The Unlearning Playground

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An everyday life podcast by Chetan Narang designed to invoke deeper thinking on topics that usually get brushed aside because of our barely-questioned-yet-firm opinions about things, applicable in all stages of our lives and especially so when we start calling ourselves mature adults. These topics, and the complete perspectives about them, are quintessential to realise the truth about Life, the Universe and everything; and also to realise the freedom that we so dearly crave in our daily lives. We will use the time spent here to unpack questions ranging from the depths of philosophy, spirituality and religion to quotes, books and stories that merely point to them but are often misinterpreted, again due to our own limited perspectives. We'll use all this jazz to get to the root of things, not just to scratch the surface, trying to never lose sight of what's true in favour of what's comfortable. If any of these words trigger a reaction in you - positive, negative alike - this show is definitely for you. If they don’t, allow me the pleasure to introduce you to some of them. Follow along if you think it will be worth your time. If in doubt, only one way to find out - dig in.

Chetan Narang


    • Mar 15, 2025 LATEST EPISODE
    • infrequent NEW EPISODES
    • 18m AVG DURATION
    • 50 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from The Unlearning Playground

    S02E07 - This Article Blew My Mind (Can You Handle It?)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 15, 2025 73:07


    The article I am reading aloud and commenting on, in this video - https://roccojarman.substack.com/p/this-is-not-a-substack-post--------------Some articles challenge your perspective—this one shatters it.Rocco Jarman's "This is not a Substack post" isn't just another opinion piece. It exposes what may be the most urgent crisis of our time: a society stuck in emotional and intellectual adolescence. Many people passively accept dysfunction, mistaking apathy or spiritual detachment for wisdom—often found in very wise spiritual traditions like Buddhism, Nonduality, or Advaita Vedanta. He argues that even such spiritual traditions are insufficient for addressing these modern issues we are collectively facing right now. Instead, he advocates for active participation and leadership from those willing to "step up as adults" in a society he views as dominated by less mature perspectives.In this video, I read aloud this game-changing article while adding my own commentary, breaking down key insights, and offering a higher perspective on why this message cannot and should not be ignored. If you think you're ready for this wake-up call, hit play.--------------Rocco Jarman is a philosopher, teacher, and visionary known for integrating ancient wisdom with modern insights. His diverse background spans over 25 years in corporate leadership, personal development, and social engineering, enriched by his personal journey through burnout and existential crisis. He has featured in various videos on this channel  @ChetanNarangOfficial  , most notably this playlist here - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGTAFgEsIneWgPFmGJK9IcJBRuWKlZ10b--------------Become a channel member to connect deeper with me:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN3I5tAhOu2gPMZ99peSjTg/joinCheck out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/If you have a question for me, ask me here - https://chetannarang.org/ask-a-human-not-an-ai/For one-on-one personal sessions for life coaching, counselling & philosophical mentorship with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Subscribe to my channel here - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlaygroundFind all my book recommendations here - https://chetannarang.org/book-recommendations/Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground podcast here -https://chetannarang.org/the-unlearning-playground-by-chetan-narang/Sign up for The Unlearning Playground newsletter here - https://chetannarang.org/newsletter/#consciousness #spiritualteacher #higherconsciousness #mindsetshift #spiritualawakening #selfimprovement #personalgrowth

    S02E06 - Kolkata Doctor Case - How Can We Do Better As A Society? (2 Key Points)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2024 21:46


    On Aug 9th, 2024, news about a heinous crime in Kolkata, West Bengal, India started to go viral across all social media platforms and news channels - a 31 year old doctor Moumita Debnath was found brutally raped and murdered at Kolkata's RG Kar Medical College and Hospital. The devastating news, enough to send chills down the spine of even the coldest person, has since then been doing the rounds all over India, with multiple protests and strikes being organised throughout the country demanding swift justice for the crime and stricter laws when it comes to women safety and protection. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) went on complete strike for 24 hours from August 17-18. With the CBI investigating the scene now and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee also involved in the enquiries, let's hope justice prevails. This extremely sad incident has raised several key questions in the minds of Indian people. Is there really a rape culture prevalent in India today? Is there a general lack of awareness amongst the general population with regards to women safety? Are we educating our population enough when it comes to topics such as sex education, consent, gender equality, etc. How can we solve this very real, very sad problem once and for all? In today's episode, I throw my hat in the ring for such deep and profound questions. Specifically this one - What, if any, is the real solution to this problem? What I touch upon today is something that I find particularly missing from most debates and discussions happening around this topic at the moment. ==== Outline ==== (00:00) - Intro To The Kolkata Horror Incident (01:10) - What This Episode Is About (02:24) - Awareness - What Are We Missing In Our Outrage? (04:40) - The Missing Key (Self Awareness) (10:03) - When Will We Be Able To Say That This Problem Is Solved? (12:39) - Politics & Corruption Around The Case (14:05) - The Actual Solution To Corrupt Politics (19:15) - Key Action Items & Concluding Thoughts In genuine hopes that this reaches and resonates with a wide audience. Follow me for more such profound content that uplifts your level of self-awareness and consciousness. Until next time. Peace out.

    S02E05 - Can WE Fix Politics & Beyond? (A Summary of The Beyond Politics Series)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 26, 2024 44:04


    Today's video is the last in The Beyond Politics Video Series on The Unlearning Playground by Chetan Narang & Rocco Jarman. Well, last in the first iteration (we hope!). This is my first standalone video in this series, and what I talk about is a summary of the entire series, key takeaways everyone can have from it and practical advices for everyone listening to actually make an impact in our society & in our shared future together. When Rocco & I brainstormed the idea of Beyond Politics, we could see that in the current situation of the global political atmosphere, in the USA or in India or in various other societies throughout the world, polarisation is increasingly becoming the norm. The ideological divide among people is deepening and this growing rift is not only impacting political discourse but also hindering our ability to address pressing societal issues effectively - issues for which even if we already have the necessary tools already, our political framings block us from cooperating and actually solving them. -------------- The entire series is available via this playlist - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGTAFgEsIneXcoBEzsYfc0wNB5H0Rssot You may also watch short clips from the series here in this playlist - https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGTAFgEsIneWwqiZ_y8JgNUshNx0Jh3q8 -------------- The key insights I share today (and what we discuss in the entire Beyond Politics Series) are applicable not just to the political climate in India or the United States of America, but is fundamental to the way we humans work and coordinate (or at least try to coordinate!) ==== Outline ==== (00:00) - Coming-Up Next (00:33) - A brief summary of Beyond Politics by Chetan Narang & Rocco Jarman (05:06) - A Personal Story (Polarisation in Our Everyday Life) (09:24) - Our Fears are the same (Recent Trends in Modern Politics) (11:40) - IF you want to be a part of the solution (17:09) - The Cone Example and Politics Today (20:37) - Key Point 1 - The Two Golden Rules (26:07) - Key Point 2 - Two Questions to Always Consider (27:50) - Key Point 3 - The Tim Urban Levels of Thinking Paradigm (29:37) - Key Point 4 - The Human Consciousness Pyramid (34:46) - Understanding the Current Human Condition & What lies AHEAD (37:47) - How to use Agile to Solve Politics (42:44) - Concluding Thoughts & Invitations -------------- The polarisation we see all around us is indeed a sad reality of modern life, and it's about time someone acts like the adult in the room and helps us get out of the mess we have created for ourselves - as a society and also as individuals. In sincere hopes that this lands and finds you in a state of open mind and open heart. Until next time. Peace out. #politics #politicstoday #socialchange #betterfuture #beyondpolitics #utopia #awakening #indianpolitics #uspolitics -------------- Become a channel member to connect deeper with me: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN3I5tAhOu2gPMZ99peSjTg/join Check out all of my work on my website - https://chetannarang.org/ If you have a question for me, ask me here - https://chetannarang.org/ask-a-human-not-an-ai/ For one-on-one personal sessions for life coaching, counselling & philosophical mentorship with me - https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/ Subscribe to my channel here - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlayground Find all my book recommendations here - https://chetannarang.org/book-recommendations/ Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/ Checkout The Unlearning Playground podcast here - https://chetannarang.org/the-unlearning-playground-by-chetan-narang/ Sign up for The Unlearning Playground newsletter here - https://chetannarang.org/newsletter/

    S02E04 - Do We Really Have Free Will? Exploring the Concept and What's Often Overlooked

    Play Episode Listen Later May 24, 2024 34:57


    The question of whether we have free will is a longstanding and complex debate in philosophy, neuroscience, and psychology. The internet is full of amazingly detailed and intriguing content talking about this concept in much detail. In today's episode, I wanted to talk about two extremely crucial concepts that I think are often overlooked in most debates and discussions around this subject. Join me, Chetan Narang, as I dive deep into the concept of free will. I am sure that by the end of this episode of The Unlearning Playground Podcast, you would be well equipped to understand what is mostly missing in the various perspectives of this question from philosophy, neuroscience, psychology & theology. You will also be able to digest the classic debates between determinism, libertarian free will & compatibilism better. Whether you have or haven't listened to big names like Sam Harris, Andrew Huberman, Robert Sapolsky or Jordan Peterson, my hope is that you would find this episode to be the missing piece in the jigsaw puzzle of the ever evasive question - Is Free Will an illusion? As I uncover what is often missing in most debates and discussions about free will - whether among philosophers, scientists, or laypeople, you would see that we actually need to go beyond the surface arguments to explore the real nuance of this question. Let's meet in the playground then. Until next time. Peace out. #freewill #philosophy #neuroscience #psychology #theology #determinism #spiritualteacher #spiritualawakening -------------- All links that I touched upon in this episode: Sam Harris's book on Free Will - https://amzn.to/3KaiCtF My episode on The Purpose of Life - https://chetannarang.org/the-purpose-of-life/ -------------- ==== Outline ==== (00:00) - Intro to today's episode (00:58) - Intro to the concept of Free Will (02:20) - My PERSONAL experience with the question (04:01) - How this question is USUALLY addressed on the Internet (08:37) - What is MISSING from almost ALL videos on Free Will (20:24) - Self Awareness - The MISSING variable in the Free Will equation (30:16) - Summary & Concluding Thoughts --------------

    S02E03 - Grief, Healing and Moving On (Life after Death)

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2024 36:58


    Dealing with the loss of a loved one is a profound and personal journey. In today's heartfelt episode, the third one of season 2 of The Unlearning Playground Podcast by Chetan Narang, we discuss practical and emotional tips to help you process grief and navigate the complex emotions that follow. I feel that conversations around the topic of death are few & far compared to the emotional turmoil this event can cause in our lives, and hence this topic appears to me to be one of those non-negotiable ones that I should pick in this new series of podcast episodes. This is also an extremely personal episode for me, because I share some updates to my life that actually pushed me to sit in front of my mic with this subject, no matter how emotionally challenging. From understanding the stages of grief to finding ways to honor and remember your loved one, this guide is here to support you at your own pace. Whether you're seeking comfort, guidance, or simply a sense of connection, join me as I explore the path toward healing, acceptance and moving on. Remember, it's okay to grieve and it's okay to seek help. Let's take this step together. In sincere hopes that this lands. Until next time. Peace out. ==== Outline ==== (00:00) - Coming up next (00:35) - How we usually think about Death - A Short Story (02:34) - Why talk about this at all? (06:39) - Mahabharata & Death (09:36) - A personal realisation around the death of a loved one (13:07) - Death & Shame (17:10) - Death & Fear (20:33) - The Grieving Process - How to heal from grief & loss (27:33) - Life after Death (The Purpose of Death) (35:34) - Concluding thoughts #death #grief #movingon #emotionalwellbeing #mentalhealth -------------- Check out all of my work on my website - https://chetannarang.org/ If you have a question for me, ask me here - https://chetannarang.org/ask-a-human-not-an-ai/ For one-on-one personal sessions for life coaching, counselling & philosophical mentorship with me - https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/ Subscribe to my channel here - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlayground Find all my book recommendations here - https://chetannarang.org/book-recommendations/ Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here - https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/ Checkout The Unlearning Playground podcast here - https://chetannarang.org/the-unlearning-playground-by-chetan-narang/ Sign up for The Unlearning Playground newsletter here - https://chetannarang.org/newsletter/ -------------- Credits for the beautiful soundtracks: Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/augustine/another-life License code: A4IITIDDH56OQH7H

    S02E02 - How to live a better life by being more childlike?

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 16, 2023 50:54


    A thought that every adult encounters ever so often is centred around the idea of how life was better when they were a kid, when they were more childlike. I think there are a lot of life lessons in this train of thought, and that is the epicentre of today's episode of The Unlearning Playground.Even The Bible reportedly says something to the tune of "No one enters the kingdom of God until he is childlike." Please note that the call is to be childlike, not childish. There is a world of difference between the two words, and I explore that too in this episode.I think that the various tips I give out here are central to living a good life as an adult, central to living your life to the fullest as a grown-up. The playfulness, spontaneity and flexibility of childhood is something that has captured the imagination of so many philosophers already - Alan Watts, Osho, Sadhguru, Jordan Peterson, Sandeep Maheshwari to name a few. So, here I am throwing my hat in the ring too on the same.I hope this episode lands, and leaves you with a better life.Until next time.Peace out.==== Outline ====(00:00) - Intro(02:12) - Was life better as a kid?(10:14) - Being more spontaneous and expressive(22:36) - Being more playful(36:19) - Being more open and flexible(48:51) - Recap and concluding thoughts#lifelessons #selfimprovementpodcast #personalgrowth --------------Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/If you have a question for me, ask me here - https://chetannarang.org/ask-a-human-not-an-ai/For one-on-one personal sessions for life coaching, counselling & philosophical mentorship with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Subscribe to my channel here - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlaygroundFind all my book recommendations here - https://chetannarang.org/book-recommendations/Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground podcast here -https://chetannarang.org/the-unlearning-playground-by-chetan-narang/Sign up for The Unlearning Playground newsletter here - https://chetannarang.org/newsletter/--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/augustine/another-life License code: A4IITIDDH56OQH7H

    S02E01 - What is the purpose of Life, and how to find yours?

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 22, 2023 63:58


    One of the most fundamental questions every person asks at some point in their lives is - “What is the purpose of life?”. Not surprisingly at all, this is also one question that most of us learn to suppress very early on in our lives.In this episode, the first of season two of the unlearning playground podcast, I dive into this question head on. I think that the modalities discussed here - of being & becoming, of life & Life, of priorities, of sacrifices and of our soul's calling - are of utmost importance in truly grasping this ever-evasive question.It is ok to feel lost sometimes, it happens to everyone.It is ok to feel stuck sometimes, it happens to everyone.It is ok to not know what to do next sometimes, it happens to everyone.However, I have come to realise that we should not be ok with not doing anything about such feelings. Most of what needs to be done has more to do with the stance we approach them with.As you will find it in this episode, this is not a direct invitation to change WHAT you do, in the sense of quitting your job and following your “passion”. Although there is something to be said about that being absolutely necessary at times.Rather, this is an invitation firstly to change HOW you are going about your life - how you're looking at your life, how you view your job, your relationships, your career, your purpose, your questions, your conversations and all the rest of Life.This is an absolutely vital episode in the grand scope of all of my work at the unlearning playground I would say.==== Outline ====(00:00) - Introduction(02:50) - Why talk about this at all? The crisis of meaning today's age(09:52) - The two modalities - being & becoming(10:51) - Being - life vs Life (23:59) - Becoming(31:28) - How to find your purpose?(48:38) - Priorities(56:18) - Sacrifices & your soul's calling(1:01:19) - Concluding thoughts--------------Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for life coaching, counselling & philosophical mentorship with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Subscribe to my channel here - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlaygroundFind all my book recommendations here - https://chetannarang.org/book-recommendations/Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground podcast here -https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGTAFgEsIneXtQ3H-HJqiGgJQX6HaRsj1https://chetannarang.org/the-unlearning-playground-by-chetan-narang/--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/augustine/another-life License code: A4IITIDDH56OQH7H"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/#purposeoflife #lifelessons #selfimprovement #truespirituality

    0042 - The end of season 1, and start of something better

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 1, 2023 5:11


    Endings are hard indeed. But if we keep ourselves stuck in the same old same old, we hold ourselves back to what might be.And therefore, like a snake must shed its old skin someday to allow a new layer to flourish, I end season 1 of The Unlearning Playground podcast today with this episode.I talk about 2 major updates about the content you can expect from The Unlearning Playground in the months to come, with the first major announcement being the launch of my new series of content - Ask a human, not an AI.Check out the "Ask a human, not an AI" homepage here - https://chetannarang.org/ask-a-human-not-an-ai/Also, I'm still collecting feedbacks for all my content thus far, so share your opinions with me here - https://chetannarang.org/feedback/P.S. You can be anonymous with the form too.That's about it.Super psyched about the new season.Until next time.Peace out.--------------Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for life coaching, counselling & philosophical mentorship with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Subscribe to my channel here - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlaygroundConnect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground podcast here -https://chetannarang.org/the-unlearning-playground-by-chetan-narang/

    0041 - How to be better in a position of power (5 book recommendations)

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2023 9:37 Transcription Available


    Here are the 5 books I recommend in this episode:Book 1 (https://amzn.to/45mPqs3)Book 2 (https://amzn.to/455eRP8)Book 3 (https://amzn.to/45lWk0E)Book 4 (https://amzn.to/47qjbtH)Book 5 (https://amzn.to/3YtGuPj)--------------As we grow up, we take up positions of power or at least aspire to do so at some point. That could mean becoming a parent, taking up a managerial position in your workplace, or any other relationship where you can have a substantial impact on the life of another person.In all such relationships, I think there is something that is usually missing in the advices, suggestions and trainings all of us seek out and therefore, receive.In this short episode, I discuss that one missing advice, and try to make a case for it.I think it's fundamentally applicable to all our relationships, especially the kind I talked about above.Check it out, and share with your friends & family to help it reach out to more people. It'll be worth their time too, I promise. Until next time.Peace out.--------------Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for life coaching, counselling & philosophical mentorship with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Subscribe to my channel here - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlaygroundConnect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground podcast here -https://chetannarang.org/the-unlearning-playground-by-chetan-narang/

    0040 - Life lessons from the Jason Bourne movies

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 11, 2023 5:35 Transcription Available


    There are some movies that sometimes, out of the blue, end up teaching you life lessons that stay with you forever. I understand it to be very unlikely that an action thriller movie franchise would make the cut to such a list, but it is what it is I guess.What is Jason Bourne about? If you had asked me this question some years ago, my answer would have been very different than what I can say about it now.Having recently revisited these brilliant movies, I can safely say that the perspective with which I watched Jason Bourne this time around really helped me catch the drift of the storyline much better than before. And one powerful life lesson came striking out at me, which is what this short episode is all about.I would really recommend everyone to watch all the movies again, and this time with the perspective I talk about in this episode.So without further ado, let's get into it.Let's see what Jason Bourne has to teach us.And was he any good at it.Until next time.Peace out.--------------Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for life coaching, counselling & philosophical mentorship with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Subscribe to my channel here - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlaygroundConnect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground podcast here -https://chetannarang.org/the-unlearning-playground-by-chetan-narang/--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtrack:"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/Credits for the Bourne movie clips:The Movieclips YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/@MOVIECLIPS)Credits for the thumbnail image:nicolas genin, CC BY-SA 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

    0039 - What is equality & where is it going wrong in 2023 (Indian context included)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 28, 2023 19:20 Transcription Available


    Equality is a topic that is central to any relationship, family, community and society. And that makes it an extremely important subject to discuss, especially in today's world where like anything else it is subject to a host of interpretations and biases and opinions.In this video, I delve into the topic of equality in some detail.I talk about what is equality, how we are measuring it, how we ought to think about it and (I can't stress enough how important this is) where we are going wrong with it as of 2023.I think this is one topic that must be properly understood by everyone, especially in 2023. And what's more, if misunderstood, it can lead to the divisions we find so prevalent in our society even today.Let's see if I can do justice to the claims above.Only one way to find out. Dig right in.Until next time.Peace out. ==== Outline ====(00:00) - Intro(00:51) - What is equality?(01:26) - How do you measure equality?(02:10) - Equality of opportunity(03:49) - Equality of outcome(04:52) - The gender pay gap(08:55) - Thomas Sowell, equity & equality(12:11) - Equality in absolutely stupid things(14:19) - Expecting equality where there can be none(16:22) - Equality in the Indian context(17:47) - Closing, with a Thomas Sowell quote--------------Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for life coaching, counselling & philosophical mentorship with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Subscribe to my channel here - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlaygroundConnect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground podcast here -https://chetannarang.org/the-unlearning-playground-by-chetan-narang/--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0038 - The courage to be disliked book summary [4 powerful life lessons]

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2023 14:14 Transcription Available


    The book I'm covering in this video - The courage to be dislikedThe courage to be disliked is a life changing book, if there ever was one.And I do not say that lightly. As someone who has spent a good few years reading, devouring & digesting multiple non fiction books, of the self help kind, of the philosophy kind, of the psychology kind etc, I have a certain level of discernment now when it comes to recommending books.This book is, in fact, the most recent addition to my list of favourite books.In this episode of the unlearning playground podcast, I wanted to get into a brief summary of what the courage to be disliked is all about and why I recommend it (and in fact also gift it) to almost everyone looking for some must read books. I also share 4 key powerful unlearnings (read life lessons) I think everyone should gather from this book, so even if I am not able to encourage you enough to pick this book for yourself, at least spend 14 minutes with me on this video so that you get a glimpse of the nectar it has to offer.If I'm able to encourage you enough, please check out the book on Amazon from here.==== Outline ====(00:00) - Why this book(00:32) - Intro to the courage to be disliked(02:04) - How this book is different than most others(03:09) - What I love the most about this book(03:50) - A summary of the book summary(04:31) - Life lesson 1 - Trauma does not exist(06:28) - Life lesson 2 - The separation of tasks(08:00) - Life lesson 3 - Life lies(09:54) - Life lesson 4 - A bigger perspective of life(10:55) - What I don't like about this book(13:02) - An invitation, in closingWell, alright then.Let's catch up in the playground.Until next time.Peace out.--------------Here's the video for 3 perspectives on Life that I talked about in this episode - https://youtu.be/38C1v-WbydkCheck out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for life coaching, counselling & philosophical mentorship with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Subscribe to my channel here - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlaygroundConnect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground podcast here -https://chetannarang.org/the-unlearning-playground-by-chetan-narang/

    0037 - The apple vision pro (3 thoughts - the good, the bad & the ugly)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 13, 2023 11:59 Transcription Available


    Just this last week, Apple released a video introducing The Apple Vision Pro.It is a first-generation AR/VR headset, and Apple claims that with this device, the era of spatial computing is here. They claim this to be a life-changing technology.In this video of The Unlearning Playground podcast, I decided to record my first impressions about this new device, which is a part of a booming field in technology now - Augmented reality and Virtual reality. My thoughts are divided into three broad categories - the good, the bad & the ugly.I think what you are about to consume in this video would serve to be a contrarian viewpoint, when compared to most other videos out there on the internet about the apple vision pro.Also, consider it to be a genuine request from my side, I want you to stay with me till the ugly part of this episode. That is where the real nectar lies. Trust me.==== Outline ====(00:00) - The apple vision pro launch(01:03) - The good stuff(02:11) - The bad stuff(02:24) - The apple vision pro price considerations(03:32) - The ugly stuff(05:41) - Photos, videos, memories & technology(08:20) - Utility & corporate jargons(11:03) - An invitation, in closing--------------Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for life coaching, counselling & philosophical mentorship with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Subscribe to my channel here - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlaygroundConnect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground podcast here -https://chetannarang.org/the-unlearning-playground-by-chetan-narang/--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/pecan-pie/time-for-actionLicense code: LMO02LKZNWJ1OXOT"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0036 - How to sleep better, learn from a sleep expert | Why we sleep by Matt Walker book review (9 key tips)

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2023 16:02 Transcription Available


    Why we sleep is an internationally bestselling book by Matthew Walker, an English scientist and professor of neuroscience and psychology at the University of California, Berkeley. He is someone who's widely regarded as one of the foremost sleep experts in the world.Why we sleep, by Matthew Walker on Amazon - https://amzn.to/45Whun6In this episode, I talk about everything I learnt, and unlearnt, via this brilliant book. I can safely say that it is one of the best non fiction book recommendations of 2023 from me.The amount of information he covers in this book is simply mind blowing. In close to 400 pages, he condenses close to twenty years of cutting-edge research on sleep and what every person should understand about it.He talks about HOW MUCH one should sleep.He talks about HOW one should sleep.And he talks about WHEN one should sleep.And of course, he touches upon various different aspects of these three massive areas - the role that caffeine plays in our sleep, the adverse effects of alcohol & smoking on a good night's sleep, the positive effects of watching sunlight directly at sunrise & sunset, etc.And what's more - he also gives a bunch of real-life tips that you can directly apply to your everyday life as we speak. For instance, he talks in great detail about how to fix your sleep cycle in case it is messed up.I think overall this is a brilliant book, and if you are one of those people who think they'll never really get to reading it, you should watch this summary video of mine where I cover 9 key tips that I learnt, or unlearnt, via it.Let's catch up in the playground.Until next time.Peace out.Check out the book on Amazon here - https://amzn.to/45Whun6==== Outline ====(00:00) - Intro(00:59) - 3 main learnings from this book(01:34) - It matters HOW MUCH you sleep. More than 5 hours daily?(03:18) - How much should you sleep?(04:18) - REM & Non-REM sleep - which is more important?(05:52) - It matters HOW we sleep(06:07) - Sleep only on weekends bio hack(07:20) - Alcohol and sleep. Does alcohol help in sleeping better?(08:29) - Exercise and sleep(08:53) - It matters WHEN we sleep(09:03) - Working late at night and cancer!(10:13) - Circadian rhytm explained(11:17) - Why your sleep cycle is messed up?(12:08) - How to fix your sleep cycle?(13:25) - Caffeine and sleep. How coffee disrupts sleep?(15:30) - Recap--------------Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for life coaching, counselling & philosophical mentorship with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Subscribe to my channel here - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlaygroundConnect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground podcast here -https://chetannarang.org/the-unlearning-playground-by-chetan-narang/--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/augustine/another-life License code: A4IITIDDH56OQH7H

    0035 - Blame game, conflict management and the fundamental attribution error

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2023 4:41 Transcription Available


    Most people wish to become better at handling and resolving conflicts, but out of the dozen or so things that get in the way, one of the main blockers is the fundamental attribution error.It sounds like a bit of a mouthful, but it is actually one of the easiest cognitive biases to understand. Of course the precursor being that you actually want to understand better rather than seek validation for what you think is already right.In this episode of The Unlearning Playground Podcast, I delve into this topic in an easy-to-understand and simple manner. I talk about what this cognitive bias really is, how to spot it in your everyday life and I also suggest 3 ways to help overcome it in situations where we most need to.I think, once you get to seeing things from the perspective I try to build in this video, you would be well on your way to managing conflicts in a much more responsible and mature manner. This should enable you to be better at people skills which, as any adult in the room would tell you, is eventually what most of life is about.I'll see you in the playground.Hope you bring an open mind and an honest heart.Until next time.Peace out. Follow my youtube channel here - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlaygroundThe suggested episode at the end of this episode (The one about the regression to the mean & how it is important to improve your people skills.) - https://chetannarang.org/improving-people-skills-using-regression-to-mean/Here is a brief outline of the episode:=== Outline ===(00:00) - Intro(00:22) - The fundamental attribution error(01:17) - An everyday life example(01:47) - The importance of understanding this(02:19) - Advice 1(02:55) - Advice 2(03:31) - Advice 3(04:02) - Recap--------------Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for life coaching, counselling & philosophical mentorship with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Subscribe to my channel here - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlaygroundConnect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground podcast here -https://chetannarang.org/the-unlearning-playground-by-chetan-narang/--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/augustine/another-life License code: A4IITIDDH56OQH7H

    0034 - 3 essential learnings the education system misses out

    Play Episode Listen Later May 7, 2023 6:51 Transcription Available


    What is wrong with our education system? This is one topic that every adult has strong opinions on.And I think most of those opinions come from a place of genuine concern and good intention.Growing up, the issues we faced - we do not want our children to bear the same burden, or rather, to be more aware of the burdens they are about to bear.To improve the education system, while an endless process, is still one of the most critical pieces to solve for us as a community. In this episode of The Unlearning Playground Podcast, I am talking about 3 things that every education system should teach to everyone.The points I cover here are not limited to any age. I definitely think all adults should know, understand and internalise these concepts, but I also think that everyone in today's age should be aware of what I talk about here.Let me put it this way - everyone, whether they are gen z, millennials, gen x or boomers, all of them would benefit in one way or the other by internalising the 3 points that I cover here.Additionally, I would love to hear from you on this topic. Hit me up in the comments section on YouTube and let me know what all do you think the education system, in your country or in general, must teach to everyone. Or should at least try to.I'll see you in the playground.Until next time.Peace out. === Outline ===(00:00) - Intro(00:20) - Life lessons #1(02:40) - Life lessons #2(04:02) - An invitation(04:25) - Life lessons #3(06:12) - Closing--------------Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for life coaching, counselling & philosophical mentorship with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Subscribe to my YouTube channel here - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlaygroundConnect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground podcast here -https://chetannarang.org/the-unlearning-playground-by-chetan-narang/--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/augustine/another-life License code: A4IITIDDH56OQH7H

    0033 - 24-year-old Bengaluru engineer earning 58 lakhs shares viral note on unhappiness (3-step guide)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 28, 2023 18:22 Transcription Available


    A few days back, a 24-year-old software engineer from Bengaluru took to Grapevine and penned down a note on how despite earning a hefty salary of 58 lakhs per annum, he is unhappy with his life.The note has since then gone viral, having amassed a bunch of shares and comments from people talking about it from various different perspectives.As someone who has been working in the Bengaluru software engineering industry for close to 10 years now, and as someone who went through and outgrew a similar phase in his own life, I think I have an understanding about this problem that most people tend to lack.So, in this video, I aim to provide a wholly different perspective on the problem this young man is facing (quite possibly along with a lot many others who simply haven't asked the internet for a solution yet)=== Outline ===(00:00) - The original viral post(01:41) - How not to think about this(02:55) - What this video is about(04:14) - Don't #1(04:48) - Don't #2(05:48) - Don't #3(07:00) - Don't #4(08:05) - Do #1(08:52) - Do #2(10:27) - Middleground #1(11:31) - Middleground #2(12:26) - Our obsession with happiness(14:07) - Self love, self acceptance and happiness(17:28) - An invitationI honestly hope this video reaches out to the guy who wrote that note. So, if you can play your part in that, please share this with your community. You never know the impact a little click of a button can have on others.I'll see you in the playground.Until next time.Peace out.--------------Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for life coaching, counselling & philosophical mentorship with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Subscribe to my youtube channel here - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlaygroundConnect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground podcast here -https://chetannarang.org/the-unlearning-playground-by-chetan-narang/--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtrack:"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0032 - God, truth, understanding & utility - In collab with The Most Serious Podcast

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 23, 2023 65:53


    Ripudaman Bhardwaj from "The most serious podcast" is one guy who knows how to hold an honest and engaging conversation. I was recently a guest on his show, and the conversation was so deep and stimulating that I asked him to share it on my network too.We talked about the truth about God, different perspectives of looking at Life, what it means to differentiate between utility & truth, and so much more.I genuinely feel this is one of the best online conversations I have been a part of so far.Do check it out and let me know your honest feedback as always.Until next time.Peace out.--------------Here's the "Understanding God" playlist I was talking about in this episode - https://chetannarang.org/understanding-god-true-religion-true-spirituality/Check out The Most Serious Podcast here - https://www.youtube.com/@TheMostSeriousPodcastCheck out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for life coaching & philosophical mentorship with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground podcast here -https://chetannarang.org/the-unlearning-playground-by-chetan-narang/--------------

    0031 - Answering the most common question that comes up in therapy, counselling & life coaching

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 13, 2023 9:56


    In this episode of The Unlearning Playground Podcast, I talk about the most common theme surrounding the questions that usually get asked in therapy, counselling and life coaching sessions.Now I understand that there are no one-size-fits-all remedies, but what I talk about here is a powerful realisation that might land if you're ready to receive it.Big claims? I know.Do I do them any justice?Only one way to find out. Dig right in.I'll see you in the playground.Until next time.Peace out.=== Outline ===(00:00)- Intro(01:46) - The question(s)(03:41) - The answer(05:08) - The core Understanding(07:50) - What's there to gain? Or lose?--------------Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for life coaching & philosophical mentorship with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground podcast here -https://chetannarang.org/the-unlearning-playground-by-chetan-narang/--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/augustine/another-life License code: A4IITIDDH56OQH7H

    0030 - Self awareness & spirituality, and their relationship to self improvement in the modern world

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2023 17:49


    In this episode of The Unlearning Playground podcast, we sit together for a good & powerful meditation on the topic of spirituality. I talk about what I find to be the heart of spirituality, what a modern human must unlearn about spirituality, how spirituality actually enhances a person's self awareness & what is the relation all of this holds to that topic which attracts almost of us (at least the sane ones) - self improvement.This is a slightly more poetic episode than the usual episodes I have been recording and sharing lately, and as we find out in the video - that has got more to do with the colour of the t-shirt I'm wearing in it!Let's dig right in.I'll see you in the playground.Until next time.Peace out.=== Outline ===(00:00) - My t-shirt, the wife & the topic for today's episode(02:21) - Spirituality & voodoo rituals(05:14) - What really is spirituality?(07:31) - Spirituality & self improvement in the modern world(11:51) - Why this is especially relevant now(14:46) - The essence & parting thoughts(16:17) - A poem titled ‘To be spiritual…'--------------Here's the playlist I was talking about in the episode (on getting started on your spiritual journey) - https://chetannarang.org/understanding-god-true-religion-true-spirituality/For one-on-one personal sessions for life coaching & philosophical mentorship with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground podcast here -https://chetannarang.org/the-unlearning-playground-by-chetan-narang/--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/augustine/another-life License code: A4IITIDDH56OQH7H

    0029 - Albus Dumbledore, Sachin Tendulkar & Free will

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 9, 2023 4:10


    Do we humans have free will?Can we really choose to act?Do our choices matter eventually?Is there an easy-to-understand answer to these questions?I delve into these questions in this short and meaningful episode via a quote that, for me, defines the legacy of Albus Dumbledore in the Harry Potter movies.I also take the example of an interview that Harsha Bhogle did on Sachin Tendulkar a while back.I think this is a very moving intersection of two seemingly dissimilar topics to drive home a point that I find to be very important in our day and age.Do I do all of this any justice?Only one way to find out.I'll see you in the playground.Until next time.Peace out.=== Outline ===(00:00) - Dumbledore & the magical quote(00:35) - Where can we be better than animals?(02:03) - Harsha Bhogle on Sachin Tendulkar(03:00) - Free will--------------Check out my episode on love & kindness - https://chetannarang.org/what-does-love-look-like-relationships-kindness/Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for life coaching & philosophical mentorship with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground podcast here -https://chetannarang.org/the-unlearning-playground-by-chetan-narang/

    0028 - The halo effect & 3 ways to overcome it

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 23, 2023 9:21


    The halo effect, without a shadow of doubt, is one of the most important cognitive biases every adult in the room must be aware of.It is extremely important because it directly influences the way you think about people and in doing so, has a direct impact on the way you navigate your interpersonal relationships - both personal as well as professional.Join me in this episode as I walk through how this bias affects our everyday thinking and also discuss 3 key ways to avoid falling prey to it.Let's have some fun in the playground.Until next time.Peace out.=== Outline ===(00:00) - Intro(00:30) - What is the halo effect?(02:05) - Stories(03:15) - Advice #1(04:34) - Advice #2(05:36) - Advice #3(06:22) - Why all of this is especially relevant today--------------Check out my playlist for all the episodes on cognitive biases and logical fallacies - https://chetannarang.org/understanding-cognitive-biases/Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for philosophical mentorship, counselling & life coaching with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground YouTube channel here -https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlayground--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/augustine/another-lifeLicense code: A4IITIDDH56OQH7H"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0027 - 1 powerful tip to improve your people skills | Regression to the mean

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 9, 2023 18:39


    Has it ever happened with you that people tend to quite often disappoint you right after you've just appreciated them?Either it has, or you don't appreciate the people in your life often enough. :)In this episode of The Unlearning Playground Podcast, I talk about one powerful tip on better understanding this dynamic of dealing with people using a statistical fact that goes by the name Regression to the mean.Stay with me till the end of this episode to actually improve upon your people skills multifold.Do I deliver on the promises?Only one way to find out.Dig right in.=== Outline ===(00:00) - Intro(01:33) - Rewards vs punishments - What works better?(04:44) - The core concept - Regression to the mean(06:16) - Luck and exams(09:20) - The sports illustrated jinx(12:12) - Why this is hard to understand(14:53) - Key takeaways from this episodeUntil next time.Peace out.--------------Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for philosophical mentorship, counselling & life coaching with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground YouTube channel here -https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlayground--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/augustine/another-lifeLicense code: A4IITIDDH56OQH7H"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0026 - 2 types of prayers | Change the way you think about prayers

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 26, 2023 7:30


    In some way, shape or form, we are surrounded by prayers.Join me in this episode as I talk about the two primary types of prayers that we humans perform in our everyday lives, and let's discuss whether there is enough motivation for switching from one kind to the other.This can be a touchy subject for some people, so please take it with a pinch of salt.And like I always say, if something doesn't resonate with you, that's when you need honesty the most.(00:00) - Intro(00:20) - What this episode is not about.(01:21) - The first kind of prayer(04:28) - The second kind of prayer(05:14) - The core messageLet's meet in the playground.Until next time.Peace out.--------------For the playlist of The Unlearning Playground episodes about Understanding true spirituality,  check it out here - https://chetannarang.org/understanding-god-true-religion-true-spirituality/Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for philosophical mentorship, counselling & life coaching with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground YouTube channel here -https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlayground--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:Music from Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/augustine/another-lifeLicense code: A4IITIDDH56OQH7H"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0025 - 3 ways to be less biased in your daily life | Understanding and correcting confirmation bias

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 12, 2023 10:50


    In this episode, I, Chetan Narang, walk you through the confirmation bias, which I believe is one of the most tricky cognitive biases primarily because of its ability to hide in plain sight even for the most self aware person.I talk about where we can see this bias in our day-to-day lives.I talk about some direct indicators for spotting it in our own thinking.I talk about how we can guard ourselves against it.And, I talk about why all of this is especially relevant in the modern day and age.Plus, I throw in a funny anecdote or two because, why not?(00:00) - Intro(00:30) - What is confirmation bias?(01:46) - Some examples from our daily lives(03:48) - How to spot if your own thinking is biased(06:35) - Eliminating confirmation bias from your thinking(08:38) - Why all of this is especially important nowI'll see you in the playground.Until next time.Peace out.--------------For the playlist of The Unlearning Playground episodes talking about various cognitive biases and logical fallacies,  check it out here - https://chetannarang.org/understanding-cognitive-biases/Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for philosophical mentorship, counselling & life coaching with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground YouTube channel here -https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlayground--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0024 - Hope & equanimity | A message for the new year | Keeping a positive frame of mind

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 29, 2022 8:08


    The new year is upon us, and with this being the last episode of 2022, I wanted to leave this year with a positive message for everyone listening. The message this episode hopes to convey is one of hope and equanimity, and having more positive vibes.In the sensationalist times we live in (read hustle culture and social media world), it's almost as if everyone is rushing around trying to be the next big thing or do the next big thing or at least trying to know about what the next big thing is going to be.To be able to be hopeful on a personal and a collective level in such an environment, and to maintain equanimity and composure, are no small feats indeed.Let's try to talk this through in this short, yet potent episode.I'll see you in the playground.Until next time.Peace out.(00:00) - Intro(01:22) - Maybe, a short Zen story(02:32) - Hope(03:42) - Equanimity(05:50) - Why this is relevant in today's world(06:55) - Ending, on a positive note!--------------For reading the "Maybe" story,  check it out here - https://www.instagram.com/p/CFCcaZUsvlU/ Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for philosophical mentorship & counselling with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground YouTube channel here -https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlayground--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0023 - On Diwali, crackers & Shri Ram

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 27, 2022 23:12


    Diwali is the festival of light and prosperity. We have all heard and read this line in our childhood textbooks, but what is its real significance? What is the real meaning of the festival of Diwali?And then of course – the central question that occupies our social media around this festival – should we burst crackers on this day?And going even deeper – what can we learn from the life of Shri Ram? What did that famous story Ramayana essentially represent?I tackle these questions, and some more, in this episode, with a sincere hope that it resonates at least as much with you as it did with me.I personally think this is one of my best episodes, given its timeliness and relevance to the way religion and spirituality is viewed and practised in the modern society these days.Do I live up to these claims?Only one way to find out.Dig right in.(00:00) - Intro(00:47) - Diwali & the backdrop(02:50) - Diwali & the question of crackers(04:12) - My personal stance on crackers(07:40) - Some common(?) sense(08:16) - The faults in others(10:20) - It is all a ploy(12:12) - It is a ritual after all(13:20) - Should we do this on Shri Ram's day?(16:10) - The real light & prosperity of Diwali(21:08) - EndingI'll see you in the playground.Until next time.Peace out.--------------For the anti-abortion argument that I briefly pointed to in this episode, check out episode 16 of my podcast here - https://chetannarang.org/the-framing-effect-cognitive-biases/Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for philosophical mentorship & counselling with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground YouTube channel here -https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlayground--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0022 - The gambler's fallacy | Understanding cognitive biases & logical fallacies in human psychology

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 13, 2022 10:24


    The gambler's fallacy is one of those logical fallacies of the human psyche that is equal parts hilarious and equal parts serious.As you'll see in this episode, the examples I provide for this fallacy are almost laughable and ridiculous at times. But the impact it has on our everyday lives is uncanny. And that makes this a very important episode in the series of my episodes on human cognitive biases and logical fallacies.For the entire series, please hop on to the playlist here.It is a short and sweet episode, like most others in my podcast. :PHope you experience as much resonance listening to it as much I did while creating it.(00:00) - Intro(00:47) - What is the gambler's fallacy?(02:40) - A hilarious example(04:19) - Why do we fall prey to this fallacy?(05:09) - Some real-life examples & implications(08:42) - How to counter the gambler's fallacy?(09:49) - EndingSo, without further ado, let's get into it.I'll see you in the playground.Until next time.Peace out.--------------Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for philosophical mentorship & counselling with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground YouTube channel here -https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlayground--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0021 - Unselfing, letting go of your ego in the modern world

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 29, 2022 11:23


    Ours is the time of the ego - rampant, self-indulgent ego. Selfies, personalised feeds, personalised ads, personalised everything - almost all good products, but almost all terrible if left unchecked or unsupervised.And isn't that true for our times? We have let the idea of our “selves” go too far - far more than we ourselves can handle it. And that is impacting not just our public discourse and our politics, but also our relationships and our everyday lives as we speak.However, we also live in the time of Understanding - a fully encompassing, discerning Understanding. And one core precursor to that Understanding is a detachment from the cobweb of the self, of the ego.Which is where I bring to you the idea of “Unselfing”.I came across this term in a very recent article a friend had shared with me. All the details to the article and the author are below in the show notes. It is a must read, just as this episode is a must listen. :P(00:00) - Intro(01:23) - Unselfing.social, by Maria Popova(04:41) - My musings on unselfingWell, let's catch up in the playground.Until next time.Peace out.--------------Unselfing, by Maria Popova -https://unselfing.social/More of Maria's work -https://www.themarginalian.org/Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for philosophical mentorship & counselling with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground YouTube channel here -https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlayground--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0020 - How to cope with the low phases of life | Depression help

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 15, 2022 16:58


    Everyone goes through the highs and lows of life - no matter what social situation they're in, no matter how much privilege others perceive in their life situation, life has its highs and lows for everyone.By their very definition, the low phases of life are more difficult to navigate for us. Join me in this episode as I talk about a few general dos and don'ts during such times. Of course, any specific advice has to be tailored to the individual situation at hand, but my aim here is to cover a few general principles that form the bedrock of a lot of subjective advice that everyone can benefit from. (00:00) - Intro(01:16) - Where does the education system lack(06:00) - Sourav Ganguly & labels(08:40) - Virat Kohli & speed breakers(11:56) - The ocean & perspective(15:52) - EndingI'll see you in the playground.Until next time.Peace out.--------------Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for philosophical mentorship & counselling with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground YouTube channel here -https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlayground--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0019 - Outgroup homogeneity cognitive bias | They are all the same

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 18, 2022 7:46


    The human mind has a tendency to over-homogenize its outgroups. Statements and narratives that generalise and stereotype our outgroups seem to be more easily acceptable to us than we would expect from our rational selves.Join me in this episode as I talk about the outgroup homogeneity bias. I know it's a bit of a mouthful, but it is one of those cognitive biases that is actually very fascinating once understood properly.Like most of my episodes, I talk about how to go about understanding this cognitive bias in simple and easy-to-understand language. And I also cite examples from our everyday lives where this bias creeps in and holds us back from being the best we can be.(00:00)    Prologue(00:45)    What are ingroups and outgroups?(01:34)    What is meant by outgroup homogeneity?(02:09)    A fascinating example(04:18)    Men vs Women(06:20)    Stereotypes & how to understand them(07:25)    EndingI had fun recording this episode.I hope you have fun listening to it.I'll see you in the playground.Until next time.Peace out.--------------Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for philosophical mentorship & counselling with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground YouTube channel here -https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlayground--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0018 - Three issues with religions today, and how we can solve them.

    Play Episode Play 15 sec Highlight Listen Later Jul 28, 2022 22:11


    In the modern world, there are three broad kinds of issues we face when it comes to perceiving and talking about religion, god and spirituality.Join me as I walk you through these three problems and how we can go about solving them. After all, the greatest merit in pointing out problems lies in at least trying to put forward solutions too. That's exactly what I'm doing in this episode.The content here is not specific to any single religion, or even any specific train of thought. I claim that it is applicable to all the religions out there.Is that too much to claim?Only one way to find out.Dig right in.Here's the podcast playlist (about understanding god, religion and spirituality) that I talked about in the episode:https://chetannarang.org/understanding-god-true-religion-true-spirituality/(00:00)     Prologue(01:04)     I believe(08:43)     I don't believe(12:08)     I don't care(13:55)     Why say all of this?(18:03)     How to understand God?(19:16)     A short zen story, coz why not?(20:48)     Ending--------------Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for philosophical mentorship & counselling with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground YouTube channel here -https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlayground--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0017 - Unlearning the attachment to victimhood

    Play Episode Play 15 sec Highlight Listen Later Jul 14, 2022 12:23


    An old quote of mine reads, “More than being identified with the victim in your story, be identified with the observer of it. The latter is closer to the truth.”In this episode of The Unlearning Playground, I expand on what I mean when I say this.Like most of my everyday-life advice episodes, this one is also centred around wisdom that's applicable to and is pragmatically focussed on our day-to-day lives.And you'll also see why this is quite a necessary collective message for our times too, because if you look closely, we seem to be collectively rigged by this virus of victimhood.If I was to summarise the need for this episode and the message therein, I would summarise it in this beautiful quote whose author I am unaware of, "If you don't heal what hurt you, you'll bleed on people who didn't cut you."Tune in to the episode to know more and know better.And please don't forget to like, share and subscribe and leave a rating/review for the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.I'll see you in the playground.Until next time.Peace out.(00:00)    Prologue(00:39)    We are all humans, and victims at times(01:45)    Why unlearn victimhood?(05:24)    Our boundaries matter, and how(07:42)    A very important lesson for our time(09:59)    Internet & victimhood(10:46)    A beautiful Zen proverb(11:12)    Closing--------------Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for philosophical mentorship & counselling with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground YouTube channel here -https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlayground--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0016 - The framing effect | Cognitive biases | Pro life vs Pro choice | Wage gap | Critical thinking

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 30, 2022 22:58


    The framing effect is one of the easiest cognitive biases to understand and make sense of. Join me, Chetan Narang, in this episode of The Unlearning Playground podcast as I walk through an easy explanation for the same.In addition to just talking about the framing effect, I talk about how it is very easily spotted in our modern day public discourse atmosphere via two frames or narratives that sway most of us enough to end up hating the other side of the argument.One of the topics I've picked up is a very hot topic these days - the whole pro life vs pro choice debate, the anti abortion vs pro abortion fiasco. I try to walk through this very controversial topic all the while trying to drive home the point of looking at all sides of the topic rather than simply picking a side and dehumanising the other.The other topic is another controversial one - Is there a wage gap between men and women in our society? Again, I explain how the framing effect can fog over our understanding of such simple yet very important topics of our times.(00:00)    Prologue(01:16)    What is the framing effect?(04:09)    What not to miss out here(05:16)    Trigger warning(06:07)    Abortions - The pro life vs pro choice debate(07:24)    The misogynist-power-grab frame(09:20)    The remorseless-baby-killer frame(10:17)    The nuances that need to be considered by both sides(13:58)    The wage gap - Women get paid less than men?(14:23)    The systemic-discrimination frame(19:10)    The outright-denial frame(20:20)    How to think about your frames?(21:34)    ClosingThis episode is another one in my series of episodes about cognitive biases that I run on this podcast. You can check out the entire series here - Understanding human cognitive biases | Critical thinking--------------Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for philosophical mentorship & counselling with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground YouTube channel here -https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlayground--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0015 - Understanding reincarnation, rebirth and karma

    Play Episode Play 24 sec Highlight Listen Later Jun 16, 2022 18:24


    For almost all of us, the way in which we perceive the idea of reincarnation, rebirth and karma - both believers as well as skeptics - is limited.Join me, Chetan Narang, in this episode of The Unlearning Playground podcast to go into the depth of understanding these heavy terms. We unpack what these terms do not mean, what are the misconceptions surrounding them in our everyday interpretations of them, what we need to let go to actually digest the nectar of what they were always meant for.I try to provide a nondual explanation of reincarnation, rebirth and karma that is in line with an understanding of Life that does not warrant any belief or faith or bias - all you need to do is to sit with these words in the most honest way possible, especially when they do not resonate with you. That is, after all, when we need honesty the most.All said and done, let's get into it.I'll see you in the playground.(00:46)    Karan, Arjun & superficialities(03:36)    Why understand reincarnation?(05:18)    The ocean of Life(10:59)    The rebirth game worth the candle(13:54)    The nectar of Karma(16:50)    Ending--------------Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for philosophical mentorship & counselling with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/For my discourse on what love looks like -https://chetannarang.org/what-does-love-look-like-relationships-kindness/For my playlist on Understanding God, true spirituality, religion and philosophy -https://chetannarang.org/understanding-god-true-religion-true-spirituality/Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground YouTube channel here -https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlayground--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0014 - Quotes and misinterpretations | How to be more practical with words

    Play Episode Play 32 sec Highlight Listen Later Jun 2, 2022 17:19


    So much of our waking lives revolve around words that we barely get time to think about what is the right relationship to have with our own words.We interpret everything – all the quotes we read, all the videos we watch, all the podcasts we listen, all the conversations we have, all the social media posts we consume – all of it passes through the mental models engrained in our minds.The path from these interpretations being just interpretations to them becoming truths should be one we carefully travel, especially when it matters.It is not these quotes that are limited, it is our interpretations of them that limit the world we see.Join myself, Chetan Narang, in Episode 14 of The Unlearning Playground Podcast where I talk about how can quotes, words and our own interpretations of them limit us and our understanding of our world.(00:23)    Prologue(02:28)    Words & misinterpretations(03:44)    Acharya Prashant vs Me - What vs How(09:27)    Advaita Vedanta and how to be more practical with words(12:20)    Do what feels right?(14:26)    Discernment(15:36)    Closing - an invitation--------------Check out all of my work on my website -https://chetannarang.org/For one-on-one personal sessions for philosophical mentorship & counselling with me -https://chetannarang.org/nondual-philosophical-counselling-mentorship/Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram here -https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground YouTube channel here -https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlayground--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0013 - How important is money?

    Play Episode Play 20 sec Highlight Listen Later May 6, 2022 22:33


    Money is not everything but it is something.  While most of us agree on this basic statement, we still do not quite understand what is the right relationship to have with money.How much money is too much money?How much money is enough?What is the right way to think about money?These are some questions that remain perpetually unanswered for a lot of us, in the busy lives that we lead these days. With the employee performance appraisal season right around the corner in the Indian economic cycle, money is definitely one of the hot topics flowing around. And there wouldn't be a shortage of questions and concerns that pop up in our minds about it.Am I getting paid enough?Should I switch jobs?Will that promotion make it all worth it?Should I look out to get a higher salary or benefits?All of these are important questions. And there are better answers to them than "It depends." or "It's all relative". We just need to open our eyes and see things the way they are, not the way we think they are. Let's spend some time doing just that.Tune right in.I'll see you in the playground.(00:00)    Highlight(00:42)    Why this topic?(03:10)    A quote (and a lesson) from the 1800s(05:58)    The modern predicament of discontentment(11:43)    The need to wake up(12:25)    Advice #1 - Externalisation(13:38)    Advice #2 - Limits(15:10)    Advice #3 - Comparisons(16:51)    An extremely important unlearning(17:42)    A short zen story(19:35)    Closing--------------Connect with me (Chetan Narang) on Instagram (DMs open) here - https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout my YouTube channel (The Unlearning Playground) here - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlayground--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    Trailer: The Unlearning Playground, by Chetan Narang

    Play Episode Listen Later May 4, 2022 2:04 Transcription Available


    Want to thank yourself later for having spent some quality time on the internet finally? You are at the right place.Unlearn with me at The Unlearning Playground Podcast.Let's get to the root of philosophy, spirituality, self, god and all of that jazz while never letting go of the truth in favour of what's comfortable.Let's unlearn our biases and delusions and attune ourselves to critical thinking.Let's step up our games so we can collectively play the game better.Let's get into the playground.--------------Connect with me, Chetan Narang, on Instagram (DMs open) here - https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout The Unlearning Playground YouTube channel here - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlayground--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtrack:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0012 - The dream of Life, engineering a utopia

    Play Episode Play 21 sec Highlight Listen Later Apr 12, 2022 24:19


    A meditative discourse on spirituality, philosophy and its utility in our everyday lives.I walk through an understanding of the root of eastern philosophy - The Advaita Vedanta or Nonduality - via the metaphor of dreams.And then I talk about how the realisations that follow this understanding, can actually lead to a better future for ourselves, for humanity and for Life at large.Did I do any justice to the big claims? Only one way to find out.Tune right in.I'll see you in the playground.--------------Connect with me (Chetan Narang) on Instagram (DMs open) here - https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout my YouTube channel (The Unlearning Playground) here - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlaygroundTo get a glimpse of discussions on non duality in my earlier episodes, check out Episode #005 - The Truth about God.The pale blue dot speech, by Carl Sagan - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wupToqz1e2g--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0011 - On perfect and good, a fresh perspective

    Play Episode Play 20 sec Highlight Listen Later Apr 3, 2022 5:58


    A short and fresh perspective about a quote that I find to be amongst the most potent ones ever - "Perfect is the enemy of good."I think this episode is far from perfect, but it is good. Practice what you preach, eh?Tune right in.I'll see you in the playground.--------------Connect with me on Instagram (DMs open) here - https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout my YouTube channel here - https://www.youtube.com/c/TheUnlearningPlayground--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0010 - Experiencing vs Remembering Self | Cognitive biases

    Play Episode Play 21 sec Highlight Listen Later Mar 17, 2022 10:18 Transcription Available


    Another standalone episode in our series about human cognitive biases and logical fallacies. And I dare say, this is amongst the most “useful” episodes I would do in this series.If you let it, the concept covered in these ten minutes has the power to change the way you've been thinking about your life thus far.Am I exaggerating? Only one way to find out. Tune right in.I'll see you in the playground.--------------Connect with me on Instagram (DMs open) here - https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout my YouTube channel here - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN3I5tAhOu2gPMZ99peSjTg--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0009 - Cognitive load | Ego depletion | Cognitive biases

    Play Episode Play 19 sec Highlight Listen Later Feb 25, 2022 12:07 Transcription Available


    Another episode in our series of episodes about human cognitive biases.In this one, I talk about Cognitive load, which is an overarching phenomenon that affects our moment-to-moment state of being and thus, affects our ability to make decisions, to understand and process information - in short, it affects how we think. And hence, being aware of it is important.I also briefly touch upon the need for meditation, and why it is something that everyone should incorporate in their everyday lives.This episode is as everyday-life as it gets when it comes to pragmatic philosophy, wisdom and understanding. Tune right in. I'll see you in the playground.--------------Connect with me on Instagram (DMs open) here - https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout my YouTube channel here - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN3I5tAhOu2gPMZ99peSjTg--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0008 - We see the world as we are | Cognitive biases | Logical fallacies

    Play Episode Play 30 sec Highlight Listen Later Feb 12, 2022 15:22 Transcription Available


    Join me as I build on one of the most influential quotes I've had the good fortune of coming across - "We see the world as we are, not as the world is."Cognitive biases and logical fallacies govern so much of our day-to-day thinking that it's almost mind-boggling when we encounter them for the first time. In this episode, I talk about the three levels at which our perceptions color the world we see.Something that I always talk about is how you need to become the adult you never had around you as a child or as an adolescent. Becoming aware of, and unlearning the attachment to, our own biases and delusions is a major chunk of the work everyone needs to do to really become an adult.So hop on. Let's grow up together. I'll see you in the playground. Pun intended!--------------Connect with me on Instagram (DMs open) here - https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout my YouTube channel here - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN3I5tAhOu2gPMZ99peSjTg--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0007 - Being better at relationships | What does love look like? | Kindness | Rocco Jarman

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 14, 2022 9:50 Transcription Available


    Most of human life is relationships - personal, professional, casual.Join me as I walk you through an extremely potent and a really effective method that has the power to improve all your relationships manifold. It is based on a meditation that my friend Rocco Jarman shared with me quite recently. Like most of the man's work, it is powerful, it is moving and it is worth looking at with eyes wide open.And as is the case with most life-transforming things, all that's needed of you is an open mind and a willingness to unlearn and relearn.See you in the playground. Tune in!--------------For more of Rocco's work, check out his Instagram page here - https://www.instagram.com/rocketsprocket/His podcast, Eyes Wide Open Life, can be found here - https://eyeswideopenlife.org/podcast/--------------Connect with me on Instagram (DMs open) here - https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout my YouTube channel here - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN3I5tAhOu2gPMZ99peSjTg--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0006 - Simplify your life | Work-life balance

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 27, 2021 17:25 Transcription Available


    In the name of development and progress, we modern humans have complicated our lives way more than needed.And in the name of paying our bills or advancing our careers or earning a livelihood or being independent, we complicate them even more.Isn't this true? It is. It most definitely is.This episode is an attempt from my side to make you, the listener, think deeper on this subject. It is an invitation to reconsider HOW you are leading your life, not WHAT you are doing in it.We need to have the courage to identify where we are complicating things for ourselves and then to act on these realisations and simplfy them, so that we can focus our energies on our real needs, not the imagined ones.I build on a real life incident from my life to expand on a quote from Henry David Thoreau's Walden, "The farmer is endeavoring to solve the problem of a livelihood by a formula more complicated than the problem itself."Tune in!--------------Connect with me on Instagram (DMs open) here - https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout my YouTube channel here - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN3I5tAhOu2gPMZ99peSjTg--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0005 - The truth about God | Understanding over believing | Who am I?

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 15, 2021 20:05 Transcription Available


    An episode dedicated to God - what the word actually means. Absorbing the content here should give you a whole lot of clarity about these burning questions we all have about God:Is there a creator?What are the atheists missing?What does the word God really mean?Where do most religions converge in their teachings?What is the real answer to that age-old question “Who am I”?In the information age, it's downright unfortunate that the majority of us still don't even have a hint of this understanding. It will take time to grasp the profundity of the entire thing, but the first step to any of that would be to become aware that there IS something to grasp! If you're here, take this opportunity and dive right in. It'll be worth your time. I promise.--------------Connect with me on Instagram (DMs open) here - https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout my YouTube channel here - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN3I5tAhOu2gPMZ99peSjTg--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0004 - Going within | Ego, self & illusions | Know thyself

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 1, 2021 16:09 Transcription Available


    One of the most potent advice you can give someone is to ask them to go within, or to know themselves.We have all heard the old sayings from eastern philosophy."Go within.""Know thyself."I try in this episode to throw some light on these beautiful sayings. Join me as I walk you through a basic introduction to what it means to go within, what is the ego, what is the self and what are some illusions surrounding them.Jiddu Krishnamurti, or Uncle JK as I fondly call him, used to say, "When I understand myself, I understand you. And out of that understanding comes love." The man was right!This surely will be worth your time, I promise. I wouldn't be doing this if I thought otherwise.Tune in!--------------Connect with me on Instagram (DMs open) here - https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout my YouTube channel here - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN3I5tAhOu2gPMZ99peSjTg--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0003 - Is there a creator? | God - The creator fallacy

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 24, 2021 9:03 Transcription Available


    Ironically, one of the most important words that mankind ever came up with is also one of the most misinterpreted words of all time. That word is "God".And that word also forms the bedrock of some of the most potent questions a human being can ask:Is there a God?Is there a Creator?Are the atheists right?Do you believe in a God?What is the creator fallacy?Is there some truth about God?What must we unlearn about God?Join me as I walk you through one of the biggest things I had to unlearn about "God" in my journey.--------------Connect with me on Instagram (DMs open) here - https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout my YouTube channel here - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN3I5tAhOu2gPMZ99peSjTg--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0002 - Being one with everything | The separation fallacy

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 19, 2021 11:29 Transcription Available


    The separation fallacy is one of the most fundamental ways in which the truth evades us, but it is so hardwired into the way we lead our lives that it is almost impossible to see that it is indeed a fallacy. An important fallacy, no doubt, but like all fallacies, it comes back to bite us when we forget its true nature.I talk about what the ancient Hindu, Zen and Buddhist saints meant when they said, "Be one with everything".I talk about what Alan Watts meant when he said, "You do not come into this world, you come out of it."Hope I did a good job. Only one honest way to find out and tell me. Dig in.--------------Connect with me on Instagram (DMs open) here - https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout my YouTube channel here - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN3I5tAhOu2gPMZ99peSjTg--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    0001 - Introduction to The Unlearning Playground

    Play Episode Play 46 sec Highlight Listen Later Nov 9, 2021 6:21 Transcription Available


    A brief introduction to what The Unlearning Playground is all about and what to expect from the content you're about to consume. Dive right in.Connect with me on Instagram (DMs open) here - https://www.instagram.com/nrng.chetan/Checkout my YouTube channel here - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN3I5tAhOu2gPMZ99peSjTg--------------Credits for the beautiful soundtracks:"Dreamer" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)"Reaching Out" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com)Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 4.0 Licensehttp://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

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