You can learn more about Mark and his many interests by visiting his website by clicking the link here.

Business is the adult version of the neighborhood playground and Mark’s book at its core is a discussion about how we interact in the business sandbox with all of these colorful characters.  You see…the playground is as it always has been, undeniably and overwhelmingly human–and none of us can change the underlying nature of human beings.

First, Mark’s book strives to help you play in the sandbox, and offers formulas for success. Second, he offers short courses in negotiating, and discusses perception issues and political tactics used every day and in a practically every workplace interaction. Third, this book hopes to convey information not from a psychological or therapeutic viewpoint but from the point of view of people who live in the trenches: aspiring, hiring, firing, scrapping, fighting, negotiating and maneuvering every day in some very complex environments.  Fourth, unlike books that direct their attention to people aspiring to the highest levels of the business world, this book is designed for the daily battles in the trenches.  Fifth, you will not be asked to change the nearly unchangeable fabric that defines who you are, but hopefully you will find that you might improve in our ability to see your world more objectively and understand those various tools available to you.

Mark lends some wonderful advice for all of us working in the business world–” The solution to surviving and succeeding within business lies in knowing how to see, understand, and take advantage of the behavior that surrounds you, all the while knowing how to utilize the best and most effective characteristics of your own humanity, along with your talents, skills, and resources in a manner that allows you to get where you want to go. ”

If you are working in business and want a book that will help you navigate the land minds in which we are working, then I highly recommend that you read Mark’s book “ I Come First“.  You can learn more about Mark and his book by clicking here to be directed to his website.

Ed has lectured at different non-profit organizations, schools, and private groups.  He has spoken to thousands about life, love, happiness and the priorities necessary to live well.  He is available for public speaking on topics such as motivation, inspiration, and personal growth.

In my interview with Ed we speak about many true stories taken from his life.  One story that touched my heart was about an elderly gentleman that as Ed explains was in his mid to late 80’s.  Ed would drive to work and everyday he would see this man on the street corner in his white shirt waving to the passing traffic.  Ed was amazed that not only did he attract the attention of the passersby but almost everyone would wave back including Ed.

The elderly gentleman was on the corner for a length period of time, and always brought a smile to faces of the people who he waved to.  Then one day this elderly gentleman was not present  as he usually was waving to the passerby’s.   Ed wondered what has happened.  Had he fallen ill, or had he died.  This went on for sometime, but Ed never did find what had happened to the elderly gentleman.  He to this day regrets that he did not take the time to check on him.

Knowing that the passerby’s on this corner were use to the elderly greeter, Ed being courageous and having lots of moxie Ed decided to dress up in a white shirt and play the greeter role of the elderly gentleman.  He admitted  it was scary and uncomfortable for him standing on the corner in his white shirt waving, but the response to his waving was responded to just as if the elderly gentleman had never left, he received smiles and encouraging waves back.

I don’t know about you, but I have experienced many times when a person has waved to me from the side of the street.  Most of the time I think they are crazy and should be institutionalized or need help.  If I were to shift my perspective and not judge, just maybe I could experience the moment for really what it is–a beautiful soul attempting to bring a moment of happiness into my life.

Ed’s book “Notes For The Heart” is filed with great inspiring stories just like this.  If you are down, and need to lift yourself back up–then pick up Ed’s book and read some of the inspiring stories.  For more information about Ed McShane please click here to be directed to his Facebook page.  Enjoy this great interview with author Ed McShane.

In 1996, Craig founded Heartland Inc. with Patricia, his wife of 30 years. Heartland produced the fi rst Thought Leader Gathering in 1998. Twelve years and 170 Gatherings later, Craig has co-convened over 1,600 leaders from 800 organizations in these ongoing membership based groups in Minnesota and the San Francisco Bay Area. He and
Patricia created the Essential Conversations Process for educators (Circle of Fire) and MBA students, and have convened meetings for businesses and communities alike.

Craig created and launched the Art of Convening Trainings in 2004 for those called to be an inspired catalyst for change in their organization or community. Over 350 are currently engaged or have graduated
from 40 groups. Craig’s passion for the wilderness and being among men transforming their lives and personal visions led him to create the Men’s Wilderness Journeys.

Craig is skilled at building relationships within and across organizations. He is dedicated to creating networks of authenticity and essential conversations among individuals and within organizations through training and convening events. He founded the Conscious Business Alliance and the Minnesota Magazine Publishers Association, and served as a board member of Business for Social Responsibility, various Waldorf Schools, and Responsible Minnesota Business.

Craig and Patricia live in Minneapolis; they have three inspired adult children and two grandsons.

I have known Craig Neal for a number of years, as a matter of fact I attended one of his “The Art of Convening” meetings at the Gap in Northern California several years ago.   I recently reconnected with Craig and had the opportunity to discuss his newly released book entitled “The Art Of Convening-Authentic Engagement in Meetings, Gatherings, and Conversations“.

If you are like me, you have attended lots of meetings during your career and frequently walk away wondering “why” did I attend?  If you have ever asked this questions, then Craig’s new book “The Art of Convening” is a must read.

In my interview with Craig we discuss what he refers to as “authentic engagement”.  Authentic engagement is , simply, a genuine expression of what is true for us, and an attentive listening to what is true for another, or others.  Why this simple human interaction often eludes us can be a matter of habit, distrust, faulty modeling, lack of attention, or fear.

Craig has created a wonderful model in the book that assists “the convener” in understanding the art associated with creating a gathering.  The model is referred to as the “convening wheel” and at the center is “The Heart of the Matter” with eight adjacent spokes:  Clarifying Intent , The Invitation, Setting Context, Creating the Container, Hearing all the Voices, Essential Conversations, Creation, Commitment to Action.   Craig states that there is a lot of pressure in our lives to go, go, go all the time–to drive to results and spring into action, often before the actions’s optimal time has come.  It’s counterintuitive to take the time to reflect on how we ill be in relationship with others. In a way, we have to slow down and do the internal due diligence to know what results we really want to drive and when it is time to take the action.

If you are at all interested in better understanding how to hold meeting with meaning, purpose and aligned outcomes then I highly recommend that you obtain a copy of “The Art Of Convening“.  This book will instruct you with essential questions to better understand your purpose, your meetings purpose and the associated actions you really would like to achieve from meetings, gatherings and most importantly conversations.  I hope you enjoy this interview with one of the masters in the business of “authentic engagement”.

You can learn more about Craig and Patricia Neal the authors by clicking here to be directed to their website.

Ron is a pioneer and innovator in the field of Spiritual Psychology, and together with the University’s Chief Academic Officer, Dr. Mary R. Hulnick, he has played a seminal role in the development of the study and practice of Spiritual Psychology at the University of Santa Monica.  Spiritual Psychology is defined as the study and practice of the art and science of human evolution in consciousness.  The University’s Programs in Spiritual Psychology are offered within the context of Soul-Centered education, which recognizes spiritual reality and begins with the assertion that rather than human beings who have a Soul; we are Souls having a human experience.  This principle evokes a radical paradigm shift, which results in a psychological and educational process whose goal is to bring forth the beauty, wisdom, and compassion inherent in every human being.

In co-creative partnership with Dr. Mary R. Hulnick, Chief Academic Officer, Dr. Hulnick has provided leadership in designing, implementing, and facilitating the University’s Graduate Degree Programs in Spiritual Psychology; Consciousness, Health, and Healing; and Soul-Centered Leadership.  He is actively involved in designing programs and seminars for the University, including USM’s Online Classroom.

Dr. Hulnick holds a Ph.D. in Counseling and Educational Psychology from New Mexico State University and an M.A. in Clinical Psychology from Long Island University.  Licensed in the state of California as a Marriage and Family Therapist, Dr. Hulnick has been in private practice for over 25 years, working with individuals, couples, families, and groups.

Dr. Hulnick, with Dr. Mary R. Hulnick, has just completed Loyalty to Your Soul:  The Heart of Spiritual Psychology to be published by Hay House in February 2011.  He has also authored the book, One Way to Know, and is the co-author with Dr. Mary R. Hulnick of Financial Freedom in Eight Minutes a Day, published in 1994 by Rodale Press.  Dr. Hulnick is the founder of USM’s Prison Project, a service project conducted by USM graduates at Valley State Women’s Prison in Chowchilla, California. This service project inspired the award-winning documentary, Freedom to Choose, for which he is an Executive Producer.  The Freedom to Choose documentary won the 2009 Emerging Filmmaker Showcase in the Documentary Category at the American Pavilion at the Cannes Film Festival.

Dr. Mary R. Hulnick has served as the Chief Academic Officer of the University of Santa Monica since 1981.  In this role, she is responsible for all academic matters including curriculum development, academic standards and policy, faculty/student relationships, and faculty development at USM.  She also has an active role in the University’s Executive Team and provides leadership of staff and faculty in the areas of administrative and executive functioning at the University.

Mary is a pioneer and innovator in the field of Spiritual Psychology, and together with University President Dr. H. Ronald Hulnick, she has played a seminal role in the development of the study and practice of Spiritual Psychology at the University of Santa Monica.  Spiritual Psychology is defined as the study and practice of the art and science of human evolution in consciousness.  The University’s Programs in Spiritual Psychology are offered within the context of Soul-Centered education, which recognizes spiritual reality and begins with the assertion that rather than human beings who have a Soul; we are Souls having a human experience.  This principle evokes a radical paradigm shift, which results in a psychological and educational process whose goal is to bring forth the beauty, wisdom, and compassion inherent in every human being.

In co-creative partnership with Dr. H. Ronald Hulnick, President, Dr. Hulnick has provided leadership in designing, implementing, and facilitating the University’s Graduate Degree Programs in Spiritual Psychology; Consciousness, Health, and Healing; and Soul-Centered Leadership.  She is actively involved in designing programs and seminars for the University, including USM’s Online Classroom.

Licensed as a Clinical Psychologist and as a Marriage and Family Therapist in the state of California, Dr. Hulnick has maintained a private practice for over 25 years, working with individuals, couples, families, and groups.  Her special emphases and gifts include the areas of Spiritual Psychology, Consciousness Counseling, couples counseling, nurturing the divine feminine, and answering the call.

Dr. Hulnick holds both a Ph.D. and an M.S. degree in Counseling and Guidance from Iowa State University.  She is a member of Psi Chi, a national honorary Psychology fraternity, and Sigma Tau Delta, a national honorary English fraternity. She is a Clinical Member of the American Association of Marriage and Family Counselors and is also a member of the American Psychological Association.

Dr. Hulnick, with Dr. H. Ronald Hulnick, has just completed Loyalty to Your Soul: The Heart of Spiritual Psychology to be published by Hay House in February 2011.  In addition, she is the co-author with Dr. H. Ronald Hulnick of Financial Freedom in Eight Minutes a Day, published in 1994 by Rodale Press.  Dr. Hulnick is also an Executive Producer of the award-winning documentary, Freedom to Choose, based on the University’s Freedom to Choose Service Project at the Valley State Prison for Women in Chowchilla, California.  The Freedom to Choose documentary won the 2009 Emerging Filmmaker Showcase in the Documentary Category at the American Pavilion at the Cannes Film Festival.

In my interview with authors Ron and Mary Hulnick we get the opportunity to discuss their new Hay House book entitled ” Loyalty To Your Soul-The Heart of Spiritual Psychology“.   This book at it’s essence distills the teachings of the Spiritual Psychology, a two year graduate course and it does an amazing job of covering so many of the valuable lessons of the course.

There are 22 Principals of Spiritual Psychology covered in the book, and while Ron, Mary and I only have time to cover a few you will certainly want to purchase a copy of the book so that you can learn more, believe me it is well worth you investment of money and time.

A key point of the Spiritual Psychology course is something that Ron and Mary call your “Learning Orientation to Life“.   Most people in life are on the “goal line” of life.  Acquiring more things in the physical world reality, home, cars, more money etc.  While this is part of our physical world reality, it is not the most important.  We will soon get tired of just seeking the next new thing in life, and ultimately it will not fulfill our soul.  On the other hand if our orientation to life is on the learning line, we are focused on our spiritual evolution.

Ron and Mary state in Principle #5 ” Physical-world reality exists for the purpose of spiritual evolution.  If you understand this point, it changes your life perspective and will have major positive implications for your lifetime. Wins on the Goal Line stay here, while wins on the Learning Line go with you.  It’s the Learning Line that leads Home to God where progress is spiritual evolution is made.

Mary and I discuss that consciousness functions on three levels, physical, mental and emotional.  On each of these levels we have either positive or negative experiences.  As we grow in our consciousness evolution we seek to ascend to what is referred to as our Authentic Self Level.   At this level of understanding and peace is where we know Unconditional Love.

Your Authentic Self knows the curriculum you have come here to learn. It knows what ego work you’re here to complete.  It also knows that until your ego work is done, your spiritual agenda in the physical world will serve you by continually providing experiences that will tend to trigger your unresolved issues.  These experiences are actually spiritual opportunities to learn, grow and complete what must be done.  The Authentic Self cooperates with this structure, for it knows what it’s here to do and how this physical form supports it spiritual progression.

If you are at all interested in exploring your personal spiritual growth, and want a book that will provide you with so many of the answers you have probably been seeking then I highly recommend Ron and Mary’s Hulnick’s new book ” Loyalty To Your Soul”.  You can also visit the books website by clicking here, or you can learn more about the Spiritual Psychology Master’s program by clicking here to be directed to the USM website.

Please enjoy this wonderful interview with two of the most amazing spiritual teacher I have ever encountered.

In his work he focuses on teaching self-awareness, acceptance and love in a simple way. He helps people realize that introspection doesn’t need to be difficult – but it is needed – to build great relationships in all aspects of your life.

Dr. Craig developed his unique method of counseling by combining his experience as a homeopathic doctor with his extensive knowledge of astrology. “Everyone has their own personal dilemma to solve and their own healing process to unfold to create the foundation that’s needed to nurture all relationships,” says Dr. Craig. He focuses on helping both individuals and couples achieve clarity and balance through self-discovery.

In Elemental Love Styles people find and understand their deeper needs through the four natural elements which represent the human personality types: Fire (creative and enthusiastic), Air (communicative and social), Water (emotional and intuitive) and Earth (practical and grounded). Dr. Craig designed the elemental system to determine deeper love needs based on psychological types. Through in-depth explanations of each, questionnaires, real life scenarios and a break down of how the elemental types relate to one another, people are able to rejuvenate their relationships.

“Love, honesty and inner growth are why we are here and what all relationships require. We want to feel that we are continuously becoming better people,” says Dr. Craig. Helping people achieve this common goal is what motivates him to share his messages.

Dr. Craig resides in Los Angeles with his partner Dan. When he isn’t counseling or writing he enjoys hiking, cooking and reading.

]]> http://www.insidepersonalgrowth.com/2011/01/authors/dr-craig-martin/feed/ 0 http://www.insidepersonalgrowth.com/2011/01/podcasts/podcast-258-elemental-love-styles-with-dr-craig-martin/ http://www.insidepersonalgrowth.com/2011/01/podcasts/podcast-258-elemental-love-styles-with-dr-craig-martin/#comments Mon, 17 Jan 2011 03:08:03 +0000 Greg Voisen http://www.insidepersonalgrowth.com/?p=6240 I had a lot of fun interviewing Dr. Craig Martin the author of “Elemental Love Styles“.  In his book people find and understand the deeper needs through the four natural elements which represent the human personality types: Fire (creative and enthusiastic) Air, (communicative…]]>

I had a lot of fun interviewing Dr. Craig Martin the author of “Elemental Love Styles“.  In his book people find and understand the deeper needs through the four natural elements which represent the human personality types: Fire (creative and enthusiastic) Air, (communicative and social), Water (emotional and intuitive) and Earth (practical and grounded).

Dr. Craig  guides the reader through an understanding of the elements, and how this effect your relationships.  He states that each person is a reflection of the elements found in nature.  Because the elements exist inside us as well as outside us, we don’t just go out in the elements; we live in them.  They are part of us.

Dr. Craig has a very simple 44 question questionnaire which assist the reader in determining their personal elemental style. Once you have determined your style the book does a great job of providing stories and examples of how your particular elemental style relates to the other elemental styles.  With this information you are ready to better understand, communicate and find a type that is better suited toward your personality type.

In our interview together Dr. Craig and I discuss what he refers to as “true intimacy”.  All relationships need intimacy, but what is true intimacy.  True intimacy is getting to know someone and having that person get to know you–and I mean more that knowing your name and what you do for a living. Getting to know each other means finding out how you affect each other. Intimacy is about openness with truth.   Dr Craig explains when we have this kind of intimacy, we have the likelihood of have a much deeper, loving and compassionate relationship which will last.

Dr. Craig also states that one of intimacy’s major components is dynamic inner growth or DIG.  DIG is about making better choices.  It enables your relationship to work out better.  A lasting relationship is one where you are going to have to work it out.  You can’t run, blame, or become immobilized by fear.

So if you are interested in learning more about the “Elemental Love Styles” so that you can better understand your partner, then I highly recommend reading Dr. Craig’s book.  It is one of those books where you have an aha not only about yourself, but about the people you love.  If you would like more information please visit Dr. Craig’s website by clicking here.