You were told this world was real. That flesh was truth. That gravity meant something.

But what if none of it was supposed to happen?

This is the dream.

The broken one.

Welcome to Sophia’s Dream - the story of a divine feminine being who reached too far, fell too hard, and accidentally gave birth to a blind god who built this world like a prison with beautiful wallpaper. His name is Yaldabaoth. He thinks he’s God. He’s not. He’s just the architect of your forgetting.

This isn’t spirituality. It’s myth with teeth. It’s philosophy with blood under its fingernails. It’s consciousness trapped inside a loop, screaming to remember what it is.

You're not just in the dream. You are the dream.

And the dream is watching you back.

We talk recursion. Cosmic code. The observer and the observed. Why pain keeps repeating. Why you can’t stop thinking there’s something behind the curtain. Why waking up hurts like hell - and why you still have to do it.

If you’ve ever looked around and thought, “This can’t be all there is”, you’re already halfway out.

This episode won’t save you. It’ll make you remember you were never lost.

Much love, David

We cheer the hero. We hiss at the villain. But what if we've had it backwards all along?

In this episode of The Observing I, we dig deep into the ethics of monsters, and uncover the uncomfortable truth: villains might be the only ones telling it like it is. From Dostoevsky’s Grand Inquisitor to Killmonger, Tyler Durden, Joker, and Walter White, we peel back the polite layers of morality and ask “who gets to be the hero, and who gets exiled for telling the truth?”.

This episode is not about justifying evil. It's about exposing the hypocrisy in our heroes, the selective morality of modern storytelling, and the monsters we bury inside ourselves to stay “good.” Through psychological and philosophical lenses - Jung, Nietzsche, utilitarianism, and narrative propaganda - we confront the darker mirror of the human psyche.

This is your warning: we’re not pulling punches. No capes. No redemption arcs. Just raw truth and ethical dissonance bleeding under the spotlight.

Forget good versus evil. This is truth versus comfort, and only one walks out.

My microphone has died, so I had to record this one on the iPad. That means the audio is a bit choppy but, fear not, a new mic is on it’s way. Next week we’ll be back to the usual levels of compression.

Much love, David

In this episode, we’re diving headfirst into the philosophical minefield of Artificial General Intelligence (AGI). This isn’t just about robots and algorithms; this is about us- what AGI learns from humanity, what it means for the future, and whether we’re ready for the world we’re creating.

We’re tackling the big questions. If AGI learns morality by watching us, does it inherit our flaws? Could it outgrow its teachers and decide humanity is more liability than asset? And if AGI does everything we do, what’s left for us?

We’ll explore Ian M. Banks’ Culture series - a vision of a universe where AGI Minds run entire civilizations and humans are left to play, create, or simply drift. Is this the best-case scenario, or a future where our freedom is an illusion, handed to us by machines that know better?

This is more than a discussion about technology - it’s a conversation about what it means to be human in a world where machines don’t just follow orders; they think for themselves. Will AGI save us, replace us, or make us irrelevant?

Much love,David

In this episode, I’m talking about how we can be more focused on the process of “doing” rather than on the outcome, the things that are in our locus of control, and what causes us to be so focused on goals anyway.

Much love, David

In this episode, I go on about purpose and meaning, what it is that we need as human beings to be able to understand where we sit in the context of our existence, and some things to think about if you’re struggling with the zeitgeist.

Much love, David

In this episode, I’m cramming in as much as I can on relationships into about 13 minutes. Seeing as we’ve just had Valentine’s Day. I touch on empathy, emotional maturity, shared values, and expectations. Not that I’m an expert.

Much love, David

In this episode, I’m talking about how to spot those warning signs of stress before it goes too far, and how I manage it.

Remember, pay attention.

Much love, David

In this episode, I’m talking about shaping our internal narrative, the factors that can influence our perspective, and having agency in curating our values and authenticity.

Much love, David

In this episode, I’m talking about what I believe makes a good meditation practice, and some things to think about if you’re getting into meditation.

If you have any questions about getting into meditation, drop some comments below, or message me directly at david@theobservingi.com.

Much love, David

In this episode, I’m talking about the difference between observation and perception, how our own prejudices and preconceptions overlay what we experience, and what we can do to change that.

Not a direct reference to Aldous Huxley’s fabled psilocybin trip.

Much love, David

In this episode, I’ll be talking about letting go of the outcome and focusing on the process. Recognising what we can control and what we can’t. And why we shouldn’t try to divert a river using only our hands.

I actually managed to stick to the deadline for this episode! It was touch and go there for a minute, this week’s been a bit hectic.

Much love, David

It’s finally here. Episode 1 of the Observing I podcast. I’m talking about resolutions, personal growth, and procrastination in this one. Along with trying to find my feet with it all.

I’ll be doing my damnedest to get a fresh one out for you every Friday, so keep your eyes peeled and your ears open.

Much love, David

Here’s the pitch: What if every religion you’ve ever heard of, every sacred story, every whispered prayer, was just a shard of broken glass? Each one catching the light, but none of them showing you the whole picture. That’s Omnism. The belief that truth isn’t neat or whole - it’s shattered.

In this episode of The Observing I, we go scavenging. Through ancient texts and modern questions, through the chaos of conflicting theologies, we try to make sense of the mess. We talk history. We talk philosophy. We talk about what happens when you stop clinging to one answer and start seeing the connections between all of them.

Omnism doesn’t give you peace. It doesn’t promise certainty. It’s messy. It’s uncomfortable. But it’s also freeing. It forces you to build your own spirituality from the pieces you find, to see the sacred in places you’d never think to look.

So, if you’re ready to let go of the answers and start asking better questions, hit play. Just be warned: Once you see the world this way, there’s no unseeing it.

Much love,David

First episode of 2025, and we're not f*****g around. We're going straight into Philip K. Dick's Exegesis. Eight thousand pages of late-night scrawling where one of sci-fi's most unhinged geniuses tried to figure out what the hell happened to him in 1974.

Dick had a vision. Or a breakdown. Maybe both. For the rest of his life, he couldn't stop writing about it. Obsessively circling questions about reality, God, time, whether we're living in ancient Rome with a corporate skin stretched over it, and whether his own mind had shattered into pieces or expanded into something else entirely.

We're looking at how Dick's personal unraveling, or awakening, depending on your perspective, bled into everything he wrote. Ubik warps reality until you don't know what's solid anymore. VALIS turns the search for God into a paranoid detective story. His fiction became the testing ground for ideas too weird for philosophy departments but too persistent to ignore.

And here's the thing: Dick's questions hit different now. We're building AIs that might be conscious. We're half-serious about living in a simulation. The world feels more fake every day. Dick was asking "What is real?" before it became our daily condition.

This isn't about answers. Dick didn't have them, and neither do we. But if you want to sit with the discomfort of not knowing, if you're drawn to the big metaphysical questions that won't leave you alone, or if you just want to understand why this dead sci-fi writer still matters, this one's for you.

We're going into the Exegesis. Bring a flashlight.

Much love, David x

PS: Buy my book - https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0D54FV5D5

In today's episode, we're talking about Immanuel Kant, the philosopher with ideas so big, they’re still shaping how we think centuries later. We take a deep yet approachable dive into Kant’s life, his revolutionary ideas, and his surprisingly modern legacy.

Join us as we explore his daily routine of clockwork precision, his ground-breaking “Copernican Revolution” in philosophy, and his ethical framework that challenges us to act with universal respect. We also tackle his reflections on beauty and the sublime, debunk popular myths about his work, and uncover how Kant became a favourite of pop culture and meme creators alike.

Whether you're a seasoned philosopher or a curious beginner, this episode offers fresh insights into why Kant remains one of history’s greatest thinkers, and why his ideas are more relevant. Hit play and step into the mind of the original over thinker.

Much love,David

Exploring Becker’s central ideas, we uncover how the awareness of mortality shapes human behaviour, fuels creativity, and drives us to seek meaning in a transient world.

Join us as we examine heroic projects, the role of culture and religion in coping with death anxiety, and the dark consequences of avoiding mortality - from tribalism to perfectionism. We also dive into the critiques of Becker’s work and discuss how his ideas remain deeply relevant in today’s age of consumerism, technology, and social media.

More importantly, we look at what it means to authentically embrace mortality. How can facing our fears of death liberate us from distractions and bring greater clarity, purpose, and connection to our lives?

Much love,David

He's also one of the few living philosophers that we've covered so far (the other being Alain de Botton, go check out that episode as well).

Have you ever felt that time is slipping away from you whilst simultaneously piling up like a never ending quagmire? Like reality itself has become a fragmented, chaotic rush of content, to-dos, and things vying for your attention? This is the essence of Rushkoff's idea Present Shock, and it's reshaping how we experience time, connection, and meaning in the digital age.

We'll explore Rushkoff's ideas of narrative collapse, digiphrenia, and overwinding, and the impact that these have on our mental health, relationships, and sense of purpose. We'll get into the philosophical and psychological side of these ideas (quelle surprise), and offer some advice on how to handle that gnawing sense of Present Shock.

Discover how to slow down, reconnect with what truly matters, and live with intention in a world that seems designed to pull us apart.

Subscribe to The Observing I for more insights into philosophy, psychology, and the human experience.

If you like what you hear, there's a book I wrote that goes alongside the podcast called "The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life". You can buy it on Amazon.

Listen to the podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcasting app.

Much love, David

What if a demon could teach you philosophy? In today's episode, we delve into the world of Buer, the Demon of Philosophy, as described in the Ars Goetia. Known for his teachings in moral philosophy, natural sciences, and medicine, Buer is more than just a demon - he’s a symbol of humanity’s complex relationship with knowledge.

We'll explore Buer’s historical and symbolic significance, the ethical dilemmas of summoning him, and his surprising relevance in the modern world. From the risks of forbidden knowledge to the moral grey areas of modern technology and medicine, this episode unravels the timeless questions Buer raises about power, wisdom, and responsibility.

Would you summon Buer to gain his wisdom? And what might you be willing to risk in the pursuit of truth? Join us for a journey into philosophy, demonology, and the human condition.

Subscribe to The Observing I for more insights into philosophy, psychology, and the human experience.

If you like what you hear, there's a book I wrote that goes alongside the podcast called "The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life". You can buy it on Amazon at

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Observing-Guide-Living-More-Authentic-ebook/dp/B0D54FV5D5/

Listen to the podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcasting app.

Much love,David

In today’s episode, we’re getting into the voxel world of Minecraft. Far more than just a video game, Minecraft stands as a mirror to the human experience. It challenges us to consider very human ideas of purpose, creativity, and resilience.

Through the lens of philosophy and psychology, we’ll look at what this creative sandbox can teach us about existential freedom, the inevitability of loss, and the human condition.

📔 If you like what you hear, there's a book I wrote that goes alongside the podcast called "The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life". You can buy it on Amazon at

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Observing-Guide-Living-More-Authentic-ebook/dp/B0D54FV5D5/

🎙️ Listen to the podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcasting app.

Much love,David

What does it mean to craft a set of beliefs and values that truly reflect who you are? Why is it important in today’s fast-paced, often chaotic world? And how can it help you navigate life with more clarity, purpose, and resilience?

Join me as we dive deep into the process of developing a personal philosophy, the challenges you might face along the way, and how to bring it to life in your everyday actions. Whether you’re looking to gain more self-awareness, make intentional decisions, or simply understand yourself better, this episode will inspire you to take the first steps toward creating your own inner compass.

Tune in to explore how a personal philosophy can help you live with authenticity and meaning - not just today, but for a lifetime.

Much love,David

While Marcus Aurelius, Seneca, and Epictetus practiced Stoicism as a guide to ethical living, duty, and interconnectedness, today’s interpretations frequently reduce it to a toolkit for personal resilience and self-mastery, often leaving out its core values of community and service.

Join me as we go back to the roots of Stoicism to uncover what’s been lost in translation. We’ll examine how ancient Stoicism emphasised humility, compassion, and collective responsibility, and we’ll discuss practical ways to bring these values back into our lives. If you’re looking to move beyond individual self-improvement and embrace Stoicism as a path to living with greater purpose, connection, and service to others, this episode is for you.

🔔 Subscribe to The Observing I for more insights into philosophy, psychology, and the human experience.

📔 If you like what you hear, there's a book I wrote that goes alongside the podcast called "The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life". You can buy it on Amazon at

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Observing-Guide-Living-More-Authentic-ebook/dp/B0D54FV5D5/

🎙️ Listen to the podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcasting app.

Much love,David

What if everything you think you are is just a performance? A glitch. A mask. A beautifully rehearsed hallucination mistaken for truth.

In this episode of The Observing I, we dive deep into the architecture of the ego - how it forms, why it lies, and what happens when it collapses.

We begin with Narcissus, not as a symbol of vanity, but as a child starving for recognition. Then we break open Lacan’s Mirror Stage to reveal how our earliest sense of self is built on a fundamental misidentification. We explore the ego as interface, a lifelong performance we mistake for personality. And we descend into the terrifying, liberating silence of ego death.

This episode is about the hunger to be someone, the courage to be no one, and the wisdom to dance between the two.

If you’ve ever felt like a stranger in your own thoughts, this one is for you.

Much love, David

In today's episode, we delve into the ancient world of Merkabah mysticism. Originally rooted in early Jewish mystical practices, the Merkabah—meaning “chariot”—has captivated spiritual seekers, philosophers, and even modern New Age practitioners for centuries. But what is the Merkabah, really? Is it a symbolic pathway to the divine, a powerful tool for psychic awakening, or even a connection to realms beyond our own?

Join me as we explore the mystery of the Merkabah, uncovering its sacred geometry, its use in magical practices, and its surprising connections to extra-terrestrial theories.

🌟 And just to let you know, we won the Hubhopper Podcast Awards 2024 for the best in Health and Wellness category, so a huge thank you to everyone who voted for us and gave their support. Your efforts are hugely appreciated.

🔔 Subscribe to The Observing I for more insights into philosophy, psychology, and the human experience.

📔 If you like what you hear, there's a book I wrote that goes alongside the podcast called "The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life". You can buy it on Amazon at https://www.amazon.co.uk/Observing-Guide-Living-More-Authentic-ebook/dp/B0D54FV5D5/

🎙️ Listen to the podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcasting app.

Much love,David

Today, we're doing a high speed birds-eye view of the major philosophies from the pre-Socratic philosophers like Thales and Pythagoras, through the middle ages, into the renaissance and enlightenment, and all the way up to the contemporary philosophers of the 21st century.

We'll look at how philosophy has changed over the years, and how it's both influenced the society of the times and been influenced by it. And we touch on a bit of contemporary philosophy, and how our zeitgeist has altered how we think about our world.

🔔 Subscribe to The Observing I for more insights into philosophy, psychology, and the human experience.

📔 If you like what you hear, there's a book I wrote that goes alongside the podcast called "The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life". You can buy it on Amazon at https://www.amazon.co.uk/Observing-Guide-Living-More-Authentic-ebook/dp/B0D54FV5D5/

🎙️ Listen to the podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcasting app.

Much love,David

In today's episode, we take a deep dive into the darker side of self-help culture. While the self-help industry promises growth, success, and happiness, it can also set unrealistic expectations, create toxic perfectionism, and leave us feeling more isolated than empowered.

We’ll explore the false promise of quick fixes, the overwhelming pressure to constantly improve, and the commercialization of personal growth. I also dive into the mental health risks of self-help, including the dangers of toxic positivity and the emotional toll of false hope.

Join me as we discuss how to engage with self-help mindfully—balancing hope with realism and understanding the value of seeking support, embracing life’s messiness, and accepting yourself along the way.

If you’ve ever felt disillusioned by self-help’s grand promises, this episode offers a more grounded perspective on how to navigate personal growth without falling into its traps.

🔔 Subscribe to The Observing I for more insights into philosophy, psychology, and the human experience.

📔 If you like what you hear, there's a book I wrote that goes alongside the podcast called "The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life".

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Observing-Guide-Living-More-Authentic-ebook/dp/B0D54FV5D5/

🎙️ Listen to the podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favourite podcasting app.

Much love,David

💡 Don't forget, we've been nominated in the Hubhopper 2024 Podcast Awards for the "Best in Health and Wellness" category. You can cast your vote for us here:

https://community.hubhopper.com/best-health-and-wellness

Today, we'll look at the relationship between thoughts, identity, and self-perception, and the contrasts of Western philosophies, like Descartes' "I think, therefore I am," with Eastern views, such as Buddhism's concept of the self as an illusion.

We'll discuss how our minds filter sensory data and shape our realities, often trapping us in limiting narratives, and the influence that our unconscious mind has on the nature of free will.

Lastly, we'll look at mindfulness as a tool to observe thoughts without attachment, and how that can create a deeper understanding of the self beyond our mental constructs.

💡 Don't forget, we've been nominated in the Hubhopper 2024 Podcast Awards for the "Best in Health and Wellness" category. You can cast your vote for us here - https://community.hubhopper.com/best-health-and-wellness

If you like what you hear, there's a book I wrote that goes alongside the podcast called "The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life".

You can buy it on Amazon at https://www.amazon.co.uk/Observing-Guide-Living-More-Authentic-ebook/dp/B0D54FV5D5/

Much love,David

Thanks for reading The Observing I! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.

In today’s episode, we’ll break down the four traits that make up this shadowy quartet: Narcissism, Machiavellianism, Psychopathy, and Sadism.

But we’re not just here to talk theory—we’ll explore how these traits show up in real life, from personal relationships to workplace dynamics, and offer practical strategies for protecting yourself when you come across someone who thrives on manipulation, control, or emotional detachment.

If you like what you hear, there's a book I wrote that goes alongside the podcast called "The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life". You can buy it on Amazon at

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Observing-Guide-Living-More-Authentic-ebook/dp/B0D54FV5D5/

Much love,David

Thanks for reading The Observing I! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.

Narcissists can leave us feeling emotionally drained, manipulated, and doubting our own reality - but it doesn’t have to be this way.

Join me as we dive deep into understanding narcissistic behaviour, the emotional toll it can take, and most importantly, practical strategies to protect your mental health. We’ll cover setting boundaries, avoiding power struggles, and balancing empathy with self-care.

Drawing on philosophical insights, like non-attachment, and therapeutic approaches like Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) and Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT), this episode offers both practical advice and deeper reflections to help you regain control and emotional resilience.

And, of course, there's the usual sponsor, which is my book "The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life". You can buy it on Amazon here

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Observing-Guide-Living-More-Authentic-ebook/dp/B0D54FV5D5/

Much loveDavid

As you're having to wait until Sunday for the next episode rather than Friday, here's a bonus episode where I tell the Greek myth of Narcissus and Echo (because it seemed quite relevant to our topic of How to deal with a Narcissist that'll be out on September 29th). I hope you enjoy it.

Much love, David

Discover how this philosophy invites us to let go of the need to control and force outcomes, and instead, flow with life’s natural rhythms.

We’ll dive into how wu wei applies to modern challenges like burnout, creativity, and mindfulness, and discuss the powerful psychological benefits of surrender and trust. If you’re looking for more ease, clarity, and peace in your life, this episode offers insights and practical tools to help you stop pushing so hard and start living with more flow.

And, of course, this episode is sponsored by my book "The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life", which you can buy on Amazon here:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/Observing-Guide-Living-More-Authentic/dp/B0D67CFVVK/

Much love,David

In this episode, we’ll dive into their philosophical roots, psychological impact, and modern relevance in areas like politics, technology, and mental health. I’ll also share personal reflections on how these concepts play out in daily life and discuss spiritual practices that help bridge the gap between them.

Join me as we explore how embracing both duality and unity can lead to deeper peace, connection, and compassion.

This episode is, once again, sponsored by my book ⁠⁠⁠The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life⁠⁠⁠, which is available now on Kindle and in paperback from Amazon.

Much love,David

Thanks for reading The Observing I! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.

From philosophical perspectives like existentialism and Stoicism to modern challenges such as social injustice, mental health, and the impact of technology, we examine why pain is an inevitable part of the human experience.

We also discuss how suffering can inspire creativity, foster empathy, and even lead to personal growth. Join us on this journey to discover how we can find meaning, resilience, and purpose in our darkest moments.

This episode is sponsored by my book ⁠⁠⁠The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life⁠⁠⁠, available now on Kindle and in paperback from Amazon.

Much love, David

What if the most important thing you’ll ever do isn’t think, achieve, or succeed - but truly meet another human being?

In this episode of The Observing I, we dive into the radical, soul-exposing philosophy of Martin Buber - Jewish mystic, existential rebel, and the man who shattered Western individualism with two words: I and Thou. From mystical Hasidic tales to the sacred silence between two people who dare to be real, Buber’s work challenges everything we think we know about selfhood, love, God, and the art of being present in a world addicted to performance.

This isn’t just a philosophy. It’s a way of seeing. And maybe, if you let it, it’s a way back to being fully alive.

Much love, David

Psychological warfare isn’t about guns, tanks, or bombs. It’s about winning the war for the mind. It’s the art of influencing thoughts, emotions, and behaviours using tactics like propaganda, misinformation, and emotional manipulation.

In this episode, we'll explore what psychological warfare is, why it's so effective, the ethical implications of using it, and some tools and techniques that you can try at home to keep you safe from the agents of MK Ultra.

This episode is sponsored by my book ⁠⁠The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life⁠⁠, available now on Kindle and in paperback from Amazon.

Much love, David

Thanks for reading The Observing I! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.

He’s been called the father of psychoanalysis, the man who brought the unconscious mind to the forefront of our understanding of human behaviour. His ideas about dreams, childhood development, and the structure of the mind have left an indelible mark not just on psychology, but on our culture as a whole.

In this episode, we’re going to take a comprehensive look at Freud’s life and work, but we’re not just going to rehash the textbook basics. Instead, we’re going to explore what made Freud such a towering figure in his time, how his theories were shaped by his personal experiences take a deep dive into those theories, and look at the modern criticisms of his work.

This episode is sponsored by my book ⁠The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life⁠, available now on Kindle and in paperback from Amazon.

Much love, David

In today's episode, we're getting down into it with Carl Jung. We go on a deep exploration into his psychology, from dream interpretation, the power of the collective unconscious, and how we can relate to the symbolism of Jungian archetypes.

We'll also take a look at how Jung's influence persists today, and some of the criticisms and controversies surrounding his ideas.

Please also excuse the background crows.

This episode is sponsored by my book ⁠The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life⁠, available now on Kindle and in paperback from Amazon.

Much love, David

In today's episode, we delve into the mysterious intersections between the occult and modern psychology.

From the pioneering theories of Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung to the emergence of transpersonal psychology in the 1960s, we explore how ancient mystical traditions have shaped contemporary psychological practices.

Join us as we discuss compelling case studies, examine both the support and criticism of these influences, and uncover the ways in which the wisdom of the occult continues to offer valuable insights and tools for understanding and healing the human mind.

This episode is sponsored by my book ⁠The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life⁠, available now on Kindle and in paperback from Amazon.

Much love, David

In today's episode, we embark on a chilling journey into the life and mind of the writer H.P. Lovecraft.

We'll explore his personal story and the philosophies behind his writing. We'll look at the psychological methodologies employed in his work, and how these techniques impact us as the reader. Finally, we get a taste of Lovecraft's cosmic horror as I read his short story "Dagon".

This episode is sponsored by my book The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life, available now on Kindle and in paperback from Amazon.

Much love, David

Sleep. Consume. Obey.

We'll be looking at its historical roots, exploring the psychology behind our behaviour in relation to it, the role that advertising and media plays in our consumer culture, and the impact that it can have on our mental health.

I'll also be looking at ways that we can break free from the cycle, and be more considered in our approach to materialism.

This episode is sponsored by my book The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life, available now on Kindle and in paperback from Amazon.

Much love, David

In today’s episode, we’re delving into the life and works of one of the founders of humanistic psychology - Abraham Maslow.

We’ll explore his hierarchy of needs and how it relates to our day to day lives, the influence that it’s had on modern psychology, and the broader impact of his ideas on business, design, and education.

We’ll dive into what it means to “self actualise” and give some examples of how you can work towards it. Plus, I’ll be sharing my own personal reflections on Maslow’s work and how it’s influenced my own life since I discovered it when I was training as a therapist 15 years ago.

It also happens to be my longest episode yet. There’s a lot to say about Maslow and his work. As always, if anything in this episode has resonated with you, I’d love to hear your thoughts.

This episode is sponsored by my new book The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life, available now on Kindle and in paperback from Amazon.

Much love, David

In today’s episode, we’re exploring the nature of authenticity, delving into what it means to live a true and genuine life.

Join us as we unravel the concept of authenticity through the lenses of philosophy, psychology, and theology, and discover what each of these disciplines has to teach us about aligning our actions with our values.

In our final segment, we integrate the insights from philosophy, psychology, and theology to create a holistic understanding of authenticity. Discover how these perspectives converge on key themes such as self-awareness, alignment with true values, and embracing our vulnerabilities. There’s some good lessons to be learned here.

This episode is sponsored by my new book The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life, available now on Kindle and in paperback from Amazon.

Much love, David

In today’s episode, we’re exploring the ways in which narratives shape our minds, influence our beliefs, and connect us to our cultural heritage.

We’ll examine the psychological impact and ideas around storytelling and the human experience, what philosophy has to say on the matter, and the importance of mythology in conveying our cultural history.

We’ll look at how media and technology has changed the landscape of storytelling, including the emergence of transmedia narratives, and we’ll dive into some case studies that show the multifaceted impact that storytelling has had on our society at large.

Stay curious, stay connected, and remember - the stories we tell shape the world we live in.

This episode is sponsored by my new book The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life, available now on Kindle and in paperback from Amazon.

Much love, David

In today’s episode, we’re venturing into the world of embracing our imperfections.

We’ll look at what it means to be imperfect and what philosophy has to say on the matter, from Aristotle’s idea of Eudaimonia to Buddhism’s teachings on impermanence.

We’ll explore what psychology has to teach us about the damaging effects of perfectionism, drawing on the wisdom of Carl Rogers, and the popular CBT framework, to come up with practical strategies for moving away from “getting it right” and having a healthier relationship with ourselves.

Throughout the episode, we emphasise that imperfection is not a barrier but a stepping stone to personal growth, resilience, and genuine happiness. By accepting and celebrating our unique qualities, we can lead a life that is more authentic and in line with our own values.

This episode is sponsored by my new book The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life, available now on Kindle and in paperback from Amazon

Much love, David

Every great story follows a pattern. From Star Wars to The Matrix, from The Lord of the Rings to Harry Potter, we see the same arc: an ordinary person is called to something greater, faces trials, descends into darkness, and returns transformed.

This isn’t just a formula for storytelling - it’s a blueprint for life itself.

In this episode of The Observing I, we break down Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey, not as a storytelling device, but as a psychological and philosophical roadmap for transformation. We’ll explore why this myth is hardwired into us, how Carl Jung’s archetypes shape our reality, and what happens when the hero falls into the abyss and never returns.

We’ll dive into the dark side of the Hero’s Journey, from false heroes to those who mistake power for wisdom, and how postmodern narratives are tearing this ancient myth apart. And finally, we’ll bring it back to you—how to apply the Hero’s Journey as a personal philosophy, how to recognize where you are in the cycle, and how to answer the call when it comes knocking.

Because here’s the truth: you are already on the journey. The only question is - are you going to answer the call?

Much love, David

In today’s episode, we’re challenging that common advice of “follow your passion” and looking at why focusing on your talents instead can lead to greater fulfilment and success.

Is there a point where, if we focus on our talents enough, they can become our passions? And what happens to our passions if, after years of effort, they never come to fruition? These are questions that I am hoping to answer.

By the end of this episode, my hope is that you’ll see the value in finding and nurturing your talents, along with understanding some ways to identify and align with your natural aptitudes

As always, I’d love you to join the conversation. Did you follow your talent or your passion? What was the outcome of that choice? Did it help or hinder you? Share your experiences with us via our social media, or drop us a comment below.

This episode is sponsored by my new book The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life, available now on Kindle and in paperback from Amazon

Much love, David

In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into the world of parasocial relationships - those emotional connections we form with celebrities, influencers, streamers, and YouTubers.

We’ll explore what a parasocial relationship is, and some of the psychological motivators behind them. We’ll weigh up whether they’re beneficial to us or harmful, and take a look at two real life examples from each side of the coin.

This one’s a bit meatier than usual, so I decided to start doing a few episodes every now and then called Deep Dives that go into much more detail on the chosen topic. If they prove popular, then I’ll do some more. They’re more work, but hopefully more rewarding for you, and they’re definitely a lot of fun to put together.

As always, I’d love you to join the conversation. Have you ever felt a strong connection to a character in a TV series, or your favourite YouTuber? If so, what emotions did you experience and what was the impact? Share your experiences with us via our social media, or drop us a comment below.

This episode is sponsored by my new book The Observing I: A Guide to Living a More Authentic Life, available now on Kindle and in paperback from Amazon

Much love, David

In this episode, we’re going to be taking a deviation from our usual transmission.

This Monday, which was a bank holiday for all of you in the UK, a book that I’ve been working on for about 2 years finally hit the shelves. It’s imaginatively called “The Observing I: A guide to living a more authentic life”, and it’s full of philosophical ideas and psychological methodologies to help you get to the bottom of the nature of you.

It’s available to purchase on Amazon as an eBook, and we’re currently working on getting a paperback copy ready.

In this episode, I’m going to talk a little about my motivations behind writing the book, and I’m going to read Chapter One in what will essentially be an extract from the coming audiobook. Seems a bit silly that I do a podcast and then release a book and don’t actually make an audiobook from it. So that will be coming in the future as well. As soon as it’s available, I’ll let you know.

If you’d like to get your hands on a copy of the eBook, then you can purchase it directly from Amazon here if you’re in the US:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D54FV5D5

Or here if you’re in the UK:

https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0D54FV5D5

Much love, David

In today’s episode, we’re getting into the esoteric realm of thought and consciousness.

What is thought, and how does it shape our experience? What part does our consciousness play on the human narrative, and where is the line between thought and awareness?

We’ll look at the fundamental definitions of thought, explore what philosophy and theology has to say on the matter, and look at the way in which thought and consciousness dance together. And, of course, we try to distil this down into some practical applications that you can take into your lives going forwards.

Much love, David

In today’s episode, we are getting into the world of empathy and sympathy. These two emotions play crucial roles in our social interactions, relationships, and personal well-being. I’ll be looking at what they actually are, taking a look at what philosophy has to say on the matter, and exploring their place in psychology.

We’ll also be looking at the pros and cons of each and trying to work out which one is better.

As an aside, you’ll be pleased to hear that the book is in it’s final stages and will be hitting the shelves in the next few weeks. I’m doing the last bit of typesetting and getting it looking like a sparkly tome of philosophical wisdom. When it’s ready, you’ll be able to purchase it on Amazon I’ll drop the link to it in a future update.

Much love, David

In today's episode, we're exploring the world of Alain de Botton, the philosopher who makes old ideas feel fresh. We'll explore how he takes complex concepts and brings them down to earth, showing us how they can be applied to our everyday lives.

Whether you're struggling with love, work, or just the general feeling of being overwhelmed by the modern world, de Botton offers a unique perspective that can help us understand ourselves and the world around us a little bit better.

We'll also delve into his ideas on emotional intelligence, and how his work can help us navigate the complexities of our own feelings and relationships. So, if you're ready to find some wisdom in the ordinary, and maybe even a little bit of comfort in knowing that we're all facing similar challenges, then this episode is for you.

Much love, David