In this episode of Meaning vs. Merit, Dr. Maria-Christina Stewart sits down with Dr. Julia Colangelo, our expert in the science of Flow. They unpack what flow really is (hint: it’s not just being "in the zone") and how it can help you break free from achievement culture, reclaim creativity, and tap into a state of deep focus and meaning—even in hard times.
Dr. Julia shares tangible strategies to activate flow, explains how to use it sustainably (without needing a 10-hour silent retreat), and offers insight on how to access it during moments of stress, stagnation, and uncertainty. If you're tired of chasing success while feeling increasingly disconnected from yourself, this conversation is your invitation to try a better way.
Chapters:
00:00 - Welcome to Meaning vs. Merit
01:00 - Meet Dr. Julia Colangelo
02:30 - Julia's Journey from Burnout to Flow
05:00 - What Is Flow, Really?
08:00 - Flow vs. Peak Performance: They’re Not the Same
11:00 - Flow in a World of Distraction
14:00 - How to Schedule Flow Like a Busy Person
18:00 - Flow Activators: Walking, Music, Food, and Eccentric Habits
22:00 - Flow During Crisis: Recession, Elections & Natural Disasters
27:00 - How to Learn More About Flow with Dr. Julia
29:00 - Wrap Up & Reflection
Selected Quotes:
- "Flow is a current, not a peak. If you chase peak performance every day, you will burn out." — Dr. Julia Colangelo
- "Flow doesn’t require five hours a day. One focused afternoon a week can move the needle." — Dr. Julia Colangelo
- "Your flow state is part of you. It’s a renewable resource, even in hard times." — Dr. Julia Colangelo
- "I used to think I had to earn rest. Now I know rest is how I access flow." — Dr. Julia Colangelo
- "Flow helps us reclaim creativity and productivity without the pressure to be exceptional all the time." — Dr. Maria-Christina Stewart
More from Dr. Julia:
Website: https://www.drjuliacolangelo.com/
Flow Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/flow/id1688023575?i=1000697418067
Popular Podcasts
Are You A Charlotte?
In 1997, actress Kristin Davis’ life was forever changed when she took on the role of Charlotte York in Sex and the City. As we watched Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte navigate relationships in NYC, the show helped push once unacceptable conversation topics out of the shadows and altered the narrative around women and sex. We all saw ourselves in them as they searched for fulfillment in life, sex and friendships. Now, Kristin Davis wants to connect with you, the fans, and share untold stories and all the behind the scenes. Together, with Kristin and special guests, what will begin with Sex and the City will evolve into talks about themes that are still so relevant today. "Are you a Charlotte?" is much more than just rewatching this beloved show, it brings the past and the present together as we talk with heart, humor and of course some optimism.
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.