The Emergence Room

In this episode of The Emergence Room, we continue our exploration of the things that don’t leave us – the inner forces, patterns, and experiences that stay with us and shape the way we move through life.This time, we’re joined by Solomon, a mental fitness trainer, coach, and co-founder of the Changemaker Collective.In a slightly different format, this conversation unfolds as a spacious and reflective dialogue, allowing Solomon to take us into both his personal story and the foundations of his work.While in other episodes “the thing that doesn’t leave” might be a passion, a value, or a calling, in this conversation it takes the form of a story — one that began in adolescence and quietly shaped Solomon’s inner world for years.Together, we explore how such inner narratives are formed, how they can both drive and limit us, and what it means to begin relating to them differently.Chapters in this episode00:00 Welcome01:35 Meet Solomon and His Work04:47 The Stories That Don’t Leave Us06:01 The Incompetence Story11:20 Solomon’s Path to Mental Fitness13:52 The Catch and Celebrate Tool18:23 Strengths and Self Compassion23:05 Being HumanOur speakerSolomon Mehta-Sladehttps://substack.com/@altacademyOur hostsYou can find more information on Rob:https://space2think.org/linkedin.com/in/robhusbandYou can find more information on Eveline:www.inwardcreations.comlinkedin.com/in/ehmvandenheuvel This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rhusband.substack.com/subscribe

In the opening episode of Series Three of The Emergence Room, we explore the “things that won’t leave us” – the intrinsic threads that quietly shape our lives over time. Rob reflects on pivotal moments from his journey, from hitchhiking revelations to a lifelong commitment to creating spaces for meaningful dialogue. Along the way, we examine the dynamic interplay between our inner drives and the forces that shape us from the outside, touching on themes of rage, creativity, and the courage it takes to use one’s voice. Chapters in this episode00:00 Introduction to Series 305:43 The Hitchhiking Revelation07:32 Justice, Love, and Rage11:30 The Power of Voice and Storytelling20:24 Creativity and Personal Expression30:51 The Importance of Safe Spaces38:51 Final Reflections and Invitation40:56 Poem: Soon I Will Leave Our hostsYou can find more information on Rob:https://space2think.org/linkedin.com/in/robhusbandThe poetry book “Moving Parts” by Rob Husband is now available on Amazon UK:https://www.amazon.co.uk/Moving-Parts-Rob-Husband/dp/1836710925/Rob’s latest music release “Moving Parts” is now available on Spotify:You can find more information on Eveline:www.inwardcreations.comlinkedin.com/in/ehmvandenheuvel This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rhusband.substack.com/subscribe

In this special episode, we bid farewell to our dear friend and previous podcast guest, Philip Roderick, who died recently.We revisit cherished moments from our last podcast conversation with him – his love for nature, the teachings of living with Parkinson’s, and his deep curiosity about the dance between joy and sorrow.The episode also features Philip’s own Hang drum music, along with a farewell poem written in his memory. Chapters in this episode00:00 Introduction and Tribute to Philip Roderick01:24 Philip’s Love for Nature03:21 Reflections on Learning and Teaching09:43 Creativity and Spirituality12:46 Living with Parkinson’s18:03 Final Reflections and Poem This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rhusband.substack.com/subscribe

In this last episode of our series on the Myth of Progress, we explore the concept of progress through the lens of a parable about a fisherman and a businessman, setting the stage for a deeper reflection on what it means to advance in life. We will also hear from two anonymous listeners, questioning whether the pursuit of progress always leads to fulfillment.The conversation delves into the distinction between "being" and "doing," examining how our drive for achievement is often rooted in a sense of dissatisfaction and the neurological interplay between pain and pleasure.The episode concludes by challenging the audience to consider their own motivations for progress, the impact of technology and routine on human experience, and the importance of self-awareness in shaping a meaningful life. Through stories, philosophical musings, and poetry, the episode invites listeners to reflect on when they are the "businessman" and when they are the "fisherman" in their own lives.Chapters in this episode00:00 The Fisherman's Tale03:04 First Anonymous Reflection04:52 Second Anonymous Reflection07:10 Being vs Doing11:19 The Pain-Pleasure Balance15:27 Simplicity and Complexity19:40 Concluding Reflections on this Series about the Myth of Progress20:40 Poem by Rob HusbandExternal References* Dopamine Nation by Anna Lembke: https://www.annalembke.com/dopamine-nation* Referenced Know Thyself podcast episode with Anna Lembke: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1UJOqn1NYk9YgsIT3RFaui?si=okKMjkB-TD6RrHcRYcNvNw* The Way Home by Mark Boyle: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/42515426-the-way-home* David Whyte on Routines, in his Consolations II Book: https://davidwhyte.substack.com/p/routine-eb1 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rhusband.substack.com/subscribe

This episode centers around a profound conversation with Skeena Rathor, a political activist and co-founder of Extinction Rebellion. The dialogue delves into the hidden depths of individuals we meet daily, the importance of acknowledging our ancestries, and the journey to fully arriving in relationships. Skeena shares insights into community, cultural connections, and how true progress is about fostering environments where life flourishes. The episode challenges listeners to rethink how they define and introduce themselves, emphasizing relational integrity and the heart's capacity to hold the world. Chapters in this episode00:00 Introduction: Reflecting on Strangers and Conversations02:23 Skeena's Introduction and Ancestral Invocation02:36 Political Activism and Spiritual Journey03:37 The Power of Ancestry and Relational Conversations05:22 Challenging Cultural Assumptions in Conversations10:18 The Importance of Arrival and Safety in Relationships19:36 Rematriation and Cosmologies25:30 Concluding Reflections and Poem by Rob Husband If you want to listen to the full unedited conversation with Skeena, head over to our Substack and subscribe to our premium plan. Our speakerSkeena Rathor* Instagram link to ‘Water is Love’ Film: https://www.instagram.com/p/DHn2RiTJYEE/?hl=en* Interview with Skeena on the Human Potential Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6CsJIYgBalWlf0TytZOo6E* Interview with Jonathan Weekes from Sacred Earth Activism: SEA Conference - Skeena Rathor: Co-liberation in the Change Movement* Article by Skeena on Jem Bendell’s website: https://jembendell.com/2025/03/22/water-is-love-restoring-an-ecological-approach-to-climate-change-and-beyond/ External references* Extinction Rebellion Website: Extinction Rebellion* Our Substack: https://substack.com/@robhusbandevelinevdh This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rhusband.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of 'On Being Human,' Eveline and Rob delve deep into the concept of progress with guest Sue. They challenge traditional views, drawing parallels with nature and life experiences. Sue shares her perspective on internal and external growth, using personal anecdotes from her Arctic expeditions and leadership coaching. The conversation also touches on the importance of finding joy in the present moment and the hidden growth that happens beneath the surface. Two poems, 'The Patience of Ordinary Things' by Pat Schneider and 'The Gardener' by Mary Oliver, serve as reflective pieces, encouraging listeners to reconsider their relationship with progress and find contentment in simple, everyday experiences.Chapters in this episode00:00 Introduction00:34 Welcome to On Being Human Podcast01:41 Exploring the Myth of Progress04:51 Decoupling Internal and External Progress05:41 Controlling the Controllable06:11 The Psychological Splasher Analogy07:54 Navigating Tensions and Individuality11:31 Evolution, Growth, and Personal Development20:21 Leadership and Growth Perspectives23:00 Sue's Self-Introduction and Curiosity24:50 Poetry and Reflection34:30 Final Thoughts and ExperimentOur speakerYou can find more information about Sue Stockdale at:* Sue’s website: https://suestockdale.com* Transformation Begins in the Mind | Sue Stockdale | TEDxRoyalHolloway: https://youtu.be/HZGkfLf66as* Sue’s Access to Inspiration Podcast: https://accesstoinspiration.org/* “Explore: A Life of Adventure” by Sue Stockdale: https://www.amazon.nl/-/en/Sue-Stockdale/dp/1909771325External referencesIf you want to learn more about the work referenced in our conversation:* The Johari Window: https://www.communicationtheory.org/the-johari-window-model/* The Patience of Ordinary Things, Pat Schneider: https://www.yourdailypoem.com/listpoem.jsp?poem_id=311* The Gardener, Mary Oliver: https://tellingthetruth1993.com/2022/04/25/the-gardener-mary-oliver/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rhusband.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the On Being Human podcast, we talk with Adie, a former senior leader in education, about his transition from a career driven by progress to a life focused on creativity and joy. We delve into the concept of the 'myth of progress,' discussing how societal and personal metrics often detract from experiencing life fully. Adie shares his journey of reclaiming his creative passions and the challenges and reflections that came with stepping away from a conventional career. The conversation explores the value of integrating play and creativity into adult lives and how current systems of measurement, especially in education, may need reevaluation to allow for more meaningful experiences. The episode concludes with thought-provoking prompts for listeners to assess their own metrics and values in life.Chapters in this episode00:00 Introduction to Playfulness and Progress01:36 Margaret Wheatley's Perspective on Progress03:09 Personal Reflections on Progress04:40 The Balance of Creativity and Ambition07:13 Transitioning from Career to Life Path10:11 The Joy of Creativity and Playfulness21:17 Challenging the Obsession with Growth23:27 Who is Adie?26:59 Reflections and Conclusion39:18 Final Thoughts and Experiment41:05 Recap of our Couch Session with AdieOur speakerYou can find more information about Adie and his music at: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BSKUyxC1q/https://www.facebook.com/adiebmuso/External referencesIf you want to learn more about the works referenced in our conversations please visit the following links:  * Margaret Wheatley: Who Do We Choose to Be? https://margaretwheatley.com/books/who-do-we-choose-to-be/* Charles Eisenstein: The Illusion of Progresshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nVsh9Z4WxlI This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rhusband.substack.com/subscribe

Episode 2 of Series 2 of the OnBeingHuman Podcast explores the concept of progress and challenges the traditional view of it. Mariah emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and understanding one's triggers to respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively. From within her own deep exploration of her own burn-out, Mariah presents the idea that progress is about being fully present with ourselves and making space for those parts that we might find hard to look at. The speakers challenge the idea that progress isn't about constant upward growth but about knowing when systems need to change or end to make space for new ideas. Mariah’s personal anecdotes from a career with Doctors Without Borders and founding a business, Yoni, illustrate the theme that true change comes from self-acceptance and compassion, rather than focusing solely on end goals and consumerism. Chapters in this episode00:00 Challenging the Myth of Progress02:28 Exploring Personal Views on Progress05:16 Internal vs External Progress10:11 Business Perspectives on Progress17:44 Personal Journey and Burnout20:20 Reflections on Self-Development and Goals Our speakerYou can find more information about Mariah Mansvelt-Beck at:https://yoni.care/our-story/https://youtu.be/WyZjuIchMUw?si=V0oRgVWmKCj2-X67TEDX Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XWCTQoF3mdAhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mariah-mansvelt-beck-64212a7/ External referencesIf you want to learn more about the work referenced in our conversations please visit the following links:  * Margaret Wheatley: Who Do We Choose to Be? https://margaretwheatley.com/books/who-do-we-choose-to-be/* The Paradoxical Theory of Change: https://gestalt.org/arnie.htm This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rhusband.substack.com/subscribe

In this opening episode of Series Two of the On Being Human podcast, we dive into the "myth of progress"—the deeply ingrained belief in constant growth, improvement, and forward motion. Our hosts Rob and Eveline reflect on how this narrative shapes our personal lives, businesses, and communities, often at odds with the natural world's cyclical rhythms. Drawing on Margaret Wheatley's thought-provoking book ‘Who Do We Choose to Be?’, they challenge the assumption that progress is inherently positive or inevitable. This conversation examines individual and collective ideas of growth, success, and meaning, inviting listeners to consider whether peace and fulfillment might lie in embracing cycles of rest, decline, and renewal.Chapters in this episode00:00 Introduction to the Myth of Progress02:04 Challenging the Growth Narrative04:35 Personal Development vs. World Improvement06:39 Existential Reflections on Progress09:18 The Role of Technology and Civilization19:00 Rethinking Death and Dying21:19 Conclusion and an Outlook of Series 2Our hostsYou can find more information on Rob:https://space2think.org/linkedin.com/in/robhusbandYou can find more information on Eveline:www.inwardcreations.comlinkedin.com/in/ehmvandenheuvelExternal referencesIf you want to learn more about the work referenced in our conversations please visit the following link:* Margaret Wheatley: Who Do We Choose to Be? https://margaretwheatley.com/books/who-do-we-choose-to-be/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rhusband.substack.com/subscribe

In this special episode, our hosts Eveline and Rob share their own experiences that led to them founding Space2BeHuman and the OnBeingHuman podcast.Dive deeper into the story and mission of this space, and get to know the two people behind it.Chapters in this episode00:00 Introduction to the special episode00:59 Rob’s story05:29 Trauma with a capital T vs. with a small T11:38 Sharing our stories with others16:21 Eveline’s story19:09 Creating a safe space to be human21:12 The offerings of Space2BeHuman22:15 Invitation and Final Thoughts This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rhusband.substack.com/subscribe

Last Thursday, we had our first Couch Session, a virtual campfire to reflect on content offered on our OnBeingHuman Podcast.The beauty of sharing and reflecting on a piece of inspiration in this way is not just that it forms deeper connections between friends, colleagues and loved ones. It also reflects what is true of any conversation. Any two people will reflect on a single piece of content differently. They will feel different. Sometimes they may make a completely opposite meaning of the content all together. The famous German poet Rainer Maria Rilke called it “the inifinite distances that exist between us.”We are so grateful for the wisdom that our audience brought, and we want to share some of these voices with you.Chapters in this episode00:00 Introduction01:15 First voice: Hope as a safety net and fuel01:53 Second voice: The gift of song02:10 Third voice: Closures bring opportunities03:21 Fourth voice: A puzzle of thoughts04:22 Fifth voice: Being watered by different perspectives04:55 Sixth voice: Examining notions of human existence06:12 Closing remarks and outlook for series 2 and 2025 This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rhusband.substack.com/subscribe

In the final episode of series 1, the hosts delve into responses from listeners about the most impactful stories in their lives. Three anonymous stories are shared, highlighting themes of abandonment, societal narratives, and the power of diagnosis. The hosts then reflect on their personal connections to these stories, exploring deeper themes such as the struggle between good and evil, the balance of joy and suffering, and the concept of progress in human history. The episode closes with an invitation for listeners to contribute to the next series, focused on exploring the potential myth of progress.External referencesIf you want to learn more about the work referenced in our conversations please visit the following links. * Margaret Wheatley: https://margaretwheatley.com/ / Book: Who do we Choose to Be? * Podcast Interview with Dr. Zach Bush: https://www.richroll.com/podcast/zach-bush-751/* Podcast Interview about the blind man who they called “Batman”: https://www.npr.org/programs/invisibilia/378577902/how-to-become-batman This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rhusband.substack.com/subscribe

This episode features a heartfelt and introspective conversation with Philip, recorded on his 75th birthday. Philip shares his profound reflections on nature, human experiences, and living with Parkinson's disease. Through his poetic and generous responses, he invites listeners to explore themes of lament, delight, creativity, and the importance of being present. The discussion is interwoven with personal anecdotes, metaphors, and Philip's deep connection to the natural world, offering a meditative and inspiring listening experience. Co-hosts Eveline and Rob further reflect on the conversation, adding poetry and insights that amplify the themes discussed.Chapters in this episode00:00 Introduction to Phillip's Episode01:31 Conversation with Phillip Begins04:31 Phillip's Relationship with Nature04:44 Stories and Myths Shaping Phillip's Life06:39 The Shy Man Archetype09:06 The Invitation and Revelation09:58 Encountering Tragedy and Injustice15:32 Creativity and Learning22:15 Phillip's Experience with Parkinson's27:39 Reflections and Insights28:51 Poetry and Final ThoughtsYou can find more information on Phillip:https://contemplativefire.org/learning-journey/beginnings/https://www.linkedin.com/in/philip-roderick-a105314/?originalSubdomain=ukhttps://quietgarden.org/philip-roderick-recogised-and-awarded-a-points-of-light-award/External referencesIf you want to learn more about the work referenced in our conversations please visit the following links. * Hannah Emerson: https://hannah-emerson.com/ Poem: Center of the Universe* Mary Oliver: https://maryoliver.com/ / Poem: The InvitationInvitation to our Couch SessionJoin us for our first virtual Couch Session on December 12th, 2024, from 5:30 - 6:30pm UK time. We will explore the stories of season 1 of the OnBeingHuman Podcast together with Philip and the other guest speakers. Get your ticket here. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rhusband.substack.com/subscribe

In the fourth episode of the On Being Human Podcast, Rob and Eveline delve into a thought-provoking conversation with Julian, a longtime friend, about the profound connections between our relationships with our fathers and our perceptions of the divine. The discussion, which started in a quirky pub in England, covers themes of selfishness, sacrifice, and the narratives that shape our spiritual beliefs. Julian reflects on a poignant childhood memory that shaped his understanding of sacrifice and traces significant insights back to his Christian upbringing and parental influence. We’ll also explore the balance of giving and receiving, the importance of forgiveness, and the ever-present underlying connection to the divine. Chapters in this episode00:00 Introduction and Welcome01:38 Julian's Early Reflections on Sacrifice02:31 Impact of Childhood Choices04:05 The Cost of Continual Sacrifice06:02 Questioning Faith and Beliefs10:10 Parental Influence on Divine Perception16:48 Forgiveness and Its Importance17:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts18:33 Julian's Self-Introduction19:41 Reflections on Parental Relationships and the Divine22:53 Nurturing the Divine Flame31:15 Recognizing and Shaping the Divine32:44 Invitation to OpennessMore information on Julianhttps://www.facebook.com/julian.surtees.9/https://www.instagram.com/surteesjulian/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rhusband.substack.com/subscribe

In the third episode of the 'On Being Human' podcast, the hosts interview Antonis, a young Greek student studying abroad in Germany. The conversation delves into Antonis’ awareness of self and the choices he makes in life. Antonis shares his journey of self-discovery, overcoming societal myths and expectations, and the importance of creating personal identity. He discusses the pressures of the Greek education system, his evolving sense of self, and the generational differences in dealing with today's challenges. The dialogue also touches on the role of young people in shaping the future, the power of social media, and the need for intergenerational understanding and cooperation. Chapters in this episode00:00 Welcome to the Podcast00:11 Meeting Antonis01:34 Antonis' School Life and Self-Discovery04:24 Breaking Free from Myths05:29 Exploring New Identities05:50 Comfort and Uncomfortableness08:35 The Power of Choice and Time Management12:49 Cultural Myths and National Identity14:26 Generational Perspectives and Climate Change19:57 The Role of Power and Social Media22:54 Personal Growth and Self-Awareness27:54 Antonis' Introduction and Personal Interests29:40 Reflections on Generational Differences34:20 The Importance of Youth Voices42:12 Creating Spaces for Intergenerational DialogueMore information on Antonishttps://www.instagram.com/goupios_antonis/https://www.facebook.com/antonis.goupioshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/antonios-theodoros-goupios-b7357b241/ External referencesIf you want to learn more about the work referenced in our conversations please visit the following links. * On Being, with Krista Tippet & Jason Reynolds https://onbeing.org/programs/jason-reynolds-imagination-and-fortitude/* The Guardian Article about “young people” https://www.theguardian.com/education/2009/mar/17/ephebiphobia-young-people-mosquito#:~:text=Later%2C%20in%20the%20fourth%20century,streets%2C%20inflamed%20with%20wild%20notions. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rhusband.substack.com/subscribe

In this episode of the On Being Human Podcast, Eva details her experience with burnout and the pressures of living up to the 'superwoman' narrative. She discusses the process of unlearning old narratives, recognizing the cultural and personal origins of these stories, and exploring new, healthier paths of being. Eva highlights the importance of practices like Yoga Nidra, meditation, and the support of loved ones in fostering rest and self-awareness. The discussion dives into transactional analysis concepts, exploring how early life 'drivers' shape behaviors and the antidotes that help reframe one's approach to life. The episode wraps with an emphasis on lightness and humor in the journey of personal growth.Chapters in this episode00:00 Introduction to the On Being Human Podcast00:05 Eva's Burnout and the Superwoman Narrative01:04 Exploring Societal Narratives and Personal Stories02:23 The Impact of Burnout on Personal Identity04:19 Unlearning Old Narratives and Embracing Imperfections06:54 The Role of Meditation and Rest in Healing07:56 Understanding and Detaching from Narratives20:11 Eva's Journey: From Rituals to Yoga Nidra24:06 Transactional Analysis and Drivers30:17 Balancing Drivers and Finding Antidotes40:46 Humor and Lightness in Addressing Personal NarrativesYou can find more information on Eva:https://www.instagram.com/new_york_angel/https://inwardcreations.com/External referencesIf you want to learn more about the work referenced in our conversations please visit the following links. * https://manchesterpsychotherapy.co.uk/transactional-analysis-drivers/ This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rhusband.substack.com/subscribe

In the first episode of the 'On Being Human' podcast, hosts Rob Husband and Eveline van den Heuvel explore the concept that every experience, culture, system, or person begins as a story. They discuss the impact of these root stories on our lives, particularly how we might outgrow them or be unaware of their limitations.The episode is divided into three parts: an initial discussion with the guest(s), personal introductions, and a reflective conversation featuring poetry and references. Rob and Eveline share their own foundational stories, consider the influences that shaped them, and contemplate the stories imposed by others. They reflect on how these narratives affect their current lives and professional choices, offering listeners insights and prompting personal contemplation.Chapters in this episode00:00 Introduction to the On Being Human Podcast02:40 Exploring Personal Myths and Stories03:32 Rob's Story: Being Good with People08:10 Eveline's Story: Naivety and Compassion13:11 Part 2: Host Introductions15:52 Part 3: Reflecting on Our Stories17:25 Parker J. Palmer's Insights on True Self21:14 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsYou can find more information on Rob:https://space2think.org/linkedin.com/in/robhusbandYou can find more information on Eveline:www.inwardcreations.comlinkedin.com/in/ehmvandenheuvelExternal referencesIf you want to learn more about the work referenced in our conversations please visit the following links: Parker J Palmer: https://couragerenewal.org/parker-j-palmer/ / Book: Let Your Life SpeakMusic by Guy Houchen This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit rhusband.substack.com/subscribe