In this episode, Dr. Judith and guest Stephen Schettini explore the transition from being defensive to becoming more vulnerable. Stephen, a former Buddhist monk with over 40 years of teaching mindfulness, shares insights into how learned behaviors shape defensiveness and how true vulnerability is a natural state. They discuss the importance of self-observation, breaking down the barriers created by ego, and the role of courage and stillness in achieving authenticity. The conversation also touches on the influence of emotions over thoughts, the necessity of support systems, and finding a balance between ego and genuine self-expression. Join them as they delve into these profound topics aimed at fostering personal growth and spiritual evolution.

About Our Guest

Stephen Schettini (pronounced skettini) is a former Buddhist monk and present-day mindfulness teacher focusing on the tension between cognitive and emotional intelligence. He is author of a memoir, The Novice: How I Became a Buddhist Monk, Why I Quit and What I Learned, and the guide to mindful reflection entitled, It Begins with Silence. Stephen lives outside Montreal with his wife, stepdaughter and two cats.

TEDx Talk: http://tinyurl.com/5yv94ddh

Article (A Sense of Belonging): https://t.ly/enbnE

00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

01:50 Understanding Defensiveness and Vulnerability

03:10 The Role of Ego and Learned Behaviors

06:41 Embracing Vulnerability and Authenticity

09:45 The Spiritual Perspective on Vulnerability

13:12 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Growth

19:40 The Importance of Community and Support

31:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of the Deep Dive series, Dr. Judith welcomes Steven Schettini, a former Buddhist monk trained in the Tibetan tradition, to discuss how to move past self-doubt. They explore the roots of self-doubt, its amplification through social media, and methods for overcoming it. Steven emphasizes the importance of self-compassion, understanding learned behaviors, and the practice of active mindfulness. They conclude with advice on continuous self-reflection, cultivating inner harmony, and the significance of regular meditation practice.

About Our Guest

Stephen Schettini (pronounced skettini) is a former Buddhist monk and present-day mindfulness teacher focusing on the tension between cognitive and emotional intelligence. He is author of a memoir, The Novice: How I Became a Buddhist Monk, Why I Quit and What I Learned, and the guide to mindful reflection entitled, It Begins with Silence. Stephen lives outside Montreal with his wife, stepdaughter and two cats.

TEDx Talk: http://tinyurl.com/5yv94ddh

Article (A Sense of Belonging): https://t.ly/enbnE

00:00 Introduction to the Deep Dive Series

00:42 Meet Steven Sini: From Buddhist Monk to Mindfulness Expert

01:40 Understanding Self-Doubt in the Modern World

04:05 The Roots of Self-Doubt: Childhood and Socialization

06:21 Transforming Self-Doubt Through Self-Compassion

10:59 The Power of Meditation and Self-Observation

17:55 The Importance of Being Present

27:09 Embracing Change and Impermanence

28:53 The Essence of Playful Meditation

30:31 The Role of Self-Doubt in Our Lives

31:54 The Power of the Human Mind

33:33 The Duality of Human Nature

35:47 The Importance of Mindfulness

43:48 Active vs. Formal Meditation

49:34 The Practice of Continuity in Meditation

In this episode, we delve into the critical concept of overcoming self-deception, a subtle yet powerful barrier to soul progress. We explore self-deception using the acronym SELF - Stories, Ego, Lies, and Fear - and how each element impedes spiritual growth. Through historical examples like Galileo and Malcolm X, we learn the importance of challenging prevailing narratives, humbling the ego, and facing inner lies and fears. Practical strategies, including meditation, journaling, and seeking spiritual accountability, are provided to help listeners break free from self-deception, fostering deeper alignment with their souls and higher purposes.

00:00 Introduction to Overcoming SELF-Deception

00:59 Understanding the SELF Framework

02:21 The Power of Stories

05:04 Ego and Its Impact

10:26 The Danger of Lies

16:36 Confronting Fear

23:31 Strategies for Overcoming Self-Deception

28:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts