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Live A Meaningful Story

All Things Narrative

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Welcome to the Live A Meaningful Story Podcast, where we analyze stories to help us make sense of life. We are four friends with different backgrounds who love watching movies and conversing about their deeper meanings. Each week, we discuss a film, wrestling with how its story, characters, settings, genres, and themes connect to the stories we find ourselves living. We often relate these films to principles found in Narrative Therapy and our Christian faith. Through this podcast, you will g ...
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Do you think it's getting harder to do good deeds in our modern society? Is the world getting worse, or has it always been this bad? In the last part to our 'Lost Justice' series, we analyze the Coen Brothers' thought-provoking film No Country For Old Men. We wrestle with this challenging commentary about the nature of arbitrary violence in our cha…
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"For what does it profit a man to gain the world and forfeit his soul?" (Mark 8:36). For Michael Corleone in THE GODFATHER II, lost justice comes in the form of vengeance. His unwillingness to forgive hardens his heart and turns everyone against him. Based on his tragic downfall, we outline the path to ruin, and how to avoid falling into the same p…
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Why does one pursue power, even if it keeps resulting in tragedy? In our new series on 'Lost Justice', we examine one of the greatest films of all time: THE GODFATHER. We compare and contrast Vito "Don" Corleone with his son Michael, and what their diverging paths say to us about different perceptions of justice. Joining our conversation is acclaim…
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How do we heal and maintain our identities when society tries to dehumanize and reprogram us? In this final episode of our 'Masculinity in the Modern Age' series, we broadcast from the '80's Movies Club in West Palm Beach after a screening of the '80's sci-fi satire ROBOCOP. This story depicts the challenges of a man reclaiming his heart of flesh a…
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How do we regain control over our lives? In this next installment of our 'Masculinity in the Modern Age' series, we propose a way forward for men through the recent film THE HOLDOVERS. As the book of Proverbs says, older men bring wisdom, and younger men bring strength, and film explores this dynamic through the relationship between a strict teache…
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How do we navigate manhood in the 21st Century? In our new series 'Masculinity in the Modern Age', we analyze one of the most talked-about films in the lat 25 years: FIGHT CLUB. This psychological thriller provides us with language to diagnosis the crisis men experience today in our society, while wrestling with ideas from Nietzsche, Jung, and Gira…
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How do people stuck in a broken system find liberation? In this final installment of our 'Power of Myth' series, we analyze Jason's pick, one of the most acclaimed films of all time: ONE FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO'S NEST. Throughout this conversation, we explain how this is a Narrative Therapy film that challenges the 'normalizing gaze', and reveals why …
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Why do we gravitate towards certain kinds of stories? In this next episode of our 'Power of Myth' series, we search for the deeper meaning of TRANSFORMERS. Joseph shares what these robots in disguise mean to him, with their themes of peacemaking, beating the odds, and transformative leadership. We also discuss at length the TRANSFORMERS mythos; alo…
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How do myths of the past speak to our present situations? In this episode of our 'Power of Myth' series, we learn how to accept the adventures life grants us through the A24 film adaptation of the King Arthur tale THE GREEN KNIGHT. Nick shares how Sir Gawain's journey parallels his own, while providing insights from Joseph Campbell's book 'The Powe…
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How do we grow and mature in a world that is trying to mold us into its own image? In this first entry of our 'Power of Myth' series, we discuss at-length one of the most influential stories in the last 150 years: PINOCCHIO. We compare and contrast the book with the 1940’s Disney Classic, and the contemporary stop-motion film by Guillermo Del Toro.…
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How do we renew our sense of purpose when life feels meaningless? How do past and future generations inspire us to embrace our identities more fully? LOGAN, the final film in our fatherhood series, illustrates how family helps us find meaning in the sacrifices we make. We analyze LOGAN through the lens of archetypal storytelling, while providing in…
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When we get older, we often think back to our own parents, trying to make sense of that relationship through our fractured memories. In this emotional episode, we discuss parenting from both ends (as sons and as fathers) through the film AFTERSUN. We get vulnerable sharing about experiences with our fathers, and how this realistic father-daughter s…
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It’s fatherhood month on our podcast! And we’re kicking things off by comparing two iconic depictions of fatherhood in cinema: the classic BICYCLE THIEVES, and the more contemporary PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS. We compare and contrast these relationships between fathers and sons, and how different discourses (expectations, narratives) around fatherhood ma…
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Humanity sure is complicated! And that's exactly what the PLANET OF THE APES prequel trilogy wrestles with, as apes gain consciousness and human-like qualities. We wrestle with the final film of this trilogy, WAR, and how despite its imperfections, it serves as a thought-provoking story about the battle for one's soul. Introduction (0:00) WAR: Us v…
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Humanity sure is complicated! And that's exactly what the PLANET OF THE APES prequel trilogy wrestles with, as apes gain consciousness and human-like qualities. We navigate the different kinds of conflict depicted in these films (particularly in RISE & DAWN), and how as good science fiction, these stories help us think through what it means to be h…
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Are humans evolving into greatness? Or do the limitations of our nature impede progress? We begin our discussion on the PLANET OF THE APES films, starting with the 1968 original. We reflect on what this story means for us in these uncertain times we live in, and how to navigate the paradox that is humankind. Introduction (0:00) Why We Chose PLANET …
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How do we confront the brutality of nature that lies within animals and ourselves? We're diving down the dark rabbit hole that is WATERSHIP DOWN, a so-called "children's" story about colorful topics such as cruelty, tyranny, and the inevitability of your own demise. We have too many laughs trying to discern what this story means, while also discuss…
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How do we continue to do good, even when everything around us is falling apart? In this week's episode, we continue exploring the theme of acceptance through HOWL'S MOVING CASTLE by Studio Ghibli. Featuring an eclectic family made up of a cursed woman, an insecure wizard, a mute scarecrow, and a fire demon, we find at its heart a tale about carryin…
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How does conflict inform how we see ourselves, and who we ultimately become? This week, we dive into the gritty action-war film Fury and wrestle with this family forged by war, and how it informs their sense of identity and purpose. We also discuss several storytelling techniques Fury uses, including save the cat, Biblical symbolism, and the themat…
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Have you ever struggled to let go of the past? If so, then the bittersweet romance in 'Past Lives' might resonate with you. As we analyze this film, we'll share how everything from the Beatles song "In My Life" to the concept of Re-Authoring can help us live more fully in the moment. Introduction (0:00) Why We Chose 'Past Lives' (1:26) 'Past Lives'…
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Whoever controls the narrative can shape reality to how they see fit. In our analysis of the newly released 'Dune Part Two', we confront the beauties and horrors of storytelling. You'll also learn how 'Dune' embodies a Narrative Therapy perspective on identity, confront the dark side of religion, and explore the various archetypes within Paul Atrei…
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Dreams are messages from the deep; but where will our dreams ultimately take us? In this episode, we begin our deep dive into all things 'Dune', including an analysis of the 2021 film. We explore this cautionary tale through the lenses of identity and destiny, incorporating insights from Jonathan Gottschall's book The Storytelling Animal. Introduct…
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In our first bonus episode, we share an outtake from our Star Wars conversation regarding Joseph Campbell's "Atonement with the Father" stage, and how it connects with both Return of the Jedi and Derrick's healing with his own father. Stay up to date with our movie club, and see which films we'll cover in the future. All Things Narrative exists to …
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How do we break free from autopilot? We wrestle with this question by exploring the temptation to outsource to technology, as seen in both 'Wall-E' and '2001 Space Odyssey'. And Jason shares his journey of breaking free through cultivating curiosity and wonder in his life. Introduction (0:00) Defining a “Jason Movie”: Becoming an Active Protagonist…
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How is connection the key to human flourishing? The film Wall-E explores the relationships between humanity, technology, the earth, and what happens when things go awry. Jason leads us in a conversation about Wall-E that traverses dystopias, identity, and the Narrative Practice of Re-Membering, so we can find ways to connect that help us flourish. …
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How do the fears and traumas we've experienced affect the way we live? Joseph shares his story, and how it mirrors many of the fears and traumas portrayed in the Avengers films. We also share some insights from neuroscience about traumatic narratives in the brain, and working with kids who have experienced trauma. Introduction (0:00) Defining a "Jo…
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How does the struggle to control manifest in your life? In 'Avengers Age of Ultron', this desire to control is evident in Tony Stark, as the layers of his psyche unravel through the personas of Iron Man, Ultron, and Vision. Through this film, Joseph shows how Stark's journey can help us avoid falling into the trap of the God-complex. Introduction (…
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What do we do when we feel disconnected with our identity and relationships? In this episode, we share insights about how to reconnect with ourselves, nature, other people, and God. Along the way, Nick gets personal with his story, and how he sees it in relation to the film Stranger Than Paradise. We also explore the power of connection through Ric…
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Have you ever felt stuck in life? In this conversation, Nick leads us through the Criterion classic Stranger Than Paradise, and its realistic portrayal of loneliness and longing. Throughout the discussion, we'll share ways to break out of the monotony of life through re-authoring, and embarking on new calls to adventure. Introduction (0:00) Why We …
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The search for meaning is an inevitable part of what it means to be human. It is through this search that we learn how to better navigate life day by day. And that's what we explore through the work of Viktor Frankl and the Narrative Therapy Practice of externalizing problems. We show how these and other elements help unravel the Star Wars narrativ…
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Everyone has an origin story that illustrates who they are, where they come from, and why they're here. In our debut episode, we explore the origin story as a concept through Star Wars: A New Hope. Derrick then shares how this film (and George Lucas' journey of making it) inspired his passion for storytelling. Along the way, we discuss how to craft…
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Welcome to the Live A Meaningful Story Podcast, where we learn how to navigate life, one film at a time. We are four friends with different backgrounds who love watching movies and discussing what they mean to us. Each week, we analyze a film, wrestling with how its story, characters, settings, genres, and themes connect to the stories we find ours…
  continue reading
 
How does each genre of story speak to our lives? In our season finale, we review all the genres we've covered this year and how they can help us see our stories in meaningful ways. Plus, Derrick gives some important announcements regarding the future of the podcast in 2024, including changes to the format and name! Introduction + New Changes Coming…
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Companionship, grief, work, parenting, coming of age. Sometimes, we just need stories that remind us of what it means to be human. And for our final entry in our genre series, we focus on those kinds of Slice of Life stories. These films and shows fluctuate between the comedies and dramas of life, causing us to wrestle with what it all means. And f…
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When two Jewish immigrants published a story in 1938 about a Superman, they birthed something that would take the 21st Century by storm: the superhero genre. And now 85 years later, many argue that the genre is running out of steam. We investigate how superheroes stay alive by blending with other genres, while wrestling with what this genre means f…
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When things aren't black or white, we live life in the gray. On this special episode, Derrick reunites with Luther Menard, his former co-host from the 'Life in the Gray' podcast. While listening to old clips from the show, they reflect on their journeys of deconstructing ideas about God, church, and culture in a public manner. This conversation als…
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Why are we so drawn to things that scare us? What are the ethical ramifications of creating and consuming horrific stories? In this Halloween special, we continue our genre series by diving into the evils and hells of Horror. We discuss stories about the monsters we face in life, and the dangers of the monsters we might become. Along the way, we wr…
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How do works of philosophy, personal development, psychology, history, theology, and biographies improve our life stories? In this sequel to our Why We Love Fiction episode, we discuss the ways non-fiction both affirms and challenges our beliefs, with examples from works in the Great Books Cannon of Western Civilization. Derrick also shares recomme…
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How do we find our values in a lawless society? What is the narrative of what we call 'The West'? In this installment of our genre series, we explore the rugged terrains of the Western genre. For our discussion, each of us picks a Western film that helps us understand why this genre resonates with so many people, and what it has to say about how we…
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Have you ever told yourself a story, or held a belief, that limited what you could do? In this episode, transformational coach Caroline Rena helps us explore the relationships between narratives and our own beings. Our conversation takes us on a journey through Jungian archetypes, generational differences, and the super power of being an empath. In…
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Why should you bother giving your precious time to reading long-form novels about things that never really happened? In this episode, we discuss how fiction contains Truth that can help you become a more empathetic person, better understand your cultural context, and ultimately wrestle with what it means to be human. Introduction (0:00) The Art of …
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Have you ever thought less of yourself when comparing yourself with others? How do we find significance outside of what we do? Joining us today is dear friend, author, and founder of The Hood Library, Thomas Wilson III. Thomas discusses the release of his first book Who Wants To Be Famous? as a modern day parable written for today's youth. We exami…
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How do we select and interpret the narratives we call History? What is our relationship with that History via storytelling? Derrick's wife Tori joins us for an informative discussion on the nature of history, and how that's reflected through various film genres including political epics, war, biopics, and even historical fiction. Introduction (0:00…
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How do we find our place in an ever-changing world? In this entry of our genre series, the guys return to discuss Science Fiction. While these stories may warn us about the threats of technology and aliens, Sci-Fi at its heart is about exploring what it means to be human. Join us for a lively conversation as we prob our favorite Science Fiction nar…
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We love taking control of our lives! But what happens when life throws us curveballs? How do we continue to pursue what we love even when things happen outside of our control? Joining us is below fellow podcaster and entrepreneur Jeremy Norfus. As we discuss his story, we navigate the tension between pursuing what we want and doing what needs to be…
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Why are we so drawn to Fantasy lands and larger-than-life characters? How can Fantasy stories help us better engage with our world? Derrick is joined by the return of Joseph, Jason, and Nick to take a deep dive into the Fantasy genre using JRR Tolkien as our guide. We also discuss our recent experiences at Mega Con Orlando. Introduction (0:00) Defi…
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How will your story be remembered? What will you leave behind for the next generation? Today, we discuss legacy, and how it allows us to take an active role in shaping our future. We explore legacy from all different angles, including letters from deceased loved ones, the book of Ecclesiastes, Frank Miller’s The Dark Knight Returns, and the contras…
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Why are we drawn to heart-bounding adventurous and perilous journeys? Proverb Newsome joins us to explore Action stories, and how they challenge us to face our conflicts courageously. We discuss some of our favorite Action films, including 2022's hit Top Gun Maverick, and how going to college relates to the Hero’s Journey. Introduction (0:00) Defin…
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Joining us this week is clinical social worker and family psychotherapist Keren Gonzalez. Along with Keren's story, we discuss various Narrative Therapy concepts (externalizing, re-authoring, absent but implicit, etc.) and how they connect with Keren's practice and passion as a mental health advocate. Keren Gonzalez graduated from Florida Atlantic …
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You ever had an experience with a story that stirred something profound within you? Though most stories explore one's inner-life, there is an often neglected category of stories that specialize in the metaphysical. These journeys examine the philosophical, religious, and spiritual components that reshape our identity and make life meaningful. Jason…
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