In today’s deeply reflective episode, we explore the emotional and ideological battleground often referred to as the “culture wars.”Host and Foundation Executive Toufic Hakim, PhD, and guest Guthrie Sayan, PhD—scholar, coach, and founder of the Institute of Healing and Awakening—delve into the psychological and spiritual dynamics fueling the tensions across society.

Drawing from the Spiral Dynamics model, Guthrie unpacks how differing value systems—traditional, modern, and progressive—clash and misunderstand one another, each believing it holds the singular truth. Together, they ask: How can we engage with those who see the world differently without losing ourselves? What does it take to shift from reaction to response, from fear to compassion?

This episode offers a nuanced framework for understanding today’s cultural climate, along with practical wisdom on navigating anger, uncertainty, and disconnection. It invites listeners into a place of humility, empathy, and self-reflection—with the goal of building bridges rather than bunkers.