Inspired by The Burnout Society by Byung-Chul Han.

Thessaloniki, Greece.

Today, we explore the paradox of modern life through the lens of Byung-Chul Han’s "The Burnout Society."

How has our culture of relentless positivity and self-improvement enslaved us to unsustainable ideals? Is our obsession with personal projects, perpetual growth, and excessive optimism leading us inevitably to burnout?

Join me in this raw, authentic discussion about finding moderation in an age that glorifies excess. Because, ultimately, balance might be our only way forward.

⚠️ A note to listeners:

This episode was recorded under challenging technical conditions, resulting in poor audio quality. For that, I want to apologize deeply.

I will record the episode once more with proper audio quality, by the end of May, with my new, long-awaited equipment. However, until then, I hope you can still enjoy the episode as it is!

New episodes will follow a monthly format. New episodes will arrive on the first Thursday of each month.

Episode 11 will be here on June 3. Stay tuned for season 2!

Resources:

• "The Burnout Society" by Byung-Chul Han

Follow, like, and leave a review to support the show. Thank you for being part of this existential journey. See you next month.

Inspired by: Improv Theater/Improvisation, Johan Gatlung's Conflict Transformation.

Thessaloniki, Greece.

When was the last time you truly built on someone else’s idea, rather than shutting it down?

In this episode, I explore how improvisational theatre, and its central mantra, “Yes, and”, offers powerful insights for navigating life, relationships, and even conflicts & negotiations.

Because sometimes, life isn't about who’s right or wrong. It’s about who’s willing to say yes... and.

—If you enjoyed this episode, please consider liking, reviewing, and sharing it with others; it helps the show grow and reach people navigating life’s changes.

For improv in Thessaloniki, check out ComedyCanvas (in English) and ThessImprovice (in Greek).

For deeper reading on conflict and collaboration, check out my related articles on Conflict Transformation & Negotiation Tips, at gmpapadopoulos.com.

Full episode list and transcripts available at afterthedragon.com. Follow @afterthedragon on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠, to share your thoughts and stay connected.

🎵 Music Credits: Ba Dum Bum ALL by freesound_community.

📣 Promotional Support: Strategaze

Inspired by: Kaizen Philosophy of Continuous Improvement.

Tirana, Albania.

Growth often comes hand-in-hand with discomfort, but change doesn’t always have to be drastic to be meaningful.

Inspired by the Japanese philosophy of Kaizen, this episode explores the power of gradual, continuous improvement. Through personal reflections, spontaneous adventures in Albania, and the challenge of facing discomfort, I share practical ways to embrace life’s imperfections and move forward intentionally, one step or trip at a time.

What small step can you take today to start improving your life?

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Did you enjoy this episode? Like, review, and share; your support helps the show grow. Visit afterthedragon.com for transcripts, and follow @afterthedragon to connect.

Marketing Materials: ⁠Strategaze⁠

Music Credits: ⁠A ship Sailing in the Red Sea by Hesham Hanafy

Sources:

• Investopedia: Kaizen⁠
• VIA Institute of Character Strength Test
• Daily Stoic by Ryan Holiday