Tim Fitzpatrick learned about healthcare the hard way, as a long-term inpatient undergoing a battery of surgeries to address injuries sustained while serving as a pilot in the US Navy. After recovering and leaving the service, Tim was an equities trader for a bank, and after learning more about new media technologies, then meeting a physician who was pioneering virtual reality in healthcare, Tim found his passion, and left his job to co-found IKONA, where he now serves as CEO. This innovative and inspiring company is using virtual reality tools to help kidney patients understand the sometimes scary challenges faced when moving to a home dialysis setting.

Chapters:

01:11 Meet Tim Fitzpatrick
Tim Fitzpatrick, co-founder and CEO of IKONA, shares his personal journey into healthcare, shaped by his experiences as a long-term hospital inpatient. His background in the Navy and finance laid the groundwork for his passion for healthcare innovation.

02:22 The Impact of Personal Experience
Tim delves into his hospital experiences, discussing the empathy he developed for patients and the insights he gained about the healthcare system. He reflects on how these experiences motivated him to pursue a career in healthcare technology.

07:03 From Navy to Trading
Transitioning from the Navy to a trading career, Tim explains how his military training prepared him for high-pressure environments. He shares how his time in finance helped him recognize what truly drives him, ultimately leading him back to healthcare.

11:57 The Birth of IKONA
Tim recounts the origins of IKONA Health, highlighting the innovative work of his cofounders in using virtual reality to enhance patient education.

16:31 Innovating Patient Experience
As Tim discusses the evolution of IKONA’s technology, he emphasizes the importance of improving patient experiences in healthcare settings. He explains how virtual reality can help patients prepare for surgeries and manage anxiety.

21:09 The Role of VR in Kidney Care
Tim elaborates on how IKONA’s VR solutions are tailored for patients with kidney failure, particularly in educating them about home dialysis options. He discusses the emotional and instructional benefits of VR in helping patients make informed decisions.

29:03 The Future of Home Healthcare
Tim discusses the shift towards home-based healthcare solutions, emphasizing the importance of reducing hospital visits and costs. He highlights regulatory changes and initiatives that support this transition, making healthcare more accessible, especially in rural areas.

32:30 Understanding IKONA’s Customer Base
The conversation shifts to IKONA target customers, primarily large dialysis organizations and nephrology specialists.

35:20 Innovative Training Solutions in Healthcare
Tim elaborates on the innovative training methods IKONA is developing, focusing on emotional and instructional learning for patients. He shares the vision for creating accessible training opportunities that enhance patient care and safety.

38:40 Exploring VR’s Potential in Pain Management
The discussion highlights the transformative potential of VR in pain management, allowing patients to manage pain through mindfulness techniques. Tim shares insights on how this technology could reduce reliance on opioids and improve patient outcomes.

41:40 The Future of Surgical Training with VR
Tim discusses the application of VR in surgical training, emphasizing its role in providing safe, repeatable practice for surgeons. He explains how VR can enhance proficiency and safety in high-risk procedures, revolutionizing medical training.

44:30 An Optimistic Vision for Healthcare’s Future
In the closing segment, Tim expresses his optimism about the future of healthcare technology and the positive impact of VR. He shares his belief in the potential of these innovations to enhance patient care and transform the healthcare landscape.

Raul Espinoza’s father had many talents, but an equal number of demons. He struggled with addiction and was abusive to Raul’s mother as well as to him and his siblings. At the early age of ten, Raul decided he would take a different path and vowed not to drink and to treat women with respect. He has stayed true to this pledge and now, at the age of 38, Raul Espinoza is the executive director and driving force behind All Kings, a peer-led support organization that empowers men who have been – or may soon be impacted by the criminal justice system. This is an inspiring conversation about how this man overcame extreme challenges to make a huge difference in the lives of others with similar backgrounds.

All Kings: www.allkings.org

NY Times feature: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/07/01/style/all-kings-mens-work-retreat-masculinity.html

Episode Chapters:

02:06 Raul Espinoza’s Personal Journey
Raul shares his personal story of growing up in a challenging environment marked by domestic violence, substance abuse, and finding resilience and release through the arts.

06:04 Turning Pain into Purpose
Raul discusses how his childhood experiences led him to channel his emotions into art, setting the foundation for his journey towards personal development and helping others.

10:08 Entering the World of Personal Development
Raul shares his initial resistance to personal development work, his transformative experience, and his decision to help others navigate their own traumas and challenges.

14:00 Journey to All Kings
Raul recounts his global travels, working with marginalized communities, and finding his calling at All Kings, a nonprofit focusing on men’s mental health, trauma, and leadership development.

18:04 All Kings: A Peer-Led Men’s Group
Exploration of All Kings’ mission to address the crisis of manhood in America, providing a safe space for men impacted by the justice system and at-risk youth to process trauma and develop leadership skills.

23:24 Impact of Incarceration on Men
Discussion on the disproportionate incarceration rates of men of color in America, the challenges faced by those reentering society, and the cycle of trauma perpetuated by the current system.

29:34 Unpacking Stories at All Kings
Discover how All Kings uses retreats to revisit personal narratives, emotions, and beliefs, creating a safe space for men to unpack and share their stories while incorporating somatic healing and experiential learning.

33:29 Peer-Led Support and Emotional Healing
Explore the power of peer-led support in men’s groups, where individuals process trauma and emotions, unlocking each other’s experiences and fostering emotional healing through shared storytelling and vulnerability.

37:23 Body, Community, Equality: Pillars of Transformation
Delve into how All Kings integrates body awareness, community support, and equality principles into their program, empowering men to explore emotional intelligence, release negative energy, and cultivate a supportive environment for personal growth.

43:54 Impact and Optimism
Discover the outcomes and impact of All Kings’ work in transforming lives and communities, fueled by stories of personal growth, leadership development, and the ripple effects of empowerment, highlighting the optimism and hope that drives Raul Espinosa and his team forward.

Note for this encore presentation: While much of our discussion centered on Professor Pinker’s views on how the world continues to improve while we have trouble believing it, he also goes into details about his concerns about the state of public discourse on college campuses. He and I conducted this interview in June of 2023, several months before the conflict between Hamas and Israel began, and subsequent demonstrations caused huge disruptions on college campuses around the country, including Pinker’s own Harvard University. He’s since been very active in shaping his school’s policy on open speech and debate and whether or not universities should take public positions on political issues that don’t directly relate to those schools. It’s interesting now to listen to what he had to say about his campus’s climate, before it became an issue of press coverage and public debate.

In this wide-ranging conversation, renowned author and professor Steven Pinker describes that while he resists being called an “optimist,” as the label doesn’t necessarily suit his temperament, his deep dives into historical data have convinced him that the world is indeed getting better and has been on a steady trajectory since the days of the Enlightenment, the subject of one of his many acclaimed books. Dr. Pinker also describes why he believes so many intellectuals resist acknowledging that the world is making progress; and adds, ironically, that self-described “progressives” often have the toughest time with this. He also shares his concerns about the policing of speech on college campuses – including Harvard – and the deleterious effects this has on students’ wellbeing.

Chapters:

03:30 The World Getting Better
Steven Pinker discusses the concept of human progress and how our cognitive abilities allow us to overcome negative impulses. He explains the importance of acknowledging progress despite inherent biases towards negativity.

11:00 Optimism vs. Pessimism
Explore Steven Pinker’s view on optimism and pessimism, highlighting how his perspective is rooted in data and empirical evidence rather than personal temperament. Understand the societal perception of optimism and pessimism in intellectual circles.

12:07 Glorifying the Past
Delve into the tendency to glorify the past and criticize the present. Learn about the societal inclination to equate pessimism with moral seriousness and the impact of historical perspectives on current discourse.

23:01 Criticism and Academic Freedom
Steven Pinker addresses concerns about academic freedom and the culture of censorship and intolerance in higher education. Understand the importance of open discourse and challenging dominant orthodoxies for societal progress.

27:33 Campus Climate and Mental Health
Pinker describes how campus orientations and cultural shifts impact young people’s mental health, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation.

31:53 Positive Historical Trends
Discussing surprising positive historical trends related to violence, environmental improvements, and changing perceptions of war and heroism.

36:18 War and Peaceful Service
Exploring the shift from glorifying war to promoting peaceful service as a means to cultivate heroic and altruistic qualities in individuals.

38:50 Spreading Optimism and Data-Driven Progress
Pinker offers advice on spreading awareness of positive trends, emphasizing data-driven optimism, acknowledging challenges, and the role of human agency in creating a better world.

40:31 Reflections on War and Optimism
Dr. Pinker reflects on the historical glorification of war and the potential for mandatory peaceful service, along with the importance of data-driven optimism in shaping perspectives.

Dr. Hasan Merali came to admire toddlers when he began working with kids in a hospital emergency department. Seeing their remarkable resilience, optimism, and courage in the face of adversity led him to think about ways we as adults can learn from these young people. The result is his great book, “Sleep Well, Take Risks, Squish the Peas: Secrets from the Science of Toddlers for a Happier, More Successful Way of Life.” On this fun Blue Sky episode, Dr. Merali shares many of these secrets, from being good at saying no, finishing meals when full, taking risks, and sleeping well with consistent bedtime rituals.

Order Dr. Merali's new book here.

Chapters:

03:06 Pediatrics and Inspiration from Children
Dr. Merali shares his journey into pediatrics, inspired by the resilience and optimism of children facing medical challenges, highlighting the valuable life lessons adults can learn from toddlers’ approach to life.

05:02 Toddlers’ Worldview and Happiness
Exploration of toddlers’ world filled with wonder, empathy, and honesty, emphasizing the lessons adults can learn from toddlers about kindness, generosity, and genuine happiness.

09:03 Toddler Teachings on Kindness and Happiness
Exploration of how toddlers’ innate kindness and generosity contribute to their happiness, with insights on how adults can experience deeper happiness through acts of kindness and sharing.

10:20 Eating Habits: Lessons from Toddlers
Insights into toddlers’ natural ability to self-regulate food intake based on hunger cues, contrasting with adult tendencies to eat for reasons beyond hunger, highlighting the benefits of mindful eating.

12:03 Resilience and Trust in Toddlers
Exploration of toddlers’ resilience and trust in others, exemplified by their natural empathy and trusting nature, emphasizing the positive impact of these traits on building relationships and facing challenges.

15:30 The Humor and Reading Cliffs
Discussion on the decline in laughter and reading habits with age, exploring the benefits of humor and reading for maintaining optimism and cognitive health throughout life.

17:14 Lifelong Learning and Deep Reading
Emphasis on the importance of lifelong learning and deep reading, inspired by toddlers’ curiosity and love for books, highlighting the cognitive benefits of reading and its impact on mental well-being.

19:39 Positive Self-Talk and Bedtime Routine
Insights into the power of positive self-talk inspired by toddlers’ natural self-affirmations, along with the benefits of a structured bedtime routine for promoting better sleep and mental well-being in adults.

28:09 The Power of Saying No
Learn about the benefits of saying no and how toddlers can teach us the importance of setting boundaries and managing our commitments. Explore the concept of exerting control over our schedules and the value of being assertive in decision-making.

31:36 Risk-Taking and Quick Decision Making
Explore how toddlers excel in making quick decisions and taking risks guided by learning, relationships, and empathy. Understand the benefits of embracing risk-taking and making swift decisions in personal and professional growth.

33:05 Confidence and Optimism
Discover how toddlers exhibit high levels of confidence and optimism even in the face of setbacks. Learn about the importance of maintaining confidence and optimism in adulthood for personal development and success.

40:45 Applying Toddler Behavior in Work Life
Understand how toddler behavior can positively impact teamwork and communication in the workplace. Explore the benefits of incorporating play, direct communication, and teamwork inspired by toddler attributes into professional settings.

44:07 Parenting and Embracing Toddlerhood
Reflect on the challenges and rewards of parenting toddlers, emphasizing the importance of appreciating and learning from toddler behavior. Consider the value of embracing the toddler spirit in both parenting and personal development.

Teju Ravilochan was born in the United States, just two years after his parents came to this country from their native India. His parents went on to careers in medicine, but only after help from several corners of their adopted community. Growing up, they taught these lessons to their son, and today Teju is the founder of GatherFor, a non-profit dedicated to the belief that “in community, we have everything we need.” In this Blue Sky conversation, Teju describes the remarkable and brave work that he and his colleagues are doing, particularly in challenging housing development in Brooklyn, NY. Teju describes how nearly every tactic and practice they pursue is nothing new, but rather reaching back to old, in some cases ancestral, concepts of community and looking out for our neighbors. Teju’s optimism is as infectious as his work his inspiring.

Learn more about GatherFor: https://gatherfor.org/

Chapters:

01:12 Teju Ravolochan’s Journey with GatherFor
Teju Ravilochan shares his background and the founding of GatherFor, a non-profit organization that organizes neighbors in Brownsville, Brooklyn to support each other unconditionally.

02:23 Teju’s Family and Heritage
Teju discusses his family’s immigration journey from India to the United States, highlighting the support and kindness they received from their community, shaping his belief in the importance of community over individualism.

06:00 The American Dream and Community Support
Teju reflects on the American Dream, emphasizing the role of community support in achieving success and questioning the societal focus on financial wealth over communal bonds.

15:06 Undervaluing Community in Modern Society
Teju discusses the loneliness epidemic and the undervaluing of community in modern society, contrasting it with historical practices of communal living and support.

27:01 Building GatherFor in Brownsville
Teju shares the early days of Gather 4, starting with 8 people and growing through word-of-mouth. The focus is on storytelling as a tool to connect neighbors and build relationships.

33:13 Rebuilding Trust in Public Housing
Teju recounts the challenges faced in engaging with the New York City Housing Authority (NYCHA) to address long-standing repair issues. The chapter highlights the transformative impact of community organizing and a unique approach to building trust with NYCHA.

46:26 Transforming Community Culture through a Block Party
The story of how a block party organized by Glenmore Proud residents led to repairing over 1,600 issues in 60 days. The event not only celebrated the repairs but also fostered a sense of community and trust among neighbors.

48:06 Lessons in Community Organizing and Engagement
Insights into Teju’s approach to community engagement, including the importance of building trust and relationships before scaling initiatives. The chapter emphasizes the power of storytelling and shared experiences in fostering community connections.

Note for this encore presentation: We’re bringing back this conversation in honor of Immigrant Heritage Month in the United States. Anh and her family left their home country in the most dramatic of circumstances and in the nearly 50 years since they came to this country, their accomplishments have been extraordinary.

The family of Anh Vu Sawyer were among the small number of South Vietnamese who successfully fled Saigon in the final days and hours of the Vietnam War. After describing this harrowing ordeal, Anh explains how these events inspired her to lead a life of inspiring service and social entrepreneurship here in the United States.

Chapters:

01:05 Personal History and Gratitude
Anh Vu Sawyer’s personal history in South Vietnam, her gratitude for surviving dramatic times, and her desire to give back.

03:17 Father’s Escape and Family Reunion
The dramatic story of Ahn’s father escaping the Hanoi Hilton, reuniting with the family, and the emotional reunion during chaotic times.

11:14 Escape from Saigon
The harrowing escape from Saigon, the challenges faced, and the miraculous moments that led to their survival and rescue.

19:28 Evacuation and Miracle on USS Midway
Details of the evacuation process, the challenges faced on USS Midway, and the miraculous events that ensured their safe passage to the US.

23:39 Reflections on Survival and American Generosity
Reflecting on the survival, the generosity of Americans during the evacuation, and the impact of the experience on Anh’s life.

25:22 Life After Arrival in the US
Anh’s journey after arriving in the US, settling in Oak Brook, Illinois, and her career at People Express Airlines

28:06 Making Impact Through Career Choices
Anh reflects on the impact of People Express Airlines and her career choices aimed at making a positive impact, especially for refugees. She discusses her work with the Southeast Asian Coalition and the joy of helping thousands access housing, jobs, and education.

32:31 Gratitude for Freedom and Helping Others
Anh Vu Sawyer emphasizes the importance of freedom and the ability to help others, highlighting the luxury of being able to make a difference. She shares insights on the power of giving and the impact it has on changing the world.

36:00 Lifelong Learning and Giving Back
Anh Vu Sawyer discusses her pursuit of education, including getting her MBA in her sixties, and shares her philosophy on using personal gifts to benefit others. She emphasizes the fulfillment and purpose that come from giving back.

39:00 Social Entrepreneurship with Refugees
Anh Vu Sawyer details her latest project, a clothing company that employs refugees to create handcrafted labels, providing economic development opportunities. She explains the mission-driven approach of the business and its potential for creating positive change.

44:00 Inspiration and Legacy of Giving
The conversation wraps up with reflections on Anh Vu Sawyer’s inspiring journey, her impact on others, and the legacy she continues to build through her dedication to helping refugees. Her story serves as a testament to the power of generosity and making a difference.

Kate Bean’s life has been marked by a series of radical changes and transformations. After founding and running a successful non-profit that launched and oversaw charter schools while leading a national movement towards personalized education Kate decided to make a change. She retired from her position, tricked out a minivan and headed out so see the country, inspired by Gandhi’s advice that, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.” This remarkable journey led her to take on a social impact academic fellowship where she created another new entity, iChangeCourse. In addition to writing a book about her life and travels, she consults individuals and speaks to groups about managing and embracing change. Today, Kate says that, “life is a journey, change is the vehicle, and the destination is now.”

Chapters:

02:09 Early Life and Upbringing
Kate Bean shares her upbringing in a small Mormon town and her journey of self-discovery, including her realization of her sexual orientation while attending Brigham Young University.

04:57 Venturing into Education Entrepreneurship
Kate discusses her entrepreneurial journey in founding Aveson, a charter school company focused on personalized education, driven by her daughter’s unique learning needs and a passion for transforming education.

09:20 Transitioning from Aveson
Kate Bean reflects on her decision to step down as CEO of Aveson after 13 years, influenced by personal health challenges and a desire to explore new paths beyond her successful venture in education.

13:45 Finding Purpose and Change
Kate Bean’s journey post-Aveson focuses on self-discovery, service, and embracing change, leading her to embark on a transformative van trip focused on serving others and capturing “extraordinary ordinary moments.”

16:14 Planning the Van Trip
Kate’s van trip is characterized by spontaneity, service, and a commitment to capturing meaningful moments along the way, showcasing her shift from a control-oriented mindset to embracing change and service.

26:09 Kate’s Journey of Service
Kate Bean describes her journey of service and exploration without a set plan, relying on spontaneity and a desire to serve others. She shares how she navigated her travels, stayed at various locations, and engaged in volunteer work.

35:04 Embracing Differences Through Service
Kate reflects on her experiences traveling to more conservative areas in the US South, highlighting the kindness and hospitality she encountered. Through service and connecting with people, she emphasizes the common values that unite us despite political differences.

39:51 The Notice Framework for Navigating Change
Kate Bean introduces the NOTICE Framework, an acronym to guide individuals through change. She emphasizes the power of choice in the present moment and the importance of embracing extraordinary moments while navigating life’s journey.

43:14 iChange Course Initiative
Kate Bean discusses her iChange Course initiative aimed at helping individuals transition to their next life chapter with dignity and optimism. She offers coaching services, workshops, and consulting to support people in reimagining their futures.

46:41 Finding Gratitude and Embracing Change
Kate shares her philosophy on change as a vehicle for growth and the importance of noticing ordinary moments in life. She expresses gratitude for her journey and looks forward to the impact she can make in the future.

John Daniel has led a remarkable and inspiring life, marked by challenges that he’s met with grit and resilience. John’s alcoholic father struggled to find work but his loving mom made sure her nine children always had the support they needed. John emerged from his childhood to become a successful banking executive with a successful marriage and thriving children. But following his own diagnosis of a serious heart ailment, his wife developed cancer and passed away. A few short years later, John faced a major heart procedure and ultimately, a full transplant. With the support of his second wife, Leslie, John persevered, got back on his feet, and resumed his career. Now retired from banking, John and Leslie have co-founded Bluff City Pickleball, a community center in their hometown of Memphis, Tennessee designed to bring people together from all walks of life and economic backgrounds.

Chapters:

02:09 Childhood Challenges and Resilience
John describes his challenging childhood in a working-class neighborhood with nine siblings and a father battling alcoholism and says these early experiences shaped his grit and resilience, setting the foundation for his future successes.

06:52 “Advantages of Disadvantages”
Explore the concept of finding advantages in disadvantages as discussed by John Daniel and Malcolm Gladwell. Understand how facing challenges and adversity can lead to personal growth and strength, as highlighted in John’s own experiences.

13:40 Personal Loss and Resilience
John describes his personal journey of love, loss, and resilience, from his marriage to his wife’s battle with cancer and eventual passing.

16:00 Health Challenges and Heart Transplant
Discussion of John’s health challenges, including his heart ailment and the eventual need for a heart transplant.

23:35 Transplant Procedure and Recovery
John describes his journey through the heart transplant procedure and the challenging recovery process.

26:37 Recovery from LVAD Surgery
John discusses the challenging recovery process after his LVAD surgery, including infections, transfusions, and the support he received from his wife during a low point.

29:26 Setting Goals for Recovery
John shares how setting a vision of returning to work and accomplishing a 50-mile bike ride post-transplant helped him stay motivated and focused during his recovery.

34:31 Founding Bluff City Pickleball
John shares the inspiration behind starting Bluff City Pickleball, a community center aimed at fostering social connections and physical activity, emphasizing inclusivity and social impact.

42:15 Ancestral Minds Book
John discusses his upcoming book ‘Ancestral Minds,’ focusing on human nature and evolutionary psychology, offering insights for effective leadership based on understanding innate behaviors.

49:44 Words of Encouragement
John offers words of encouragement for those facing tough times, emphasizing the importance of surrounding oneself with supportive and optimistic individuals to maintain hope and resilience.