60 acast.com The Next Ideal https://feeds.acast.com/public/shows/the-next-ideal en Steven Pond Stormlight,Brandon Sanderson,Cosmere,Kaladin,Way of Kings The Next Ideal A Stormlight Self-Help Podcast Real lessons from a fantasy world - we approach the Stormlight Archive as a therapy text, working our way through The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson, using modern psychology theories and practices to help you find your Next Ideal.


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Real lessons from a fantasy world - we approach the Stormlight Archive as a therapy text, working our way through The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson, using modern psychology theories and practices to help you find your Next Ideal.


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> false Redwell Audio Productions thecosmerenaut@gmail.com 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c the-next-ideal serial https://assets.pippa.io/shows/690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c/1764353401298-4182cde7-7a95-4061-9f70-a1bf61d7115f.jpeg https://feeds.acast.com/public/shows/the-next-ideal The Next Ideal 6d85be80-f25c-11f0-b459-671150893546 Hero and Villain Hero and Villain Tue, 14 Jul 2026 10:00:00 GMT 47:18 6a4c325d5fd88ad005ba5de2 false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/6a4c325d5fd88ad005ba5de2 6a4c325d5fd88ad005ba5de2 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c TWoK Chapter 37 full 1 28 Light can illuminate difficult and complicated truths, but wisdom is learning that the seemingly conflicting perspectives can both be true.


Thank you to  @audonalsium  for joining us on these episodes!


Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 37!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Light can illuminate difficult and complicated truths, but wisdom is learning that the seemingly conflicting perspectives can both be true.


Thank you to  @audonalsium  for joining us on these episodes!


Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 37!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Jasnah & The Lesson]]> Tue, 07 Jul 2026 10:00:00 GMT 48:56 6a3f56fa6b6690f46a200f91 false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/6a3f56fa6b6690f46a200f91 6a3f56fa6b6690f46a200f91 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c TWoK Chapter 36 full 1 27 Now matter how much we may wish otherwise, there are no simple answers, morality is made up of shades of grey, and the people with whom we most strongly disagree usually have some good points.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 36!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Now matter how much we may wish otherwise, there are no simple answers, morality is made up of shades of grey, and the people with whom we most strongly disagree usually have some good points.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 36!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Reality of Pessimism The Reality of Pessimism Tue, 30 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT 34:47 6a32d5fca43c1651f463caf1 false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/6a32d5fca43c1651f463caf1 6a32d5fca43c1651f463caf1 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c full 1 26 Looking on the *not* bright side can help us prepare for bad things, as long is it doesn't close us off from the possibility of good things happening.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapters 34 & 35!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Looking on the *not* bright side can help us prepare for bad things, as long is it doesn't close us off from the possibility of good things happening.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapters 34 & 35!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Palates of Personality Palates of Personality Tue, 23 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT 44:16 6a29f05b3f4eb34728dead5c false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/6a29f05b3f4eb34728dead5c 6a29f05b3f4eb34728dead5c 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c TWoK Chapter 33 full 1 25 We all have tendencies, ways we usually approach life. But that doesn't always dictate how we behave in every situation. And also jam is delicious.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 33!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> We all have tendencies, ways we usually approach life. But that doesn't always dictate how we behave in every situation. And also jam is delicious.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 33!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Side Carry Side Carry Tue, 16 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT 49:53 6a1b154aad1ed3d7b5cec48e false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/6a1b154aad1ed3d7b5cec48e 6a1b154aad1ed3d7b5cec48e 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c full 1 24 New ideas can be lifesaving, but can also be chaotic in the larger context.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapters 30, 31, & 32!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> New ideas can be lifesaving, but can also be chaotic in the larger context.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapters 30, 31, & 32!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Errorgance Errorgance Tue, 09 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT 41:51 6a1b14b149418f56c48ff05c false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/6a1b14b149418f56c48ff05c 6a1b14b149418f56c48ff05c 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c TWoK Chapter 29 full 1 23 Being confident in our positions while still allowing the for possibility of being wrong is an ideal I think we ALL can strive for.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 29!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Being confident in our positions while still allowing the for possibility of being wrong is an ideal I think we ALL can strive for.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 29!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> How to Think Differently How to Think Differently Tue, 02 Jun 2026 10:00:00 GMT 39:46 6a0e0bde11eba3cf150a6c35 false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/6a0e0bde11eba3cf150a6c35 6a0e0bde11eba3cf150a6c35 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c full 1 22 Rysn, Axies, and Szeth teach us to change our viewpoints on the future, present, and past. And also maybe about nudity.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Interludes 4, 5, & 6!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Rysn, Axies, and Szeth teach us to change our viewpoints on the future, present, and past. And also maybe about nudity.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Interludes 4, 5, & 6!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Move Your Body! Move Your Body! Tue, 26 May 2026 10:00:00 GMT 52:00 6a04061b37a1e7308d42e065 false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/6a04061b37a1e7308d42e065 6a04061b37a1e7308d42e065 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c TWoK Chapter 28 full 1 21 The act of physical exertion fundamentally can help our minds work through hard stuff too. If you're struggling emotionally, do some jumping jacks, go for a run, or even just close your eyes, balance, and breathe.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 28!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The act of physical exertion fundamentally can help our minds work through hard stuff too. If you're struggling emotionally, do some jumping jacks, go for a run, or even just close your eyes, balance, and breathe.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 28!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Chasms & Stew]]> Tue, 19 May 2026 10:00:00 GMT 1:08:04 69f66ed4417b02e938c1789e false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/69f66ed4417b02e938c1789e 69f66ed4417b02e938c1789e 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c TWoK Chapter 27 full 1 20 The degree to which we can influence our minds by connecting with our bodies is incredible. Everything is interrelated.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 27!


Featuring Dr. Jerome Lubbe, author of The Brain-Based Enneagram:

https://www.drjerome.com/

https://www.amazon.com/Brain-Based-Enneagram-You-are-number/dp/173329452X


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The degree to which we can influence our minds by connecting with our bodies is incredible. Everything is interrelated.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 27!


Featuring Dr. Jerome Lubbe, author of The Brain-Based Enneagram:

https://www.drjerome.com/

https://www.amazon.com/Brain-Based-Enneagram-You-are-number/dp/173329452X


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Candles in the Darkness Candles in the Darkness Tue, 12 May 2026 10:00:00 GMT 40:57 69f66d6b8dd960ac616f7a5a false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/69f66d6b8dd960ac616f7a5a 69f66d6b8dd960ac616f7a5a 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c TWoK Chapter 26 full 1 19 What walls are we imposing on ourselves because we just assume they're there? Seriously, Taskmaster is an excellent case study of that.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 26!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> What walls are we imposing on ourselves because we just assume they're there? Seriously, Taskmaster is an excellent case study of that.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 26!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Finding Your Own Codes Finding Your Own Codes Tue, 05 May 2026 10:00:00 GMT 47:49 69e96f1a66c3374f7e1b305a false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/69e96f1a66c3374f7e1b305a 69e96f1a66c3374f7e1b305a 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c full 1 18 It doesn't matter what other people think; as long as you find meaning in what you love, that's good enough.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapters 24 & 25!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> It doesn't matter what other people think; as long as you find meaning in what you love, that's good enough.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapters 24 & 25!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Allowing Discomfort Allowing Discomfort Tue, 28 Apr 2026 10:00:00 GMT 46:08 69de6d92ae3386471504dc6d false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/69de6d92ae3386471504dc6d 69de6d92ae3386471504dc6d 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c full 1 17 This one sort of turned into a therapy session for me. Sorry about that.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapters 22 & 23!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> This one sort of turned into a therapy session for me. Sorry about that.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapters 22 & 23!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Momentum and Resilience Momentum and Resilience Tue, 21 Apr 2026 10:00:00 GMT 50:47 69d552f334b90cef2b296ec4 false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/69d552f334b90cef2b296ec4 69d552f334b90cef2b296ec4 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c full 1 16 Action precedes motivation. But planning and practice can precede action. Though technically those are actions too. So action precedes action, which precedes motivation. You get it.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week: The Way of Kings Chapters 20 & 21!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Action precedes motivation. But planning and practice can precede action. Though technically those are actions too. So action precedes action, which precedes motivation. You get it.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week: The Way of Kings Chapters 20 & 21!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Always Keep The Stance Always Keep The Stance Tue, 14 Apr 2026 10:00:00 GMT 56:43 69cc43ab03f0e158308a366c false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/69cc43ab03f0e158308a366c 69cc43ab03f0e158308a366c 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c full 1 15 Extending humanity and "agent-ity" to ourselves can be incredibly difficult; even though we live our own experiences, we don't always recognize the circumstances that lead to those experiences.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapters 18 & 19!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Extending humanity and "agent-ity" to ourselves can be incredibly difficult; even though we live our own experiences, we don't always recognize the circumstances that lead to those experiences.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapters 18 & 19!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> A Beautiful Contagion A Beautiful Contagion Tue, 07 Apr 2026 10:00:00 GMT 44:03 69cc44281bf9765f47cf8b96 false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/69cc44281bf9765f47cf8b96 69cc44281bf9765f47cf8b96 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c TWoK Chapter 17 full 1 14 Compassion, like a virus, can spread when it is observed. Let's go infect others with it.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 17!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Compassion, like a virus, can spread when it is observed. Let's go infect others with it.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 17!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/cw/CosmereNerds


The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> What Are You Supposed To Be? What Are You Supposed To Be? Tue, 31 Mar 2026 10:00:00 GMT 52:34 69b340a291324664df96b778 false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/69b340a291324664df96b778 69b340a291324664df96b778 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c TWoK Chapter 16 full 1 13 Life has the meaning that we give it. And context can help us decide.


Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 16!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Life has the meaning that we give it. And context can help us decide.


Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 16!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> How Much Are You Worth? How Much Are You Worth? Tue, 24 Mar 2026 10:00:00 GMT 37:25 69a8e743618d0d8bf7ed36b5 false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/69a8e743618d0d8bf7ed36b5 69a8e743618d0d8bf7ed36b5 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c TWoK Chapter 15 full 1 12 You can't be worthless, because no one is worth more than you are.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 15!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> You can't be worthless, because no one is worth more than you are.


Real lessons from a fantasy world!

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 15!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Power of Choice The Power of Choice Tue, 17 Mar 2026 10:00:00 GMT 42:11 69a5eb0799cbc5047735d9ba false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/69a5eb0799cbc5047735d9ba 69a5eb0799cbc5047735d9ba 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c TWok Chapter 14 full 1 11 Doing a difficult thing because you know it will make things better later can be transformative.


Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 14!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Doing a difficult thing because you know it will make things better later can be transformative.


Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 14!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Truth and Heroism Truth and Heroism Tue, 10 Mar 2026 10:00:00 GMT 43:32 699be63568ec8626d200725d false https://thenextideal.com 699be63568ec8626d200725d 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c full 1 10 Just because someone believes something different than you doesn't make their lived experience any less True.

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapters 12 & 13!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Just because someone believes something different than you doesn't make their lived experience any less True.

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapters 12 & 13!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Hero of Your Own Story Hero of Your Own Story Tue, 03 Mar 2026 11:00:00 GMT 44:45 69940203d85aecd27a86ac57 false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/69940203d85aecd27a86ac57 69940203d85aecd27a86ac57 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c full 1 9 Real lessons from a fantasy world!


Word of the Day is Sonder: the profound, often sudden realization that every random passerby is living a life as vivid, complex, and chaotic as your own.

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Interludes 1, 2, & 3!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Real lessons from a fantasy world!


Word of the Day is Sonder: the profound, often sudden realization that every random passerby is living a life as vivid, complex, and chaotic as your own.

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Interludes 1, 2, & 3!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Stepping Back From The Edge Stepping Back From The Edge Tue, 24 Feb 2026 11:00:00 GMT 54:06 698820c445f62cfe94756cc1 false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/698820c445f62cfe94756cc1 698820c445f62cfe94756cc1 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c TWoK Chapter 11 full 1 8 Real lessons from a fantasy world!


Trigger Warning: we talk about suicide A LOT in this episode. Which shouldn't be a surprise, given the chapter we're on. Nothing graphic, but it certainly can be a hard topic for some.


Steven Pond (@TheCosmerenaut) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 11!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Real lessons from a fantasy world!


Trigger Warning: we talk about suicide A LOT in this episode. Which shouldn't be a surprise, given the chapter we're on. Nothing graphic, but it certainly can be a hard topic for some.


Steven Pond (@TheCosmerenaut) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 11!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Subjects and Objects Subjects and Objects Tue, 17 Feb 2026 11:00:00 GMT 54:58 698420950aa79440530059f4 false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/698420950aa79440530059f4 698420950aa79440530059f4 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c full 1 7 Real lessons from a fantasy world!


The values we develop in childhood often shape the rest of our lives.

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapters 9 & 10!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Real lessons from a fantasy world!


The values we develop in childhood often shape the rest of our lives.

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapters 9 & 10!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Shallan's Problem Solving]]> Tue, 10 Feb 2026 11:00:00 GMT 39:22 698260f6a4fd9ee513533723 false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/698260f6a4fd9ee513533723 698260f6a4fd9ee513533723 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c full 1 6 Real lessons from a fantasy world!


No matter what MATH says, you totally do win more on the third hand. Or at least, you win when you need it most.

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapters 7 & 8!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Real lessons from a fantasy world!


No matter what MATH says, you totally do win more on the third hand. Or at least, you win when you need it most.

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapters 7 & 8!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Resisting Hopelessness Resisting Hopelessness Tue, 03 Feb 2026 11:00:00 GMT 36:12 698192414b12c3dd731a88bc false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/698192414b12c3dd731a88bc 698192414b12c3dd731a88bc 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c TWoK Chapter 6 full 1 5 Real lessons from a fantasy world!


There's always SOMETHING to hold on to, even if it's just a name.

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 6!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Real lessons from a fantasy world!


There's always SOMETHING to hold on to, even if it's just a name.

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 6!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Continuing After Rejection Continuing After Rejection Tue, 27 Jan 2026 11:00:00 GMT 38:41 6961739f79fe7d55456859c6 false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/6961739f79fe7d55456859c6 6961739f79fe7d55456859c6 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c TWoK Chapter 5 full 1 4 Real lessons from a fantasy world!


What do we do after someone tells us no? Especially if what we're working toward is vitally important?

Steven Pond (@TheCosmerenaut) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 5!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Real lessons from a fantasy world!


What do we do after someone tells us no? Especially if what we're working toward is vitally important?

Steven Pond (@TheCosmerenaut) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapter 5!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Prelude, Prologue, and Persistence Prelude, Prologue, and Persistence Tue, 20 Jan 2026 11:00:00 GMT 46:00 6943514b959d6e4950af3e37 false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/6943514b959d6e4950af3e37 6943514b959d6e4950af3e37 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c full 1 1 Real lessons from a fantasy world!


Are Kalak and Jezrien wrong for giving up? Is Szeth wrong for sticking with it?

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, the Prelude and Prologue to the Stormlight Archive!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Real lessons from a fantasy world!


Are Kalak and Jezrien wrong for giving up? Is Szeth wrong for sticking with it?

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, the Prelude and Prologue to the Stormlight Archive!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> <![CDATA[Kaladin's Search For Meaning]]> Tue, 20 Jan 2026 11:00:00 GMT 42:46 69508a1844fae3e8021e1fc2 false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/69508a1844fae3e8021e1fc2 69508a1844fae3e8021e1fc2 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c full 1 2 Real lessons from a fantasy world!


Even in the depths of despair (aka - trapped in a slave wagon during a highstorm), we can still find purpose.

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapters 1 & 2!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Real lessons from a fantasy world!


Even in the depths of despair (aka - trapped in a slave wagon during a highstorm), we can still find purpose.

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapters 1 & 2!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Fragile Expectations Fragile Expectations Tue, 20 Jan 2026 11:00:00 GMT 41:37 695d679f8e6dd12efb0c699d false https://shows.acast.com/the-next-ideal/episodes/695d679f8e6dd12efb0c699d 695d679f8e6dd12efb0c699d 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c full 1 3 Real lessons from a fantasy world!

How is it one of the best quotes from these books comes from an actual slaver?

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapters 3 & 4!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Real lessons from a fantasy world!

How is it one of the best quotes from these books comes from an actual slaver?

Steven Pond ( @TheCosmerenaut ) and Dr. Ben Jeppsen explore what Brandon Sanderson's "The Way of Kings" can teach us about mental health.

This week, The Way of Kings Chapters 3 & 4!


The Next Ideal Podcast is available on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! For more information, visit TheNextIdeal.com


The Next Step Coin by Dragonsteel: https://www.dragonsteelbooks.com/products/next-step-coin

NerdHQ direct link: https://nerdhq.org/


NerdHQ Cosmere Nerds for Mental Health Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/cosmerenerds

The Next Ideal Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/thenextideal



The Next Ideal Podcast is not affiliated with Brandon Sanderson or Dragonsteel Entertainment

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> The Next Ideal Trailer The Next Ideal Trailer Fri, 28 Nov 2025 21:20:54 GMT 2:11 692a1236c4da9138ec9cf337 false https://youtu.be/J6fLgg6PyeI 692a1236c4da9138ec9cf337 690e5e1a7728b8766ce4638c trailer 1 Real lessons from a fantasy world - we approach the Stormlight Archive as a therapy text, working our way through The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson, using modern psychology theories and practices to help you find your Next Ideal.


Featuring Steve @TheCosmerenaut and Dr. Ben Jeppsen, The Stormlight Psychologist


Subscribe on YouTube, follow wherever you get your podcasts, and sign up for notifications on TheNextIdeal.com!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]> Real lessons from a fantasy world - we approach the Stormlight Archive as a therapy text, working our way through The Way of Kings by Brandon Sanderson, using modern psychology theories and practices to help you find your Next Ideal.


Featuring Steve @TheCosmerenaut and Dr. Ben Jeppsen, The Stormlight Psychologist


Subscribe on YouTube, follow wherever you get your podcasts, and sign up for notifications on TheNextIdeal.com!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

]]>