51. True Love: Practicing Giving Over Receiving

51. True Love: Practicing Giving Over Receiving

Author: Monica Berg and Michael Berg June 22, 2021 Duration: 46:53

In this episode of Spiritually Hungry, Monica and Michael explore the definition of ‘true’ love – the unconditional love we have for others that isn’t based in our ego’s selfish desires but, rather, our desire for them to have goodness and blessings in their lives. Tune in as they share practical tools for creating a solid foundation and actively growing our relationships.



For a relationship to really grow, there has to be a shift to where we ask ourselves, “What am I giving to it?” – Michael Berg



Further readings:

Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman


In a world that often feels fragmented and fast-paced, many of us are left with a deep, unnamed yearning for more meaningful connection and understanding. Spiritually Hungry is a conversation born from that shared feeling, hosted by authors Monica and Michael Berg. This isn't a lecture, but a dynamic dialogue between partners who bring distinct, deeply researched perspectives to life's universal challenges. Monica, who calls herself a Change Junkie, draws from her international work as a teacher and author, focusing on personal transformation and practical application. Michael, a rabbi and scholar of Aramaic, contributes nearly two decades of writing on Kabbalah, offering the historical and spiritual depth of this ancient wisdom. Together, they tackle listener questions that span relationships, societal pressures, cultural shifts, and the inner work of self-improvement. Each episode feels like sitting with two thoughtful guides who aren't afraid to disagree, laugh, and explore the messy intersections of ancient spiritual principles and contemporary living. You'll hear nuanced discussions that refuse simple answers, instead offering layered insights on how to navigate complexity with more grace, intention, and awareness. The podcast thrives on the genuine chemistry of this husband-and-wife team, making profound concepts accessible and immediately relevant to your daily decisions and long-term growth. It’s for anyone who suspects there’s a richer layer to their experiences and is eager to explore it through a lens that is both timeless and urgently modern.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 239

Spiritually Hungry
Podcast Episodes
229. Abundant Ever After with Cathy Heller [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:02:02
In this episode of Spiritually Hungry Podcast, we talk with author, teacher, and podcaster Cathy Heller. Together, we’ll explore the profound idea that each of us has the power to “tune in” to the Creator and manifest ou…
228. Gratitude as Alchemy: Transforming Challenges into Blessings [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 23:49
In a world wired for comparison, anxiety, and endless wanting, gratitude becomes nothing short of a rebellion. In this holiday snack-sized episode of Spiritually Hungry Podcast, we explore how choosing to appreciate what…
227. Awakening the Soul: Finding Joy in Everyday Life [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:42
Do you wake up each morning with a sense of excitement for what’s ahead, or are you just going through the motions? In this episode of Spiritually Hungry Podcast, we explore how living a truly spiritual life renews every…
226. Real Love, Real Work: A Relationship Q&A [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 42:05
Love isn’t something that just happens. It’s something we build, moment by moment, choice by choice. In this episode of Spiritually Hungry Podcast, we delve into strategies for fostering greater clarity, honesty, and pur…
225. Experiencing God All the Time [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 36:15
In this episode of Spiritually Hungry Pocast, we explore a radical truth: The purpose of life isn’t about accumulating knowledge or answers—it’s about deepening our closeness with the Creator. Spiritual growth isn’t a qu…
224. Faith & Fortune: Beast Games Winner Jeffrey Randall Allen [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 51:20
In this inspiring episode of Spiritually Hungry, we sit down with Jeffrey Randall Allen, who made history by winning $10 million—the largest prize in entertainment history—while competing on Beast Games. Beyond the headl…
223. How Facing Death Gives Life with Hospice Nurse Julie McFadden [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 1:12:35
In this deeply moving episode of Spiritually Hungry Podcast, we sit down with Julie McFadden, registered nurse and New York Times bestselling author of Nothing to Fear. Her path from intensive care to hospice has fueled…
222. The Expectation Trap: Why We Drift from Those We Love [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 22:32
Unrealistic and unspoken expectations are like invisible wedges quietly pushing us apart from the people we love most. In this episode, we explore why it’s so important to bring expectations into the light and talk about…
221. Letting Go: The Peace in Releasing What is Not Ours [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 27:04
The key to managing expectations lies in knowing which are reasonable and which were never promised to us in the first place. In this episode, we explore the kabbalistic wisdom that peace comes from walking through life…
220. Curiosity Over Criticism: Rethinking Judgment [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 17:18
In this episode of Spiritually Hungry Podcast, we explore the hidden roots of judgment and how it often reveals more about us than the people we judge. We’ll unpack how judgment narrows our focus, preventing us from seei…