A. J. Jacobs

A.J. Jacobs, a bestselling author and self-proclaimed "human guinea pig," shares his unique insights on approaching life's challenges through a "puzzle mindset." He discusses how viewing problems as puzzles can enhance creativity and persistence, and even help during tough times. Jacobs reveals the joy of problem-solving and the importance of gratitude in personal growth. He also dives into intriguing aspects of the puzzle world, from his own gratitude project to the benefits of maintaining a calm mindset amidst chaos.

A.J. Jacobs, a New York Times bestselling author known for his humorous self-experimentation, shares his wild adventures in personal growth. He hilariously recounts his journey into radical honesty, emphasizes the importance of gratitude in everyday life, and explores how reframing global issues as puzzles could foster collaboration. His year of living biblically brought both insights and challenges, while his quest to make the largest family tree reveals the power of connection. Jacobs' engaging stories will leave you both entertained and inspired.

Link to preorder How Minds Change: www.davidmcraney.com/howmindschangehome Our guest in this episode is A.J. Jacobs, the the four-time New York Times bestselling author of The Year of Living Biblically, Thanks A Thousand, It’s All Relative, and The Know It All. His new book, The Puzzler, is a fun, weird, refreshingly scientific book all about the human brain's fascination with puzzles. Seriously, there’s all sorts of explorations in the book about neural pathways, behavioral routines, how we learn, what gets us into loops, and - this is true - a few attempts to solve the puzzle of our very existence.Show Notes at: www.youarenotsosmart.com Patreon: www.patreon.com/youarenotsosmart Twitter: www.twitter.com/notsmartblog Patreon: http://patreon.com/youarenotsosmart

A. J. Jacobs, a journalist famed for his immersive lifestyle experiments and author of *The Puzzler*, teams up with Anna Shechtman, a crossword constructor from The New Yorker, to explore the vibrant world of word games. They discuss how puzzles have become essential for stress relief, particularly during chaotic times. The conversation dives into the cultural impact of puzzles, including cryptic crosswords and their historical significance. Jacobs and Shechtman also highlight the importance of inclusivity in puzzle-making and reflect on personal experiences that make these games resonate.

A.J. Jacobs, the author of The Puzzler, delves into the intriguing world of puzzles and their significance beyond mere entertainment. He discusses the cultural impact of the Rubik's Cube, highlighting its role in shaping problem-solving skills. A.J. shares personal anecdotes on the therapeutic benefits of puzzles and their insights into life’s complexities. He also touches on concepts like apophenia, encouraging a 'puzzle mindset' to foster curiosity and collaboration in tackling life's challenges.

A.J. Jacobs, the author of "The Puzzler," dives into the fascinating world of puzzles and their reflections on life. He shares how solving everything from crosswords to jigsaw puzzles can transform perspectives and emphasize the importance of curiosity. Jacobs discusses the intricate design of puzzles and the creativity they inspire in communities. He also explores the psychological dimensions of problem-solving, advocating for embracing uncertainty. Personal anecdotes enrich the conversation, especially his touching experience with the New York Times crossword.

Join A. J. Jacobs, a journalist famed for his quirky lifestyle experiments and puzzle passion, alongside Anna Shechtman, a crossword constructor and author focusing on gender in puzzle-making. They delve into the evolving love for word games like Wordle, exploring how puzzles became a comforting distraction during chaotic times. Discover the artistry in puzzle creation, the joy of collaborative problem-solving, and the heartwarming stories of how crosswords provide solace and inclusivity for many.

Join A. J. Jacobs, a journalist and New York Times Best-Selling author, as he dives into the power of open-mindedness. He discusses how gratitude boosts happiness and the importance of humility in personal and societal growth. A. J. emphasizes that being flexible in one’s beliefs when faced with new evidence is a strength. He also talks about transforming disagreements into constructive puzzles and the benefits of limiting sensational news consumption for mental health. His latest insights pave the way for richer, more meaningful conversations.

A.J. Jacobs, a writer and host of 'The Puzzler', discusses the intriguing benefits of adopting a puzzle mindset to enhance mental well-being. He shares his thoughts on how puzzles, meditation, and creativity can alleviate stress. The conversation also explores the joy of reframing challenges as fun puzzles. The nostalgia of summer camp adventures adds a playful touch, while a lively word puzzle challenge invites listeners to engage their creativity. Prepare for a delightful mix of humor and insight!

A.J. Jacobs, a bestselling author known for his unique human experiments, discusses innovative ways to honor the dead beyond traditional burial practices. He explores creative commemorative methods, from written memories to environmental tributes, while addressing society's discomfort with death. The conversation also highlights the power of probabilistic thinking in decision-making and its relevance in everyday life. Additionally, Jacobs delves into the ethics of storytelling, emphasizing the need for narratives that reflect complexity rather than simplistic moral dichotomies.