 |
Noggin Notes PodcastAuthor: Jake Wiskerchen
Noggin Notes aims to educate and enrich your noggin about mental illness and wellness. Conversations range from factual and data-based to theoretical and idea-based. We welcome your input at info@nogginnotes.com or info@zephyrwellness.org. Noggin Notes is not intended as a substitute for professional counseling but we really do hope you can adopt and use some of what we share in order to improve your own life and to seek peace and wellness every day. Language: en Genres: Education, Health & Fitness, Mental Health, Self-Improvement Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
Listen Now...
Beyond Labels: Dr. Douglas Novotny on Culture, Psychology, and Human Flourishing
Episode 220
Tuesday, 16 June, 2026
In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Douglas Novotny, a clinical psychologist with more than 25 years of clinical experience and over 15 years of teaching and supervising therapists. Together, we explore a deceptively simple question: What do we mean when we say "culture"? Over time, the meaning of culture has shifted dramatically. Once centered around shared values, traditions, and ways of living, culture is increasingly discussed through categories, identities, and labels. Dr. Novotny examines how these changes influence psychology, education, relationships, and the broader social fabric. In this episode, we discuss: How the definition of culture has evolved over time The difference between person-centered and label-centered thinking Why identity and belonging matter for human flourishing The impact of modern culture debates on psychology and education How communities can foster connection despite differences What "positive-sum thinking" means and why it matters today Drawing from decades of clinical experience, interdisciplinary training, and his work through Your Positive Sum, Dr. Novotny offers a thoughtful perspective on how we can move beyond division and build healthier relationships, stronger communities, and a more constructive public conversation. This episode is for anyone interested in psychology, culture, identity, education, leadership, and the future of human flourishing. Mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety, are real, common and treatable. And recovery is possible. To take your Free Mental Health screening visit https://walkthetalkamerica.org/ or click the following link. TAKE A MENTAL HEALTH TEST We hope you enjoy this episode. Today’s show is brought to you by Audible and Zephyr Wellness. Audible is offering our listeners a free audiobook with a 30-day trial membership. Just go to www.audibletrial.com/9WOGmy and browse the unmatched selection of audio programs – download a title free and start listening.. If you have any questions or request send us a message at info@nogginnotes.com / info@zephyrwellness.org Hope you enjoy the podcast and please go ahead subscribe and give us a review of our show. You can write a review on iTunes.
