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    HARSH TRUTH About Wealth, Power & Happiness: Life Lessons Everybody Learns Too Late | Tai Lopez PT 2

    enDecember 27, 2023
    What role does frame of reference play in wealth creation?
    Why does Tai Lopez emphasize having wise advisors?
    How can exposure to new ideas influence our growth?
    What factors influence the decision to have children?
    How do affluent environments affect one's beliefs about money?

    Podcast Summary

    • Seek wisdom from mentors and advisors, both living and deadExpand your knowledge and perspective by learning from mentors and wise advisors, both past and present

      Our frame of reference, shaped by our social circle, mentors, and even our ancestors, plays a crucial role in our ability to create wealth and make wise decisions. Tai Lopez emphasizes the importance of having a council of wise advisors, both living and dead, to help guide us. He argues that we cannot rely solely on our own abilities or inner resources, but must seek out the knowledge and wisdom of others. Furthermore, our perspective on the world is heavily influenced by our frame of reference, and changing that perspective through exposure to new ideas and people can lead to significant growth and wealth creation. So, instead of focusing solely on our own free will and inner resources, we should look outward, learn from our ancestors, and surround ourselves with wise mentors and advisors.

    • Understanding Perspective's Impact on Our LivesRecognize how our perspectives shape our understanding of wealth, power, and life. Be thoughtful about beliefs and consider the potential consequences of growing up in affluent environments.

      Our perspective, or frame of reference, significantly shapes our understanding of the world. This was emphasized in a conversation about wealth and power, where it was suggested that many wealthy individuals have built their empires through unconventional means. The speaker also highlighted the potential negative effects of growing up in affluent environments. He encouraged thoughtfulness in deciding what beliefs to hold, especially regarding money and power. Another topic touched upon was the approach of some public figures, like Tai Lopez and Tate, in not revealing personal details, such as having children or not. The speaker understood this choice and emphasized the importance of having children and raising them in productive environments. Overall, the conversation underscored the importance of being aware of our frames of reference and the potential impact they have on our lives.

    • Impact of having children on individuals and societyThe decision to have children involves balancing personal growth and societal contribution, considering genetics, mental health, and existential questions.

      The decision to have children goes beyond just population control and is influenced by various factors including genetics, mental health, and personal growth. While some argue that not having children is a narcissistic act, others argue that having children is a way to contribute to the betterment of humanity and the survival of the species. Ultimately, the decision to have children is a complex one that involves considering the impact on both the individual and society as a whole. The speaker also highlights the importance of having stable individuals having children, as certain traits like intelligence and mental health are heritable. Furthermore, he suggests that we should not discount the role of instinct and the drive to continue the human species, even if we grapple with existential questions and the potential insignificance of our existence.

    • Reconnecting with our primitive side for happinessEngage in activities that put us in a state of flow to counteract negative consequences of civilization and reconnect with our primitive selves for happiness

      We may be living in a complex universe, possibly even a reflection or part of a larger one, and it's essential to find simple joys and connect with our primitive side to maintain a balanced and contented life. Civilization, with its advancements, has brought safety but also disconnected us from our primitive selves, leading to negative consequences such as obesity, lack of physical activity, overstimulation, and decreased attention span. To counteract this, finding activities that put us in a state of flow, like farming with horses or playing music, can help us reconnect with our primitive side and find happiness.

    • The Connection Between Wealth and ChildrenSuccessful billionaires often have children before age 30, suggesting a correlation between early parenthood and wealth. Wealth and civilization come with trade-offs, and considering these factors is important when deciding about having children and building wealth.

      Wealth and having children are connected in various ways. The speaker suggests that there is a correlation between having children before the age of 30 and becoming wealthy, as evidenced by many successful billionaires. He also discusses the potential psychological and societal implications of not having children, particularly for women. The speaker also touches upon the idea that wealth and civilization come with their own trade-offs, such as societal unrest and revolts against the wealthy. He advocates for considering these factors when making decisions about having children and building wealth. The speaker's personal experiences and observations, as well as scientific research, support his perspective. Ultimately, the speaker encourages considering the potential benefits and challenges of both having children and accumulating wealth, and making decisions based on one's values and goals.

    • Challenging the belief that having a large family hinders wealth accumulationDespite common belief, having a large family may not hinder wealth accumulation and could potentially contribute to success. Individual thinking, best technology, and strong family relationships can all contribute to entrepreneurial success.

      Having a large family, as demonstrated by some of the world's wealthiest individuals, may not hinder one's ability to accumulate wealth. In fact, it could potentially be correlated with success. This counterintuitive idea challenges the common belief that having children would distract entrepreneurs from building wealth. Bill Gates, for instance, is a prime example, having multiple children young and still becoming one of the most successful businessmen in history. Additionally, the importance of individual thinking and using the best technology and platforms to stay competitive in business was emphasized. Furthermore, the idea of having a strong social media following being compared to having children and the potential benefits of having family members as allies was also discussed. Overall, the conversation highlighted the importance of defying societal expectations and trusting one's own logic and intuition.

    • The Importance of Legacy and Genetics through Families and InstitutionsFamilies and institutions play a crucial role in human history, highlighting the importance of legacy and genetics. Having children aligns with our biological needs and genetic predispositions, leading to personal happiness and fulfillment. Creating a large family can also efficiently pass on genes and potentially impact the world.

      Families and institutions, such as the military and businesses, have been integral parts of human history for thousands of years. The persistence of these institutions highlights the importance of legacy and the impact of genetics. Moreover, having children can lead to personal happiness and fulfillment, as it aligns with our biological needs and genetic predispositions. The creation of a large family, like the one discussed with the millionaire and his surrogates, can also be an efficient way to pass on one's genes and potentially have a significant impact on the world. Ultimately, having children is a way to modulate our neurochemistry and strive for fulfillment, which can help us navigate life's challenges and find meaning.

    • Finding Fulfillment and Connection Beyond ChildrenIndividuals should prioritize skills, community involvement, and personal growth for mental health and well-being, even if not having children. Women may not be genetically predisposed to marriage or multiple partners, and societal norms should not dictate personal choices.

      People should strive to gain skills and contribute to their communities for mental health and well-being, with children and long-term pair bonding being evolutionarily prescribed paths for many. However, if one chooses not to have children, it's crucial to find alternative ways to fulfillment and connection, as our brains are optimized for serving smaller groups. Women, specifically, may not be genetically predisposed to marriage or having many partners, as seen in examples from various cultures throughout history. Ultimately, it's essential to recognize that individual experiences and values differ, and societal norms should not dictate personal choices. If one does not want children, they must find alternative ways to experience deep connections and fulfillment.

    • Factors influencing optimal relationship dynamicsEvolutionary literature suggests that wealth disparity can lead to polygamy, but context and individual risk tolerance play a role in men's reproductive strategies

      The concept of optimal relationship dynamics, such as polygamy or monogamy, is context-dependent and influenced by various factors including societal norms, wealth distribution, and individual risk tolerance. The evolutionary literature suggests that in societies with significant wealth disparity, polygamy may arise, leading to a surplus of men who may not have access to faithful partners. However, this is not a black-and-white issue, as even in hunter-gatherer societies, men might share women, and beta men might still have offspring with alpha men's wives. The key idea is that men's reproductive strategies are influenced by the specific context they live in, with some men being more risk-averse and preferring to focus on one partner, while others might take on multiple partners to increase their genetic diversity. Ultimately, the most important thing is to recognize that there is no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of optimal relationship dynamics.

    • Understanding Risk Aversion in Relationships and Mating StrategiesNature influences our thoughts and desires, leading us to adopt high-risk or low-risk mating strategies. Both strategies can result in similar outcomes.

      In the realm of relationships and mating strategies, it's essential to understand the concept of risk aversion and the role it plays. DiCaprio, representing the high-risk strategy, tries to seduce multiple women, but his approach may lead to less frequent encounters due to physical limitations. Conversely, Danny DeVito, embodying the low-risk strategy, focuses his efforts on the least attractive woman, leading to a more consistent relationship and potentially the same number of offspring. This seemingly counterintuitive dynamic is a result of nature's influence, as our DNA, or the "slave owner," manipulates our thoughts and desires. The hawk-dove game theory concept further illustrates this, as both strategies can result in similar outcomes. Ultimately, it's crucial to recognize that our perceived choices might not be entirely free and that our strategies, much like DiCaprio, De Niro, and Danny DeVito, can cancel each other out in the grand scheme of things.

    • The importance of self-awareness in relationshipsSelf-awareness, recognizing societal pressures, and understanding individual preferences are crucial for forming successful and fulfilling relationships.

      Understanding one's own preferences and limitations in relationships is crucial for finding compatibility with a partner. The speaker shared a personal story about a friend, Jeremy, who went from a long-term marriage to a series of relationships, only to end up married again. Jeremy's experience highlights the importance of self-awareness in relationships. The speaker also touched upon the idea that societal pressures and external influences can sometimes lead individuals to pursue unrealistic or unfulfilling relationship models. He emphasized that while some men may find happiness and fulfillment in marriage, others may not. It's essential to recognize that everyone's experiences and preferences are unique. Furthermore, the speaker discussed the concept of "Frequency Dependent Selection," which suggests that certain individuals are more suited to specific relationship styles. Understanding these preferences can help individuals find partners who are a good fit for their lifestyle. In conclusion, the key takeaway is that self-awareness, understanding societal pressures, and recognizing individual preferences are essential in forming successful and fulfilling relationships.

    • Open-mindedness towards the unexplainedEven skeptics like Tai and Rick can have unexplained experiences that challenge their beliefs and leave a lasting impression

      Even smart and logical individuals like Rick and Tai hold open-minded views towards the unexplained or spiritual aspects of life. Tai shared his belief in the possibility that religious beliefs could be true, despite being a skeptic most of the time. He also shared an experience with a psychic who accurately revealed personal information, leaving him puzzled about how she did it. The psychic advised Tai to seek out a free-spirited, hippie woman, and Tai learned that there is a small percentage of women who experience no jealousy. Despite the uncertainty and skepticism, these experiences have left a lasting impression on Tai and have challenged his beliefs.

    • Understanding personal preferences for compatibilityReflect on your own romantic tendencies and preferences for cooperation, jealousy, aesthetics, and intelligence to increase chances of finding a fulfilling relationship.

      Finding a compatible partner involves understanding your own preferences and needs, which can include factors such as jealousy levels, cooperation, aesthetics, and intelligence. The speaker shares her personal experience of discovering her own romantic tendencies and the importance of being in an environment where she can easily find potential partners who match her preferences. She also emphasizes the need for both aesthetic and intellectual compatibility. It's important to remember that everyone's preferences are unique, and what works for one person may not work for another. The speaker encourages self-reflection and being open to new experiences to increase the chances of finding a fulfilling relationship.

    • Convictions and geography impact personal growth and relationshipsFocus on looks, intelligence, and mental stability in partners for successful long-term mating. Prioritize flexibility, open-mindedness, and adaptation to new environments for personal growth.

      Convictions and geography play significant roles in personal growth and relationships. The speaker believes that having few convictions and living in the right place can lead to a better lifestyle and the ability to attract the desired partner. He also emphasizes the importance of mental stability, suggesting that countries and cultures vary in this regard. According to the speaker, Russia and Eastern Europe have high levels of mental instability, while Brazil is the most mentally stable major country. He encourages those seeking long-term mating to prioritize looks, intelligence, and mental stability in their partners. Overall, the speaker's perspective encourages flexibility, open-mindedness, and a willingness to adapt to new environments in order to improve one's life and relationships.

    • Prioritizing Physical HealthFocus on physical health for overall well-being and fulfilling life. Walk, sprint, jog, slide, jump, and avoid prolonged sitting. Criticize food industry for prioritizing profits over health. Learn from societies that prioritize relationships over marriage.

      Focusing on physical health should be a priority in our lives, even above wealth and relationships. The speaker emphasized that we are 100% genetically ourselves but only 0% of our lives, highlighting the importance of taking care of our bodies. He shared his personal mission to spread good ideas, which led him back to social media to combat the spread of misinformation. He also discussed the importance of long-term mating and learning from societies like Iceland, where marriage is not a priority but relationships last. The speaker criticized the food industry for prioritizing profits over people's health and encouraged prioritizing daily physical activity in a way that aligns with our evolutionary biology. He emphasized the importance of walking, sprinting, jogging, sliding, and jumping, and avoiding activities like sitting at a desk or jogging long distances. By prioritizing physical health, we can improve our overall well-being and live more fulfilling lives.

    • Learning from our past for modern health and wellnessConsider getting enough deep sleep, around 150 minutes per night, and value consuming dairy for athletic performance. Be independent thinkers and make informed decisions based on accurate information and our biological needs.

      Our approach to health and wellness has been influenced by various factors, including scientific theories, cultural norms, and the rise of corporations. However, we can learn from our past as hunter-gatherers and nomads, who lived off the land and consumed a diverse diet. One key element of their lifestyle that we should consider is getting enough deep sleep, around 150 minutes per night. Additionally, there is value in consuming dairy, especially for athletic performance, and we should not be swayed by dietary trends that do not align with our biological needs. Instead, we should strive to become independent thinkers and make informed decisions based on accurate information and a deep understanding of our bodies and our history.

    • Buying Established Businesses: A Low-Risk Strategy for EntrepreneursSuccessful entrepreneurs like Warren Buffett, Mark Zuckerberg, and Elon Musk have gained wealth by acquiring existing businesses, providing instant customer bases, saving resources, and reducing risk.

      Successful entrepreneurs and wealth builders, like Warren Buffett, Mark Zuckerberg, and Elon Musk, have understood the value of acquiring existing businesses instead of starting from scratch. Buying cash-flowing businesses can be a low-risk strategy for entrepreneurs, allowing them to leverage brand recognition and existing customer bases to grow their revenue. Warren Buffett's philosophy of "don't build it if you can buy it" has proven successful for many entrepreneurs. Buying established businesses can save time, resources, and provide an instant customer base. Elon Musk, despite his high-risk reputation, has also made significant acquisitions, such as Twitter, which can lead to exponential growth. However, it's essential to know your risk tolerance and choose acquisitions that align with your capabilities. Buying a big brand like Pier 1 or a cash-flowing business like a fence building company can both be viable options for entrepreneurs looking to expand their portfolio.

    • Building wealth and successful brands in the digital ageIndividuals can leverage personal branding, joint ventures, and social media to create wealth and build successful brands in today's digital age.

      Individuals have the power to create wealth and build successful brands in today's digital age, regardless of their risk tolerance. Elon Musk's ability to leverage his personal brand and diversify through joint ventures serves as an excellent example. The rise of individual brands is the third trend, and people who catch this trend will always be happier. The traditional ways of relying on corporations or governments for success are dying out. To make the most of this trend, individuals can build their personal brand, diversify through joint ventures, and learn how to create wealth from social media. It's never been easier to reach true fans and sell products or services, even with a small following. The speaker's new book, "3 Trends," provides more insights and strategies on how to succeed in this new era.

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    Welcome to Impact Theory with Tom Bilyeu. In this riveting episode, Tom sits down with Arthur Hayes, co-founder of BitMEX, to dive deep into the intricacies of our evolving financial landscape. Together, they explore why people are willing to sacrifice privacy for convenience, the challenges of financial independence, and the implications of impending inflation. Arthur and Tom dissect the potential collapse of the fiat financial system, cryptocurrency as an alternative, and the role of large asset managers. They discuss economic strategies, including government policies, the risks and rewards of various investments, and the impact of geopolitical events on financial stability. From the nuances of Bitcoin and Ethereum to the global trend of de-dollarization and Japan’s economic capacity, this conversation covers it all. Join us as we navigate the uncertainties of the financial markets, the future of digital money, and strategies for navigating high volatility. Whether you're an investor, a crypto enthusiast, or just curious about the future of the global economy, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss. FOLLOW ARTHUR Newsletter - https://cryptohayes.substack.com/ X - https://x.com/CryptoHayes IG - https://www.instagram.com/arthur__hayes/ Website - https://maelstrom.fund CHECK OUT OUR SPONSORS Range Rover: Explore the Range Rover Sport at https://impacttheory.co/landroverpodAugust24 Oracle: Take a free test drive of OCI at https://impacttheory.co/oraclepodAugust24  Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at https://impacttheory.co/shopifyAugust24pod Found Banking: Sign up for Found for FREE today at https://impacttheory.co/FoundITAugustpod AG1: Get 5 free AG1 Travel Packs and a FREE 1 year supply of Vitamin D with your first purchase at https://impacttheory.co/AG1pod. Aura: Secure your digital life with proactive protection for your assets, identity, family, and tech – Go to https://aura.com/impact to start your free two-week trial. Quickbooks: Go to Quickbooks Payroll to get 50% off 3 months HubSpot: Check out HubSpot’s Starter CRM Suite for FREE and get all of the essential tools, education, and support your business needs to grow efficiently! FOLLOW TOM: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tombilyeu/ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tombilyeu?lang=en Twitter: https://twitter.com/tombilyeu YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TomBilyeu What's up, everybody? It's Tom Bilyeu here. If you're serious about leveling up your life, I urge you to check out my new podcast, Tom Bilyeu’s Mindset Playbook —a goldmine of my most impactful episodes on mindset, business, and health. Trust me, your future self will thank you. LISTEN AD FREE + BONUS EPISODES on APPLE PODCASTS: apple.co/impacttheory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Will This Debt Crisis Collapse The US Economy? | Arthur Hayes Mashup PT 1

    Will This Debt Crisis Collapse The US Economy? | Arthur Hayes Mashup PT 1
    Welcome to Impact Theory with Tom Bilyeu. In this riveting episode, Tom sits down with Arthur Hayes, co-founder of BitMEX, to dive deep into the intricacies of our evolving financial landscape. Together, they explore why people are willing to sacrifice privacy for convenience, the challenges of financial independence, and the implications of impending inflation. Arthur and Tom dissect the potential collapse of the fiat financial system, cryptocurrency as an alternative, and the role of large asset managers. They discuss economic strategies, including government policies, the risks and rewards of various investments, and the impact of geopolitical events on financial stability. From the nuances of Bitcoin and Ethereum to the global trend of de-dollarization and Japan’s economic capacity, this conversation covers it all. Join us as we navigate the uncertainties of the financial markets, the future of digital money, and strategies for navigating high volatility. Whether you're an investor, a crypto enthusiast, or just curious about the future of the global economy, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss. FOLLOW ARTHUR Newsletter - https://cryptohayes.substack.com/ X - https://x.com/CryptoHayes IG - https://www.instagram.com/arthur__hayes/ Website - https://maelstrom.fund CHECK OUT OUR SPONSORS Range Rover: Explore the Range Rover Sport at https://impacttheory.co/landroverpodAugust24 Oracle: Take a free test drive of OCI at https://impacttheory.co/oraclepodAugust24  Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at https://impacttheory.co/shopifyAugust24pod Found Banking: Sign up for Found for FREE today at https://impacttheory.co/FoundITAugustpod AG1: Get 5 free AG1 Travel Packs and a FREE 1 year supply of Vitamin D with your first purchase at https://impacttheory.co/AG1pod. Aura: Secure your digital life with proactive protection for your assets, identity, family, and tech – Go to https://aura.com/impact to start your free two-week trial. Quickbooks: Go to Quickbooks Payroll to get 50% off 3 months HubSpot: Check out HubSpot’s Starter CRM Suite for FREE and get all of the essential tools, education, and support your business needs to grow efficiently! FOLLOW TOM: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tombilyeu/ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tombilyeu?lang=en Twitter: https://twitter.com/tombilyeu YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TomBilyeu What's up, everybody? It's Tom Bilyeu here. If you're serious about leveling up your life, I urge you to check out my new podcast, Tom Bilyeu’s Mindset Playbook —a goldmine of my most impactful episodes on mindset, business, and health. Trust me, your future self will thank you. LISTEN AD FREE + BONUS EPISODES on APPLE PODCASTS: apple.co/impacttheory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Why Modern Men Are Lost: The Disturbing Truth | Chris Williamson (Replay)

    Why Modern Men Are Lost: The Disturbing Truth | Chris Williamson (Replay)
    Gender roles and equality continue to be a hot topic of discussion. As women make progress in the workplace, gender pay gaps improve, educational opportunities are getting better as women break glass ceilings. Every action has a reaction and now we’re starting to see unintended problems arise for men. There is a mating crisis stemming from the masculinity crisis that has men and women questioning what it means to be a man. Chris Williamson is a podcaster, YouTuber, and former professional party boy. His podcast Modern Wisdom is the inside journey of him learning out loud from some of the most interesting people on the planet. He’s working on his first book about the mating crisis and joining Tom in this thought provoking conversation about masculinity that doesn’t diminish femininity. With women outperforming men in education and earning more than men in 2023 while also being the gatekeepers of sex men are turning to porn and video games, while women struggle to find male partners that complement their success. Chris is very clear that this important conversation is not about putting the breaks of women, but rather solving how to put the gas on men to become worthy partners that add value, protect and preserve his relationship and family. [Original air date: 2-2-23]. Follow Chris Williamson: Website: https://chriswillx.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChrisWillx Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chriswilliamsonlife/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chriswillx/ Podcast: https://chriswillx.com/podcast/ FOLLOW TOM: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tombilyeu/ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tombilyeu?lang=en Twitter: https://twitter.com/tombilyeu YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TomBilyeu CHECK OUT OUR SPONSORS Range Rover: Explore the Range Rover Sport at https://impacttheory.co/landroverpodAugust24 Oracle: Take a free test drive of OCI at https://impacttheory.co/oraclepodAugust24  Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at https://impacttheory.co/shopifyAugust24pod Found Banking: Sign up for Found for FREE today at https://impacttheory.co/FoundITAugustpod AG1: Get 5 free AG1 Travel Packs and a FREE 1 year supply of Vitamin D with your first purchase at https://impacttheory.co/AG1pod. Aura: Secure your digital life with proactive protection for your assets, identity, family, and tech – Go to https://aura.com/impact to start your free two-week trial. Quickbooks: Go to Quickbooks Payroll to get 50% off 3 months HubSpot: Check out HubSpot’s Starter CRM Suite for FREE and get all of the essential tools, education, and support your business needs to grow efficiently! What's up, everybody? It's Tom Bilyeu here. If you're serious about leveling up your life, I urge you to check out my new podcast, Tom Bilyeu’s Mindset Playbook —a goldmine of my most impactful episodes on mindset, business, and health. Trust me, your future self will thank you. LISTEN AD FREE + BONUS EPISODES on APPLE PODCASTS: apple.co/impacttheory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Everything Wrong with the West | Jordan Peterson PT 2

    Everything Wrong with the West | Jordan Peterson PT 2
    Welcome back to Impact Theory with Tom Bilyeu! Today, we dive into Part 2 of our enlightening conversation with the renowned psychologist and philosopher, Jordan Peterson. In this episode, Tom and Jordan explore the complexities of emerging as a genuine individual and the delicate dance between order and chaos in shaping our identities. They critique the oversimplified notion of self-defined identity and discuss the profound impact of beliefs on emotions and behavior. We delve into some weighty concepts, from the definition of God and the reality of evil to the negotiation of identity through childhood and social structures. Jordan shares thought-provoking insights on the transformative power of narratives, the importance of confronting suffering with courage, and the timeless battle against entropy. SHOWNOTES 00:00 Guidance on life's journey, find inner spirit. 18:00 Alternative truth embedded in tradition and consensus. 28:07 Identity is practical, like a dramatic role. 40:11 Child and adolescent socialization, peer influence importance. 48:33 Book discusses psychoanalysis, reframing self-narrative for success. 54:44 Identity politics based on unalterable, arbitrary characteristics. 01:12:54 Transition from internet dad to theologian analyzed. 01:18:39 Spontaneous speech captures living spirit of exploration. 01:26:17 Church distorts Christ's message to fit society. 01:35:33 Understanding stories shapes our internal incarnation. 01:49:50 Story of Tiamat and Marduk in historical context. 01:55:53 Encourage evolutionary perspective, conquer internal demons heroically. CHECK OUT OUR SPONSORS Range Rover: Explore the Range Rover Sport at https://impacttheory.co/landroverpodAugust24 Oracle: Take a free test drive of OCI at https://impacttheory.co/oraclepodAugust24  Shopify: Sign up for a $1/month trial period at https://impacttheory.co/shopifyAugust24pod Found Banking: Sign up for Found for FREE today at https://impacttheory.co/FoundITAugustpod AG1: Get 5 free AG1 Travel Packs and a FREE 1 year supply of Vitamin D with your first purchase at https://impacttheory.co/AG1pod. Aura: Secure your digital life with proactive protection for your assets, identity, family, and tech – Go to https://aura.com/impact to start your free two-week trial. Quickbooks: Go to Quickbooks Payroll to get 50% off 3 months HubSpot: Check out HubSpot’s Starter CRM Suite for FREE and get all of the essential tools, education, and support your business needs to grow efficiently! FOLLOW TOM: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tombilyeu/ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tombilyeu?lang=en Twitter: https://twitter.com/tombilyeu YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TomBilyeu What's up, everybody? It's Tom Bilyeu here. If you're serious about leveling up your life, I urge you to check out my new podcast, Tom Bilyeu’s Mindset Playbook —a goldmine of my most impactful episodes on mindset, business, and health. Trust me, your future self will thank you. LISTEN AD FREE + BONUS EPISODES on APPLE PODCASTS: apple.co/impacttheory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    Replay: Tom Bilyeu Q&A: Future Tech, Singularity, and Swearing Explained

    Replay: Tom Bilyeu Q&A: Future Tech, Singularity, and Swearing Explained
    Tom Bilyeu and Cindy field questions from the Impact Theory Community including: *Have you considered creating an Impact Theory University Master's Degree Program? *Perhaps along the lines of Singularity University, but online and aiming at a much larger global audience… *What is your number one tool for building rapport with your guests? *When setting up Impact Theory, what was the hardest hurdle that you had to overcome? *In Steven Johnson's book, Where Good Ideas Come From, he speaks about the commonplace book. *Do you journal or write when you read? What it would look like to find the next 1000 Elon Musks. And more. CHECK OUT OUR SPONSORS EightSleep: Head to https://impacttheory.co/EightSleeppodAugust24 and use code IMPACT to get $350 off your Pod 4 Ultra. Netsuite: Head to https://impacttheory.co/NetsuitepodAugust24 for Netsuite’s one-of-a-kind flexible financing program for a few more weeks! Range Rover: Explore the Range Rover Sport at https://impacttheory.co/landroverpodAugust24 Betterhelp: Visit https://impacttheory.co/betterhelppodAugust24 today to get 10% off your first month. AG1: Get 5 free AG1 Travel Packs and a FREE 1 year supply of Vitamin D with your first purchase at https://impacttheory.co/AG1pod. Aura: Secure your digital life with proactive protection for your assets, identity, family, and tech – Go to https://aura.com/impact to start your free two-week trial. Quickbooks: Go to https://impacttheory.co/quickbooksJuly24 to get 50% off 3 months of Quickbooks Payroll! HubSpot: Go to https://impacttheory.co/hubspotpod and use HubSpot’s Starter CRM Suite  for FREE and get all of the essential tools, education, and support your business needs to grow efficiently!  FOLLOW TOM: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tombilyeu/ Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tombilyeu?lang=en Twitter: https://twitter.com/tombilyeu YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TomBilyeu What's up, everybody? It's Tom Bilyeu here. If you're serious about leveling up your life, I urge you to check out my new podcast, Tom Bilyeu’s Mindset Playbook —a goldmine of my most impactful episodes on mindset, business, and health. Trust me, your future self will thank you. LISTEN AD FREE + BONUS EPISODES on APPLE PODCASTS: apple.co/impacttheory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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    EP24: Demystifying Meditation with Sarah McLean

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    In today’s episode, with the help of Sarah McLean, the owner of the McLean Meditation Institute, my personal teacher, and a woman with an unusual and exciting background, we will demystify meditation.  There are so many brands and types of meditation out there; it can be downright confusing. The important thing is to understand a bit, not make it too hard, and, most importantly, do not delay your practice! Without practice, you are missing all the amazing benefits of meditation. 

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    ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

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    Hey there, Alexa Z here! I am so excited and a little nervous because I have Sarah McLean, my meditation teacher, on the line. She is kind enough to take time out of her busy schedule to help me, help you demystify meditation, specifically the different types/brands of meditation.  

    I found Sarah after many years of meditating. I started meditating when I was 17 years old because I had terrible panic attacks. Meditation was a pill for me. I wish I could go back and start again; I would because now I know all the opportunities meditation has provided me, and I would have had a more consistent practice from the start. 

    Alexa: I want to welcome Sarah! Again, I am a little nervous and excited. This will be a fun back and forth conversation. I am also a bit jealous because I know you are in Santa Barbara, California, and the weather is a lot nicer than the rain, drizzle, and cold here in Annapolis, Maryland.  

    Sarah: Well, it is a bit like heaven on earth, sorry to make you jealous. Maybe we can practice Mudita, which is sympathetic joy, I hope you can feel happy for me, that I get to live in Santa Barbara after trying to convince my husband to move here for 17 years. It's great to be here, and Maryland is not too shabby. 

    Alexa: No, it isn't, and knowing that I can visit and take more classes at your new meditation center with you in Santa Barbara, makes me super happy. So let's, get right into it. Let's demystify meditation. The reason why this came to mind is that my students, clients, and even strangers come to me and say they have been studying meditation but have not started their practice. Typically, they say they are waiting for a particular time in there life to begin meditating or that they need to continue to learn about meditation before starting a practice. Sarah, what do you think about all of this. Why is it so confusing?

    Sarah: There are so many different types, categories of meditation 

    • Uses
    • Formal and informal
    • Religious, historical origin
    • Different names in other languages
    • Brand new/Brand names

    I'll share a little bit about my story and how I got into meditation. More importantly, how I realized I did not know anything about meditation.  

    Alexa: Oh, that's perfect!

    Sarah: When I was younger, I was in the military. I wanted to be a spy, but that didn't work out. I wanted to understand the mysteries of life. I did not become a spy; instead, I became a behavioral specialist; that's when I started to learn the mysteries of the mind. I worked with Soldiers who suffered from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorders (PTSD). Back then, we used medication versus meditation. Luckily for me, I was introduced to a body awareness practice. I was sitting outside of a psychiatric hospital, where, unfortunately, that's where many Soldiers who were really suffering would end up. Our whole platoon was sitting out on the lawn when one of the male nurses introduced me to a body scan. He had us all laydown, and he guided us from our head to our toes, allowing us to relax. It was only about 10 minutes. In the end, I realized that I worked with very stressed Soldiers, and I didn't even realize the amount of stress I was carrying. That moment planted a seed in me. After I got out of the Army, I looked into contemplative practices. I spent a lot of time exploring world traditions, looking for the secrets of life. I was on my mountain bike for about nine months and bicycled half-way around the world. I kept looking for the answers. I found it when I was sitting in my room in Georgetown, Washington, D.C. I was on the top of a three-story of a brownstone, learning to meditate using a silent mantra practice, through Transcendental Meditation (TM). Again, there was a contrast on how I felt before I learned, and after I silently repeated a mantra that I had no idea what it meant. It was another "ah-ha" moment.

    A few months after that, I moved to a TM community. I answered the phones and discussed mind, body, health. I was working with Deepak Chopra, who, at the time, no one was familiar with. People were looking for alternative practices and alternative healing. Many people would seek our help because of health reasons such as chemotherapy didn't work, diagnosed with Parkinson's, or depressed. I would ask all who called, "do you meditate?" They would answer with, yes, while I am watching TV, driving to work, or in the shower. I would have to convince them all to learn to meditate because meditation was required to be in the TM community. In 1990, meditation was not a "buzz word." No one talked about mindfulness. People would come to the community, and I would teach them about meditation. Unfortunately, at the time, I thought there was only one way to meditate. Though I had that great experience with the body scan, I was still "drinking the kool-aid" on the brand name of TM. So even when someone told me they were Upasana, insight, or mindfulness, or a different type of meditation, I wouldn't give it much credit.  

    Alexa: I have known you for a long time, and I have heard all your stories, but it is so fun to listen to it in order; it's starting to make so much sense to me. I have a lot of military people in this town, and a lot of military people listen to my podcast. I want everyone to take note that Sarah started her journey with meditation in the Army. How long ago was that?

    Sarah: It was 1980/1981. It was only done by a rouge male nurse, who felt the need to take us aside and try the body awareness practice. Meditation was not mandated to be a part of our training.  

    Alexa: It still isn't mandated, but it is interesting that you initially thought you would become a spy, you ended up learning about body scans. A lot of meditators feel that we can't be a meditator unless I do what Sarah does, go all those places, learn all those things. You taught me through your experiences that I can learn, and I don't have to live in an ashram for years. I am really grateful for that!

    Sarah: You are welcome!

    Alexa: Thank you for doing all the learning for all of us. 

    Sarah: I wasn't the mainstream kind of gal, I didn't want just to get married and have kids, get a job, and retire. My motivation in life was, can I find out the mysteries of this existence? What is it that animates all of creation? I know I am a little weird, but that was what was right for me.  

    I have to fast-forward after working and being in the TM organization for years. I won't go into the whole story, as you can google it. Deepak Chopra and I got kicked out of TM. Getting kicked out of an organization tells me one thing, that is that it is exclusive, not inclusive. How can you get kicked out of a meditation organization?! Well, some ways are to change your guru, changing your job, or changes that some tell you not to, but you do it anyway. I am in good company, so is Deepak Chopra. There is also Ravi Shankar, who does the Art of Living program. Many have been "kicked out" of TM. That was a warning for me, how can TM be a great organization? TM practice is a great practice.

    After I left the TM organization, I went to California with Deepak in 1992/1993. We opened up a health center. He came up with his practice, which was also a silent practice that is not TM. Deepak's practice is called Primordial Sound Meditation. I started to learn that there are a variety of practices available and they all work. You can stare at the sky, a fire, etc. to use as your object of meditation. 

    There are so many types of meditation. 

    • Zen Buddist Tradition
      • paying attention to your breath
      • counting your breath
      • asking yourself questions that stopped the mind
    • walking meditation
    • imagination meditation

    Scientists are researching meditation. I have been a research subject in a few studies. Scientists have a hard time differentiating the different types of meditation. Here are a few ways that I categorize mediation:

    • Focus awareness/concentration meditation
    • Open awareness meditation- Advanced practices
    • Guided meditation
    • Imagery meditation

    When I was in India, I learned more about meditation.  

    • Guru
    • Eat, pray, love
    • Chanting
    • Devotion

    After India, I moved into a Zen Buddist Monastery. I wanted to give up the whole notion of devotion and move into emptiness.  

    I want to share the basics of meditation. You went into meditation because you wanted to get rid of your anxiety. I went into meditation because I had a very stressful childhood, and I also suffered from panic attacks. I wanted to feel that life mattered, I mattered, and a deep sense of love.  

    There are three basic ingredients to any type of meditation. 

    [Sarah discusses in detail the below]

    • Your intention
    • Attention
    • What you are paying attention to:
    • something you hear
      • sound-based meditation
    • something you see
      • visual-based meditation
    • something you sense
      • feeling/emotion
      • moving
      • stillness

    Alexa: My listeners might still be a little unsure of where to start. When you talked about focused awareness and open awareness; I compare it to a camera, am I zooming in or am taking a wide-angled, panorama picture. I want to go back to the three things that you taught me, going back to desire, non-judgemental attitude, and focus. Sarah, I started feeling over-whelmed when I didn't have a focus. When I read your book, Soul-centered: Transform your life in 8 weeks with meditation, before knowing you, you helped me simplify meditation. Thank God, science now says we have a body, a mind, and an energy system, and neuroplasticity does exist. Sarah, I am sure you will agree with me, when science proved that neuroplasticity exists, that's when meditation became popular. Sarah, what are your thoughts?

    Sarah: Meditation is not difficult, but you do have to set yourself up to succeed. When I was writing that book, I tried to deconstruct meditation. First off, you have to recognize that many people will say that you have to clear your mind to meditate. The minute I close my eyes, my default neuro network comes in, I start a monologue with myself, and I can't clear my mind. Instead of clearing your mind, you should interrupt the constant activity of the mind by paying attention to a particular object. Yoga is about the union of subject, object. 

    • Subject: You, your consciousness
    • Object: could be:
    • Breath
    • Body movement
    • Behavior
    • Saint
    • Quality of a Saint

    When I was writing that book, it was a ten-week program. Then this study came out about neuroplasticity, neuro meaning nervous system and the brain, and plasticity meaning plastic or flexibility. In 2012, neuroplasticity studies were showing that with meditation, the thickening of the cortex can happen. Meaning you develop new neuro-pathways, new connections that help you to navigate the world more skillfully. Meditation also changes other parts of your brain. Your amygdala, the reactivity center of the brain, lessens its dominance, so you become much more responsive as the executive function of the neocortex start to become more dominant. This all results in the amygdala, "fight or flight" response becomes less apparent. You gain space between stimulus and response. This shows up in meditation as a state, and overtime shows up as traits in the brain.  

    Meditation is a practice. Find the one you like. I used to be very militant due to my time in the military, and I used to think there is only one way to meditate. So, find a practice you like and get in a routine. The best thing to do is to start meditating as soon as you get up in the morning.  

    There are many studies on the different practices of meditation and their benefits. 

    • mindfulness practice - keeps you more engaged
    • Loving-kindness, gratitude practices - cultivate emotions
    • transcending mental activity - direct experience of YOU

    Alexa: If I decided that all this information makes sense and I want to start meditation when I get up tomorrow morning, what should I do?

    Sarah: 

    Gather yourself, welcoming everything, and resisting nothing. 

    Start with 1-2 minutes of mindfulness.

    • Sit down
    • Close your eyes
    • Set yourself up 
      • Turn your phone off
      • Turn music off 
    • Sit up
    • Close your eye or gaze towards your hands/floor
    • Pay attention/observe environment and body
      • Be in the being and not in the doing

    Then, Body Scan

    Choose a focus

    • Start with breath awareness
    • Relaxation Response
    • Refocus

    It's the nature of your mind to think. Your job is to bring your mind back to your focus. 

    [Meditation Practice]

    It does not matter how many times you have to refocus, be kind to yourself, and let go of expectations.  

    Lastly, be sure to determine how long you are going to meditate. 

    Alexa: I would like to wrap up by saying, yes, there are many types of meditation, but don't worry about it and don't feel like you have to learn them all. What Sarah and I say, "just get up and start meditating." The best thing about research is that you are your own best individual subject. Pick a practice, stick with it, and enjoy it. I used the definition of meditation that comes straight from Sarah, "meditation is a practice, it's old, it's new, it's modern, it's ancient, it's all of those things, but it is a training."

    Links:

    Sarah McLean Bio

    Sarah McLean Books

    Alexa Z Meditates

     

     

     

    EP8: Yoga Nidra 101 - Is it Meditation and Why Should I Do It?

    EP8: Yoga Nidra 101 - Is it Meditation and Why Should I Do It?

    SUMMARY

    In this episode, Alexa talks about Yoga Nidra, a yogic practice that some call the sleep meditation or “the art of doing nothing.” It is an ancient technique that helps relieve stress and improve sleep.

     Alexa explains what to expect in a Yoga Nidra class. She explains how people benefit from this practice and how it is different from a seated meditation. She explains what Sankalpa is and talks about the importance of having intention.

    ---------------

    HIGHLIGHTS

    2:16 A little history of Yoga Nidra

    4:50 What to expect in a Yoga Nidra class

    9:10 Who can benefit?

    13:28 Yoga Nidra and hypnosis

    15:54 What is Sankalpa?

     ---------------

     

    RESOURCES

    Full Blog 

    https://alexazmeditates.com/podcast Learn to Meditate Try Day One FREE www.alexazmeditates.com/free

    Joan Cappiello Livingston (A teacher and a friend - we teach the same Amrit Integrated Method) Her Youtube Station

    Free Yoga Nidra Download  (scroll to middle of the site) https://www.alexazmeditates.com

    More Info on Kamini Desai and Richard Miller

    www.kaminidesai.com

    https://www.irest.org