The Nature of Nurture

Dr. Leslie Carr
  • 4.9 (28)
  • Mental Health
  • Monthly Series

The Nature of Nurture helps us make sense of ourselves as human beings living during strange and stressful times. By using current phenomena as context (like covid, cults, and political polarization), this podcast delves deep into the nature vs. nurture debate by exploring how our minds and mental health are shaped by lived experience.

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  1. Julia and Leslie Are Dying with Julia de’Caneva

    Episode 1

    Julia and Leslie Are Dying with Julia de’Caneva

    In this Season Five opener of The Nature of Nurture, Dr. Leslie Carr sits down with her friend and collaborator Julia de’Caneva for a candid, expansive conversation about mortality, meaning, and what it actually takes to live fully. Julia is a cancer survivor, holistic health coach, writer, and death care educator whose work centers on integrating wellness with an honest relationship to death. Together, Leslie and Julia explore why modern culture avoids conversations about dying, how mortality awareness can deepen our appreciation for life, and how nervous system regulation helps us stay present with fear, grief, and uncertainty. This episode weaves together themes of healing, burnout, capitalism, nature, spirituality, embodiment, and curiosity, offering listeners an invitation to stop avoiding the inevitable and instead use it as a guide for living more intentionally.   About the Guest Julia de’Caneva is a cancer survivor, holistic health coach, writer, and death care educator. She is the creator of If It’s the Last Thing I Do and the co-founder of Elemental, a wellness company devoted to reshaping the human relationship with nature, embodiment, and mortality. Julia and Leslie also co-lead in-person workshops focused on nervous system regulation and embodiment.   Resources & Links If It’s the Last Thing I Do — Julia de’Caneva https://www.ifitsthelastthingido.com/ Elemental https://www.experienceelemental.com/ The Nature of Nurture https://lesliecarr.com/podcast/ Patreon Membership https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheNatureofNurture Watch on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@TheNatureofNurture     Credits Hosted by Dr. Leslie Carr Guest: Julia de’Caneva Produced by Dr. Leslie Carr & Bri Coorey Recorded at SLAP Studios LA

    57 min
  2. Being Human in the Age of Machines with Dr. Radhika Dirks

    Episode 2

    Being Human in the Age of Machines with Dr. Radhika Dirks

    Dr. Leslie Carr sits down with her friend Dr. Radhika Dirks, an AI technologist and global advisor, for a wide-ranging conversation about how artificial intelligence is reshaping mental health, attention, intimacy, parenting, work, and the planet. Dr. Dirks breaks down why AI can feel so compelling, how “AI psychosis” and attachment can emerge for vulnerable users, and what it means to be intentional with tools designed to keep us engaged. Together, Leslie and Radhika explore the ethical stakes of building addictive systems, the difference between human connection and AI companionship, and practical ways to protect your nervous system and your family in a world where AI is already everywhere.   About the Guest Dr. Radhika Dirks is a global AI advisor and founder/CEO known for building ambitious AI companies and advising organizations on the future of intelligence (radhikadirks.com).   Resources & Links   Dr. Radhika Dirks website https://www.radhikadirks.com   Dr. Radhika Dirks’ book https://www.radhikadirks.com/book   The Nature of Nurture TheNatureofNurture.com   Patreon Membership https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheNatureofNurture   Watch on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@TheNatureofNurture   This podcast is available in all podcast apps but here’s the Apple link:       Credits Hosted by Dr. Leslie Carr Guest: Dr. Radhika Dirks Produced by Dr. Leslie Carr and Bri Coorey Recorded at SLAP Studios LA

    1h 3m
  3. Could Listening Have Prevented the Fire? With Orly Israel

    Episode 3

    Could Listening Have Prevented the Fire? With Orly Israel

    Host Leslie is joined by Orly Israel, founder of The Listening Table, which offers judgment-free spaces where people can sit down and be heard without interruption, advice, or fixing. Orly shares how his listening practice began through a prison communication workshop, how “just listening” can build trust faster than we think, and what he’s learned from years of hearing strangers’ real stories in public. The conversation also turns deeply personal as Orly reflects on losing his home in the Palisades Fire, and the long tail of trauma that followed: displacement, instability, guilt, and the challenge of rebuilding a grounded life while trying to stay mission-driven. Together, Leslie and Orly explore the loneliness epidemic, the role of connection in preventing crisis, why men struggle to form emotionally supportive friendships—as well as what it looks like to show up for people in the aftermath of disaster.   Guest Orly Israel is the founder of The Listening Table, an initiative offering neutral, judgment-free spaces where people can be heard without interruption or advice. Since 2020, the project has been viewed online by millions and has inspired dozens of listening tables worldwide.       Resources & Links   The Listening Table OrlyIsrael.com   The Nature of Nurture TheNatureofNurture.com   Patreon Membership https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheNatureofNurture   Watch on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@TheNatureofNurture   Credits Hosted by Dr. Leslie Carr Guest: Orly Israel Produced by Dr. Leslie Carr and Bri Coorey Recorded at SLAP Studios LA

    57 min
  4. It's Not Too Late. A Conversation About Climate Change with Heather White

    Episode 4

    It's Not Too Late. A Conversation About Climate Change with Heather White

    Host Leslie welcomes environmental lawyer, author, and nonprofit founder Heather White back to The Nature of Nurture for a powerful, wide-ranging conversation about climate, mental health, and hope. Heather is the founder of OneGreenThing.org and author of four books including Eco Anxiety: Saving Our Sanity, Our Kids, and Our Future. Together, Leslie and Heather take an unflinching look at the urgent state of the climate crisis—the political setbacks, the psychological toll on younger generations, and the intersection between environmental collapse and mental health. But while the discussion begins in realism, it ends in empowerment. Heather shares why she still believes it's not too late to change direction—and how everyday actions, collective consciousness, and hope itself are revolutionary tools in shaping a livable future. She introduces the idea of doing “one green thing” each day, explains why both individual and systemic change are essential, and offers insight into her “Service Superpower Assessment” that helps people connect their unique strengths to meaningful action. Heather and Leslie also discuss creative long-term thinking inspired by Heather’s TED Talk, Eco Anxiety as a Message from Our Future Selves—a call to imagine the kind of world we could build by 2050 if we act with courage, compassion, and vision today. This conversation covers: How climate anxiety impacts young people Why culture and politics must shift together Simple, actionable ways to live with purpose in the face of crisis The role of imagination in transforming fear into hope Guest Heather White is an environmental lawyer, advocate, and founder of OneGreenThing.org, a nonprofit addressing climate and mental health through joyful daily action. She has served in leadership roles on Capitol Hill, worked on Al Gore’s presidential campaign, and is the author of Eco Anxiety: Saving Our Sanity, Our Kids, and Our Future and 60 Days to a Greener Life. Her TED Talk, Eco Anxiety as a Message from Our Future Selves, invites audiences to turn fear into creativity and stewardship. Resources & Links The Nature of Nurture TheNatureofNurture.com One Green Thing: OneGreenThing.org Patreon Membership https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheNatureofNurture Watch on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@TheNatureofNurture This podcast is available in all podcast apps but here’s the Apple link: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nature-of-nurture/id1561379347 Credits Hosted by Dr. Leslie Carr Guest: Heather White Produced by Dr. Leslie Carr, Bri Coorey, and Asher Freidberg Recorded at SLAP Studios LA

    59 min
  5. Psychedelics, Addiction, and the Meaning of Life with Yeshaia Blakeney

    Episode 5

    Psychedelics, Addiction, and the Meaning of Life with Yeshaia Blakeney

    In this episode of The Nature of Nurture, Leslie sits down with Yeshaia Blakeney (aka Shai), co-founder and co-CEO of Recovery Integrity and Antedote Lab—dual diagnosis treatment programs in Los Angeles. With more than twenty years of experience in addiction and mental health treatment, Shai brings both clinical and personal insight into recovery, spirituality, and the limits of conventional treatment models. Together, Leslie and Shai explore the therapeutic use of psychedelics in addiction treatment, the role of empathy and self-compassion in recovery, and forward-facing models focused on growth and integration. The conversation moves beyond clinical frameworks into deeper questions about consciousness, spirituality, and the nature of reality itself, touching on how mystical or transformative experiences can reshape identity, loosen rigid patterns, and open new pathways for healing. Through discussions of guilt, shame, connection, and the importance of community, the episode examines what it means for someone to be “stuck” in recovery and how connection, flexibility, and meaning-making may support lasting change. Leslie and Shai also reflect on cultural attitudes toward suffering, effort, and healing, and why fear and risk assessment often shape how new therapeutic approaches are received. The conversation concludes with a personal story from Shai about what he calls an “empirical miracle,” a deeply meaningful experience that shaped his relationship to spirituality, recovery, and the unknown — inviting listeners to consider how moments of coincidence, meaning, and connection can transform the way we understand our lives.   Guest Yeshaia Blakeney is the co-founder and co-CEO of Recovery Integrity and Antedote Lab, addiction and dual diagnosis treatment programs in Los Angeles. He is an addiction specialist with more than two decades of experience working in substance abuse and mental health treatment.   Resources & Links   Recovery Integrity Website https://www.recoverintegrity.com/   Antidote Lab Website https://antedotelab.com/   The Nature of Nurture TheNatureofNurture.com   Patreon Membership https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheNatureofNurture   Watch on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@TheNatureofNurture   This podcast is available in all podcast apps but here’s the Apple link: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nature-of-nurture/id1561379347       Credits Hosted by Dr. Leslie Carr Guest: Yeshaia Blakeney Produced by Dr. Leslie Carr and Bri Coorey Recorded at SLAP Studios LA   Disclaimer This episode includes discussion of psychedelics and mental health treatment. Psychedelics are illegal in many jurisdictions and are not appropriate for everyone. This content is for education and conversation only and is not medical advice.

    1h 4m

  6. Episode 6

    This Is Not the End: How to Survive a Revolution

    In this special solo episode of The Nature of Nurture, Dr. Leslie Carr steps away from her usual interview format to share a timely and deeply personal reflection on the current global moment. Leslie begins by acknowledging the widespread fear and uncertainty many people are experiencing, describing the present as a potentially revolutionary period—one that feels unstable and unpredictable from within. While she recognizes the seriousness of the moment, she also offers a broader historical perspective, reminding listeners that even the darkest periods in human history have often given way to profound transformation and renewal. She explores the idea that society may be in the midst of a major shift, where existing systems are being challenged or dismantled. Rather than succumbing to fear, Leslie encourages listeners to consider the possibility of co-creating a new world—one that prioritizes humanity, sustainability, and collective well-being over exploitation and extraction. A central theme of the episode is the concept of an “energetic war”—a struggle not just for power or resources, but for human consciousness itself. Leslie discusses how oppressive forces can attempt to erode autonomy, joy, and a sense of self, emphasizing that protecting these aspects of our humanity is essential. She frames joy, presence, and connection not as distractions, but as forms of resistance. Alongside calls for civic engagement—such as protesting, voting, and advocating for change—Leslie underscores the importance of self-care and community care. She encourages listeners to disconnect from the constant noise of the digital world and reconnect with real-life experiences: spending time with loved ones, enjoying nature, sharing meals, and cultivating moments of genuine presence and laughter. Ultimately, this episode is both a grounding reminder and a hopeful call to action. Leslie urges listeners to remain solution-focused, to come together in meaningful ways, and to trust in the collective power of people to shape a better future. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed by current events or searching for a more grounded, intentional way to navigate uncertain times, this episode offers reassurance, perspective, and a renewed sense of agency. Host Dr. Leslie Carr is a psychologist, educator, and host of The Nature of Nurture. Her work explores the intersections of psychology, culture, trauma, healing, and human development. Resources & Links The Nature of NurtureTheNatureofNurture.com Patreon Membershiphttps://www.patreon.com/cw/TheNatureofNurture Watch on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/@TheNatureofNurture Listen on Apple Podcastshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nature-of-nurture/id1561379347 Credits Hosted by Dr. Leslie Carr Written and produced by Dr. Leslie Carr Engineered and edited by Asher Freidberg Recorded at SLAP Studios LA Disclaimer This episode is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for psychotherapy, mental health treatment, or professional medical advice. If you have questions about your own mental health, please consult a licensed professional.

    4 min

  7. Episode 7

    I Wasn’t Raised to Use My Voice: Surviving Narcissistic Abuse and Why I’m Finally Telling My Story

    In this deeply personal solo episode of The Nature of Nurture, Leslie opens up about her own life story for the first time in the podcast’s five-season history. Reflecting on her work as a clinical psychologist and host of the show, Leslie explains why she felt compelled to “unmask” and share the experiences that shaped both her healing journey and the perspective behind the podcast itself. Leslie begins by introducing herself beyond the professional bio—sharing her background, her career in psychology, and the core mission of The Nature of Nurture: understanding the human condition through the lens of context. From trauma and family systems to culture, technology, and lived experience, she explores how the environments we grow up in shape who we become. The heart of the episode centers on Leslie’s experience surviving childhood emotional and psychological abuse within a toxic family system. Without focusing on graphic details, she speaks candidly about growing up in an environment where self-expression and self-advocacy were discouraged, and how reclaiming her voice became a central part of her healing process. Throughout the conversation, Leslie reflects on the intergenerational transmission of trauma and the ways unresolved wounds can echo through families over time. Drawing from both her personal experience and years of clinical practice, she discusses the emotional complexity of healing—particularly the balance between accountability, compassion, anger, and forgiveness. Leslie also shares how modalities beyond traditional psychotherapy—including breathwork, nervous system regulation, and neuro-linguistic programming—played an important role in helping her process and integrate childhood trauma. She explains that many previous episodes of the podcast were, in some ways, reflections of her own healing journey. A major theme of the episode is the idea that survival alone is not the endpoint of recovery. Leslie speaks about what it means not only to heal from trauma, but to transform because of it—framing her ability to speak openly today as an act of liberation against the silence she was raised within. The episode also explores Leslie’s spiritual beliefs surrounding consciousness, forgiveness, and the soul’s evolution. Discussing concepts like the Akashic Records and life lessons carried through relationships, she offers a nuanced perspective on forgiveness—emphasizing that forgiveness does not require reconnection, and that healthy healing often involves maintaining strong boundaries. Ultimately, this episode is a message of solidarity for anyone who has struggled to reclaim their voice after trauma. Leslie closes by reminding listeners that healing is possible, that their experiences are real, and that they are not alone in the process. Whether you’re navigating your own recovery journey, interested in trauma psychology, or simply looking for a more honest conversation about healing and identity, this episode offers vulnerability, insight, and hope. Host Dr. Leslie Carr is a psychologist, educator, and host of The Nature of Nurture. Her work explores the intersections of psychology, culture, trauma, healing, and human development. Resources & Links The Nature of Nurture TheNatureofNurture.com Prior Episodes Mentioned: S2 Ep 4, Interview with Michelle Masters “How Our Beliefs Shape Our Experience” (NLP/audio only): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/interview-with-michelle-masters-how-our-beliefs-shape/id1561379347?i=1000553917982 S4 Ep 8, Exploring the Akashic Records with Helen Vonderheide: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIHKpq-M0NY S4 Ep 9, The Intersection of Mental Health and the Nervous System with Rachel Hardy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r6ieycpevH0&t=28s S4 Ep 10, Exploring Breathwork's Healing Potential with Robert Bahedry: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rGRnKDpLnqU&t=1s S1 Ep 1, Beyond Biology (not explicitly mentioned but if you want to learn more about Leslie’s attitudes and beliefs about “mainstream” psychology and mental health, this episode is a great place to start): https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-biology/id1561379347?i=1000517727592 Patreon Membership https://www.patreon.com/cw/TheNatureofNurture Watch on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@TheNatureofNurture Listen on Apple Podcasts https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-nature-of-nurture/id1561379347 Credits Hosted by Dr. Leslie Carr Written and produced by Dr. Leslie Carr Engineered and edited by Asher Freidberg Recorded at SLAP Studios LA Disclaimer This episode is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for psychotherapy, mental health treatment, or professional medical advice. If you have questions about your own mental health, please consult a licensed professional.

    9 min

  8. Episode 8

    Heated Rivalry: Understanding a Phenomenon, with Goldie Jones

    In this episode of The Nature of Nurture, Dr. Leslie Carr sits down with filmmaker, writer, director, and content creator Goldie Jones to explore the unexpected cultural phenomenon of Heated Rivalry, the hit television series that has inspired an unusually devoted fan community and sparked conversations far beyond the world of entertainment. Together, Leslie and Goldie examine why the show has resonated so deeply with audiences, including the emotional, psychological, and even transformational responses many viewers report after watching it. Drawing from Leslie's background as a psychologist and Goldie's expertise in storytelling and filmmaking, they discuss concepts such as corrective emotional experiences, trauma, authenticity, neuroplasticity, and the power of narrative to shape the way we understand ourselves and others. The conversation takes a deep dive into the craft behind the series, exploring how character development, point of view, visual storytelling, symbolism, dialogue, performance, and production design contribute to the show's emotional impact. Goldie shares insights into the storytelling techniques that make the series so compelling, including the use of subtext, visual motifs, mirrors, lighting, and character psychology. Leslie and Goldie also discuss the show's portrayal of trauma, identity, family expectations, and vulnerability through its central characters. They examine how different forms of trauma—both overt and subtle—shape human behavior, relationships, and self-expression, and why so many viewers have found aspects of themselves reflected in the story. The episode concludes with a broader conversation about the state of modern storytelling, the relationship between art and commerce, and what the entertainment industry might learn from the success of a series built on sincerity, hope, emotional honesty, and meaningful human connection. Guest Goldie Jones is a Wyoming-born, Los Angeles-based writer, director, filmmaker, and content creator. After more than a decade working as a director of photography, Goldie transitioned into directing and screenwriting, earning recognition for award-winning screenplays, short films, and commercial work. Their in-depth analysis of Heated Rivalry has attracted millions of viewers online and sparked conversations about storytelling, filmmaking, character development, and media literacy. Resources & Links: Goldie Jones https://www.goldiethejones.com/ Goldie Jones on Instagram: www.instagram.com/glitchgestaltgirl The Nature of Nurture https://thenatureofnurture.com Dr. Leslie on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlesliecarr Goldie Jones on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/glitchgestaltgirl The Nature of Nurture on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thenatureofnurture Watch on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@thenatureofnurture This podcast is available on all major podcast platforms. #HeatedRivalry #LGBTQStories #MentalHealth #Filmmaking #TheNatureOfNurture Credits: Hosted by Leslie Carr Guest: Goldie Jones Produced by Leslie Carr Recorded by Chi Ogilvie at SLAP Studios LA and edited by Asher Freidberg. Disclaimer: This episode contains discussion of trauma, mental health, neurodiversity, identity, family dynamics, and emotional healing. The views expressed are for educational and informational purposes only and are not a substitute for professional mental health care, diagnosis, or treatment.

    1h 8m
  9. Season 5 Trailer

    Season 5 Trailer

    Season 5 Trailer

    Nature of Nurture is a space for real talk, big questions, and grounded hope. In a time when climate anxiety, uncertainty, and burnout are shaping how we think about the future, this show invites you to pause, tune into your intuition, and reconnect with what actually gives you agency. Each episode blends science, storytelling, and soul—exploring how personal action, community care, and small daily practices can create meaningful change without requiring perfection or overwhelm. From climate grief to purpose, from policy to personal legacy, this is about learning the rules, breaking the ones that don’t serve us, and finding sustainable ways to show up for the planet and the next generation. If you’re looking to feel informed, empowered, and surprisingly energized about the future, you’re in the right place. Come along—we’ve got paradigms to shift. Season Five starts now.

    1 min
  10. Season 5 Is Coming: Big Announcements from Leslie

    Bonus

    Season 5 Is Coming: Big Announcements from Leslie

    Season 5 is on the way! In this announcement, Leslie shares exciting updates about the upcoming launch in January, the new Patreon community with early episode access, bonus content, and monthly live calls with Julia De’Caneva. After a season of growth behind the scenes, the show is ready for its next chapter. The Nature of Nurture Patreon link

    2 min
See All Season 5 (10)

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4.9
out of 5
28 Ratings

About

The Nature of Nurture helps us make sense of ourselves as human beings living during strange and stressful times. By using current phenomena as context (like covid, cults, and political polarization), this podcast delves deep into the nature vs. nurture debate by exploring how our minds and mental health are shaped by lived experience.

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