ReThinking

David Fajgenbaum, a physician scientist at Penn, faced death at 25 from Castleman's disease but miraculously saved himself by repurposing a drug. He founded Every Cure to help others unlock the potential of existing medications. In this discussion, he shares the building blocks of resilience and the disincentives in drug development. They also delve into how AI is revolutionizing the identification of new treatments and the importance of innovative partnerships between nonprofits and pharmaceutical companies in the fight against rare diseases.

In this enlightening chat, Vladyslav Vyazovskiy, a sleep physiologist from Oxford University, reveals the fascinating insights from studying hibernating animals. He explores the intriguing possibility of human hibernation and its potential to revolutionize space travel and medical therapies. The conversation debunks common sleep myths while examining personal sleep patterns over the rigid eight-hour norm. Vladyslav also highlights the intricate relationship between sleep quality and our understanding of its purpose in both humans and animals.

Ethan Kross, a psychologist and neuroscientist from the University of Michigan and author of "Chatter," dives deep into the complexities of our inner voices. He discusses how to transform negative self-talk into positive thought patterns and the role of self-distancing in problem-solving. The power of mental time travel for emotional resilience during crises, like COVID-19, is emphasized, alongside the surprising drawbacks of venting. Kross shares strategies for managing anxiety and the unique ways people experience their thoughts, providing insights for better emotion regulation.

Join John Koenig, a creative mind behind "The Dictionary of Obscure Sorrows," as he introduces fascinating concepts like 'sonder'—the realization that everyone has a rich inner life. He and Adam dive into the bittersweet feeling of finishing a great book and the dread of chasing dreams. They explore the art of inventing words to express complex emotions, shedding light on how language fosters connection and empathy. Get ready to expand your emotional vocabulary and appreciate the nuances of human experiences!

Erin Meyer, a professor at INSEAD and author of "The Culture Map," dives into the fascinating world of cross-cultural communication. She discusses how cultural norms shape honesty and assertiveness, and shares her personal experiences with misunderstandings on her book tour in Japan. The conversation highlights the importance of adapting communication styles for effective collaboration across cultures. Meyer also emphasizes laughter as a bridge in cross-cultural interaction and the critical role of cultural intelligence in diverse workplaces.

Join clinical psychologist Caroline Fleck, who specializes in helping clients connect and change, as she shares insights from her book on validation. She discusses the transformative power of acknowledging others' feelings, emphasizing that validation fosters stronger relationships. Caroline distinguishes between empathetic validation and mere praise, highlighting why sometimes saying less is more. The conversation also touches on setting healthy boundaries and navigating emotional support in a digital age, ensuring genuine connection amidst life's challenges.

In this engaging discussion, Allison Sweet Grant, author of the debut novel 'I Am the Cage,' shares her journey of overcoming a congenital limb discrepancy. She explores deep themes of identity, shame, and resilience drawn from her personal experiences. Allison and her husband reflect on parenting and managing anxiety, emphasizing the power of storytelling in fostering connection. They also dive into the metaphor of the 'junk drawer,' representing unresolved memories, highlighting how embracing vulnerability can lead to personal growth and hope.

Loretta Ross, a public intellectual and activist, dives deep into the complexities of cancel culture. She discusses why shaming often fails to change behavior, advocating for empathy and understanding instead. The conversation explores strategies to engage those entrenched in hate, highlighting the power of personal narratives. Ross shares her transformative journey and critiques the notion of canceling, promoting compassionate dialogues that foster redemption and growth. With a rich background in reproductive justice, she offers fresh perspectives on activism and accountability.

Sharon McMahon, an author, podcaster, and civics teacher known for her engaging approach to improving democracy, joins the discussion with vibrant insights. She explores the pitfalls of party loyalty and proposes innovative voting reforms like approval voting. The conversation also covers enhancing online dialogues and effective civic engagement. With a sprinkle of humor, Sharon shares personal anecdotes and encourages listeners to embrace their impact, all while leading her dedicated community of 'Governerds'.

Dr. Lisa Damour, a clinical psychologist and bestselling author, dives into the pressing mental health issues facing today's teenagers. She discusses the impact of social media, emphasizing the importance of emotional regulation and strong adult relationships. Lisa highlights how close friendships provide joy and support, while also addressing the complexities of body image in the digital age. This engaging conversation emphasizes the need for open communication and understanding between parents and their teens to navigate the emotional landscape of adolescence.