The Thief in the Empty Room

The Power of Kindness: An NBA Story of Compassion and Connection


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In this episode, Craig welcomes Erwin Valencia, the former head of the New York Knicks medical and performance staff and founder of the Grasshopper Project, who offers a unique perspective on mindfulness, gratitude, and navigating life's transitions with the wisdom of a "renaissance man".  

Here’s a glimpse into the profound insights you can expect:

  • The Thief in the Empty Room: Erwin shares his interpretation of the Zen koan that gives the podcast its name, relating it to the importance of open-mindedness and shedding expectations to truly learn from our experiences.  

    • From the NBA to Self-Discovery: Hear Erwin's story of integrating mindfulness practices with elite athletes, and the pivotal moment that led him to step away from his prominent position to pursue a path of deeper meaning and self-discovery.  
    • The Art of Transition: Explore Erwin's views on navigating life's transitions, including his new podcast, "Welcome to the Now," which will focus on the challenges and triumphs of individuals redefining themselves after achieving early success.
  • ...more
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    The Thief in the Empty RoomBy Craig French