Something You Should Know

David Galenson, a University of Chicago economics professor and author of "Innovators," dives into the mindset of great innovators like Steve Jobs, discussing their unique thought processes and the impact of their ideas. Meanwhile, journalist Sam Parker, author of "Good Anger," explores the complexities of anger, encouraging healthier expressions and resolutions. Together, they highlight the importance of innovation's collaborative nature and offer insights on transforming anger into a constructive force in our lives.

David Carbonell, a clinical psychologist and author of The Worry Trick, discusses why we often expect the worst, revealing how our brains are wired to worry. He shares practical strategies to break the cycle of anxiety. Meanwhile, Sarah Hyndman, a graphic designer and author of Why Fonts Matter, explores the unexpected power of fonts, showing how they can influence feelings and behavior, even in subtle ways. The conversation intertwines psychology and design, offering insights into how we can better understand our thoughts and our interactions with the world.

Noah Giansiracusa, an associate professor of mathematics, unpacks the complex world of algorithms and their subtle influence on our decisions, urging listeners to regain control. Joseph Jebelli, a neuroscientist, emphasizes the overlooked benefits of doing nothing, highlighting its power to boost creativity and overall well-being. Together, they explore the intersection of technology and rest, challenging the notion that constant work is the key to success and advocating for intentional breaks to enhance cognitive function.

James Danckert, a psychology professor and author of 'Out of My Skull,' explores the depths of boredom, discussing its nature, purpose, and surprising effects on mental health. He explains how boredom can serve as a motivational signal that prompts engagement. Meanwhile, Ken Carter, a board-certified clinical psychologist and author of 'Buzz!,' dives into the psyche of thrill-seekers, revealing their motivations and the physiological differences that drive their adrenaline-fueled pursuits. Together, they dissect the fine line between boredom and thrill-seeking behaviors.

Kim Zachman, writer and food enthusiast, dives into the quirky origins of beloved foods like hamburgers, hot dogs, and cream soda, revealing that there's no cream in cream soda and where chicken fingers really come from. Joining her is Tobias Rose Stockwell, a researcher discussing his book 'Outrage Machine,' who explores how social media amplifies feelings of outrage and its impacts on democracy. Together, they uncover how our favorite snacks and online reactions shape our world in humorous and thought-provoking ways.

Cultural historian Tiffany Jenkins, author of 'Strangers and Intimates', dives into the fascinating evolution of personal privacy, revealing how our modern expectations are a relatively new phenomenon. She discusses the historical perceptions of private life and the ongoing tension between public exposure and personal space. Joining her is Risa Williams, a psychotherapist who offers practical time management strategies, emphasizing the need to balance work and personal time. Together, they provide valuable insights for navigating today's fast-paced world.

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.

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.

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.

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.