Darren McKee, AI risk mitigation expert, discusses the failure of imagination in AI safety, the challenges of assigning probabilities to scenarios, the potential loss of control over AI, common misconceptions about AI control, and actions to mitigate AI risks.

AJ Crabill, an expert in education and student empowerment, discusses student-led restorative education, self-connection practice, and the tools students need for success. They explore the role of violence, the biggest problems in education, and fostering student agency. They also discuss techniques for discussing controversial topics, managing stress with the Mindease app, and maximizing individual potential for global progress.

Math educator and author Eugenia Cheng discusses the goals of math education, the importance of clear thinking skills, misconceptions about math, understanding math at deeper levels, the benefits of learning math, rethinking math education, exploring different starting points, the influence of probability theory and optimization theory, continuing to learn, and breaking down complex skills.

Eric Zimmer, behavior coach, joins the podcast to discuss values, principles, and behavior change. They explore the parable of the two wolves, the concept of valuism, and intrinsic values. They also delve into the challenges of behavior change, including how to make changes more persistent and less vulnerable to ups and downs in life. The speakers discuss the importance of identifying and managing personal values, the conflicts that arise, and techniques for resolving conflicts. They also explore exploring third options in decision-making, categorizing values, and applying behavior change at both the individual and societal level.

Daniella Mestyanek Young, former cult member, discusses growing up in the Children of God cult and the impact it had on her life. Topics include cult practices, food control in cults and the military, the use of fear to manipulate members, seeking justice against a cult, joining the military after leaving a high control group, prevalence of sexual violence in the military, and group behavior.

Liv Boeree, professional poker player and effective altruist, discusses the concept of Moloch and unhealthy competition. They explore the value of answering open-ended questions and resolving harmful belief systems. The podcast also covers solving coordination problems and reflects on the idea of win-win. Additionally, they discuss exploring the woo spectrum and addressing loneliness in the modern world.

In this episode, Justin Smith-Ruiu and host Spencer Greenberg discuss the impact of technological innovations, the decline of the academic humanities, and the trade-offs of technological progress. They explore perspectives on gender differences, reflect on the desire to attack the modern world, and delve into the decline of art and the rise of financialization. The conversation touches on algorithmic art, the significance of literacy, and the net gains of technology over time.

Ashley Mears, sociologist, discusses the social phenomena at nightclubs, including the motivations behind extravagant spending, the influence of gender dynamics, and the parallel between nightclub promotion and sex work. The podcast also explores the use of status and competition in nightclubs, the impact of labels and women's experiences, the racial diversity among clients and promoters, and the status competition in academia. COVID-19 and the prevalence of long COVID are briefly touched upon.

Richard Bruns, an environmental expert, discusses the impact of air quality on health, including the dangers of PM2.5 particles and the importance of effective air filters. They also explore the effects of bad air quality on cognitive performance and the process of drug approval. Additionally, they touch on topics like side-effect labeling for medications and the relationship between kindness and morality.

Journalist Dylan Matthews discusses the potential of large language models in journalism, the impact of AI on income inequality, and the challenges faced by news media. They explore the use of AI in writing marketing copy, the rise and fall of digital media companies, and the evolution of news media in the US. They also touch on the risks of AI, podcast listening preferences, and the future of journalism in the age of collapsing business models.