Clearer Thinking with Spencer Greenberg

Join Matt Grossmann, Director of the Institute for Public Policy and Social Research, as he delves into the state of social science. He discusses the difficulties in studying human behavior versus other sciences and the ongoing replication crisis affecting credibility. Grossmann highlights advancements in methodologies and the challenges in political predictions, particularly post-2016 election. The conversation also touches on the importance of diversity in perspectives and the evolving self-reflection within research communities, especially amidst the recent pandemic.

Sara Ness, an internationally known facilitator and community builder who popularized Authentic Relating, shares fascinating insights into effective communication. She introduces innovative 'relating languages' that help bridge cultural gaps. The conversation highlights the importance of emotional awareness in dialogue and discusses the intricacies of personality typologies. Sara elaborates on mastering authentic communication, revealing how understanding our internal dialogues can lead to deeper connections. She offers strategies for enhancing emotional intelligence and navigating diverse interaction styles.

Elizabeth Ricker, author of "Smarter Tomorrow" and founder of Neuroeducate, dives into the fascinating world of self-experimentation for cognitive enhancement. She discusses how dietary changes can alleviate brain fog and improve decision-making skills. Ricker also explores the effectiveness of brain games and the potential of nootropics for mental performance. Delving into neurostimulation techniques, she emphasizes the value of personalized approaches to cognitive health. Tune in for insights on how to hack your brain for better thinking and creativity!

Samo Burja, the founder of Bismarck Analysis and a seasoned researcher at the Long Now Foundation, dives into the forces that shape civilizations. He discusses the intriguing concept of 'long history', revealing how ancient agricultural practices intertwine with societal development. Samo evaluates why civilizations collapse, linking knowledge transmission and governance quality to their longevity. He warns of modern pitfalls, comparing contemporary challenges to those faced by ancient empires, and introduces the 'great founder' theory as essential for building resilient institutions.

In this engaging discussion, Joe Carlsmith, a research analyst at Open Philanthropy and a doctoral student at Oxford, explores the elusive concept of utopia. He probes into our aspirations versus the pitfalls of idealism, emphasizing the need for a dynamic understanding of a shared future. Carlsmith delves into the ethics of existence, raising questions about procreation and its moral implications. He contrasts 'wholehearted morality' with guilt-laden moral frameworks, inviting listeners to rethink ethical engagement, non-attachment, and the intricacies of consciousness.

Oliver Burkeman, author of 'Four Thousand Weeks' and former Guardian columnist, dives into the power of embracing our limitations as a pathway to fulfillment. He discusses why rethinking our lifespan in weeks can be a wake-up call and the deeper insights it offers about prioritizing what truly matters. The conversation explores how mindfulness can counteract the 'importance trap,' along with the paradox of patience in a fast-paced world. Burkeman provides strategies for navigating overwhelming to-do lists while making room for meaningful moments.

Andy Matuschak, inventor and former R&D leader at Khan Academy, shares his insights on learning and memory retention. He delves into the effectiveness of spaced repetition compared to traditional methods and discusses using flashcards to engage with complex concepts. Matuschak emphasizes the value of internalizing knowledge in an age of instant information and debates the importance of memory in fostering creativity. He also explores the innovative world of paraacademia, advocating for more support for radical ideas outside conventional academia.

Aurora Quinn-Elmore, an executive producer focused on expanding access to psychedelic therapies, discusses fascinating concepts like metamodernism and spiral dynamics. She explores the shadow self and how our reactions reveal inner truths. The conversation delves into the connection between trauma and physical health, emphasizing healing through introspection. Aurora also touches on the therapeutic potential of psychedelics, the shifting landscape of substance legalization, and the joys of multi-generational co-living, promoting deep connections without substances.

Catie Cuan is a dancer, choreographer, and PhD candidate in Mechanical Engineering at Stanford, blending art with technology. She discusses the fascinating intersection of dance and robotics, exploring how dance vocabulary can enhance robotic movement. Catie also delves into the challenges of programming robots to dance and the potential of virtual reality in training them. Additionally, she examines the future of robotics in everyday life and emphasizes the critical role of human collaboration in creative processes with AI.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Anthony David Adams, a visionary and mental health activist, dives into the fascinating interplay between psychedelics and consciousness. He explores metaphysical geometry and the transformative power of fear, emphasizing how surrendering to intense emotions can lead to personal growth. The conversation touches on the value of psychosis, challenges societal perceptions of altered states, and proposes oxytocin as an alternative to MDMA for therapy. Throughout, Adams advocates for a more accepting culture surrounding mental health and psychedelics.