Whatever Amen : Consciousness http://whateveramen.com/category/podcasts/consciousness/ Whatever Whatever Amen Consciousness Podcast Page Mon, 09 Apr 2012 22:29:13 +0000 en hourly 1 http://wordpress.org/?v=Whatever Amen : Consciousness an inside-out view of being human Whatever Amen : Consciousness no an inside-out view of being human Whatever Amen : Consciousness http://whateveramen.com/wp-content/plugins/powerpress/rss_default.jpg http://whateveramen.com/category/podcasts/consciousness/ C42: Curling Up in a Ball in the Middle of the Floor http://whateveramen.com/c42-curling-up-in-a-ball-in-the-middle-of-the-floor/ http://whateveramen.com/c42-curling-up-in-a-ball-in-the-middle-of-the-floor/#comments Fri, 30 Mar 2012 01:24:40 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=1708 So, “for the fun of saying words,” my son Jonathan told me a bit about his “past session of craziness,” his frustration with his own emotional detachment, and wanting to vomit away the nonsense.

But, as you’ll hear, evenBrian Andreas Bittersweet when Jonathan is crazy and curled up in a ball on the floor, he’s still happy – because he’s allowed to curl up in a ball on the floor. (Speaking from my own experience I can say that yes, it really is that simple.)

He also talks about what he’s learned from his cats, about developing an appreciation for everything, about his fiancé’s skepticism of curling up in a ball (and why he’s grateful for that too),  and his new motto (“take your time as it comes”) which he likes for lots of reasons but especially because it doesn’t exactly make sense.

We unveil our new theories about the value of talking (or lack thereof).  Jonathan’s is that he agrees with everything that anyone has ever TRIED to say, it’s just that nobody ever succeeds at saying what they’re trying to say.  Mine is loosely connected to that picture going around of Rick Santorum composed of thousands of tiny pictures of gay porn.

We swoon over Brian Andreas’s art for a while, then get to wondering: What makes us want to curl up in a ball?  In response, Jonathan muses about people exposing their sensitive regions (unlike most animals), suggests that perhaps we slouch in order to hide, and reports some curiosity about the difference between putting palms up or down in meditation.Strange People by Brian Andreas

To top it all off, The Twenty-One Balloons by The World is Not Flat brings us another musical exploration of what it’s like to be a human being.

A pretty fun-filled and exciting bunch of things for a show about curling up in a ball, doncha think?

Whatever whatever.  Amen.

 

 

 

 
]]> http://whateveramen.com/c42-curling-up-in-a-ball-in-the-middle-of-the-floor/feed/ 0 Jonathan and I talk about craziness, frustration, words, truth, Brian Andreas, appreciating life, exposing our vulnerability, being a detective, and the tremendous luck of being allowed to curl up in a ball on the floor when it seems like the thing to do. Jonathan and I talk about craziness, frustration, words, truth, Brian Andreas, appreciating life, exposing our vulnerability, being a detective, and the tremendous luck of being allowed to curl up in a ball on the floor when it seems like the thing to do. Amy Childs | Whatever Amen no 35:44 C41: We’re All Confused http://whateveramen.com/c41-we%e2%80%99re-all-confused/ http://whateveramen.com/c41-we%e2%80%99re-all-confused/#comments Wed, 15 Feb 2012 03:03:22 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=1577 In the last Consciousness episode, Jonathan and I made a list of “our basic point of view in a nutshell,” and item number three was “Everyone is confused.”

Today I expand on this idea.  I hope it’s not too confusing.

At the end of the episode you get to hear a song from [drum roll please]… Carsie Blanton’s new CD! This is so exciting and not at all confusing. Yippee!

And happy valentines day too, while I’m at it.

xoAmy

 

PS:

“Don’t want to give the end away, but we’re all gonna die one day.”
-Carsie Blanton



]]> http://whateveramen.com/c41-we%e2%80%99re-all-confused/feed/ 0 In the last Consciousness episode, Jonathan and I made a list of “our basic point of view in a nutshell,” and item number three was “Everyone is confused.” Today I expand on this idea. I hope it’s not too confusing. In the last Consciousness episode, Jonathan and I made a list of “our basic point of view in a nutshell,” and item number three was “Everyone is confused.” Today I expand on this idea. I hope it’s not too confusing. Amy Childs | Whatever Amen no 25:07 C40: Basic Nutshell of Our Point of View (maybe) http://whateveramen.com/c40-basic-nutshell-of-our-point-of-view-maybe/ http://whateveramen.com/c40-basic-nutshell-of-our-point-of-view-maybe/#comments Sat, 07 Jan 2012 00:45:37 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=1337 Just before recording this episode, Jonathan had listened to the Consciousness37 episode of WWA, in which my guest (Daniel Mackler) shared his basic point of view, an essay he wrote in list form.  This had inspired Jonathan to want to make his own bullet point list of his basic point of view, which led us to sit around for hours in discussion, which led to making a list of our own, which led us to want to talk about our list into the microphone, which led to today’s podcast.

We hope you will be inspired to make your list too! And if you do I hope you will someday share it with us.

So now for the spoiler…. Our list!  We titled it
All the things we forgot to say, or have forgotten that we said
(an ever-expanding list)
(or, as some people call it, “gibberish.”)

1.    Everything is
2.    We tend to overestimate the knowability of the universe
3.    We’re all confused
4.    This is getting confusing
5.    We are all connected
6.
7.
8.    That was nice
9.    Nothing matters
10.    But that’s no reason to mope around
11.    But sometimes we do
12.    Tea and snacks are a good solution

 

When I was in Philly I stopped in at Briel's work for you-know-what

After listening to all the gibberish, you’ll have a chance to get down to Fame and Riches by Jake Snider.  Then maybe you’ll have some tea and snacks.

Humanly yours,
Amy



]]> http://whateveramen.com/c40-basic-nutshell-of-our-point-of-view-maybe/feed/ 0 inside out view of being human All the things we forgot to say, or have forgotten that we said (an ever-expanding list.) (Or, as some people might call it, “gibberish.”) Amy Childs | Whatever Amen no 30:43 C39: Occupy Wall Street http://whateveramen.com/c39-occupy-wall-street/ http://whateveramen.com/c39-occupy-wall-street/#comments Tue, 18 Oct 2011 04:47:23 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=1277 When my son Jonathan was about three years old, he asked me “What’s going on, and what’s the meaning of it?”  I didn’t know then and I don’t know now, but in the ‘consciousness’ thread of this podcast I continue to wonder.

That question came to mind when I heard that folks were congregating in cities all over the country in some kind of an undefined protest against … all the bad things.

In an attempt to make sense of the whole shebang, I skyped with some smart cute people* who filled me in.  Yet, as is so common at times like these, the answers simply made way in my brain for a bazillion more questions.  C’est la vie.

I guess if it were possible to identify and fix “the problem” in 30 minutes, it would’ve been done by now, so I’ll try not to feel badly that I haven’t yet been able to arrive at anything too helpful here.  Perhaps it’s time for me to get back to some breathing and see how that goes.  I’ll be sure to let you know.

At the end of today’s show we’re treated to another tune by Plume Giant – a “retro folk trio with no frontman, just guitar, violin, viola, and three voices” who are, by the way, one of the most frolicking acts you’ll ever have the pleasure to see – if you should be so lucky.

Yours and wondering,
Amy

* PS THANK YOU CUTE SMART PEOPLE!!

 



]]> http://whateveramen.com/c39-occupy-wall-street/feed/ 2 Capitalism, communism, ownership, economics, politics, and other things I’m utterly unqualified to discuss. Capitalism, communism, ownership, economics, politics, and other things I’m utterly unqualified to discuss. Amy Childs | Whatever Amen no 38:40 C38: Kara Helps Me Talk About Free Will (and other things) http://whateveramen.com/c38-kara-helps-me-talk-about-free-will-and-other-things/ http://whateveramen.com/c38-kara-helps-me-talk-about-free-will-and-other-things/#comments Fri, 29 Jul 2011 15:27:36 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=1224 Today Kara and I explore my fear of confronting the topic of free will, of scaring away (or being attacked by) kitty cats, and the monsters of bardo.  Also why I want to be a “mum” (= a monk + a nun).

If you’re interested, here’s a sample of some of the things I’ve been reading about free will by Sam Harris.

And BTW, I actually was attacked by a cat the other week, so maybe that accounts for my fear as much as anything.

amy childs

I was attacked by a kitty

healing scratches

but now it looks pretty cool

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Kirsti Gholson just released a new album and today’s song Happy and Free made me a little… verkelmpt- so thanks Kirsti for letting me share it with you guys too.

Living and learning,

Amy



]]> http://whateveramen.com/c38-kara-helps-me-talk-about-free-will-and-other-things/feed/ 1 What’s so scary about not believing in free will? What’s so scary about not believing in free will? Amy Childs | Whatever Amen no 30:48 C37: Certainty and Urgency http://whateveramen.com/c37-certainty-and-urgency/ http://whateveramen.com/c37-certainty-and-urgency/#comments Wed, 06 Jul 2011 18:44:30 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=1193 Today’s episode borders on daytime TV drama – if only Daniel and I had lamps to throw at each other!

Just kidding. Sort of.

Daniel first talks about stating things as fact, the challenges of giving the “answers” without “showing his work,” then reads his first draft of a new essay (only hours old), “The Briefest Nutshell of My Whole Point of View.”

I thought the essay was awesome for lots of reasons, one of which was that it shines a glaring light on “the gap” that I experience between Daniel’s point of view and my own.

More food for thought, in case your thoughts get as hungry for food as mine do.  Although to be honest, at the moment I’m feeling rather stuffed and ready for a nap.

xoAmy



]]> http://whateveramen.com/c37-certainty-and-urgency/feed/ 5 The final 'Consciousness' interview with Daniel Mackler for Season6. The final 'Consciousness' interview with Daniel Mackler for Season6. Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 56:24 C36: Consciousness Intermission – The Game of Life http://whateveramen.com/c36-consciousness-intermission-the-game-of-life/ http://whateveramen.com/c36-consciousness-intermission-the-game-of-life/#comments Thu, 12 May 2011 22:09:30 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=1172 In today’s little ditty of a show I expound upon the “game” analogy that popped into my head when pondering the meaning of life.

When Season Six continues, these are some of the things I want to talk about with Daniel.  In the meantime I thought I’d talk about it with you.

And thanks again to my podcrush Duane Rutter for sharing more of his music with us.



]]> http://whateveramen.com/c36-consciousness-intermission-the-game-of-life/feed/ 4 Comparing life to the game "Myst," and comparing my way of playing and teaching the game to Daniel's. Comparing life to the game "Myst," and comparing my way of playing and teaching the game to Daniel's. Amy Childs | Whatever Amen no 21:10 Consciousness35: Parents and Cults http://whateveramen.com/consciousness35-parents-and-cults/ http://whateveramen.com/consciousness35-parents-and-cults/#comments Tue, 12 Apr 2011 23:32:46 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=1141 I started off trying to find out more about the “gap” between Daniel and me, and we soon wandered off into other areas, talking about how parents can speed up their path to enlightenment, cults (what they are, how families can be cults, and how people leave them) and other tasty little morsels.

If  you’re interested to read the essay we’re talking about (“18 Ways to Speed Up The Path to Enlightenment“) well, here ya go.

In the end, I ponder a little bit about whether the difference between Daniel and me has anything to do with feeling happy. Then Daniel rounds out the show with his song Glory, Overpopulation!

Even though it’s all kinda tragic, it makes me LOL, not in small part due to the hymn’s tune.  Guess it’s one of those “if we didn’t laugh, we’d cry” situations.  For today, I’m going with the laughter.

Mine eyes have seen our species on the track to suicide
We reproduce like lemmings with denial laced with pride
We teach our children’s children how to never look inside
We’re marching to our doom!

Glory, Whatever and Amen,
Amy



]]> http://whateveramen.com/consciousness35-parents-and-cults/feed/ 9 I started off trying to find out more about the “gap” but we soon wandered off other areas, talking about how parents can speed up their path to enlightenment, cults, and other tasty morsels. I started off trying to find out more about the “gap” but we soon wandered off other areas, talking about how parents can speed up their path to enlightenment, cults, and other tasty morsels. Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 30:54 Consciousness34: Daniel on Enlightenment http://whateveramen.com/consciousness34_daniel_on_enlightenment/ http://whateveramen.com/consciousness34_daniel_on_enlightenment/#comments Wed, 06 Apr 2011 17:45:58 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=1119 According to Daniel (who got it from Alice Miller), enlightenment is a synonym for “connection with the true self,” and an enlightened person is someone who is strongly connected with true self, can see the truth and can speak it.

Today Daniel describes the four stages he sees people go through as they grow from trauma to enlightenment, which are
1. Dissociation; 2. Suffering; 3. Grieving; 4. Enlightenment. (Ta da!)

Then Daniel “puts on his imagination cap” and describes his vision of an enlightened world.

I must say, it really sounds quite lovely, and I’d like to live there.

Please?



]]> http://whateveramen.com/consciousness34_daniel_on_enlightenment/feed/ 2 According to Daniel (who got it from Alice Miller), enlightenment is a synonym for "connection with the true self." According to Daniel (who got it from Alice Miller), enlightenment is a synonym for "connection with the true self." Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 31:15 Consciousness33: Daniel on Self-Reflection and Honesty http://whateveramen.com/consciousness33-daniel-on-self-reflection-and-honesty/ http://whateveramen.com/consciousness33-daniel-on-self-reflection-and-honesty/#comments Wed, 30 Mar 2011 15:11:01 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=1011 In this, the second “Season Six” interview with Daniel Mackler, we talk about some consciousness basics: self-reflection, empathy, healthy human development, telling the truth, therapy and self-therapy, true selves and false selves.

This show (and this season) is dedicated to all the people out there who prefer real cheese over cheese whiz. May the cheese lord bless you and keep you, and make his cheesy face to shine upon you all. Amen.



]]> http://whateveramen.com/consciousness33-daniel-on-self-reflection-and-honesty/feed/ 3 This show (and this season) is dedicated to all the people out there who prefer real cheese over cheese whiz. May the cheese lord bless you and keep you, and make his cheesy face to shine upon you all. Amen. Capitalism, communism, ownership, economics, politics, and other things I’m utterly unqualified to discuss. Amy Childs | Whatever Amen no 30:13 Consciousness32: Daniel Asks Me Some Questions http://whateveramen.com/consciousness32-daniel-asks-me-some-questions/ http://whateveramen.com/consciousness32-daniel-asks-me-some-questions/#comments Wed, 23 Feb 2011 00:10:03 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=920 In this episode I answer some questions about Bryn Athyn (the small religious town where I lived from 5th grade until marriage), and Daniel Mackler gives his assessment of whether or not Bryn Athyn qualifies as a cult.

I’m not going to give away the ending here, but I will just say that I’m feeling some serious discomfort about posting this show.  I will also say that I think it’s a very important show to post, so I’m postin’ it.

And now I’m going to go lie down and feel scared for a little while.  Luckily I know that uncomfortable feelings aren’t the end of the world.

Over and out.

Amy



]]> http://whateveramen.com/consciousness32-daniel-asks-me-some-questions/feed/ 8 Is Bryn Athyn a cult? Is Bryn Athyn a cult? Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 31:17 Consciousness31: Jonathan Asks Me Some Questions http://whateveramen.com/consciousness31-jonathan-asks-me-some-questions/ http://whateveramen.com/consciousness31-jonathan-asks-me-some-questions/#comments Mon, 14 Feb 2011 03:02:27 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=856 I liked the part when Jonathan talked about his usual reaction to emptiness:

amy childs, happiness consultant

takin care a bizniss

“OH NO!… MUST… FILL… WITH… CRAP!”

We had a fun time exploring this reaction – and other things – in today’s interview.

Another regular day in the “family business” (as he calls it).

Oh and PS, if you have $15 burning a hole in your pocket, and want to buy a CD of the Germantown Friends School a capella choir (and BOY is it good!), Gray is your man. (Do it!)



]]> http://whateveramen.com/consciousness31-jonathan-asks-me-some-questions/feed/ 3 Connection, emptiness and quiet time. Connection, emptiness and quiet time. Amy Childs | Whatever Amen no 30:17 Consciousness30: Wade and Judy Ask Me Some Questions http://whateveramen.com/c30-wade-and-judy-ask-me-some-questions/ http://whateveramen.com/c30-wade-and-judy-ask-me-some-questions/#comments Sat, 05 Feb 2011 19:59:59 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=726 Kicking off Season 5 (the one in which listeners pose the questions), Wade and Judy asked me a variety of things, like:

Why did you ask people to interview you?
What did you do this morning?
Do you think you have a life purpose, or did you make one up for yourself so you’d feel happy?
What kind of professional and personal boundaries do you have?

Wade and Judy are true explorers of all sorts of realms, and it was fun to play the new “20 Questions” game with them.  (PS and they’re REALLY  CUTE!)

"Amy Childs" "Judy Barnett"

Cayo Costa, FL

"amy childs" "wade mergen"

camping cousins

Thanks Chris Kasper for today’s tune Devil’s Gold.



]]> http://whateveramen.com/c30-wade-and-judy-ask-me-some-questions/feed/ 3 ... about curiosity, life purpose, boundaries, and more. ... about curiosity, life purpose, boundaries, and more. Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 28:25 Consciousness29: Finding Found http://whateveramen.com/consciousness29-finding-found/ http://whateveramen.com/consciousness29-finding-found/#comments Tue, 25 Jan 2011 04:11:50 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=717 Today we get to hear more about Kara’s journey of integrating the precious little baby part of herself called Found.

Kara Tennis and Magia

Kara with her granddaughter Magia, a few hours old

Lucky us.

At the end of the show my adorable niece Anjuli Dawn sings to us her song called Yearn.



]]> http://whateveramen.com/consciousness29-finding-found/feed/ 1 More about Kara's journey of integrating the precious little baby part of herself called Found. More about Kara's journey of integrating the precious little baby part of herself called Found. Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 36:47 Consciousness28: Lost Parts http://whateveramen.com/consciousness28-lost-parts/ http://whateveramen.com/consciousness28-lost-parts/#comments Thu, 11 Nov 2010 20:47:55 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=665 Kara Tennis is baaaack!

As a special guest star on today’s show, Kara talks about one of her most primal inner parts she calls Found, and about her recent project that aims (among other things) to introduce Found to one hundred of Kara’s loved ones.

At the end of the episode, Ryan Tennis sings

Find your way home all alone, all alone.

The evening’s final light will show the way
with colors it won’t show you in the day.
And the softer light illuminates within
the faces and the places that you’ve been.

So find your way home, all alone, all alone.
Seeds you have sown have finally grown, finally grown.

And your dreams tonight will tell you where to go,
in which direction you will surely know.
To the deepest inner longing of your soul
where from your birth you felt that aching hole.

So find your way home, all alone, all alone.

…and then the listener is washed away in what sounds/feels to me like a waterfall of tears… which seems just about right.

Kara Tennis and Amy Childs

Kara and Amy up on the rooooof
]]> http://whateveramen.com/consciousness28-lost-parts/feed/ 1 Kara Tennis talks about those tiny baby parts of ourselves that want to hide forever... until we find them. Kara Tennis talks about those tiny baby parts of ourselves that want to hide forever... until we find them. Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 32:07 Consciousness27: Ethics As a Path to Healing http://whateveramen.com/consciousness27-ethics-as-a-path-to-healing/ http://whateveramen.com/consciousness27-ethics-as-a-path-to-healing/#comments Wed, 20 Oct 2010 15:21:35 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=645 Cory Anderson is a friend of mine, and when he said he had some things he wanted to talk about on my podcast, I was totally into the idea.  In this episode he shares some of his thoughts about and experiences with how his study of philosophy and ethics has helped him become more [...]]]> Cory Anderson is a friend of mine, and when he said he had some things he wanted to talk about on my podcast, I was totally into the idea.  In this episode he shares some of his thoughts about and experiences with how his study of philosophy and ethics has helped him become more clear and healthy in his own personal journey.

If you’re interested in discussing philosophy, ethics, or if you just like meeting new groovy people, you might want to join this Philosophy MeetUp so that you can be a part of all the gaggle-related fun that’s been going on around here.  Plus drink good beer and/or coffee.

And as promised, here again is the invitation to Ryan Tennis’s big gig this weekend, in case you haven’t put all the info on your calendar yet.

Now it seems like it’s time to go dance.

Amy



]]> http://whateveramen.com/consciousness27-ethics-as-a-path-to-healing/feed/ 1 Cory Anderson is a friend of mine, and when he said he had some things he wanted to talk about on my podcast, I was totally into the idea.  In this episode he shares some of his thoughts about and experiences with how his study of philosophy and ethics... how a young man's study of philosophy and ethics has helped him become more clear and healthy in his own personal journey Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 29:51 Consciousness26: Criminals and Retards http://whateveramen.com/consciousness26-criminals-and-retards/ http://whateveramen.com/consciousness26-criminals-and-retards/#comments Mon, 04 Oct 2010 14:47:51 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=615 Okay, okay settle DOWN everyone.  Yes I know it seems very insensitive of me to use the word “retard.”  My defense is 1) sometimes I’m kinda insensitive and 2) we are ALL fricken retards. Seriously! So let’s get over it, shall we?

Today’s show is partly a further explanation of some things I said in my interview with Daniel Mackler last week, and partly just a regular ol’ Amy-blah about consciousness.  Or whatever.

I’m also joined by (son) Jonathan who took a break from being a mathematical genius to get some annoyance off his chest.  And also, to admit that he’s not that smart and is really a dick (see?! – an epidemic!)

(Spoiler warning: It turns out he thinks traumas make life “fun!”)

Once I’ve annoyed nearly everyone, I know my work for the day is complete.  I think I hear my pillow calling me.

xoAmy

PS

Here’s a shout out to Up The Chain for sharing their upbeat hit What We Were Before with us.  I figure, if we have to get along on this little crazy planet, we might as well be dancing while we do it!



]]> http://whateveramen.com/consciousness26-criminals-and-retards/feed/ 3 In other words, all of us. In other words, all of us. Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 33:13 Consciousness25: Ethics 101 http://whateveramen.com/consciousness25-ethics-101/ http://whateveramen.com/consciousness25-ethics-101/#comments Fri, 24 Sep 2010 15:20:51 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=588 If you’re someone who wonders “What does it mean to be a good person?” then this is the discussion for you.  Personally, I don’t usually wonder that, but Greg is a hot young guy so I have to be nice to him and listen to what he says.

j/k (sort of)

If you want [...]]]> If you’re someone who wonders “What does it mean to be a good person?” then this is the discussion for you.  Personally, I don’t usually wonder that, but Greg is a hot young guy so I have to be nice to him and listen to what he says.

j/k (sort of)

If you want to find out more about what Greg is talking about in this episode, go read the little book online by Stef Molyneux – Universally Preferable Behavior - and let me know what you think of it.

Today’s music is supplied by a friend of Greg’s who is neither dead nor a robot, or at least so he claims.

Breathing in and out,

Amy



]]> http://whateveramen.com/consciousness25-ethics-101/feed/ 7 If you're someone who wonders "What does it mean to be a good person?" then this is the discussion for you.  Personally, I don't usually wonder that, but Greg is a hot young guy so I have to be nice to him and listen to what he says. - j/k (sort of) - Still wondering if there's a point to defining "right" and "wrong. Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 31:43 Consciousness24: Steven Schnarr, Life and Death http://whateveramen.com/consciousness24-steven-schnarr-life-and-death/ http://whateveramen.com/consciousness24-steven-schnarr-life-and-death/#comments Thu, 09 Sep 2010 16:36:43 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=529 “We are beautiful because we are mistaken, and we are forgiven before we begin.” – part of a poem by Steven, which he kinda thought was “bullshit” but also made him feel like he was awesome. (Personally, I side with “awesome.”)

Steven Schnarr was born into a religious family living in a religious community, but at 19 he chose a different path.  A few weeks ago his brother Jason killed himself, and again Steven’s world crumbled.  After the funeral Steve made the following speech:

“I just want to say one thing: none of us have any fucking idea what’s going on, and it really angers me that many of you pretend that you do.”

People… can I get a resounding AMEN?

Since I know some of you won’t feel that 30 minutes is enough, you can listen to my entire unedited interview with Steven here.

Steven’s request for music was “anything by Jonathan Childs” – a request I happily granted.

Peace ~ Amy



]]> http://whateveramen.com/consciousness24-steven-schnarr-life-and-death/feed/ 9 "I just want to say one thing: none of us have any fucking idea what’s going on, and it really angers me that many of you pretend that you do." - Steven Schnarr "I just want to say one thing: none of us have any fucking idea what’s going on, and it really angers me that many of you pretend that you do." - Steven Schnarr Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 31:16 Consciousness23: People Are Precious http://whateveramen.com/consciousness23-people-are-precious/ http://whateveramen.com/consciousness23-people-are-precious/#comments Thu, 26 Aug 2010 18:31:21 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=523 As promised in today’s show, here’s the newly decorated cover of my journal:

If you want to find out more about today’s featured singer-songwriter – the beloved Anders Hyatt -  you could follow him on twitter.

And even though they make me cry, I want everyone to buy a subscription to the Sun, and/or World Pulse.  Okay?

Thanks, Amy



]]> http://whateveramen.com/consciousness23-people-are-precious/feed/ 1 No but really, they are! Doncha think? No but really, they are! Doncha think? Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 29:18 Consciousness22: Feelings 102 http://whateveramen.com/consciousness22-feelings-102/ http://whateveramen.com/consciousness22-feelings-102/#comments Wed, 04 Aug 2010 19:10:06 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=500 A listener asked “Feelings don´t mean anything??? Anything? At all?”

Okay, I admit it – I don’t know if feelings mean something or not.  I just said that to git a rise outta ya.

No really I said it because it seemed like a good place to start, because the meanings we assign to feelings usually make them feel worse.

Today’s episode is about some of the next steps you might take, if wanted to stop making matters worse, if you were curious about your feelings and if you wanted to discover more about them.

Do you?  Well then get listening!

xoAmy



]]> http://whateveramen.com/consciousness22-feelings-102/feed/ 1 Do feelings mean anything at all?? Do feelings mean anything at all?? Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 26:22 Consciousness21: Feelings 101 http://whateveramen.com/happiness21-feelings-101/ http://whateveramen.com/happiness21-feelings-101/#comments Sun, 18 Jul 2010 21:12:30 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=485 Sometimes we give feelings too much credit – either we think they’re super important, or super troublesome. Typically, girls think they’re important, and boys think they’re trouble.

I agree that they’re both – but actually, neither.  Of course.  (So helpful, Amy!)

Mostly I just had to post this podcast just to let y’all know that I’m still alive.   Thanks for caring.

~Amy

Merci to Amy Regan for today’s closing tune, Carry On.



]]> http://whateveramen.com/happiness21-feelings-101/feed/ 1 Are feelings good? Bad? Both? Neither? Yup! Are feelings good? Bad? Both? Neither? Yup! Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 31:30 Consciousness20: God http://whateveramen.com/consciousness20-god/ http://whateveramen.com/consciousness20-god/#comments Fri, 25 Jun 2010 17:07:53 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=470 Again I am posting, for all the world to hear, things I’ve said of which I have no memory.  Let’s just say, season four is still in the experimental stages (as has been everything I’ve done for the past 42 years, come to think of it).  Learning about non-attachment, breathing, and (staking a stab at) not giving a flying fuck.

Amen, and yippee.

xoAmy

PS

Thanks today go out to Alex Day for The Tofu Song.  <Please insert witty comment that relates god and tofu here…. and share it with me if you come up with something good.>



]]> http://whateveramen.com/consciousness20-god/feed/ 1 What the what? What the what? Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 28:20 Consciousness12: Religion (Part Two) http://whateveramen.com/consciousness12-religion-part-two/ http://whateveramen.com/consciousness12-religion-part-two/#comments Fri, 14 May 2010 13:44:22 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=458 Holy Smokes, have I been putting myself through the ringer in regards to this podcast or what.  And how.

First things first: I want to thank all of you who did interviews, left voice mails, wrote comments, and tried like crazy to give me what I was asking for.  We got tons of great feedback from lots of interesting people.  The problem was, I discovered through this process that I need less feedback, not more.  Oops.  So, it turns out I was super wrong.

You know when they send up a big firework into the sky – you see it shooting up there and you can just tell, it’s gonna be big! and then it never goes off, you see it falling back to the ground and somewhere along the way it lets out a little sputter?  That’s what this episode is like.  A well-meaning fizzle, marking the untimely and unfantastic end of season three, as well as the end of podcasting as I used to know it.

Something new WILL be happening – oh boy here comes Season 4 (!?) – but I’m still not sure what.  So if you have the patience, stay tuned.

But back to this little sputter of a show: I spent a fun hour on Skype with Michael Newdow and wanted to share a couple highlights with y’all.  Here’s the link to his church’s website, where you can find the recipe for Freethink Drink – and let’s face it, you’re going to want that recipe, cuz it’s a smoothie made with cake.

Whatever, Whatever – - AMEN!

xoAmy



]]> http://whateveramen.com/consciousness12-religion-part-two/feed/ 1 Smoothies made with cake, Mike Newdow, and funny hats. Smoothies made with cake, Mike Newdow, and funny hats. Amy Childs | Whatever Amen no 28:16 Consciousness11: Religion (Part One) http://whateveramen.com/consciousness11-religion-part-one/ http://whateveramen.com/consciousness11-religion-part-one/#comments Tue, 09 Mar 2010 13:34:59 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=429 Talking about religion on the air is dilemma.  On the one hand, I really don’t like hurting people’s feelings.  On the other hand, I think it’s really funny to make fun of the Lord.

Oh the woes of podcastery!

So I’ve done my rambling – now it’s your turn to ramble back.  Let’s hear [...]]]> Talking about religion on the air is dilemma.  On the one hand, I really don’t like hurting people’s feelings.  On the other hand, I think it’s really funny to make fun of the Lord.

Oh the woes of podcastery!

So I’ve done my rambling – now it’s your turn to ramble back.  Let’s hear it listeners – whatcha thinkin’ about religion, huh??

Today’s inspiring rendition of Amazing Grace is played by Two Harps and I found it on music alley – a site that provides “podsafe music” for free.  Which reminds me – another thing I’d love help with is finding fitting music for the shows – so if music is your thing – help me Obe Wan!

xo ~Amy



]]> http://whateveramen.com/consciousness11-religion-part-one/feed/ 4 Talking about religion on the air is dilemma.  On the one hand, I really don't like hurting people's feelings.  On the other hand, I think it's really funny to make fun of the Lord. - Oh the woes of podcastery! - So I've done my rambling - now it's your turn to ramble back. Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 29:47 Consciousness9: Pema Chodron “When Things Fall Apart” http://whateveramen.com/consciousness9-pema-chodron-when-things-fall-apart/ http://whateveramen.com/consciousness9-pema-chodron-when-things-fall-apart/#comments Wed, 03 Feb 2010 18:17:03 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=372 Just about every word out of Pema Chodron’s mouth is music to my ears.  So today, we’re singing her song.

The book we quote (my “Bible”) (or “pillow”) in today’s show is When Things Fall Apart – Heart Advice for Difficult Times, and as you might be able to guess by the way we [...]]]> Just about every word out of Pema Chodron’s mouth is music to my ears.  So today, we’re singing her song.

The book we quote (my “Bible”) (or “pillow”) in today’s show is When Things Fall Apart – Heart Advice for Difficult Times, and as you might be able to guess by the way we have to let out a contented moan or sigh after every paragraph we read – we like it.  Maybe you will too.

xo~Amy



]]> http://whateveramen.com/consciousness9-pema-chodron-when-things-fall-apart/feed/ 1 Just about every word out of Pema Chodron's mouth is music to my ears.  So today, we're singing her song. - The book we quote (my "Bible") (or "pillow") in today's show is When Things Fall Apart - Heart Advice for Difficult Times, when things fall apart Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 27:00 Consciousness8: Peter Rhodes – “Don’t take yourself too personally” http://whateveramen.com/c8-peter-rhodes-dont-take-yourself-too-personally/ http://whateveramen.com/c8-peter-rhodes-dont-take-yourself-too-personally/#comments Tue, 26 Jan 2010 22:53:13 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=340 Are our thoughts true?

And are they really even “ours?”

And how do you get this skype thing to work anyway?

These are the penetrating kinds of questions that Peter Rhodes likes to ponder as he rummages happily through the dumpster, collecting precious items in his pockets like Dennis the Menace (except when the [...]]]> Are our thoughts true?

And are they really even “ours?”

And how do you get this skype thing to work anyway?

These are the penetrating kinds of questions that Peter Rhodes likes to ponder as he rummages happily through the dumpster, collecting precious items in his pockets like Dennis the Menace (except when the stuff is old industrial equipment, in which case he uses a rickshaw or some such contraption to carry it home).

Today we posed a “question from the audience” to get Peter going (as if he really needed any help):

I don’t like __ about myself.  How can I change it and be a better person?

As he tackles sticky concepts like “ego” and “change” with comfort and grace, Peter’s quiet charm is a welcome gift to today’s show, and we’re already looking forward to the next time.

xo ~Amy



]]> http://whateveramen.com/c8-peter-rhodes-dont-take-yourself-too-personally/feed/ 2 Are our thoughts true? - And are they really even "ours?" - And how do you get this skype thing to work anyway? - These are the penetrating kinds of questions that Peter Rhodes likes to ponder as he rummages happily through the dumpster, Peter Rhodes always has interesting things to say Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 26:41 Consciousness7: Service http://whateveramen.com/consciousness7-service/ http://whateveramen.com/consciousness7-service/#comments Wed, 20 Jan 2010 19:21:58 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=320 By accident I arranged today’s show to be about Service – not knowing that yesterday was the National Day of Service in honor of Martin Luther King.  I wish I could take a bit more credit for this but apparently I’m just not that savvy.

Anyway, we’re happy to be joined by Charity in [...]]]> By accident I arranged today’s show to be about Service – not knowing that yesterday was the National Day of Service in honor of Martin Luther King.  I wish I could take a bit more credit for this but apparently I’m just not that savvy.

Anyway, we’re happy to be joined by Charity in Action director Anders Hyatt, who is also involved with and quick to sing the praises of FeelGood and the Hunger Project – two fabulous organizations committed to the end of world hunger.

Anders talks with us about the concepts of “charity,” “helping,” “hunger” and “servant leadership,” and shares some stories from his many years devoted to making the world a better place.

Oh – And before I forget, thanks to Bobby Szafranski (Jonathan’s friends always seem to have last names we can’t spell or pronounce) for recording this week’s “Amen” tune.  Diggin’ it.

~Amy



]]> http://whateveramen.com/consciousness7-service/feed/ 2 By accident I arranged today's show to be about Service - not knowing that yesterday was the National Day of Service in honor of Martin Luther King.  I wish I could take a bit more credit for this but apparently I'm just not that savvy. - Anyway, Anders talks with us about the concepts of "charity," "helping," "hunger" and "servant leadership," and shares some stories from his many years devoted to making the world a better place. Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 24:20 Consciousness6: Life After 12 Steps http://whateveramen.com/c6-life-after-12-steps/ http://whateveramen.com/c6-life-after-12-steps/#comments Tue, 12 Jan 2010 22:03:47 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=288 I’m a little bit nervous about posting this episode, I have to admit.

I know a lot of people who love the 12 steps and feel that they owe their happiness and sanity to “the program.”  I have no desire to belittle or diminish their experience, and am glad that the 12 steps make [...]]]> I’m a little bit nervous about posting this episode, I have to admit.

I know a lot of people who love the 12 steps and feel that they owe their happiness and sanity to “the program.”  I have no desire to belittle or diminish their experience, and am glad that the 12 steps make their lives work better.

But what about people for whom the 12 steps are no longer (or never were) a saving grace?  People who don’t feel right calling on a “higher power?”  People who want to follow their own inner leading, rather than an externally prescribed set of rules or guidelines?

When our brave and articulate guest Megan Odhner discovered the 12 Steps, she jumped in and participated with enthusiastic gratitude and relief.  In today’s show she “comes out” about how the evolution of her beliefs (or lack thereof) have left her in an uneasy relationship with the community and organization that for so many years felt like home.

And for that she has my admiration, thanks, and a little kiss on the cheek.

xo



]]> http://whateveramen.com/c6-life-after-12-steps/feed/ 5 I'm a little bit nervous about posting this episode, I have to admit. - I know a lot of people who love the 12 steps and feel that they owe their happiness and sanity to "the program."  I have no desire to belittle or diminish their experience, When Megan discovered the 12 Steps, she jumped in and participated with enthusiastic gratitude and relief. In today's show she "comes out" about how her own evolution came to an uneasy relationship with the community and organization that for so many years felt like home. Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 25:41 Consciousness5: Luck http://whateveramen.com/consciousness5-luck/ http://whateveramen.com/consciousness5-luck/#comments Tue, 22 Dec 2009 21:12:54 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=270 Here’s the deal: you’re lucky if you’re happy, you’re lucky if you’re thin, you’re lucky if you’re smart, you’re lucky if you’re not unattractive, you’re lucky if you weren’t born to a parent with AIDS, you’re lucky if you live near a grocery store, you’re lucky if all your body parts work, you’re lucky [...]]]> Here’s the deal: you’re lucky if you’re happy, you’re lucky if you’re thin, you’re lucky if you’re smart, you’re lucky if you’re not unattractive, you’re lucky if you weren’t born to a parent with AIDS, you’re lucky if you live near a grocery store, you’re lucky if all your body parts work, you’re lucky if your kids have never been in a terrible accident, you’re lucky if you have a toilet, you’re lucky if your mom didn’t do drugs while you were in utero, you’re lucky if you don’t have to toil in the fields for 12 hours a day…

You’re just freakin’ LUCKY, okay?

That’s alls I got to say.

 

(Well that, and “Happy Holidays” – and if you want to hear a truly inspiring while thoroughly tortured version of Oh Holy Night, be sure to listen to the verrrry end.)

~Amy



]]> http://whateveramen.com/consciousness5-luck/feed/ 4 Here's the deal: you're lucky if you're happy, you're lucky if you're thin, you're lucky if you're smart, you're lucky if you're not unattractive, you're lucky if you weren't born to a parent with AIDS, you're lucky if you live near a grocery store, If you have the means to listen to this podcast, you're really, really lucky. Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 31:39 Consciousness4: Primal Process- It’s Not For Everyone http://whateveramen.com/consciousness4-primal-process-its-not-for-everyone/ http://whateveramen.com/consciousness4-primal-process-its-not-for-everyone/#comments Tue, 15 Dec 2009 19:41:24 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=246 As well as reading more of Kara’s book, we read some things from other people who are almost as famous: Pema Chodron, Eckhart Tolle, Martha Beck, and “Trudy” (the brilliant bag lady in Jane Wagner’s Search For Intelligent Life in the Universe).

Kara and I talk in this podcast about our strange professions of learning first-hand about the depths of the human condition, and how it sometimes looks and feels like we’re losing our minds.

Luckily Trudy knows all about this, and says it all so well:

“I don’t ever want to sound negative about going crazy.  I don’t want to overromanticize it either, but frankly, goin’ crazy was the best thing that ever happened to me.  I don’t say it’s for everybody; some people couldn’t cope.

But for me it came at a time when nothing else seemed to be working.  I got the kind of madness Socrates talked about, ‘A divine release of the soul from the yoke of custom and convention.’  I refuse to be intimidated by reality anymore.

After all, what is reality anyway? Nothin’ but a collective hunch.  My space chums think reality was once a primitive method of crowd control that got out of hand.  In my view, it’s absurdity dressed up in a three-piece business suit.

I made some studies, and realty is the leading cause of stress amongst those in touch with it.  I can take it in small doses, but as a lifestyle I found it too confining.  It was just too needful; it expected me to be there for it all the time, and with all I have to do – I had to let something go.

Now, since I put reality on the back burner, my days are jam-packed and fun-filled.

See, the human mind is kind of like… a pinata.  When it breaks open, there’s a lot of surprises inside.  Once you got the pinata perspective, you see that losing your mind can be a peak experience.”

God I love that Trudy, she’s a shining star.



]]> http://whateveramen.com/consciousness4-primal-process-its-not-for-everyone/feed/ 4 Kara and I talk in this podcast about our strange professions of learning first-hand about the depths of the human condition, and how it sometimes looks and feels like we're losing our minds. The strange profession of learning first-hand about the depths of the human condition, and how it sometimes looks and feels like we're losing our minds. Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 28:23 Consciousness3: Who Are We? http://whateveramen.com/consciousness3-who-are-we/ http://whateveramen.com/consciousness3-who-are-we/#comments Tue, 08 Dec 2009 06:25:05 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=221 Whew, it’s a good thing we don’t try to answer unanswerable questions, doncha think?

PS – I talk about John Boswell’s totally awesome “Symphony of Science” on this podcast – check it out.

PPS – Thanks to Gray Tennis for the intro, and to Ryan Tennis and Brahm Genzlinger for the outro. Such loveable and groovy dudes.



]]> http://whateveramen.com/consciousness3-who-are-we/feed/ 1 Well? Who? Well? Who? Amy Childs | Whatever Amen no 25:05 Consciousness2: The Inevitability Of Who We Are http://whateveramen.com/consciousness2-the-inevitability-of-who-we-are/ http://whateveramen.com/consciousness2-the-inevitability-of-who-we-are/#comments Tue, 01 Dec 2009 22:09:05 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=168 I’ve decided that over the next several weeks I’m going to have Kara read excerpts from her book Breathing God, a Guide to Being Whole, even though she thinks it’s boring, and even though she hates the way her voice sounds over the radio.  (She’s such an obedient wife.) (When she wants to be.)

Cause I think it’s interesting and I think her voice is damn sweet.

Here’s my favorite sentence from today’s portion:

“Life is unjust; it requires us to be a self we can in no sense be said to have chosen, and then makes us look and feel wrong for having chosen badly.”



]]> http://whateveramen.com/consciousness2-the-inevitability-of-who-we-are/feed/ 0 Kara read excerpts from her book Breathing God, a Guide to Being Whole Kara read excerpts from her book Breathing God, a Guide to Being Whole Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 26:28 Consciousness1: Breathing God- Kara’s Guide to Being Whole http://whateveramen.com/consciousness-ep-1/ http://whateveramen.com/consciousness-ep-1/#comments Tue, 24 Nov 2009 21:07:42 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=99 Kara wrote a whole book about her recovery from religious “beliefs” and her discoveries about what “is.” I figured you guys would like to hear about it.

The book hasn’t been published but she might send you an electronic copy if you ask reaaaal nice.



]]> http://whateveramen.com/consciousness-ep-1/feed/ 1 The book hasn't been published but she might send you an electronic copy if you ask reaaaal nice. The book hasn't been published but she might send you an electronic copy if you ask reaaaal nice. Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 27:26 Consciousness Promo http://whateveramen.com/consciousness-promo/ http://whateveramen.com/consciousness-promo/#comments Fri, 13 Nov 2009 22:50:50 +0000 amychilds http://whateveramen.com/?p=142 I tried to change the title to “Being Human,” but Ray had already called the Tuesday show “consciousness” and Kara felt that it was a good title, so we stuck with it.

I’m afraid people will fall asleep before they even get to the end of the word “con..sci..ou..s…ne ss….zzzz.z.zz.”  I don’t know why I think the word itself is so soporific*.

(Are you amazed that I knew that word? Well don’t be, I learned it while listening with my kids to Fudgeamania by Judy Blume.)



]]> http://whateveramen.com/consciousness-promo/feed/ 0 An inside-out view of being human. An inside-out view of being human. Whatever Amen : Consciousness no 32