Oneself

Stephen Maher & Adam Bartleman
  • 5.0 (8)
  • 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. 6d ago

    Oneself - Episode 46 - Being Nice Isn't Being Good

    Summary: In this episode of Oneself, Stephen Maher and Adam Bartleman explore the difference between being nice and being good, and why authenticity, self-awareness, and personal integrity are essential for meaningful relationships and personal growth. They discuss how societal conditioning shapes our behavior, the hidden costs of people-pleasing, and how living in alignment with our values can lead to greater compassion, connection, and emotional freedom. Through a conversation on self-discovery, consciousness, relationships, and personal development, they examine the illusion of separation, the impact of conditional love, and practical ways to cultivate authenticity in everyday life. Takeaways: Self-awareness and personal growthThe difference between being nice and being goodAuthenticity, honesty, and integrityPeople-pleasing and conflict avoidanceSocietal conditioning and unconscious behaviorConscious relationships and emotional maturityConditional love versus authentic connectionPersonal responsibility and self-discoveryThe illusion of separation and human interconnectednessCompassion, consciousness, and living in alignment with your valuesChapters: 00:00 – Introduction: Self-Awareness, Authenticity & Personal Growth 01:17 – Being Nice vs Being Good 03:30 – The Hidden Cost of People-Pleasing 04:50 – Authenticity, Honesty & Self-Expression 07:02 – Conditional Love and Emotional Attachment 09:20 – How Societal Conditioning Shapes Behavior 12:40 – Transactional Relationships and Expectations 17:37 – Non-Attachment, Acceptance and Inner Peace 19:42 – Human Connection and Interconnectedness 20:33 – Morality, Happiness and Conscious Living 27:17 – Expanding Your Sense of Self 34:55 – The Illusion of Separation and Collective Growth 39:11 – Living Authentically in the Present Moment 44:49 – Final Reflections on Compassion, Integrity and Personal Transformation

    45 min

  2. Jun 1

    Oneself - Episode 45 - The Ritual Trap

    Summary:In this episode, Stephen Maher and Adam Bartleman delve into the profound role of rituals in spiritual and religious contexts. They discuss how rituals can serve as powerful tools for growth or become traps that reinforce separation and fear, shaping human history and personal development alike. Takeaways: The true purpose of rituals as frameworks for growth, not rigid dogmasHow misunderstandings of sacred texts and rituals lead to division and violenceThe importance of inner connection over external rituals in achieving spiritual realizationThe influence of fear, shame, and societal conditioning on religious practicesThe role of wisdom, collective memory, and the healing of trauma in human evolutionRecognizing our divine nature and the unity underlying all spiritual teachingsChapters: 00:00 Exploring Rituals in Religion and Spirituality05:25 Misunderstanding Rituals and Their Purpose10:00 The Role of Wisdom and Knowledge in Society20:05 The Impact of Generational Wisdom on Society28:34 Corruption in Politics and the Need for Change30:31 Rituals and Their Impact on Consciousness30:56 Hypocrisy in Religious Practices32:48 The Role of Money in Religion34:43 Rituals as a Form of Control36:43 Fear-Based Practices in Religion39:04 The Illusion of Separation and the Need for Unity40:52 The Fear of Questioning Beliefs43:17 Misinterpretation of Spiritual Teachings44:43 Hope for a New Consciousness48:43 The Importance of Self-Connection

    54 min

  3. May 25

    Oneself - Episode 44 - Food is Medicine

    Summary: In this episode of Oneself, Stephen Maher and Adam Bartleman delve into the profound impact of food on our health and society. It explores the concept of food as medicine, the addictive nature of sugar, and the importance of mindful eating. The discussion also highlights the role of local food systems and the spiritual dimensions of dietary choices. Takeaways: Food can be a powerful tool for healing and prevention.Refined sugar has significant negative effects on brain health and can contribute to diseases.Small, gradual changes in diet can lead to sustainable health improvements.Local food systems and community gardens enhance resilience and self-reliance.Conscious eating connects with spiritual and ethical values.Chapters: Introduction (00:00) Food as medicine and societal perspectives.The Dangers of Sugar (02:01) Sugar's link to degenerative diseases.Addiction and Processed Foods (04:11) Understanding sugar addiction.Personal Dietary Experiences (06:22) Stories of dietary changes and challenges.Diet and Chronic Illness (07:53) Impact on cancer and chronic diseases.Cultural Dietary Blind Spots (12:24) Western dietary habits and hospital food.Holistic Nutrition (14:02) Nutrition's role in disease prevention.Gut Health and Microbiome (16:36) The mind-body connection.Veganism and Spirituality (18:20) Exploring plant-based diets.Dietary Misconceptions (23:17) Protein and dietary requirements.Self-Reliance and Local Food (27:48) Building resilience through local systems.Traditional Food Practices (33:21) Appreciation of fermentation and pickling.Community and Food Independence (43:13) The importance of local food independence.Final Thoughts (48:22) Cultivating awareness for a healthier society.

    51 min

  4. May 18

    Oneself - Episode 43 - Contraceptives and Choices

    Summary: In this episode, Stephen Maher and Adam Bartleman delve into the complex world of male contraceptives, personal responsibility, societal pressures, and the importance of aligning your choices with your values. They share personal experiences, discuss the cultural landscape, and advocate for proactive decision-making in matters of fatherhood and contraception. Takeaways: The unique experience of Adam’s vasectomy procedure - how simple and accessible it isThe importance of men taking responsibility for contraceptive choicesSocietal disparities between male and female contraceptive options The psychological and cultural barriers men face regarding vasectomyThe dangers and ethical considerations of "baby trapping" and irresponsible procreationHow early trauma and societal conditioning influence our views on parenthoodThe significance of clear communication and self-awareness in relationshipsThe impact of societal expectations and gender stereotypes around masculinityHow to navigate co-parenting relationships and handle unintended pregnancies responsiblyThe importance of questioning societal norms and choosing a life aligned with authentic values Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest00:17 - Personal perspectives on contraception and vasectomy01:33 - Adam’s choice to get a vasectomy - the process and recovery02:28 - Comparing access and societal attitudes towards male vs. female contraceptives03:54 - The emotional and health considerations around contraceptive use04:46 - The role of societal and cultural pressures in reproductive decisions05:58 - How childhood trauma influences current views on parenthood07:13 - The importance of clear, honest communication in relationships08:40 - The systemic bias in medical procedures for women09:36 - The significance of male responsibility in contraception12:12 - Confronting the baby trapping mentality and ethical issues13:12 - Relationship deal breakers related to children and values14:55 - The influence of societal conditioning and unhealthy attachments17:20 - The masculinity misconception surrounding vasectomy18:43 - The benefits of vasectomy as a one-time, non-invasive solution22:54 - The societal narrative around masculinity and fertility25:36 - How irresponsible procreation harms society and women28:28 - Personal stories of the discomfort of invasive female contraceptive procedures30:11 - The importance of autonomy and making informed decisions31:52 - How cultural factors shape reproductive behavior in different regions34:17 - The significance of intentionality and conscious decision-making37:06 - The realities and challenges of co-parenting after unintended pregnancies38:50 - Gratitude for personal choices and the importance of individual sovereignty41:22 - Reflection on societal pressures and personal growth43:34 - Final thoughts on living authentically and rejecting societal scripts

    46 min

  5. May 11

    Oneself - Episode 42 - Low Vision, Clear Purpose

    Summary: In this episode of Oneself, Stephen Maher and Adam Bartleman discuss Stephen's personal journey of overcoming visual impairments, cultural challenges, and internal struggles. Discover how his experiences shaped his perspective on humility, empathy, and self-love, and learn practical lessons on resilience and growth. Takeaways: Personal journey with low vision and cultural identityImpact of childhood experiences and bullyingRole of music and arts in healing and self-expressionBreaking family cycles of addiction and traumaDeveloping humility, empathy, and self-loveChapters: 00:00Introduction and Personal Background 02:16Experiences with Low Vision and Sports 06:19Discovering Music as an Outlet 11:40Navigating Insecurities and Fear 14:59Finding Gratitude and Humility 21:01Family Dynamics and Support 23:18Medical Experiences and Community 25:01Navigating Adolescence with Visual Impairment 29:08Exploring Identity Through Arts and Hobbies 32:40Breaking Generational Patterns of Addiction 37:49Redefining Love and Self-Acceptance 42:46The Journey of Personal Growth and Confidence

    49 min

  6. May 4

    Oneself - Episode 41 - You're Not Stuck, You're Repeating a Pattern

    Summary: In this episode, Stephen Maher and Adam share personal stories and insights about recognizing life’s patterns, internal healing, and the journey towards consciousness. Discover how breaking generational cycles and embracing vulnerability can lead to profound growth. Takeaways: Recognizing early signs of feeling misaligned with societal and religious conditioning Paranormal and spiritual experiences from childhood and their implicationsThe impact of medication and substances on emotional numbness and awakeningThe process of quitting alcohol and antidepressants organicallyHow working out and physical activity support emotional healing and mental clarityThe importance of pattern recognition in personal development and societal observationsThe role of gratitude and response over reaction in daily lifeBreaking free from victimhood and victim mentality rooted in familial patterns Navigating emotional polarity: experiencing and accepting negative emotions without suppressionThe concept of life as a mirror facilitating inner alignment and growthChapters: 00:00 - Introduction and topic overview: recognizing life's patterns and personal transformation01:37 - Spiritual experiences and understanding greater consciousness03:30 - The effects of medication and emotional numbness06:54 - Reconnection with spiritual awareness later in life10:25 - The role of alcohol in numbing pain and fostering false feelings13:13 - The relationship between sobriety and healthier habits15:04 - Starting fitness journey amidst alcohol abuse20:03 - Recognizing societal drinking patterns and personal choices25:38 - The experience of waking up and seeing societal illusions30:03 - Breaking generational addiction and victimhood patterns34:00 - Ongoing growth: handling reactions and cultivating positivity39:12 - Emotional acceptance and sitting with feelings to facilitate healing45:04 - Life as a mirror for inner healing, patterns, karma, and collective consciousness47:15 - Closing thoughts: embracing the journey of awakening and transformation

    48 min

  7. Apr 27

    Oneself - Episode 40 - The Balance Men Were Never Taught

    Summary: In this episode, Stephen Maher and Adam Bartleman explore the deep-rooted conditioning of men around emotional expression, masculinity, and the importance of integrating the feminine energy to become more complete and resilient individuals. Their discussion emphasizes self-awareness, vulnerability, and societal change for healthier relationships and personal growth. Takeaways: -The societal programming that teaches boys to suppress emotions and how it leads to resentment and violence- The transformative power of embracing feminine qualities to enhance masculinity- Analogies of nature — trees bending in storms — to illustrate emotional flexibility- The impact of toxic masculinity on mental health, relationships, and culture- How to teach strength and resilience through vulnerability and balanced energy- The influence of upbringing, coaches, and societal roles on masculine identity- Recognizing and dismantling gender double standards and hypocrisy- The importance of self-awareness and observing societal behaviors- The collective responsibility in balancing masculine and feminine energies to create societal harmony- Personal stories of unlearning toxic traits and embracing authenticity- Practical ways to foster vulnerability, adaptability, and strength in men and boys Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Hosts and Their Journey02:46 The Impact of Societal Norms on Masculinity07:28 Personal Experiences with Emotional Expression10:26 Embracing the Feminine Within14:34 Observations of Masculinity in Society17:55 The Pain of Suppressed Emotions in Men20:49 Courage in Authenticity and Self-Expression23:00 Embracing the Artist Within25:57 Redefining Strength and Toughness28:55 The Journey of Vulnerability and Resilience33:41 Shared Responsibility in Gender Dynamics37:47 Understanding the Roots of Oppression41:16 Unity in the Human Experience

    46 min

  8. Apr 20

    Oneself - Episode 39 - Allow Us to Reintroduce Ourselves

    Summary: In this episode, hosts Stephen Maher and Adam Bartleman share their personal journeys of growth, self-discovery, and the pursuit of truth. They discuss the importance of internal work, overcoming fear and narcissism, and fostering love and empathy to elevate collective consciousness. Takeaways: Growth is a continual process that requires internal work.Fear is the root of much suffering and narcissism.Love and empathy are the antidotes to fear and division.Inner peace attracts positive relationships and community.Chapters: 00:00Introduction and Context 03:04The Journey of Self-Discovery 06:07The Power of Connection 08:54The Purpose Behind the Podcast 11:54Personal Growth and Transformation 14:51Challenging Toxic Masculinity 17:33Breaking Free from Societal Norms 20:23Finding Meaning in Life 23:25Conclusion and Reflections 23:54Navigating Disillusionment and Finding Freedom 26:39The Journey of Internal Growth 29:48Fear and Narcissism: A Dual Perspective 32:01The Shift from Fear to Love 38:51Recognizing Narcissism in Ourselves 45:53The Power of Internal Change

    48 min
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5
out of 5
8 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
    46
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Stephen Maher & Adam Bartleman