My Philosophy Workshops apply philosophical wisdom from the world's greatest thinkers to practical issues in everyday life. Find discovery, connection and community with others, guided by my doctoral training and 15 years of teaching experience.
Upcoming Workshops
Regular registration: $45
Early bird: $39 by October 24
Thursdays, January 10, 17, 24, 31; 7-9pm
Location TBA
In collaboration with the Portland Underground Graduate School
What does it mean to make a person? This is perhaps one of the most profound philosophical questions there is, and yet it is largely absent in the cultural conversation around motherhood. This course brings deep reflection to this life-altering transition to motherhood and the creation of a new human being.
When a new person enters the world, there are at least two births: one of the child, and one of the mother. Mom groups and classes typically cover how-to logistical issues like how to swaddle a baby or how to manage difficult behavior in your child. But there are deep psychological, emotional, and philosophical issues around becoming and being a mother that deserve more of our attention—questions like: What is lost and gained in the transition to motherhood? What are the cultural messages around being a good mom or bad mom? What does it mean to create a new human consciousness? The Meaning of Motherhood explores these complex philosophical questions with compassion, openness, and intellectual curiosity.
You do not need to be a mother to take this course. Although it may be particularly poignant for those who are about to become, or who have already become mothers, it will be illuminating for anyone who wants to better understand the emotional, psychological, and philosophical complexities of motherhood, including fathers, partners, and perinatal professionals. It is also not just for biological birth mothers, as there are many paths to motherhood. During the course, we will be likely discussing some physical components of pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum experience that impacts many moms, while also understanding that this is not everyone's experience.
Saturdays, January 12, 19, 26, 2019, 1:00-3:30 p.m.
World Cup Coffee, 1740 NW Glisan St., Portland, OR (side room).
In collaboration with Curious Soul Philosophy.
Taoism is the ancient Chinese study of the Tao or "the way." In this modern world full of machinery, digital overload, consumer culture, and frantic schedules, many of us can feel like we are constantly swimming upstream. Taoism is the ultimate philosophy of letting go and getting into the flow. The Taoist term wu wei means "doing without doing" – acting so that your actions feel effortless and natural, like a boat floating gently downstream. It teaches the value of simplicity, receptivity, and the wisdom of the natural world.
In this workshop, we'll discuss some of the basic ideas in Taoism and then we'll read and discuss the entirety of the Tao Te Ching. Part poetry, part philosophical treatise, this Taoist classic is a text full of sage teachings that you can read again and again. We'll work together to interpret the sometimes enigmatic and paradoxical verses to reveal the ancient wisdom hidden within.
Additional Services
For Individuals
One-on-One Philosophical Coaching
Get individually tailored philosophical guidance from a professional philosopher to help you think clearly, choose wisely, and live purposefully. Philosophical Coaching is like a cross between counseling and life coaching, from an expert in philosophy. We will deeply investigate your fundamental beliefs about yourself and your world, to make you feel centered, powerful, and wise.
ONE-On-One Philosophy Classes
Study philosophy one-on-one with an expert. Work with me to develop an individual course of study specifically tailored to your individual interests, needs, and passions.
Editing
Create, clarify, and polish your writing. Whether your project is a blog post or a dissertation, receive guidance on how to make your writing strong and effective.
For Organizations
philosophical consulting
Propel your business or organization forward. Use rational analysis and inquiry to gain clarity on who you are, what you do, and where you are going.
Ethics Workshops
Build, refine, or revise ethical codes, and learn to create a culture of ethical consciousness and compliance in your business or organization.
