Today, we're diving deep into an intriguing topic that's been at the heart of our podcast discussions lately. We're shifting gears in our third season, turning the spotlight onto an aspect of personal and societal change that's often overlooked: the inward journey towards becoming more inclusive and equitable.

The Ecological Model of Self

We're all on a journey. It's a journey through time, across generations, and within ourselves. This holistic perspective, which we refer to as the ecological model of self, encourages us to think about our evolution—not just in terms of biological changes over millennia, but also in the context of our personal growth.

Understanding oneself requires more than introspection—it demands recognizing our place within larger communities, cultures, and ecosystems. We believe that a holistic approach, which accounts for our relationships and societal roles, is crucial for genuine personal growth.

The Neuroscience of Transformative Learning

Our journey inward isn't just philosophical or emotional—it's also neurological. Did you know that transformative learning can actually change your brain? It's true! New synaptic pathways can be formed, shifting perspectives and leading to profound personal growth. By tying adult learning theory to neuroscience, we can see that our capacity to change and grow is literally hardwired into us.

Biology and Environment: A Dance of Influence

But let's go a step further. It's not just our brains at play here. We need to consider the complexity of the biology within us—the myriad of microorganisms that share our bodies and influence our health and well-being. Our ancestors, our environment, and even our epigenetic makeup (that's the way our genes express themselves) all play a role in shaping our behaviours. It's fascinating to realize that our environment's influence isn't limited to our own lives—it can resonate through generations. This understanding adds depth to our discussions on personal transformation, emphasizing the long-lasting impacts of our actions and experiences.

The Body Component of the Internal Journey

And let's not forget the body's role in this inward journey. Our physical state is intrinsically linked with our mental state. It's a complex, two-way street. When we embark on this journey, we're not just transforming our minds; we're also going to see a physical effect in our bodies, specifically in our brain’s neural networks. And this, in turn, changes how we perceive and interact with the world.

The Takeaway

We hope you'll join us on this inward journey. It's a path toward greater inclusivity, equity, and personal transformation. Along the way, we'll delve into stories, science, and self-exploration, all with the aim of fostering greater understanding and empathy.

By understanding the complexities of our internal journey, we can better navigate the challenges of our external world. So, let's venture together into this exploration of self, society, and the profound transformations that can occur when we dare to look within.

Until next time, stay curious.

Resources to Use

• Prosocial (David Sloan Wilson) - Using science to foster cooperation and make the world better.
• Incognito: The Secret Lives of the Brain (David Eagleman) - How the unconscious mind shapes our behavior and decisions.
• Internal Family Systems (IFS Therapy) - Healing by connecting with different parts of oneself.
• Nonviolent Communication (Marshall Rosenberg) - Compassionate relating through conscious communication.
• Brene Brown on Vulnerability - Embracing vulnerability develops courage, compassion and connection.