Dr. Jim welcomes back his podcast comrade, Rafael Cortina, who returns to the studio after stepping into his new role as President of the International Association for the Advancement of Gestalt Therapy (IAAGT).

In this episode, Rafael shares insights from his leadership journey and offers a fresh take on the impact of Gestalt Therapy. He explores key principles including existentialism, parts work, present-moment awareness, and the transformative power of self-acceptance in fostering healthier relationships. Rafael also highlights the influence of Gestalt on contemporary approaches like Internal Family Systems (IFS) and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), along with his own expertise in trauma and addiction.

But it’s not all theory—Dr. Jim and Rafael dive into their beloved offseason ritual: talking 49ers football. From leadership in therapy to leadership on the field, the conversation flows into a spirited discussion about the team’s future and the importance of community, both on and off the gridiron.

This episode might just inspire you to sign up for an international Gestalt training—or snag tickets to a 49ers game and cheer on Brock Purdy, now Mr. Very Relevant.

WCMI networking group
A networking group for mindfulness-focused clinicians dedicated to learning together & collaborating for more information click here

In this heartfelt episode, Dr. Jim interviews Ben Yalom about his moving collaboration with his father, renowned psychiatrist Dr. Irvin D. Yalom, on their co-authored book, Hour of the Heart: Connecting in the Here and Now.

Ben reflects on what it was like growing up in the shadow of a famous father—and in Palo Alto, no less, where not inventing a technological breakthrough by age 14 made you seem like a slacker. He shares how he forged his own unique path in theater, coaching, and therapy, while still honoring his father’s influence.

We also explore the origin of the book: Irv, facing memory loss and aging, invited Ben to help him capture and shape his reflections—many drawn from decades of work with patients. Having supported his father on previous writing projects, Ben stepped into this collaboration with both tenderness and clarity.

Throughout the conversation, we dive into themes of aging, legacy, father-son connection, existentialism, and the power of being present. Whether you’re a therapy enthusiast, a clinician, or someone interested in meaningful relationships across generations, this episode offers rich insights and warm humanity.

Hour of the Heart speaks to both everyday readers and therapy nerds (like yours truly). Don’t miss this intimate and inspiring dialogue.

WCMI networking group
A networking group for mindfulness-focused clinicians dedicated to learning together & collaborating for more information click here

Dr. Jim Interviews Dr. Richard Freed

In this powerful episode, Dr. Jim sits down with psychologist and author Dr. Richard Freed, whose new book Better Than Real Life examines how persuasive design is reshaping childhood—and not for the better. Dr. Freed’s work has been featured in the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and other major media outlets. And he’s also the author of the influential book Wired Child.

You’ll hear a personal story about Dr. Freed’s long-lost Harvard certificate. And you’ll learn about his roots in Silicon Valley—back when it was covered in orange groves (okay, maybe not that long ago) and chips meant Pringles.

Dr. Freed pulls back the curtain on persuasive design and what Jim calls “attention fracking”—how screen-based platforms, powered by behavioral science, hijack kids’ attention and emotions for profit. He explores how Big Tech uses these tools to draw children into the multiverse of social media, video games, and streaming content—stealing them away from the real-world experiences they need to thrive.

Determined to speak truth to power, Dr. Freed exposes the science behind screen addiction and how it renders young minds vulnerable to manipulation. He makes the case for reclaiming a childhood centered on family, education, nature, and real human connection—not devices engineered for dependency.

This episode is essential listening for parents, educators, and anyone concerned with the future of childhood in the digital age.

WCMI networking group
A networking group for mindfulness-focused clinicians dedicated to learning together & collaborating for more information click here