Professor P with Dr.Peykar

[Mini Series] Episode 1: Mahatma Gandhi in Today's World: The Power and Influence of Conviction

Welcome to the inaugural episode of our mini-series, "What Would Mahatma Gandhi Tell Us If He Was Alive Today?" In this thought-provoking episode, we delve into the timeless wisdom of one of history's most revered figures, Mahatma Gandhi. As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, from social justice movements to global environmental crises, we ask: what insights and guidance would Gandhi offer us in these challenging times?
Join our host, as we explore Gandhi's principles of nonviolence, civil disobedience, and simple living. We'll discuss how these ideals can be applied to contemporary issues such as climate change, political polarization, and economic inequality. Through rich discussions and poignant reflections, we aim to uncover the enduring relevance of Gandhi's teachings and how they can inspire positive change in our world today.
Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of Gandhi's legacy and discover how his philosophy can help us build a more just, peaceful, and sustainable future.
 
*Mahatma Gandhi (1869–1948) was a transformative leader and activist who spearheaded India’s nonviolent struggle for independence from British rule. Born in Porbandar, India, into a middle-class family, Gandhi studied law in London and later worked in South Africa, where he first encountered and fought against racial discrimination. His experiences in South Africa helped shape his philosophy of Satyagraha, or nonviolent resistance, which he would later apply in India’s fight for freedom. Returning to India in 1915, Gandhi quickly became a key figure in the Indian National Congress, advocating for civil disobedience and non-cooperation with British authorities. His leadership during movements like the Salt March in 1930 and the Quit India Movement in 1942 showcased his commitment to peaceful protest, even in the face of violence and imprisonment. Gandhi’s teachings, rooted in Hinduism but also influenced by other religions, emphasized simplicity, self-reliance, and the moral power of nonviolence, inspiring millions across India and around the world. Despite achieving independence in 1947, Gandhi’s dream of a united India was marred by the partition that created Pakistan, leading to widespread violence between Hindus and Muslims. Gandhi’s final days were spent advocating for peace and unity, until he was assassinated in 1948 by a Hindu nationalist. His legacy as the “Father of the Nation” in India and a global symbol of peace and justice endures, influencing civil rights movements and leaders like Martin Luther King Jr. and Nelson Mandela, and his philosophy of nonviolent resistance remains a powerful tool for social change worldwide.
Fun Fact: Mahatma Gandhi was a huge fan of walking! On average, he walked about 18 kilometers (11 miles) each day for most of his life. In fact, his famous 1930 Salt March, a 24-day walk covering 240 miles to protest British salt taxes, was just one of many times he used walking as both a physical practice and a symbol of resistance. Gandhi believed that walking kept him healthy and connected with people on a personal level.

Episode 22: Cultivating a Winning Mindset (Podcast with Sport Psychologist to Professional and Olympic Athletes, Dr.Joel Fish) [INFLUENCE SERIES]

What is the role of mindset and mentality in creating a winning culture within individual, sports teams and organizations?
"Winning is giving maximum effort and continues improvement” Dr.Joel Fish
Welcome to a compelling episode where we delve into the crucial role of mindset and mentality in creating a winning culture. Join us as we sit down with Dr. Fish, an expert in sports psychology and performance coaching, to explore the influence of the winning mentality on individuals, sports teams, and organizations.
In this episode, Professor P gives practical lessons on the book, Champion's Mind by Dr.Afremow, and have Dr.Fish and one of his former students, Sara Gold, as his special guests.
Through this enlightening discussion, Dr. Fish shares his expertise on how a winning mindset can drive success, foster resilience, and inspire peak performance. We examine the psychological principles behind cultivating a winning mentality and how these principles can be applied not only in sports but also in various aspects of life and work.
From professional athletes to corporate leaders, Dr. Fish provides valuable insights and practical strategies for developing a mindset geared towards achievement and excellence. Discover how mental toughness, positive thinking, and goal-setting contribute to building a culture of success.
We also delve into real-life examples and case studies, highlighting how a winning mentality has transformed teams and organizations, leading to sustained success and high performance.
Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the power of mindset and learn how to harness it to create a winning culture in your own life, team, or organization. This episode is packed with actionable advice and inspirational stories that will motivate you to adopt a winning mentality and achieve your highest potential.
*Act of Kindness suggested by guests:
For athletes, say what you would say to others to yourself; Random act of kindness.

Episode 21: Influence of Faith and Personal Identity (Podcast with Prominent Philosopher and Professor Emeritus of Oxford University, John Cottingham) [INFLUENCE SERIES]

What role does our faith play in forming our personal identity?
“As humans, we need to come to our limitations and have a hope of redemption for something better” John Cottingham
Join us for an enlightening discussion on the profound relationship between religious belief and personal identity in this episode of the Professor P Podcast. Renowned philosopher John Cottingham takes center stage as we delve into the intricate interplay between faith and the formation of our sense of self.
In this episode, Professor P analyzes the famous Allegory of Cave by Plato and have John Cottingham and one of his former students, Sepideh Zoufonoun, as his special guests. 
In this thought-provoking conversation, Professor Cottingham shares his insights gleaned from years of scholarly exploration into the realms of philosophy of religion and moral philosophy. Drawing upon his expertise in the works of René Descartes and beyond, Cottingham unravels the complexities of how our religious convictions shape our understanding of who we are.
From the philosophical implications of religious experiences to the challenges of reconciling conflicting aspects of identity, Cottingham navigates the terrain with clarity and depth. Together, we explore questions that strike at the heart of human existence: How does our faith inform our sense of personal identity? Can religious conversion reshape the very fabric of our being? And what role does community and belonging within a religious tradition play in shaping our identities?
Prepare to embark on a journey of introspection and intellectual discovery as we unpack the profound influence of religion on personal identity. Whether you're a seasoned philosopher, a devout believer, or simply curious about the mysteries of human existence, this episode offers invaluable insights into the essence of who we are and how our faith shapes our lives.
Tune in to "Identity and Faith: Exploring the Influence of Religion on Personal Identity with John Cottingham" and embark on a journey of self-discovery unlike any other.
 
*Act of Kindness suggested by our guests: Listen wholeheartedly when others talking & Be present and smile at strangers

Episode 20: The Role of Visionary Leadership (Podcast with Renowned Author and Expert in Innovation, Scott D.Anthony) [LEADERSHIP SERIES]

How visionary leadership inspire individuals to pursue bold innovations and their sense of creativity?
“Sometimes in order to learn you need to unlearn and in order to keep moving forward, you need to go backward.” Scott D. Anthony
Join us in this enlightening episode as we sit down with Scott D. Anthony, a renowned author, speaker, and expert in innovation and disruptive change. As a Senior Partner at Infosight, a global strategy consulting firm dedicated to innovation and growth, Scott brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table.
In this episode, Professor P goes over Martin Luther King's widely knwon speech, I have a dream and delve into "The Role of Visionary Leadership in Driving Innovation." Scott shares his insights on how visionary leadership can inspire individuals to pursue bold innovations and enhance their sense of creativity. Drawing from his acclaimed books, including "The Little Black Book of Innovation" and "The Innovator's Guide to Growth," co-authored with Clayton Christensen and Mark W. Johnson, Scott discusses the essential strategies for navigating disruptive changes and fostering sustainable growth through innovation.
Tune in to discover how companies can leverage visionary leadership to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving market and inspire their teams to achieve remarkable innovations. Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or simply passionate about innovation, this episode is packed with valuable insights that you won't want to miss.

Episode 19: Influence and Art of Motivation (Podcast with 15 Guinness World Record Football Freestyler, Laura Biondo)[INFLUENCE SERIES]

What is the best way to be motivated?
"Have faith that challenges are meant to bring out the best version of yourself" Laura Biondo
Join us for an inspiring episode as we sit down with Laura Biondo, a professional football freestyler and a true pioneer in the field of women's freestyle football. Originally from Venezuela, Laura has gained international recognition for her exceptional skills and captivating performances in freestyle football competitions and events worldwide.
Laura began her journey in freestyle football in the early 2000s, quickly rising to prominence and becoming one of the most well-known female freestylers globally. Her talent and dedication have not only earned her a spot in numerous competitions around the world but have also made her a popular figure in various media outlets, helping to bring freestyle football into the limelight.
Throughout her illustrious career, Laura has been a fervent advocate for gender equality in sports, tirelessly working to inspire more women to participate in freestyle football. She has collaborated with numerous brands and organizations to promote the sport and its values, showcasing the power of sports in driving positive change.
In this episode, Laura shares her insights on the influence and art of motivation. We delve into her personal journey, the challenges she faced, and how she has used her platform to inspire and motivate others. Laura discusses the importance of mindset, the role of perseverance, and the impact of passion in achieving success.
Whether you're an aspiring athlete, a sports enthusiast, or someone looking for a dose of inspiration, this conversation with Laura Biondo will leave you motivated to pursue your dreams and make a difference in your community.
Tune in to discover the story of a trailblazer who has not only mastered the art of freestyle football but has also become a beacon of motivation and influence in the world of sports and beyond.

Episode 18: Leading Through Crisis(Podcast with Best-Selling Author and World's Leading Expert on Innovation and Growth, Rita Gunther McGrath) [LEADERSHIP SERIES]

How to use crisis as our advantage?
“The best leaders bring the best out of people”. Rita Gunther McGrath
In the first episode of Leadership Series, Professor P gives practical lessons on the book "Art of War" by Sun Tzu and has Professor McGrath and one of his former students, Amaya Ayers, as his special guests.
In this riveting episode, we delve into the heart of crisis leadership with renowned strategist and thought leader, Rita Gunther McGrath. As the world grapples with unprecedented challenges, the need for effective leadership in times of crisis has never been more critical. 
Rita Gunther McGrath, Professor at Columbia Business School and bestselling author, brings her wealth of knowledge and experience to the forefront, shedding light on what it truly means to lead through adversity. Through captivating anecdotes and deep insights, McGrath reveals the distinguishing traits of leaders who thrive amidst chaos, offering practical guidance for navigating turbulent waters with resilience and grace.
From the importance of empathetic communication to the role of innovation in crisis management, McGrath shares invaluable wisdom gleaned from years of research and real-world application. Discover how to foster a culture of resilience within your organization, make informed decisions under pressure, and emerge stronger on the other side of adversity.
Whether you're a seasoned executive, aspiring leader, or simply curious about the dynamics of crisis leadership, this episode promises to be an enlightening journey into the art and science of leading through crisis. Tune in to gain actionable insights and inspiration from one of today's foremost authorities on strategy, innovation, and leadership.
Don't miss this opportunity to learn from the best as we navigate the challenges of today's uncertain world together. Join us as we explore strategies, insights, and actionable advice from one of the foremost experts in the field.

Episode 17: Influence of Language and Power of Words(Podcast with The Distinguished Educator Award Winner and Prominent Social Psychologist, Dr. Gergen) [INFLUENCE SERIES]

How does our language effect our lives and create our world?
In the sixteenth episode of Influence Series, Professor P gives practical lessons on the book "Narrative Means to Therapeutic Ends" by Michael White and David Epston and has Professor Dr.Gergen and one of his former students, Shirley Sanguino Ramos, as his special guests.
"We need to constantly generate stories for our lives that empower, inspire and make us think outside the box". Dr. Kenneth Gergen
 
In this thought-provoking discussion, Dr. Gergen shares his insights into the profound influence of language on our perceptions, relationships, and the world at large. Drawing from decades of research and scholarship, he illuminates how the words we use not only reflect but actively create our lived experiences.
Through engaging anecdotes and compelling examples, Dr. Gergen demonstrates how language serves as the primary medium through which we construct our identities, negotiate meaning, and navigate our social interactions.
Together, we explore the transformative potential of language, discussing how shifting our linguistic patterns can lead to profound shifts in our individual and collective realities. From the narratives we tell about ourselves to the stories we share with others, every word we utter shapes the world we inhabit.
Join us for a captivating conversation that will challenge your perceptions, inspire new insights, and highlight the immense power of language in shaping our lives and co-creating our shared reality. Tune in to discover the transformative potential of linguistic awareness with Dr. Kenneth Gergen.
 

Episode 16: Transforming Lives Through Education (Podcast with Winner of 14 Teaching Excellence Award and UCLA Professor, Eric Sussman)[INFLUENCE SERIES]

How can education be a tool for a positive change?
In the fifteenth episode of Influence Series, Professor P gives practical lessons on the book "The Innovator's Mindset" by George Couros and has Professor Eric Sussman and one of his former students, Daniella Mohazab, as his special guests.
“Getting the education is very expensive but ignorance is more costly”. Professor Eric Sussman
Accompany us for an enlightening episode as we sit down with Eric Sussman, acclaimed educator, entrepreneur, and president of Amber Capital. With over a decade of experience as an adjunct professor at UCLA Anderson School of Management, Sussman has been voted Teacher of the Year an astounding 14 times by his students and received numerous prestigious teaching awards.
In this episode, we delve into the profound influence of exceptional teaching. Sussman shares his insights on the role of mentorship in education, the importance of fostering critical thinking skills, and strategies for effectively teaching complex subjects such as accounting and finance.
We explore the impact of recognition for teaching excellence and how great teachers like Sussman extend their influence beyond the classroom to shape the broader community and industry.
Moreover, Sussman provides a glimpse into the future of teaching, discussing emerging trends and innovations that are poised to transform education and society as a whole.
Whether you're an educator, student, or simply curious about the power of teaching, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration from one of academia's most respected figures. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of the transformative impact of exceptional teaching and its potential to shape the future.
 

Episode 15: Influence of Family & Upbringing (Podcast with Stanford Professor and World Leading Psychologist of Human Development, Dr.William Damon) [INFLUENCE SERIES]

How does our upbringing and family influence our identity and who we are? In the fourteenth episode of Influence Series, Professor P gives practical lessons on the book "The Path to Purpose" by Dr. William Damon and has him and one of his students, Geena Romero, as his special guests.
"Even undesirable conditions can have positive benefits when you learn to adapt to them" Dr.Damon
 
Join us in this insightful episode as we delve into the profound influence of family and upbringing on moral development. Our esteemed guest, William Damon, a renowned American psychologist and scholar, brings his wealth of expertise to the forefront of the discussion. With a distinguished career spanning developmental psychology, education, and moral development, Damon offers profound insights into how children and adolescents navigate the complexities of morality and ethics.
Through engaging dialogue and expert analysis, we explore the pivotal role that family dynamics, parental guidance, and cultural influences play in shaping individuals' moral compass. Drawing from Damon's groundbreaking research, we uncover the intricate interplay between familial relationships, societal norms, and personal values, shedding light on the pathways through which individuals internalize moral principles.
Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of the developmental processes underlying moral reasoning and ethical decision-making, as Damon shares compelling anecdotes and empirical findings from his extensive body of work. Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply intrigued by the intricacies of human development, this podcast offers invaluable insights into the profound impact of family and upbringing on shaping individuals' moral character.
Tune in as we embark on a thought-provoking journey into the heart of moral development, guided by the expertise of William Damon and enriched by the exploration of timeless questions about the nature of virtue, integrity, and the human spirit.
 
*Act of Kindness suggested by our guests: Let someone who is suffering know you care about them & Practice gratitude.

Episode 14: Innovating Daily Life (Podcast with the Most Cited Engineer and US President’s Award Winner, Dr.Langer) [INFLUENCE SERIES]

How can we use innovation in our daily lives? In the thirteenth episode of Influence Series, Professor P gives practical lessons on the book"How Innovation Works" by Matt Ridley and has Dr.Langer and one of his students, Punam Khandpur, as his special guests.
“The message is to aim high, not give up and believe in yourself” Dr.Langer
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Robert Langer, the pioneering scientist whose groundbreaking research has revolutionized healthcare. From his humble beginnings to becoming one of the most influential figures in biotechnology, Dr. Langer's journey is one of perseverance, leadership, and a relentless commitment to service.
In this episode, we delve into Dr. Langer's remarkable career, exploring his innovative approaches to drug delivery systems, tissue engineering, and nanotechnology. Discover the stories behind his most notable breakthroughs and how they have transformed the landscape of medicine, offering new hope to patients around the world.
But Dr. Langer's impact extends beyond the laboratory. As a leader in academia and industry, he has mentored countless students and entrepreneurs, shaping the next generation of innovators. Learn about his philosophy on leadership, collaboration, and the importance of giving back to the community.
From co-founding biotechnology companies to advising government agencies, Dr. Langer's service to society has been profound. Hear his insights on the role of science in addressing global challenges, from healthcare disparities to environmental sustainability.
Whether you're a seasoned scientist, aspiring entrepreneur, or simply curious about the future of healthcare, this podcast offers a rare glimpse into the mind of a visionary leader who continues to shape the world through his pioneering work and unwavering dedication to service. Join us as we explore the extraordinary life and legacy of Dr. Robert Langer.
 
*Act of Kindness suggested by out guests: Help people to believe in themselves & Listen to others attentively