The Positive Mind

Keyword: self-improvement

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Exploring Happiness and Emptiness October 4, 2007

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Alexandra Beller, Nicholas Vreeland
Category: Personal Growth and Awareness

In this episode, host Armand DiMele engages with choreographer Alexandra Beller and Nicholas Vreeland, director of the Tibet Center, to discuss the complex relationship between happiness and emptiness. They explore societal perceptions of happiness, the impact of external validation, and the importance of inner contentment. Beller shares insights from her dance work, while Vreeland emphasizes the significance of self-reflection and the teachings of the Dalai Lama, who will be speaking at Radio City Music Hall. The conversation delves into the nature of happiness, the pitfalls of seeking pleasure, and the transformative power of understanding one’s self.

Exploring Sarcasm July 10, 2007

Host: Armand DiMele
Category: Emotional Intelligence and Communication

In this episode, Armand DiMele delves into the complex nature of sarcasm, examining its psychological implications and effects on relationships. He discusses how sarcasm can serve as a defense mechanism, reflecting anger and insecurity, while also highlighting its connection to intelligence. Through insights from recent neural research, DeMille explains how sarcasm operates in the brain and its potential to harm interpersonal connections. The episode encourages listeners to reflect on their own use of sarcasm and its impact on their lives and relationships.

Mindset April 24, 2007

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Dr. Carol Dweck
Category: Personal Growth and Well-being

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the concept of mindset with Dr. Carol Dweck, author of the influential book ‘Mindset’. They explore the differences between fixed and growth mindsets, particularly in relation to personal development, relationships, and parenting. Dweck explains how a fixed mindset can lead to a fragile ego and avoidance of challenges, while a growth mindset encourages resilience and learning from failures. The conversation also touches on the implications of these mindsets in children, relationships, and even societal issues like bullying. Listeners are encouraged to adopt a growth mindset for a more fulfilling and adaptable life.

Resiliency and Letting Go December 26, 2006

Host: Armand DiMele
Category: Personal Growth and Well-being

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the importance of psychological resiliency, especially during challenging times like the holiday season. He emphasizes the need to manage stress, maintain a positive attitude, and intentionally participate in life. Armand explores how unresolved grudges can weigh us down and offers insights on letting go of past grievances to foster a healthier mindset. Through listener calls, he addresses personal struggles with anger, self-acceptance, and the process of forgiveness, encouraging individuals to release burdens and embrace change as the new year approaches.

Memes and Their Impact on Behavior December 6, 2006

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Roberta Maria Atin
Category: Human and Animal Behavior

In this episode, Armand DiMele and Roberta Maria Ati explore the concept of memes, introduced by Richard Dawkins, as units of cultural information that replicate and influence human behavior. They discuss how memes function similarly to viruses, spreading ideas and emotions among individuals. The hosts delve into the phenomenon of the ‘100th monkey syndrome’ and how behaviors can emerge spontaneously across populations. They also differentiate between hosts and vectors of memes, and introduce the idea of counter-memes that can protect individuals from negative influences. The conversation highlights the importance of awareness in recognizing and managing the memes that shape our thoughts and actions.

Helping You Lead a More Positively Minded Life November 15, 2006

Host: Armand DiMele
Category: Emotional and Social Dynamics

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the concepts of remorse and regret, discussing their impact on our lives and relationships. He delves into the psychology of psychopathy, highlighting the differences between remorse and regret, and how they shape our emotional experiences. Through engaging anecdotes and listener interactions, Armand encourages self-reflection on past choices and the importance of understanding our emotions. The show emphasizes the value of learning from regrets while also promoting a positive mindset for the future.

Kindness August 1, 2006

Host: Armand DiMele
Category: Emotional and Social Dynamics

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the profound concept of kindness, discussing its significance in human relationships and society. He delves into the attributes that contribute to a well-balanced individual, including wisdom, courage, humanity, and justice. Armand emphasizes the importance of being connected to others and how acts of kindness can foster community and belonging. He reflects on personal experiences and the challenges that prevent kindness, such as fear, jealousy, and greed. Throughout the discussion, he encourages listeners to recognize opportunities for kindness in their daily lives and to cultivate a more compassionate world.

Ideas for Managing Stress and Neurogenesis February 1, 2006

Host: Armand DiMeleGuests: Christine Ulrich, Elizabeth Gould, Roberta Maria Atin, Ronald Duman
Category: Mind and Mood Dynamics

In this episode, Armand DiMele discusses the challenges of stress and its impact on our lives. He shares insights on how individuals cope with stress through various means, from exercise to unhealthy habits. Joined by molecular biologist Christine Ulrich, they explore the concept of neurogenesis and how stress can inhibit brain cell growth. The conversation touches on the importance of engaging in new activities to promote mental health and the role of antidepressants in stimulating neurogenesis. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their coping mechanisms and consider healthier alternatives.

Examining Luck January 3, 2006

Host: Armand DiMele
Category: Money and Psychology

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the concept of luck, questioning its existence and significance in our lives. He shares anecdotes, including a conversation with a successful TV producer who attributes his achievements to luck, despite his struggles with depression. Armand discusses the different types of luck, the role of privilege, and how one’s attitude can influence their perception of luck. He emphasizes the importance of being open to new experiences, recognizing opportunities, and maintaining a positive mindset to attract good fortune. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their own experiences with luck and to consider how they can cultivate a more fortunate outlook.

Embracing Resistance for Growth December 22, 2005

Host: Armand DiMele
Category: Personal Growth and Well-being

In this episode, Armand DiMele explores the concept of resistance as a vital part of personal growth and change. He discusses how resistance can manifest in our lives, whether through emotional struggles, financial challenges, or interpersonal relationships. By acknowledging and embracing our resistance, we can better understand ourselves and facilitate meaningful change. The discussion includes insights from callers who share their experiences with resistance, highlighting the importance of recognizing who we are not in order to discover our true selves. Armand encourages listeners to celebrate their resistance as a natural part of the growth process.