Shows
When East Meets WestREWIND Into Where East Meets West: Dr. Pete and Dr. RubinPsychologists Dr. Pete Economou and Dr. Nikki Rubin re-introduce their podcast bridging Eastern mindfulness practices with Western behavioral science. They share their professional backgrounds, personal journeys with mindfulness, and mission to make psychological science accessible to help people suffer less.• Pete is a PhD counseling psychologist, Zen practitioner, and associate professor at Rutgers University• Nikki is a licensed clinical psychologist specializing in cognitive behavioral therapies and mindfulness• Both met 10 years ago during their clinical psychology internship in Newark, New Jersey• Pete's journey with mindfulness began before graduate school, leading to becoming a Zen practitioner• Ni...2025-04-0124 minWhen East Meets WestS4E30 The Five-Year Evolution of a Friendship turned PodcastDr. Pete and Dr. Rubin celebrate five years since their first podcast collaboration, reflecting on how their journey began during the pandemic and evolved into a successful partnership despite initial reluctance.• Pete convinced Nikki to start podcasting during the pandemic despite her private nature• Nikki went from "kicking and screaming" to embracing the podcast after experiencing how fun it was• Five years provides a meaningful timeframe for reflection on personal and professional growth• Different approaches to reflection: Nikki uses "intentional remembering" while Pete incorporates gratitude practices• Our brains evolved to remember negative experiences better tha...2025-03-2514 minWhen East Meets WestS4E27 Exploring Koans and Spiritual Wisdom Across CulturesCan koans untangle the complexities of our minds and offer a path to mental clarity? Explore this fascinating possibility with our special guest, Nikki, who passionately shares her experiences with these intricate Zen riddles. By challenging the intellectual mind, koans invite us into a space of simplicity and stillness, a concept that resonates deeply with the practice of meditation. We also reflect on how younger generations are more receptive to integrating mindfulness into their daily lives, potentially unlocking new avenues for mental clarity and balance. From "just sitting" in silence to appreciating the wisdom of being present, this discussion...2025-02-2515 minWhen East Meets WestS4E6 Breaking Stigmas: Athletes and Mental WellnessEver 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...2024-09-1016 minWhen East Meets WestS4E5 Paths to Personal Growth: The Differences Between Coaching and TherapyEver 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.2024-09-0319 minWhen East Meets WestS4E6 Letting Go of Knowing the Outcome: Identifying Imaginary InformationCan 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...2024-08-2713 minWhen East Meets WestS4E3 Exploring the Thin Line Between Secrecy and PrivacyCan 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...2024-08-2013 minWhen East Meets WestS4E1 Balancing Life and Work in a Hectic World: How to Interact with BusynessCan 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...2024-08-0919 minWhen East Meets WestS3E20 Ted LassoOver 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.vtoh0mn0xn7t3c643xqonfzyVisit http://www.wheneastmeetswest.us/ to l...2023-07-2112 minWhen East Meets WestS3E19 Private Practice and Finding a TherapistDr. 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...2023-07-1419 minWhen East Meets WestS3E18 LiberationDr. 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...2023-06-3015 minWhen East Meets WestS3E17 Distress ToleranceDr. 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 dis...2023-06-1613 minWhen East Meets WestS3E16 Delusions and IllusionsDr. 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. 2023-06-0914 minWhen East Meets WestS3E15 DistractionDistraction 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...2023-06-0214 minWhen East Meets WestS3E13_RenewalDr. 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).2023-05-1912 minWhen East Meets WestS3E12_ResilienceDr. 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. 2023-05-1216 minWhen East Meets WestS3E11_PanicDr. 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.2023-05-0522 minWhen East Meets WestS3E9_ConnectionConnectionDr. 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...2023-04-2120 minWhen East Meets WestS3E8_AngerAngerDr. 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!2023-04-1421 minWhen East Meets WestS3E7_RetreatsIn 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...2023-04-0715 minWhen East Meets WestS3E6_The ReturnThe 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...2023-03-3017 minWhen East Meets WestS3E5 Self Care HiatusHave 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.2022-04-2221 minWhen East Meets WestS3E3_The Rules DilemmaYou 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. 2022-02-0319 minWhen East Meets WestS3E2_Thich Naht HanhJanuary 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. 2022-01-2123 minWhen East Meets WestS2E37 Resolutions Season 2 FinaleOops, 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.2021-12-2921 minWhen East Meets WestS2E36_The Heart SutraDr. 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/2021-12-0114 minWhen East Meets WestS2E35_Perspective TakingHave 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.2021-11-2421 minWhen East Meets WestS2E34_Honoring the Father of Cognitive Therapy, Dr. Aaron T. BeckOn 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...2021-11-1716 minWhen East Meets WestS2E33_Risk TakingMost 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. 2021-11-1020 minWhen East Meets WestS2E32_AuthenticityMost 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).2021-11-0319 minWhen East Meets WestS2E29_MusicHave 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.2021-10-2019 minWhen East Meets WestS2E30_Worry and RuminationWhy 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. 2021-10-1316 minWhen East Meets WestS2E29_Koans in BuddhismYou’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!2021-10-0717 minWhen East Meets WestS2E28_Multi-taskingWe 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. 2021-09-2920 minWhen East Meets WestS2E27_SadnessAs 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.2021-09-2020 minWhen East Meets WestS2E26_LoveLove 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. 2021-07-2816 minWhen East Meets WestS2_Bonus3_Toxic Masculinity with Jean Semelfort, MA, LPCOn 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.2021-07-2127 minWhen East Meets WestS2E25_Emotion RegulationEmotions 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. 2021-07-1415 minWhen East Meets WestS2E24_Video GamesThere 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. 2021-07-0715 minWhen East Meets WestS2E23_The Problem with FreudWithout 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.2021-06-3022 minWhen East Meets WestS2E22_Health AnxietyAs 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. 2021-06-2220 minWhen East Meets WestS2E21_CompromiseIf 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.2021-06-1621 minWhen East Meets WestS2E20_GuiltNo 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.2021-06-0921 minWhen East Meets WestS2E19_East vs. WestToday 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...2021-06-0220 minWhen East Meets WestS2E18_CuriosityHumans 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. 2021-05-2619 minWhen East Meets WestS2E17_EnlightenmentEnlightenment 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.2021-05-1920 minWhen East Meets WestS2E16_IntuitionWhat 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.2021-05-1220 minWhen East Meets WestS2E15_BoundariesDo 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. 2021-05-0516 minWhen East Meets WestS2E14_ValuesFinally! 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. 2021-04-2818 minWhen East Meets WestS2E13_AdjustingWhether 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. 2021-04-2115 minWhen East Meets WestS2E12_Trigger WarningsHave 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 psycholo...2021-04-1422 minWhen East Meets WestS2E11_Flexibility and FreedomHow 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.2021-04-0721 minWhen East Meets WestS2E10_The Middle PathDr. 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. 2021-03-3121 minWhen East Meets WestS2E9_The Brain vs. The MindWhat 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.2021-03-2420 minWhen East Meets WestS2_Bonus2_Entrepreneurship with Empathy with Howard Spector, CEOHoward 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...2021-03-2233 minWhen East Meets WestS2E8_GriefGrief 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.2021-03-1723 minWhen East Meets WestS2E7_Screen FatigueDid 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.2021-03-1022 minWhen East Meets WestS2E6_Understanding JudgmentsThe 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. 2021-03-0319 minWhen East Meets WestS2E5_Motivation vs. WillingnessMotivation 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 a...2021-02-2420 minWhen East Meets WestS2_Bonus1_Disordered Eating with Danielle Keenan-Miller, Ph.D.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...2021-02-1934 minWhen East Meets WestS2E4_Sex and Human ConnectionIn 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. 2021-02-1721 minWhen East Meets WestS2E3_Cancel CultureCancel 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. 2021-02-1021 minWhen East Meets WestS2E2_Beginner’s MindDr. 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.2021-02-0317 minWhen East Meets WestS2E1_ChangeWelcome 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. 2021-01-2722 minWhen East Meets WestS1E34_Season 1 2020 FinaleWell, 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!2020-12-3021 minWhen East Meets WestS1E33_Radical Acceptance Part 2Dr. 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. 2020-12-2421 minWhen East Meets WestS1E32_Behaviorism is EverywhereThere 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. 2020-12-1421 minWhen East Meets WestS1E31_Dogs and Well-beingPeople 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.2020-12-0216 minWhen East Meets WestS1E30_HumorEveryone 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”).2020-11-2519 minWhen East Meets WestS1E29_Isolation and QuarantineAs 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.2020-11-1819 minWhen East Meets WestS1E28_Individualism and PoliticsAs 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. 2020-11-0924 minWhen East Meets WestS1E27_Election Stress DisorderIn 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.2020-11-0323 minWhen East Meets WestS1E26_Toxic PositivityWe 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: http...2020-10-2823 minWhen East Meets WestS1E25_EntitlementWe 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.2020-10-2119 minWhen East Meets WestS1E24_StressStress 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.2020-10-1421 minWhen East Meets WestS1_Bonus_Existentialism and Behaviorism with Robyn Walser, Ph.D.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...2020-10-0932 min