The fruit trade is a dirty business. Take, for example, Sam Zemurray, known as the Banana Man, a Russian immigrant who became an influential figure in the American banana trade. This is the story of how he became one of the most powerful men in the world, overthrowing governments and contributing to the Guatemalan civil […]
How to manage anxiety 😅
Anxiety is not a sign of weakness. It’s a common experience that many people have, but hide out of shame. Suffering in silence doesn’t help anyone, and often makes things worse. Let’s look at some practical strategies for coping with anxiety and preventing panic attacks. Lean In It may sound counterintuitive, but stop resisting your […]
Let’s solve the communication crisis
Have you noticed that we’re experiencing an international curiosity deficit? In our digitally connected world, genuine human communication is lacking. By learning to listen carefully and ask good questions, we can bridge the gap, build better relationships, and learn a lot along the way. Deep Listening Listening is hard work. It’s not a passive activity, […]
Sleep your way into a better world 😴
We’re three days into the new year, which means that most people are deep into the to-do list items they put off during the holidays. We’ve all resolved to get things done better and faster. But what if being our best selves meant resting more and working less? Welcome to the new resistance, where self-care […]
What it’s like to be poor
Stephanie Land’s life changed forever when she wrote her first memoir, Maid, and the adaptation blew up on Netflix. But before any of that happened, she struggled horribly as a single mother with an abusive ex. Her second book, Class, tells that story — and it isn’t always pretty. Found Family Perhaps the biggest drain on Stephanie’s […]
Is email ruining your life?
Have you ever fantasized about a life without email? While modern communication tools may seem to increase efficiency, they can actually slow our mental processes as we switch between tasks. Our inboxes can also be a source of frustration and anxiety as messages pile up. The question is: what are we supposed to do about it? […]
How to be open-hearted
With popular, but isolating, activities like shopping online, ordering food delivery, and even watching Netflix, society is becoming more and more impersonal. Cultural commentator David Brooks sees social skills as the foundation of healthy living and strong communities. How can we connect with family, friends, neighbors, and colleagues on a deeper level? Sharpen Your Soft […]
The science of awe
When was the last time you experienced a real sense of wonder or awe? Psychology professor Dacher Keltner believes that awe is the key to living a fulfilling, happy life. Even simple experiences like looking at the stars can increase your sense of wellbeing as well as reduce chronic inflammation and diseases. Here’s an easy idea […]
How to find peace this season
Spending time with our families during the holidays can be a source of great joy—but it can be difficult, too. Our most dysfunctional relationships tend to flare up at this time of year, which is often compounded by mental health and substance abuse issues. How can we set aside our expectations and focus on our […]
Escaping a nightmare
Rudolf Vbra was just a teenager when he escaped Auschwitz. It was 1944, and the world did not yet know much about what was happening in Nazi concentration camps. His accounts of the camp’s operations helped save 200,000 Hungarian Jews. Here’s how he broke the silence. A Plan Was Born At Auschwitz, Vbra was part […]
