Oneself

Stephen Maher & Adam Bartleman
  • 5.0 (7)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT

Oneself is a raw and reflective podcast about identity, purpose, and transformation. Hosted by Stephen Maher and Adam Bartleman, the show explores how we come to understand who we are—through our experiences, relationships, and the deeper work of self-discovery. In each episode, they share personal stories and honest conversations around topics like mentorship, trauma, masculinity, healing, and growth. Whether you’re navigating your own path or curious about the human experience, Oneself invites you into a space where vulnerability meets wisdom and reflection leads to action.

  1. 4D AGO

    Oneself - Episode 36 - Kid's Aren't the Problem: We Are

    Summary: In this episode, Stephen Maher and Adam Bartleman explore the dynamics of parenting, societal influences, and personal transformation. They delve into how childhood conditioning, cultural shifts, and collective consciousness shape behavior and future generations. The discussion emphasizes the importance of community, self-work, and regenerative systems like food sovereignty in fostering societal evolution. Takeaways: The evolving landscape of discipline, respect, and healthy intimidation in parentingSocietal reflections in children's behavior and broader cultural trendsThe significance of community, self-work, and regenerative systemsAwareness, spiritual awakening, and collective responsibility in societal evolutionPractical actions for individual contribution, such as gardening and nurturing reciprocityThe spiritual perspective on sovereignty, interconnectedness, and creating a new paradigmChapters: 00:00 - Introduction to parenting, society, and personal transformation00:16 - Childhood behaviors and respect: from discipline to societal reflection01:15 - Overcorrections in parenting and the balance of respect and fear02:12 - The effects of technology and educational decline on children03:11 - Observations of misbehavior and trauma in children05:04 - Generational differences in discipline and fear of authority06:25 - Society’s macro patterns reflected in children's behavior07:14 - The polarity of consciousness in youth: spiritual awakening vs rebellion08:20 - Impact of home environment and social trauma on discipline09:40 - The importance and challenges of systemic change in education11:06 - The role of discipline and respect in growth12:18 - Acknowledging the increase in unruly behavior and classroom challenges13:12 - The societal and spiritual implications of systemic breakdown14:45 - The importance of boundaries and discipline in personal development15:43 - The influence of societal burnout on parenting and discipline17:09 - The importance of self-work for societal evolution18:00 - The positive trend of more engaged dads and collective healing19:09 - The disillusionment of youth and the societal fragmentation20:45 - The journey of awakening, disillusionment, and creating new systems22:55 - The spiritual understanding of interconnectedness and collective karma28:26 - The importance of purposeful rebellion and conscious activism29:22 - Building resilient communities and off-grid systems33:41 - Reconnecting with nature through gardening and food sovereignty36:06 - The significance of planting in parks and supporting local food systems39:44 - Sharing abundance and living in reciprocity42:40 - The holistic connection to land, community, and indigenous wisdom44:19 - The importance of small, consistent actions for collective change45:04 - Connecting individual actions to planetary evolution

    46 min

  2. MAR 23

    Oneself - Episode 35 - Don't Be Afraid to Love

    Summary: In this episode of Oneself, Stephen and Adam dive into the complexities of masculinity, the importance of vulnerability, and the transformative power of love. They challenge traditional perceptions, emphasizing self-awareness and emotional balance as key to fostering healthier masculinity and society. Takeaways: The warped perception of masculinity and its roots in childhood experiencesThe balance between strength and softness in menThe influence of societal programming and the importance of observationThe role of fear, love, and vulnerability in personal growthNature’s lessons on resilience and flexibilityMoving beyond conditioning to live authenticallyThe significance of inner work and self-love in healing masculinity The connection between fear, separation, and violenceHow societal systems perpetuate fear and divisionPractical steps toward embracing love over fear Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and the relevance of masculinity and vulnerability 02:12 - The importance of embracing softness and strength simultaneously 03:37 - How societal programming influences masculine identity 04:33 - The role of observation and questioning societal norms 05:36 - The impact of suffering and positive role models in masculinity 07:30 - Lessons learned through physical challenges and service work 09:53 - The balance of toughness and gentleness in nurturing mentors 11:26 - The myth of masculinity as always rigid and unbending 13:08 - The inner resilience required to navigate fear and societal expectations 15:28 - The pendulum swing of emotional expression and the middle way 16:33 - The importance of love, self-love, and self-awareness 18:51 - Healing through inner work and teaching children healthy self-talk 19:19 - The root of violence: fear and the illusion of separation 21:04 - Expanding capacity for love as a solution to societal issues 22:21 - Fear as the opposite of love and its manifestations in society 23:36 - The comparison of martial arts training and inner peace 25:54 - The destructive cycle of fear, violence, and power dynamics 27:15 - Moving beyond competition and ego-driven violence 29:08 - Recognizing that true strength is rooted in vulnerability and authenticity 30:01 - The dangerous rise of fear-based behaviors and systems 31:00 - The importance of acknowledging fear for genuine growth 33:22 - The false narratives around shame, divine love, and societal conditioning 36:19 - The role of fear and the illusion of separation in perpetuating conflict 37:14 - How understanding interconnectedness dissolves fear and hatred 38:26 - The significance of inner courage and vulnerability in overcoming fear 39:27 - The shift from living in fear to embracing love and acceptance 42:37 - The societal programming of fear embedded in religion and media 44:49 - Recognizing the true nature of love and the importance of personal truth 46:04 - Moving beyond control mechanisms through inner awareness 48:21 - Final reflections on the journey toward love and authenticity

    46 min

  3. MAR 16

    Oneself - Episode 34 - Feel It to Heal It

    Summary: In this episode, Stephen Maher and Adam Bartleman explore the complexities of mental health, therapy, and the societal structures that influence our well-being. They discuss the challenges of changing hearts and minds, the economic barriers to accessing mental health care, and the importance of finding purpose beyond mere survival. Through personal anecdotes and critical reflections, they emphasize the need for deeper self-awareness and community support in the pursuit of emotional healing. In this conversation, Stephen Maher and Adam explore the themes of workaholism, community, vulnerability, cultural perspectives on happiness, and the importance of self-observation. They discuss how survival mode leads to distraction through work and technology, the inconvenience of community, and the power of vulnerability in relationships. They also touch on the differences in cultural attitudes towards work and happiness, emphasizing the need for internal solutions to personal challenges rather than relying on external distractions. The conversation encourages listeners to observe their behaviors and seek deeper understanding and connection in their lives. Takeaways: Changing hearts and minds requires asking questions, not telling people what to think.Being a good example can inspire others to change.Therapy can be expensive and may not always provide the expected benefits.The transactional nature of therapy can feel hollow.Building supportive relationships can be more beneficial than traditional therapy.Economic barriers prevent many from accessing mental health care.Therapists should aim to empower clients to not need them anymore.Quick fixes often mask deeper issues rather than resolve them.Self-awareness and accountability are crucial for true healing.Finding purpose in life goes beyond mere survival. Workaholism is prevalent in North America as a means of distraction.Community is often viewed as inconvenient, yet it is essential for well-being.Vulnerability can be a powerful tool for connection and growth.Cultural differences influence how we perceive work and happiness.Self-observation is crucial for personal growth and understanding.Addiction can be seen as a way to pacify our nervous system.Creating meaning in life is a personal responsibility.The importance of reciprocal relationships in community.Internal solutions are more effective than external distractions.Living by example can inspire others to seek change. Chapters: 00:00Introduction to Changing Hearts and Minds 02:34Personal Experiences with Therapy 05:19The Economic Barriers to Mental Health 10:49Navigating the Therapy Landscape 15:23The Illusion of Quick Fixes 19:57Addressing the Root Causes of Mental Health 27:03Finding Purpose Beyond Survival 28:39Survival Mode and Workaholism 31:47Community and Connection 34:39Vulnerability as a Superpower 36:26Cultural Perspectives on Work and Happiness 40:07Observing Our Behaviors 43:02Internal vs. External Solutions

    45 min

  4. MAR 9

    Oneself - Episode 33 - Humans Are Not Inherently Evil

    Summary:In this conversation, Stephen Maher and Adam Bartleman explore the nature of humanity, arguing against the notion that humans are inherently evil. They discuss the impact of trauma, societal programming, and the illusion of separation from God. The dialogue emphasizes the importance of collective responsibility, the goodness of human instincts, and the potential for positive change. They also touch on the psychological aspects of modern society, the illusion of death, and the need for conscious choices to create a better reality. Takeaways: Humans are not born evil; they are shaped by their environment.Children are highly susceptible to programming, both good and bad.The concept of original sin distorts our understanding of humanity.We are inherently good and capable of love and community.The darkness in society is a result of collective trauma and programming.We have the power to choose a different reality.Death is an illusion; energy never dies, it only changes form.Our experiences are shaped by our beliefs and choices.We must recognize our collective responsibility for societal issues.Positive change starts with individual awareness and action.Chapters: 00:00The Nature of Humanity 02:58Programming and Conditioning 05:48Historical Context and Human Experience 09:00The Battle for Consciousness 11:50The Illusion of Separation 14:56Collective Responsibility and Karma 17:48Inherent Goodness of Humanity 24:09Understanding Psychological Warfare and Mental Prisons 27:38The Power of Choice and Positive Mindset 30:32Breaking Free from Fear-Based Beliefs 34:14The Impact of Personal Energy and Consciousness 39:26Death as an Illusion and the Nature of Existence

    42 min

  5. FEB 23

    Oneself - Episode 32 - The Reckoning Before the Awakening

    Summary: In this conversation, Stephen Maher and Adam Bartleman explore the complexities of personal growth, attachment styles, and the role of the ego in shaping our experiences. They discuss the importance of feeling safe in expressing oneself, the journey of self-discovery, and the often misguided pursuit of perfection. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, they emphasize the value of vulnerability, accountability, and gratitude in navigating life's challenges. Takeaways: Personal reckonings can lead to significant growth.Understanding attachment styles is crucial for healthy relationships.External guidance can sometimes provide clarity we lack ourselves.Feeling safe is essential for emotional expression.The journey of self-discovery is ongoing and layered.The ego plays a complex role in our lives and should not be demonized.Finding home within ourselves is a vital part of healing.Perfection is an illusion that can hinder our progress.Learning from failure is a key aspect of personal development.Teaching others often reflects our own learning journey.Chapters: 00:00A Week of Reckoning 02:36Exploring Attachment Styles 05:18The Role of Safety in Relationships 07:48The Journey of Self-Discovery 10:52The Ego and Its Purpose 13:21Finding Home Within 15:53Navigating Life's Lessons 19:44Embracing the Journey of Self-Discovery 21:41The Illusion of Perfection 23:54Vulnerability and Growth 27:29The Cycle of Learning and Self-Reflection 30:13Finding Peace in Imperfection 35:26The Weight of Integrity 41:21Gratitude and Support in the Journey

    43 min

  6. FEB 16

    Oneself - Episode 31 - Doing the Inner Work to Change the Outer Experience

    Summary: In this conversation, Stephen Maher and Adam Bartleman explore the chaotic state of the world and emphasize the importance of inner work as a means to effect change. They discuss the collective responsibility of individuals in addressing societal issues, the role of intuition in personal accountability, and the need to challenge cultural norms that perpetuate harm. The dialogue highlights the significance of creating safe spaces for children and the necessity of strengthening oneself to protect others. Ultimately, they encourage listeners to focus on self-improvement and awareness as a path to a better future. Takeaways: The inner work is essential for changing the outer experience.Collective responsibility is crucial in addressing societal issues.Intuition plays a key role in personal accountability.Cultural norms can perpetuate harm and need to be challenged.We must recognize our contributions to societal problems.Creating safe spaces for children is vital.Strengthening ourselves can deter harmful forces.Awareness of our own shadows is necessary for growth.Engaging in open conversations can foster change.Optimism and action are necessary in the face of darkness.Chapters: 00:00Introduction and Current Events Reflection 02:49The Importance of Inner Work 05:04Collective Responsibility and Awareness 09:45Trusting Intuition and Personal Accountability 14:33Cultural Norms and Their Impact 19:48Navigating Complex Moral Landscapes 21:26Cultural Perspectives on Sexuality 25:21The Complexity of Right and Wrong 29:05Breaking the Cycle of Silence 33:12Creating Safe Spaces for Children 39:01Strengthening Ourselves to Protect Others 41:52Navigating the Future with Awareness

    44 min

  7. FEB 9

    Oneself - Episode 30 - What If Wealth Wasn't About Money?

    Summary: In this conversation, Stephen Maher and Adam Bartleman explore the cultural significance of money, its impact on personal freedom, and the importance of self-improvement over financial gain. They discuss the illusion of money, the role of debt in limiting freedom, and the fear-based mindset that often accompanies financial decisions. The dialogue also touches on alternative economic systems, the spiritual perspective on wealth, and the potential of community and bartering as solutions to financial struggles. Ultimately, they emphasize the need for a shift in consciousness towards love and service, rather than fear and materialism. Takeaways: Money is often viewed as a cultural religion, influencing societal values.Self-improvement and personal growth should take precedence over financial gain.The illusion of money can trap individuals in a cycle of debt and fear.Debt narrows one's perspective and limits freedom of choice.Bartering and community support can provide alternatives to traditional financial systems.The younger generations are increasingly aware of the flaws in the current economic system.A spiritual perspective on wealth emphasizes love and service over materialism.Challenging the status quo is essential for societal change.Awareness and consciousness are key to breaking free from fear-based living.True wealth encompasses more than just financial assets; it includes personal fulfillment and community connections. Chapters: 00:00The Religion of Money 03:58Self-Improvement vs. Materialism 07:42The Fear of Debt and Control 11:22Freedom and the Mind 15:05Bartering and Community Solutions 18:53The Future of Wealth and Society 21:51Reorienting Towards Community and Bartering 24:38Questioning the Purpose of Existence 26:31Empathy and the Fear of Sharing Wealth 30:11The Flaws of Economic Systems 33:19Cryptocurrency as a Tool for Freedom 36:10Spiritual Perspective on Materialism 39:32Challenging the Status Quo 43:14Closing Thoughts on Personal Growth

    45 min

  8. FEB 2

    Oneself - Episode 29 - Just Different, Still Human

    Summary: In this conversation, Stephen Maher and Adam Bartiman delve into the themes of victimhood, accountability, and the complexities of separating art from the artist. They explore societal conditioning, the importance of gratitude, and the distractions of modern life. The discussion emphasizes the need for personal responsibility and the power of community and service in fostering connection and growth. Ultimately, they advocate for a deeper understanding of oneself and the world, encouraging listeners to embrace multiple truths and find clarity amidst chaos. Takeaways: Victimhood often stems from a lack of accountability.Separating the art from the artist allows for appreciation without endorsement.Cultural differences shape our perceptions of accountability.Gratitude can shift our perspective from lack to abundance.Modern distractions can lead to a disconnection from the present.Community and service are vital for personal fulfillment.Convenience can detract from meaningful experiences.Societal conditioning influences our sense of urgency and purpose.Understanding multiple truths can foster compassion and empathy.Self-awareness is key to breaking the cycle of victimhood.Chapters: 00:00Exploring Victimhood and Accountability 05:14Separating Art from the Artist 10:17Distractions from Real Issues 15:08Finding Meaning in Simplicity 22:49The Illusion of Convenience and Rushing Through Life 29:48Giving from Abundance vs. Lack Mindset 38:15Finding Gratitude in Our Conditions

    44 min
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5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Oneself is a raw and reflective podcast about identity, purpose, and transformation. Hosted by Stephen Maher and Adam Bartleman, the show explores how we come to understand who we are—through our experiences, relationships, and the deeper work of self-discovery. In each episode, they share personal stories and honest conversations around topics like mentorship, trauma, masculinity, healing, and growth. Whether you’re navigating your own path or curious about the human experience, Oneself invites you into a space where vulnerability meets wisdom and reflection leads to action.

Information

  • Creator
    Stephen Maher & Adam Bartleman
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    36
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Stephen Maher & Adam Bartleman