Fools and Sages

Fools and Sages Podcast

Welcome to the Fools and Sages Podcast, where deep conversations intersect with practical wisdom. Hosted by Brian Lee and Boaz Soifer, this show invites listeners into thought-provoking conversations that illuminate the transformative insights Boaz gained from nearly three decades of dialogue with Brian.

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21 episodes
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Avg 1 hr 9 min
English

Episodes 21

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#117
October 17 · 1 hr 12 min
Our Self, Our Reality and Waking Up to The Ground of Being: Dr. Fred Cooper
In this episode, The Fools talk with Dr. Fred Cooper, a theoretical physicist (and Fellow at The Santa Fe Institute), and advanced practitioner of Tibetan Buddhism. Together they explore the intersections of quantum physics, consciousness, and spiritual practice. Dr. Cooper shares insights on deconstructing the self, the ground of awareness, and how scientific and spiritual worlds converge. So much good stuff in here!
#116
October 10 · 1 hr 3 min
Riding Backwards on an Ox One May Enter the Buddha Hall
In this episode, The Fools explore Brian's unusual personal journey. Rejecting academia as well as the conventional approaches to life and career, he built his world from the ground up. The discussion unfolds the interplay of theory and practice, the limitations of language, and the importance of self-reliance and understanding one's own story. Discover insights into philosophy, self-discovery, and practical living in the desert Southwest from a seasoned thinker. keywords self-reliance, philosophy, personal history, theory and practice, language limitations, pragmatism, self-discovery, autonomy, life philosophy Chapters 00:00 Introduction and overview of episode themes 01:57 Brian's early influences and education 04:00 The significance of leaving college and starting a Kung Fu school 07:01 Exploring the limitations of logic and language 10:04 The relationship between theory and practice in life 15:09 Personal stories and their evolving meaning over time 20:10 Discovering biological roots and family history 25:04 Building a self-reliant lifestyle and land ownership 30:06 The importance of self-reliance and independence 34:54 Reflections on vitality, outdoor living, and self-sufficiency 40:10 Diverse life experiences and their coherence 45:08 The relationship between self and other in development 50:06 The influence of philosophy and teachers on life choices 54:52 The ongoing journey of self-discovery and philosophical understanding
#115
October 3 · 1 hr 1 min
Wheel Within Wheels and The Deep Breath of The Universe
In this episode, The Fools explore the deep connections between seasons, place, consciousness, and the cycles of nature. They discuss how our environment influences our experience and meaning-making, and delve into the metaphysical aspects of reality, cycles, and consciousness. seasons, place, consciousness, cycles, nature, meaning-making, hermeneutics, Tai Chi, Yi Ching, non-local mind Chapters 00:00 Introduction to seasonal cycles and their significance 02:07 The cultural and personal meaning of autumn 04:56 The traditional view of fall as a time of incubation 09:07 Living in harmony with seasonal pulsations 14:57 The metaphysics of cycles and interconnectedness 20:00 Herbal medicine and the design of nature 25:01 The universe as a web of interconnected cycles 29:49 The pulsation of life and energy 34:54 Manifestation and adaptation in natural cycles 40:00 The symbolism of Tai Chi and the Yi Ching 45:07 Consciousness as a fundamental, pervasive force
#114
September 26 · 59 min
Your Very Own Mind/Body Problem: A Philosophical Analysis of Exercise
In this episode, The Fools explore the complex relationship between mind and body, the philosophy of exercise, and how internal practices like Tai Chi and internal martial arts promote holistic health. They discuss the historical, philosophical, and practical aspects of exercise as a means of understanding and balancing our physical and mental selves.
#113
September 19 · 1 hr 30 min
Waking Up From History with Raj Dev: Africa, AI and the Way Forward
In this episode, The Fools talk with Raj Dev, polymath and entrepreneur, who shares his diverse background, his work in sustainable development, and his insights on trust, culture, and the potential of AI to transform organizations and societies. Join us for a deep conversation on how technology and human relationships intersect and shape our future.
#112
September 12 · 1 hr 6 min
I Saw Three Ships Come Sailin' In
In this episode, The Fools explore the nuances of apprenticeship, mentorship, leadership, and the transmission of knowledge and values across generations. They discuss how relationships evolve, the importance of internal mastery, and the parallels between mentorship and parenting. Chapters00:00 Introduction to mentorship and leadership themes 01:48 Transitions and dissolutions in mentor relationships 04:00 Dispositional vs propositional transmission in mentorship 08:06 The role of internal mastery and time body in leadership 12:08 Virtues and character tests of leaders 15:52 The importance of shared values and moral assumptions 21:58 Leadership as an emanation of cultural and moral values 30:06 The parallels between parenting and mentorship 45:08 Why mentor relationships often blow up 50:10 The developmental stages and cultural influences in mentorship 54:58 The importance of a progressive curriculum in mentorship
#111
September 5 · 1 hr 3 min
Old Farmers Never Die, They Just Go To Seed
In this episode, The Fools explore Wendell Berry's life, work, and philosophy, emphasizing the importance of deep connection to land, discipline, and the American relationship with nature. They discuss how living closer to nature fosters a dispositional mindset that influences long-term well-being and environmental stewardship.
#109
August 30 · 1 hr 1 min
Resenting The Benefactor or How Brian Became An Old Korean Man
In this episode, The Fools explore the themes of easy times, individuation, moral force, and the importance of discipline and moral character in personal development and societal health.
#109
August 22 · 1 hr 8 min
How can we be two places at once when we're not anywhere at all?
In this episode, The Fools explore the complex dynamics of organizational collective psychology, the importance of dialogue and synthesis in decision-making, and the influence of American pragmatism on collective behavior. They delve into how ideas live within us, the role of polarities, and the importance of shared visions for effective leadership.
#108
August 15 · 1 hr 17 min
When Bad Therapy Happens to Good People
In this episode, The Fools explore the nature of therapy, mental health, and the importance of internal dispositions and choices in personal growth. They discuss the risks of dependency on external solutions and the value of embodied wisdom and apprenticeship.They also explore the complexities of therapy, consciousness, and the nature of reality, delving into mental models, the mind-body problem, and the role of beliefs in shaping our world. It offers deep insights into understanding and improving therapeutic practices and human understanding.
#107
August 8 · 1 hr 8 min
The Mother Ditch of The Common Good
In this episode, The Fools explore the concept of the common good, its historical roots, (from Aristotle and after) and its implications for modern society and governance. They discuss the not popularly known "repartimiento" system of community water management, traditional in the small fertile valleys, tucked into the harsh desert landscapes of northern New Mexico. They also touch on how our image of ourself and others relates to the common good. They delve into topics like liberalism, community systems, and the importance of land and trust in fostering collective well-being.Chapters00:00Introduction to the episode and main themes01:49Brian shares insights on bird hatchlings and life’s miraculousness03:04Discussion of the hot topic: the common good and political movements03:57Exploring liberalism, post-liberalism, and societal outcomes06:11The concept of self, other, and expanding community09:11Greek and Latin roots of the common good and its moral implications14:03The acequia system in northern New Mexico as a model of community resource sharing17:56The role of the mayordomo and community accountability in water management25:06Comparison of traditional community systems with modern governance32:54The potential of direct democracy and local decision-making44:00The influence of technology, information, and trust in society50:01The importance of land, connection, and local identity in governance01:00:00Reflections on land, land management, and societal balance01:01:57Closing thoughts and future discussions on liberalism and community
#106
August 1 · 59 min
Soulmates or Cellmates? The Enigma of Intimate Relationships
Soulmates or Cellmates? The Enigma of Intimate Relationships 106, In which The Fools explore the complex layers of intimate partnership, archetypes, metaphysical perspectives, and the myth of the Fisher King, delving into how relationships reflect deeper psychological and spiritual truths.
#105
July 25 · 53 min
Whispers from The Universe and The Pachenko Machine of Souls
In this episode, The Fools explore the nature of reality, consciousness, and the interpretive process of meaning. They delve into ontological concepts, the universe's messaging, and how our perceptions shape our understanding of existence.
#104
July 22 · 59 min
Take Your Time: Deconstructing Patience 104
In this episode, The Fools explore the complex nature of patience, impatience, and their relationship with mortality, suffering, and inner peace. They delve into philosophical and psychological insights, offering a nuanced view of how we relate to time, expectations, and self-awareness.Chapters00:00Introduction and Setting the Context02:05The Spiraling Curriculum of Patience and Urgency05:10Youthful Impatience and Its Nuances06:49The Relationship Between Patience and Faith10:14Suffering, Courage, and the Inner Capacity to Endure14:52Expectations, Mortality, and the Nature of Time19:49The Inside-Outside Relationship and External Reality25:11The Cognitive Digestive Process and Assumptions29:57The Role of Spiritual Traditions and Higher Consciousness34:59Balancing Chaos and Order in Creativity and Life39:57The Paradox of Urgency and Acceptance44:48The Ultimate State of Patience and Non-Attachment50:00Faith, Experience, and the Model of Reality55:00The Layers of Spiritual and Philosophical Understanding59:45Conclusion: Embracing the Unexamined Life and Inner Peace
#103
July 11 · 1 hr 12 min
Who Are You? All About Character Typing
In this riveting episode The Fools take a look at different systems for typing personalities, looking at their differing assumptions, goals, strengths and weaknesses. They also put them in historical and philosophical contexts that plug into other F & S topics and episodes. Who are You anyway? And who may you become?
#102
July 9 · 1 hr 52 min
Fanning the Flames of Philosophy's Hearth
In this episode The Fools have the pleasure of speaking with Joshua Beneventi, an anthropologist, philosopher, and the North American Ambassador for Logos Publishing. In this episode, Joshua shares his unique journey of seeking wisdom across various cultures and traditions, and how these experiences have shaped his current work in coaching and consulting.LOGOShttps://logospublishing.com/https://www.instagram.com/logos.publishing/15% off membership discount code: JOSHUALOGOSJOSHUAhttps://www.instagram.com/joshuabeneventi/
#101
June 30 · 1 hr 30 min
Speaking the Tao With Kenneth Leong
In this episode, Ken shares his deep insights into Eastern philosophies like Taoism and Buddhism, exploring their relevance in modern life, the nature of the self, and the importance of a dispositional shift for spiritual growth.From Ken... My book is "The Zen Teachings of Jesus," published by Crossroad Publishing. I have a Taoist group on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/181272202477562. I also have a group called "Stories Behind Chinese Culture": https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=stories%20behind%20chinese%20culture
#100
June 20 · 59 min
Happy Happy Joy Joy 100
In this episode, Happy Happy Joy Joy 100, The Fools explore the multifaceted nature of joy, its associations, and its role in human experience. They delve into philosophical, psychological, and spiritual perspectives, examining how feelings, perceptions, and inner states influence our understanding of joy and well-being.
#99
June 13 · 1 hr 4 min
Thinking About Thinking, with an INTP
In this episode, The Fools explore the importance of breadth versus depth in thinking, organizational evolution, and navigating a rapidly changing world. They discuss mental models, the value of polymathy, and how to adapt to hyper-novelty in society.
#98
June 6 · 1 hr 12 min
Between the Beasts and The Gods
Exploring the metaphysics of ethics, karma, and the nature of good and evil through a deep philosophical conversation. The discussion covers concepts like quantum potential, moral responsibility, and the evolution of consciousness .00:00Exploring Ethics and Karma 01:46The Grounding Problem of Ethics 05:31The Nature of Goodness and Consequences 12:56The Complexity of Human Behavior 19:30Understanding the Good and Its Evolution 30:11The Platonic Distinction of the Good 32:18The Nature of Human Relationships 34:02Moral Relativism and Virtue 35:42Universal Standards of Good 37:42Ethics and Personal Responsibility 39:27The Dilemma of Ethical Intuition 42:01Consequentialism vs. Ethical Intuition 45:36The Structure of Care in Ethics 48:30Caring and Longevity 50:46The Nature of Creation and Love 53:33Compassion as a Path to Happiness 54:47The Ideal State of Morality 58:12Empathy, Mercy, and Identity Resources The Quest for Certainty by John Dewey William James, The Principles of Psychology Heidegger's philosophy on Being and Time MacGilchrist's work on hemispheric asymmetry Confucius and the concept of the superior man

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