Clearer Thinking with Spencer Greenberg

Spencer Greenberg
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102 snips
May 14, 2025 • 1h 16min

Misinformation from all sides (with Brian Dunning)

Brian Dunning, host of the Skeptoid podcast and author, dives into the murky waters of misinformation. He explores the thin line between belief and deception, highlighting how even well-intentioned claims can spread falsehoods. Dunning discusses conspiracy theories, weighing their credibility against historical truths. The conversation shifts to the legacies of figures like Nikola Tesla and the allure of UAPs, emphasizing critical thinking. Lastly, he underscores the human struggle with misinformation and the need for empathy in combating skepticism.
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36 snips
May 7, 2025 • 1h 15min

A conversation with a rigid perfectionist who has OCPD (with Darryl Rossignol)

Darryl Rossignol, founder of The OCPD Foundation, shares his personal journey with obsessive-compulsive personality disorder (OCPD). He dives into the emotional toll of perfectionism and black-and-white thinking, revealing how these traits complicate relationships. The conversation explores how OCPD differs from OCD and the unique challenges it presents. Darryl also offers insight into creating supportive environments for those struggling with OCPD, highlighting the importance of empathy, flexibility, and effective communication.
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31 snips
Apr 30, 2025 • 1h 7min

Simple and effective methods for helping people that nonprofits often ignore (with Kanika Bahl)

Kanika Bahl, CEO of Evidence Action and former leader at the Clinton Health Access Initiative, delves into the overlooked yet effective solutions in nonprofit work. She discusses why nonprofits often bypass simple methods, emphasizing the importance of cost-effective health interventions like deworming programs. Bahl highlights the long-term economic impact of these initiatives and the complexities of behavioral change. The conversation also touches on the challenges of funding and the need for evidence-based approaches in philanthropy.
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80 snips
Apr 23, 2025 • 1h 19min

How to unleash student potential in education (with Jack Despain Zhou)

Jack Despain Zhou, cofounder of the Center for Educational Progress, discusses the stagnation in U.S. education and the need for reform. He questions the effectiveness of standardized tests and advocates for ability-based grouping to enhance student learning. Zhou explores the disconnect between cognitive science and classroom practices, stressing the importance of evidence-based methods. He also critiques the No Child Left Behind act and its unintended consequences, highlighting the need for innovative and personalized teaching strategies.
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101 snips
Apr 20, 2025 • 1h 43min

How f***ed is psychology? (with Adam Mastroianni)

Adam Mastroianni, a psychologist and metascientist known for his blog Experimental History, dives deep into psychology's challenges. He questions the high bar for new knowledge in the field and discusses the replication crisis's lessons. The dialogue explores the effectiveness of mega-studies and critiques traditional research methods. Mastroianni also advocates for transparency in scientific communication and explores innovative approaches to sharing research, emphasizing authenticity over academic norms.
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11 snips
Apr 10, 2025 • 1h 6min

A conversation with a multiple-time survivor of sexual abuse

This engaging discussion explores the complexities of sexual abuse and its lasting impact on survivors. Listeners learn about the psychological scars that linger after trauma, especially when the abuser is someone trusted. The conversation delves into the nuances of consent, emotional attachments to abusers, and societal misconceptions surrounding victimization. It also highlights the challenges faced by survivors in seeking support or legal recourse. Additionally, the episode offers valuable insights on how to compassionately support friends who have endured such experiences.
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22 snips
Apr 2, 2025 • 1h 11min

A story can change the world (with Elizabeth Cox)

Elizabeth Cox, founder of Should We Studio and former TED-Ed producer, delves into the power of storytelling for societal change. She discusses how narratives can shape public awareness, particularly in complex issues like climate change and mental health. The conversation highlights the fine line between compelling storytelling and misleading narratives, emphasizing the impact of relatable stories on engagement. Cox also explores the multifaceted nature of depression and critiques conventional treatments, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of mental health.
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147 snips
Mar 28, 2025 • 1h 37min

The heavy price you'll have to pay to have a healthy relationship (with David Burns)

In this discussion, David Burns, an acclaimed psychiatrist and author of 'Feeling Good,' dives into the complex dynamics of romantic relationships. He reveals that blaming partners often leads to dissatisfaction and stresses the importance of personal accountability. Burns emphasizes the power of vulnerability, admitting mistakes, and self-acceptance for deeper connections. He also challenges misconceptions around personality disorders, highlighting their treatability and the potential for growth through empathy and understanding. Transforming communication patterns is key to a healthy relationship.
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207 snips
Mar 19, 2025 • 1h 22min

The skills every adult human should have (with Raffi Grinberg)

Raffi Grinberg, a business leader and educator, explores essential life skills for adulthood. He discusses the importance of mastering constructive disagreement, promoting empathy during conflicts. Relationships are redefined, emphasizing the need for commitment and growth over perfection. Grinberg also highlights critical financial skills, such as understanding taxes and investment strategies, advocating for financial literacy. Furthermore, he encourages embracing rejection as a path to personal growth and finding meaning in life through intentionality.
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72 snips
Mar 13, 2025 • 1h 7min

Rethinking our assumptions about happiness (with Stephanie Harrison)

Stephanie Harrison, founder of The New Happy and author of 'New Happy,' shares insights on rethinking happiness. She challenges common myths, arguing that success often leads to fleeting joy rather than lasting fulfillment. Discussing the impact of hyper-individualism, she emphasizes the importance of authentic connections and community support. Harrison also explores how societal pressures affect emotional expression, especially in men, and critiques beauty standards imposed on women. Ultimately, she advocates for embracing vulnerability and authenticity as pathways to true happiness.

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