Two articulate researchers discuss fascinating brain scan studies that show how blood flow to specific parts of the brain changes when we are more or less controlling, are overloaded with mental static, feel agitated, or see ourselves as separated from others. The tasteful urgency in Fred Stella's performance fits this groundbreaking research; his phrasing and vocal quality are unfailing throughout this audio. The authors show how practices like meditation not only change blood flow in the moment but also create longer-lasting brain connections that can alter our habitual approaches to many aspects of life. By making the neurological underpinnings of mental states so concrete, and drawing on so many cultures for examples, they provide enough anchors to give this audio both familiarity and excitement from start to finish.
Pub Date: Jan. 22, 2016
Duration: 6 hrs, 45 mins
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Kuin's study of the ancient Greek cynic who made philosophy a performance art is comfortably supported by Cassandra Campbell's easygoing performance, which carries the listener through the text's occasional repetition and lack of focus. While Campbell's pleasant voice and manner don't always match up with Diogenes' persona as a transgressive maverick, that doesn't undermine her capacity to understand and convey the book's ideas about Diogenes and his later influence, even when they're obscure or challenging. Unfortunately, in contrast with her careful pronunciation of Greek terms, a handful of prominent mispronunciations suggests a lack of editorial support. Overall, Campbell's amiable, discerning performance ably presents this often-insightful study of a philosophic original.
Pub Date: Nov. 11, 2025
Duration: 8 hrs, 15 mins
DD ISBN: 9781668656402
Publisher: Hachette Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
Angela Buchdahl, senior rabbi at one of the most influential Reform synagogues in the country, tells her story with the same energetic, approachable delivery she employs in her public speaking. Her path to the rabbinate was anything but usual; Buchdahl was born in Seoul, South Korea, to an Asian Buddhist mother and a white Jewish father. Each biographical chapter of the audiobook ends with a related teaching from a Jewish text that introduces listeners to Jewish history and beliefs. The Hamas attack on Israel on October 7, 2023, is addressed, although her thoughts have evolved since writing this book. Ordained a cantor before becoming a rabbi, Buchdahl intersperses music from Jewish tradition, and her lovely singing voice is a special treat in this outstanding production.
Pub Date: Oct. 21, 2025
Duration: 10 hrs, 30 mins
DD ISBN: 9798217163793
Publisher: Penguin Audio
Review Posted Online: Jan. 22, 2026
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