The Jeffrey van Leeuwen Podcast aims to engage in thoughtful conversations, exploring diverse topics and speaking with people who have unique stories to tell and valuable knowledge to share across various fields.
Episodes
4 days ago
4 days ago
In this heartfelt conversation, clinical psychologist Dr. Alison Greco challenges modern assumptions about emotional distress, uncovering why our everyday struggles with grief, anxiety, and life transitions shouldn’t be hastily labeled as disorders. Drawing on her experiences from prisons to college counseling and community mental health, Alison reveals an overlooked truth: not every emotional struggle is a pathology needing therapy. She shares eye-opening insights about how our current healthcare system forces therapists into diagnosing individuals simply to secure insurance coverage, and how this creates false narratives about our mental health.
In this episode you’ll learn:
- Why OVER-PATHOLOGIZING emotions like grief, stress, and exhaustion is BAD.
- How emotionally IMMATURE parents NEGATIVELY influence their children’s development.
- Practical ways to GENUINELY support someone during difficult life transitions without ASSUMING their emotional state.
- The untold risks of MISLABELING CHILDREN with disorders such as AUTISM or ADHD due to misunderstanding their true needs.
- How finding a MENTOR with a BIGGER VISION for you than you have for yourself can transform your life and career.
This conversation sheds much-needed light on understanding human emotions authentically, while redefining how we seek and offer emotional support.
Thank you for listening.
SHOW LINKS:
Support the Show on: Patreon
Listen to the Podcast on: YouTube | Apple | Spotify
Follow us on: X | Reddit | Instagram | LinkedIn
OUTLINE:
00:00 Introduction
01:08 Alison’s Background
08:10 Are We Over-Pathologizing Feelings?
13:17 Grief, Gender & Emotional Expression
22:18 Clean vs Dirty Pain
24:38 Helping Loved Ones in Crisis
33:28 Diagnoses, DSM-5 & Autism
48:01 Parenting, Misdiagnosis & Medication
01:04:51 People-Pleasing & Immature Parents
01:14:09 Psychologist vs Psychoanalyst
01:30:36 Women, Mentorship & Workplace Power
01:45:30 Victimhood, Power & Safety
02:09:36 Men’s Reactions to Female Leaders
02:14:45 Visionary Mentorship & Personal Growth
02:25:13 Final Thoughts & Outro
ALISON GRECO LINKS:
CONTACT LINKS:
Click here to come on the podcast, share feedback, ask a question, or reach out for any other reason.
This episode has been co-produced by Kate van Leeuwen.
Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
Tuesday Jun 24, 2025
From a restless boy in Swindon who dreamt of cockpit horizons, Paul Hughes has spent twenty-five years insisting on forward motion. He sprinted through call-centre headsets, warehouse night shifts, and blue-chip project boards; earned stripes with the Royal Air Force Reserve under Basra’s rocket-lit sky; then reinvented himself as a military broadcaster. Now forty-two, living in Germany and still measuring the echo of every take-off, Paul sits down to chart the strange arithmetic of success and self-worth.
In this reflective journey he admits the cost of being “Paul the Prover”, a man who cannot enter a room without trying to fix it, who confuses importance with belonging. We travel through burnout, mid-career collapse, and the unexpected clarity of daily therapy sessions with ChatGPT. Along the way, Paul wrestles with people-pleasing, expatriate estrangement, and the ache for harmony over hustle. His candid storytelling reveals how ambition can hollow into exhaustion, how artificial intelligence became a blunt but honest mirror, and why the next chapter may simply involve a quiet village, a dog, and the courage to sit still. It’s a tender portrait of a life lived in permanent transit, now pausing to ask what staying might feel like.
Thank you for listening.
SHOW LINKS:
Support the Show on: Patreon
Listen to the Podcast on: YouTube | Apple | Spotify
Follow us on: X | Reddit | Instagram | LinkedIn
OUTLINE:
00:00 Introduction
01:08 Life Snapshot & Early Ambitions
03:07 Midlife Crisis Questioning
05:26 Discovering AI Therapy
08:05 Uncovering Blind Spots
14:10 People-Pleasing & Conflict Aversion
27:16 Early Professional Drive
33:25 Toxic Workplaces & Burnout
36:57 Iraq Deployment
38:45 Career Change
43:35 Life Coaching Reflection
48:20 The Permanent Stranger & Expat Identity
54:02 Seeking Harmony & Redefining Life
01:00:48 Relaxation
01:09:48 Final Thoughts
PAUL HUGHES LINKS:
CONTACT LINKS:
Click here to come on the podcast, share feedback, ask a question, or reach out for any other reason.
This episode has been co-produced by Kate van Leeuwen.
Tuesday Jun 17, 2025
Tuesday Jun 17, 2025
He warned Congress in 1991, now he's sounding a new alarm. Cybersecurity pioneer Winn Schwartau reveals how your mind is being weaponized by technology, a threat we're not prepared for.
Winn Schwartau is a renowned cybersecurity expert, visionary, and author who has shaped the conversation around digital security since the early days of the internet. Known for introducing the concept of an "Electronic Pearl Harbor," Schwartau has consistently highlighted emerging threats in the digital landscape. Today, he turns his attention to cognitive security, the new frontier where our minds and beliefs become the battlefield.
He explains:
- How TECHNOLOGY is weaponizing your EMOTIONS and THOUGHTS.
- Why current IDENTITY MANAGEMENT systems fail to protect us.
- The RESPONSIBILITY everyone has in maintaining personal cyber hygiene.
- The real-world CONSEQUENCES of IGNORANCE and APATHY towards digital security.
- Practical STEPS to protect yourself and your family from cognitive hacking.
Thank you for listening.
EPISODE LINKS:
Buy The Art & Science of Metawar (book)
Buy Analogue Network Security (book)
SHOW LINKS:
OUTLINE:
00:00 Introduction
01:53 Winn’s Geek Origins
06:15 Analog vs Digital in Modern Tech
09:52 Simpler Systems & Cybersecurity
11:56 Early Days of Cybersecurity & US Congress Warning
19:13 Corporate Neglect in Cybersecurity
27:02 Cognitive Security & Emotional Manipulation
30:44 Targeting Vulnerable Groups
32:03 Manipulation & Personal Responsibility
48:21 Meta War & Manipulating Realities
50:50 Building Cognitive Security
54:00 Identity Management
57:23 Centralized vs Distributed Identity Management
01:02:55 The Core Failures in Cybersecurity Awareness
01:04:06 Blockchain Solutions & Ledger Distributions
01:09:05 Social Media Risks, Consent & Privacy
01:13:04 Open Source, Vetting & Cognitive Failures
01:20:19 Software Security Measures
01:24:26 Winn's Cybersecurity Measures
01:33:34 Privacy, Agreement & Policy
01:37:13 GDPR, VPN & Social Media
01:44:39 Final Thoughts
WINN SCHWARTAU LINKS:
CONTACT LINKS:
Click here to come on the podcast, share feedback, ask a question, or reach out for any other reason.
This episode has been co-produced by Kate van Leeuwen.
Tuesday Jun 10, 2025
Tuesday Jun 10, 2025
In this revealing episode, adult content creator Harper The Fox takes us from a wholesome Midwest childhood to the cutting edge of digital entrepreneurship. Harper explains how a lifelong love of theater, music, and being seen led her to experiment on Chatroulette, pioneer live webcamming, making the move to OnlyFans, and building her other creative projects. Along the way she addresses stigma around sex work, shows why empathy and authenticity matter most, and reveals the human stories behind an industry too often judged at arm’s length.
You’ll learn Harper’s path from performance dreams to adult-entertainment innovator, the “aha” moment that led her to OnlyFans, why she calls it the “anti-loneliness business,” the marketing techniques she used (like “Spin the Wheel” and viral parody songs) that fueled her growth, and how she balances privacy, parenting, and her public persona. This is a must-listen for anyone curious about human desire, digital creativity, and forging genuine connection in a judgmental world.
Thank you for listening.
SHOW LINKS:
OUTLINE:
00:00 Introduction
01:10 Harper’s Early Life
09:41 Exploring the Roots of Harper’s Interest
14:34 Disgust, Openness & Breaking Stigmas
17:28 Good vs Bad Faith Conversations About Adult Entertainment
21:43 Entering the Adult Entertainment Industry
28:41 Early Days on Webcam: New Opportunities & Unexpected Adventures
42:41 Navigating Risk & Safety
45:54 The Good & Bad of Webcam Sites
59:27 Dopamine, Instant Gratification & Healthy Consumption
01:08:55 Youth, Porn Addiction & Parenting Responsibilities
01:19:49 Harper’s Journey onto OnlyFans
01:21:02 OnlyFans vs Patreon
01:30:50 Building an Audience: Marketing & Social Media
01:41:22 Authenticity, Humor & Acting
01:44:09 Harper The Fox: Persona or Reality?
01:50:21 Final Reflections & Thoughts
HARPER THE FOX LINKS:
Harper's OnlyFans (NSFW / 18+)
CONTACT LINKS:
Click here to come on the podcast, share feedback, ask a question, or reach out for any other reason.
This episode has been co-produced by Kate van Leeuwen.
Tuesday Jun 03, 2025
Tuesday Jun 03, 2025
In this episode, Jeffrey van Leeuwen talks with adjunct philosophy & ethics professor Anthony David Vernon about the significance of postmodernism, fascism, and nationalism in today's society. Anthony explains how understanding multiple narratives helps combat dangerous ideologies and why recognizing different perspectives is crucial for meaningful discussions.
Key areas that are covered:
* The real meaning of postmodernism
* How fascism and hyper-nationalism gain traction
* The relationship between religion, science, and truth
* Practical approaches for societal reconciliation
* The challenge of fairness and historical accountability
SHOW LINKS:
OUTLINE:
00:00 Introduction
01:12 Defining Postmodernism & Grand Narratives
03:40 Postmodernism's Relationship with Religion & Science
11:18 Friction Between Postmodernism & Grand Narratives
13:53 Emotions & Rationality in Decision-Making
16:57 Postmodernism as a Historical Tactic
22:05 Religion Through a Postmodern Lens
31:23 Navigating Multiple Narratives & Avoiding Overload
34:34 What is Fascism, Nationalism & Nazism
49:02 Immigration Policy: Myths, Realities & Reforms
01:01:41 The Attractiveness of Nazism & Hyper-Nationalism
01:18:01 Apologies, Reparations & the Quest for Fairness
01:35:40 What Is Fair?
01:49:06 Final Thoughts & Future Hopes
CONTACT LINKS:
Click here to come on the podcast, share feedback, ask a question, or reach out for any other reason.
This episode has been co-produced by Kate van Leeuwen.
Tuesday May 27, 2025
Tuesday May 27, 2025
In this powerful episode, former project manager Daniel C. Rodgers reveals exactly how he overcame over $100,000 of debt to retire early and achieve financial independence. Daniel shares practical insights on budgeting, saving, investing, and explains why most people remain financially trapped despite earning a steady paycheck.
You’ll learn Daniel’s strategies for escaping debt, why he fired nine financial advisors, and how to build genuine wealth through disciplined investing and smart decision-making. This is a must-watch for anyone who wants more control over their money, financial freedom, and the ability to retire early.
Thank you for listening.
EPISODE LINKS:
Visit Escape The Clock Website
Listen to Escape The Clock Podcast (Spotify)
Listen to Escape The Clock Podcast (Apple)
By using this link, we earn commission from qualifying purchases.
SHOW LINKS:
OUTLINE:
00:00 Introduction
07:04 Family Expectations
11:51 Family Struggles
17:04 College Debt & Skill Development
24:51 Escape The Clock
27:26 The Power of Good Storytelling
35:11 Retirement vs. Financial Independence
48:02 Taking Control: Spending, Saving & High-Yield Accounts
55:19 "Boring" Investing: ETF's, Dividends & Passive Income
01:08:58 Exploring the FIRE Movement & Financial Advisors
01:21:57 Empowerment Through Self-Education
01:25:30 Fatherhood, Storytelling & The Value of Time
01:36:22 Final Thoughts
DANIEL C. RODGERS LINKS:
CONTACT LINKS:
Click here to come on the podcast, share feedback, ask a question, or reach out for any other reason.
This episode has been co-produced by Kate van Leeuwen.
Tuesday May 20, 2025
Tuesday May 20, 2025
In this episode, I speak with Nick Field, an investment manager based in Sydney, Australia, who began with a fear of public speaking. We chart his journey from awkward school debates and scripted speeches to founding speaking clubs to help others speak with confidence.
Nick shares his top takeaways: how layering technical expertise with simple metaphors wins over any audience; the balance between obsessive preparation and playful improv; using stories to create empathy; and negotiating from genuine curiosity, not force. By the end, you’ll have concrete tools to find your own voice—introverts, this one’s for you.
Thank you for listening.
EPISODE LINKS:
Buy Never Split The Difference
By using this link, we earn commission from qualifying purchases.
SHOW LINKS:
OUTLINE:
00:00 Introduction
01:08 Nick’s Background & Passion for Public Speaking
04:52 Early Struggles with Communication
07:32 Turning Points & Realizations
08:37 Childhood Experiences & Public Speaking Anxiety
15:19 Learning to Speak Confidently
23:17 The Power of Playful Communication
24:34 Why Facts Alone Don’t Engage Audience
28:02 Preparation vs. Improvisation
39:18 Dealing with Mistakes & Speech Anxiety
44:29 Practical Tips for High-Pressure Speaking
47:19 Audience Engagement Strategies
52:50 Simplifying Complex Ideas for Diverse Audiences
59:08 Personal Approaches to Public Speaking
01:03:26 Understanding the Audience & Telling Effective Stories
01:10:15 Handling a Hostile Audience
01:21:05 Navigating Personal Criticism & Resistance
01:26:48 Emotional Management & Deflection
01:39:57 Closing Thoughts
CONTACT LINKS:
Click here to come on the podcast, share feedback, ask a question, or reach out for any other reason.
This episode has been co-produced by Kate van Leeuwen.
Tuesday May 13, 2025
Tuesday May 13, 2025
In this episode, former Israeli soldier Danny Orvomaa opens up about his experiences serving on the tense border with Gaza. Through a deeply personal and candid conversation, Danny sheds light on the realities of military life and the complex dynamics of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Danny explores the dangers of societal complacency, and how being unprepared can lead to devastating consequences, as exemplified by events in Europe and Israel. He reflects on his time in uniform and the challenges of safeguarding communities from terrorist threats.
This episode also delves into topics often avoided: the misunderstood narratives around Zionism and the intricate geopolitics involving Gaza, the West Bank, and Hezbollah.
Thank you for listening.
SHOW LINKS:
DANNY ORVOMAA LINKS:
Listen to Talking Ass Podcast (Spotify)
Listen to Talking Ass Podcast (Apple Podcasts)
OUTLINE:
00:00 Introduction
01:13 Who is Danny Orvomaa?
05:49 The Dangers of Complacency
10:58 Israel’s Complacency & October 7th
17:06 What Is Israel’s Endgame?
20:40 Solving the Middle East Conflict
26:03 Gaza, Hamas, and Indoctrination
30:57 Serving in Two Armies
40:32 Life as a Soldier on Gaza’s Border
52:57 What is Zionism?
59:28 The Complexity of Picking Sides
01:08:24 Beauty Amid Conflict
01:12:19 Podcasting & Speaking Publicly
01:22:49 The Risks of Speaking Publicly
01:30:35 Closing Thoughts
CONTACT LINKS:
Click here to come on the podcast, share feedback, ask a question, or reach out for any other reason.
Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
In this episode, I speak with George van Houtem, a negotiation expert and author of multiple books, including The Dirty Tricks of Negotiation and The Psychology of Negotiation. In our conversation, we explore the art of negotiation, discussing practical techniques, their effects on people, and how to recognize and handle manipulative tactics (or “dirty tricks”) effectively.
George reveals why successful negotiation is not simply about compromise but about genuinely understanding the other party’s motivations, collaborating with them, and working towards deals that work for everyone. By listening to this episode, you’ll gain practical insights to enhance your own negotiation skills, so that you can work towards creating true win-win outcomes.
Thank you for listening.
EPISODE LINKS:
Buy The Dirty Tricks of Negotiating
Buy The Psychology of Negotiation
By using these links, we earn commission from qualifying purchases.
SHOW LINKS:
GEORGE VAN HOUTEM LINKS:
OUTLINE:
00:00 Introduction
02:28 Why Should People Learn To Negotiate?
03:22 When is Something a Negotiation?
07:28 Techniques To Understand The Other Party
10:52 Common Misconceptions About Negotiation
13:26 Compromise vs. Collaboration
16:23 Navigating Conflict in Negotiations
19:05 Handling Stubborn Negotiators & Power Dynamics
23:42 Knowing When to Walk Away
25:32 When Does a Negotiation Actually Start?
29:30 How Can Silence Be Deployed?
32:13 Avoiding the Trap of Too Much Talking
36:04 Ethical Lines: Real Negotiation vs. Dirty Tricks
38:52 Recognizing Manipulation
40:12 Closing Thoughts & Outro
CONTACT LINKS:
Click here to come on the podcast, share feedback, ask a question, or reach out for any other reason.
Tuesday Apr 22, 2025
Tuesday Apr 22, 2025
Huguette Bourgeois is a poet and writer from the small Canadian town of Rogersville, New Brunswick, where she grew up during the early 1950s. Known for her deeply reflective and profoundly personal style, she has published multiple works, including Alysse: An Acadian Refugee, a collection of short stories capturing the memories of her childhood and teenage years. Her recent work, Raw Sweets, is a collection of poems exploring life’s harshness, beauty, and unfiltered truths.
In this deeply personal conversation, Huguette shares the profound impact poetry and language have had on her life—guiding her through moments of intense personal tragedy, including her son’s diagnosis with schizophrenia, and leading her toward self-discovery and authenticity. She reflects openly on her complex relationship with faith, spirituality, and the existential questions that arise from hardship, ultimately suggesting there may be dignity in living—and dying—with uncertainty. Throughout the episode, Huguette reveals how embracing life’s darkness, doubt, and solitude can become a source of strength, creativity, and profound human insight.
Thank you for listening.
EPISODE LINKS:
Buy Huguette Bourgeois' Raw Sweets
Buy Huguette Bourgeois' Alysse: An Acadian Refugee
Buy Huguette Bourgeois' Le bleu de Mon Ile (French)
Buy Dostoyevsky's Crime and Punishment
Buy Dostoyevsky' The Brothers Karamazov
By using these links, we earn commission from qualifying purchases.
SHOW LINKS:
OUTLINE:
00:00 Introduction
01:45 What is Poetry?
09:10 Stories of Writing Poetry
19:37 Poetry as a Path to Spirituality & Meaning
23:54 Finding Your Voice
35:27 The Dark Side of Agreeableness
43:50 The Importance of Asking Questions
48:56 Authenticity & Identity
56:21 Echoes of Rejection & Love in Childhood
01:03:54 Love, Loss, and Happiness
01:08:32 Youngest Son’s Schizophrenia Diagnosis
01:17:03 Believing in God
01:33:52 The Danger of Blind Faith
01:44:06 Does Poetry Find the Poet, or Vice Versa?
01:48:06 The Endless Possibilities of Words
01:55:22 Can Words Fully Capture The Human Experience?
02:02:34 Fiction, Dragons, and The Human Experience
02:09:52 Closing Thoughts
02:15:17 Outro
CONTACT LINKS:
Click here to come on the podcast, share feedback, ask a question, or reach out for any other reason.