The Next Big Idea

Exploring the power of generosity and kindness in a world dominated by negativity. Chris Anderson from TED talks about spreading infectious generosity. Learn about the impact of small acts of kindness and the science behind the instinct for giving. Discover how generosity can lead to personal happiness and societal unity.

Kara Swisher's memoir 'Burn Book' offers a witty perspective on her journey in tech journalism. The podcast delves into the evolution of Silicon Valley, tech founders' creativity vs. arrogance, and the extravagant social scenes of the industry. It also addresses power dynamics, lack of gratitude among influential figures, and the dynamics of wealth in tech innovation.

Learn how to have better conversations with insights from Pulitzer Prize winner Charles Duhigg, exploring the power of vulnerability and deep questioning, emotional intelligence in astronaut selection, the evolution of laughter, and navigating hard conversations as a nation.

The podcast explores how midlife can be a period of renewal, joy, and connection, challenging the common view of aging as a crisis. It discusses embracing age fluidity, turning challenges into opportunities for growth, and the importance of community support. The narrative delves into redefining midlife by emphasizing psychological factors, self-reflection, and intergenerational collaboration. It also touches on mortality, reprioritization, finding meaning, and the positive aspects of aging.

In this podcast, Kim Scott, author of 'Radical Candor: Be a Kick-Ass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity,' discusses the importance of honesty and direct feedback. She explores topics such as the misunderstanding of Radical Candor, the dilemma of kindness, the response to diversity programs, the value of effective feedback, changing power dynamics, innovation, the applicability of Radical Candor in parenting, and finding value in work and honesty.

In this podcast, Chris Dixon argues that blockchains and web3 enable an open platform for creativity and entrepreneurship, despite the association with scams. The chapters cover ownership, blockchain's impact on the internet's evolution, security, timing, and AI vs. blockchain. It explores the potential future of blockchain technology in various industries and the need to guide its development.

Rajiv Shah, former administrator of USAID, shares his methodology for creating large-scale change and making the world a better place. He discusses his big bet mentality and how it led to immunizing 900 million children and saving 16 million lives. The podcast explores the culture and approach of the Gates Foundation, the importance of collaboration and inclusivity during crises, and the power of setting bold goals and forming unlikely partnerships for transformative actions. Rajiv also discusses the relevance of his lessons for the private sector and emphasizes the correlation between generosity and happiness.

A data scientist from the University of Oxford explains why she is optimistic about building a sustainable world. The podcast discusses climate change, the shift from pessimism to optimism, and the power of tech solutions. It explores the transition to electric vehicles, the environmental impact of eating meat, and the importance of individual and political action in combating climate change. The chapter also analyzes environmentally-friendly choices for dishwashers and online shopping.

Robert Sapolsky, a professor at Stanford and recipient of the MacArthur 'genius' award, discusses the illusion of free will and his book 'Determined.' He explores how the abandonment of volition can lead to a more humane world. The podcast examines the evolution of punishment, understanding human behavior, criminal justice reform, and the importance of discouraging bad behavior. It also delves into confirmation bias, finding existential joy, and the relationship between empathy, science, and free will.

James Clear, bestselling author of Atomic Habits, breaks down the science of habit formation into simple, actionable steps. He talks about the four laws of behavior change, how small improvements compound over time, and offers tips to kick bad habits and adopt good ones.