In this episode, we explore the cultural phenomenon and philosophical roots of main character energy, both its empowering promise and its dark underside.
Sparked by a moonlit conversation in Hanoi, this episode unspools into many threads.
We talk about:
- What main character energy really means (and why it matters)
- How to find joy and agency even in the absurd… yes, we’re talking The Myth of Sisyphus
- The dark side of performance and Western privilege
- Travel, language, culture, and why no one is just a “side character”
- Martin Buber’s I-It vs. I-Thou, Simone Weil on attention, and how to live with radical presence
- And the ultimate plot twist: But you’ll have to listen to hear this one
This episode is both an invitation to live boldly and a gut-check on ego and empathy.
Plus, a beautiful little cameo by some of my friends on what makes them feel like the main characters in their own lives.
Thank you to Annie, Maatai, Claire, Tiaan, and Henry.
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