Christopher Lochhead Follow Your Different™

Shelane Etchison, a veteran running for U.S. office, shares her transformative journey from a non-military background to military service, sparked by the events of 9/11. She discusses her determination to serve, the unique challenges she faced in ROTC, and the emotional toll of combat. Shelane advocates for independent leadership in a polarized political landscape and stresses the importance of military representation in government. She also highlights socio-economic struggles and the need for electoral reforms to enhance political accountability.

Roman Sheremeta, a distinguished economist, discusses the war in Ukraine, emphasizing resilience and global implications. Topics include the devastation of war, the importance of standing against aggression, and the need for unity and leadership. The conversation delves into personal experiences, societal issues, and the role of strength in maintaining peace.

Mike Maples Jr., co-founder of Floodgate, discusses Pattern Breakers and non-consensus thinking in startups. He emphasizes the need for disruptive ideas, challenging norms, and staying authentic. The conversation explores creating a different future, taking high-risk bets, and rejecting mediocrity for greatness.

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we engage in a captivating discussion with neuroscientist and author, Kelly Clancy. We explore the profound impact of games on human behavior and society, highlighting their dual nature as both trivial pastimes and cognitive tools. Kelly delves into how games shape intelligence, social structures, and even political systems. The conversation also touches on the gamification of life, the role of games in learning and social bonding, and the potential benefits and pitfalls of gaming. This episode offers a fresh perspective on the universal appeal and transformative power of games. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Kelly Clancy on the Dual Nature of Games Kelly Clancy introduces the concept of the dual nature of games, highlighting their role as both simple entertainment and complex cognitive tools. Games are often dismissed as mere pastimes, but they serve as mental scaffolding that helps individuals understand and navigate complex social systems. Games have played a significant role throughout history, shaping intelligence and social structures. From ancient board games to modern video games, they have been instrumental in teaching strategic thinking, cooperation, and competition. Understanding Complex Social Systems through Games Christopher and Kelly discuss how games serve as a framework for understanding societal rules and structures. Games like Monopoly can illustrate the foundational thinking behind economic systems such as capitalism and socialism. Kelly emphasizes the universal nature of play across species and its evolutionary significance. Games are not just a human phenomenon; they are observed in various animal species, highlighting their fundamental role in development and social bonding. Games as Tools of Learning Throughout history, games have been used as tools for conflict resolution and social bonding. They provide a structured environment for competition and cooperation, helping to resolve disputes and build relationships. Uncertainty is also a key aspect of games that captivates the brain and drives learning. The unpredictability of outcomes keeps players engaged and motivated to improve their skills. Games also serve as a window into understanding human behavior. The spectator element of games, such as watching sports or eSports, allows individuals to observe and analyze the actions and strategies of others. To hear more from Kelly Clancy and the hidden power of Games, download and listen to this episode. Bio Kelly Clancy is a distinguished neuroscientist and author, known for her contributions to understanding biological information processing and agency. Her research has been funded by prestigious fellowships, including those from HFSP, EMBO, and the Branco Weiss Fellowship. Kelly’s work delves into the principles of sensory representations and the interplay between agency and sensory perception in the brain. She has published extensively in top scientific journals and has received the Regeneron Prize for Innovation in Biomedicine. Kelly’s debut book, Playing with Reality: How Games Have Shaped Our World, explores the impact of games on human cognition and society. Her essays have been featured in renowned publications such as Harper’s Magazine, Wired, and The New Yorker, reflecting her talent for making complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging to the public. Her interdisciplinary approach bridges neuroscience and literature, making her a prominent voice in contemporary science communication​. Links Connect with Kelly Clancy! Website | X (formerly Twitter) We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

On this episode of the Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we have a conversation with Krish Ramineni, co-founder and CEO of Fireflies.ai. We explore the transformative impact of AI on business operations, focusing on Fireflies.ai’s journey from a Bay Area startup to a leader in AI-driven transcription and conversation analysis. Krish Ramineni shares his insights on strategic growth decisions, the shift to remote work, and leveraging AI for efficiency. If you want to know more about AI’s potential to revolutionize industries like legal and marketing through innovative applications, then you’re in the right place. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. The Journey of Fireflies.ai: From Startup to AI Pioneer One of the pivotal decisions that contributed to Fireflies.ai’s success was the shift to remote work and maintaining a lean team. Krish Ramineni emphasizes the importance of leveraging AI technologies to enhance productivity and efficiency, allowing the company to operate with fewer resources while achieving significant growth. Krish also talks about the importance of focusing on specific domain-related issues and building applications that solve end-to-end job functions. Fireflies.ai started by addressing the need for capturing and remembering meeting discussions, which evolved into a comprehensive AI meeting assistant that can join video conferencing platforms, take notes, send summaries, and perform post-meeting tasks. The Broader Implications of AI on Business and the Job Market Both Christopher and Krish emphasize the critical role of adaptability in an era of rapid technological change. Businesses must be willing to embrace new technologies and continuously evolve to stay competitive. Krish also shares the potential impact of AI on professions that historically relied on knowledge asymmetry, such as legal and marketing departments. AI can democratize access to information, making it easier for individuals and small businesses to compete with larger organizations. Which means those who are late on adapting might be phased out sooner than they think. The Ethical Considerations and Risks of AI They then touch on the potential risks and ethical considerations associated with AI. Krish and Christopher highlight the importance of careful regulation and transparency to ensure that AI technologies are used responsibly. To hear more from Krish Ramineni and the transformative power of AI in business, download and listen to this episode. Bio Krish Ramineni is the co-founder and CEO of Fireflies.ai, a cutting-edge company specializing in artificial intelligence-driven meeting transcription and note-taking. With a background in product management and software engineering, Krish has a track record of transforming innovative ideas into successful technology solutions. Prior to founding Fireflies.ai, he worked at Microsoft, where he honed his skills in building and scaling enterprise software products. Under his leadership, Fireflies.ai has grown rapidly, serving thousands of businesses globally and revolutionizing the way professionals handle meeting documentation and collaboration. Krish’s vision for Fireflies.ai is to create a seamless workflow where AI-powered tools handle repetitive tasks, allowing individuals to focus on higher-value activities. A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, Krish combines technical expertise with a deep understanding of market needs. His entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to innovation continue to drive Fireflies.ai forward in the competitive tech landscape. In addition to his professional achievements, Krish is passionate about mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs and contributing to the broader tech community. Links Connect with Krish Ramineni! Fireflies.ai | LinkedIn | X (formerly Twitter) We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we talk with a seasoned law enforcement officer and congressional candidate, Tim Alexander. Tim Alexander shares his inspiring journey from a challenging childhood to a distinguished career in law enforcement, driven by a pivotal encounter with police misconduct and his grandfather’s wise advice. They discuss Tim’s dedication to rewriting police policies, advocating for smarter funding and training, and his stance on gun control. Tim emphasizes his commitment to practical, moderate policies focused on public safety, affordability, and job creation, aiming to serve his community effectively. So if you want to hear his insights on law enforcement and his plans as a congressional representative, take a seat and let’s dive right in. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Tim Alexander’s Journey: From Adversity to Advocacy Tim’s story is one of resilience and determination. Growing up in a poor family, he worked hard to support himself and his family. His journey took a significant turn when he decided to pursue higher education, despite financial constraints. This decision led him to an unexpected path in law enforcement, driven by a pivotal encounter with police misconduct. Tim credits his grandfather, Doc Plummer, for inspiring him to pursue a career in law enforcement and make a difference from within. His grandfather’s advice to become a police officer to effect change from the inside was a turning point in Tim’s life. Rewriting Police Policies: Smarter Funding and Training One of the key themes they discussed was the true cost of policing. Tim emphasized that the cost of bringing a new officer on board goes beyond their starting salary. It includes training, equipment, and other expenses that are often overlooked. Tim highlighted the importance of having mental health response teams to handle non-violent mental health calls. He emphasized that police officers are not always the best-equipped to handle such situations and that having trained professionals can lead to better outcomes. Tim Alexander on Gun Control: A Balanced Approach Tim’s stance on gun control is balanced and pragmatic. He supports the Second Amendment and the right to own guns but advocates for sensible gun laws, particularly regarding assault weapons. He emphasizes that these weapons are designed for war and have no place on the streets of America. Tim also discussed the role of law enforcement in advocating for sensible gun laws. He expressed frustration that police associations do not take a stronger stance against assault weapons, despite the dangers they pose to officers. To hear more from Tim Alexander and what he has done for law enforcement and his plans in the future, download and listen to this episode. Bio Tim Alexander, a New Jersey native, has dedicated his life to public service. After experiencing racial profiling, he pursued a 27-year career in law enforcement, rising to Detective Captain at the Atlantic County Prosecutor’s Office. Motivated by a commitment to community trust and safety, he earned a B.S. and M.B.A. from Drexel University and a J.D. from Rutgers University. Transitioning to law, Tim worked as a Major Trials Prosecutor and in the Civil Rights Unit in Philadelphia. Now in private practice, he focuses on Civil Rights and Employment Discrimination law. Tim is a lifelong Democrat, committed to serving his community. For more information, visit Tim Alexander for Congress. Links Campaign Website |  X (formerly Twitter)  | Facebook We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

Eduardo Pluth, a Category Pirate and business strategist, discusses the transformative concept of the experience economy. He emphasizes the shift from traditional goods to creating memorable experiences that resonate on an emotional level. The podcast delves into the hero's journey framework, highlighting how businesses can position customers as protagonists in their narratives. Eduardo also shares humorous insights on skincare, the importance of natural beauty, and the challenges companies like Starbucks face in maintaining a strong customer experience during leadership changes.

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, I would like to share with you a very special tribute to a man who’s not only a legend in the world of basketball but also a cherished friend of mine—Bill Walton. Join me as we take a walk down memory lane, revisiting the first time Bill graced my podcast with his presence and the indelible mark he’s left on my life. A Meeting of Minds in San Diego It was August 24th, 2017—a day etched in my memory, thanks to the friends who captured the moment and shared a photo of our first encounter. Meeting Bill Walton was like stepping into a storybook where the characters leap off the page. Here was one of the greatest NBA players of all time, a man whose stature was matched only by his extraordinary personality, ready to become a part of my world. Our initial meeting took place at an executive event in sunny San Diego, where we were both slated to speak. I remember watching Bill, completely unscripted, captivating the audience with his life’s slideshow in the background. His ability to weave tales and engage listeners with nothing but his memories and a carousel of personal photos was nothing short of mesmerizing. The Teacher in My Life Bill’s journey is one of resilience. From battling a stutter to enduring chronic injuries, his path was never easy. Yet, he emerged stronger, channeling his love for music and life into everything he did. His passion was infectious, and his dedication to being unapologetically unique was something that deeply resonated with me. Bill played a crucial role in my transition to becoming a teacher. His influence was a guiding light, helping me navigate through new territories with confidence. His life lessons extended beyond the court, and I was fortunate to be one of the many who benefited from his wisdom. Radical Generosity and Unwavering Support One of the most touching aspects of my friendship with Bill was experiencing his radical generosity firsthand. I’ll never forget the care package of memorabilia he sent my way—a testament to his thoughtful nature and the value he placed on our bond. In the aftermath of a personal tragedy, it was Bill’s kindness that shone through the darkness. His heartfelt messages provided comfort and support when I needed it most, further solidifying the profound impact of our friendship. As I reflect on the time spent with Bill Walton, I’m filled with immense gratitude. His legacy extends far beyond his basketball accolades; it’s etched in the hearts of those he’s touched with his generosity, spirit, and unwavering friendship. I hope that this episode gives you a glimpse into the remarkable man that is Bill Walton and the special place he holds in my life. His story is one of triumph, tenacity, and the power of genuine connections. Thank you for joining me in this celebration of friendship and legacy. Bio Bill Walton, an NBA legend, is renowned for his exceptional skills, dynamic personality, and influential career. Born on November 5, 1952, Walton’s basketball journey began at UCLA, where he led the Bruins to two national championships. In the NBA, he played for the Portland Trailblazers, San Diego/Los Angeles Clippers, and Boston Celtics, earning two NBA championships and an MVP award in 1978. In 1997, Bill Walton was selected as one of the NBA’s Fifty Greatest Players of all Time. Post-retirement, he became a beloved broadcaster, known for his colorful commentary. Walton’s legacy continues to inspire basketball enthusiasts worldwide. Links BillWalton.com | NBA Profile | ESPN Biography We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

On this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, the conversation takes a deep dive into the complex and sensitive situation in Gaza, Palestine, Israel, and the broader Middle East, and how our perception here in America is being warped by misinformation from different sides. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. A Feeling of Déjà Vu for America On the evening of Feb. 20, 1939, the marquee of Madison Square Garden was lit up for the big event: “Pro American Rally.” But it was the farthest thing from being American as can be. Uniformed members of pro-Hitler group The German American Bund carried American and nazi flags. That being said, In the last week of December 1942, fifty leading German-Americans (including baseball legend Babe Ruth) signed a declaration condemning nazis which appeared in ten major American daily newspapers. Ultimately, American patriots stopped the American nazis. Looking at the events this week at Columbia, MIT, NYU, and other elite US schools, they mirror much of the hate, horror and scale of The German American Bund. While some were there to genuinely support the civilians trapped in the ongoing conflict, there were others that openly supported Hamas’ extremist actions. It was very ironic to see banners about women and LGBT+ groups support, when they are the most oppressed in the world that these people envision. What’s even worse is that there were reasons to suspect that these protests were sponsored by people who don’t want to get their own hands dirty. (Mis)Information is Rampant One of the downsides of our technological boom is the ease of access to information. Unfortunately, ease of access does not always mean a smart populace. As information is shared from peer to peer, information gets distorted, if not outright manipulated to suit their agendas, that sometimes the victim comes out on the other end as the one being ganged on, instead of the oppressor. This particularly true with social media sites, who has become the de-facto source of information for the younger generation. There was even a brief period where young people were lauding a speech that Bin Laden made to justify 9/11. Never mind the atrocities he and his jihadist group committed in the US and international stage, he made a great speech! Totally justified. Call to Arms Nazis have attacked America from within before. American patriots stopped them. The only question now is, will you and I empower radical jihadists nazis? Or will we stop them, like our ancestors did 78 years ago? To hear more of Christopher Lochhead’s points on the matter, download and listen to this episode. Bio Christopher Lochhead Links WSJ Article on the Anti-Israel Protesters The World’s Record Holder for Executing Women Has Executed Three Women in Three Days This Is Ahmad. He Was Queer In Palestine. We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!

Here at Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different, we’ve had the privilege of engaging in conversations that transcend the ordinary, delving into the depths of what truly makes us tick. On this episode, we sat down with Bruce Feiler, an acclaimed New York Times best-selling author, to explore his work, “Life Is in the Transitions.” Bruce Feiler is a renowned American author, television personality, and speaker known for his insightful and thought-provoking work on family dynamics, religion, and contemporary culture. He is the author of several New York Times bestsellers, including “Walking the Bible,” “The Council of Dads,” and “Life Is in the Transitions.” Feiler’s work often blends personal narrative with broader cultural analysis, and he has been a popular columnist for publications like The New York Times. This wasn’t your typical interview; it was a real, raw conversation about the seismic shifts we all face and how we can navigate them with grace and resilience. We believe that people are now more than ever being rocked by their life quakes, and hope that Bruce’s words could help us once again. You’re listening to Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different. We are the real dialogue podcast for people with a different mind. So get your mind in a different place, and hey ho, let’s go. Bruce Feiler on the Non-Linear Journey of Life Bruce’s personal journey is a testament to the power of embracing life’s unpredictability. From battling cancer to supporting his father through Parkinson’s disease, he’s no stranger to what he calls “life quakes.” These are the massive, often unexpected events that shake us to our core and challenge the linear narrative we’ve been sold about how life is “supposed” to go. During our talk, Bruce recounted a moment at his 30th college reunion that sparked a revelation. As he moderated a panel of distinguished classmates, he saw firsthand the universal struggle to maintain the facade of a perfect, linear life trajectory. This experience, coupled with his own, led him to question the societal pressures that bind us to outdated life narratives. Bruce Feiler on the Myth of the Midlife Crisis One of the most enlightening parts of our discussion centered on the concept of the midlife crisis. Bruce debunked this myth, pointing out the flawed research and biases behind it. He argued that we need to update our understanding of life transitions to reflect the modern, non-linear world we live in—a world where change is the only constant. We also emphasized the importance of proactive life design. We must acknowledge and navigate through life’s disruptions, which often come at us like a “car pileup,” multiple and simultaneous. It’s about learning to dance in the rain, rather than waiting for the storm to pass. Life Quakes: Voluntary and Involuntary Bruce explained that life quakes are frequent disruptors, with most being manageable. However, about 53% of these quakes are involuntary—like a spouse cheating or losing a job—while 47% are voluntary, such as changing religion or leaving a job. Millennials, he noted, are more inclined to seek change, while older generations may feel more stuck. The pandemic, a collective involuntary life quake, has heightened our sensitivity to change. Bruce stressed that while the quake may be involuntary, the life transition that follows must be voluntary. It’s about taking back control and making the decision to navigate through the transition effectively. “If we look at life transitions as periods that we have to suffer our way through, we are wasting half of our life. If we look at them as periods, they’re going to be difficult and painful, but there’s also opportunities for growth and renewal. That’s the story of your life.” – Bruce Feiler Bruce’s book doesn’t just lay out the problem; it offers a toolkit for navigating life transitions. He provides practical guidance on what to expect, the phases involved, and the tools to get through it. This part of our conversation was particularly impactful, as it offered listeners actionable steps to take control of their life narratives. To hear more from Bruce Feiler and know more about life quakes and the transitions that come with it, download and listen to this episode. Bio Bruce Feiler is one of America’s most popular voices in contemporary life. He is the author of several New York Times bestsellers; the presenter of two prime-time series on PBS; and the inspiration for the drama COUNCIL OF DADS on NBC. Bruce’s two TED Talks have been viewed more than two million times. Employing a firsthand approach to his work, Bruce is known for living the experiences he writes about. His work combines timeless wisdom with timely knowledge turned into practical, positive messages that allow people to live with more meaning, passion, and joy. His book, LIFE IS IN THE TRANSITIONS: Mastering Change at Any Age, describes his journey across America, collecting hundreds of life stories, exploring how we can navigate the growing number of life transitions with greater purpose and skill. “One of those books that’s so profoundly aligned with the zeitgeist that you end up underlining the whole book,” wrote Arianna Huffington in Thrive Global. “Bruce Feiler is the perfect person to lead us on this journey.” Links Connect with Bruce Feiler! Website | LinkedIn | Twitter/X | Books We hope you enjoyed this episode of Christopher Lochhead: Follow Your Different™! Christopher loves hearing from his listeners. Feel free to email him, connect on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and subscribe on Apple Podcast / Spotify!