Vince Beiser, author of "The World in a Grain," dives into the surprising significance of sand in modern civilization and the alarming reality of its scarcity. He discusses how sand is not just for beaches but is essential for construction and infrastructure. The conversation also explores the concept of microvacations as a remedy for work stress, emphasizing their benefits for mental health. Additionally, listeners learn effective savings strategies that encourage a focus on present actions over future projections.

Join journalist Vince Beiser, author of "The World in a Grain," as he discusses the critical role of sand and quartz in tech production, highlighting supply chain vulnerabilities. Kirsty Burrows from the IOC reveals an AI tool's performance against online abuse targeting athletes during the Olympics. Adventurer Ash Dykes shares thrilling tales from his record-setting 37-day jungle trek in Suriname, highlighting the tech he used for navigation and safety. Together, they explore the intricate dance of technology, natural resources, and human resilience.

Vince Beiser (@vincelb) is an award-winning journalist specializing in social issues, technology, and the places they intersect. His latest book is The World in a Grain: The Story of Sand and How It Transformed Civilization. What We Discuss with Vince Beiser: Sand is to cities what flour is to bread -- without sand, civilization as we know it could not exist. Sand is at the core of our daily lives, used to make concrete, glass, asphalt, silicon chips in laptops, and smartphones. Usable sand is a finite, endangered resource and desert sand doesn't work for construction -- in fact, Dubai imports sand from Australia. There's a black market for sand, and there are sand pirates -- it's a resource over which people literally die. Nearly 70% of sand on Earth is quartz (one of the most common minerals on earth), and the cycle to create new sand takes 200 million years. And much more... Sign up for Six-Minute Networking -- our free networking and relationship development mini course -- at jordanharbinger.com/course!  Like this show? Please leave us a review here -- even one sentence helps! Consider including your Twitter handle so we can thank you personally! Full show notes and resources can be found here.