What have I let myself in for this week? We're doing a high speed birds-eye view of the major philosophies from the pre-Socratic philosophers like Thales and Pythagoras, through the middle ages, into the renaissance and enlightenment, and all the way up to the contemporary philosophers of the 21st century. We'll look at how philosophy has changed over the years, and how it's both influenced the society of the times and been influenced by it. And we touch on a bit of contemporary philosophy, and how our zeitgeist has altered how we think about our world. ? Subscribe to The Observing I for more insights into philosophy, psychology, and the human experience. ? If you like what you hear, there's a book I wrote that goes alongside the podcast called "The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life". You can buy it on Amazon at https://www.amazon.co.uk/Observing-Guide-Living-More-Authentic-ebook/dp/B0D54FV5D5/ ?️ Listen to the podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcasting app. Much love, David

The Observing I

Every major philosophical ideology in 30 minutes

In today's episode, we take a deep dive into the darker side of self-help culture. While the self-help industry promises growth, success, and happiness, it can also set unrealistic expectations, create toxic perfectionism, and leave us feeling more isolated than empowered. We’ll explore the false promise of quick fixes, the overwhelming pressure to constantly improve, and the commercialization of personal growth. I also dive into the mental health risks of self-help, including the dangers of toxic positivity and the emotional toll of false hope. Join me as we discuss how to engage with self-help mindfully—balancing hope with realism and understanding the value of seeking support, embracing life’s messiness, and accepting yourself along the way. If you’ve ever felt disillusioned by self-help’s grand promises, this episode offers a more grounded perspective on how to navigate personal growth without falling into its traps. ? Subscribe to The Observing I for more insights into philosophy, psychology, and the human experience. ? Don't forget, we've been nominated in the Hubhopper 2024 Podcast Awards for the "Best in Health and Wellness" category. You can cast your vote for us here - https://community.hubhopper.com/best-health-and-wellness ? If you like what you hear, there's a book I wrote that goes alongside the podcast called "The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life". You can buy it on Amazon at https://www.amazon.co.uk/Observing-Guide-Living-More-Authentic-ebook/dp/B0D54FV5D5/ ?️ Listen to the podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcasting app. Much love, David

The Hidden Dangers of the Self Help Industry

In this week's episode, we're exploring a rather dramatic and powerful question -"Are you the product of your mind?" We'll look at the relationship between thoughts, identity, and self-perception, and the contrasts of Western philosophies, like Descartes' "I think, therefore I am," with Eastern views, such as Buddhism's concept of the self as an illusion. We'll discuss how our minds filter sensory data and shape our realities, often trapping us in limiting narratives, and the influence that our unconscious mind has on the nature of free will. Lastly, we'll look at mindfulness as a tool to observe thoughts without attachment, and how that can create a deeper understanding of the self beyond our mental constructs. Don't forget, we've been nominated in the Hubhopper 2024 Podcast Awards for the "Best in Health and Wellness" category. You can cast your vote for us here - https://community.hubhopper.com/best-health-and-wellness If you like what you hear, there's a book I wrote that goes alongside the podcast called "The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life". You can buy it on Amazon at https://www.amazon.co.uk/Observing-Guide-Living-More-Authentic-ebook/dp/B0D54FV5D5/ Much love, David

Are you just a product of your mind?

In this episode of The Observing I, we’re diving deep into the darker side of human nature—what psychologists call the Dark Tetrad. We’ll break down the four traits that make up this shadowy quartet: Narcissism, Machiavellianism, Psychopathy, and Sadism. But we’re not just here to talk theory—we’ll explore how these traits show up in real life, from personal relationships to workplace dynamics, and offer practical strategies for protecting yourself when you come across someone who thrives on manipulation, control, or emotional detachment. If you like what you hear, there's a book I wrote that goes alongside the podcast called "The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life". You can buy it on Amazon at https://www.amazon.co.uk/Observing-Guide-Living-More-Authentic-ebook/dp/B0D54FV5D5/ Much love, David

Inside the Dark Tetrad: Power. Manipulation, and Pain

 In this episode of The Observing I, we explore the complexities of navigating relationships with narcissists, whether they’re romantic partners, family members, or colleagues. Narcissists can leave us feeling emotionally drained, manipulated, and doubting our own reality - but it doesn’t have to be this way. Join me as we dive deep into understanding narcissistic behaviour, the emotional toll it can take, and most importantly, practical strategies to protect your mental health. We’ll cover setting boundaries, avoiding power struggles, and balancing empathy with self-care. Drawing on philosophical insights like non-attachment and therapeutic approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), this episode offers both practical advice and deeper reflections to help you regain control and emotional resilience. And, of course, there's the usual sponsor, which is my book "The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life". You can buy it on Amazon here - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Observing-Guide-Living-More-Authentic-ebook/dp/B0D54FV5D5/ Much love, David

Navigating Life with a Narcissist: Essential Strategies

This is not the full episode for this week - don&#39;t panic. Since we started back in January 2023, we&#39;ve released an episode (most) Fridays. However, the episodes back then were 15 minutes long, then they crept up to 30 minutes. Now they&#39;re sitting at around an hour. That takes more time, more research, more editing. More of all the things, as I&#39;m sure you can appreciate. With the burden of having to actually earn money in the real world, I&#39;m finding it a challenge to get the episodes out on Friday now without having to pull 3am finishes on a Friday morning. So, for the sake of my sanity, and the fact that I&#39;m in my forties now and pulling all nighters is a lot harder than it used to be, I&#39;m pushing the release date for the epsiodes to Sunday rather than Friday. Starting tis week, episode 084 "Navigating Life with a Narcissist: Essential Strategies" will be released on Sunday 29th September, and every Sunday going forwards. In the interim, here is the story of the Greek myth of Narcissus and Echo, because it felt in theme with the content of the main episode coming out on Sunday. Much love, David

BONUS: The story of Narcissus

In this episode, we explore the ancient wisdom of wu wei—the art of non-striving, as taught by Lao Tzu in the Tao Te Ching. Discover how this philosophy invites us to let go of the need to control and force outcomes, and instead, flow with life’s natural rhythms. We’ll dive into how wu wei applies to modern challenges like burnout, creativity, and mindfulness, and discuss the powerful psychological benefits of surrender and trust. If you’re looking for more ease, clarity, and peace in your life, this episode offers insights and practical tools to help you stop pushing so hard and start living with more flow. And, of course, this episode is sponsored by my book "The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life", which you can buy on Amazon here: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Observing-Guide-Living-More-Authentic/dp/B0D67CFVVK/ Much love, David

Stop Trying so Hard: Lao Tzu and the art of Wu Wei

In this episode, we explore the paradoxical relationship between dualism and non-dualism in spiritual thought, examining how these seemingly opposing perspectives coexist and shape our understanding of reality. We’ll dive into their philosophical roots, psychological impact, and modern relevance in areas like politics, technology, and mental health. I’ll also share personal reflections on how these concepts play out in daily life and discuss spiritual practices that help bridge the gap between them. Join me as we explore how embracing both duality and unity can lead to deeper peace, connection, and compassion. This episode is, once again, sponsored by my book ⁠⁠⁠The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life⁠⁠⁠, which is available now on Kindle and in paperback from Amazon. Much love,David

The Ultimate Balance: Dualism vs. Non-Dualism

In today&#39;s episode, we explore the ways that suffering shapes our lives, identities, and connections with others. From philosophical perspectives like existentialism and Stoicism to modern challenges such as social injustice, mental health, and the impact of technology, we examine why pain is an inevitable part of the human experience. We also discuss how suffering can inspire creativity, foster empathy, and even lead to personal growth. Join us on this journey to discover how we can find meaning, resilience, and purpose in our darkest moments. This episode is sponsored by my book ⁠⁠The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life⁠⁠, available now on Kindle and in paperback from Amazon. Much love,David

Why Our Pain Defines Us: A Philosophical Look at Suffering

Psychological warfare isn’t about guns, tanks, or bombs. It’s about winning the war for the mind. It’s the art of influencing thoughts, emotions, and behaviours using tactics like propaganda, misinformation, and emotional manipulation. In this episode, we&#39;ll explore what psychological warfare is, why it&#39;s so effective, the ethical implications of using it, and some tools and techniques that you can try at home to keep you safe from the agents of MK Ultra. This episode is sponsored by my book ⁠The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life⁠, available now on Kindle and in paperback from Amazon. Much love, David

The War for Your Mind: Unravelling Psychological Warfare

 Freud is a name that almost everyone recognizes, even if they don’t know much about psychology. He’s been called the father of psychoanalysis, the man who brought the unconscious mind to the forefront of our understanding of human behaviour. His ideas about dreams, childhood development, and the structure of the mind have left an indelible mark not just on psychology, but on our culture as a whole. In this episode, we’re going to take a comprehensive look at Freud’s life and work, but we’re not just going to rehash the textbook basics. Instead, we’re going to explore what made Freud such a towering figure in his time, how his theories were shaped by his personal experiences take a deep dive into those theories, and look at the modern criticisms of his work. This episode is sponsored by my book ⁠The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life⁠, available now on Kindle and in paperback from Amazon. Much love,David

Sigmund Freud, Psychoanalysis, and why you want to have sex with your mother

In today&#39;s episode, we&#39;re getting down into it with Carl Jung. We go on a deep exploration into his psychology, from dream interpretation, the power of the collective unconscious, and how we can relate to the symbolism of Jungian archetypes. We&#39;ll also take a look at how Jung&#39;s influence persists today, and some of the criticisms and controversies surrounding his ideas. Please also excuse the background crows. This episode is sponsored by my book ⁠The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life⁠, available now on Kindle and in paperback from Amazon. Much love,David

Decoding Carl Jung: Dreams, Archetypes, and the Collective Unconscious

In today&#39;s episode, we delve into the mysterious intersections between the occult and modern psychology. From the pioneering theories of Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung to the emergence of transpersonal psychology in the 1960s, we explore how ancient mystical traditions have shaped contemporary psychological practices. Join us as we discuss compelling case studies, examine both the support and criticism of these influences, and uncover the ways in which the wisdom of the occult continues to offer valuable insights and tools for understanding and healing the human mind. This episode is sponsored by my book The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life, available now on Kindle and in paperback from Amazon. Much love,David

Occultism's influence on Modern Psychology

In today's episode, we embark on a chilling journey into the life and mind of the writer H.P. Lovecraft. We'll explore his personal story and the philosophies behind his writng. We'll look at the psychological methodologies employed in his work, and how these techniques impact us as the reader. Finally, we get a taste of Lovecraft's cosmic horror as I read his short story "Dagon".This episode is sponsored by my book The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life, available now on Kindle and in paperback from Amazon.Much love,David

Cosmic Horror: The Psychology of H.P. Lovecraft

In this episode, we're going to peel back the layers of consumerism. We'll be lookking at its historical roots, exploring the psychology behind our behaviour in relation to it, the role that advertising and media plays in our consumer culture, and the impact that it can have on our mental health.I'll also be looking at ways that we can break free from the cycle, and be more considered in our approach to materialism.This episode is sponsored by my book The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life, available now on Kindle and in paperback from Amazon.Much love,David

The Delusional Psychology of Consumerism

A podcast about philosophy, psychology, and the human experience. Pirate radio for the mind. New episode each Friday.