In this episode of The Self Experiment, I sit down with Professor Craig Hassed, a distinguished pioneer in the integration of mindfulness into medical education in Australia.

He joins me to elucidate the profound significance of mindfulness as more than merely a meditative practice; it embodies a holistic approach to living in the present moment.

Throughout our discussion, we delve into the essence of mindfulness, emphasizing its role in fostering awareness of both external stimuli and internal states, thereby enabling individuals to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively.

Professor Hassed elaborates on the transformative potential of mindfulness, particularly in the context of modern challenges such as diminished attention spans and the pervasive influence of technology on our daily lives.

We explore practical strategies for cultivating mindfulness, including the importance of integrating brief moments of reflection into our busy schedules, which can profoundly enhance our overall well-being. As we engage with these concepts, we invite our listeners to consider how mindfulness can serve as a crucial tool for navigating the complexities of contemporary life while fostering resilience and emotional regulation.

Takeaways:

• Professor Craig Hassed has significantly contributed to integrating mindfulness into medical education in Australia.
• Mindfulness is not merely a relaxation technique; it emphasizes living in the present moment and awareness.
• The practice of mindfulness requires consistent effort and cannot be mastered overnight, akin to learning an instrument.
• Awareness of our internal states and responses can help us navigate life's challenges more effectively.
• Avoidance of challenging situations can exacerbate anxiety and hinder personal growth and resilience.
• Mindfulness training can enhance attention and focus, countering the distractions prevalent in modern life.

In this episode of The Self Experiment, I sit down with Dr. Waldron. We ventures into the rich and often overlooked realm of folklore as a reflection of societal anxieties and historical realities.

The discussion is anchored in Ballarat's historical narrative, particularly during the Gold Rush, an epoch characterized by mass migration and cultural amalgamation. Dr. Waldron delineates how the myriad of stories birthed from this period—ranging from ghostly encounters to cautionary tales—serve as conduits for understanding the collective psyche of the community. He articulates that these narratives are not static; they evolve as they are retold, shaped by contemporary cultural contexts and the ongoing need to grapple with the past.

The episode prompts listeners to consider the implications of folklore, particularly how these stories reveal underlying tensions and traumas that persist in society. Dr. Waldron's insights challenge us to recognize the importance of these narratives as tools for reflection, healing, and, ultimately, understanding our shared human experience.

Takeaways:

• In this episode, we explored the intricate relationship between folklore and community identity, emphasizing how stories evolve with cultural contexts.
• The historical significance of Ballarat during the gold rush was discussed, highlighting its multifaceted narratives that intertwine triumph and tragedy.
• We examined the concept of ghost stories serving as reflections of societal traumas, urging listeners to acknowledge the past's impact on the present.
• The discussion included the complex nature of heritage versus history, where personal interpretations shape our understanding of cultural narratives over time.
• The relevance of multicultural influences in shaping Ballarat's folklore was articulated, revealing the rich tapestry of stories arising from diverse communities.
• Lastly, we emphasized the importance of confronting uncomfortable histories, as they continue to resonate within contemporary social issues.

In this episode of The Self Experiment, I sit down with Lance Burdett, former New Zealand Police crisis negotiator, to explore what happens to the human mind and identity under extreme pressure.

Drawing from more than two decades on the frontline, Lance shares what he learned from negotiating in life-and-death situations — not from an operational standpoint, but from a deeply human one. Together, they unpack how fear hijacks the brain, why staying calm is a skill rather than a personality trait, and how empathy and presence can shift even the most volatile moments.

The conversation also moves beyond the uniform. Lance opens up about the personal cost of sustained stress, the slow creep of burnout, and the moment he realised he needed to rebuild himself. He reflects on recovery, vulnerability, and how redefining strength became a turning point in his life.

This episode is an honest exploration of resilience, self-awareness, and what it means to remain human in moments that test us most — a reminder that the real work often begins after the crisis ends.

Links referenced in this episode:

1. warninternational.com