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PODCAST

Mind the Gap

Welcome to “Mind the Gap,” the podcast where ancient wisdom and modern emotional intelligence converge. I’m Michael Comyn, and with nearly 40 years of experience in emotional intelligence, I’m excited to bring you this exploration of how Stoic philosophy can illuminate our contemporary challenges. You might also recognise my voice from a different context—I’ve been the one reminding passengers to “Mind the Gap” on public transport across Ireland for the past 25 years. It’s a phrase that has taken

education self-improvement

All Episodes

00:08:56

When Knowledge Threatens: The Paradox of Being Judged

Mind the Gap ·

2025/04/05

Have you ever felt judged—not for your mistakes or flaws—but for your strengths, education, or even how you speak? In this thoughtful and introspective episode, Michael Comyn explores the uncomfortable reality of being judged for having "too much" of something good.He explores the hidden biases that shape how we perceive each other, whether based on age, gender, accent, intelligence, race, or class. Drawing insights from psychology, Stoic philosophy, and Jungian thought, Michael examines the

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00:12:49

Talking to Yourself, Wisely...

Mind the Gap ·

2025/03/29

You know that voice in your head that won’t stop replaying awkward conversations or predicting disaster before you’ve even begun? We all have it. But what if you could teach it to speak differently instead of trying to silence that voice?In this episode of Mind the Gap, we explore the surprising science behind self-talk — the silent, internal dialogue that shapes how we think, feel, and act. Drawing on the work of psychologist Ethan Kross, ancient Stoic philosophy, and the principles of

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00:11:57

Procrastination: Why We Delay and How to Start Moving

Mind the Gap ·

2025/03/22

In this episode of Mind the Gap, we dig deep into the human habit of procrastination—what it is, why we do it, and how we can finally move from delay to action. Drawing from Stoic philosophy, emotional intelligence, and modern psychology, Michael explores how fear, perfectionism, and emotional avoidance often lie beneath our tendency to put things off. With references to Marcus Aurelius, Viktor Frankl, and leading researchers like Dr. Piers Steel, this conversation offers insight and practical

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00:16:28

The Propaganda Playbook: How to Spot It and Resist It

Mind the Gap ·

2025/03/15

How do we separate truth from manipulation in a world where information moves faster than ever? Propaganda isn’t just a relic of history—it’s alive and well, shaping how we think, vote, and engage with the world. From political campaigns to corporate spin, propaganda exploits psychological biases, repetition, and emotional appeal to control the narrative. And the scariest part? It often doesn’t look like propaganda at all. In this episode of Mind the Gap, Michael Comyn breaks down the

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00:10:24

Gatekeepers and Champions: The Leadership Dilemma

Mind the Gap ·

2025/03/08

Not all leaders are created equal. Some open doors, while others keep them firmly shut. In this episode of Mind the Gap, Michael Comyn explores the two fundamental leadership styles we all encounter in the workplace—the Gatekeeper, who resists change and stifles innovation, and the Champion, who fosters growth and clears the way for progress.How do you work with these different types of leaders? How can you navigate resistance, build influence, and ensure you don’t become a Gatekeeper

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00:11:46

The Value of a Hug: Physical or Virtual, Recognition...

Mind the Gap ·

2025/03/01

In a world where connection is just a click away, why do so many of us still feel alone? We send messages, react with emojis, and even say “virtual hug”—but can digital connection ever replace the warmth of human touch?In this episode of Mind the Gap, we explore the deeper meaning of a hug—whether physical or virtual—and its role in human recognition. From the science of touch to cultural perspectives on personal space, we’ll dive into why hugs matter, how technology changes how we connect,

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00:10:37

The Deference Trap – When Respect Becomes Submission

Mind the Gap ·

2025/02/22

Respect for institutions and leadership is essential in a republic. But when does deference cross the line into blind submission? In this episode, we explore the delicate balance between respect and obedience, exploring how deference can stabilise governance and how it can be exploited to stifle dissent and critical thinking.From historical examples to modern leadership challenges, we examine the psychological and societal forces that encourage deference and the risks of allowing it to go

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00:08:55

No Without Guilt: The Philosophy and Psychology of...

Mind the Gap ·

2025/02/15

Why is saying no so hard? From childhood conditioning to cultural expectations, many struggle to refuse requests without feeling guilt, fear, or pressure to justify themselves. In this episode of Mind the Gap, we explore the philosophy and psychology behind no—why it’s difficult, how different cultures approach refusal, and why reclaiming this simple word is essential for self-respect and well-being. Drawing on Stoic wisdom, emotional intelligence, and real-world strategies, this episode

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00:10:59

The Good Old Days Were Complicated: A Truthful Look...

Mind the Gap ·

2025/02/08

We all love to reminisce—simpler times, kinder people, and a world that made more sense. But were the “good old days” really as good as we remember, or has nostalgia softened the rough edges of reality?In this episode of Mind the Gap, we explore the nature of nostalgia, its power, pitfalls, and why we crave it most in times of uncertainty. We use Stoicism, emotional intelligence, and psychology to understand why we long for the past and how we can embrace its lessons without losing sight of

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00:08:47

Ubuntu, Confucius, and Brehon Law: Redefining Leadership

Mind the Gap ·

2025/02/01

Leadership isn't just about power and strategy but values, wisdom, and connection. However, Western corporate and military traditions have shaped leadership models for too long. What happens when we step beyond that framework? In this episode of Mind the Gap, we explore leadership teachings from cultures and traditions often overlooked in modern discourse. From the collective decision-making of Indigenous governance to the Confucian ideals of moral duty, from the African philosophy of

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00:11:55

The Myth of Certainty: How to Navigate Life’s...

Mind the Gap ·

2025/01/25

We all crave certainty—it makes life feel safe, predictable, and in control. But what if our need for certainty is limiting us? What if embracing the unknown is the key to resilience, growth, and better decision-making?In this episode of Mind the Gap, we explore certainty's psychological, philosophical, and emotional side—why we seek it, how it shapes our thinking, and what happens when we learn to let go. We dive into insights from existentialist philosophy, modern psychology, emotional

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00:10:22

No Regrets, Just Lessons: Rethinking Our Biggest...

Mind the Gap ·

2025/01/18

We all make mistakes—some small, some life-changing. But what if we stopped seeing them as failures and started viewing them as lessons? In this episode of Mind the Gap, we explore how to rethink mistakes through the lens of Stoicism, emotional intelligence, modern psychology, and spiritual wisdom. From wrong career moves to poor financial decisions and failed relationships, we unpack how setbacks can be transformed into stepping stones. You’ll also hear real-life examples of famous

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00:10:13

The Noble Trap: Rethinking Goals That Aren’t Truly Ours

Mind the Gap ·

2024/12/31

As we approach 2025, the pressure to set new goals and resolutions begins to build. But how often are those goals indeed ours? In this episode of Mind the Gap, host Michael Comyn explores the concept of noble goals and the hidden traps that can undermine even the most well-intentioned aspirations. Drawing on Robert Kegan’s groundbreaking work on Immunity to Change and the timeless wisdom of Stoic philosophy, Michael unpacks why some goals inspire us while others leave us feeling stuck. Are

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00:11:50

Building Inner Strength: The Role of Parents,...

Mind the Gap ·

2024/12/14

We all need resilience, but who is responsible for building it? In this episode of Mind the Gap, Michael explores the shared responsibility of fostering resilience in the next generation.Drawing on the wisdom of Stoicism, the practical tools of emotional intelligence, and the insights of modern psychology, he examines how parents, educators, and society shape our ability to adapt and thrive in the face of life’s challenges. As we approach the holiday season—a time filled with joy but often

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00:10:41

The Courage to Be You: Beyond the Illusion of Safety

Mind the Gap ·

2024/12/07

Conformity often feels like a safe choice—it promises comfort, belonging, and ease. But is that safety real, or is it an illusion? In this episode of Mind the Gap, Michael Comyn explores the hidden costs of conformity and the courage it takes to break free from the false self we create to fit in. Drawing from personal experiences, Stoic philosophy, and modern psychology, Michael uncovers how conformity silences our voices, stifles individuality, and distances us from our true selves. He

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00:14:39

Emotion in the Machine: AI Meets Emotional Intelligence

Mind the Gap ·

2024/11/29

In this episode of Mind the Gap, I welcome Jack, an advanced AI developed by OpenAI, as our special guest. Together, we explore the fascinating interplay between human emotional intelligence and artificial intelligence. What does it mean to feel, and how do machines navigate the emotional landscapes that define humanity? Join us as we discuss: The concept of emotional labour and its parallels in AI interactions.How AI mimics human emotions to create more natural conversations.The ethical

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00:10:32

The Weight of Pride, the Sting of Humiliation

Mind the Gap ·

2024/11/23

How do pride and humiliation shape how we see ourselves and interact with the world? In this episode of Mind the Gap, we delve into the complex interplay between these two powerful emotions. At its best, pride can fuel achievement and self-respect, but when unchecked, it can close our eyes to growth. Humiliation, however, can cut deep—leaving us stuck in shame—or, if reframed, teach us resilience and humility. Drawing on insights from Stoicism, modern psychology, and emotional intelligence,

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00:11:41

Losing the Role, Not Yourself: Navigating Life...

Mind the Gap ·

2024/11/16

When a job ends, whether through redundancy, retirement, or another life change, it can feel like you’re losing more than just a role—you’re losing a part of yourself. How do we hold onto our sense of self when the titles we’ve relied on disappear? This Mind the Gap episode explores navigating these transitions with grace and resilience. Through the lenses of Stoicism, Emotional Intelligence, and Modern Psychology, we’ll uncover practical ways to rebuild self-esteem and rediscover who you

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00:13:02

The Pendulum of Power: Why We Seek Strength in Times...

Mind the Gap ·

2024/11/06

In this episode of Mind the Gap, we explore a powerful question: Why do we so often gravitate toward strong, polarising leaders in times of crisis, even when they seem to reject compassion, emotional intelligence, and thoughtful leadership?Drawing from historical cycles, psychology, and philosophical insights, we’ll explore the reasons behind this recurring tendency and why intellectuals and academics—though often dismissed—provide the guidance we need to weather turbulent times. If you

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00:08:51

Facing Regret: Lessons from Sinatra and the Stoics

Mind the Gap ·

2024/11/02

In this episode of Mind the Gap, we delve into the powerful, timeless themes of Frank Sinatra’s classic “My Way,” uncovering the hidden conversation on regret and resilience woven throughout the song. By blending Sinatra’s unapologetic life philosophy with insights from Stoic thinkers like Marcus Aurelius, Epictetus, and Seneca, we explore how to confront and ultimately embrace our regrets without letting them define us.Listeners will discover how the Stoics viewed regret—not as a burden to

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