

Something You Should Know
Mike Carruthers | OmniCast Media
Sometimes all it takes is one little fact or one little piece of wisdom to change your life forever. That's the purpose and the hope of "Something You Should Know." In each episode, host Mike Carruthers interviews top experts in their field to bring you fascinating information and advice to help you save time and money, advance in your career, become wealthy, improve your relationships and help you simply get more out of life. In addition, Mike uncovers and shares short, engaging pieces of "intel" you can use to make your life better - today. Right now.UPGRADE TO SYSK PREMIUM!To unlock ad-free listening to over 1,000 episodes plus receive exclusive weekly bonus content, go to https://SYSKPremium.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

9 snips
Aug 4, 2025 • 50min
Why We Care What Other People Think & How Social Media is Shaping Language
Meg Josephson, a psychotherapist and author, shares insights on the exhausting nature of people-pleasing and how it relates to our need for approval. She explains the psychological roots of these behaviors and introduces strategies for self-acceptance. Adam Aleksic, a linguist and author, explores how social media reshapes language, including the emergence of new terms influenced by algorithms and censorship. Together, they discuss the interplay between societal expectations and language evolution in our digital age.

10 snips
Aug 2, 2025 • 50min
The Hidden Power of Sensitive People & The Intriguing Story of Recorded Sound - SYSK Choice
Join Jenn Granneman, an authority on sensitivity, who argues that being labeled 'too sensitive' is a misunderstanding. She reveals how sensitivity can be a superpower, offering insights for both sensitive individuals and their loved ones. Also, hear from Jonathan Scott, who presents a fascinating history of recorded sound, from Edison's phonograph to modern music streaming. He highlights the profound impact of sound on our lives, discussing how it has shaped entertainment and culture. It's an enlightening conversation about nuances in human experience and technology.

9 snips
Jul 31, 2025 • 53min
Why You Buy: The Science of Shopping & Turning Setbacks Into Success
In this engaging discussion, retail expert Kate Hardcastle shares her insights on consumer behavior, revealing how emotional satisfaction drives purchasing decisions. She delves into subtle manipulation tactics used by retailers that can empower consumers to shop smarter. Meanwhile, journalist Amy Shoenthal emphasizes the transformative power of setbacks, explaining a four-phase cycle that can lead to personal growth and creativity. Together, they highlight how challenges can ultimately pave the way for success and innovation in both shopping and life.

18 snips
Jul 28, 2025 • 52min
Why We Have Tip-of-the-Tongue Moments & How to Make Better Conversation
Anne Cleary, a psychology professor at Colorado State University, dives into the intriguing phenomenon of 'tip-of-the-tongue' moments, unpacking the cognitive mysteries behind our inability to recall certain words. Alongside her, Jefferson Fisher, a lawyer and expert in verbal communication, shares practical strategies to enhance conversation skills. They discuss age’s impact on memory retrieval, the importance of context, and tips for effective dialogue, revealing how empathy and understanding can improve our everyday interactions.

11 snips
Jul 26, 2025 • 50min
How to Learn Things Faster & How to Have an Argument-Free Relationship - SYSK Choice
Daniel Willingham, a psychology professor at the University of Virginia, shares insights on how to enhance learning efficiency and retention through genuine interest and positive mindset. He challenges common memorization techniques while promoting spaced learning. Meanwhile, psychotherapist Linda Bloom introduces strategies for maintaining argument-free relationships, emphasizing clear communication and emotional management. Together, they reveal the significance of overcoming traditional conflict resolution methods to foster deeper connections and understanding.

9 snips
Jul 24, 2025 • 54min
How Therapy-Speak is Destroying Relationships & Why We Need More Fun at Work
Bree Groff, an expert in company culture and author of 'Today Was Fun', argues that incorporating fun at work can boost morale and productivity. Isabelle Morley, a clinical psychologist and author of 'They're Not Gaslighting You', discusses the misuse of 'therapy-speak' in relationships, emphasizing that labels like 'toxic' complicate genuine communication and foster defensiveness. Together, they highlight the need for balance in workplace happiness and encourage moving beyond simplistic labels in personal interactions for healthier relationships.

12 snips
Jul 21, 2025 • 50min
Real Reasons for Your Strange Thoughts & How Small Acts Change Lives
Jen Martin, an award-winning educator from the University of Melbourne, uncovers the science behind our weirdest thoughts and habits, including why we sometimes feel watched or forget why we entered a room. Tommy Spaulding, author and former CEO, shares the transformative power of small acts of kindness, revealing how orchestrating simple, intentional interactions can create lasting impact in people’s lives. They emphasize the importance of empathy, communication, and the potential we all hold to positively influence thousands through everyday actions.

32 snips
Jul 19, 2025 • 51min
How Random Events Can Impact Your Health & Do You Make Your Job Too Important? : SYSK Choice
Anupam B. Jena, a Harvard medical doctor and economist, discusses how unexpected events, like birthdays or local parades, can surprisingly influence our health outcomes. He shares fascinating insights on the randomness of health decisions. Meanwhile, Simone Stolzoff, a journalist and author, challenges the notion of identity tied solely to work, promoting the idea of a 'good enough job' that prioritizes work-life balance and personal fulfillment. They both advocate for a broader understanding of health and identity in our lives.

14 snips
Jul 17, 2025 • 49min
Where Superstitions Come From & What You Never Knew About Paul Revere
Arie Kaplan, a writer and author of "The Encyclopedia of Curious Rituals and Superstitions," delves into the fascinating origins of superstitions. He explores why they persist in modern society, revealing their psychological roots and cultural significance. Kostya Kennedy, a former Sports Illustrated writer and author of "The Ride: Paul Revere and the Night That Saved America," shares lesser-known insights about Paul Revere's midnight ride, highlighting his multifaceted talents and the complexities of this iconic event in American history.

55 snips
Jul 14, 2025 • 53min
A Hostage Negotiator’s Advice for Difficult Conversations & How to Stay Alive Longer
Ryan Dunlap, a former police detective and SWAT hostage negotiator, shares his insights on navigating difficult conversations with empathy and emotional regulation. He discusses strategies for high-stakes negotiations and how to foster understanding in personal relationships. John Tregoning, a Professor of Vaccine Immunology, explores the science of longevity, emphasizing that a fulfilling life may lead to a longer one. Together, they unravel the connections between effective communication, health choices, and aging.