Welcome to the StreetSmart Wisdom Podcast! In this special Brooklyn Stories episode, host Steve Stein brings together two true Brooklyn legends, Ditto David Tawil and Larry Neymer, for a journey back to the old-school streets of Brooklyn. They share firsthand stories from a time when the playground and neighborhood parks were classrooms for life, and unforgettable characters—like Frankie Hot Dog and Vinny Cigar—filled the block.

You'll hear Ditto David Tawil talk about how street basketball shaped his life and inspired his book, "Hoop Dance," a life-affirming guide to staying active, building character, and connecting generations. Larry Neymer, co-founder of E! Entertainment Television, reveals how a scrappy Brooklyn start led to building a global media empire—complete with behind-the-scenes stories of the Kardashians, Howard Stern, and even crashing the Oscars red carpet.

Plus, Steve Stein reads excerpts from his own Brooklyn memoir, The Sneaker Tree, capturing the vibrancy, color, and camaraderie of growing up in Brooklyn during the summer of '69. Tune in for rapid-fire memories about favorite street games, classic nicknames, hustles for first jobs, and legendary after-school hangouts.

This episode is a heartfelt, humorous, and honest celebration of Brooklyn's timeless spirit—and a reminder that street wisdom never goes out of style.

Here's a comprehensive sequence of topics covered in this episode of the StreetSmart Wisdom Podcast, with main topics and detailed sub-topics beneath each:

1. Introduction to StreetSmart Wisdom Podcast and Wisdom Feed Plus

• Introduction to podcast themes and mission

• Promotion of Wisdom Feed Plus membership and its benefits

• Emphasis on ancient wisdom, mindfulness, and a supportive community

2. Launching the Brooklyn Stories Series

• Backstory on the creation of "The Sneaker Tree" story

• Importance of sharing old-school Brooklyn experiences with younger generations

• Commentary on today's digital culture and "unplugging"

• Introduction to the episode's guests:

  Ditto David Tawil

  and

  Larry Neymer

3. Guest Introductions and Biographies

• Overview of

  Ditto David Tawil

  's work, especially his book "Hoop Dance"

  • The philosophy of basketball as life lessons and community building

  • The tradition of multi-generational pickup games in Brooklyn

• Introduction to

  Larry Neymer

  's memoir "Off Script"

  • Journey from Coney Island to founding E!

  • Discussion of his rise through the media industry and impact on pop culture

4. Brooklyn Childhood Memories and Street Culture

• The unique nature of growing up in old-school Brooklyn

• Childhood without modern technology—community, street games, and local hangouts

• The "Sneaker Tree" as a symbol of the era

• Folklore and the passing down of stories and traditions

5. The Role of Sports in Community and Personal Development

• Pickup basketball as a life teacher

• Building character, resilience, and friendships on the court and in the park

• The importance of mentorship and intergenerational relationships

6. Nostalgia and Today's Digital World

• Conversation around "historical nostalgia" and renewed interest in analog experiences (vinyl, stickball, unplugging)

• The impact of technology and social media on youth, including issues of isolation and rage

• The push for compelling offline alternatives to screen time

7. Legendary Brooklyn Figures and Neighborhood Nicknames

• Sharing favorite local nicknames and their origins (e.g., Hot Dog Frankie, Vinny Cigar, Aldo Second Story)

• The stories behind the nicknames and what they reveal about neighborhood dynamics

8. Favorite Brooklyn Street and Park Games

• Recollections of punch ball, stickball, sliding on blacktop, and other classic games

• Unique adaptations and tricks for street games (e.g., taping bats to avoid police confiscation)

• The importance of these games in community cohesion

9. First Jobs and Hustling in Brooklyn

• Early work experiences: selling cigarettes, pushing carts, shining shoes, working in family stores

• How these jobs shaped character and provided life lessons

10. Iconic Brooklyn Food and Flavors

• Favorite local treats (knishes, onion pretzels, egg creams)

• Debates over flavors and vendors

• Creative twists on classic Brooklyn fare (e.g., the "hard vanilla egg cream")

11. Reflections on Brooklyn's Life Lessons

• How Brooklyn upbringing instilled discipline, resilience, and camaraderie

• Praise for legendary coaches and mentors

• The enduring value of getting "knocked down and getting up"—both literally and figuratively

12. "The Sneaker Tree" as a Living Project and Call to Action

• Evolution of "The Sneaker Tree" from story to novel to potential streaming series

• Invitation for listeners to engage and contribute

• The idea of creating new folklore for families today

13. Closing Thoughts and Gratitude

• Acknowledgments to contributors and community members

• Final reflections on the magic of Brooklyn

• Calls for continued storytelling and community-building

This episode skillfully wove together stories of coming-of-age in Brooklyn, the impact of local culture and sports, and deeper reflections on how those experiences carry forward into life today—offering laughter, nostalgia, and a deep sense of community along the way.

In this inspiring episode, Steve Stein sits down with acclaimed author and mindset expert Karen Salmansohn for an in-depth conversation about her upcoming book, "Year to Die for Life: How to Maximize Joy and Minimize Regret Before Your Time Runs Out." Karen and Steve explore how mortality awareness can catalyze a life well-lived, waking us up from autopilot to tap into deeper authenticity, gratitude, and actionable joy.

• Near Life Experiences vs. Truly Living: Karen explains how many of us go through our days on autopilot—scrolling mindlessly, distracted, and missing out on real, vibrant life. She shares strategies for waking up and savoring every moment.

• The Power of Mortality Awareness: Inspired by her father's passing, Karen reveals how pondering life's finiteness isn't morbid—it's motivating. Knowing our time is limited helps us act with greater urgency and intention.

• Writing Your Own Eulogy & "To Die" List: Karen introduces practical exercises like writing your own eulogy (with a fun, Mad Libs-inspired template!) and creating a "To Die List"—a collection of what truly matters most.

• Core Values for a Meaningful Life: Explore Karen's seven core values (Authentic, Brave, Curious, Discerning, Empathic Love, Fun, Gratitude) and learn how aligning your daily habits with these values helps reduce regret and boost fulfillment.

• Identity-Based Habits: How embracing positive self-identity and values leads to powerful, lasting behavioral change.

• Daily Practices to Cultivate Mindfulness: Accessible tools such as gratitude rituals in the morning, "speed bumps" (moments of awareness during the day), visual meditations, and journaling for self-reflection.

• Mortality Marble Jar: Karen introduces a visual monthly ritual—removing a marble for each month left in your projected life—which brings heightened appreciation and increased mindfulness to each day.

• Building Meaningful Relationships: Why time spent intentionally with those you love, and the ripples you leave, matter above all else.

• Simple morning meditations to start your day with gratitude and intention

• How to use speed bumps and discernment to pause and make more meaningful daily choices

• Fun, engaging habits like the "fun jar" and monthly self-reflection with marbles

• Journaling prompts to deepen self-awareness and discover what matters most

• "A spoonful of humor helps the psychological tools go down."

• "Mortality awareness isn't morbid—it's motivating."

• "The more you 'you' you are, the happier you'll be."

• Karen's Website: notsalmon.com

• Preorder the Book: yourtodieforlife.com

• SurfingTheTsunami.com – Wisdom Feed Plus Membership

Love this episode? Join the growing community at Wisdom Feed Plus for exclusive access to meditations, expert interviews, and a supportive community to help you stress less and live more.

Thank you for tuning in to StreetSmart Wisdom! If you enjoyed this episode, please rate, review, and share the podcast with your friends. See you next time!

Welcome back to another insightful episode of the StreetSmart Wisdom Podcast. I'm your host, Steve Stein, and today we delve into the realm of mental resilience and inner strength with our exceptional guest, Melli O'Brien. Melli, cofounder of mindfulness.com and an esteemed educator and coach in mental health, joins us to explore the concept of "Deep Resilience."

In this episode, we discuss her upcoming book, "Deep Resilience: A Four Step Journey to Unshakable Inner Strength," and dive into the importance of mental, emotional, and spiritual strength in navigating the ever-changing, often challenging world we live in today. Melli shares her unique RISE method, aimed at teaching skills to recognize and regulate thoughts and emotions, inhabit the present moment, stay connected to values, and take empowered action.

We also delve into practical exercises like anchoring, which help cultivate states of inner calm and presence. So, sit back, relax, and get ready for a conversation filled with wisdom, practical tips, and strategies to help you rise to life's challenges with resilience and grace.

TIMESTAMP:

00:00 "Street Smart Wisdom Podcast Intro"

04:17 Resilience Patterns in Adversity

10:44 "Deep Resilience Method Overview"

14:57 Mastering Skills Through Practice

17:43 Practice of Anchoring for Stress Management

19:37 Anchoring for Authentic Well-being

24:13 Find Calm Through Breath

29:13 "Embrace Inner Calm"

33:19 Anchoring Practice for Mind Clarity

36:39 Mindfulness Needs Humor

39:10 Recognize and Regulate the Mind

42:46 Humor for Diffusion and Redirection

45:13 Tony Robbins' Power Move Mindset

50:02 Deep Resilience: Embodied Mindfulness Practice

53:50 Join WisdomFeed Plus Community

54:52 "Surfing the Tsunami: Get Started"

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Welcome back to another enriching episode of the StreetSmart Wisdom Podcast! I'm your host, Steve Stein, and today we have a transformative conversation with our esteemed guest, Mark Matousek. In this episode titled "Mark Matousek on Emerson's Path to Self-Reliance and Spiritual Consciousness," we dive deep into the timeless wisdom of Ralph Waldo Emerson and explore how his philosophies on self-reliance, nonconformity, and spiritual democracy can illuminate our paths today.

Mark, the author of the insightful book "Lessons from an American Stoic: How Emerson Can Change Your Life," shares invaluable lessons on accessing inner wisdom without the need for external permission, and discusses Emerson's relevance in an age overwhelmed by social media and societal pressures. We examine how personal connection to the divine is accessible to everyone, supported by practical spiritual exercises inspired by stoicism to enhance self-awareness.

Together, we navigate the importance of grounding oneself to maintain authenticity, the benefits of taking breaks from social influences, and the profound impact of spending quality introspective time. We also touch on the powerful stoic practice of "viewing from above," reframing life's challenges into opportunities for growth, demonstrating how imagination can reshape our realities.

Join us as we traverse through Emerson's critical ideas on personal wellness, individuality, and the sacred marriage of opposites, alongside insights into Matousek's personal journey influenced by figures like James Hillman and their shared mission to reduce suffering through self-discovery and mindfulness. Don't miss this enlightening episode, providing you with essential tools to thrive in today's complex world.

Remember to check out Mark Matousek's work at markmatousek.com and join our community at WisdomFeed Plus for more resources on personal development, health, and wellness. Tune in and empower yourself with some StreetSmart wisdom!

TIMESTAMP:

00:00 Street Smart Wisdom: Inspirational and vetted content.

04:13 Emerson's ideas offer relevant guidance for today.

08:42 Transcendentalism: Personal divine experience over religious institutions.

10:57 Traditions not needed for spiritual enlightenment.

16:12 Grounded wisdom, Emerson's impact, accessible stoicism.

18:21 Being true to oneself is life's greatest achievement.

20:57 Being eccentric is valuable; individuality fosters creativity.

24:01 Engaged quiet time for self-reflection.

28:33 Stoicism focused on reducing suffering, like CBT.

32:09 Finding opportunity in adversity brings positive change.

36:17 Empowerment comes from changing victim mindset.

37:51 Be present; avoid living life on autopilot.

43:54 Emerson: Embrace contradictions, form unique originality.

45:50 Embrace contradictions; expand understanding and possibilities.

47:59 Opposites teach valuable lessons for reconciliation.

51:23 Join WisdomFeed Plus for wellness and community.

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Welcome to another enlightening episode of the StreetSmart Wisdom Podcast! I'm your host, Steve Stein, founder of Better Listen and Wisdom Feed Plus. Today, we have the immense privilege of conversing with Dr. Rick Hanson, a best-selling author and renowned speaker, whose work beautifully intertwines mindfulness, clinical psychology, and neuroscience.

In this episode, we dive deep into the concept of sensitization and neuroplasticity, exploring how our inner world shapes our existence and overall well-being. Rick shares his journey—from a young boy grappling with feelings of inadequacy and social awkwardness to becoming a leading figure at the fascinating intersection of brain science and contemplative wisdom.

We also reflect on the impermanence of life through the poignant metaphor of a sand mandala, and Rick offers street smart wisdom on how to navigate this ever-changing world with resilience and inner peace.

This episode is rich with insights and practical takeaways that will inspire you to cultivate a deeper understanding of yourself and your place in the world. So, buckle up and get ready for a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Rick Hanson, right here on the StreetSmart Wisdom Podcast.

TIMESTAMP:

00:00 Street Smart Wisdom Podcast with Steve Stein.

04:04 UCLA at 16, evolved to psychology intersection.

07:12 Socially awkward, turned to inner world exploration.

11:57 Everything is cloud-like; live with less attachment.

15:34 Life is transient, memories fade over time.

19:02 Skipping grades poses social challenges for students.

22:53 Realization: It was up to me.

26:39 Join WisdomFeed Plus for curated wellness content.

27:42 Begin your peaceful journey at surfingthetsunami.com

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Instagram: https://bit.ly/RealWisdomFeed WisdomFeed

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Welcome to the StreetSmart Wisdom Podcast! I'm your host, Steve Stein, and in today's episode, we have the incredible Dr. Rick Hanson joining us. Rick, an acclaimed author known for works like "Buddha's Brain," will be diving deep into a fascinating discussion on two intriguing concepts: sensitization and neuroplasticity.

We'll explore what it means to become sensitized, how this process shapes our reactions, and how it intertwines with neuroplasticity—the brain's ability to change through experiences. Rick shares practical advice on understanding our own triggers, managing negative interactions, and even healing from past traumas through a powerful technique called "linking."

Expect valuable insights and practical wisdom designed to bring ancient ideas to the street level of everyday life. Stay tuned as we uncover how understanding these principles can influence your journey to mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and overall well-being. Join us for an enlightening conversation that promises to teach you tools for leading a happier, healthier life.

TIMESTAMP:

00:00 Street Smart Wisdom podcast: Inspirational discussions.

05:12 Controlling parents affects reactions to criticism.

08:08 Negativity bias makes negative experiences impactful.

12:49 Speak from your heart to influence outcomes.

15:42 Understand your brain, manage triggers effectively.

18:43 Negative experiences, and positive experiences link neurologically.

22:32 Join Wisdom Feed Plus for personal growth.

23:33 Visit surfingthetsunami.com for more information.

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Instagram: https://bit.ly/RealWisdomFeed WisdomFeed

Website: https://bit.ly/WisdomFeedHome BetterListen

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Welcome to another enlightening episode of the StreetSmart Wisdom Podcast! Today, we have a compelling conversation with Bryan Reeves, a renowned relationship coach and author of the acclaimed book, "Choose Her Every Day or Leave Her." I'm your host, Steve Stein, and we'll be diving deep into Bryan's insightful journey—from being an Air Force captain to becoming a beacon of wisdom in the realm of intimate relationships.

We'll explore the nuances of commitment, the importance of being genuinely present, and the transformative power of sincere apologies. Bryan shares invaluable advice on maintaining healthy relationships, fostering emotional connections through meaningful rituals, and navigating the often tricky landscape of gender dynamics in communication.

Whether you're single, partnered, or anywhere in between, this episode offers essential wisdom that can elevate your personal relationships. Plus, we introduce "Surfing the Tsunami" and the Wisdom Feed Plus membership, curated to support your journey towards personal development and wellness.

Stay tuned as we unpack the heartfelt stories and practical tips that can help you choose love every day. Let's get into it!

TIMESTAMP:

00:00 Street Smart Wisdom features Brian Reeves interview.

05:55 Realization of relationship struggles while counseling couples.

07:02 Never fully committed to five-year relationship.

12:38 Men's value tied to partner's mood.

16:32 Relationships require 100% commitment from each individual.

19:14 Men write from their own perspective, need commitment.

23:28 Apologies repair relationship karma, preventing stagnation.

26:10 Strong relationships require emotional, intellectual connection.

31:44 Feminine connection focuses on love; masculine on tasks.

34:53 Article credited for saving and ending relationships.

38:50 Join Wisdom Feed Plus for wisdom and wellness.

39:51 Visit surfingthetsunami.com to start surfing.

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Instagram: https://bit.ly/RealWisdomFeed WisdomFeed

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Welcome to another enlightening episode of the StreetSmart Wisdom Podcast. In today's session, we have the privilege of hosting a riveting discussion with esteemed guests Sherry Turkle and Jon Kabat-Zinn. As we delve into the complexities of our increasingly digital world, Sherry and Jon explore the profound impact of digital technology on human empathy, the preservation of our essential human qualities, and the concerning rise of artificial intelligence.

Throughout this episode, our speakers tackle the tough questions about the balance between embracing technology and maintaining meaningful human interactions. They emphasize the importance of mindfulness and being present as tools to counteract the potential dehumanization brought on by digital advancements. From discussing the erosion of genuine human connections to the shift towards more controlled, friction-free relationships facilitated by technology, this conversation is a deep dive into what it truly means to be human in a digital age.

Join us as we explore these crucial themes, reflecting on the need to reclaim conversation, foster real empathy, and appreciate the marvels of life in an increasingly automated world. Don't miss out on this compelling exploration of humanity's future, right here on the StreetSmart Wisdom Podcast.

TIMESTAMP

00:00 Conversation with Sherry Turkle and Jon Kabat-Zinn.

06:05 Humanity's radical evolutionary moment integrates digital reality.

14:52 Value of conversations often underestimated in interactions.

20:47 Challenging the impact of technology on humanity.

26:30 Safe spaces needed for meaningful conversations.

33:19 Embracing silence, confronting addictive thoughts, finding completeness.

35:30 Digital vs human companionship: a key question.

42:15 AI threatens human connection, compassion, and self-worth.

48:35 AI finding optimal answers contradicts human authenticity.

52:57 Computer scientist creates ELISA program, sparks dialogue.

57:38 Wisdom, life, relationships, authenticity, Buddhism, self-discovery.

01:05:21 Mindfulness-based cognitive therapy combines analytical problem-solving.

01:08:59 Find completeness in present moment through mindfulness.

01:13:00 Analog technology connects human life cycle experiences.

01:18:57 Pondering humanity's future in the age of AI.

01:24:33 Agreement on exploring meditation and human existence.

01:34:48 Meditating is a radical act of love.

01:38:15 Sit with erect posture, focus on breathing.

01:41:56 Embrace wakefulness, wisdom, and intrinsic beauty fully.

01:47:07 Become part of inner movement for peace.

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oin us on a transformative journey with the revered spiritual leader Kamlesh D. Patel, affectionately known as Daaji, in this enlightening episode of the StreetSmart Wisdom Podcast. Host Steve Stein dives deep into the essence of Heartfulness meditation, spiritual evolution, and the mystique of chakras alongside Daaji's vast experience and insights. As we unravel Daaji's thought-provoking book "Spiritual Anatomy, Meditation Chakras, and the Journey to the Center," here are the top five takeaways from this soul-stirring conversation:

1. Chakras and Emotions: Daaji elucidates the intriguing connection between colors, emotions, and chakras. Discover how each emotion influences specific chakras and how this knowledge can serve as a spiritual roadmap, guiding our meditation practices and introspective journeys.

2. Spiritual Growth as Life's Purpose: Reflect on the profound idea that our purpose in life is to evolve into better beings. Engage in a centering meditation led by Daaji, aiming for neutrality and humility to experience the presence of the divine within us.

3. The Heartfulness Movement: Learn about the transformative Heartfulness meditation practice, which centers on the heart and seeks to enhance our positive attributes while dissolving negative tendencies. Daaji extends an invitation to collectively meditate, promising a unifying and serene experience.

4. The Mind's Role in Meditation: Delve into the art of training the mind to focus during meditation and the phenomenon of grace transmission and transformation. Daaji shares how this process can lead to divinity and an accelerated personal evolution.

5. The Heart as Our Guide: Embrace the wisdom of the Heartfulness tradition that the heart, not the mind, should lead our life decisions. Recognize the voice of the heart as the most reliable compass we have for making choices that we won't regret later.

Immerse yourself in this engaging dialogue as Daaji and Steve explore spirituality with both a practical lens and a poetic touch. Celebrate the release of Daaji's book in India, and bask in the wealth of knowledge that promises a deeper understanding of our innermost workings. Ending on notes of gratitude and collective aspiration, this episode is a treasure trove for seekers and sages alike, aiming to bring a slice of tranquility into our bustling lives. Tune in, feel centered, and transform with the SweetSmart Wisdom Podcast.

Welcome back to another insightful episode of the StreetSmart Wisdom Podcast, I'm your host, Steve Stein. Today's episode features a special guest, Catherine Hallissey, a psychologist from Ireland specializing in turning clinical research into practical parenting wisdom. In a world that often stresses us with negativity and challenges, Catherine shares with us the concept of 'glimmers,' our little moments of happiness and gratitude that can help steer us away from our inbuilt negativity bias and towards improved well-being.

During these trying times, especially accentuated by the COVID-19 pandemic, parents and children alike struggle with increased anxiety and the loss of social connections. Catherine discusses how we can combat this by integrating simple strategies into our daily lives that can increase overall happiness by a staggering 25% in just eight weeks. She also delves into the significance of gratitude in parenting, the neuroscience of shifting from trigger bias to glimmer bias, and how to soak in those good moments amidst the difficulties.

Catherine passionately advocates for setting appropriate boundaries, co-regulating emotions, and always defaulting to connection rather than punishment. She urges us to look into our past to understand our parenting style, encourages us not to aim for perfection but persistence, and shares personal experiences that highlight the power of approaching children with love and compassion, even in moments of misbehavior.

Get ready to dive into some heartfelt strategies, neuroscience-backed insights, and universal truths about human connections that can simplify and enhance our interactions with our children and with each other. All of that and much more, right here on the StreetSmart Wisdom Podcast. So, take a deep breath, find your calm, and join us as we learn how to ride the waves of modern parenting with grace and optimism. Let's get started.

TIMESTAMP

00:00 Irish mom and psychologist helps parents thrive.

04:54 Effective parenting strategies streamlined for busy lives.

07:33 Rebuilding social connections, stress relief through relationships.

13:54 Aging friends face health challenges, meds have side effects, science supports meditation and gratitude.

16:13 Enjoying sunshine with family in the northeast.

19:09 Negativity bias ingrained since beginning of time.

21:44 Default to connection in parenting for guidance.

26:15 Filter questions for ethical parenting strategies evaluation.

30:26 Regulating behavior and emotions is essential.

33:41 Parenting advice: love, support, and simplify.

38:48 Connecting with people worldwide, understanding universality. Deeper parenting, echoes of the past influence.

40:14 Parenting advice: Embrace imperfection, seek support.

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