Phil Stutz Podcast with Fritzi Horstman

Jul 7, 2024

Phil Stutz Podcast

Introduction

  • Host: Fritzi Horstman
  • Guest: Dr. Phil Stutz
  • **Books by Phil Stutz: "The Tools," "Coming Alive," "Lessons for Living"
  • Impact of "Lessons for Living": Inspired Fritzi to pursue new goals (piano, writing, lifting weights)

Phil Stutz's Background

  • Education: MD from New York University
  • Career: Psychiatrist at Rikers Island, private practice in NYC, moved to LA in 1982

Key Concepts Discussed

Magic

  • Two Types: Real magic (collective effort) vs. Fake magic (self-deception and individualism)

Creativity and Adversity

  • Quote: "The highest human expression is to create something new in the face of adversity. The greater the adversity, the greater the opportunity."
  • Explanation: Creativity connects with higher forces; real success is staying connected to this force

Outflow and Higher Forces

  • Concept: To create effectively, one must be in outflow and connected to higher forces
  • Embodiment: Upcoming book about needing higher forces for lasting value and true creativity

Part X

  • Definition: A force working against our progress and success
  • Impact: Creates unnecessary problems and false solutions; leads to addictions and destructive behaviors
  • Overcoming Part X: Requires faith and action, not merely intellectual understanding

Faith and Action

  • Faith Defined: Believing in oneself, the future, or higher powers without needing proof
  • Action: Critical to overcoming self-doubt and activating higher forces
  • Importance: Helps form a confident, proactive lifestyle over time

Challenges of Modern Society

  • Dependency on External Validation: Waiting for others to validate or change leads to inaction and weakness
  • Maze Concept: Describes people's tendency to get stuck in cycles of victimhood and resentment
  • Creating vs. Being Right: Emphasis on creation and forward movement over seeking fairness or vindication

Influence on Prisons

  • Part X in Prisons: Many inmates are influenced by Part X and need hope and actionable tools for change
  • Faith in Action for Prisoners: Encouraging inmates to act from a place of faith to regain their potential

Practical Steps for Change

  • Small Choices: Every small decision against negative impulses contributes to reclaiming one's soul
  • Speed: Acting quickly on positive impulses strengthens resolve

Reflections on Broader Implications

  • Societal Maze: Society's addiction to instant gratification and the misguided pursuit of proof over faith
  • Higher Forces: Essential for true progress and creativity
  • Personal and Collective Transformation: Individual growth can lead to societal change

Final Thoughts

  • Time is Sacred: Importance of taking action and making meaningful use of time
  • Call to Action: Phil's encouragement to act immediately on positive instincts and contribute to change

Conclusion

  • Future Aspirations: Fritzi aims to transform prison systems and foster creativity and growth through continuous action.
  • Phil's Advice: Believe in your instincts, act fast, and expect resistance, but persist.

Podcast: Compassion in Action Website: Compassion Prison Project