In this episode, Wendy speaks with biological anthropologist and contemplative researcher Jenny Mascaro. Jenny's work weaves together meditation, compassion, psychology, and healthcare, and moves us toward a deeper understanding of interconnectedness. This conversation covers many topics, including:
her interest in social cognition in animals - and humans;
what compassion is, and how it's different from empathy;
biological basis of compassion, and the role of oxytocin;
how social factors and context shape compassion;
training compassion and the skills underlying it;
understanding self-compassion;
the under-appreciated role of hospital chaplains;
compassion training for chaplains;
preparing for interpersonal interactions;
how compassion shows up in language;
how compassionate care can help anxiety and depression;
responding to healthcare provider stress;
how meditation has changed her;
and building awareness of interdependence.

Full show notes and resources