Jonathan Bastian

Jonathan Bastian

Host, Life Examined

Jonathan Bastian is the creator and host of Life Examined on KCRW. He's an award-winning public radio host, whose work has been recognized by the Associated Press, and Los Angeles Press Club, and others. He has interviewed many leading thinkers, writers and artists, including Jared Diamond, Jack Kornfield, Deepak Chopra, Barbara Kingsolver, Gary Snyder, Ann Patchett, and Oliver Sacks. His work has aired nationally on NPR's All Things Considered and Marketplace. Prior to KCRW, Bastian worked for the NPR affiliate in Louisville, KY, and hosted a public television program that aired across the American Southeast. Aside from his work in media, Bastian holds a masters in counseling psychology, is a licensed therapist (AMFT), and competes in long-distance triathlons across the country.

Jonathan Bastian on KCRW

“He showed us what simplicity could offer:” Pico Iyer and Paul Elie share their insights on the late Pope’s global impact.

Pico Iyer and Paul Elie remember Pope Francis

“He showed us what simplicity could offer:” Pico Iyer and Paul Elie share their insights on the late Pope’s global impact.

from Life Examined

Rebecca Lemov, a professor of the history of science at Harvard University, explores the origins of brainwashing and delves into the concept of how our minds can be influenced through…

Brainwashing: The history and methods behind coercive mind control

Rebecca Lemov, a professor of the history of science at Harvard University, explores the origins of brainwashing and delves into the concept of how our minds can be influenced through…

from Life Examined

This week, Michael Sandel , professor of political philosophy at Harvard University and author of “ The Tyranny of Merit: What’s Become of the Common Good?

Midweek Reset: The Myths of Meritocracy

This week, Michael Sandel , professor of political philosophy at Harvard University and author of “ The Tyranny of Merit: What’s Become of the Common Good?

from Life Examined

More from KCRW

Teen therapist Lisa Damour unravels the complexities of the adolescent mind and offers tips for raising well-adjusted teenagers.

from Life Examined

Astronomer and author Kelsey Johnson delves into the significance of exploring existential questions and nurturing curiosity to cultivate a deeper connection with the cosmos.

from Life Examined

This week, journalist and author of The Explorers Gene:Why We Seek Big Challenges, New Flavors, and the Blank Spots on the Map,” Alex Hutchinson tackles something athletes and sports…

from Life Examined

This week, Kelsey Johnson , astronomer and author of Into the Unknown:The Quest to Understand the Mysteries of the Cosmos talks about the Cosmos and the moral necessity of exploring…

from Life Examined

Is the White House budget proposal an attempt to fight with Congress? Is America’s birth rate a policy problem? Plus, KCRW examines ChatGPT’s impact on campuses.

from Left, Right & Center

Invasive plants are overrunning the Santa Monica Mountains, making fires more destructive and more frequent. Thus, conservationists are trying to grow more native species.

from KCRW Features

This week MIT cognitive scientist and author Tali Sharot reflects on how variety and breaking up routines and habits can help foster a reset and restore joy in our lives.

from Life Examined

Dr. Thomas Noguchi is known as the “Coroner to the Stars” because he performed autopsies on numerous celebrities, including Marilyn Monroe. “ LA Coroner ” documents his legacy.

from KCRW Features

Dan Winter’s advocacy for ending his life is discussed by dementia researcher Lewis Cohen, hospice specialist Jeff Zesiger, and Winter’s husband John Forsgren.

from Life Examined