The Next Big Idea

Discover how happiness is the ultimate measure of success from a Harvard expert. Learn to manage your life like a startup, focusing on your personal and professional growth. Uncover strategies to navigate the tricky intersection of work and life, enhancing both self-awareness and communication to combat burnout. Explore the concept of integrating work and life for a more fulfilling experience, redefining success through meaningful relationships and continuous personal development.

Laura Huang, a distinguished professor of management at Northeastern University, dives deep into the science of intuition and decision-making. She reveals that intuition is not just a random occurrence but a skill that successful individuals hone over time. Listeners learn practical techniques to enhance their gut feelings, like the coin flip method, and discover the unexpected benefits of reading fiction to strengthen emotional understanding. Huang emphasizes the importance of self-trust and the transformative power of 'jolt moments' that can redirect our life paths.

Sam Keen, a science writer and author of 'Dinner with King Tut', takes listeners on a thrilling journey into experimental archaeology. He discusses how rogue archaeologists are reviving ancient civilizations through hands-on activities like brewing beer and mummifying animals. Keen explores the culinary wonders of the past at the Buckland Club, featuring bizarre dishes like badger ham, and dives into the complexities of Roman cuisine. The conversation highlights the passion behind experimental archaeology, encouraging a deeper connection with history and our shared human experience.

Emily Falk, a neuroscientist at the University of Pennsylvania, dives into the intricacies of our brain's value calculations. She discusses how understanding these subconscious processes can help bridge the gap between our desired selves and our daily choices. Falk explores the powerful influence social norms have on our behaviors and self-perception, and shares insights on using accountability partners to boost motivation. She emphasizes the importance of mindfulness and values affirmation to align our actions with core beliefs, fostering both personal growth and community empathy.

In this conversation, Eric Topol, a renowned cardiologist and author of Super Agers, dives into vital health topics. He discusses how to optimize sleep, especially for older adults, and the alarming effects of microplastics on our health. The transformative role of GLP-1 medications is highlighted, with potential benefits ranging from addiction treatment to migraine reduction. Topol also explores the future of AI in healthcare, emphasizing its efficiency and the critical need for preventative strategies to enhance longevity.

Eric Topol, a cardiologist and author of 'Super Agers,' dives into the secrets of exceptional longevity. He reveals insights from his research on 1,400 healthy individuals over 80, challenging the idea that genetics solely dictate lifespan. Key discussions include the vital role of lifestyle choices like diet and exercise, the surprising importance of grip strength for predicting health, and the necessity of balance in fitness. Topol also critiques supplements and explores nutrition's impact on aging, all while encouraging proactive health measures at any age.

Helen Lewis, a staff writer at The Atlantic and author of The Genius Myth, challenges the traditional notion of genius that elevates individuals over achievements. She discusses how labeling someone a genius often breeds elitism and harmful behavior. By highlighting the collaborative nature of creativity, she critiques famous historical narratives and the pitfalls of lone genius myths. The conversation also navigates the dark side of Silicon Valley success and explores how chance and community play vital roles in innovation, reshaping our understanding of what genius truly means.

Kevin Kelly, co-founder of Wired and author of 'Excellent Advice for Living', shares his treasure trove of wisdom in this engaging conversation. He emphasizes that enthusiasm can elevate intelligence and encourages embracing the quirks of one’s youth as potential strengths. Kelly discusses the evolving perception of technology, expressing optimism even in the face of AI advancements. He highlights the transformative power of kindness and community support while advocating for vulnerability and honesty in personal storytelling. Tune in for valuable life insights!

Andy Sack, a co-founder of Forum3 and former advisor to Microsoft, joins Adam Brotman, ex-chief digital officer at Starbucks, to discuss the imminent impact of AI. They argue that AI isn't just a tool but a revolutionary wave that must be embraced or risk being left behind. The duo emphasizes practical strategies to integrate AI into daily life, enhancing productivity and creativity. They also explore how organizations must adapt to AI's transformative effects and reinforce the value of human connection amidst the rise of technology.

In this engaging conversation, Michael Lewis, a prominent American non-fiction author known for works like Moneyball and The Big Short, shares his insights on Sam Bankman-Fried and the FTX collapse. He offers a nuanced view of Sam, challenging the idea of him as merely a villain. Lewis reflects on storytelling, blending humor with sorrow, and emphasizes how taking pleasure in life's complexities fuels his creativity. He also touches on themes of morality, public perception, and the intricate relationship between philanthropy and politics.