Howie Lempel

Howie Lempel, a mental health advocate and Chief of Staff at 80,000 Hours, shares his candid journey with depression and anxiety. He speaks about losing a cherished job and spending a year in recovery, shedding light on the stigma surrounding mental health. Howie advocates for a practical approach to well-being, emphasizing the importance of seeking help rather than solely relying on willpower. He discusses the relationship between mental health and career challenges, underscoring the significance of supportive environments and open communication for those struggling.

Phil Trammell, an economics researcher at Oxford's Global Priorities Institute, discusses the concept of patient philanthropy—delaying donations to maximize long-term impact. He argues that funds invested now could yield substantially more for future giving. The conversation explores how historical knowledge can enhance current philanthropic decisions and the psychological hurdles surrounding impatience in generosity. Alongside Howie Lempel, they also debate the implications of immediate versus future contributions in light of global challenges, including the impact of crises like COVID-19.

Howie Lempel, a researcher focused on pandemics and global catastrophic risks, joins Robert Wiblin to delve into the emerging 2019-nCoV virus. They discuss its origins, contagion rates, and the complexities of estimating fatality statistics. The conversation highlights the challenges of public health responses, the implications of asymptomatic cases, and the need for effective communication during health crises. Lempel emphasizes preparedness, navigating uncertainty, and the ethical quandaries surrounding personal protective measures.