Oneself

Stephen Maher
  • 5.0 (8)
  • Self-Improvement

Oneself is a podcast about questioning the stories we've inherited, and figuring out who we are underneath them. Hosted by Stephen Maher, 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 61 - Finding Purpose After Loss

    What happens when life's hardest experiences become the reason you fight for something bigger than yourself? In this episode of Oneself, Stephen Maher sits down with Jeff Johnston, founder and CEO of the Brightn app to explore how personal tragedy, grief, and the realities of mental health can shape the way we live, connect, and find purpose. Jeff shares his experience of losing his son and wife to addiction and the difficult journey that followed, reflecting on the relationship between mental health and addiction, the challenge of navigating despair, and the role that purpose can play in moving forward. He explains how Stoic philosophy has helped him approach grief and life's unpredictability, and how the experiences that cause us pain can also change the way we show up for others. The conversation explores what it means to build resilience without pretending that hardship is easy, why vulnerability is essential to genuine connection, and how gratitude and perspective can help us keep going through difficult times. Jeff also reflects on turning personal pain into advocacy and the importance of building communities and systems that support mental wellness. This is a conversation about finding meaning in the midst of hardship, being honest about what we're going through, and using our experiences to make a difference in the lives of others. In this episode, we explore: How personal loss can reshape our sense of purposeThe connection between mental health, addiction, and the need for supportWhy purpose becomes passion when it gets personalUsing Stoic philosophy to navigate grief and uncertaintyBuilding resilience through adversity and changing our perspectiveThe role of gratitude in getting through life's hardest momentsWhy vulnerability and emotional honesty are signs of strengthTurning personal pain into meaningful advocacyThe importance of community, connection, and better mental health support If you've ever struggled to make sense of a painful experience, questioned your purpose, or wondered how to keep moving forward when life takes an unexpected turn, this conversation is a reminder that we don't have to face those challenges alone. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Jeff Johnston's Journey01:55 – The Meaning of Purpose and Passion05:13 – Jeff's Personal Tragedy: The Loss of Seth and his wife Prudence10:12 – The Road of Despair vs. Hope15:08 – The Role of Stoicism in Healing19:57 – Creating Purpose from Personal Pain24:54 – The Impact of Addiction and Mental Health29:54 – Building Resilience and Trust in Systems34:57 – The Power of Gratitude and Perspective40:09 – The Importance of Vulnerability and Community44:59 – Creating Solutions and Moving Forward Oneself is a podcast about identity, purpose, spirituality, and personal growth. We're not here as experts with all the answers. We're fellow humans trying to figure it out, questioning the stories we tell ourselves and learning from the people and experiences that shape us. Follow Jeff below: https://www.brightn.app/https://www.instagram.com/brightnapp/https://www.facebook.com/brightnapphttps://www.linkedin.com/company/brightnapp/home/https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffrey-a-johnston/

  2. Oct 12

    Oneself - Episode 60 - The Power of Having Someone in Your Corner

    What does it actually take to change, and how do we know we're moving in the right direction? In this episode of Oneself, Stephen Maher sits down with Bryan Bush, founder of the Reboot Project, a nonprofit helping veterans and first responders navigate transitions, trauma, and personal growth. Bryan shares how his military background shaped his understanding of discipline, leadership, and community, and why meaningful change requires more than motivation. Together, they explore the relationship between self-awareness and accountability, the importance of building systems that support our goals, and how community can help us move through resistance and become more intentional about who we're becoming. The conversation also challenges conventional ideas about masculinity, exploring how discipline and strength can coexist with love, vulnerability, and authentic self-expression. From the role of mentors and shared purpose to the connection between physical health and mental well-being, Bryan offers a perspective on growth rooted in both personal responsibility and collective support. We're all navigating change in one way or another. The question is whether we're doing it intentionally and whether the people and systems around us are helping us become more fully ourselves. In this episode, we explore: - Why self-awareness and accountability are foundations for meaningful change- The difference between changing for the sake of change and committing to continuous improvement- How intentional change theory can help us create a more deliberate path forward- Why goals, structure, and finishing what we start matter- Rethinking masculinity through the balance of discipline, strength, and love- How community, mentorship, and shared purpose support personal growth- The connection between physical health, mental well-being, and accountability- How the Reboot Project helps veterans and first responders navigate life's transitions Chapters: 00:00Introduction to Bryan Bush and the Reboot Project00:44Brian's background and motivation for the Reboot Project01:55Helping veterans and first responders through transitions02:22Assessment and resource redirection in trauma recovery03:47Change management as awareness and accountability04:38The mindset of addiction to change and improvement05:13Dealing with resistance and motivation in change06:33The intentional change theory and its founder Richard Boyatsis08:00Self-directed change and curating a personal system10:16The importance of setting goals and crossing finishing lines12:21The balance of discipline and love in masculinity14:02The warrior mindset and evolving identity15:41The role of community and accountability17:24The significance of authenticity and self-expression21:11The power of belief and gratitude23:37The impact of books like 'Can't Hurt Me' and motivation26:24Parenting, love, and modern masculinity28:15The influence of mentors and military bonds32:55Building community and the importance of shared purpose36:55Authenticity in leadership and community building39:46The journey of self-discovery and continuous improvement45:34Using data and science to optimize health50:12The levels of health, nutrition, and accountability54:12The structure of the Reboot Project: Basecamp, High Camp, Summit55:34Motivation, accountability, and overcoming barriers57:16Fear, risk, and the pursuit of greatness58:51The importance of community and shared purpose01:00:10Final thoughts and call to action for listeners About Bryan Bush and the Reboot Project: Bryan Bush founded the Reboot Project to help veterans and first responders navigate change and find the support and resources they need to move forward. Through a structured approach that includes Basecamp, High Camp, and Summit, the project emphasizes personal growth, accountability, and community. If you're questioning your direction, working through a major transition, or trying to build a life that better reflects who you are, this conversation offers a reminder that lasting change begins with awareness, and grows through intentional action and connection. Connect with the Reboot Project:  https://www.therebootproject.org/https://www.instagram.com/the_reboot_project_usa/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560290818544

  3. Oct 5

    Oneself - Episode 59 - When Your Body Forces You to Listen

    Summary: Stephen shares his personal journey through an Achilles tendon rupture, recovery, and the deeper lessons learned about patience, gratitude, and the importance of asking for help. This episode explores physical, emotional, and spiritual resilience in the face of adversity. Takeaways Injury can be a catalyst for self-awareness and growth.Patience and consistent effort are key to recovery.Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness.Gratitude shifts perspective and fosters resilience.Physical injuries can deepen spiritual and emotional practices. Chapters 00:00Introduction and Stephen’s injury background 02:00Medical diagnosis and the importance of insurance 03:52The significance of nature and physical activity 06:12Physical therapy and optimizing recovery 07:56Strangers’ support and community experience 10:01Lessons on slowing down and balance 12:06The importance of patience and consistent effort 14:12Modern medicine versus historical injury treatment 16:04Navigating physical limitations and small victories 17:48The importance of vulnerability and asking for help 19:58The interconnectedness of physical and mental health 20:52Gratitude for modern medicine and support systems 21:58The value of presence and mindfulness during recovery 23:01The power of community and shared experiences 23:57The importance of humility and vulnerability 24:57Reframing injury as a growth opportunity 25:55The role of patience and discipline in healing 27:01The ongoing journey and future outlook 28:02Closing thoughts and gratitude 29:08Final reflections and encouragement for listeners

  4. Sep 28

    Oneself - Episode 58 - A Good Death

    Summary: On this week's episode of Oneself, Stephen and Adam talk with Jasmine Henry, a death educator from Houston, Texas. Jasmine shares insights on the importance of community, access, and cultural practices in end-of-life care. This episode explores how conversations about death can transform communities and individual lives. Takeaways: The role of death educators and doulas in community careAccess disparities in end-of-life care for Black and Brown communitiesThe impact of systemic distrust and historical trauma on death careThe importance of cultural rituals and community involvement in mourningThe influence of religion and spirituality on death decisionsThe need for open conversations about death and dyingInnovative death rituals from around the worldThe future of death in the digital age and environmental considerationsChapters: 00:00Introduction to Jaz Henry and the episode's focus 02:01What is a death educator and what does the role entail? 04:59Access disparities in end-of-life care among Black and Brown communities 10:03The systemic distrust rooted in historical trauma 14:47The influence of religion and spirituality on death decisions 19:54Community care and the return to traditional death rituals 24:50The importance of conversations about death and dying 29:59Innovative and cultural death rituals from around the world 34:56The future of death: digital bodies and environmental considerations 39:54How community and vulnerability can transform grief and mourning 45:03Closing thoughts and resources for community death care

  5. Sep 21

    Oneself - Episode 57 - The Man You Were Taught to Be

    Summary: In this episode, Stephen and Adam explore the true meaning of masculinity, vulnerability, and the importance of self-love among men. They discuss societal programming, the impact of language, and how men can embrace a healthier, more balanced identity. Takeaways: The societal programming of masculinity and its impactThe importance of vulnerability and emotional expression for menLanguage and its role in shaping perceptions of strength and weaknessThe need for self-love and compassion among menThe influence of role models and cultural narratives on masculinityThe contrast between traditional masculinity and healthy emotional balanceThe role of fear and insecurity in male behaviorHow societal change can foster healthier masculinity Chapters: 00:00Introduction and overview of the episode 01:52Men's reactions to vulnerability and societal expectations 04:12The programming of masculinity by family and culture 07:07The importance of love and emotional expression among men 09:53Societal myths about strength and masculinity 12:59The illusion of toughness and its fragility 16:14The impact of language and labels on perceptions of weakness 18:53Questions to challenge societal norms and beliefs 22:03The importance of self-awareness and compassion 25:09The role of fear and insecurity in male behavior 27:57The need for societal change and healthier models of masculinity 30:52Practical steps for men to embrace vulnerability and love 33:59The future of masculinity and societal evolution

  6. Sep 7

    Oneself - Episode 56 - Love. Allow. Be.

    Summary: On this week's episode of Oneself, Stephen and Adam speak with Tamila Tim, who shares her unique insights on death, consciousness, past lives, and the spiritual journey, blending her experiences as a hypnotherapist, nurse, and medium to explore profound questions about life and beyond. Takeaways: - Perspectives on death as a transition, not an end- The role of love and liberation in understanding death- Past lives and their influence on current life- The nature of consciousness beyond physical death- Near-death experiences and what they reveal about the afterlife- The importance of community and relationships in spiritual growth- The impact of water and water-related near-death experiences- The concept of energy and tethering in death and transition- The role of love, allow, and be in spiritual practice- The cultural differences in approaching death and dying Chapters: 00:00Introduction to Tamila Tim and her background01:01Experiences in Guatemala and the magic of Lake Atitlan02:50Cultural perspectives on death and the afterlife03:21Tamala's memories of seeing spirit since childhood04:16Death as a transition, not an end08:44Near-death experience during water drowning12:14Past lives and their influence on current life16:06Soul connections and past life agreements22:27Why humanity is stuck in separation and judgment26:19Earth as a classroom for spiritual growth33:35The beauty of death and the transition process36:43Supporting loved ones at the moment of death44:07Consciousness and awareness at the moment of death54:41Spirit's message: love, allow, and be Follow Tamila Here: https://www.facebook.com/share/1EbHgFR9sd/?mibextid=wwXIfrhttps://www.instagram.com/guidesofwisdom/https://www.tiktok.com/@guidesofwisdom?_r=1&_t=ZS-99BS7RuysPYhttps://youtube.com/@guidesofwisdom?si=uFBTG_Y3Ooypdmg2https://guidesofwisdom.com/

  7. Aug 31

    Oneself - Episode 55 - The Art of Adapting

    Summary: On this week's episode of Oneself, Stephen Maher and Adam Bartleman talk with Karl Ritter. Stephen and Karl are friends who bonded over their shared experience with low vision while meeting in Guatemala. They discuss what it means to live with low vision, and how community, humor, and adaptation shape daily life. The conversation also explores the Pacific Northwest, changing food systems, environmental habits in Guatemala, and the challenge of staying active when your body changes. Takeaways: Stephen explains how he met Karl in Guatemala and why the connection felt so natural.Karl shares how low vision differs from hearing loss in terms of community and shared access.Adam reflects on growing up in the Pacific Northwest and how much he took its nature and air quality for granted.Karl compares Canadian and American media, especially how border life shaped his exposure to radio and TV.The group discusses travel, temperature, and how living near Canada taught Karl the Celsius scale through experience.Karl describes changes he has noticed in the US, including tap to pay, appointments for basic services, and the quality of food.The conversation turns to Guatemala’s food culture, fresh produce, compostable packaging, and the rise of ultra-processed foods.Karl explains how garbage, infrastructure, and education all affect pollution around Lake Atitlán.The group reflects on aging, disability, injury, and how to let go of activities that no longer serve your body.Karl closes with advice to keep going, find a new activity, and build community around it.Chapters: (00:00) - Opening and introductions (00:51) - How Stephen and Karl met in Guatemala (04:09) - Why blind and low-vision communities form differently (06:44) - Humor as a coping mechanism (08:51) - Growing up in the Pacific Northwest (10:02) - Canadian radio, media, and border culture (12:17) - Learning Celsius through everyday life (14:34) - Tap to pay and changing routines (17:06) - Food quality and the texture of US restaurant food (22:14) - Processed food, snacks, and changing diets in Guatemala (24:24) - Lake Atitlán, travelers, and technology habits (30:17) - Pollution, trash, and the shift away from organic materials (33:27) - Education, recycling, and community cleanup efforts (39:16) - Ultra-processed food and health impacts (47:34) - Staying active through injury and vision changes (50:52) - Community through disc golf, hiking, and bowling (55:25) - Reading less and choosing better books (57:03) - Aging, safety, and reducing risk (59:46) - Final thoughts on grief, adaptation, and community Karl's Social Media: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NgQH5zNPww0https://www.facebook.com/ABlindLife/https://www.instagram.com/ablindlife?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsi=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==https://ablindlife.com/

  8. Aug 24

    Oneself - Episode 54 - We Are What We Eat

    Summary: In this episode of Oneself, Stephen and Adam talk with Patricia Greer, who shares her lifelong journey with food, community, and sustainability, exploring how food connects us to ourselves, each other, and the earth. They discuss cycles in nature, the importance of stillness, and how love and community can foster hope for the future. Takeaways: Food as a source of comfort and communityThe cycle of growth, decay, and renewal in natureThe importance of stillness and presence in lifeThe role of plant medicine in healing and consciousnessBuilding community through local food initiativesThe spiritual and cultural significance of foodThe impact of modern agriculture on health and environmentThe importance of passing down wisdom across generations Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to Pat Greer03:29 - The role of food in nourishing the soul06:37 - Dealing with excess food and community sharing10:28 - The evolution of sustainable food practices14:49 - Unconscious consciousness and interconnectedness16:31 - Cycles in farming, community, and global events19:41 - The importance of nurturing the earth and resources22:19 - Acts of kindness and community support24:19 - Passing down wisdom through generations30:17 - The communication of plants and the intelligence of nature33:39 - Food as medicine and the impact of processed foods36:36 - The evolution of food products and ingredients37:17 - Sustainable practices and permaculture42:32 - Hope for the future and the power of love44:35 - The interconnectedness of all life and energy48:47 - The value of community, sharing, and intergenerational wisdom52:46 - Redefining power and community service56:28 - The miracle of life and the cosmic lottery57:22 - Gratitude and the importance of love and presence58:52 - Final thoughts and encouragement to love and hug

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5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Oneself is a podcast about questioning the stories we've inherited, and figuring out who we are underneath them. Hosted by Stephen Maher, 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
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    61
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Stephen Maher