I think the macho mystique was far more a guiding principle in our Dad's generation than ours, the 'strong silent type' was much more common.

I think everyone understands when these cycles are disrupted, especially in terms of institutionalized poverty, it's always will be difficult - patterns are put into place, and certain behaviors keep getting repeated.

There is a wonderful documentary called 'A Room to Breathe,' where a school brought in a TM instructor, to try and establish a better classroom environment, and the results and transformations were profound. It's impossible to ignore, and we make some passing references in my film, but 'A Room to Breathe' is a closer look at just how powerful meditation can be.

When you have really solid biology and medical science at the core of an issue, it makes it much easier to identify what potential solutions may be.

Many people have overcome that home situation simply by having at least one caring adult, whether a teacher, mentor or religious leader.

What my previous film 'Paper Tigers' have proven, is that it can point toward helpful tools for change.

My grandfather was a prominent executive at Chevron (oil), and of course my father is a fairly radical and progressive environmentalist. But he was also a very active Democrat and pacifist. More importantly, he was one of the best storytellers I've ever met. I think that trait has been passed down the line, even to my kids.