ReThinking

David Duchovny, a Golden Globe-winning actor and acclaimed author, dives into the valuable lessons hidden in failure. He emphasizes transforming setbacks into growth, sharing insights from his own creative journey. Duchovny sparks intriguing discussions on the loneliness success can bring and the challenges of emotional expression in acting. He redefines success as focusing on authenticity rather than conventional metrics, paving the way for a deeper understanding of both triumphs and failures.

Mae Martin, a comedian and writer celebrated for their Netflix special 'SAP' and the series 'Feel Good', engages in a lively discussion about vulnerability's role in authentic connections. They share insights on overcoming procrastination and lessons learned from improvisation, emphasizing the importance of genuine listening and empathy. With anecdotes from their comedic journey, Martin reflects on the childhood spark that ignited their love for comedy, highlighting how acceptance and spontaneity shape both humor and life.

Kara Swisher, a renowned journalist and author known for her no-nonsense interviewing style, joins Adam to share her unique perspectives on confronting authority in tech. They delve into why she ambivalently views the phrase 'speak truth to power.' The conversation also tackles the nuances of privilege in Silicon Valley, accountability in tech, and the fine line between being demanding and demeaning. With her latest book, Burn Book: A Tech Love Story, Kara’s insights promise both humor and depth on crucial industry dynamics.

In this conversation with Anne Lamott, beloved author of "Bird by Bird," listeners dive into the complexities of love, writing, and self-acceptance. Anne shares her insights on the struggles of self-esteem and the messy journey of creativity. They discuss the importance of community support in personal growth and how vulnerability can strengthen human connections. With humor and authenticity, Anne encourages embracing imperfections, highlighting that even "shitty first drafts" can lead to deep, meaningful expressions in writing.

Meg Jay, a clinical psychologist and author known for her work on young adult development, discusses the critical importance of the twenties. She shares insights on common misconceptions about this decade, emphasizing the need for personal clarity over societal pressures. Jay introduces the concept of 'identity capital,' encouraging young adults to embrace enriching experiences. The conversation also addresses the emotional complexities of young adulthood, the role of therapy, and the importance of making proactive life choices for a fulfilling future.

Yuval Noah Harari, a historian and author of the bestselling Sapiens, dives deep into the complex relationship between justice and peace. He highlights how storytelling shapes societal narratives and the importance of compromise in resolving conflicts. The discussion shifts to the need for a fresh perspective on history, urging us to learn from the past to liberate future possibilities. Harari also examines the tensions between nationalism and democracy, and the disconnect between human progress and happiness, emphasizing a shift in our understanding of power and fulfillment.

Saul Perlmutter, a Nobel Prize-winning astrophysicist renowned for his work on the universe's accelerating expansion, shares his insights on the evolving nature of science. He reflects on the emotional journey of discovery and the importance of collaboration and adaptability in scientific inquiry. The conversation highlights the balance of arrogance and humility among scientists, while also contemplating the universe's fate and the power of human creativity in addressing existential challenges. Perlmutter's engaging perspective encourages a thoughtful approach to decision-making.

Charan Ranganath, a psychologist and neuroscientist from UC Davis, dives deep into the fascinating world of memory. He discusses why we remember certain things and what leads to forgetting, emphasizing memory's crucial role in identity. Charan shares insights on how technology impacts our ability to retain memories and the psychological effects of the pandemic on our perception of time. With tips for enhancing memory retention, he advocates for creating rich, memorable experiences rather than relying solely on devices.

Ian Bremmer, a renowned political scientist and founder of Eurasia Group, dives deep into the shifting tides of global power. He discusses 2024's complexities, highlighting the cyclical nature of geopolitics and today's democratic crises. Bremmer emphasizes the importance of emotional leadership and the role of individuals in facing these challenges. He also tackles the interplay between technological advancements and global political dynamics, stressing the need for accountability in tech to combat misinformation. Engaging diverse perspectives is key to navigating this intricate landscape.

In this engaging discussion, will.i.am, a seven-time Grammy winner and tech innovator, shares his unique journey bridging music and technology. He reveals insights into his creative process and the potential of AI in reshaping artistic expression. The conversation covers music integration in autonomous vehicles, the collaboration between humans and AI, and the emotional connections people have with music. will.i.am also expresses his hopes and concerns about the future of creativity in an increasingly automated world.