Simine Vazire, a leading psychologist specializing in personality and self-assessment, delves into the progress and challenges within the field of psychology. She discusses the complexities surrounding the Big Five personality traits and the biases in self-reporting. The conversation also touches on the importance of transparency in research, addressing the replication crisis and the ethical dilemmas in academic publishing. Vazire emphasizes the need for reforms in research practices to enhance credibility and the reliability of psychological findings.

Mike Maples, an influential investor and co-founder of FLOODGATE, dives into the nitty-gritty of startup success. He discusses common investor pitfalls and the pivotal role of a startup's team versus its idea. Maples highlights what makes an idea 'pattern-breaking' and the unique traits of successful founders, including their resilience to feedback. He explores why some regions outshine the U.S. in unicorn startups and how storytelling can shape a startup's journey. Plus, learn why not every charismatic narrative leads to success.

Dan Epstein, a medical doctor and PhD expert in decision-making and game design, dives into the unseen choices we make and the importance of aligning them with our values. He discusses how healthcare decisions can reflect personal priorities and shares innovative strategies, like tabletop exercises, to enhance our decision-making skills. The conversation also explores how play-testing our decisions can lead to growth, while providing feedback dynamics rooted in game design. Finally, Epstein emphasizes the value of diverse perspectives and the balancing act of fun and learning in educational games.

Nick Bostrom, a renowned philosopher and founder of the Macrostrategy Research Initiative, discusses why dystopian scenarios dominate our imagination over utopias. He explores the challenges of defining ideal societies and the paradox of abundance amidst scarcity. The conversation includes the impact of AI on human purpose, how advanced technology might reshape emotional connections, and the ethical governance needed to navigate future risks. Bostrom also ponders profound questions like our potential future in a simulation and the quest for deeper fulfillment in life.

Anders Sandberg, a prominent researcher in neuroethics and the future of humanity, shares insights on how our energy consumption shapes civilization. He delves into the surprising possibility of decoupling economic growth from fossil fuel usage. The conversation explores the limits of physics, including the speed of light and entropy, while tackling misconceptions around black holes and quantum mechanics. Additionally, Sandberg discusses the implications of advanced alien civilizations and the potential risks they pose, alongside the concept of panspermia and the preservation of human knowledge.

Thomas Thwaites, an innovative design researcher, shares his quirky journey of constructing a toaster from scratch, which reveals the complexities behind simple products. He reflects on existential themes, pondering whether we possess more knowledge than our ancestors. Thwaites humorously explores the idea of becoming a goat to escape human complexities, discussing how animals may experience less existential dread. He also tackles the challenge of creating a harmless car, emphasizing the philosophical implications of our technological designs and their alignment with human values.

Adam Russell, Director of the AI Division at USC's ISI, dives into the concept of 'apocaloptimism,' exploring the balance between fears and hopes surrounding AI. He discusses the importance of ethical considerations in AI development and introduces 'quorum intelligence,' highlighting collective over individual intelligence. Russell also emphasizes cognitive diversity's role in enhancing decision-making and the necessity of collaboration between social and computer sciences for responsible AI integration. This conversation urges a thoughtful approach to navigating our AI-infused future.

Daniel Lakens, an expert in social science research, discusses trust in top journals, challenges in psychological theories, limitations of peer review, ethical research principles, and the future of social science collaboration.

Joseph Henrich, an expert in psychology and culture, discusses the differences between WEIRD and non-WEIRD cultures, including cognitive skills, moral reasoning, and innovation. Topics cover individualism vs. collectivism, cultural diversity, and the influence of individualism on social connections and ambition. The conversation also touches on risk-taking behaviors, moral judgments, and the replication crisis in psychology.

Spencer, a money & happiness expert, discusses the correlation between income and well-being, the impact of hype and value on success, toxic relationship warning signs, and promoting integrity in scientific research through pre-registration and registered reports. The podcast delves into decision-making principles, tools for clearer thinking, and the accuracy of astrology in predicting life outcomes.