When East Meets West: Recent Episodes
Peter Economou, Ph.D. and Nikki Rubin, Psy.D.
East coast psychologist Peter Economou, Ph.D. and West coast psychologist Nikki Rubin, Psy.D. discuss ancient Eastern spiritual practices and their integration with modern Western behavioral science with practical takeaways for everyone. Learn more at www.wheneastmeetswest.us
What if you could find peace by simply letting go? Join us as we unravel the profound wisdom behind letting go through powerful stories and enlightening discussions. Kicking off with a poignant koan about two monks and an old lady, we explore the simplicity of helping without attachment and the complexity of human suffering. This episode guides you through the difference between inevitable pain and optional suffering, emphasizing how our resistance often intensifies our distress. We also share a touching story about the beauty of a flower, highlighting the transformative power of acceptance and mindfulness. Reflect on your own struggles and discover how embracing life's moments with openness and compassion can bring about profound change.
Let's dive deep into the practice of letting go within the framework of mindfulness and emotional well-being. We tackle common misconceptions about detachment, clarifying that letting go is about releasing control rather than distancing from experiences. The principle "push away nothing, cling to nothing" is our guiding light, helping to reduce distress and suffering. Personal anecdotes and spiritual traditions illustrate the importance of mindfulness in daily life, emphasizing the urgency and beauty of living in the present moment. By focusing on the "now" and acknowledging the inevitability of death, we can live more fully and find clarity. Join us for a transformative journey towards emotional freedom and mindfulness.
How do emotions spread like a ripple, influencing our behavior and even the mood of entire crowds? Join us as we unpack the fascinating phenomenon of emotional contagion. Through relatable examples like the different vibes at various concerts and unexpected aggression at sports events, we explain how emotions can spread from one person to many. This episode is especially crucial for therapists and students managing anxious clients, as we explore the importance of being mindful of one's emotional responses in different contexts based on Arthur Brooks’ article in the Atlantic.
We'll also tackle the challenge of maintaining individuality in crowd-based situations. Are you comfortable being a less vigilant version of yourself when caught up in mass emotions? By posing these thought-provoking questions, we emphasize the significance of making conscious choices. We'll discuss the role of leaders in shaping collective emotions and the importance of interpreting others' intentions with self-awareness. Drawing insights from Arthur Brooks, we stress the value of mindfulness in maintaining autonomy and making intentional decisions. Tune in for a compelling discussion that will help you navigate the emotional energies around you.
Why does deciding what jeans to buy feel like climbing a mountain? Let's unpack the overwhelming world of decision-making in today's episode. We confront the brain's wiring for problem-solving that goes haywire with too many choices and the added pressure of uncertain outcomes. We'll share how trying to guess others' thoughts only adds another knot in our tangled web of options. Our aim is to shine a light on why choices can be so daunting and provide some strategies to navigate this maze.
We then shift gears to discuss the delicate balance between risk and decision-making, particularly for high performers who may find themselves stuck in the quicksand of overthinking. We'll explore how aligning decisions with personal values and understanding their flexibility can be liberating. Through relatable scenarios, like deciding on a toaster, we illustrate how to make informed choices and adapt as needed. Lastly, we emphasize resilience and the acceptance of uncertainties, stressing that mistakes aren't failures but mere stepping stones in our journey. Join us for a rich discussion filled with insights and practical advice to help you make choices with courage and clarity.
Ever wondered how elite athletes like Simone Biles manage the tremendous pressure of competing on the world stage? Our guests, Dr. Pete Economou and Dr. Nikki Rubin, bring their expertise in sports psychology to shed light on this critical topic. They share eye-opening personal experiences with swimming and compare the cultural attitudes towards the sport on the East and West Coasts. Together, we dive into the mental health challenges faced by athletes, illustrating how sharing vulnerabilities can break stigmas and remind us that mental well-being is just as important as physical prowess.
Winning isn't just about the medals—it's about the journey. In our conversation, we explore the profound concept of focusing on the process rather than the outcome. With insights about the balance between ambition and acceptance, we discuss how experiencing both victories and setbacks contributes to personal growth. The dialogue is enriched with motivational quotes and practical advice on building grit and staying present, offering you a fresh perspective on resilience and mindfulness in both sports and life. Tune in for an inspiring episode that celebrates the beauty of the journey and the importance of mental health.
Ever wondered how coaching and therapy intersect and why it's important to understand the differences? Discover the crucial distinctions and fascinating overlaps between these two practices as cognitive and behavioral therapists, Dr. Pete Economou and Dr. Nikki Rubin, delve into the psychological foundations of coaching, especially executive coaching. You'll learn why it's essential to know what each practitioner offers, the importance of clear boundaries and ethics, and how to navigate the intricacies of problem-solving in both realms. This conversation promises to enhance your understanding of how coaching and therapy can complement each other in supporting personal and professional growth.
Join Dr. Pete Economou and Dr. Nikki Rubin in a thought-provoking exploration of East meets West in mental health. By integrating mindfulness and resilience strategies from both Eastern and Western philosophies, they reveal how these diverse cultural perspectives can enhance your psychological well-being. Listen as they share practical tips for fostering acceptance, presence, and bravery in the face of life's challenges. Whether you're a professional seeking to refine your practice or someone on a personal journey of self-improvement, this episode offers valuable insights and strategies to support your mental health journey.
Can you truly control the outcomes in your life, or is it merely an illusion? Join us in this episode of "When East Meets West" as Dr. Pete Economou and Dr. Nikki Rubin share their personal battles with the human desire for outcome control and the profound impact of accepting uncertainty. You'll learn how research bias can skew our perceptions and the necessity of retaining curiosity in scientific endeavors. Using surprising examples like lollipop colors and their effect on mood, we illustrate the invaluable nature of all data, challenging the narcissistic belief that we can predict results through mere thought and planning.
Shift your focus from the end goal to the present moment as we draw insights from Buddhist philosophy and Zen practices. Discover how embracing the process, rather than fixating on the outcome, can enhance well-being and performance in areas ranging from sports to business. By practicing mindfulness and acceptance, we can manage expectations and reduce suffering, no matter our circumstances. Listen in as we explore the continuous journey of letting go of attachments to both positive and negative outcomes, consistently bringing our attention back to the present—much like the practice of meditation.
Can you really distinguish between secrecy and privacy? Discover the subtle yet profound differences as we dive into a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Pete Economou and Dr. Nikki Rubin. In this episode, we tackle how secrets can undermine trust in relationships and teams through acts of omission or commission. Nikki sheds light on the emotional burdens tied to secrecy—shame, guilt, and fear—while contrasting it with the healthy boundaries established by privacy. Learn why maintaining personal space is vital, especially in today’s culture of constant oversharing, and understand the unique roles both secrecy and privacy play in our lives.
But the episode doesn't stop there. We introduce an innovative tool that's set to change the game—the "vibe scale," developed by one of Pete's former supervisors and soon to bear his name. This newly minted metric holds promise for various applications, and we share our excitement for its future impact. As we close the discussion, Pete teases a mysterious secret to be unveiled next time. Stick around for our signature sign-off, where we challenge you to be present and brave, highlighting the educational essence of our engaging dialogues. Don't miss out on this illuminating episode that promises to enrich your understanding of everyday interactions.
How often do you consider the true depth of intimacy in your life? Join us as we explore the diverse dimensions of intimacy that go far beyond its typical association with sex. Intimacy isn't confined to romantic relationships; it flourishes in friendships, family dynamics, and even in the way we understand others. We ponder whether the term "intimacy" is apt for describing parent-child relationships and emphasize the significance of forming meaningful connections in a variety of contexts. Discover how deep observation and understanding of another person can enrich your everyday interactions.
In this episode, we also dive into the intricate relationships between love, intimacy, and connection, shedding light on the importance of love languages such as acts of service, words of affirmation, quality time, physical touch, and gifts. You'll learn about the enteric nervous system—our "second brain" in the gut—and how it senses safety in intimate relationships. We reflect on how intimacy can be felt in the body, likening its emotional nourishment to a fullness in the heart. Finally, we invite you to reflect on where you currently experience intimacy and where you might want to cultivate more of it. Tune in to embark on a journey of emotional connection and discover the transformative power of intimacy in your life.
Can high energy levels be both a blessing and a curse? Join us as we reconnect after a whirlwind hiatus to discuss everything from our personal journey updates to the intriguing dynamics of hypomania among high performers. Dr. Nikki Rubin walks us through the booming success of her practice and her exciting collaboration with Simple Practice, while Dr. Pete Economou shares his experiences in academia and sports psychology training. We take a nostalgic trip back to the 1980s and reflect on the pervasive culture of busyness in American society. Reconnecting in New York brought us joy and a renewed focus on the importance of mindfulness and balance in our demanding schedules.
In another engaging chapter, we dissect the complex world of hypomania, distinguishing it from mania and exploring its allure and pitfalls for individuals with bipolar disorder. We also navigate the post-COVID landscape, examining how the pandemic has caused an over-correction in our engagement with daily activities. How can we align our busyness with our core values to ensure our lives feel enriching rather than exhausting? Tune in to hear our insights on managing the new normal, recovering from perfectionism, and finding a fulfilling balance in our increasingly hectic lives. This episode is rich with practical advice and reflective moments, all aimed at improving mental and emotional well-being.
Dr. Pete and Rubin did it again. They disappeared and took care of themselves, leaving you all in the dust. They do not mean to hurt any listeners, but they just take their self care very serious. On this episode they talk about their hiatus and goals for the upcoming episodes. Tune in to see what you can learn this season (season 4)!!!
Over the recent years there has been a growing number of portrayals of mental health providers in media, further helping the de-stigmatization of mental health. Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin discuss the recent Apple TV series, Ted Lasso. Tune in to learn how this series has wonderfully portrayed the role of psychology, the impact of a team approach, and so much more behavioral interpretation of his television series.
On Apple TV: https://tv.apple.com/us/show/ted-lasso/umc.cmc.vtoh0mn0xn7t3c643xqonfzy
Visit http://www.wheneastmeetswest.us/ to learn more about Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin. © 2023 Copyright
Peter Economou, Ph.D. and Nikki Rubin, Psy.D. discuss modern psychological science and its integration with ancient Eastern practices with takeaway tools for everyone.
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When East Meets West is proud to be sponsored by The Complete Private Practice Tool Kit: https://www.privatepracticetoolkit.com/
Dr. Rubin presented the issue in the U.S. with access to care across many different medical arenas, of course emphasizing mental healthcare. Finding the right mental health provider can be a challenge for so many people due to financial limitations, availability, the right fit, and so much more. Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete talk about private practice and the reasons why many mental health providers choose to go into private practice. Dr. Rubin also speaks about why she developed a course for therapists so they can learn how to treat more patients and run the private practice more efficiently.
Visit http://www.wheneastmeetswest.us/ to learn more about Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin.
© 2023 Copyright
Peter Economou, Ph.D. and Nikki Rubin, Psy.D. discuss modern psychological science and its integration with ancient Eastern practices with takeaway tools for everyone.
THE SITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL OR PSYCHOLOGICAL ADVICE
IF YOU BELIEVE THAT YOU ARE EXPERIENCING A LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCY, PLEASE CONTACT 911 IMMEDIATELY OR GO TO YOUR NEAREST EMERGENCY ROOM: http://www.wheneastmeetswest.us/terms.html
When East Meets West is proud to be sponsored by The Complete Private Practice Tool Kit: https://www.privatepracticetoolkit.com/
Dr. Pete brought the topic of liberation, which of course Dr. Rubin was so easily able to define as a part of freedom. There is so much power in words and Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin break down the role of relational frame theory and how the word liberation can be perceived. Dr. Pete introduces the audience to the 3 doors of liberation from Buddhism which includes emptiness, signlessness, and aimlessness. Tune in to learn about how these doors of liberation and how someone can live them in a form of action.
Visit http://www.wheneastmeetswest.us/ to learn more about Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin. © 2023 Copyright
Peter Economou, Ph.D. and Nikki Rubin, Psy.D. discuss modern psychological science and its integration with ancient Eastern practices with takeaway tools for everyone.
THE SITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL OR PSYCHOLOGICAL ADVICE
IF YOU BELIEVE THAT YOU ARE EXPERIENCING A LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCY, PLEASE CONTACT 911 IMMEDIATELY OR GO TO YOUR NEAREST EMERGENCY ROOM: http://www.wheneastmeetswest.us/terms.html
When East Meets West is proud to be sponsored by The Complete Private Practice Tool Kit: https://www.privatepracticetoolkit.com/
Dr. Rubin brings her knowledge on this western behavioral practice of distress tolerance. The APA definition of Distress tolerance: the level of either (a) one’s unwillingness to experience emotional distress as part of pursuing desired goals or (b) one’s inability to engage in goal-directed behaviors when experiencing distress. Low distress tolerance is related to a range of disorders, including borderline personality disorder, substance abuse, and eating disorders; some treatments (e.g., dialectical behavior therapy) are designed in part to raise an individual’s level of distress tolerance by habituating him or her to the experience of adapting to distress and other negative emotions. Box breathing, self soothe, senses, water and ice, and other techniques are offered. DBT Book reference: Linehan, M. M. (2015). DBT® skills training manual (2nd ed.). Guilford Press.
Visit http://www.wheneastmeetswest.us/ to learn more about Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin. © 2023 Copyright
Peter Economou, Ph.D. and Nikki Rubin, Psy.D. discuss modern psychological science and its integration with ancient Eastern practices with takeaway tools for everyone.
THE SITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL OR PSYCHOLOGICAL ADVICE
IF YOU BELIEVE THAT YOU ARE EXPERIENCING A LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCY, PLEASE CONTACT 911 IMMEDIATELY OR GO TO YOUR NEAREST EMERGENCY ROOM: http://www.wheneastmeetswest.us/terms.html
Dr. Pete brings topics from his recent dharma talk on delusions and illusions, the Zen teaching of how nothing exists outside the mind. The world as we see it can all be viewed as one big illusion, which is a western practice of cognitive defusion. Dr. Rubin gently challenges around the concept and reminds us that humans have difficult experiences and it is important to acknowledge those feelings. The doctors get into the conversation of letting go and how the Eastern teaching is hard for the Westerner. Tune in to see how to manage life as delusions and illusions.
Visit http://www.wheneastmeetswest.us/ to learn more about Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin.
© 2023 Copyright
Peter Economou, Ph.D. and Nikki Rubin, Psy.D. discuss modern psychological science and its integration with ancient Eastern practices with takeaway tools for everyone.
THE SITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL OR PSYCHOLOGICAL ADVICE
IF YOU BELIEVE THAT YOU ARE EXPERIENCING A LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCY, PLEASE CONTACT 911 IMMEDIATELY OR GO TO YOUR NEAREST EMERGENCY ROOM: http://www.wheneastmeetswest.us/terms.html
Distraction is the behavior where there is an interruption of attention. It takes the person away from the primary interest, and the world within which we live makes distraction much easier. Think about it- streaming, mobile devices, technology with lights and video, and much more. Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin bring the east and west teachings of attention, how the brain works, and even some western diagnoses such as ADHD. Dr. Rubin reminds us that distractions remove us from feelings of discomfort and gives her many pearls of wisdom including that listeners should turn off the push notifications on your mobile devices.
Visit http://www.wheneastmeetswest.us/ to learn more about Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin. © 2023 Copyright
Peter Economou, Ph.D. and Nikki Rubin, Psy.D. discuss modern psychological science and its integration with ancient Eastern practices with takeaway tools for everyone.
THE SITE DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL OR PSYCHOLOGICAL ADVICE
IF YOU BELIEVE THAT YOU ARE EXPERIENCING A LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCY, PLEASE CONTACT 911 IMMEDIATELY OR GO TO YOUR NEAREST EMERGENCY ROOM: http://www.wheneastmeetswest.us/terms.html
As you have seen on When East Meets West, there are many things that can be tied to western behavioral science and all things about our performance are no different. Dr. Pete works primarily with high performers, but Dr. Rubin reminds us that everything is performance. Even waking up, getting to work, or going to the gym. The hosts focus on how performance psychology helps people reach optimal levels of performance with skills and techniques. Tune in to learn about some of those tools that psychologists use to help others perform their best.
Dr. Rubin introduces the subtle shifts of seasons on the west coast compared to the east coast seasonal changes. This episode highlights that the act of returning is a behavior and the idea of renewal is an experience. Dr. Rubin breaks this down for listeners and Dr. Pete brings in the eastern spirituality focusing on the metaphor: Watering the seed is renewal. Tune in to learn about the experience of renewing in your life and that at this moment you can make a commitment to upgrading some part of your life (i.e., renewal).
Dr. Pete introduces the nature of resilience in psychology and living while Dr. Rubin reminds that resilience is connected to grit. She named the ingredients as: grit, connection, love and connection, and compassion. There was a moment of disagreement, which does not happen often between these two, when it came to grit. It was a true east versus west conversation since Dr. Pete uses that word at least twice a day for the past 15 years and Dr. Rubin recently found herself describing grit in session. You do not want to miss this episode to learn about cultivating resilience.
Dr. Rubin introduces the education regarding panic symptoms and panic attacks, and how they are precipitated by a perceived threat. Drs. Rubin and Pete present the symptoms and present some mechanisms that people use to manage panic. Dr. Pete brings the Eastern teachings with the focus on anxiety and nonattachment. Tune into this episode to learn about the east and west perception of panic.
Self growth
There are many ways for people to try and evolve, and today’s culture heavily emphasizes the importance of wellness and wellbeing. In fact, there could be some criticism about self-growth being viewed as a fad, but Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin break this down for you and tell you how important self growth truly is. Don't believe us? Tune in to see how the eastern spiritual practices have focused so much on growth and change, and how western behaviorism can teach you effective ways to do so.
Connection
Dr. Rubin introduced the idea of connection as something that is not measurable, and humans are in need of it. Of course many of us are still recovering from the pandemic and what it meant to connect during this time versus returning now to the present moment and re-learning how to connect. Dr. Pete is able to bring it to the East so that listeners can see how to weave the behavior of connection with the eastern spirituality practice. There is no moment other than this one; this one as you read and click to listen to this episode and learn about tools for stronger connection with other humans, values, and life.
Anger
Dr. Rubin highlights the evolution of anger and how this emotion can be helpful. Like most things in the practice of mindfulness, as long as we do not let any of them control how we think, feel and behave, they can be useful. Dr. Pete discusses the role of anger in performance and how the East has interpreted and written on this emotion. Remember, it is just one emotion. Do not give emotions too much power. Tune in to learn about how to effectively feel anger!
In this episode Dr. Pete brings the trend of retreats to this episode as it comes into modern wellness, as well as the traditional practices of retreats which are ultimately meant to isolate and recharge our energy and spirits. Dr. Rubin reminds listeners to remain curious about these ideas and find what is helpful for each individual, because there is no one-size-fits all. Dr. Pete reminds us that wellness is a journey and to remain patient with the process of retreats, dabble with different kinds, and like Dr. Rubin said, stay curious. Tune in to learn more about the practice of retreats.
The Return: We are back!
After almost one year, Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin return to When East Meets West and, in true form of their commitment to mindfulness, they frame this return episode within a mindful and values-based way. Like most of you they have been busy and had to make the decision to stay on hiatus, but they are back. They will bring new episodes to complete season 3 and keep throwing knowledge for the world to improve and to decrease suffering. Tune in to hear about their time off and what to expect for the upcoming episodes.
Have you missed the doctors? Well, they missed you more! Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin have been grinding, which means that they needed to take a break. Tune in to learn the importance of boundaries and self-care professionally and personally. They explain the importance of self-compassion, mindfulness, spirituality, and explain the need to take a break. Do not worry. Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin will be back soon with riveting episodes linking eastern spirituality with western spiritual practices.
You see that there? What is the dilemma with rules? Tune in to hear Dr. Rubin talk about how there are some issues with rules, but that we also need them. She schools Dr. Pete, as always, and sheds light onto the importance of rules in behaviorism.
January 2022, one of the most influential Buddhist monks, transitioned to the next life. He was 95-years-old and after being ordained a monk at age 16, he went on to live a life dedicated to educating the world on peace and living compassionately. Dr. Pete discusses the role of death in eastern traditions, and what this means to his community. It made sense that Dr. Rubin would bring this episode to shed light on the tremendous impact he has had during this lifetime.
Have you ever heard someone describe an event (e.g., dinner, fight, work presentation), but it sounds so different than you experienced it? that is perception. In the opening episode of season 3, Dr. Pete shares the dharma talk that was influenced by the role of perceptions, and how the mind interferes with behavior. While this concept of perception is common within the eastern spiritual teachings, it is also fundamentally behavioral. Tune in to learn about how the power of perception is related to releasing suffering.
Oops, Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete forgot to say good-bye and all of a sudden, they found themselves in a short hiatus. In this season 2 closer, the co-hosts discuss the need for a break, setting boundaries, all within the context of a new year and the resolutions that people make as the world enters a new year. Learn about intention versus resolution, and both Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete share some of their committed intentions for the new year. You will not want to miss this episode, especially if you are seeking peace in the new year.
Dr. Rubin asks and she receives, so Dr. Pete breaks down the Heart Sutra in a very basic, secular way. Listeners will learn about the role of chanting and sutras in eastern practices, specifically the heart sutra in this episode. If you want to learn more about the role of chanting in Buddhism, tune in!
Listeners can read the heart sutra here: https://zmm.org/teachings-and-training/liturgy/heart-sutra/
Have you ever been to a dinner and then you ask all the guests what happened at dinner? If there were 6 guests, you will get 6 different stories. That is the power of perspective taking. Dr. Pete shares knowledge about how perspective impacts mood and behaviors, while Dr. Rubin drops knowledge about its role in western behavioral science. The psychologists discuss developmental aspects of perspective, the idea of no self in easters philosophies, and its role in empathy. Tune in, you don't want to miss how your perspective reading this right now will affect whether you listen or not.
On November 1, 2021 the world lost the father of cognitive therapy, Aaron T. Beck, MD, known as Tim by his loved ones. He noticed issues with interpretations in traditional psychoanalysis and introduced the world of psychology to automatic thoughts, cognitive distortions, the idea that psychological concepts could be scientifically studied, and everything related to what we now know as Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT). In this episode, Dr. Rubin shares stories and autobiographical details, while Dr. Pete tries to hold on and learns a ton. Tune in to learn more about Dr. Beck and the impact he had and the legacy that will live forever.
Learn more about Dr. Beck's life and his work:
Dr. Beck discussing the similarities between CBT and Buddhism with the Dalai Lama
The Beck Institute, co-founded by Aaron Beck, M.D. and his daughter Judith Beck, Ph.D.
New York Times Obituary and the Washington Post Obituary
Most of us think of risk taking behaviors as limited to putting ourselves in physical danger for a thrill (e.g., surfing a 50ft wave) or acting impulsively or without thinking (e.g., making a bet using your life savings). In this episode, Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete discuss how simply being alive is risky, and how making decisions, doing things that align with your values, or practicing vulnerability are all healthy risk taking behaviors. Tune in to learn more.
Most of us tend to know when something feels fake or feels genuine or authentic—but how?? In this episode Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin introduce discuss the concept of authenticity, and how it may be a value, a personal experience, or something we assess in others. Tune in to learn how finding authenticity in your life is broken into four categories: self awareness, unbiased processing, behavior and relational orientation (Kermis & Goldman, 2000).
Brains don’t like being uncomfortable, so they’ve come up with a simple behavioral solution: avoid it! In this episode, the docs discuss the function of avoidance, provide psychoeducation about experiential avoidance and its attempts to control what’s happening inside of our bodies, and discuss the comparable Buddhist concept of aversion. Everyone avoids thoughts, feelings, other people, situations (and much more) at some point or another, so tune in to learn how to recognize avoidance and begin to turn back towards stepping into discomfort. We promise, it’ll be worth it!
Have you noticed that the music you listen to can directly affect how you feel? Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin share insights around the psychology of music, while reminding listeners that they are no musical experts. Dr. Pete introduces Marconi Union and the song “Weightless” that was found to be the most stress-reducing song studied. He also introduces Kirtan as a form of meditation, and Dr. Rubin provides insights on how to music may impact our mood states (for better or worse). Tune in to learn more about how music can impact your well-being.
Why do we worry about the future and ruminate about the past? In this episode, Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete discuss and distinguish between these two “covert” behaviors (behaviors happening inside you that are invisible to everyone else), their evolutionary purposes, and why the brain thinks these behaviors help solve problems (spoiler alert: they don’t!) Unsurprisingly, you’ll see once again how all roads lead to mindfulness and how mindful practices can help you let go of worry and rumination behaviors.
You’ve heard koans mentioned on WEMW before, but what exactly are they? In this episode, Dr. Pete explains what koans are and how they are used to try and untangle the mind through verbal paradoxes and riddles in the Buddhist tradition. Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin practice walking through one of the most well known koans together, and discuss how koans may help individuals connect with reality more effectively. This episode will help those wanting to learn more about the origin of mindfulness from Buddhism. Tune in!
We live in a busy go, go, go world, thus most of us like to believe that we are experts in multi-tasking. But believe it or not, the brain is actually incapable of focusing on more than one thing at a time! In this episode, Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin bust the multi-tasking myth by discussing the DBT skill of “one mindfully,” research on attention “switching,” and their own challenges with multi-tasking. Living in this high paced world, you wont want to miss this episode on how to slow down and pay attention.
As Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete return from a short summer hiatus, they open up the second half of Season 2 by discussing the importance of sadness, evolutionary perspectives, and differentiate sadness from depression. Dr. Rubin highlights the behavioral role of sadness in the western world while Dr. Pete reminds us that sadness can be a gift from an eastern perspective. All of us have felt it, so tune in to learn about sadness.
Love is a basic emotion, and one that most humans desire. There are many aspects of love and it shows up at different points in our lives. In this last episode before summer break, Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin share their thoughts on love and the role it plays in human behavior.
On this bonus episode, special guest Jean Semelfort, Jr. joins Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin to discuss toxic masculinity. Jean is a licensed professional counselor and owner of the private practice CACTUS in Montclair, NJ. He is a consultant who has worked with many universities on healthy masculinity and sexual assault prevention, and he has shared his expertise in his excellent TED talk "Rolling with Rejection".
The professionals break down the definition of masculinity, the social implications, and intersectionality. Tune in, you won't want to miss this episode.
Emotions evolved to give us information, but what happens when they become more intense than evolution intended them to be? In this episode, Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete discuss emotion regulation, including reasons why emotions become dysregulated and ways to work on regulating or mitigating their intensity. And no surprise here—mindful practices are often the way to doing so. Tune in to learn more.
There are many positives and negatives involving the use of video games, and experts have been debating this topic for years. Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin break down some of the most recent research around video games, the development of e-sports, and generational implications of the role of video games in society.
Without further ado, Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete bring you the first episode regarding the differences between behaviorism and traditional psychoanalysis as developed by Sigmund Freud. They highlight how the practices are similar and how behavioral health providers are often implementing more similar interventions than different, but how eastern traditions are nonjudgmental and likely more applicable across groups when compared to traditional Freudian theory. Tune in to learn more.
As the medical world advances, so too do the labels that help guide providers with treatment. In this episode, Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin chat about illness anxiety, OCD with a health focus, and other behavioral presentations related to health concerns. The east and west coast psychologists flush out the difference between the fear of having a disease versus contracting one, worry, obsessions, and much more that plays into how people respond to health anxiety.
If given the choice, do you prefer to compromise or do it your way? In this episode, Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin discuss why compromise is so difficult for human beings (hint: we’ve got those rigid and judgmental brains!) and how a willingness to practice compromise creates opportunities for more workable solutions. Letting go of attachment to being right, mindfully accepting and experiencing discomfort, and returning back to the middle path are also discussed. Tune in to learn more.
No one likes feeling guilty, but have you ever considered that maybe your guilt is trying to tell you something? In this episode, Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete dive into what guilt actually is (hint: it’s information!), including its evolutionary roots. They also distinguish between justified guilt and unjustified guilt, and effective ways to respond to each. And of course, the docs present how mindfulness practices and Zen wisdom can help us better understand and respond to this unpleasant emotion.
Today isn't about when East meets West, it's about East versus West! In this episode, Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin dive into an exploration (and friendly rivalry) of East coast versus West coast cultures. This discussion creates a space to identify rules, attitudes, and judgments that arise amidst their differences, while also serving as an example of how different experiences help us to grow and become more curious, flexible, and open. You might even learn a little bit about some of the docs' favorite East coast and West coast cuisines and music! Tune in to hear more.
Humans are a curious species, although at times curiosity can cause anxiety or pain (i.e., think about the saying "curiosity killed the cat." Sorry to you cat lovers out there). In this episode, Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete define curiosity as both a feeling AND a behavior, as well as discuss its relationship to willingness, openness, and acceptance. Curiosity is also highlighted as integral part of mindfulness practices. Curious as you read this? Listen to this episode to learn how to build deeper connections through curiosity.
Enlightenment is often misunderstood in western culture as something to achieve. In this episode, Dr. Pete clarifies that there actually is no arrival or achievement of enlightenment (what?!) and both docs discuss what this means from a Buddhist lens and how it may connect with spirituality. Dr. Rubin also identifies how our human brains will continue to interfere with this process because we are spiritual beings having a human experience. Tune in to begin to explore this complex concept.
What is a gut instinct? Can you tell the difference between your gut, your emotions, or a premonition? In this episode, Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete discuss intuition, how to access it, and how its existence is explained from both eastern spiritual traditions and western science. Fun fact: neurons (the cells that are in your brain) are also found in the human GI tract, so our gut instinct really is telling us something...Tune in to learn more about how to connect to and act from your intuition and inner wisdom.
Do you know the difference between boundaries and walls? How about the relationship between boundaries and connection? In this episode, Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete discuss what boundaries are, how they are an essential part of healthy relationships, and why setting and maintaining them is often so hard to do. Tune in to learn more about importance of boundaries.
Finally! In this episode, the docs talk through one of their favorite topics on WEMW: values. Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin define what values are and how they function like directions, discuss their relationship with flexibility, and identify how clarifying and acting in alignment with our values can bring us more meaning, purpose, and fulfillment in our lives.
Whether to a global pandemic, marriage, the loss of a loved one, or a new job, humans are always adjusting. Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete highlight the behavioral aspects of adjustment, the diagnosis of adjustment disorder, and how the world is collectively going through an adjustment. Tune in to learn about how best to adjust to new situations.
Have you been given a trigger warning before? In the service of increasing sensitivity and awareness to the struggles of others, trigger warnings have gained popularity by letting someone know that what’s about to be shared could be distressing. In this episode, Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin discuss how this well-intentioned approach actually runs counter to the behavioral science behind exposure therapy, and how it’s impossible to avoid all triggers and avoid all distress. The docs identify how practicing compassionate awareness of others’ distress while also facing triggers can exist dialectically, and how this results in increasing psychological resilience. Tune in to learn more.
How do we move towards creating more space and freedom in our lives? In this episode, Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin discuss a favorite topic on WEMW: flexibility. While you might know from other episodes that psychological flexibility is highly correlated with psychological well-being, you may not have considered how practicing flexibility is a gateway to connecting with more freedom in your life. Tune in to learn more about how these two concepts can help us move towards our values and building the lives that we want for ourselves.
Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin have mentioned the Middle Path time and again on When East Meets West. In this episode, they finally dissect and present the foundations of this practice, how it links to behavior, and how it may impact our emotional functioning. The doctors illustrate the three waves of CBT, the goals of finding the middle way in order to create flexibility, and the importance of functional contextualism.
What is the difference between the brain and the mind? Is there a difference? In this episode, Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete discuss how these two parts ourselves are often conflated (especially since they both exist inside our skulls!) They also define and distinguish the brain as an organ in the human body and the mind as something a lot less tangible. Time is also spent addressing how eastern perspectives tend to target the mind, while western approaches likely target helping both. Tune in to learn more.
Howard Spector co-founded SimplePractice—a business management software solution and an industry-leading SaaS company in the healthtech sector that has been recognized as the Best Overall Practice Management System in 2020 by Software Pundit. As CEO, Howard has actively worked to challenge and redefine what it means to be a successful leader. By emphasizing a human-first approach and leveraging his psychology background, Howard has built a work culture that speaks to the very core of its employees and its customers. In 2020, SimplePractice was honorably recognized as one of Forbes’ Best Start-Up Employers and BuiltinLA’s Best Places to Work. Tune in to hear Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin talk with Howard about entrepreneurship with empathy!
Grief occurs when we have experienced the loss of someone we love, and it is one of the most intense baseline emotions we may encounter. In this episode, Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete discuss the stages of grief as originally defined by Dr. Elizabeth Kubler-Ross, the differences between grief, sadness and depression, and how honoring our emotion of grief can serve to connect us to those we love and have lost. Tune in to learn more about how to mindfully experience this difficult aspect of human struggle.
Did you ever imagine that most of your human interactions would be two-dimensional? 2020 saw the transition to connecting with others through predominantly digital means to increase safety during the covid-19 pandemic. In this episode, Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin discuss the impact this significant increase in screen time has on our mental well-being, our ability to feel connected to others, and how to mitigate the effects of screen fatigue.
The brain is hard wired to judge, so don’t judge the judging! In this episode, Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin discuss both the evolutionary and biological function of judgments, as well as how mindfulness can help us to cultivate the ability to practice nonjudgmental stance in order to experience the world more accurately. While we can’t turn off this part of our brain, we can learn to interact it with in a more adaptive way. Tune in to learn how.
Motivation may be one of the most misunderstood emotions that we have, often leading to a belief that we need to feel motivated in order to make changes in our lives. In this episode, Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete define motivation and identify its limitations in helping us to change our behavior, and contrast it with willingness, which is a requisite for behavior change. While motivation may come and go, Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin discuss how willingness can be cultivated through mindful practices. Check out Dr. Rubin’s guest appearance on “The Trusty Spotter” where she discusses how this applies to starting an exercise routine.
The pandemic has increased the onset of unhealthy eating habits, which can lead to body image issues as well. In this episode, Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete welcome clinical psychologist and author Danielle Keenan-Miller, Ph.D. to discuss different types of disordered eating, ways to address it, and how to reconnect with eating as an important and often times joyful part of human experience.
Dr. Keenan-Miller is a psychological scientist, teacher, therapist, and co-author of the book The Binge Eating Prevention Workbook. She is the director of the UCLA Psychology Clinic, and Associate Adjunct Professor of Psychology at UCLA, where she trains graduate students in evidence-based psychotherapy. She has authored over a dozen scientific articles and serves on the executive board of the Association for Psychology Training Clinics. She also maintains a private practice in Los Angeles where she blends the art and science of psychotherapy.
For more tips and wisdom, follow Dr. Keenan-Miller @KnowsPsychology on Twitter.
In this episode, Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin start a conversation about the role of sex in human connection, while also distinguishing between the biological function of sex, sexual behavior, and intimacy. They model a mindful approach to exploring a discussion about sex by cultivating curiosity and nonjudgment, while also understanding behavioral functions of this aspect of human experience. By the end there was one clear finding- Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin will definitely need another episode to continue this conversation.
Cancel culture is "the popular practice of withdrawing support for (canceling) public figures and companies after they have done or said something considered objectionable or offensive. [It's] generally discussed as being performed on social media in the form of group shaming” (Dictionary.com y'all). Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete discuss why cancel culture may have developed, the difference between holding others accountable and “canceling” someone, and the problem with pervasive “canceling” given the inherent messiness and mistake-prone nature of being human.
Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin discuss the Zen Buddhist of concept of Shoshin, aka Beginner's Mind, in which individuals learn to approach each moment with curiosity and openness as if experiencing something for the first time. They identify ways to begin to behaviorally practice this and Dr. Pete discusses specific examples from his new book, Mindfulness Workbook for Beginners.
Welcome back to WEMW with your two favorite psychologists, Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin. Most people avoid change, and yet in 2021 there were millions of people ecstatic for it. In this first episode of season 2, Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete discuss the relationship between change and discomfort, and how growth and evolution can’t exist without it. Tune in to learn about change, acceptance, and concepts from Buddhism such as impermanence, insight and how nothing is inherently fixed.
Well, Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin took this journey in 2020 starting When East Meets West. It feels like they have been doing this for ages, and their relationship is palpable. They discuss the time together this first season, and reflect on the past 34 episodes! If you have topics to share with us and you wish to contact the docs to discuss, send us a note: info@wheneastmeetswest.us. We can’t wait for you to hear more in 2021!
Dr. Rubin presents how the past 6 months has felt like 60 years, as she discusses the role of acceptance in behaviorism with Dr. Pete. On the next to last episode in 2020, Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete address ways to practice acceptance within western behaviorism and eastern philosophy. If you are like most humans in the year 2020, and beyond, you would benefit from learning about ways to practice acceptance.
There is nothing that we do that cannot be understood through behaviorism. Nothing. Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin explain how learning theory is fundamentally woven into all aspects of being human. Whether it is a holiday dinner, career, or romance, we can use behavioral science to learn to improve how we interact with one another and ourselves . Tune in to learn how.
People and animals benefit from one another biologically, psychologically, and more. Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin discuss the evolutionary history of the relationship between dogs and humans (you can learn more here: https://apple.news/AGtTvq4x_ROSLiBhO84Mo4w), as well as share their love for dogs (no offense cat people), and identify how behavioral science is related to dog ownership.
Everyone loves a good laugh, right? Have you ever watched some of those videos online of a child belly-laughing? There are real psychological benefits of humor, including cultivating joy and connection, increasing psychological flexibility, and tolerating distress. In this episode, Dr. Rubin highlights how humor may behaviorally present in both helpful and unhelpful ways, and Dr. Pete shares how Buddhist teachings conceptualize humor, including pop culture examples (e.g. Bernie Glassman and Jeff Bridges, “The Dude and the Zen Master”).
As we continue to experience this global pandemic, isolation from others remains a consistent consequence. In this episode, Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin discuss the impact of isolation on mental health and well-being, and identify how eastern and western psychological approaches conceptualize and address this experience. Coping skills listeners may try while managing isolation and/or quarantine are presented as well.
As we end another cycle of a U.S. election, we are all feeling like we’ve had enough. The split between the country during this election cycle was palpable. In this episode, Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete define and compare the values of individualism (dominant in the U.S.) and collectivism (often dominant in eastern cultures and traditions). They discuss the advantages and disadvantages of each value, and their perspectives on how individualism might explain some current voter behavior.
In this episode, Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin discuss what has been called “election stress disorder.” While technically not a real psychological disorder, you’re unlikely to find someone who hasn’t experienced distress and uncertainty related to the 2020 American election. Tune in to learn about how to navigate election stress from November 3rd on.
We have all met someone who told us to “look on the bright side” while we were in the midst of a painful or difficult experience. While this suggestion may be well intentioned, this type of positive lens may also be invalidating, and make you feel like there is something wrong with you for having a hard time. In this episode, Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete define toxic positivity, discuss how it can actually negatively impact our mood, and identify ways to connect with and practice optimism instead. Dr. Pete references the chant of gratitude, to learn more visit: https://sites.google.com/view/morningstarzen/chants/practice-of-gratitute?authuser=0
We have all encountered someone who does not have the same respect for the rules as others, or who believes that the rules simply do not apply to them at all! In this episode, Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete discuss entitlement, and how entitled behavior suggests that someone has difficulty taking the perspective of others. The impact of entitlement, as well as how mindfulness can begin to improve perspective taking, are discussed.
Stress is something that everyone experiences, especially in 2020. Although it's common, stress can have a negative effect on our overall well-being and physical health without proper awareness and coping skills. Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete discuss the impact of stress, and offer ways to manage it using behavioral tools and mindfulness practices.
In this special extra episode, our first guest Dr. Robyn Walser joined Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete for a conversation on existentialism within behaviorism. Dr. Walser is a scholar and practitioner in the field of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and has authored many books and research articles. Her books are titled: The Heart of ACT: Developing a Flexible and Process-Based Practice Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Learning ACT-2nd Edition, ACT for Moral Injury, The Mindful Couple, ACT for Clergy and Pastoral Counselors: Using Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to Bridge Psychological and Spiritual Care, and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy for the Treatment of Posttraumatic Stress disorder.
**Listen to learn about the work of existentialism within the practice and science of behaviorism.
You can learn more about Dr. Walser here:** http://www.tlconsultationservices.com
Today the docs discuss one of Dr. Rubin's favorite things in psychology: dialectics! In this episode Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete break down the effects of polarization on our social relationships, describe how polarization is a common consequence of our brain's wiring, and how dialectics can help (don't worry, they'll define it). Tune in to learn how to manage polarization and hopefully become more dialectical.
To learn more about WEMW, check out the website.
2020 has been identified as a year to remember; global pandemic, wild fires, racial tensions at an all time high, earthquakes, and political unrest. In this episode, Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin address the science of social inequities, as well as identify how the Buddhist concept of equanimity may help us understand how to begin to address these problems in small ways.
In this episode Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete recommend researching: Mindfulness for the People and the Harvard Implicit Bias Test.
Check out WEMW to learn more about Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin.
Has anyone ever called you controlling? On this episode, Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin discuss what it means to be controlling from a western psychological lens (emphasizing the role of rigidity), in addition to highlighting principles related to mindfulness and how these may have an impact on control. Listen to this episode to learn strategies to manage an urge to control outcomes.
Dr. Rubin worked in women's reproductive behavioral health during her time on the east coast, and continues to treat these struggles on the west coast. In this episode, Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin discuss the many challenges women may face postpartum, specifically with regards to symptoms on the anxiety spectrum given that these have generally received less public attention than depressive symptoms. Tune in to learn more about postpartum challenges and how fantasy narratives about pregnancy and new motherhood may exacerbate them.
How is your screen time? Check it out before you listen to this episode, because in this episode Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete address the advantages and disadvantages of social media in our lives and our mental well-being. Dr. Rubin shares her views and beliefs for not using social media and, in contrast, Dr. Pete has an active Instagram account (find him @officialdrpete). Tune in to learn what kind of relationship with social media might work best for you.
Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin discuss the difference between religion and spirituality, and how spirituality is often misconstrued, misunderstood, or judged. This episode focuses on the eastern practice of mindfulness and how this may blend with the western aim to seek meaning in life. Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin also discuss how they came to connect with their own experiences of spirituality, while encouraging listeners to become curious about what spirituality might mean to them.
Does it ever seem as though life feels too uncertain at times? In this episode, Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete address the science behind uncertainty, and why evolution selected for brains to assume that not knowing something is equivalent to danger. They explore how western behavioral science and eastern spirituality both help humans to accept what we don't know (even when we inaccurately believe that planning will help us know the future). Tune in to learn more about how to interact more effectively with uncertainty.
The COVID-19 pandemic has disrupted many of our routines and experiences, including those in the world of sports. Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin discuss the suspension of fall 2020 sports in the NCAA, and the tremendous impact this has on student-athletes, coaches, staff, administration, and fans. Given that American culture is often defined by sport-identity, sport psychology has become more important than ever. Tune in to learn how this context may serve as a broader metaphor in learning how to navigate unexpected and difficult circumstances.
What is gratitude exactly? Being thankful or appreciative, or something more? Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin discuss how gratitude can be a part of a Buddhist practice, the psychological benefits of gratitude, and the behaviors that help us to practice this value. Tune in to learn about the many ways we can connect with gratitude in our lives.
All of us have a self-critic inside, whether we like it or not. Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete use sarcasm and humor as they talk about the role of the brain's "inner critic." They discuss how mindfulness and Buddhism address self-criticism, and identify the role the inner critic plays in psychological suffering. Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete also discuss how behaviorism understands the self-critical voice, and present steps to begin to quiet it just a little bit.
Do you want to feel calm? Buddhism and Western psychology both aim to cultivate a sense of calm, but often in different ways than we might expect. Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin discuss how a state of calm can impact performance and your daily life, as well as clarify how chasing a state of calm gets us into trouble. They even mentioned Yerkes Dodson performance curve. Check it out!
Anxiety is a natural emotion that all humans and most, if not all, living beings experience. In this episode, Dr. Rubin leads the conversation on evolution and how anxiety is adaptive for the 40,000 year old part of our brains. Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete talk about building a more effective relationship with anxiety when it inevitably shows up.
If you are addicted to listening to WEMW, you have heard Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin say "be present, be brave" at the sign off of each episode. Tune into this episode to learn why the docs chose this tag line and what it represents in the world of Eastern spirituality and Western behavioral science.
In this episode, the docs take a deep dive into how righteousness and rigid thinking affect behavior and interpersonal relationships. Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete reflect on personal examples where they struggle to let go of wanting to be right, and identify how they are able to choose being effective instead. Mindfulness-based concepts and behavioral tools to address the tempting desire to be right are discussed.
Have you tried to talk to someone who does not share your world views, like wearing a mask or not? In this episode, Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin discuss ways to communicate effectively with loved ones who you disagree with in some way. We often avoid these tough conversations because they’re uncomfortable—the WEMW docs talk about why it’s important to consider choosing to start them any way. Tune in to hear how to begin these difficult dialogues.
Have you tried to live with compassion? Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin talk about compassion as a clinical intervention and as a way of life; of course, they address how compassion fits into behavioral science within the third wave CBT world. Listen in to see how you can practice compassion in your life, and how it can help you!
Brene Brown became a household sensation after a famous TED talk about her research on vulnerability as a professor of social work in Texas. In this episode, Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete talk about their personal experiences with practicing vulnerability, how people can benefit from being vulnerable, and how vulnerability can help us learn to connect with and act aligned with our values.
Do you consider yourself to be a perfectionist? Dr. Rubin and Dr. Pete reframe the idea of what being a perfectionist is, and discuss whether or not every human is actually a perfectionist in some way. Tune in to learn how they redefine perfectionism--get ready, they even offer a new definition (linear-ness).
Many of us have tried to meditate, especially with the increased presence of mindfulness in the West (thanks to more access and knowledge about it via the internet and popular apps). In this episode Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin discuss the science of meditation, their journeys with meditation, and offer some strategies for how to begin a meditation practice.
For years there have been social issues related to racial inequalities. While this has happened all over the world (e.g., apartheid), the United States has suffered from this polarity during the pandemic. In this episode Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin discuss the two pandemics in the world and start the conversation around the psychology of race, power and privilege.
Have you ever felt proud that you handled a situation well, easily got over a frustration, or overcame the loss of someone or a pet? You were likely using coping skills. In this episode, Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin talk about the science behind coping skills and even share some of their favorite skills they use personally.
In this episode Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin discuss the practice of acceptance from both western and eastern perspectives. While this concept may seem easy to talk about on the surface, in reality it is one of the hardest behaviors to do. Learn about behavioral mechanisms at play during the practice of acceptance.
In this first episode, you are introduced to Dr. Pete Economou from New Jersey and Dr. Nikki Rubin from California. They met while training in New Jersey, and both practice 3rd wave cognitive behavioral therapies (CBT) where they use mindfulness-based interventions. Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin quickly realized they were cut from the same cloth AND were quite different at the same time. Throughout WEMW you will find a blend of education and entertainment. Enjoy and nice to meet you!
Listen to a small taste of Dr. Pete and Dr. Rubin, as we bring you When East Meets West.