Something You Should Know

Heather Radke, author of "Butts: A Backstory," delves into our cultural obsession with butt aesthetics, exploring shifting beauty standards and personal experiences. Marjorie Ingall, co-author of "Sorry, Sorry, Sorry: The Case for Good Apologies," discusses the anatomy of effective apologies, highlighting common pitfalls and how sincere communication can mend relationships. Together, they navigate societal pressures on body image and the psychological intricacies of saying sorry.

Sandra Matz, a Columbia Business School professor and author of "Mindmasters," reveals the shocking extent of personal data collection and how it's used for psychological targeting. Meanwhile, Scott Shigeoka, a curiosity expert from the University of Texas, discusses how deepening curiosity can enhance interpersonal relationships and promote personal growth. They also explore ethical concerns surrounding data privacy and the powerful transformative effects of curiosity in meaningful conversations. A thought-provoking dialogue that challenges the way we engage with both data and each other!

Rahmit Sethi, an accomplished author known for his books on personal finance, discusses the challenges couples face when talking about money. He shares strategies to transform these conversations into constructive dialogues, helping partners create a shared financial vision. Jonas Olofsson, a psychology professor, reveals fascinating insights into how smells influence our relationships and perceptions. From the science of scent to emotional connections, the discussion uncovers the surprising power aromas have in our lives.

Mike Rucker, an organizational psychologist and author of The Fun Habit, discusses how incorporating fun into our lives not only boosts happiness but also enhances well-being and productivity. He shares practical strategies for making time for fun amidst busy schedules. Kathy Joseph, a physics expert and author of The Lightning Tamers, delves into the captivating history of electricity, from Faraday's experiments to its impact on modern society. Together, they highlight the significance of joy and the power of understanding the forces that shape our daily lives.

Sumit Paul-Choudhury, former editor-in-chief of New Scientist and author of 'The Bright Side,' discusses how optimism shapes our lives and enhances well-being. He explores whether optimism is innate or learned and highlights its benefits for health and success. Joining him is Dr. Sunita Saw, an award-winning Cornell professor and author of 'Defy,' who champions the power of saying 'no' in a world that pressures conformity. She redefines defiance as a means to uphold one's values and encourages listeners to embrace constructive dissent.

In this engaging discussion, Janice Kaplan, a journalist and former Parade magazine editor, dives into the intriguing mind-body connection and its substantial effect on happiness. She reveals how bodily sensations can shape our emotional states and how spending time near water boosts well-being. Kaplan also reframes perfectionism as a struggle with self-worth rather than an ideal to achieve. Listeners discover practical strategies to manage self-criticism and foster joy through physical activity, ultimately enhancing their mental health.

Phil Barden, a marketing expert and author of "Decoded: The Science Behind Why We Buy," explains how emotional and psychological factors influence consumer behavior. He discusses the importance of brand loyalty, marketing tactics, and the role of familiarity in decision-making. Jennifer Cohen, author of "Bigger, Better, Bolder," shares insights on cultivating boldness and overcoming the fear of taking risks. Together, they explore how environmental context affects choices and emphasize the significance of seizing opportunities to avoid future regret.

Dan Heath, a speaker and writer focused on organizational change, joins alongside Steve Taylor, a psychology lecturer and author exploring the perception of time. They discuss how organizations often cling to outdated practices and strategies for initiating effective change. Heath shares insights on identifying 'leverage points' to break free from complacency. Taylor dives into the fascinating topic of time perception, revealing how our experiences can stretch or compress time, especially during intense moments like accidents or thrilling events.

Dr. Richard Johnson, a leading figure in obesity and diabetes research, discusses the evolution of weight loss science, emphasizing the crucial role of fructose and hydration. He reveals how traditional calorie-counting misguides efforts and explores effective strategies like carb restriction and intermittent fasting. Additionally, economist John List shares insights on the importance of scalability in business ideas, highlighting the differences between scalable and non-scalable concepts, and how adapting business strategies can ensure success.

Joining the discussion are Dimitris Xygalatas, an anthropologist and cognitive scientist at the University of Connecticut, and Daniel E. Lieberman, a professor of biological sciences at Harvard. They dive into why rituals are universal and vital for human connection and identity, even if they seem meaningless. Lieberman reveals the evolutionary struggle with modern exercise, pointing out that our ancestors didn’t work out like we do today, leading to a paradox of health versus avoidance. The conversation is a fascinating blend of psychology, culture, and biology.