The Three-Headed Man

Jazzy, Jimmy, and Phreddie

Jazzy, Jimmy, and Phreddie met in the mid-90s at a model railroad workshop. For the next 25 years, they have talked and talked and talked. Usually, Phreddie, Jimmy, and Jazzy spoke on the phone, and occasionally, they organized trips together. With the universal acceptance of Zoom conferencing, they began to meet every Tuesday, to continue their friendship. The podcast is Jazzy’s fault. He initiated the idea, and Jimmy and Phreddie agreed mostly because all we had to do was talk, and it is more interesting to do something together, than it is to chat together. Their conversations are centered on a weekly topic or prompt. Essentially, the podcast is a recording of their weekly conversations, with some awareness of an imaginary audience. Throughout their years of friendship, they have leaned on each other, shared notes and stories, and helped each other navigate the complexities and challenges of a life well-lived. read less
Society & CultureSociety & Culture

Episodes

Motivation
Aug 22 2023
Motivation
THE THREE-HEADED MAN podcast titled "Motivation" embarks on an exploration of the diverse factors that create meaning and purpose in life.The episode opens with a glimpse into Jimmy's motivation to safeguard his home and community from the threat of Canadian forest fires. This real-world example sets the stage for a broader discussion on what propels individuals to take action.The group delves into the nature of motivation, considering how age and life stages can shape our driving forces. The conversation unfolds into an exploration of the initial pursuit of financial gain and career improvement as common motivators. The group contemplates the pivotal question of what comes after the accumulation of wealth and success.The podcast delves into the quest for meaning and purpose in life, raising questions about whether a job alone can provide fulfillment. Retirement and leisure pursuits such as cruises become subjects of analysis as the group navigates the transition from a career-oriented life to a post-work era.Jimmy's desire for safety emerges as a prominent theme, highlighting the emotional foundations of motivation. The conversation evolves to include discussions about empty motivations and the deeper spiritual yearnings that drive individuals towards more meaningful goals.Material accumulation is also examined, with the group pondering the motivations behind amassing possessions and whether they genuinely contribute to well-being.Phreddie's alpaca farm serves as a compelling illustration of personal motivation. His passion for the farm encapsulates how the pursuit of a dream can shape one's life trajectory.
Shadows of Death
Aug 8 2023
Shadows of Death
In an introspective episode of THE THREE-HEADED MAN podcast titled "Shadows of Death," the group delves into the somber yet enlightening aspects of mortality and personal experiences that bring them face-to-face with the concept of death. The conversation touches on a range of poignant topics, offering a glimpse into the complexities of life's journey.The episode opens with Jimmy's sincere reflection on the loss of physical abilities that accompanies aging. His contemplation serves as a stepping stone to a broader conversation on the transient nature of life and the inevitability of change.Phreddie's near-death fall becomes a focal point of the discussion, as the group delves into the transformative impact of facing mortality firsthand. The insights gained from such an experience further their discussion.The concept of destiny and what is meant to be is explored, leading to a discussion on the contrast between what happens naturally and what one desires to happen. This theme prompts contemplation on the balance between acceptance and personal agency in the face of life's uncertainties.The conversation takes an introspective turn as the group discusses Jimmy's decision that his current garden will be his last. Phreddie questions the rationale behind giving up something that brings joy, leading to a conversation about the motivation behind such decisions and the delicate interplay between fear and pleasure.Throughout the episode, THE THREE-HEADED MAN delves into the profound intricacies of life, death, and the spirit. The conversation encourages listeners to reflect on their own experiences with mortality, loss, and the myriad emotions that accompany them.
Growth
Jul 18 2023
Growth
In this episode of THE THREE-HEADED MAN podcast, the focus centers around the theme of growth. The group engages in a dynamic conversation that delves into various facets of personal and collective growth.The episode commences by exploring the concept of growth itself, encompassing notions of both forward progression and retrograde motion. The group reflects on the significance of growth as a natural and transformative process, considering its relevance in personal development and expanding one's horizons.The conversation takes an introspective turn as the group ponders whether troubled times have the potential to foster growth in individuals. They examine how adversity and challenges can be catalysts for personal growth, pushing individuals to develop resilience, adaptability, and new perspectives.The podcast also delves into the vital role that family and community play in supporting and nurturing growth. The group reflects on the assistance and guidance received from loved ones and the impact of a supportive community in facilitating personal development.A discussion arises as the group contemplates the experiences of individuals living in urban areas. They explore whether urban dwellers might face challenges in accessing the same level of support from family and a sense of community as those in more tightly-knit environments. The conversation delves into the potential effects of such circumstances on personal growth and the importance of seeking connection and inclusion.
Weeds
Jun 26 2023
Weeds
In the 99th episode of THE THREE-HEADED MAN podcast, titled "Weeds," the group engages in a conversation that explores the multifaceted nature of weeds, both in a literal and figurative sense. The episode delves into various topics, shedding light on the significance of weeding in the garden and the mind.The conversation begins by contemplating the concept of weeds and the perception surrounding them. The group explores how the definition of a weed can vary based on individual perspectives and cultural influences. They delve into the parallels between weeding the garden and weeding the mind, highlighting the importance of removing unwanted or negative thoughts and habits to foster personal growth.A spiritual practice involving the act of pulling up dandelions is discussed, drawing from the experiences at the Claymont Society. The perception of time is also explored, with the group considering how our understanding and experience of time have changed over the years. They delve into the challenges faced by a generation that may have lost touch with practical skills such as pulling weeds, highlighting the potential impact on connection with nature and self-sufficiency.The conversation acknowledges the difficulties that can arise during the weeding process, particularly when feeling anxious or upset. The group explores the interplay between emotions and the ability to effectively engage in the act of weeding, emphasizing the importance of finding inner calmness and presence.Throughout the episode, gardening serves as a metaphor for life and personal growth. The group discusses the therapeutic aspects of gardening and the parallels between tending to a garden and tending to one's own well-being.
Zero, Nothingness, and the Void
Jun 12 2023
Zero, Nothingness, and the Void
In this episode of THE THREE-HEADED MAN podcast, titled "Zero, Nothingness, and The Void," the group engages in a conversation exploring various concepts surrounding the void. The episode concludes with a discussion on a meditative practice presented by E.J. Gold called "parking the body," adding an intriguing dimension to the exploration.The conversation begins with an inquiry into the nature of the void, questioning whether it can be perceived as a physical location. Jimmy shares his viewpoint, describing the void as more of a spot rather than a specific place. The group then delves into the numerical aspects of the void, contemplating the significance of -1, 0, and +1 in relation to existence and nothingness.As the discussion progresses, the inter-connectedness of the past, present, and future is explored, offering insights into the nature of time and its impact on our understanding of reality. The group further delves into scientific realms, contemplating the roles of particles such as positrons, electrons, and neutrons as replicas of the past, present, and future, and positive, negative, and neutral.Eternity emerges as a focal point, with the group speculating that it exists on a plane perpendicular to our linear experience of life. The enigmatic nature of sleep is also explored, as the group ponders where consciousness might go during periods of slumber and reflects on the absence of linear time in that state.In the culmination of the episode, the conversation delves into a practice called "parking the body," as presented by E.J. Gold. The group examines the significance of this practice, highlighting its potential to enhance attention and foster a deeper connection with the present moment.
Control
May 29 2023
Control
In this episode of THE THREE-HEADED MAN, the group delves into the theme of "control" through various topics and stories. The conversation takes an intriguing turn as the group discusses controlling a small herd of alpacas, recounting a shearing story that serves as a backdrop for exploring the dynamics of control.The guys examine the human desire to feel in control and the ways in which it affects our behaviors and decision-making processes. They talk about the concept of planning and how our need for control often leads us to create intricate plans, even when the future remains uncertain and unpredictable.The discussion takes a personal turn as Jim shares his experience with diabetes and the aspect of manipulation associated with managing his condition. The group explores the distinction between control and influence, and the importance of adaptability and flexibility in navigating situations where control may be limited.Dominance and the role of catechism are also explored, shedding light on the ways in which belief systems can be used as a means of control. The conversation examines the influence of societal norms, traditions, and ideologies on individuals and the potential for both empowerment and restriction.As the episode comes to a close, the group wraps up the discussion by reflecting on belief systems and how they can serve as tools of control, ultimately prompting listeners to critically evaluate their own belief systems and the extent to which they contribute to personal agency and fulfillment.
Clean
May 8 2023
Clean
In this episode of THE THREE-HEADED MAN, the group discusses the theme of cleanliness, both physical and metaphysical. Jimmy shares his experience of living in a tiny house in Riondel, emphasizing how it's easy to clean and heat. The conversation then delves into the topics of bathrooms and kitchens, and the challenges of maintaining cleanliness in these spaces.The group also talks about ablutions at J.G. Bennett's Claymont School in West Virginia and cleanliness in a Sikh home. They explore the connection between cleanliness and spirituality and how it can affect one's mental and emotional state.The group also touches upon the question of whether magic can be done in a dirty space, highlighting the importance of cleanliness in creating a conducive environment for spiritual and magical practices.In conclusion, the group emphasizes the importance of both physical and metaphysical cleanliness in promoting a healthy and harmonious life. They encourage listeners to reflect on their own cleaning habits and how they can improve their physical and spiritual cleanliness. Jimmy shares his experience of living in a tiny house in Riondel, emphasizing how it's easy to clean and heat. The conversation then delves into the topics of bathrooms and kitchens, and the importance of maintaining cleanliness in these spaces.THE THREE-HEADED MAN also talks about ablutions at J.G. Bennett's Claymont School in West Virginia and cleanliness in a Sikh home. They explore the connection between cleanliness and spirituality and how it can affect one's physical and spiritual state.The group also touches upon the question of whether magic can be done in a dirty space, highlighting the importance of cleanliness in creating a conducive environment for spiritual and magical practices.