KCRW's Life Examined is a one-hour weekly show exploring science, philosophy, faith — and finding meaning in the modern world. The show is hosted by Jonathan Bastian. Please tune in Saturdays at 9 a.m., or find it as a podcast.
A touching account of one American family’s struggle with schizophrenia
On the surface, the Galvins were the model American family. Parents Mimi and Don lived in Colorado Springs in the 1950s and 60s and had 12 children, 10 boys and two girls.
Bittersweet: Susan Cain on the joy of sweet sorrow
Writer and lecturer Susan Cain explores the evolutionary reasons behind sadness in our lives and how accepting sorrow can lead to greater emotional resilience and creativity.
The psychology of heartbreak and strategies for singledom
Scientist Sandra Langeslag explains strategies for overcoming heartbreak. Writer Aimee Lutkin explores singledom and why her identity is so tied to her relationship status.
Interrupted and distracted: Johann Hari wants you to regain your attention
Author and journalist Johann Hari on the forces that are stealing our attention and focus, and what we can do individually and collectively to regain our minds.
Are psychedelics undergoing a spiritual and therapeutic awakening?
Professor David Yaden talks about the history of psychedelic-induced altered states of consciousness and how these spiritual and mystical experiences can positively impact well being.
Ketamine, commonly used as an anesthetic and tranquilizer, has gone from club drug to an expensive spa treatment for depression. Could it be the next Prozac?
Professor Charles Stang explains the ancient understanding of the existence of a divine double, twin, or alter-ego and explores whether the belief still persists today.
Author Meghan O’Rourke explains her decade-long quest for a diagnosis to a mystery illness that left her feeling like her “body was made of sand and head was full of fog.”
How long COVID is shedding light on the mystery of chronic diseases
Dr. David Agus explains why autoimmune diseases are so elusive and how long COVID provides welcome research into recognizing and treating other chronic illnesses.
Psychology professor Laurie Santos explains how happiness works and says that “even when we choose what we think will make us feel happier, we don't often choose well.”
The desire for happiness has created a whole new industry, from wearable tech to books and classes. Why is feeling happy so important? Is happiness something that can be measured?
How do we address the disparity of feeling sympathy for Ukrainian refugees while ignoring the plight of those fleeing conflict zones in North African or Central America?
