

The Next Big Idea
Next Big Idea Club
The Next Big Idea is a weekly series of in-depth interviews with the world’s leading thinkers. Join hosts Rufus Griscom and Caleb Bissinger — along with our curators, Malcolm Gladwell, Adam Grant, Susan Cain, and Daniel Pink — for conversations that might just change the way you see the world. New episodes every Thursday.
Episodes
Mentioned books

9 snips
Jul 18, 2024 • 53min
PROBABILITY: How a 250-Year-Old Theorem Still Explains the World
Exploring the 250-year-old Bayes' Theorem and its applications in predicting election results, Super Bowl scores, neuroscience, and artificial intelligence. Discussing the importance of Bayesian statistics in understanding the world around us and making accurate predictions in various fields. Delving into the significance of probability, consciousness, belief updating, and Bayesian evolution with intriguing insights and examples.

23 snips
Jul 11, 2024 • 53min
GOOD ENERGY (Part 2): Casey Means on How to Supercharge Your Diet
Casey Means, Stanford-trained physician and author of 'Good Energy', discusses optimizing health through nutrition, stabilizing blood sugar levels, choosing healthy oils, benefits of fermented foods, exercise, and mindset shift. She also explores fearlessness in health conversations and interconnectedness in dietary choices.

24 snips
Jul 8, 2024 • 55min
GOOD ENERGY (Part 1): How to Feel Incredible, Avoid Disease, and Age Well
Learn how simple changes in diet and exercise can improve metabolic health, combat diseases, and enhance overall well-being. Discover the flaws in the healthcare system, the importance of monitoring biomarkers, and empowering individuals to manage their health through blood sugar tracking. Explore the link between energy production, lifestyle choices, and metabolic health in this insightful interview.

18 snips
Jul 4, 2024 • 1h 3min
BEN FRANKLIN: A Founder's Formula for a Long and Useful Life
Author Eric Weiner explores the multifaceted life of Benjamin Franklin, highlighting his achievements in printing, science, diplomacy, and invention. The podcast delves into Franklin's transition from a British subject to an American rebel, emphasizing his role in the revolutionary sentiment and the start of the war. Learn about Franklin's establishment of the Leather Apron Club, his self-improvement routine, and lessons on authenticity and self-awareness derived from his life.

37 snips
Jun 27, 2024 • 1h 24min
Bill Gates Says Superhuman AI May Be Closer Than You Think
Bill Gates and tech experts discuss the future of AI, its impact on healthcare, education, and business. They explore AI's potential to cure diseases, enhance creativity, and usher in abundance. Topics include AI risks, advancements, and the need for effective regulation.

28 snips
Jun 20, 2024 • 41min
FRICTION: How Smart Leaders Make the Right Things Easier (with Adam Grant & Bob Sutton)
Renowned organizational psychologist Adam Grant and author Bob Sutton discuss making the right things easier for effective leadership. They explore the importance of friction, hands-on leadership, balancing inquiry and advocacy, leadership decisions, prioritizing health, problem-solving, and eliminating negative friction in organizations.

11 snips
Jun 13, 2024 • 1h 10min
INFERNAL MACHINE: Dynamite, Anarchy and the Future of Creativity
Author Steven Johnson discusses the history of dynamite, anarchism, and crime-fighting in New York City, touching on the evolution of forensic technology and the unintended consequences of innovation. He also talks about the development of AI tools for writers and the interplay between creativity and artificial intelligence in generating ideas.

32 snips
Jun 6, 2024 • 46min
UNCERTAINTY: The Surprising Power of Being Unsure
Author Maggie Jackson discusses the power of embracing uncertainty in leadership, relationships, and creativity. She explores how uncertainty can enhance persuasion and provide a leadership edge. The conversation highlights the benefits of uncertainty in personal growth, creativity, and adapting to new opportunities.

27 snips
May 30, 2024 • 1h 8min
EDUCATION 4o: How AI Will Revolutionize the Way We Learn
Sal Khan, founder of Khan Academy and author of 'Brave New Words: How AI Will Revolutionize Education, discusses the potential of AI tutors to personalize education, improve classroom effectiveness, and combat cheating. He explores the benefits, challenges, and ethical considerations of AI-powered education, emphasizing the importance of human teachers in balancing potential and risks. The podcast also delves into the intersection of human creativity and artificial intelligence, showcasing how AI can enhance creativity through collaboration and revolutionize industries like filmmaking and recruitment.

6 snips
May 23, 2024 • 1h 4min
AFTERLIFE: Sebastian Junger’s Journey to the Edge and Back
Bestselling author Sebastian Junger shares his near-death experience and exploration of the afterlife. He delves into near-death encounters, reflection on risk in journalism, and the impact of surviving a life-threatening event. Through personal anecdotes and scientific research, he challenges conventional views on mortality and consciousness.