Artfully Mindful

D. R. Thompson
  • 5.0 (2)
  • SELF-IMPROVEMENT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to the w3 award-winning podcast, 'Artfully Mindful', produced and hosted by D. R. (Don) Thompson. Don is a filmmaker, essayist, and playwright. He also teaches meditation because meditation has helped him understand life more deeply and be more effective as a creative. In addition to degrees in Film and Media Studies from UCLA, Don is certified to teach mindfulness meditation through UC Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center and Sounds True. He is also a founding partner with the Center for Mindful Business and a university professor and mentor. His website is: www.nextpixprods.com

  1. JAN 27

    What is an Artist?

    What if art’s real job is to translate life into something we can carry? Don Thompson takes us into a clear, honest exploration of what an artist is, why beauty matters, and how creative work helps us make sense of a noisy world. We follow the thread from paint to prose to film, seeing how each medium turns private perception into public form—and why that matters for anyone trying to understand their own experience. We tackle the friction that fuels art history: realism giving way to impressionism, expressionism pushing back, cubism and abstraction insisting on new ways to see. Along the way, Don lays out a candid distinction between efficiency and art, showing how market pressures can narrow vision while true craft often asks for risk, slowness, and integrity. Film becomes a case study in the pull between commercial viability and a personal aesthetic, and we talk about the artists who choose one path, the artists who choose the other, and the audiences who sometimes catch up years later. At the heart of the conversation is vocation. Where does the creative calling come from—genetics, upbringing, temperament? Maybe all of the above. What matters is the familiar urge that rises and demands expression. Don argues that anyone can find an artistic voice and that the act of making is a way to stay whole. We press on the big question of meaning—whether we discover it or create it—and explore how tragedy can be transformed through story and symbol into something coherent and even beautiful. By the end, truth, beauty, and love feel less like separate ideals and more like a single current artists try to reveal. If this resonates, follow the show, share it with a friend who needs permission to make, and leave a review to help more curious minds find us. Support the show Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

    15 min

  2. 12/21/2025

    Year-End Reflections On Teaching And Turbulence

    A quiet return turns into a brisk tour through a semester of teaching, a new research chapter, and a philosophical lens for a turbulent public square. We start with the energy of the classroom in Washington, where corporate social responsibility moved from buzzword to practice: people, planet, and profit in real institutions with real constraints. That momentum carries into a fresh ABD milestone and a quantitative study on climate attitudes in the United States, designed to map how identity, trust, and media shape what people believe—and why scientific consensus so often misfires on impact. From there, we open a door to Paul Franco’s framing of Rousseau and Nietzsche, two voices that keep echoing through American life. Rousseau’s social contract and commitment to equality under law collide with Nietzsche’s will to power and the creation of personal values in a secular age. Seen together, they sketch a live fault line in our politics: egalitarian rules versus exceptional self-authorization. We explore how this tension shows up in wealth concentration, leader worship, and the health of democratic norms, and we ask what it takes to steer passion back toward constitutional ground without losing vitality or courage. The conversation widens to AI’s disruptive role in universities, the rise of social angst and violence, and the practical work of cultivating inner steadiness. Mindfulness isn’t a partisan answer, but it helps us pause, notice, and choose better. Teaching continues next term with storytelling, research advances, and the long arc of civic life remains open to the work we do together. If these themes resonate—CSR, climate communication, Rousseau versus Nietzsche, the rule of law, and the search for peace—tune in, subscribe, and share your take. Leave a review and tell us: where do you see equality and power colliding in your world? Support the show Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

    27 min

  3. 06/14/2025

    Truth, Tolerance, and the Threat to Intellectual Life in America

    What happens when political power directly challenges academic freedom? Fresh from a six-month sabbatical from podcasting, I'm witnessing concerning parallels between McCarthyism and the current political climate's impact on American universities. The Trump administration's approach to higher education—slashing research funding and criticizing intellectual exploration—threatens to fundamentally alter the academic landscape. Working within this system, I see firsthand how political pressure creates a chilling effect on the free exchange of ideas. When politicians dictate what professors can teach and researchers can study, we lose something essential to our society's ability to grow and adapt. America has always maintained a complex relationship with intellectual life. Our nation's founding by religious reformers embedded certain anti-intellectual tendencies that persist today, helping explain why critiques of "wokeness" resonate with many Americans. The current tensions reflect a deeper conflict between worldviews—one that sees truth as discovered through dialogue and critical examination versus approaches that insist on singular, unquestioned truths. The university should remain a space where diverse perspectives can interact productively—where Christian, Islamic, Jewish, scientific, and humanistic viewpoints can be explored with mutual respect. This tolerance for intellectual diversity doesn't threaten society; it strengthens it. Rather than imposing ideological constraints through funding cuts, we should be fostering environments where Socratic questioning thrives. Our intellectual richness as a nation depends on our willingness to protect these spaces of open inquiry. What kind of society do we want to become? One that fears challenging questions, or one that embraces them as the path to greater understanding? The choice we make now will shape American intellectual life for generations to come. Support the show Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

    23 min

  4. 12/30/2024

    Embracing Change: A Sabbatical Journey

    Kicking off 2025 with a whirlwind of changes, I, Don Thompson, bring you a podcast episode filled with personal insights and professional shifts. As we usher in a new presidency, the potential impacts on our administrative state—especially for those of us with family ties to government—are unknown and intriguing. This episode takes on a special significance as I announce my sabbatical from the podcast world to embrace a passion for teaching media and film courses in Washington DC and Maryland. It's a time of transition, reflection, and new adventures, and I'm deeply thankful for your unwavering support throughout this journey. Curious about the growing trend of sabbaticals? Get ready to uncover insights from the Harvard Business Review as we explore this fascinating topic with the help of authors Kira Schabram, Matt Bloom, and DJ DiDonna. From the rising popularity of employer-offered sabbaticals to the independent options chosen by professionals, this discussion unveils the three types of sabbaticals and their benefits. Whether you're contemplating your own career break or just interested in the evolving workplace dynamics, this conversation promises to shed light on the purposeful pauses that can redefine careers and lives alike. You can read the Harvard Business Review article referenced in the podcast here. Music: Ty Simon - 'Lifted Spirits' Support the show Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

    16 min

  5. 12/23/2024

    New Year, New Beginnings

    Ever wondered how a simple shift in language could transform your life? Join me, Don Thompson, as we kick off 2025 with an episode brimming with personal insights aimed at sparking positive change. We unravel the unsuspecting impact of the phrase "I don't care," unveiling its potential to lead to unwelcome outcomes. Experience the stirring world of classical music, with Tchaikovsky's Violin Concerto as a standout example, and discover how these timeless compositions can nurture feelings of innocence and purity. Together, we'll also explore the importance of speaking well of others and fostering encouragement, particularly within educational settings, to cultivate a supportive environment for growth. Embark on a journey through the Buddhist teaching of equanimity, drawing inspiration from the sun's impartial warmth to embrace gratitude in all situations. This episode marks a milestone in my personal journey—celebrating three years of podcasting and the joy of sharing these reflections with you. Through these discussions, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to you, my listeners, hoping to inspire a more mindful and uplifting approach to life. Whether you're searching for transformative advice or simply seeking solace in shared experience, this episode promises insights that resonate deeply with our shared human experience. Note: Don Thompson will be taking a sabbatical from 'Artfully Mindful' after next week. He'll talk more about his upcoming sabbatical during that podcast. Music: Alchemorph - 'Friendship' Support the show Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

    17 min

  6. 12/16/2024

    Trump's Return: Threat or Catalyst for Change?

    Is the re-election of Donald Trump a threat to the values of mindfulness, compassion, and kindness, or could it be an unexpected catalyst for positive change? As we unpack the implications of Trump's surprising return to the presidency, we explore the stark contrast between his aggressive worldview and the values many of us hold dear. Drawing from Lisa Lehrer's insightful analysis in the New York Times, we delve into concerns surrounding potential authoritarian tendencies, economic challenges linked to proposed tariffs, and broader societal trends that have fueled Trump's support. Amidst the uncertainty, we reflect on the possibility of positive outcomes, such as enhanced government efficiency, while keeping hope alive and staying proactive. Navigating this new political landscape, we ponder the potential for Trump’s administration to surprise skeptics and enact policies that genuinely benefit the American people. Even as skepticism lingers, there is a desire for solutions that make a tangible difference. We also discuss potential changes for the podcast, hinting at a possible sabbatical in the coming year as I prepare to work in Washington, D.C. Despite this potential pause, the commitment to fostering positive change and reducing suffering remains unwavering, encouraging listeners to uphold these values and remain hopeful for a better future. Music: Semo - 'Chemtrails' Support the show Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

    19 min

  7. 12/09/2024

    REPLAY: Body Scan: A Mindful Journey to Self-Awareness

    Unlock the secrets of mindfulness and transform your relationship with your own body with Don Thompson's guided journey through the powerful practice of the body scan. Imagine experiencing each moment with heightened awareness and compassion, beginning with the simple act of noticing your left foot. This episode promises to equip you with the tools to cultivate a deeper connection with your physical being, inspired by the teachings of renowned mentors Tara Brach and Jack Kornfield. Engage in a gentle exploration of your body's sensations, learning to breathe into tension and embrace both comfort and discomfort with mindful presence. Venture into the roots of this practice as we discuss its origins in Burmese Vipassana meditation and its pivotal role in mindfulness-based stress reduction, a method championed by Jon Kabat-Zinn. Discover how the body scan can ground you in the present moment, fostering a mindful and connected life. Whether you're a seasoned practitioner or a curious beginner, this episode offers a compassionate guide to enhancing your overall mindfulness experience, empowering you to become more attuned to your body's language and live life with a newfound sense of awareness. Support the show Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

    13 min

  8. 12/02/2024

    REPLAY: Breathing into Tension

    Discover the transformative power of mindful breathing with this episode of the podcast, where Don Thompson leads you through the art of "Breathing into Tension." What if you could unlock a simple technique to alleviate the burden of daily stress? Join us as we explore how the pressures of modern life manifest physically and mentally, and learn to harness the breath to release stored tension. Don offers an insightful journey into mindfulness, perfect for both seasoned practitioners and those new to the world of mindful breathing. Settle into a comfortable position, perhaps lying down or seated, and prepare to immerse yourself in an exercise designed to target tension points in the body through visualization and focused breathing. Imagine a radiant white light bringing nourishment and release to areas of discomfort, as you learn to hold your entire body in awareness. This episode doesn't just provide a calming exercise but encourages reflection, with an invitation to note any shifts or changes in your body's response. Grab a pen and paper to capture thoughts or questions that arise, and let's walk together toward a more peaceful, relaxed state of mind and body. Support the show Website: www.nextpixprods.com PLEASE READ - Terms of Use: https://www.nextpixprods.com/terms-of-use.html Note that Don Thompson is now available as a coach or mentor on an individual basis. To find out more, please go to his website www.nextpixprods.com, and use the 'contact' form to request additional information.

    11 min
See All (106)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to the w3 award-winning podcast, 'Artfully Mindful', produced and hosted by D. R. (Don) Thompson. Don is a filmmaker, essayist, and playwright. He also teaches meditation because meditation has helped him understand life more deeply and be more effective as a creative. In addition to degrees in Film and Media Studies from UCLA, Don is certified to teach mindfulness meditation through UC Berkeley's Greater Good Science Center and Sounds True. He is also a founding partner with the Center for Mindful Business and a university professor and mentor. His website is: www.nextpixprods.com

Information

  • Creator
    D. R. Thompson
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    106
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Artfully Mindful
  • Show Website
    Artfully Mindful