Becoming a Practical Optimist, Nowruz Celebrations, Great American Novels, A Blind Undocumented Social Worker's Journey
In the aughts, Dr. Sue Varma became the first medical director and attending psychiatrist to the World Trade Center Mental Health Program at NYU Langone Health, treating civilians and first-responders in the aftermath of 9/11. Now, she has a new book that provides tools for navigating life’s challenges with a proactive and constructive approach. In this installment of Mental Health Mondays, Dr. Varma joins us to discuss her book, Practical Optimism: The Art, Science, and Practice of Exceptional Well-Being.
Tomorrow is Nowruz, the Persian New Year! Nasim Alikhani, chef and owner of Sofreh and author of the cookbook, Sofreh: A Contemporary Approach to Classic Persian Cuisine, joins us to discuss how she celebrates the New Year and provide some culinary tips ahead of the holiday. Plus, we take calls!
There are many contenders for the "Great American Novel" -- Moby Dick, The Great Gatsby, To Kill A Mockingbird, Beloved, and more. Last week, The Atlantic attempted to capture the scope of "Great American Novels" of the last hundred years. Senior editor Gal Beckerman joins us to discuss how the 136-book list came together and we take your calls.
As a blind, undocumented immigrant, Pedro faces uncertainty to obtain his college degree, become a social worker, and support his family. We're joined by director Set Hernandez to discuss the documentary, "Unseen," which has its broadcast premiere today on PBS.
*This episode is guest-hosted by Kousha Navidar
