Michael Easter, a New York Times bestselling author known for 'The Comfort Crisis' and 'Scarcity Brain,' dives into the struggle between our ancient instincts and modern excess. He discusses the 'scarcity loop'—how it drives our cravings and behaviors in today's world. Michael shares tactical advice for breaking free from overconsumption and embracing discomfort for personal growth. He emphasizes that confronting challenges can lead to true satisfaction, making the case for a more mindful approach to happiness.
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insights INSIGHT
Scarcity Brain
Humans evolved to overconsume resources like food and information because they were scarce in ancient environments.
This "scarcity brain" persists, leading to overconsumption in today's abundant world, creating a mismatch.
insights INSIGHT
The Scarcity Loop
The scarcity loop, a three-part system (opportunity, unpredictable rewards, quick repeatability), hooks people on behaviors.
This loop, used in slot machines and social media, explains our tendency to overconsume.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Pokemon Go: Scarcity for Good
Michael Easter initially criticized Pokemon Go but changed his view after understanding its design.
The game uses the scarcity loop to encourage outdoor activity and social interaction, demonstrating positive application.
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In this book, Meghan O'Gieblyn delves into the complex relationships between technology, human consciousness, and the search for meaning. She examines how the rise of science and technology has transformed our understanding of the world, from the materialism introduced by Descartes to the modern digital age. O'Gieblyn draws on her personal experiences as a former fundamentalist Christian and her studies in philosophy to navigate topics such as artificial intelligence, the hard problem of consciousness, and the blending of scientific and religious thought. The book is a hybrid of history, criticism, philosophy, and memoir, offering a nuanced and thought-provoking exploration of what it means to be human in the face of technological advancements.
The Comfort Crisis
Michael Easter
In 'The Comfort Crisis,' Michael Easter explores the idea that modern society's emphasis on comfort and convenience has led to various physical and mental health issues. Easter's journey takes him to diverse locations, including the Alaskan backcountry, Bhutan, and the labs of neuroscientists, to uncover the benefits of living at the edges of one's comfort zone. He discusses the concept of 'misogi,' a Japanese practice involving challenges that push individuals to their limits, and how such experiences can enhance creativity, reduce burnout and anxiety, and increase overall well-being. The book is a call to action, encouraging readers to break out of their comfort zones and reconnect with the natural world and their own potential[2][3][4].
Scarcity Brain
Michael Easter
New episodes come out every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday for free, with 1-week early access for Wondery+ subscribers
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Learning how to thrive with enough.
Michael Easter is the New York Times bestselling author of Scarcity Brain and The Comfort Crisis. He travels the world to uncover practical ideas that help people live healthier, happier, and more remarkable lives. His ideas have been adopted by institutions ranging from the military to professional sports teams to Fortune 500 companies. He also shares his ideas on his popular newsletter, 2% with Michael Easter.
In this episode we talk about:
The evolutionary roots of overconsumption
The challenges of having an ancient brains in a modern world
The Scarcity mindset vs. the abundance mindset
Understanding what Michael calls the “scarcity loop” – and how to apply it to daily life
Tactical ways to work with habits and cravings
Understanding the scarcity loop, how it hooks us, and then how you can unhook using that same loop
And How’s Michael’s life changed after researching this book
Toward the end, we talk about Michael’s previous book, the comfort crisis—and some Practical steps for embracing discomfort
10% Happier with Dan Harris 
