Something You Should Know

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Join author Dan Schreiber, known for his quirky podcast 'No Such Thing as a Fish', as he shares bizarre stories like how a U.S. President foiled an assassination and Ringo Starr's unique drumming rooted in exorcisms. Sally Jenkins, a seasoned columnist for The Washington Post, discusses how insights from elite athletes about pressure and resilience can be applied to everyday life. Together, they weave a fascinating tapestry of strange events and valuable life lessons, exploring the extraordinary in the ordinary.

In this engaging discussion, Karyn Light-Gibson, an educator and author, reveals how insects are essential to our ecosystem, acting as the backbone of food production. Meanwhile, Keith Houston, author of a book on emoji history, dives into the evolution of these digital icons, explaining how their meanings can change based on context and usage. Together, they explore the fascinating interconnectedness of bugs and modern communication, highlighting how both shape our world in unexpected ways.

Stefan Koelsch, a renowned neuroscientist and music psychologist, discusses the profound healing power of music. He explains how music can alleviate conditions like depression and Parkinson's disease, enhancing mental wellness. Matt Richtel, a Pulitzer Prize-winning health reporter, delves into the challenges of adolescence, exploring the brain changes that drive risky behaviors. Together, they emphasize the importance of music in regulating emotions during these tumultuous years and highlight the critical need for support as teens navigate their identities.

Alden Wicker, an award-winning journalist and author of 'To Die For', dives into the hidden dangers of toxic chemicals in clothing and their impact on health. She highlights how common treatments in fashion could be making us sick. Joining her is Roger Kreuz, a psychology professor and author of 'Failure to Communicate', who explores the nuances of miscommunication in our digital age. They discuss how tone and context can alter messages and even lead to misunderstandings in everyday conversations.