Season 1

Special Episode - Exploring Acceptance Commitment Therapy and Mindfulness - one on one with John Emilio

In this conversation, Anthony interviews John about his journey with acceptance, commitment therapy, and mindfulness. John explains that his interest in these practices was sparked by his experience with obsessive-compulsive disorder. He describes acceptance commitment therapy as a form of therapy that teaches individuals how to accept and make committed choices towards their values, rather than being controlled by their thoughts and emotions. John shares how long it took him  to gain a good handle on Acceptance using these techniques. He also discusses how these practices have changed his life for the better and why he is passionate about sharing them with others through his book and podcast. Special thanks to Anthony Lisi for agreeing to do this interview. 

Episode 76 - Faith Beyond Stories and Labels

The conversation explores the importance of mindfulness and awareness in today's society. It discusses how life has become easier in terms of practicality, but the mind has more time to worry and create issues. The hosts emphasize the need for awareness to navigate through life and not get caught up in the manipulation tactics of the media. They also touch on the idea that suffering is a choice and that carrying the metaphorical cross of life can be reframed. The conversation concludes by highlighting the importance of collaboration and the role of mindfulness in mental health. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the concept of faith and the power of belief. They explore the idea that faith can be found in both religious and mindfulness practices, and that it is not dependent on a specific story or label. They emphasize the importance of forgiveness, healing, and awareness in both paths. The hosts also touch on the topics of suffering, the nature of time, and the significance of living in the present moment. Overall, the conversation highlights the interconnectedness of different belief systems and the importance of finding a path that resonates with each individual.

Episode 75 - The Deeper Meaning of Gratitude

Today John Henry and Anthony's conversation explores the topic of gratitude and its different meanings. The hosts discuss the traditional definition of gratitude as being thankful for what one has and appreciating the people and things in one's life. They also delve into the spiritual perspective of gratitude, which focuses on being grateful for the present moment and one's awareness. They explore how gratitude goes beyond being thankful for what you have and extends to being grateful for the present moment and the ability to be aware and mindful. The hosts also touch on the physiological effects of gratitude, such as the release of dopamine and the reduction of stress hormones. Overall, the conversation highlights the transformative power of gratitude and its role in cultivating a more positive and fulfilling life. We also discuss finding enjoyment in the process rather than just focusing on completing tasks. They discuss the balance between mindfulness and practicality, acknowledging that there are times when deadlines and societal expectations need to be met.  

Episode 74 - Persuasion with Mindfulness

In this conversation, the hosts discuss the importance of mindfulness and self-awareness in sales and business. They emphasize the power of active listening and understanding the needs and priorities of clients. They also explore the role of persuasion in sales, highlighting the difference between using persuasion with mindfulness versus without. The hosts share personal experiences and examples to illustrate the impact of mindfulness and self-awareness in building trust and long-term relationships with clients. In this conversation, the hosts discuss the power of mindfulness and self-awareness in navigating life's challenges. They explore the concept of wiping the mind clean and starting with a clean slate, and how this can lead to personal growth and transformation. They also touch on the importance of accepting and embracing change, even if it means losing friendships or facing consequences. The hosts share personal anecdotes and techniques for managing anxiety and negative thoughts, emphasizing the need to separate oneself from these thoughts and not give them power. They discuss the applicability of mindfulness in dealing with PTSD and how it can help ground individuals in the present moment. Overall, the conversation highlights the importance of self-awareness, mindfulness, and making conscious choices in order to live a more fulfilling life.

Episode 73 - Breaking the Stigma: Men's Mental Health

In this episode of The Universal Lens, the hosts discuss the importance of men's mental health and the societal pressures that prevent men from seeking help. They explore the programming and social structures that contribute to the stigma around men's mental health and the need for men to be strong and stoic. They emphasize the importance of men opening up and seeking support from friends, therapists, or religious leaders. The hosts also discuss the need to redefine what it means to be a man and break free from societal expectations. They highlight the importance of mindfulness and acceptance in navigating mental health challenges. In this part of the conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of acceptance in dealing with traumatic thoughts and experiences. They emphasize that accepting these thoughts does not mean surrendering or giving up, but rather acknowledging their presence without allowing them to control one's life. They also explore the connection between acceptance and PTSD, highlighting the role of memories and triggers in causing distress. The speakers discuss the limitations of talk therapy and the benefits of acceptance and mindfulness in managing PTSD symptoms. They also touch on the challenges faced by individuals in high-stress professions, such as the military and law enforcement, when transitioning to civilian life. In this final part of the conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of sharing knowledge and experiences to help others. They compare finding a solution to a buried treasure and emphasize the desire to pass on that knowledge to help others. They also discuss the challenges of opening up about mental health issues, particularly in certain professions. They highlight the importance of self-awareness and recognizing the need for help. They also discuss the difficulty of breaking out of societal expectations and the importance of not identifying oneself solely with a job or role. They encourage reaching out for support and resources and emphasize the need to break free from societal stigmas and labels.

Episode 72 - The Power of Choice in your Mental Health, A Deep Dive into Suicide

The conversation delves into the topic of mental health, suicide, and the power of choice in the face of adversity. It explores the impact of negative thoughts, the importance of engaging in life, and the choice to move forward despite challenges. The conversation emphasizes the need for open dialogue and vulnerability in addressing mental health issues. It explores the importance of recognizing and managing one's thoughts, as well as the role of therapy in addressing mental health challenges. The conversation also touches on the significance of understanding the nature of thoughts and emotions, especially in the context of children's emotional development. John Henry and Anthony delve into the impact of societal pressures and emotional attachment, the importance of embracing a range of emotions, the role of passion and identity, and the practice of meditation as a tool for mental well-being. It also addresses the need for parental support and the significance of seeking professional help in critical situations.

Episode 70 - Choosing Empathy and Mindfulness over Ego in PATRIOTIC Conversations

Today we discuss the importance of detaching from ego in order to be able to have conversations not argument's. We explore the idea that society is programmed to fight and argue over political beliefs, and emphasize the need for mindful conversations without attachment to personal biases. They also touch on the concept of free will and how humans are continuously programmable beings.  We explore the importance of awareness and mindfulness in navigating political and patriotic discussions. It emphasizes the need to have conversations with open-mindedness and empathy, rather than reacting with anger or defensiveness. They highlight the potential for individuals to create positive change in the world by cultivating awareness and making mindful choices. The conversation concludes with a cameo of Johns newest addition to the family, their new Puppy Milo.... 

Episode 69 -Letting Go of Ego: The Key to Truly Living

Sitting in for Henry Beltra this week again is my good friend and future addition to the show Anthony Lisi. We discuss the concept of living life to the fullest and not waiting until a life-altering event to appreciate life. They also explore the role of ego and how it can hold people back from truly living.  They highlight the fleeting nature of life and the need to have awareness so you can live life presently and not for the next moment only. People often say later in life how it went by in a blink. That is a direct cause of following the mind and not watching it. The conversation explores the concept of mindfulness and the importance of observing one's thoughts rather than attaching to them. It emphasizes the practice of acceptance and moving on from negative experiences. The hosts discuss the potential benefits of teaching mindfulness to children from a young age and how it can lead to a mentally aware and emotionally resilient population. They also touch on the idea of not allowing emotions to overpower rational thinking and the importance of lowering the temperature in conflicts.

Episode 68 - The Inner Voice: A Filter for Decision-Making

Today we explore the concept of the inner voice or conscious voice and how it guides decision-making. The inner voice is described as a feeling or knowing rather than an actual voice. It is the filter that helps filter out the noise and make choices that align with one's genuine desires and values. The importance of awareness and mindfulness in connecting with the inner voice is emphasized. Following the inner voice may not always lead to the easiest path, but it is the path that aligns with one's true self.  We discuss the importance of listening to your intuition and explain that the internal conscious voice is the one that gives you answers and guidance, while the mind is filled with various voices and opinions. We emphasize that it's crucial to filter out the noise and tune into your intuition, which always has your best interests at heart.We also highlight the power of choice and the ability to change your path in life based on what genuinely feels right to you

Episode 67- DO you GOT TO or DO you GET TO ?

In this conversation, John and Henry discuss their experience of witnessing a solar eclipse and reflect on the importance of taking time to appreciate the wonders of the universe. They emphasize the need to be present and mindful in order to fully experience life and reframe negative situations. they discuss the theory of GOT TO or GET TO, the privilege of being alive and the opportunity to make the most of each day. They also discuss as always the importance of mindfulness and awareness in navigating life's challenges. They emphasize the power of choice and the ability to decide how to perceive and respond to situations. They also explore the concept of the intuitive voice and the importance of listening to it which is the basis of Johns Coaching . The conversation touches on the benefits of therapy and the role of acceptance in finding peace and living a fulfilling life. John also encourages listeners to read his book, which offers practical guidance on mindfulness and changing perspectives.