Arash's World Podcast

Squeeze the Juice and Just Sit with Elephants: Lessons in Humility from the African Bush with Business Professor Dr. Ron Dulek

In this episode, I have the great pleasure of speaking with University of Alabama Professor and Author of Sitting with Elephants: Lessons in Humility from the African Bush Dr. Ron Dulek who shares how a life devoted to teaching led him to an unexpected second classroom: the African Bush! In fact, he recounts how a desire to “squeeze the juice” out of life pushed him and his wife to buy a remote home bordering Kruger National Park in South Africa, trading comfort and routine for humility, presence, and risk.

What started off as a sabbatical-style adventure evolves into a profound, years-long relationship with a wild elephant matriarch. Guided by local safari experts, Ron learned the “language” of elephants including how to approach without threat, how to read fear and trust, and how humility, not dominance, determines safety. Over time, this careful respect leads to extraordinary moments of bonding: mock charges that end in calm recognition, an elephant falling asleep nearby as a sign of trust, and repeated visits across years that defy easy explanation.

The relationship, however, is not romanticized. Ron confronts the limits of closeness with wild animals when safety, boundaries, and the “fence of respect” become essential both in the bush and in human leadership. Drawing parallels between elephants, classrooms, and corporate life, he reflects on how leaders can be close without crossing lines, and why humility is a prerequisite for trust and mutual respect.

 

The Fix Code Magic in Motion: Stacey Nye on Fast Release of Trauma via the Rewriting of the Unconscious Mind

In this episode, I have the pleasure of talking to Stacey Nye, Co‑Creator of The Fix Code, for a deep and personal conversation about healing, consciousness, and lasting inner change. Stacey shares her journey from personal crisis to co‑creating a rapid, intuitive self‑healing method alongside her business partner, Daniel Flear, whose decades of study in hypnotherapy and NLP with a pivotal spiritual experience sparked the creation of the Fix Code.

Together, they explore how unconscious “parasitic programs” formed through past experiences drive anxiety, depression, fear, and even physical discomfort. The Fix Code works by identifying and extracting the core emotional charge, often a single word or feeling, and disconnecting it from memories and neural pathways. Rather than reliving trauma, the process shifts how people feel about their experiences, often in just minutes, creating clarity, emotional freedom, and a renewed sense of presence.

In our conversation, we weave together personal stories, practical examples, and philosophical insights, touching on fate, self‑awareness, leadership, and the idea that healing is not a one‑time event but an ongoing journey and process. However, Stacey emphasizes empowerment and asserts that the Fix Code is a self‑help tool anyone can learn and use, from parents and athletes to CEOs, and that it helps and supports people to “look for the good as it’s everywhere” once the inner noise quiets down.

 

Sketchbook of Hope, Art, and Dialogue: Inside Room’s Psychoanalytic Multidisciplinary Magazine with Hattie Myers and Aneta Stojnić

In this episode, I have the great pleasure of talking to Hattie Myers and Aneta Stojnić, two key figures behind “Room: A Sketchbook for Analytic Action,” a psychoanalytic magazine and community as well as a recipient of the prestigious Sigourney Award.

Our conversation explores the origins of “Room,” which was founded after the 2016 U.S. presidential election to provide a space for analysts to think, write, and connect during times of crisis. Over nearly a decade, Room has grown into an international ecosystem, spanning 160 countries and embracing a multidisciplinary approach that includes poetry, literature, art, and psychoanalysis.

The editorial process is unique: there are no preset themes, and each issue emerges organically from community submissions, reflecting poignant and accessible ideas. Moreover, Room is committed to open access, supporting emerging voices, especially women in challenging circumstances, through initiatives like “We Are the Light.” The magazine, podcasts, and roundtables foster dialogue, hope, and action, aiming to bring psychoanalysis out of the consulting room and into the world, underscoring both reflection and real-world change.

 

Art Monsters and the Balance of Genius: The Quest for Creative Life with Women Among Monuments Author Kasia Van Schaik

In this episode, I have the great pleasure of speaking with Kasia Van Schaik, a writer, professor, and artist, discusses the central themes of her book/memoir “Women among Monuments: Solitude, Permission, and the Pursuit of Female Genius.” We explore what it means to live a creative life, especially as a woman, and the ongoing search for permission both societal and self-given to pursue artistic fulfillment. We touch on the historical invisibility of women among cultural “monuments,” referencing literary figures like Virginia Woolf, which highlights the persistent relevance of these questions today.

We also delve into the concept of the “art monster” - artists who prioritize their work above all else, sometimes at the expense of others - and examine the tension between creative ambition and personal happiness. Kasia reflects on the importance of balancing solitude and community for creativity, the role of memory and memoir in shaping narrative, and the evolving language around gender and genius.

We conclude with insights on self-permission, the value of boundaries, and the subjective nature of genius, encouraging everyone to embrace their creative impulses without waiting for external validation and to follow their heart and dreams regardless.

The Power of Vulnerability, Boundaries & Forgiveness: The Journey of Feeling Truly Fine with Christian Life Coach Darla Nelson

In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Darla Nelson, a Christian life coach and the author of “I’m Fine. Really?: Moving from Stress and Anxiety to Peace and Calm.” We discuss how the phrase “I’m fine” often masks deeper struggles, and on the importance of being honest with ourselves and others about our true feelings. Furthermore, we explore vulnerability, especially in close relationships, and recognize that sharing our stories can create meaningful connections and reduce stress.

Although being vulnerable can be difficult, particularly for men, opening up to others is important for growth. In addition, setting boundaries and practicing forgiveness are essential for our well-being, and we are responsible for our responses to life’s events even when circumstances are beyond our control.

The power of gratitude and the need to shift from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance can also increase to a more fulfilling life. This can be achieved by small, intentional changes, such as practicing self-kindness and embracing gradual progress and can lead to greater peace and authenticity. In fact, health is multidimensional, and nurturing our emotional and spiritual selves is just as important as physical exercise.

As we consider and appreciate the value of learning from life’s challenges, and as we continue being honest with ourselves and allow ourselves to make mistakes, we foster resilience, deeper connections, and a more compassionate approach to ourselves and others and feel truly “fine” in our skin.

 

Beyond Myths and Lies Toward Truth and Hope: On Compassionate Person-Centered Care for Alzheimer’s and Dementia with Lisa Skinner

In this episode, I have the great pleasure of speaking with behavioral expert, certified dementia practitioner and trainer Lisa Skinner about her book “Truth, Lies, and Alzheimer’s: Its Secret Faces.”  We dive into the complexities of Alzheimer’s and dementia, challenging the common myths that surround these conditions while also acknowledging that Alzheimer’s and dementia are often misunderstood, with many people, even professionals, mistakenly believing they are just a normal part of aging (they are not).

That said, we also touch upon the differences between normal forgetfulness and signs and symptoms of dementia and note that occasional memory lapses are indeed a normal part of aging and should not be a cause for concern. However, when memory issues become frequent and start to impact daily life, it would be recommended to seek help.

Lisa explains that dementia is caused by over 100 different brain diseases but that a diagnosis does not mean life is over. We explore how people living with dementia, as well as their families and caregivers, can still find meaning, purpose, and joy within a diagnosis. We can help our loved ones live meaningful lives by focusing on person-centered care, validating their experiences, and not simply trying to “correct” them. When we focus on the individual rather than just the disease, we can help people live well for many years, provided we have the right knowledge, skills, and strategies.

When it comes to risks, there are significant differences between modifiable and nonmodifiable factors.  While we cannot change our age or genetics, we can reduce our own risk by managing health factors like heart disease, sleep, and diet. Most importantly, with the right approach, there is hope and quality of life for those affected by dementia as we can help them live meaningful lives while at the same time supporting each other through the challenges and uncertainties that come with these difficult conditions.

 

Real Food, Real Healing with Kindness as Medicine: Transforming Both Pet and Human Health with Dr. Doug Coward

In this episode, I have the great pleasure of speaking with veterinarian, author, surfer, and lifelong wellness advocate Dr. Doug Coward as he shares his remarkable journey from wildlife medicine to holistic pet care. We talk about his book, Healing Both Ends of the Leash, and how real food, compassion, and individualized care can transform the health of both pets and their humans.

In fact, a simple shift from processed food and kibble to fresh, whole ingredients can lead to dramatic recoveries and healing in animals and their human counterparts in a number of diseases and health conditions, including autoimmune disorders.

We also explore the deep connection and symbiosis between people and their pets, highlighting how kindness and attention to individuality are powerful forms of medicine. Doug shares stories of families who embraced holistic nutrition, explains the science behind kindness affecting our DNA, and touches upon the parallels between parenting children and raising animals.

From the challenges of training stubborn breeds to the joy of seeing pets thrive, this is more than a guide for pet lovers; it’s a call to rethink health for all and to keep in mind that wellness is a shared journey and one that benefits sentient beings on both ends of the leash.

 

From Kierkegaard and Tolstoy to Freud and Winnicott: Psychoanalysis and the Magic of Emotional Truths with Sigourney Award Recipient Siri Hustvedt

In this podcast, I have the great pleasure of speaking with Siri Hustvedt, a best-selling writer, novelist, and scholar who has received the 2025 Sigourney Award for her innovative and outstanding contributions to the field of psychoanalysis.

We explore how psychoanalytic concepts, particularly those of Sigmund Freud and D.W. Winnicott, inform Hustvedt's work and personal life as well as the role of therapy in personal transformation, the importance of narrative in psychiatry, and the limitations of the biomedical model in treating mental health.

We also talk literature and philosophy, and the profound influence fiction can have on our lives as well as the tremendous impact Danish existential philosopher Kierkegaard has had on both of our lives. Siri draws a distinct line between articulating ideas versus living and embodying truths and how this can lead to an uplifting and liberating experience.

Finally, Siri discusses her approach to teaching psychiatric residents through literature and narrative, emphasizing how patient stories and doctors' personal experiences influence treatment outcomes. She highlights the importance of considering patients' holistic experiences and how narrative-based approaches can offer more comprehensive treatment and be fundamental for healing and growth.

 

Shakespeare, Open Dialogue, Cultural Diversity and the Sigourney Award: The Multilingual Journey of Caliban and Latin American Psychoanalysis

In this episode, I have the great pleasure of speaking with Silvana Rea, associate editor of the Latin American psychoanalytic journal Caliban, which has been one of the recipients of the prestigious 2025 Sigourney Award. As Silvana explains the journal’s mission is to advance Latin American psychoanalytic thought through a multilingual platform balancing Portuguese and Spanish and embracing diverse cultural perspectives.

In fact, themes for each edition emerge from collaborative brainstorming whereas the journal’s “Caliban on Tour” initiative brings psychoanalytic ideas to public forums and cultural institutions and crosses borders and transcends boundaries. The journal’s name “Caliban” inspired by Shakespeare symbolizes resistance to colonial influences, and upcoming editions focus on topics such as loss and emptiness.

Silvana highlights Caliban’s commitment to disseminating psychoanalytic thought in Spanish, Portuguese, and English, emphasizing the unique cultural and historical backgrounds of Latin American countries, especially Brazil’s distinct colonial and indigenous influences. For instance, the current edition explores the Brazilian concept of “saudade” (nostalgia or homesickness), featuring contributions from historians and a discussion of “banzo,” a disease affecting enslaved people in Brazil.

All in all, the journal welcomes contributions from various fields, hence reflecting a kaleidoscope of perspectives with the aim of fostering dialogue and understanding through psychoanalysis both in traditional settings as well as within and from open and truly diverse spaces.

 

Hallmark with a Twist: S. A. Stolin on Love, Hope, Healing and The Doc’s Christmas Miracle

In this episode, I have the great pleasure of talking with bestselling author and forensic psychologist S. A. Stolin who shares insights into her personal journey and creative process as an author. At 82, Stolin emphasizes the importance of lifelong contribution and transformation, drawing from her experiences as an actress, psychologist, and writer.

Moreover, she discusses how her background in forensic psychology informs her character development, highlighting the value of communication and emotional depth in relationships. We also touch on themes of self-acceptance, healing through creativity, and the significance of embracing new opportunities at any age.

S. A. Stolin’s latest book is The Doc’s Christmas Miracle and it is basically a Hallmark romance but with a twist. The story follows two doctors who must collaborate to save a struggling clinic, leading to both romantic and professional challenges. A unique element is the “memory machine,” which not only aids Alzheimer’s patients but also helps solve a mystery, adding a suspenseful twist to the romance.

Finally, Stolin reflects on the transformative power of hope, miracles, and partnership, noting that the book aims to bring joy and comfort to readers, especially during the holiday season. We conclude with thoughts on authenticity, trust, and the evolving nature of storytelling in contemporary life.