In episode 025 of the 'From 78' podcast, the host reflects on the significance of maintaining routines and the therapeutic role of podcasting in organizing thoughts. The host discusses the challenges of a busy November travel schedule, which disrupted his usual podcast routine, leading him to deeper contemplation of how expressing his thoughts changes his relationship with them. Highlighting Albert Camus' 'Notebooks 1942-1951,' he explores the longing for places of informal social interaction and the creation of bonds outside structured environments. The episode also examines Paul Kingsnorth's idea of the 'four Ps' (People, Place, Prayer, Past) and their diminishing role in contemporary life, juxtaposed with the practical difficulties of reclaiming these elements without abandoning modern conveniences. The episode concludes with gratitude to listeners and a reflection on balancing the longing for a deeper connection with the practicalities of modern living.00:32 Introduction and Podcast Update01:54 The Importance of Podcasting in My Life04:21 Reflecting on Inspirations and Ideas08:45 Engaging with Albert Camus12:00 Longing for Connection and Place19:52 Paul Kingsnorth’s Four Ps23:14 Modern Intelligence and Points of Reference29:05 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

Reflections on Life, Growth, and Connection with Rob BellIn this episode, Neil interviews Rob Bell, delving into significant memories and experiences that shaped Rob's life. They explore Rob's childhood memories on a farm and a rustic cabin in Michigan, poignant historical events like the Challenger explosion, and discussions on the impact of environment and personal history on his outlook. Rob articulates his philosophies on living a fulfilled life by being attuned to nature, engaging in creative processes, and embracing curiosity and connection with others. The conversation also touches on influences from music, the importance of empathy, and the evolution of personal growth in understanding oneself and others.You can find more of Rob's work over at RobBell.com, and you can join his Patreon page to support his ongoing work. Table of Contents00:31 Introduction and Early Memories00:56 Life on the Farm02:24 Michigan Cabin Adventures03:17 Significant Historical Events05:53 Impact of Locations on Life06:31 Connection with Nature16:32 Influence of Media and Music20:47 Reflections on Parenting and Influence26:03 Current Phase of Life29:49 Navigating Emotional Investments34:24 Understanding Agricultural Perspectives35:39 Shifting from Contempt to Curiosity37:28 The Glitch in the Progressive Matrix45:11 Navigating Parent-Child Relationships52:28 Learning from Others and Self-Reflection56:30 The Power of Perspective and Absurdity

The Significance of Place in Shaping Our LivesIn this episode of the 'From 78' podcast, I explore the subjective experience of time and the impact of physical places on shaping personal identity and relationships. I share personal anecdotes about the various places that significantly impacted my life, including a game store, a Borders bookstore, and a Denny's restaurant. I reflect on how these places provided a sense of community, facilitated friendships, and influenced my tastes and aesthetics. I also ponder the effect of technology on social interaction and question how I can create or find similar meaningful spaces in my current life. The episode encapsulates a sense of nostalgia, gratitude, and curiosity about the evolving nature of communal spaces.00:31 Introduction and Greetings01:03 Kolacky and Coffee: A Morning Ritual02:10 The Importance of Plans02:47 Wandering Thoughts: The Significance of Place05:10 Reflecting on Past Experiences07:39 The Role of Place in Personal Growth10:56 Memorable Places: Game Store and Borders17:59 Denny’s: A Hub for Connection27:00 The Impact of Technology on Social Spaces28:54 Concluding Thoughts and Gratitude

Reflections on Time and LongingIn this impromptu episode of the 78 podcast, Neil Gorman delves into his subjective experience of time, sparked by a spontaneous observation while driving past a middle school. The episode explores themes of nostalgia and longing as Neil reflects on his own middle school experiences, juxtaposing them with his life as an adult, and wrestling with the emotions these memories evoke. Introduction and Episode ContextReflecting on Daily RoutinesA Nostalgic EncounterMemories of Middle SchoolThe Longing for YouthAdult Reflections and RealizationsConcluding Thoughts and Reflections

Embracing Uncertainty and Desire: A Reflection on Open-MindednessIn episode 021 of the From78 podcast, Neil reflects on a personal anecdote about eating a bagel and connects it to his thoughts after reading a New Yorker article about Mahmud Mandani's 1964 bus trip across America. Neil then explores themes of open-mindedness, desire, and the subjective experience of time, questioning whether people today are still capable of embracing the unknown and unfamiliar without fear or defensiveness. Through these reflections, the host delves into the concept of desire within Lacanian psychoanalysis and challenges listeners to consider their own reactions to lack and absence.00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdote01:52 Introducing the Main Topic03:08 New Yorker Article Excerpt05:41 Reflecting on the Past and Present09:15 Exploring Human Nature and Desire13:07 Concluding Thoughts