impact of being seen as an elder and how stepping into that role has deepened her sense of purpose. Together, we reflect on the importance of integrating old narratives with new ones to create a more inclusive and connected future.

We also delve into the Kaleido Conference, an extraordinary event that brings together diverse voices to inspire creativity, collaboration, and systemic change. Naveen discusses the profound political and cultural implications of Kaleido and how it nurtures meaningful connections. From personal reflections on ancestry and the "shadow self" to the idea of embracing rest as a vital part of sustainability, our conversation touches on the power of authenticity, creativity, and reflection in leading a purposeful life.

Whether you’re curious about redefining leadership, exploring intergenerational wisdom, or finding new ways to align with your personal and creative cycles, this episode offers thought-provoking insights to inspire your own journey.

00:00 – Beginning the conversation and reflections on creativity
04:00 – How are you? Learning to ask and answer honestly
07:00 – The art of self-reflection and emotional vocabulary
10:00 – Ancestry, inheritance, and the roots of creativity
13:00 – Power in connection: learning from our ancestors
17:00 – Understanding shadow work and self-acceptance
22:00 – Following your bliss and the meaning of aliveness
27:00 – Creation without end: purpose beyond productivity
31:00 – The artist within and multidimensional ways of being
36:00 – Beauty as invitation and the ecology of creation
42:00 – Kaleido: a community for creativity and peace
47:00 – Building a living village and embracing multidimensionality
52:00 – Education, connection, and the courage to create
56:00 – The art of rest and reclaiming our natural cycles
1:00:00 – Rest as an act of resistance and renewal
1:04:00 – The future of Kaleido and living fully alive
1:07:00 – Closing reflections on creation, hope, and meaning

In this episode, I sit down with Anais Sägesser to explore a wide range of thought-provoking topics, from the intricacies of personal transformation to the transformative power of systems thinking. We delve into the differences between microeconomics, focused on reducing complexity and systems thinking, which embraces interconnectedness and gradual, thoughtful change. Anais shares how curiosity and a sense of contribution drive impactful work, and we discuss how these principles can be applied to foster collaboration and creativity in education systems.

Our conversation moves fluidly through the challenges of implementing collaboration in large-scale education systems, the importance of experiential learning, and the role of teachers as co-learners in nurturing curiosity. Anais’s insights into fostering a culture of care through initiatives like Scaling for Good and the World Ethic Forum reveal how long-term trust and collaboration can create systemic impact. We also explore what it means to redefine peace as a dynamic concept, embracing intentional chaos as a natural part of transformative change.

We wrap up by contemplating the idea of human flourishing, the metrics that could measure it, and the importance of slowing down to fully embrace change. Whether you're interested in systems thinking, education reform, or personal growth, this episode offers a nuanced and inspiring look at how we can align individual and collective efforts to create a better world.

00:00 – Opening and introduction to Anaïs and her work on systemic change
02:40 – Remembering Kaleido 2023 and what made it feel alive
07:10 – How showing up as a whole person transforms dialogue
10:45 – Childhood sensitivity, nightmares, and learning to see deeply
15:08 – Losing direction in adulthood and rediscovering purpose
18:55 – What “personal transformation” truly means
23:12 – From separation to interconnection — the idea of intra-being
27:36 – Joy and curiosity as forces of transformation
31:44 – Why spiritual experience resists academic language
36:29 – Humility and intention in writing about the ineffable
40:12 – Creativity, curiosity, and experiential learning
45:18 – How education can nurture transformation instead of control
49:27 – The essence of systems thinking and its opposite
53:44 – Applying systems thinking to schooling and collaboration
57:10 – Peace, chaos, and transition in systemic change
1:01:00 – Human flourishing, regeneration, and closing reflections
1:02:40 – End credits and farewell

In this episode, I sit down with Alex Wolf, founder of realutopia, to explore the intersections of travel, personal growth, and systemic change. We begin by sharing stories from our recent travels, Alex’s reflective journey in Sicily, Italy, and my own adventures in Japan and Thailand. These experiences provide a backdrop for a deeper discussion on the challenges of connecting across cultures and the unique insights travel offers into societal structures.

We then transition to Alex’s professional work with the Institute for Future Fit Economies, diving into her focus on post-growth economic models and regenerative systems. Alex candidly shares the challenges of navigating a system that often prioritizes profit over people, touching on the interconnected issues of colonial structures, patriarchy, and unsustainable growth. Together, we examine how organizations can align their values with their actions, the importance of storytelling in driving systemic change, and how effective communication can bridge complex ideas with relatable, human narratives.

This conversation also touches on the emotional dimensions of our work, finding balance, embracing authenticity, and fostering hope even amidst systemic challenges. Whether you're passionate about economic reform, personal development, or storytelling as a tool for change, this episode offers a heartfelt and thought-provoking exploration of how we can navigate and transform the systems we live in.

00:00 – Opening and introductions
03:10 – Integration after Kaleido and the rhythm of rest
06:30 – Balancing reflection, action, and stillness
09:20 – Burnout, purpose, and the long arc of change
12:50 – The challenge of working for unseen outcomes
16:10 – Finding meaning in values rather than validation
18:40 – The extractive system and its colonial roots
22:20 – Economic design, power, and planetary boundaries
26:00 – Defining regenerative systems and why they matter
29:00 – Real Utopia and the work of reimagining organizations
33:40 – Storytelling as the heart of systemic change
36:00 – Embodied communication and guided meditation as practice
41:00 – Authenticity, alignment, and emotional truth
46:30 – The separation between work and self
50:40 – Choosing purpose over productivity
55:00 – Rest, joy, and the future of meaningful work
1:00:00 – Closing reflections and where to find Alex

In this episode, I reconnect with Melanie Rieback, a visionary entrepreneur and founder of Radically Open Security. We explore her groundbreaking journey from organizing tech conferences to reshaping the cybersecurity industry with an innovative, nonprofit model. Melanie shares how she created a company designed to be unsellable, with 90% of its profits donated to charity, and dives into her philosophy of post-growth entrepreneurship, rethinking traditional business models to prioritize ethics, sustainability, and financial non-extraction.

Our conversation also touches on the evolution of technology and AI, reflecting on its cycles of hype and the motivations driving innovation in the tech industry. Melanie discusses the shift from innovation-driven models to capital-driven systems and how this transformation impacts society. We delve into the challenges of bias in AI, the pressures of the financialized economy, and the need for governance structures like steward ownership to create equitable businesses.

If you’re intrigued by the prospect of reimagining business for a fairer and more sustainable future, this episode offers an engaging and thought-provoking discussion. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a technology enthusiast, or someone passionate about social impact, Melanie’s perspectives will inspire you to rethink the relationship between business, innovation, and society.

00:00 – Opening and introduction to Dr. Melanie Rieback

03:20 – The origins of Radically Open Security

07:15 – Why build a non-profit cybersecurity company?

11:00 – Redefining success through transparency and trust

14:30 – Ethical hacking and community-driven innovation

18:20 – Open-source models versus corporate secrecy

22:40 – Early influences and the philosophy of hacking

27:00 – Feminist leadership and emotional intelligence in tech

32:10 – The invisible labor behind ethical entrepreneurship

37:45 – Navigating gender bias in cybersecurity

43:00 – Designing organizations around values

48:20 – Teaching hacking as a moral and creative act

53:10 – The pedagogy of openness and trust

58:45 – Tech, power, and the question of accountability

1:03:00 – Radical transparency as resilience

1:08:10 – Advice for future ethical hackers and educators