Unlatched Mind

Vinny Vallarine
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  • SOCIETY & CULTURE
Unlatched Mind Podcast

The Unlatched Mind podcast is a long form discussion on topics including neuroscience, morality, behavioral science, religion, artificial intelligence, psychology and philosophy. Host Vinny Vallarine introduces listeners to guests and experts on these, and other topics of interest.

  1. Ep 70: Richard Dancsi | Strategies and Tactics for Building a Successful Business

    15 SEPT

    Ep 70: Richard Dancsi | Strategies and Tactics for Building a Successful Business

    The conversation explores the themes of entrepreneurship, psychology, and the importance of seeking counsel and support.  Vinny and Richard discuss their backgrounds in computer science and math, and how they became interested in psychology. They also talk about the challenges of being an entrepreneur and the tendency to isolate oneself. The importance of having mentors and a support system is emphasized, as well as the need to break patterns and seek different perspectives. In this conversation, Richard shares his insights and advice for starting a startup. He emphasizes the importance of seeking advice and mentorship, as well as considering different options for starting a company. Richard also highlights the value of starting with something you are passionate about and finding a market need for it. He encourages taking action and starting small, rather than waiting for the perfect moment. Richard also discusses the challenges of decision-making and the importance of balancing emotions and logic. Lastly, he touches on the topic of climate change and the need for objective analysis of data. Key takeaways from this episode: Entrepreneurship and psychology are interconnected fields that can greatly impact one's success.  Isolation is a common tendency among entrepreneurs, but seeking counsel and support is crucial for personal and professional growth. Having mentors and a support system can provide valuable insights and help break patterns of thinking. Being vulnerable and open to different perspectives can lead to better decision-making and overall well-being. Seek advice and mentorship when starting a startup Consider different options for starting a company, such as seeking investment or bootstrapping Start with something you are passionate about and find a market need for it Take action and start small, rather than waiting for the perfect moment Balance emotions and logic in decision-making Objective analysis of data is important, especially in topics like climate change Checkout Richard's blog at https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/dear-life-please-improve

    1h 10m
  2. Ep 69: Andrea Rosenhaft | From Suicidal to Hopeful, a Personal Story

    5 JUL

    Ep 69: Andrea Rosenhaft | From Suicidal to Hopeful, a Personal Story

    After four suicide attempts, Andrea Rosenhaft shares her journey of battling anorexia, depression, and borderline personality disorder.  She emphasizes the importance of reaching out for help and highlights the availability of support through hotlines and therapy. Andrea credits dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) and transference-focused psychotherapy (TFP) for her recovery. She discusses the impact of her parents' relationship and her father's alcoholism on her mental health. Andrea also shares her experiences as a psychotherapist and writer, offering advice to those struggling with mental health issues. Key takeaways from this episode: Reaching out for help is crucial when feeling hopeless and alone. Recovery is possible with the right therapy and support. The relationship between parents can have a significant impact on a child's mental health. Finding the right therapist may require perseverance. Sharing one's story can inspire and provide hope to others. You can find Andrea at andrearosenhaft.com.

    34 min
  3. Ep 68: Stuart Knechtle | Faith, Skeptics, and Truth Seekers on College Campuses

    12 APR

    Ep 68: Stuart Knechtle | Faith, Skeptics, and Truth Seekers on College Campuses

    In this conversation, Vinny Vallarine interviews Stuart Knechtle, an associate Pastor, and Christian Apologist. They discuss the origins of Stuart's ministry and the recent success of their Christian ‘Give Me an Answer’ movement where they engage with skeptics and truth-seekers on college campuses. They also explore the challenges of questioning faith and skepticism, as well as the pushback they sometimes receive on college campuses. The conversation highlights the shift in audience and the themes of questions they encounter, with a particular focus on mental health and its connection to faith. They also discuss the complexities of mental health days and the need for a balanced approach to addressing mental health issues. The conversation covers various topics including mental health and gender identity, political and social issues, challenging questions, the Big Bang and Biblical worldview, science and faith, irreducible complexity, the existence of God and the pursuit of truth, the problem of evil and hell, and aliens and the Biblical worldview. The conversation explores intellectual questions and distractions, with a focus on the core belief in the Resurrection of Jesus Christ. It delves into Jordan Peterson's beliefs and his ambiguity regarding Christianity.

    1h 16m
  4. Ep 67: Mike Brooks | AI and the Race to the Bottom

    2 MAR

    Ep 67: Mike Brooks | AI and the Race to the Bottom

    Is Artificial Intelligence (AI) and big tech driving society towards a race to the bottom?  Mike Brooks, Ph.D., a licensed psychologist and a licensed specialist in school psychology in Austin, Texas, joins Unlatched Mind to discuss.   The conversation includes the rapid pace of technological evolution, particularly focusing on AI's impact on society and individual well-being. They delve into issues like the overwhelming amount of digital content, the concept of 'want saturation', and the ethical considerations surrounding AI development and deployment. They express concerns about AI's optimization for profit over societal benefit and the potential for technology to exacerbate social divides and misinformation. The dialogue also touches on human adaptation to technological changes and the balance between technological advancement and human values. They discuss how digital saturation affects human psychology and the ethical dilemmas posed by AI. They highlight concerns over AI's profit-driven motives and its potential to deepen societal divisions. Additionally, they contemplate the necessity for a balance between technological progress and maintaining core human values, emphasizing the importance of human connection in an increasingly digital world.    Check out Mike at https://www.drmikebrooks.com.

    1h 7m
  5. Ep 66: JW Ross | Kava, Kratom, and Feel Free

    13 JAN

    Ep 66: JW Ross | Kava, Kratom, and Feel Free

    In this conversation, Vinny Vallarine and JW Ross discuss the significance of freedom, government control and lobbying, and the challenges of working with the government. They also delve into JW's journey of creating Feel Free, a product designed to address social anxiety. The conversation explores the differences between kratom and kava, the launch of Feel Free, and the impact of society on stress and anxiety levels. The conversation explores the evolution of society and the contrast between different lifestyles. It delves into the origins and controversy surrounding kratom, highlighting the need for proper regulation and education. The complexity of chemistry and the importance of understanding the different forms of kratom are discussed.  The conversation also touches on the motives behind the opposition to kratom and the relative safety of its use. The role of tools and substances in altering mood and the potential for future product development are explored. The influence of childhood experiences and the lack of emotional connection are also examined, along with the role of alcohol in coping. The conversation explores the dangers of excessive consumption and the potential consequences of crossing the line. It also delves into the distinction between social drinking and substance abuse, highlighting the different motivations behind each. Additionally, the conversation touches on the desire to escape reality through substance use. Finally, there is a brief discussion about an upcoming new soda product release. Check out Feel Free at https://botanictonics.com.  New customers can use code “UM40” for $40 off your order.

    1h 14m
  6. Ep 65: Guy Odishaw | Light Therapy, Cellular Intelligence, and the Future of Healthcare

    18/11/2023

    Ep 65: Guy Odishaw | Light Therapy, Cellular Intelligence, and the Future of Healthcare

    I had the privilege of delving into the fascinating realm of biophysics and cellular intelligence with Guy Odishaw, the founder of CerebralFit. The conversation unfolded around the revolutionary field of biologic medicine, where the integration of light therapy, or electroceuticals, takes center stage in leveraging the innate intelligence of our cells for optimal health. Our dialogue began by exploring the profound connection between humans and the natural world, drawing parallels between how plants harness light energy for sustenance and oxygen production and how our bodies absorb sunlight to produce vital substances like vitamin D. Guy eloquently explained the intricate dance between grounding, or earthing, and sunlight exposure, emphasizing the transformative process of becoming a living battery through these elemental practices. The core of our discussion revolved around the medicinal potential of light, particularly in the red and near-infrared spectrums. Guy elucidated the science behind this, shedding light on the approximately 1,400 chemical products produced in the body through sunlight exposure. Beyond vitamin D, photons serve as essential elements for cellular communication and function, making light therapy a powerful tool to influence cellular physiology predictably and repeatably. The conversation transitioned into a deeper exploration of the body's response to light therapy. Guy eloquently likened our bodies to a person managing their income and expenses, drawing parallels between the resources we allocate and the deferred maintenance within our biological systems. By providing the body with the "resources" of light energy, cellular vitality is reinvigorated, leading to healing and regeneration. What sets this approach apart is its positivistic focus on vitalizing the system rather than merely combating specific pathogenic forces. Guy used a compelling analogy, likening the body's response to increased resources to an individual with newfound wealth attending to neglected repairs in their home. This fresh perspective challenges the traditional allopathic approach, emphasizing enhancement and vitality over mere negation of diseases. As the conversation unfolded, we delved into the intelligence inherent in cellular structures and tissues. Drawing inspiration from Michael Levin's TAME theory, which posits that mind extends beyond humans and even lower animals, Guy explored the concept of agency and communion at the cellular level. The discussion unfolded into a rich tapestry where cells possess inherent intelligence, and the challenge lies in providing them with the resources to optimize their function. A key distinction emerged as Guy contrasted biologic medicine with pharmaceutical approaches. Instead of micromanaging and forcing changes at the molecular level, biologic medicine opts for a holistic strategy, providing resources to enhance cellular intelligence and allowing the body's innate wisdom to guide healing and regeneration. The podcast episode provided a glimpse into the exciting possibilities of biologic medicine, bridging ancient wisdom with cutting-edge science. Guy's insights challenged conventional paradigms and opened doors to a new era of healthcare that respects and collaborates with the inherent intelligence of living systems. The discussion hinted at a promising future where the understanding of cellular intelligence becomes a fundamental principle in scientific exploration and medical practice. To explore more on this transformative journey into biologic medicine and cellular intelligence, visit Guy Odishaw's website at cerebralfit.com and dive into the extensive research, articles, and resources he generously shares. You can also schedule a free 15-minute consultation to discover how biologic medicine may unlock new dimensions of health and vitality for you.

    1h 9m
  7. Ep 64: Frank McAndrew, Ph.D. | Personal Likeability, Evolutionary Psychology, and Culture

    20/10/2023

    Ep 64: Frank McAndrew, Ph.D. | Personal Likeability, Evolutionary Psychology, and Culture

    In this wide-ranging discussion, we dove deep into the fascinating world of evolutionary psychology with Dr. Frank McAndrew, Ph.D., a renowned professor of psychology at Knox College. Our conversation started with an exploration of “Dunbar’s Number”, which delves into the limits of human social connections. We pondered the significance of this limit in our increasingly connected yet isolating world. From there, the discussion evolved to touch upon language, dialects, and accents. Dr. McAndrew and I discussed how even in countries with a common language, various dialects and accents develop, highlighting our natural inclination to create smaller groups within the larger whole. We considered how these divisions could lead to both positive and negative outcomes and examined the complexities of human nature. Our conversation then shifted towards the roles of leaders and politicians in our society. We contemplated the challenges they face in balancing their personal beliefs and agendas with the expectations of the public. Dr. McAndrew expressed the importance of understanding the evolutionary psychology behind human behavior and how it can influence our interactions and conflicts. As we explored the topic of retirement, Dr. McAndrew provided valuable insights from his own perspective. He shared that retirement doesn't have to be an abrupt stop to one's professional life but rather a change in the ratio of activities we choose to pursue. He discussed how having a flexible plan for retirement can be a healthy approach and reflected on his own path towards retirement. Throughout our conversation, we touched on various subjects, from the traits of effective leaders to the ways in which human nature and evolution shape our interactions. We also examined the impacts of biases and prejudices, and how understanding these behaviors can lead to more effective ways of addressing and mitigating them. Ultimately, this thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Frank McAndrew offered insights into the complex world of human psychology and the importance of understanding our evolutionary roots to foster a more compassionate and harmonious society.  We found it to be an engaging and enlightening exploration of the human experience! Checkout Frank at https://www.frankmcandrew.com

    57 min
  8. Ep 63: Noam Shpancer, Ph.D. | Culture, Social Media, Personal Responsibility, and Mental Health

    10/09/2023

    Ep 63: Noam Shpancer, Ph.D. | Culture, Social Media, Personal Responsibility, and Mental Health

    Dr. Noam Shpancer joins Unlatched Mind to delve into the complex interplay of technology, mental health, and personal responsibility. Dr. Shpancer, a clinical psychologist and professor, provides valuable insights into the challenges posed by the modern digital landscape, particularly concerning the mental well-being of young people. Our conversation began with an exploration of how excessive choices, a byproduct of advanced civilization, can paradoxically lead to dissatisfaction and stress. Dr. Shpancer introduced the concept that having too many options can often result in decision regret, as we are overwhelmed by the sheer volume of choices we face in various aspects of life. One significant contributor to this phenomenon is the proliferation of technology, particularly smartphones and social media. Dr. Shpancer pointed out that the introduction of cell phones coincided with rising levels of anxiety and depression, suggesting a potential link between technology use and declining mental health. He explained that heavy users of social media are more susceptible to negative mental health effects, as the platforms are designed to maximize user engagement by presenting extreme and agreeable content. Our conversation then shifted to the broader societal context, emphasizing that the responsibility for addressing these issues should not rest solely on individuals or parents. Dr. Shpancer highlighted the need for both top-down and bottom-up efforts to create a healthier technological environment. While individuals should be empowered and educated about responsible technology use, there must also be societal regulations and rules governing technology usage in specific contexts. Just as smoking was made uncool through social pressure, similar tactics can be employed to reduce excessive phone and screen time. Furthermore, Dr. Shpancer likened the challenge of moderating technology use to managing other aspects of life, such as food consumption. Both technology and food are essential for survival, but excessive use can be detrimental. He advocated for finding the right balance and purpose in technology use, just as one would with food. Technology can be a valuable tool for business, education, and connection when used mindfully. Throughout our conversation, the concept of "dial issues" was introduced. Dr. Shpancer explained that many challenges in life are not binary "switch issues" but rather dial issues. This means that moderation and finding the right level of use are essential, similar to adjusting a dial to control light or volume. We should aim to dial down our technology use to a functional level while considering the purpose and type of our usage. In summary, Dr. Noam Shpancer's insights shed light on the challenges posed by technology in the modern world, particularly its impact on mental health. Our conversation underscores the importance of striking a balance in technology use, combining individual responsibility with societal regulations to create a healthier technological environment. Ultimately, technology can be a valuable tool when used mindfully and purposefully, contributing positively to various aspects of our lives. Checkout Noam's work at https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/contributors/noam-shpancer-phd and https://www.otterbein.edu/faculty/noam-shpancer

    1h 6m
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About

The Unlatched Mind podcast is a long form discussion on topics including neuroscience, morality, behavioral science, religion, artificial intelligence, psychology and philosophy. Host Vinny Vallarine introduces listeners to guests and experts on these, and other topics of interest.

Information

  • Creator
    Vinny Vallarine
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2024
  • Episodes
    70
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Show Website
    Unlatched Mind

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