Two Inconvenient Women

A reflective conversation about what it means to slow down and lean into literal and metaphorical winter. They explore cultural resistance to rest, seasonal rhythms in sleep and food, and ways to tether daily life to nature. They compare different styles of wintering, discuss sitting with hard emotions, and consider how social slowing and shared rituals deepen connection.

Dive into the concept of 'polycrisis' and its amplifying effects on our lives. Discover how recognizing interconnected crises can be the first step toward meaningful action. The hosts explore emotional responses, the importance of self-care as activism, and the roots of disconnection that fuel these challenges. Learn how small interventions can shift systemic health and the wisdom inherent in natural systems. They also offer practical resources and hopeful strategies to reclaim agency in an overwhelming world.

As the new year approaches, the pressure to reinvent yourself looms large. The hosts dissect cultural new year traditions and ponder whether January 1st truly signifies a fresh start. They contrast fleeting resolutions with deeper intentions, advocating for gentle growth over drastic change. The podcast explores the influence of consumer culture on our perception of new beginnings and emphasizes honoring the natural rhythms of the seasons. Tune in for insights on embracing the pause and cultivating patience as you navigate your own journey.

This podcast features a captivating reading of a poem by Matt Goodfellow that beautifully captures the essence of change and renewal. The imagery evokes the shifting weather, the harmony of nature, and a sense of anticipation for the new year. Listeners are treated to a reflection on new beginnings as the hosts share heartfelt wishes for a gentle start to the year. It's a delightful exploration of hope and transformation, perfectly setting the tone for what’s to come.

We're taking a break over the holidays and are not recording a new episode of Two Inconvenient Women today. Instead, we're sharing a gift - a whole range of stories of inspiring people from across the world working to create a healthier future for people and planet. From educators in Uganda focused on self-care in leadership to teachers challenging the mainstream to communities focused on nature connection at the heart of learning, our Triple WellBeing Fellows are ordinary people with extraordinary stories.Dive into the whole community and begin your listening journey: https://thoughtboxeducation.com/stories Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Discover the transformative power of gratitude in daily life. The hosts explore how gratitude reshapes our perceptions and strengthens resilience. They discuss its profound ties to spiritual traditions and the calming effects on the nervous system, backed by neuroscience. Personal anecdotes highlight the importance of giving and receiving appreciation in relationships. Practical tips are shared for cultivating gratitude, even on tough days, emphasizing the value of authenticity over forced positivity. Tune in for insights that can enhance connection and presence.

Why don't we talk to our neighbours? This question is asked not to be provocative but more to reflect on what has shifted in our cultures to mean that we can inhabit the same space as people we don't quite know. For some cultures around the world, community and neighbourhoods remain a vital - and vitalising part of daily life, yet for many living in the culture of modernity, our move into hyper-individualism has been at the detriment of our community. We may not have ever met the person or people who live above, below or beside us - and we may not know anything about them - not even their name. In this week's episode we explore some of the changes across time that have led to the erosion of gathering spaces; the impact of a culture of fear and distrust on how we respond to strangers and some of the blocks, challenges and opportunities that surround us when it comes to finding connection with those in our neighbourhood.In this conversation we reference the following:Love Thy Neighbour - World Values Survey (PDF)Everyone wants a village but no-one wants to be a villager - Cassie McCure (article)36 questions - how to fall in love - New York Times (website) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does success really mean? The hosts explore the societal narratives that define success as wealth and achievement, questioning if these ideals are worth pursuing. They highlight the concept of redefining success based on personal values rather than societal expectations. Emphasizing the importance of failure as a stepping stone, they suggest that success is more about the journey and individual fulfillment. Reflecting on life’s true priorities, they argue that deep connections and meaningful experiences shape a truly successful life.

Exploring the gap between lived and laminated values, the conversation dives into how our inner compass shapes who we are. The hosts discuss the origins of values, the struggle for alignment, and the critique of 'British values' as superficial. Citing the Schwartz Values Map, they reveal the tension between extrinsic and intrinsic motivations and challenge common narratives about human nature. They also touch on the impact of trauma on values and the importance of creating communities that reflect authentic beliefs. Enjoy insights on living with purpose and integrity!

The sustainability movement's journey since the 1950s is explored, revealing its pitfalls. The hosts discuss treating sustainability as a foundational process, not just an add-on. They highlight the interconnectedness of social, economic, and environmental goals. Greenwashing and political setbacks are critiqued, while grassroots initiatives and indigenous wisdom offer hope. The conversation calls for slowing down, reconnecting with nature, and fostering a mindset shift toward systemic change.