(41) Phil Phails @ philosophy with Grant PottsPhilosophy Book Club series #8Book: Philosophy's Big Questions: Comparing Buddhist and Western ApproachesQuestion: How Much Is Enough? Greed, Prosperity, and the Economic Problem of Happiness—a Comparative PerspectiveIn this insightful episode of Phil Phails at Philosophy Book Club, Phil and Grant Potts dive deep into Chapter 7 of Philosophy's Big Questions: Comparing Buddhist and Western Approaches edited by Steven M. Emmanuel. Titled "How Much Is Enough? Greed, Prosperity, and the Economic Problem of Happiness—a Comparative Perspective," this chapter sparks a thought-provoking discussion about the role of greed in our pursuit of happiness and prosperity.Phil and Grant explore the contrasting perspectives of Buddhism and Western philosophy on how much material wealth is truly necessary for a fulfilling life. They reflect on the Buddhist teachings of detachment and the inherent challenges of grasping and craving, alongside the Western emphasis on economic success and its promise of happiness. The conversation delves into the nature of greed, attachment, and how both philosophies offer tools for overcoming the desire for more, fostering a sense of contentment and self-awareness. Along the way, personal anecdotes and lighthearted reflections add depth and relatability to these profound philosophical ideas.Whether you're interested in philosophy, self-compassion, or finding a balanced approach to prosperity, this episode provides a rich exploration of how greed shapes our worldviews and personal lives.#PhilPhails #PhilosophyBookClub #Greed #Buddhism #WesternPhilosophy #Happiness #EconomicProsperity #Attachment #SelfCompassion #MindBodySpirit #Philosophy #Materialism #Grasping #Detachment #WellBeingAbout Grant PottsGrant Potts is a distinguished faculty member at Austin Community College, specializing in Philosophy, Religion, and Humanities. Trained primarily as a scholar of religion, Grant is also a dedicated philosopher and curriculum developer, committed to promoting liberal education through the Great Question Foundation to benefit community college students of all disciplines. Outside the academic sphere, he is a passionate gardener, an enthusiastic hiker and cyclist, and an ardent tabletop roleplaying game enthusiast, delighting in adventures with friends and family in classics like Dungeons and Dragons as well as newer games like Coriolis and Forbidden Lands.About Phillip Jones👨‍👧‍👧 Single dad | 🧠 Neurodivergent & Proud | 🛤️ Path SeekerAfter a lifetime of personal growth—through self-help, therapy, and endless learning—I'm embracing my unique journey. No more chasing 'normal.' Here to celebrate the quirks, the trials, and the joys of being authentically me. 🌟Leaving the software world behind, I'm forging a new trail with "Phil Phails," a show that revels in the messiness of life and learning. Catch my latest adventures and dad moments on Austin Public and YouTube. Let’s redefine success together. #PhilPhails 🎬The Fool's journey is a tapestry of learning, woven with threads of naivety and the vibrant colors of experience. Each step is a dance between innocence and wisdom, a transformation that beckons the curious souls to witness the unfolding of a human in bloom. Embrace this odyssey with open arms, for the path of the unknowing is a canvas for growth, and every traveler a masterpiece in progress.👉 Follow me on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phil_phails/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/philphails/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@philphails Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/PhilPhails4uReddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/philphails/Twitter: https://twitter.com/philphails🔔 Subscribe and hit the bell to get notified about new videos: https://www.youtube.com/@PhilPhails

In Part 2 of Phil Phails @ Balance with Mary Richardson-Perez, we dive into Mary's incredible life story—from early challenges to finding peace through yoga and meditation. Mary opens up about the lessons she's learned, the transformative power of mindfulness, and how Studio Satya became a sanctuary for the Austin community. Plus, we have some fun with Tarot! Mary gives an insightful reading and shares how Tarot can help unlock inner wisdom. About Mary Richardson-PerezMary has always had a passion for new experiences and places, given that her family was quite nomadic before settling in Nashville, TN. Early in her yogic journey, Mary traveled to India twice for several months at a time to immerse herself in the practice and culture. In this birthplace of yoga, Mary learned Pattabhi Jois’ Ashtanga Yoga, and explored pranayama and shat kriya practices under the guidance of her esteemed teacher, V.K. Shesadre.Now with 23 years of practice and over 12,000 hours of teaching experience, she has honed an approach that effortlessly integrates lightheartedness and depth, exploring yogic philosophy and the ancient sacred traditions of self-discovery and realization. Along the way, she’s deepened her training by studying with knowledgeable teachers from very diverse traditions. She completed her teacher training at the Living Yoga Program and finished a BA at the University of Texas focusing on Studio Art (painting). She continued her studies at UT in the South Asian Studies Department focusing on Indian Philosophy/Culture and Sanskrit.Mary is a steady and gentle guide and is actively involved in workshops, teacher training, private lessons and advanced trainings. Given her passion for the history and traditions of yoga, she met regularly with a professor, Stephen Phillips, for a few years after her academic studies to study such texts as the Upanishads, and to continue her studies in Sanskrit.Currently, Mary is enrolled in a social work graduate program, and intends to complete the clinical hours required to be a LCSW. Mary has focused most of her graduate work on utilizing or researching meditation, somatic practices and various other yoga related techniques as interventions for anxiety, depression and to assist in nervous system regulation. Given Mary's desire to be of service, she blends a reverence for the ancient traditions of yoga, with an informed modern-day approach, to support each practitioner where they are at. 👉 Find Mary:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studio_satya_austin/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StudioSatyaAustinStudio Satya: https://www.studiosatya.com/email: mary@studiosatya.comAbout Phillip Jones👨‍👧‍👧 Single dad | 🧠 Neurodivergent & Proud | 🛤️ Path SeekerAfter a lifetime of personal growth—through self-help, therapy, and endless learning—I'm embracing my unique journey. No more chasing 'normal.' Here to celebrate the quirks, the trials, and the joys of being authentically me. 🌟Leaving the software world behind, I'm forging a new trail with "Phil Phails," a show that revels in the messiness of life and learning. Catch my latest adventures and dad moments on Austin Public and YouTube. Let’s redefine success together. The Fool's journey is a tapestry of learning, woven with threads of naivety and the vibrant colors of experience. Each step is a dance between innocence and wisdom, a transformation that beckons the curious souls to witness the unfolding of a human in bloom. Embrace this odyssey with open arms, for the path of the unknowing is a canvas for growth, and every traveler a masterpiece in progress.👉 Follow me on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phil_phails/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/philphails/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@philphails Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/PhilPhails4uReddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/philphails/Twitter: https://twitter.com/philphails

In this episode of Phil Phails, I sit down with Mary Richardson-Perez, co-owner of Studio Satya, to explore the art of balance in life. We dive into the story behind Studio Satya, the deeper meaning of the Sanskrit word "Satya," and how Mary’s journey has shaped the studio's mission. Plus, Mary tackles the Phil Phails Phive (5) Questions — revealing her insights on life, mindfulness, and more. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about finding balance and living with intention!About Mary Richardson-PerezMary has always had a passion for new experiences and places, given that her family was quite nomadic before settling in Nashville, TN. Early in her yogic journey, Mary traveled to India twice for several months at a time to immerse herself in the practice and culture. In this birthplace of yoga, Mary learned Pattabhi Jois’ Ashtanga Yoga, and explored pranayama and shat kriya practices under the guidance of her esteemed teacher, V.K. Shesadre.Now with 23 years of practice and over 12,000 hours of teaching experience, she has honed an approach that effortlessly integrates lightheartedness and depth, exploring yogic philosophy and the ancient sacred traditions of self-discovery and realization. Along the way, she’s deepened her training by studying with knowledgeable teachers from very diverse traditions. She completed her teacher training at the Living Yoga Program and finished a BA at the University of Texas focusing on Studio Art (painting). She continued her studies at UT in the South Asian Studies Department focusing on Indian Philosophy/Culture and Sanskrit.Mary is a steady and gentle guide and is actively involved in workshops, teacher training, private lessons and advanced trainings. Given her passion for the history and traditions of yoga, she met regularly with a professor, Stephen Phillips, for a few years after her academic studies to study such texts as the Upanishads, and to continue her studies in Sanskrit.Currently, Mary is enrolled in a social work graduate program, and intends to complete the clinical hours required to be a LCSW. Mary has focused most of her graduate work on utilizing or researching meditation, somatic practices and various other yoga related techniques as interventions for anxiety, depression and to assist in nervous system regulation. Given Mary's desire to be of service, she blends a reverence for the ancient traditions of yoga, with an informed modern-day approach, to support each practitioner where they are at. 👉 Find Mary:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/studio_satya_austin/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StudioSatyaAustinStudio Satya: https://www.studiosatya.com/email: mary@studiosatya.comAbout Phillip Jones👨‍👧‍👧 Single dad | 🧠 Neurodivergent & Proud | 🛤️ Path SeekerAfter a lifetime of personal growth—through self-help, therapy, and endless learning—I'm embracing my unique journey. No more chasing 'normal.' Here to celebrate the quirks, the trials, and the joys of being authentically me. 🌟Leaving the software world behind, I'm forging a new trail with "Phil Phails," a show that revels in the messiness of life and learning. Catch my latest adventures and dad moments on Austin Public and YouTube. Let’s redefine success together. #PhilPhails 🎬The Fool's journey is a tapestry of learning, woven with threads of naivety and the vibrant colors of experience. Each step is a dance between innocence and wisdom, a transformation that beckons the curious souls to witness the unfolding of a human in bloom. Embrace this odyssey with open arms, for the path of the unknowing is a canvas for growth, and every traveler a masterpiece in progress.👉 Follow me on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phil_phails/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/philphails/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@philphails Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/PhilPhails4uReddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/philphails/Twitter: https://twitter.com/philphails

Tarot, Spirit Guides & Intuition: A Deep Dive into HealingIn this full interview, Linda O'Neal, a Tarot reader, NLP practitioner, and Buddhist educator, opens up about her unique approach to spiritual guidance and healing. From the moment her clients step into her space, Linda taps into their energy, invites their spirit guides, and prepares for a transformative experience. Learn how Linda combines Tarot, intuition, and spiritual rituals to help others navigate life’s challenges, from relationships to personal growth. She shares her process for cold readings, understanding Tarot symbols, and using the cards to reveal truths about life, love, and self-discovery. With her grounding in Buddhism, Linda offers insight into staying present and trusting intuition in the process. This conversation offers a deep look into how Tarot and spiritual practices can serve as powerful tools for healing and clarity.Hashtags:#TarotReading #SpiritualHealing #Intuition #LindaONeal #PhilPhails #TarotAndHealing #SpiritGuides #EnergyHealing #Mindfulness #BuddhismAndTarot #LifeCoaching #PersonalGrowth #ColdReading #RelationshipAdvice #HealingJourney #TrustYourIntuition #SelfDiscoveryAbout Linda O'NealLinda O'Neal is a skilled Tarot reader and NeuroLinguistic Programming (NLP) practitioner who combines her rich Buddhist background with over 15 years as an educator and four years as an NLP and Mindfulness Coach. At the heart of her practice is the belief that intuitive guidance, ancestral wisdom, and spiritual connection can empower individuals to overcome feelings of being "stuck." Through her work at Austin Tarot Therapy, Linda offers compassionate, non-judgmental sessions that help clients tap into their inner wisdom and navigate life’s challenges with confidence and clarity.👉 Find Linda:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/austintarottherapyFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/linda.oneal.988TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@austintarottherapyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LindaONeal-ou1tvThreads: https://www.threads.net/@austintarottherapyPsychology Today: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/linda-oneal-austin-tx/1001182Austin Tarot Therapy Website: https://www.austintarottherapy.com/Good Thoughts NLP Website: https://www.goodthoughtsnlp.com/email: austintarottherapy@gmail.comAbout Phillip Jones👨‍👧‍👧 Single dad | 🧠 Neurodivergent & Proud | 🛤️ Path SeekerAfter a lifetime of personal growth—through self-help, therapy, and endless learning—I'm embracing my unique journey. No more chasing 'normal.' Here to celebrate the quirks, the trials, and the joys of being authentically me. 🌟Leaving the software world behind, I'm forging a new trail with "Phil Phails," a show that revels in the messiness of life and learning. Catch my latest adventures and dad moments on Austin Public and YouTube. Let’s redefine success together. #PhilPhails 🎬The Fool's journey is a tapestry of learning, woven with threads of naivety and the vibrant colors of experience. Each step is a dance between innocence and wisdom, a transformation that beckons the curious souls to witness the unfolding of a human in bloom. Embrace this odyssey with open arms, for the path of the unknowing is a canvas for growth, and every traveler a masterpiece in progress.👉 Follow me on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phil_phails/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/philphails/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@philphails Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/PhilPhails4uReddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/philphails/Twitter: https://twitter.com/philphails🔔 Subscribe and hit the bell to get notified about new videos: https://www.youtube.com/@PhilPhails

The Politics of Neutrality: Redefining Democracy, Polarization, and Elections In this deep dive, we challenge the traditional idea of democracy and explore whether true neutrality is even possible in politics. From discussing the impact of powerful figures like Donald Trump to imagining a world where elections are based solely on shared values rather than personalities, this conversation delves into the complexities of polarization, power dynamics, and the role of the average voter. We examine how political parties, propaganda, and extremism shape our political landscape and ask whether it's time to rethink the way we elect leaders. Can we ever find a neutral middle ground in an increasingly divided world? Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on the future of democracy.Hashtags: #democracy #politics #neutrality #polarization #voting #elections #partisanship #power #donaldtrump #values #votereform #extremism #polarizingfigures #politicalspeech #americanpolitics #votingrights #newideas #politicalsystem #neutralcenter #politicalchange #leadership #politicaldebateAbout David BeaverBased in Austin, Texas for the last 18 years, I’m a professional academic working on the nature of meaning from linguistic, philosophical, social, psychological, and computational perspectives. I’m also passionate about dance, especially Contact Improv, a dance form that emphasizes curiosity, connection, and flow. I have two adult children, a son here in Austin, and a daughter now living in the UK. I grew up in the UK myself, and have joint US/British nationality. I worked for six years in the Netherlands before taking up an academic job at Stanford in California. Nine years later, I moved to Austin, Texas for my current post at UT. As a professor at UT, I’m based in the Linguistics Department, where I currently have the role of Graduate Advisor, and am secondarily a faculty member in the Philosophy Department. I am the director of UT’s Cognitive Science program, which I hope will be accepting majors very soon. The work of a professor is sometimes described as 50% research, 50% teaching, and 50% service work, to which I might add that at least 50% of any professor’s time is spent complaining about the other three. As well as journal articles and book chapters, I’ve published three books, most recently “The Politics of Language” (Princeton University Press) with my coauthor Jason Stanley. I especially enjoy collaborations that take me into neighboring disciplines, such as AI, psychology, political philosophy, and sociology. I believe that linguists have more to learn from dance than dancers do from linguistics.About Phillip Jones👨‍👧‍👧 Single dad | 🧠 Neurodivergent & Proud | 🛤️ Path SeekerAfter a lifetime of personal growth—through self-help, therapy, and endless learning—I'm embracing my unique journey. No more chasing 'normal.' Here to celebrate the quirks, the trials, and the joys of being authentically me. 🌟Leaving the software world behind, I'm forging a new trail with "Phil Phails," a show that revels in the messiness of life and learning. Catch my latest adventures and dad moments on Austin Public and YouTube. Let’s redefine success together. #PhilPhails 🎬The Fool's journey is a tapestry of learning, woven with threads of naivety and the vibrant colors of experience. Each step is a dance between innocence and wisdom, a transformation that beckons the curious souls to witness the unfolding of a human in bloom. Embrace this odyssey with open arms, for the path of the unknowing is a canvas for growth, and every traveler a masterpiece in progress.👉 Follow me on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phil_phails/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/philphails/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@philphails Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/philphails/Twitter: https://twitter.com/philphails🔔 Subscribe and hit the bell to get notified about new videos: https://www.youtube.com/@PhilPhails

NLP, Authenticity, and Bringing New Tools to the PodcastIn the final half of this conversation, Katie Raver reflects on balancing authenticity with respect for others' experiences and offers insight into NLP modeling. Phillip explores using NLP techniques with future guests, and Katie shares collaborative strategies to help refine these skills. This segment highlights the intersection of mindfulness, communication, and podcasting creativity.Hashtags:#NLP #PodcastingTools #Authenticity #KatieRaver #PhilPhailsPodcast #MinAbout Katie RaverKatie Raver teaches Attention Experiments, NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming), and communication skills to help you shift your mindset, strengthen relationships, improve productivity, and navigate life with more presence.Training in Austin, Texas & beyond (Maui, Manhattan, Belgrade & more).www.KatieRaver.comAbout Phillip Jones👨‍👧‍👧 Single dad | 🧠 Neurodivergent & Proud | 🛤️ Path SeekerAfter a lifetime of personal growth—through self-help, therapy, and endless learning—I'm embracing my unique journey. No more chasing 'normal.' Here to celebrate the quirks, the trials, and the joys of being authentically me. 🌟Leaving the software world behind, I'm forging a new trail with "Phil Phails," a show that revels in the messiness of life and learning. Catch my latest adventures and dad moments on Austin Public and YouTube. Let’s redefine success together. #PhilPhails 🎬The Fool's journey is a tapestry of learning, woven with threads of naivety and the vibrant colors of experience. Each step is a dance between innocence and wisdom, a transformation that beckons the curious souls to witness the unfolding of a human in bloom. Embrace this odyssey with open arms, for the path of the unknowing is a canvas for growth, and every traveler a masterpiece in progress.👉 Follow me on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phil_phails/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/philphails/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@philphails Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/PhilPhails4uReddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/philphails/Twitter: https://twitter.com/philphails🔔 Subscribe and hit the bell to get notified about new videos: https://www.youtube.com/@PhilPhails

Katie Raver on Rebounding, NLP, and Building Community in AustinIn this extended conversation, Katie Raver dives into her journey of returning to Austin full-time, her passion for building learning communities through NLP, and helping people explore deep questions about belonging, transformation, and perspective-taking. From her early days founding the Austin NLP Meetup to her current work facilitating personal and societal change, Katie shares insights on cultivating compassion, understanding diverse viewpoints, and navigating life's transitions with curiosity and openness.#KatieRaver #NLP #AustinTX #Community #PersonalGrowth #PerspectiveTaking #PhilPhails #MindsetShift #TransformationAbout Katie RaverKatie Raver teaches Attention Experiments, NLP (Neuro Linguistic Programming), and communication skills to help you shift your mindset, strengthen relationships, improve productivity, and navigate life with more presence.Training in Austin, Texas & beyond (Maui, Manhattan, Belgrade & more).www.KatieRaver.comAbout Phillip Jones👨‍👧‍👧 Single dad | 🧠 Neurodivergent & Proud | 🛤️ Path SeekerAfter a lifetime of personal growth—through self-help, therapy, and endless learning—I'm embracing my unique journey. No more chasing 'normal.' Here to celebrate the quirks, the trials, and the joys of being authentically me. 🌟Leaving the software world behind, I'm forging a new trail with "Phil Phails," a show that revels in the messiness of life and learning. Catch my latest adventures and dad moments on Austin Public and YouTube. Let’s redefine success together. #PhilPhails 🎬The Fool's journey is a tapestry of learning, woven with threads of naivety and the vibrant colors of experience. Each step is a dance between innocence and wisdom, a transformation that beckons the curious souls to witness the unfolding of a human in bloom. Embrace this odyssey with open arms, for the path of the unknowing is a canvas for growth, and every traveler a masterpiece in progress.👉 Follow me on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phil_phails/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/philphails/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@philphails Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/PhilPhails4uReddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/philphails/Twitter: https://twitter.com/philphails🔔 Subscribe and hit the bell to get notified about new videos: https://www.youtube.com/@PhilPhails

Phil Phails: A Status Update – Disappointment, Excitement & Fear

A year into Phil Phails, I’m reflecting on where the show stands, what’s next, and the mix of emotions that come with it. Disappointment, excitement, and fear are all present as I navigate finding my audience, pushing creative boundaries, and stepping into new challenges. This update is raw, real, and a reminder that growth takes time. Welcome to the Synergy Phase—let’s see where this next chapter takes us.Hashtags:#PhilPhails #ContentCreation #HonestUpdate #SelfGrowth #CreativeJourney #PodcastLife #Mindfulness #ImposterSyndrome #YearTwoAbout Phillip Jones👨‍👧‍👧 Single dad | 🧠 Neurodivergent & Proud | 🛤️ Path SeekerAfter a lifetime of personal growth—through self-help, therapy, and endless learning—I'm embracing my unique journey. No more chasing 'normal.' Here to celebrate the quirks, the trials, and the joys of being authentically me. 🌟Leaving the software world behind, I'm forging a new trail with "Phil Phails," a show that revels in the messiness of life and learning. Catch my latest adventures and dad moments on Austin Public and YouTube. Let’s redefine success together. #PhilPhails 🎬The Fool's journey is a tapestry of learning, woven with threads of naivety and the vibrant colors of experience. Each step is a dance between innocence and wisdom, a transformation that beckons the curious souls to witness the unfolding of a human in bloom. Embrace this odyssey with open arms, for the path of the unknowing is a canvas for growth, and every traveler a masterpiece in progress.👉 Follow me on Social Media:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/phil_phails/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/philphails/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@philphails Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/PhilPhails4uReddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/philphails/Twitter: https://twitter.com/philphails🔔 Subscribe and hit the bell to get notified about new videos: https://www.youtube.com/@PhilPhails