• #79 Loving to Know and Subsidiary-Focal Integration with Esther Lightcap Meek
    Dec 23 2025

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    from-to fractals, Michael Polanyi, Indeterminate Future Manifestations, the difference between information and knowledge, epistemological therapy and some laughter and good cheer

    Happy holidays! To skip the research ramble, go to 26:30. This episode explores the intricate relationships between knowledge, information, reality, and love with guest Esther Lightcap Meek. Building on the ideas of Michael Polanyi, Esther and Andrea delve into the concept of ‘focal subsidiary integration’ and its implications for how we understand reality. The conversation addresses the limitations of viewing knowledge merely as information, the importance of bodily cognition, and how love and communion with the real are fundamental to genuine knowing. It shows how philosophy can be understood as therapeutic, a dynamic process that connects us deeply with ourselves, each other, and the world.

    00:00 Introduction to the Concept of Reality and Information

    01:46 The Role of Subsidiary and Focal Integration

    03:36 Exploring Covenant Epistemology

    04:54 Understanding Bodily Cognition

    06:44 Introducing Esther Lightcap Meek

    08:50 The Journey of a Philosopher

    10:46 The Importance of Subsidiary Focal Integration

    13:02 Practical Applications and Everyday Philosophy

    16:40 The Role of Philosophy in Real Life

    26:31 A Conversation with Esther Lightcap Meek

    49:34 Integrative Knowledge and Liberation

    50:25 Epistemological Therapy and Embodied Cognition

    52:37 The Role of Subsidiary Focal Integration

    54:58 Daisy of Dichotomies and Modernity

    57:54 The Interpersonal Nature of Knowledge

    01:11:20 Covenant Epistemology in Education

    01:18:35 AI, Tools, and the Real

    01:29:14 The Role of Love in Knowing

    A professional philosopher, author and speaker, Esther offers her own distinctive, down-to-earth, approach to the philosophical matters that ground and permeate our lives: humanness, meaning, reality, knowing. The book Andrea and Esther discuss here is Loving to Know.
    Link here to Esther’s work and books: https://www.estherlightcapmeek.com


    Tacit Knowledge

    Michael Polanyi

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    1 hr and 35 mins
  • Hippocampus Love: Action at a Distance and the bridge of Memory, Part 4 with Lynn Nadel
    Dec 14 2025

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    Maybe memory is a way we communicate with ourselves and the world at various layers, a bridging experience of what we call time and space.

    In this episode, Andrea Hiott and Lynn Nadel continue their ongoing talks about memory. This time they explore the intricate workings of the hippocampus, focusing on its role in bridging spatial and temporal gaps. They delve into how memory, navigation, and cognitive maps are interconnected, challenging traditional views and opening up discussions on the dynamic nature of memory.

    Lynn shares insights from this paper, discusses how past research has evolved, touching upon philosophical perspectives from Kant and modern neuroscience findings. The conversation also briefly touches on the broader implications, including how understanding the hippocampus might extend to broader cognitive functions and societal interactions. There’s an in-depth ‘research ramble’ from Andrea at the beginning for those interested in the wider themes of this whole project, but you can also skip past that and go to the main conversation if you wish.

    The main paper discussed here is The Hippocampal Formation and Action at a Distance

    Lynn Nadel is an American psychologist who is the Regents’ Professor of psychology at the University of Arizona. Nadel specializes in memory, and has investigated the role of the hippocampus in memory formation. Together with John O’Keefe, he coauthored the influential 1978 book The Hippocampus as a Cognitive Map.

    00:00 Introduction to Hippocampal Function
    02:07 The Role of Memory and Space
    11:38 Philosophical Insights on Space and Time
    15:50 Quantum Entanglement and Memory
    28:48 Hippocampus as a Cognitive Map
    43:43 Encouragement and Introduction to Lynn Nadel
    44:30 Discussing the Paper: The Hippocampal Formation and Action at a Distance
    44:55 Linking Time and Space: The Role of the Hippocampus
    47:21 Memory and Cognitive Maps
    49:59 The Evolution of Cognitive Map Theory
    51:34 Intertwining Memory and Navigation
    01:04:30 Philosophical Perspectives on Space and Time
    01:09:37 Innate Structures and Evolutionary Adaptations
    01:16:08 Plant Cognition and Tropisms
    01:16:59 The Importance of Memory
    01:17:39 Cognitive Maps in Animals
    01:17:57 Symposium and Research Updates
    01:19:08 Locomotion and Cognitive Needs
    01:20:54 Internal Models and Memory
    01:23:27 Temporal Contiguity vs. Contingency
    01:29:26 Dynamics of Memory
    01:35:11 Concluding Thoughts and Future Plans
    01:36:34 Hippocampus and Social Interactions


    Previous conversations with Lynn and Andrea

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    The Hippocampal Formation and Action at a Distance

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    1 hr and 40 mins
  • #78 Holding Love & Power (Without Losing Either) with policy advisor Jamie Bristow
    Dec 7 2025

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    Hey everybody.

    This podcast is about seemingly impossible combinations and this one is the doozy of love and power. It’s about the politics of care. Or love in politics. Can you hold those words at once? Can we? We might be surprised by ourselves.

    Jamie Bristow has spent the last fifteen years bringing mindfulness and contemplative practices into the British Parliament, the UN, and halls of power around the world. And now he’s decided love is the only answer. But what happens when you bring the language of love into spaces where we typically speak only of power via politics?


    This episode, hosted by philosopher and cognitive scientist Andrea Hiott, delves into the intersection of love and power in political and personal realms. Guest Jamie Bristow, with his extensive experience in the British Parliament and the UN, explores how mindfulness, consciousness, and inner transformation can reshape politics and society. Through discussing concepts like Eros, resilience, and ontological meta modernism, the conversation examines how personal and societal change can be navigated, holding love and power together to create meaningful transformation. The episode also touches on Jamie's journey from a corporate advertising executive to a 'legitimizing agent' for contemplative practices in politics, highlighting the role of faith, trust, and the evolving nature of consciousness.

    Jamie is a policy advisor working at the intersection of inner & outer transformation, resilience and sustainability

    Find Jamie and his work here


    00:00 The Sacred Nature of Power
    02:05 Introduction to Love and Philosophy
    02:25 Exploring Love and Power in Politics
    03:14 Jamie Bristow's Journey
    08:41 Mindfulness in Parliament
    18:38 The Intersection of Inner and Outer Worlds
    31:51 The Role of Love and Power in Society
    43:45 Exploring the Concept of Eros
    44:23 The Broader Implications of Eros
    46:33 Love as a Cosmic Force
    47:43 Resilience and the Role of Love
    52:51 Trust and Faith in Personal Growth
    55:43 The Politics of Love
    01:14:06 Navigating Modernity and Postmodernity
    01:19:18 The Middle Way and Superposition
    01:27:50 Closing Reflections on Love and Philosophy


    The System Within: addressing the inner dimensions of sustainability and systems transformation
    Mindfulness in Westminster: Reflections from UK Politicians
    Reconnection: Meeting the Climate Crisis Inside Out
    The Conscious Food Systems Alliance (UNDP)
    Power & Love: A Theory and Practice of Social Change by Adam Kahane
    Political Emotions: Why Love Matters for Justice - Martha Nussbaum

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    1 hr and 28 mins
  • #77 Evolving Language by Embracing Paradox with Lisa Maroski
    Nov 30 2025

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    This episode, hosted by philosopher Andrea Hiott, explores the concept of embracing paradox with Lisa Maroski, author of 'Embracing Paradox, Evolving Language.' The discussion delves into how our language separates concepts, leading to binary thinking, and how questioning and reexamining these linguistic habits can foster a deeper understanding of interconnectedness. Using the metaphor of the Mobius Strip, Lisa explains the importance of holding multiple truths simultaneously and the potential for transforming our worldview. They touch on various topics, including the influence of language on culture, the need for a new way of thinking to address global crises, and the role of love and trust in fostering connection. The conversation encourages listeners to see beyond binary choices and embrace a more integrated, kaleidoscopic approach to understanding and caring for the world.
    www.lisamaroski.com


    00:00 Introduction to Paradoxical Thinking
    02:54 Welcome to Love and Philosophy
    03:23 Exploring Language and Cognitive Boundaries
    04:08 Introducing Lisa and Her Book
    05:21 The Mobius Strip Metaphor
    06:03 The Complexity of Language and Culture
    26:20 Dynamic Processes and Biological Insights
    28:48 The Existential Motivation for Change
    32:15 Exploring New Ways of Being
    33:54 Interconnectedness and Environmental Awareness
    38:35 The Power of Questions
    48:40 Learning from Different Perspectives
    51:45 Language and Collective Change
    58:27 Embracing Paradox and Wholeness
    01:00:40 Final Thoughts and Book Recommendations

    L.E. (Lisa) Maroski didn’t intend to become an editor, it just so happened that she was good at helping people say what they really wanted to say, not what they wrote. After years of doing that for others, she turned her trade on herself, publishing a novel, The One That Is Both, in 2006 and Embracing Paradox, Evolving Language in 2024. Both books derive from a deep desire for language to be able to “do more.” A third book that continues this theme is in development. Having studied philosophy and psychology but working in medical editing and writing, she considers herself a generalist, one who likes to make connections between ideas. An avid dancer, she balances mind with motion, lofty thoughts with high kicks. You might find her dancing tango somewhere…

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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • #76 The Care of Things: Philosophy of Maintenance & Making Things Last with Jérome Denis and David Pontille
    Nov 23 2025

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    Rethinking Everyday Care with Jérome Denis and David Pontille

    In this episode of Love and Philosophy, host Andrea explores the often overlooked but essential realm of maintenance and care, diving into its philosophical, social, and political dimensions. Joined by guests Jérome Denis and David Pontille, accomplished scholars from France, the discussion delves into how maintenance connects with the theories of care, the work of influential figures like Bruno Latour, and the interdisciplinary field of Science and Technology Studies (STS). They unpack the intricate relationship between humans and objects, examining concepts like fragility, multisensory engagement, and the distinction between maintenance and repair. Highlighting the everyday labor involved in maintaining objects and environments—from subway signs to classic cars—the conversation underscores the need to recognize and value the unseen work that sustains our daily lives. The episode draws on rich examples, including the upkeep of the Paris Metro and the care of classic Mustangs, to illustrate the profound impact of maintenance on our understanding of relationships, both material and social.

    The book is available in English and French from all major booksellers:
    The Care of Things: Ethics and Politics of Maintenance

    00:00 Introduction to Maintenance and Care
    00:30 Welcome to Love and Philosophy
    00:56 Exploring Science and Technology Studies (STS)
    01:40 Bruno Latour and Actor-Network Theory
    03:45 The Care of Things: Introducing the Guests
    04:43 The Paris Metro Signage Study
    05:08 The Philosophy of Maintenance
    06:09 The Role of Maintenance Workers
    07:34 Fragility and the Importance of Care
    11:08 Multisensory Engagement in Maintenance
    12:56 The Mundane Expertise of Maintenance
    42:19 The Drama of Maintenance
    42:50 Maintenance vs. Repair: A Philosophical Dive
    44:08 The Heroism in Repair
    46:59 John Oliver's Take on Infrastructure
    49:10 Classic Mustang Maintenance
    54:17 The Ambiguities of Maintenance
    57:17 Care as Work: A Feminist Perspective
    59:28 The Cost of Maintenance
    59:58 The Myth of Autonomy in Technology
    01:03:25 Personal Reflections on Maintenance
    01:20:16 The Role of Love in Maintenance

    John Oliver Infrastructure Clip

    Jérome Denis is Director of the Centre de sociologie de l'innovation at Mines Paris-PSL.

    David Pontille is Director of Research at Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS) in Paris.

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    1 hr and 24 mins
  • #75 Hyperscanning & Human Connection: Synchronization and the Third Brain with Biologist Nicolás Hinrichs
    Nov 11 2025

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    Neuroscience, Geometric Hyperscanning, and Real Time Relation

    Andrea welcomes Nicolás to discuss the cutting-edge neuroscience technique of hyperscanning, which records brain activity from two or more individuals simultaneously during social interactions. They dive into how hyperscanning reveals brain synchronization reflecting shared attention, empathy, and effective communication. The conversation highlights the broader applications, from studying parent-child bonding and social disorders to advancing mental health interventions. The discussion also touches on integrating philosophical insights to better understand social interactions, emphasizing the importance of holding scientific paradoxes and envisioning a more holistic approach to studying human connection.

    Watch Nicolás Hinrich's Active Inference Institute recorded talk here

    Geometric Hyperscanning of Affect under Active Inference

    On a Geometry of Interbrain Networks

    Nico's homepage

    Watch on YouTube

    Read more about this on Substack

    The Art of Asynchrony

    00:00 Welcome to Love and Philosophy
    01:03 Introduction to Hyperscanning
    01:37 Mechanics and Applications of Hyperscanning
    03:16 Neural Synchrony and Its Implications
    04:36 Exploring Jung's Synchronicity
    07:52 Active Inference and Social Synchrony
    13:50 Practical Considerations and Future Directions
    38:47 Introduction to Prisma and Hyper Scanning
    39:28 Extending Prisma Methodology
    40:55 Philosophy and Neuroscience Integration
    41:51 Participatory Sense Making and Hyper Scanning
    43:01 Holding Paradoxes in Research
    46:51 Geometric Thinking in Hyper Scanning
    52:26 Temporal Aiming and Synchrony
    59:30 Neuroprotective Rituals and Mental Health
    01:07:23 Balancing Science and Art in Research
    01:16:04 Concluding Thoughts on Hyper Scanning and Care

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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • Moving Beyond Binaries in Education: Andrea Hiott in Conversation with Tim Logan on Future Learning Design
    Oct 31 2025

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    Moving Beyond Binaries in Education - A Conversation with Tim Logan

    This bonus episode features a conversation with Tim Logan from his podcast The Future Learning Design. In this episode, Tim and Andrea are discussing advancements and challenges in education. They explore themes such as the limitations of traditional education frameworks, the emerging insights from 4E cognitive science, and the importance of embodied, relational and ecological approaches to cognition. They also discuss the disorienting yet exciting potential of understanding education as a living, dynamic process. Through it all, the conversation emphasizes the importance of love, attention, and awareness in reshaping educational paradigms. Check out Tim Logan's work with Good Impact Labs and connect with him on LinkedIn.

    00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview
    01:49 Starting the Podcast Episode
    02:43 Exploring Cognitive Science
    05:16 The Role of Education
    08:52 Challenges in Education Systems
    13:19 The Future of Learning and Technology
    22:38 Navigating Educational Metrics
    30:54 Exploring the Teacher-Student Dynamic
    32:13 Implicit vs Explicit Learning
    35:33 The Importance of Context in Education
    36:32 The Third Entity in Education
    40:56 Sensing and Cognition
    48:49 The Relational Process of Educating
    53:47 Concluding Thoughts on Education and Love

    Tim Logan is an education leader, connector and facilitator. Tim moves projects from innovative learning design to effectively executing ideas on the ground, swiftly. Bringing his extensive learnings and insights from a global career in youth work, teaching, school leadership and consultancy, Tim has worked with prominent clients around the world to develop new and innovative approaches to learning, well-being and youth engagement. He has most recently worked with International Baccalaureate, Nordic Bildung and Nora Bateson’s team at International Bateson Institute. Tim is also host/producer of the Future Learning Design podcast.

    Tim on LinkedIn

    PLATE & PONDER: EMPTY NESTING w/ Jen & Chris Fenton
    Where a recently empty-nesting married couple discuss explosive headlines over dinner.

    Listen on: Apple Podcasts Spotify

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    55 mins
  • #74 the Dynamics of Holding and Sharing: Authenticity, Maps, Masks & Voicecraft with Tim Adalin
    Oct 23 2025

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    Navigating the Depths of Voice, Authenticity, and Love with Tim Adalin
    In this episode of 'Love and Philosophy,' philosopher host Andrea Hiott engages in a profound conversation with Tim Adalin, founder of the Voicecraft Project in Australia and a philosopher and facilitator of philosophical events. They explore various themes such as the importance of voice, the distinction between holding and sharing space, and the challenges of maintaining authenticity in today's complex social landscapes. The discussion also delves into the nuanced dynamics of relationships, the transformative power of silence and presence, and the impact of technology on communication. Through personal anecdotes and philosophical insights, Tim and Andrea highlight the necessity of genuine connection and the cultivation of trust in relational contexts.

    00:00 The Essence of Voice and Presence
    00:58 The Generativity of Relationships
    05:23 Introduction to Love and Philosophy
    06:44 Thought Collectives and Communicative Patterns
    09:29 Voice Craft and Authentic Expression
    10:36 Holding and Sharing Space
    24:42 Navigating Modern Contexts and Leadership
    56:24 The Role of Masks and Maps in Expression
    01:08:16 Introduction to the Magic Flight Light Box
    01:08:36 Openness to Potentiality and Relationship
    01:10:35 Skepticism in Love and Leadership
    01:14:23 Navigating Digital Communication and Integrity
    01:25:49 The Role of Language and Technology
    02:08:26 The Importance of Silence and Presence
    02:20:08 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude
    02:22:05 Final Poem: Of Many Worlds in this World

    Voicecraft

    Tim Adalin

    Ludwig Fleck

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    Waymaking

    Love & Philosophy

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    2 hrs and 23 mins