The Weekend University

Insights for Evolving Consciousness.

In-depth interviews with leading thinkers at the intersection of psychology, neuroscience, culture, and spirituality.

This show is for you if you’re interested in:

– Reducing suffering — in yourself and others
– Continuously upgrading your perspective
– Realising more of your potential
– Experiencing a greater sense of awe, meaning, and connection in everyday life.

New episodes every Thursday: linktr.ee/theweekenduniversity


The Weekend University

What if the strongest case for God wasn’t found in one single argument, but in the convergence of science, philosophy, and human experience?

In this week’s episode, Ross Douthat—New York Times columnist, bestselling author, and host of the Interesting Times podcast, shares insights from his latest book, “Believe”, which presents a rational case for faith in an age of growing secularism.

We explore why consciousness challenges purely materialist explanations of reality, how being “spiritual but not religious” can be both a starting point and a limitation, and the importance of discernment in today’s complex spiritual landscape. Ross also reflects on how his five-year battle with Lyme disease reshaped his relationship with God and deepened his understanding of faith.

Search “The Weekend University Ross Douthat” to watch the full interview, or check the comments for the link.

2 days ago | [YT] | 8

The Weekend University

What if healing deep emotional wounds wasn’t just about revisiting the past, but about reimagining it through the power of our minds?

In this week’s episode, Dr. Laurel Parnell—internationally recognised clinical psychologist, consultant, author, and developer of Attachment Focused EMDR- shares transformative insights from decades of pioneering work in trauma treatment.

We explore the link between EMDR and spiritual experiences, the powerful role of imagination in healing developmental deficits, and what really happens inside an Attachment Focused EMDR session—both in the therapy room and in the client’s inner world.

Dr. Parnell also draws from her bestselling books, including “Tapping In”, “Rewiring the Addicted Brain”, and “Attachment Focused EMDR”, offering practical wisdom for therapists and anyone interested in the healing journey.

Search “The Weekend University Dr Laurel Parnell” to watch the full interview, or check the comments for the link.

1 week ago | [YT] | 15

The Weekend University

What if the key to lasting love wasn’t about finding the “perfect” partner, but about rewiring the way our brains and bodies work in relationships?

In this week’s episode, Dr. Stan Tatkin—clinician, researcher, teacher, and founder of the Psychobiological Approach to Couples Therapy (PACT)—shares powerful insights from decades of groundbreaking work on attachment and relationships.

We explore why humans often operate from procedural memory in their partnerships, why relationships can feel so challenging, and the crucial difference between secure attachment and secure functioning relationships.

Dr. Tatkin also draws on lessons from his bestselling books, including “Wired for Love”, “Wired for Dating”, “In Each Other’s Care”, and “Your Brain on Love”—offering practical wisdom for creating stronger, more resilient bonds.

Search “The Weekend University Dr Stan Tatkin” to watch the full interview, or check the comments for the link.

2 weeks ago | [YT] | 10

The Weekend University

What if true leadership wasn’t just about strategy and success, but about belonging both to ourselves and to one another?

In this week’s episode, Jerry Colonna, renowned executive coach, former venture capitalist, and founder of Reboot.io, shares insights from decades of guiding leaders through the practice of radical self-inquiry.

We dive into themes from his latest book, “Reunion: Leadership and the Longing to Belong”, exploring how reconnecting with our ancestral lineage can heal disconnection, why letting go of the myth of meritocracy can be liberating, and how feeling worthy of love, safety, and belonging enables us to extend those gifts to others.

Jerry also discusses the personal and collective transformation that emerges when leaders embrace empathy, compassion, and the courage to “come home” to themselves.

Search “The Weekend University Jerry Colonna” to watch the full interview, or check the comments for the link.

3 weeks ago | [YT] | 9

The Weekend University

What if the earliest experiences between parent and child could shape not only a child’s emotional world, but also the way trauma is carried or healed across generations?

In this week’s episode, Dr. Alicia Lieberman, clinical psychologist, award-winning author, and senior developer of Child-Parent Psychotherapy (CPP) shares profound insights from over four decades of groundbreaking work with infants, young children, and families.

We explore the pioneering influence of Selma Fraiberg on Dr. Lieberman’s career, how the “ghosts” and “angels” in the nursery impact the intergenerational transmission of trauma, and why “speaking the unspeakable” is a crucial step in helping children build adaptive, healing narratives.

Dr. Lieberman also discusses lessons from her acclaimed books “The Emotional Life of the Toddler”, “Don’t Hit My Mommy”, and “Psychotherapy with Infants and Young Children”, as well as the wisdom behind her many awards, including the Rene Spitz and Hero Awards.

Search “The Weekend University Dr Alicia Lieberman” to watch the full interview, or check the comments for the link.

4 weeks ago (edited) | [YT] | 10

The Weekend University

What if our greatest addiction isn’t to substances but to speed itself?

In this week’s episode, Dr. Stephanie Brown - a licensed psychologist, researcher, and internationally recognised expert on addiction with over 40 years of clinical experience — reveals how an invisible addiction to speed is quietly damaging our mental health and relationships.

We explore her definition of addiction as “a deep self-destructive conflict of interest” and “a war within the self,” why our inability to embrace limitations may be at the root of the problem, and practical strategies for slowing down and regaining control.

Dr. Brown also shares insights from her groundbreaking book “Speed”, and how her work is helping individuals and families overcome the hidden pressures of modern life.

Search “The Weekend University Dr Stephanie Brown” to watch the full interview, or check the comments for the link.

1 month ago | [YT] | 11

The Weekend University

What if the key to mental well-being isn’t control but flexibility?

This week’s episode, Professor Steven Hayes, co-developer of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Relational Frame Theory, and Process-Based Therapy, shares life-changing insights from decades of pioneering psychological research.

We explore why secure attachment begins with social context, how developing a perspective-taking self can reduce suffering, and why treating people as individuals — not averages — is essential in mental health care.

Steve also talks about the psychological flexibility model - one of the most evidence-backed predictors of human flourishing, and how you can begin applying it in your own life today.

Search “Healing Attachment Wounds with Psychological Flexibility - Dr. Steven Hayes” to watch the full interview, or check the comments for the link.

1 month ago (edited) | [YT] | 9

The Weekend University

What if grief isn’t something to fix but something to honour?

In this episode, Dr. Jo — bereaved mother, bestselling author, and founder of the MISS Foundation, shares profound insights on living with loss and the deep connection between grief and love.

Discover why our culture’s obsession with happiness can hinder healing, how to truly support someone grieving, and the powerful rituals that help integrate loss in a meaningful way.

Dr. Jo also discusses her groundbreaking work at the Selah Carefarm and the Graduate Certificate in Trauma and Bereavement at ASU, offering a new path for those navigating traumatic grief.

Search “The Weekend University Dr Jo” to watch the full interview, or check the comments for the link.

1 month ago (edited) | [YT] | 16

The Weekend University

Struggling with emotional overwhelm, stuck patterns, or painful relationships?

In our latest episode, Anna Runkle — known online as the Crappy Childhood Fairy — shares practical, science-backed tools to break free from trauma-driven behaviours and re-regulate your nervous system.

Discover why traditional talk therapy may not work for everyone with early trauma, how attachment wounds shape relationships, and daily practices that can change your life — insights from her powerful book: Re-Regulated.

Search “The Weekend University Anna Runkle” to watch the full interview, or check the comments for the link.

1 month ago | [YT] | 15

The Weekend University

Ever wondered if reality is more than what we see?

In our new episode, Dr. James Glattfelder — physicist, complexity scientist, and philosopher — dives into mind-bending ideas about consciousness, the universe, and the meaning of life.

Discover why some believe consciousness could be the fabric of reality, how psychedelics might have shaped human history, and fresh insights from his book: “The Sapient Cosmos”.

Search “The Weekend University James Glattfelder” to watch the full interview, or check the comments for the link.

2 months ago | [YT] | 42