Something You Should Know

Ozan Varol, a former rocket scientist and author, shares his insights on finding personal success and the importance of creativity over conformity. He emphasizes the need for independent thought in today's world. Christian Jarrett, a cognitive neuroscientist and author, discusses the possibility of personality change and how individuals can consciously modify traits to reach their goals. Together, they explore the pathways to awaken one's genius and the science behind personal transformation, making for an enlightening conversation on self-improvement.

Chris Guillebeau, author of 'Time Anxiety,' dives into the illusion of urgency that plagues modern life, revealing practical strategies to tackle time anxiety and prioritize joy. Meanwhile, Kent Dunlap, a biology professor, explores the neck's fascinating anatomy and its cultural significance, from adornment to communication. Together, they peel back layers on how societal pressures influence our perception of time and the overlooked importance of our necks, ultimately encouraging listeners to rethink productivity and embrace life's simple pleasures.

Join Alex Hutchinson, a columnist for Outside magazine and author of 'The Explorer's Gene', as he dives into the intriguing balance between risk-taking and playing it safe. He explores how our personalities influence our choices in adventures versus the familiar. Also featured is Michael Joseph Gross, a Vanity Fair contributing editor and author of 'Stronger', who highlights the transformative power of strength training for physical and mental health. Discover how lifting weights can enhance your well-being at any age!

Lydia Fenet, an ambassador for Christie's and auctioneer, shares insights from her book 'Claim Your Confidence,' exploring how stepping outside your comfort zone can build genuine self-assurance. Hayden Finch, a licensed clinical psychologist and author of 'The Psychology of Procrastination,' delves into the psychological roots of procrastination and offers practical strategies, including the S-L-A-M method, to combat imposter syndrome and enhance self-worth. Together, they tackle the intricate relationship between confidence and procrastination.

Annie Grossman, a former journalist and now an animal trainer who runs School For The Dogs, joins Therese Huston, a cognitive scientist and author of "Sharp." They dive into the intriguing concept of how wearing certain clothes can transform your mindset. Therese offers actionable strategies for turning even the worst days around, using neuroscience techniques like breathing exercises and binaural beats. Annie decodes dog behavior, offering insights into training methods using positive reinforcement and understanding canine body language.

Join linguist John H. McWhorter and psychologist Caroline Fleck as they explore the fascinating worlds of validation and pronouns. McWhorter breaks down the complexities of English pronouns, revealing how they shape communication, while Fleck shares the transformative power of emotional validation in relationships. They discuss practical ways to validate others' feelings, the impact on mental health, and how validation can foster deeper connections. Plus, they touch on the historical evolution of language and its role in understanding identity.

Michael Banissy, an award-winning professor and author of "Touch Matters," dives into the magic of human touch, revealing its vital role in our emotional well-being and stress relief. He discusses 'touch hunger' and how physical interactions can strengthen social bonds. Dr. Jillian Scudder, assistant professor of physics, shares astonishing cosmic facts, like the scent of the Milky Way and the possibility of rain made of diamonds on Neptune. Together, they explore how touch and the universe captivate and connect us.

Dr. Suzanne O’Sullivan, a consultant neurologist and author of 'The Age of Diagnosis,' discusses the perils of overdiagnosis and the anxiety that often accompanies unnecessary medical tests. She highlights the need for a patient-centered approach, emphasizing understanding rather than labeling. The conversation shifts to effective communication, led by Michael Chad Hoeppner, a communications expert. He shares innovative strategies to enhance verbal skills, encouraging listeners to build confidence and clarity when expressing themselves.

Gretchen Rubin, a renowned happiness expert and author, shares her insights on adulthood through memorable aphorisms, advocating for intentional social connections to find true joy. Dr. Drew Ramsey, a psychiatrist and pioneer in nutritional psychiatry, reveals how lifestyle, hydration, and nutrition significantly impact mental health. Together, they discuss the magic of comfort food and its role in well-being, while offering practical tips for enhancing mental fitness and unlocking personal success in adulthood. It's a conversation rich with wisdom and strategies for a fulfilling life.

Kelefa Sanneh, a writer for The New Yorker and former pop music critic for The New York Times, dives into the fascinating origins of popular music genres. He shares insights about the evolution of hip hop and the shifting perceptions of music over time. Additionally, he examines the interplay between fashion and identity, revealing how what we wear can influence our behavior. On the financial front, expert Jill Schlesinger discusses strategies for better money management, emphasizing the importance of scrutinizing spending habits for achieving financial security.