The Mindform Podcast

In this episode of The Mindform Podcast, host Frank Lawton speaks with coach, author, and podcast host Nick Day about his powerful framework for understanding and working with fear, which he calls The Fear Equation. Nick opens up about a life-altering traumatic event that catalyzed a deep inquiry into the role of fear in his life — and how it had disguised itself as wisdom, prudence, and even respect.

Through personal stories ranging from career paralysis to family loss, Nick illustrates how fear often masquerades as logic or care, subtly stopping us from living fully. He introduces his fo...

In this deep and vulnerable conversation, neurodivergent therapist Michael MaeRhys joins Frank Lawton to explore the sacred journey of personal transformation. Drawing from his lived experience, therapeutic work, and spiritual influences like Jungian psychology and The Alchemist, Michael shares how many people live on subconscious autopilot—shaped by trauma, cultural expectations, and inherited patterns—until they begin to hear a deeper internal call.

This “summons of the soul,” as he calls it, demands courage, discomfort, and the letting go of egoic identities built for survival and social belonging. Together, Michael and Frank examine how fear keeps people from ans...

In this engaging and thought-provoking episode, Dr. Dean Burnett — a neuroscientist, a lecturer, a podcaster, a science communicator, a comedian, and an author — joins Frank Lawton for a wide-ranging discussion on the nature of emotions, the limits of logic, and the quirks of the human brain. Dean shares his deeply personal journey from a working-class Welsh village to becoming a prominent voice in public science — with a few unexpected detours, including embalming cadavers and performing stand-up comedy.

Dean reflects on how growing up amidst emotional struggle and social hardship sparked a fascination with neuroscience and mental health. He cri...

In this episode of The Mindform Podcast, host Frank Lawton speaks with Alexandra Mateus — an integral health coach, writer, and the mind behind The Modern Day Explorer Substack. Alexandra supports purpose-driven individuals in building sustainable growth through creative leadership, slow experimentation, and inner alignment.

The conversation traverses Alexandra’s journey from fashion and textile design in Lisbon to creative coaching in Sweden. She shares how moving across cultures and climates shaped her values and fostered her reflective approach to life and leadership. A central metaphor in the episode is the "growth loop" — a cyclical process of experimentation, reflec...

In this episode of The Mindform Podcast, host Frank Lawton sits down with Ryan Bush, founder of Mindform and author of Designing the Mind: The Principles of Psychitecture, for a rich exploration of what it truly means to grow. They examine two philosophies of self-development: one grounded in emotional awareness and self-connection, and the other in intentional design and habit formation. Their conversation unfolds from personal stories into philosophical questions about the nature of values, consciousness, and human nature.

Frank shares how his early approach was driven by insecurity and a desire to emulate others, leading to...

In this episode of the Mindform Podcast, psychologist and psychohistorian Robin Grille joins Frank Lawton for a transformative conversation about how parenting practices echo through generations to shape the very fabric of society. Drawing from decades of research and experience, Robin introduces the field of psychohistory — the study of how childhood experiences impact cultural and political outcomes.

From Nazi Germany to modern Sweden, Robin uncovers how parenting styles have played pivotal roles in both the rise of authoritarianism and the advancement of democracy. The conversation weaves through themes of trauma, healing, hope, and agency — highlighting how cycles of d...

In this episode, philosopher and writer Amod Sandhya Lele joins Frank Lawton for a rich conversation on ethics, identity, Buddhism, and the pursuit of the good life. Amod shares a formative experience in his early twenties — a moment of personal crisis and reflection that led him to a life-changing encounter with Buddhist philosophy, particularly the insight that suffering arises from craving. This realization became the foundation of his lifelong inquiry into wisdom traditions across cultures.

Amod reflects on his journey from early political activism and Western philosophical inquiry to a deeper exploration of Buddhist thought, including both Th...

In this episode, Frank Lawton speaks with Edward Zaydelman — community builder, retreat center consultant, and core member of the nonprofit Leap Forward. Edward shares his personal journey from New York nightlife and Burning Man to building intentional communities in Costa Rica. He recounts the rise and fall of his first eco-retreat center and the profound lessons learned about sustainability — not just ecological, but emotional, relational, and spiritual.

The conversation dives deep into the invisible structures that make or break communities — values alignment, communication, integrity, and psychological safety. Edward emphasizes the importance of slowing down, rewiring the human mind...

In this episode, Frank Lawton speaks with Amanda Saint — author, publisher, and founder of The Mindful Writer — about writing not as a performance, but as a practice of presence, healing, and self-discovery. Amanda shares how mindfulness transformed her creative process, turning writing into a channeling experience where characters reveal their own stories and wisdom.

She explains how fiction, when approached mindfully, can bypass the ego and open up profound inner transformation — both for the writer and the reader. Amanda describes how writing helped her heal emotional wounds and how the people she writes with have undergone life-changing shifts...

In this episode of The Mindform Podcast, Frank Lawton speaks with Robert Glazer—entrepreneur, author of The Compass Within, and host of The Elevate Podcast—about the profound power of discovering your core values. Robert shares his personal journey from being “unemployable” to founding a globally recognized marketing firm and eventually stepping into work that reflects his deepest beliefs.

Together, they explore how core values act as a compass for decision-making across relationships, careers, and communities. Robert introduces a practical framework for uncovering your values—not as aspirational ideals, but as non-negotiable guiding principles rooted in personal experience...

In this rich and layered conversation, Professor Peggy Kern joins Frank Lawton to explore what wellbeing really means — beyond fleeting happiness or individualistic self-help ideals. Drawing from her deep background in positive psychology, health psychology, and systems science, Kern presents a nuanced, contextual model of human thriving.

She explains the Dual Continuum Model, where ill-being and wellbeing are not opposites, but dimensions that can coexist. A person can struggle with mental illness and still live a meaningful, values-aligned life. This insight reframes how we understand resilience, recovery, and human potential.

Kern critiques traditional positive psychology’s fo...

In this episode, Frank sits down with resilience researcher Kyle Shepard, the creator of Resilient Mental State. Their conversation dives into the true meaning of resilience, showing that it is less about avoiding stress and more about adapting, recovering, and growing stronger through it. Drawing from his military background, Kyle explains how discipline and exposure to adversity can build mental toughness. He also opens up about fatherhood, describing how raising children tests patience, deepens responsibility, and creates opportunities for emotional growth.

To learn more about Kyle’s work and explore his writing and podcast, visit Resilient Mental St...

In this conversation, therapist and researcher Kasra Mirzaie explores the intersection of Internal Family Systems (IFS), adolescent development, and the search for meaning in an often fragmented world. Kasra shares how IFS offers a powerful framework for understanding and healing the inner lives of young people by relating to parts with compassion rather than control. He highlights the importance of listening deeply, creating rituals of meaning, and using gentleness instead of force when working with clients, especially adolescents. The episode moves through themes of spirituality, interoception, agency, and the role of systems thinking in therapeutic work. Kasra brings a...

Dr. Roger McFillin joins Frank Lawton to challenge the dominant mental health narrative — one that medicalizes emotional pain and fosters dependency on psychiatric drugs. He argues that conditions like depression are not diseases but natural human responses to life’s challenges, and that overreliance on diagnoses and medication often leads people away from true healing. Instead, McFillin advocates for a pro-human, pro-health approach rooted in personal resilience, community, nature, and spiritual connection. He emphasizes that suffering is not a problem to be fixed with pills, but a signal guiding us toward growth, change, and deeper meaning. Together, they explore the...

Frank Lawton speaks with Sabrina Ahmed, a resilience coach, neuroscientist, and artist, about the deep interplay between burnout, trauma, grief, and resilience. Sabrina shares her personal journey through mental health struggles, hospitalization, and the profound loss of her father—experiences that shaped her holistic approach to healing.

They explore how burnout extends beyond stress, involving emotional exhaustion, cynicism, and a sense of ineffectiveness—and how it often stems from unprocessed loss, misaligned values, or over-adaptive coping patterns like overthinking and perfectionism. Sabrina introduces the idea of burnout archetypes (e.g., the Busy Bee, People Pleaser) and explains how...

In this raw and inspiring episode, Frank Lawton speaks with writer, boxer, and thinker Ed Latimore about the hard-won lessons that shaped his philosophy of life. From growing up in the projects to fighting professionally, from battling addiction to embracing fatherhood, Ed distills a lifetime of struggle and reflection into practical wisdom.

He shares why he gave up alcohol, how he learned to stop wasting time on the wrong people, and why relationships are “emergent properties” that can’t be reduced to their parts. Together, Frank and Ed explore the difference between being liked and being respected, why fa...

In this wide-ranging and deeply reflective episode, Frank Lawton speaks with naturopathic doctor and integrative healer Erica Matluck about how healing unfolds beyond conventional ideas of safety, diagnosis, and even root causes. Erica shares her journey from energy work and anthropology to Western medical training and integrative practice — shaped not by rigid ideology, but by lived experience and practical discernment.

She challenges the dominant frameworks of both conventional and alternative medicine, especially the oversimplification of healing into singular “root causes.” Instead, she invites a systems-level approach that honors complexity, pattern recognition, and the interplay of physical, emotional, psycho...

What if you could turn anxiety, numbness, and avoidance into strength, resilience, and joy?
In this episode, coach and facilitator Elliot Freeman shares a powerful system for mastering self-regulation — using simple tools like breathwork, movement, and self-compassion to transform your inner world.

We explore:

Whether you want to break old patterns, build emotional resilience, or live with mo...

In this reflective episode, Frank speaks with longtime Mindform member Arwill Recto, a partner, father, and systems thinker deeply engaged in self-awareness and communication. Arwill shares his journey from faith-based volunteer work to corporate leadership, and how burnout and pandemic depression sparked a deeper dive into psychology, stoicism, and purpose.

They explore how self-awareness shapes communication both at work and at home, and how Arwill's growth shifted from being inward and achievement-focused to more relational and altruistic—particularly after becoming a parent. He talks about the challenge of reconciling a return to spirituality with years of secular pe...

In this rich and introspective episode of The Mindform Podcast, host Frank Lawton is joined by Kendall McCullough, a spiritual life coach and the founder of Rooted Awakening Coaching. Kendall shares his deeply personal journey from a challenging early adulthood marked by mental health struggles and a Kundalini awakening, to the development of a grounded and spiritually integrated coaching practice. Drawing heavily on Jungian psychology, Kendall outlines his four-part model of change—Awakening, Individuation, Grounding, and Transformation—which reflects both his personal evolution and the framework he now offers his clients.

Together, Frank and Kendall explore themes of i...

In this role-reversal episode, Mindform member John Warinner hosts a deeply personal conversation with the podcast’s regular host, Frank Lawton. Together, they explore Frank’s journey through meditation, fatherhood, and the transformative power of communication especially his passion for Nonviolent Communication (NVC).

Frank opens up about how Vipassana retreats shaped his presence and how his role as a father influences the language he uses and the worldview he hopes to pass on to his children. The episode also unpacks the philosophical layers of worldview, belief, and persuasion—tying personal growth to how we speak, listen, and percei...

In this episode of The Mindform Podcast, host Frank Lawton sits down with Ryan A. Bush, founder of Mindform and author of several books including The Anxiety Book and The Philosopher’s Field Guide. The conversation centers around the psychotech programs Ryan has developed, including the Anxiety Algorithm, Flourishing Function, and Growth Accelerator. Ryan elaborates on his vision of creating a “user interface for the mind”, how these tools deliver real transformation, and the community-building strategies behind Mindform.

Mindform is an exclusive membership platform that gives you access to an ever-expanding toolkit for mental mastery and a...

In this special episode, Ryan A. Bush hosts a live Q&A with Anne-Laure Le Cunff—neuroscientist, writer, and founder of Ness Labs—centered around her book Tiny Experiments. Recorded as part of the Mindform community’s June book club, the episode brings together questions from members on how to build an experimental mindset in work, life, and learning.

Anne-Laure discusses the difference between “tiny experiments” and traditional goal-setting, why curiosity and subjectivity matter, and how experimentation can be a form of personal liberation. She shares stories of YouTube failures, Google burnout, meditation trials, medicinal plant walks, and the gr...

In Episode 23 of The Mindform Podcast, Frank Lawton speaks with Ralph Kurz, Stoic mentor and mental trainer, about his journey into Stoicism and how it reshaped his worldview. They trace his path from reading Meditations to joining the College of Stoic Philosophers and facilitating discussions on virtue through the Virtues Project.

Their conversation explores Stoicism beyond its popular image as a set of coping tools, focusing instead on its spiritual depth—particularly the concept of logos and the Stoic aim of aligning with nature through reason and virtue. Ralph shares how this philosophy informs not just thought, bu...

In this episode of The Mindform Podcast, Ryan A. Bush hosts in place of Frank Lawton for a thoughtful conversation with returning guest Lucas Golding. The two explore the nature of the self, drawing from Lucas’s background in meditation and Buddhist philosophy and Ryan’s interest in neuroscience. Together, they question the idea of a fixed identity, examine how language and evolution shape our sense of self, and reflect on what happens when we begin to let go of that illusion.

Mindform is an exclusive membership platform that gives you access to an ever-expanding tool...

In this deep and insightful episode of The Mindform Podcast, host Frank Lawton sits down with bestselling author and communication coach Peter Andrei to unpack the deeper dimensions of effective communication. What begins as a story about Peter’s embarrassing first speech in high school evolves into a powerful conversation about truth, intention, clarity, and influence. Peter shares the transformation of his definition of "effective communication"—from winning debates and contracts to honestly transmitting what’s true within. The conversation weaves through timeless principles such as "As within, so without," and explores how internal clarity creates external clarity. Frank and Pe...

In this compelling episode, Ryan and Frank explore the concept of building a wiser world through systems thinking, psychotechnology, and personal transformation. They touch on systemic dysfunctions (like shareholder-driven capitalism), cultural and political division, the need for wisdom education, and Ryan’s vision for the Mindform app—an immersive, gamified platform for developing practical wisdom.

Frank and Ryan challenge dystopian thinking and propose alternatives rooted in measurable self-betterment, parenting reform, and “sapient societies” built around values, not just profits. This episode weaves between philosophical depth and actionable innovation, offering a visionary yet grounded discussion on societal redesign and indi...

In this thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation, host Frank Lawton speaks with Thomas D. Zweifel, leadership expert, author, and strategist, about what it truly means to lead. Zweifel shares his central philosophy: that leadership is not about dominance or status, but about empowering others through conversations of value.

They explore the concept of co-leadership, the Global Leader Pyramid framework (self-awareness, relationship, vision, strategy, and action), and how language shapes reality. Drawing from figures like Martin Buber, Gandhi, Socrates, and Einstein, the conversation weaves together philosophy, personal integrity, and global responsibility.

Zweifel argues that leadership begins with...

In this thoughtful and energizing conversation, John Webster shares his evolving philosophy of wellness—not as a destination, but as a lifelong dance of balance, growth, and action. Drawing on his personal transformation through running, his professional background in law, and his experience hosting a wellness podcast, John introduces his practical framework for well-being: the GET model (Grow, Embrace hard work, Together). Frank and John explore the myth of “work-life balance,” the illusion of chasing a static “perfect state,” and the deep wisdom that comes from listening to your body, your emotions, and your values. This episode is a meaningful...

In this second appearance on The Mindform Podcast, Ariel Strong returns to speak with host Frank Lawton about the rapidly evolving role of AI in society, psychology, and ecological management. Ariel shares insights from her wildfire mitigation work and her mission to democratize AI access through community education and local meetups. The conversation deep-dives into the tension between AI's disruptive power and human systems ill-prepared to manage it. Together, they explore the need for shared intelligence, the limitations of individual learning in a hyperaccelerated world, and the irreplaceable value of collective dialogue.

Mindform is an...

In Part 2, the conversation between Ryan A Bush and Mufakhrul Shah deepens as they examine how morality is developed and enforced. Ryan expands on his wisdom-based ethics, questioning whether rules help or hinder moral growth, while Mufakhrul defends principles as necessary guardrails for a functioning society. They explore whether striving for virtue can replace duty, how to deal with those who reject shared values, and what kind of moral framework leads to a better world. Host Frank Lawton helps navigate this high-level exchange with clarity and curiosity.

Mindform is an exclusive membership platform that gives you access...

Host Frank Lawton moderates a thoughtful and engaging conversation between Ryan A Bush and Mufakhrul Shah on the nature of morality and ethics. Mufakhrul shares a duty-based view rooted in universal principles, while Ryan challenges this with a wisdom-driven approach focused on values, reasoning, and consequences. The discussion explores whether morality is innate or taught, how rules shape ethical behavior, and whether striving for personal virtue is more powerful than following fixed imperatives. This first part sets the stage for a deeper dive in Part 2.

Mindform is an exclusive membership platform that gives you access to an...

On this episode of The Mindform Podcast, host Frank Lawton sits down with Zach Baker to explore the vast and transformative power of active imagination. Zach shares his personal journey into the inner world, uncovering emotional landscapes, building the ideal self, and navigating the unconscious through symbolic imagery. Together, they discuss how working with the imagination can heal old wounds, strengthen the true self, and help people live with deeper purpose and clarity. Frank and Zach also guide listeners through a powerful meditation exercise designed to open new pathways of awareness.

Mindform is an exclusive membership platform...

In this episode of The Mindform Podcast, host Frank Lawton welcomes back scientist and music lover Kyle Douglas, returning since his appearance in Episode 3. This time, the conversation centers around the transformative power of sound, vibration, and the human voice. Kyle unpacks how frequency and resonance can be used as tools for nervous system regulation, emotional release, and inner alignment. They explore voice work as a pathway to embodied healing, the science behind vibrational medicine, and the role of sound in reshaping identity and presence. A grounded yet expansive dialogue, this episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about...

In this Mindform Podcast episode, Frank Lawton speaks with executive coach and secular Buddhist Mike Verhey about leadership, psychology, and personal growth. They explore how coaching helps individuals move from insight to action by asking the right questions rather than giving direct advice. Mike shares his AAA model—awareness, approach, and action—as a guide for meaningful change. He discusses the impact of integral theory in leadership, the role of perspective-shifting in problem-solving, and how mindfulness and Stoicism shape his coaching. They also examine the evolving overlap between coaching and therapy, emphasizing the importance of framing the right questions for...

In this episode of The Mindform Podcast, host Frank Lawton welcomes Julian Eger-Benninger, a deep thinker based in Germany. The conversation delves into the concept of transformational change, exploring how emotional learning and memory reconsolidation can lead to profound personal growth. Julian shares insights from his experiences in mindfulness practices, including the therapeutic approach of focusing and the importance of compassionate inquiry in understanding and processing emotions. The discussion emphasizes the significance of relationships and community in facilitating emotional healing and transformation. Listeners are encouraged to engage with their feelings, practice mindfulness, and seek supportive environments to foster their...

In this episode, Frank Lawton and Ryan A. Bush explore eudaimonia, the deep well-being that comes from aligning actions with values. Ryan explains Virtue Self-Signaling Theory, which ties happiness to the brain’s self-appraisal system—our innate mechanism for evaluating our own actions. This system influences serotonin levels, shaping confidence, motivation, and long-term fulfillment. The discussion covers mindfulness, cultural influences on self-evaluation, and the balance between contemplation and action. Ryan emphasizes that true satisfaction comes from strengthening personal virtues rather than seeking external validation.

Mindform is an exclusive membership platform that gives you access to an ever-expanding tool...

This episode explores the transformative power of Stoicism, focusing on how philosophical principles shape resilience, emotional control, and personal growth. Ryan L, a key member of the Mindform community, shares his journey from personal tragedy to a life guided by Stoic wisdom. He discusses the dichotomy of control, emphasizing the importance of focusing only on what’s within our power.

The conversation delves into practical Stoic techniques, such as negative visualization, voluntary discomfort, and the view from above, illustrating how these tools help manage anxiety, stress, and adversity. Ryan also highlights the connection between Stoicism and cognitive be...

In this thought-provoking episode, Frank Lawton welcomes physical therapist and psychology enthusiast Jimmy Norris for a deep dive into the interplay between personal growth and self-acceptance. Together, they explore how storytelling and metaphor shape impactful communication, the challenge of translating abstract ideas into tangible change, and the role of mindfulness in emotional regulation. Jimmy shares insights from his own journey, touching on his commitment to sobriety, the transformative power of reframing thoughts, and how playfulness can be a key to unlocking deeper presence and joy in life. The conversation also delves into the balance between discipline and flow—how st...

Frank Lawton speaks with John Warriner about the connection between self-improvement, psychology, and regenerative systems. John, an ecological engineer, explains how solving environmental and technical issues requires understanding human behavior. They discuss leadership, teamwork, and the idea of communities committed to everyone's flourishing. John challenges the 51% majority rule in democracy, advocating for decision-making based on broader consensus. They also explore how technology can enhance participatory governance and the shift from individualism to collective well-being.

Mindform is an exclusive membership platform that gives you access to an ever-expanding toolkit for mental mastery and a community of p...

In this episode, host Frank Lawton sits down with Brandy C to explore the power of authenticity, self-love, and values-based living. They discuss the balance between structure and freedom, the challenges of neurodiversity, and the deep impact of choosing who we share our true selves with. Brandy shares her personal journey of self-acceptance, the struggle of trying to fit into societal expectations, and how embracing her true nature transformed her life. Together, they examine the fine line between masking as a tool versus masking as a shield, the importance of intentional relationships, and why true personal growth starts with...

In this episode of The Mindform Podcast, host Frank Lawton welcomes Lucas Golding, a long-time meditator and mindfulness practitioner. They discuss Lucas’s journey of meditating daily for 17 years, the insights he has gained, and how it has transformed his life. Key topics include the nature of mindfulness, the difference between reacting and responding, the paradox of desire, and the impact of meditation on awareness, compassion, and personal growth. Lucas shares his reflections on the Four Noble Truths of Buddhism, the power of presence, and how suffering can deepen our connection with others. The conversation concludes with a powerful me...

In this episode of The Mindform Podcast, host Frank Lawton sits down with Vinh Tran to explore the power of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and personal transformation. Vinh shares his journey of self-discovery, revealing how moments of deep emotional pain led him to confront his past and reshape his mindset. They discuss the surprising connection between childhood experiences and present-day reactions, the role of mindfulness in emotional processing, and why true growth is not just about learning new habits—but unlearning old ones. The conversation dives into practical techniques like sitting with discomfort, recognizing emotional flashbacks, and using awareness as a...

In this episode, Frank Lawton interviews Ariel Strong, a founding member of the Mindform community and a certified wildfire mitigation specialist. The conversation weaves through topics such as integrating intuition with analytics, finding meaning in one’s work, and the psychology of encouraging others to act on climate resilience. Ariel shares her journey from firefighting to drone mapping and data analytics, detailing how personal experiences, like protecting her mother from wildfire threats, sparked a new career direction. The episode concludes with a profound exploration of finding purpose through action, even when outcomes seem uncertain, and a discussion on staying op...

In this engaging episode of the Mindform Podcast, host Frank Lawton talks with guest Kyle Douglas about his journey through music, science, and self-improvement. Kyle shares how his passion for sound healing bridges his analytical background in biotechnology with his creative spirit, offering insights into the power of sound to promote relaxation and healing. They delve into themes like the hero’s journey, the intersection of mysticism and science, and the importance of authenticity in pursuing one’s calling. The conversation also highlights Kyle's personal experiences with self-improvement, journaling, and community support in shaping his approach to personal growth.

In this episode, host Frank welcomes guest Trevor to share his personal journey with ADHD. Trevor reflects on the paradox of thriving in chaotic environments while struggling with routine and structure, offering unique insights into how his neurodivergence shapes his daily life. Together, they discuss practical strategies like using scaffolding to manage tasks, creating emotional "moats" to pause reactive tendencies, and cultivating kindness toward oneself and others.

Trevor introduces concepts such as future self-compassion, explaining how small actions—like putting away keys—can reduce future stress. He also emphasizes the transformative power of kindness in parenting, work, and...

In this episode of The Mindform Podcast, host Frank Lawton welcomes Ryan Bush, creator of Mindform and author of Become Who You Are. Together, they delve into the concept of "psychotechnologies" and how tools for the mind can foster personal growth, happiness, and resilience. Ryan shares his vision for reframing mental health, moving from a stigmatized struggle to an empowering, gamified journey akin to fitness.

The conversation touches on the importance of reappraisal as a way to transform negative emotions, the role of storytelling in movements and religion, and how designing tools like apps can make self-improvement...