Christine Rosen, a Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and author of "The Extinction of Experience," dives into the risks posed by technology to vital human connections. She discusses how digital interactions challenge real-world relationships and the ethical concerns surrounding AI. The conversation explores the resurgence of community spaces post-pandemic and the diminishing skills like handwriting. Rosen urges a balance between benefiting from technology and reclaiming the essential experiences that shape our identity.

In this episode, Tom Asacker, an insightful author and advisor known for his work on desire and human behavior, delves deep into the paradox of what we truly want. He explores how our conditioned desires are manipulated by marketers and societal norms, encouraging self-reflection to achieve authenticity. Tom discusses the eerie parallels between AI and human thought patterns, emphasizing the limitations of AI in providing genuine emotional support. He invites listeners to reshape their inner dialogues and examine the societal pressures that shape their motivations.

Tamsen Webster, a messaging expert and author, explores the art of unforgettable communication. She emphasizes building understanding before seeking agreement, revealing how storytelling connects us while addressing polarization challenges. Tamsen discusses the evolution of narratives in a tech-driven world and critiques oversimplified character portrayals. With her insights, she advocates for deeper conversations, balancing emotional resonance and rationality to foster genuine dialogue and lasting change.

Daniel J. Levitin, a neuroscientist, musician, and bestselling author, dives into the compelling connections between music and the brain. He explores music's evolutionary roots and its therapeutic power in enhancing physical and emotional health. Discussing the unpredictable nature of success in the music industry, he highlights the balance of luck and talent. Levitin also navigates the shift in music consumption from albums to streaming and emphasizes how music continues to serve as a vital force in our lives.

Richard Cytowic, a renowned neurologist and author known for exploring synesthesia, delves into our brain's struggle with modern technology. He discusses how our Stone Age instincts clash with today's smartphone addiction, emphasizing the impact on attention spans and social interactions. Cytowic unveils the allure of endless scrolling on social media and its psychological effects, while advocating for balance and boundaries in our tech-driven lives. He shares insights on reconnecting with nature to foster mental clarity and creativity.

Sandra Matz, a computational social scientist and professor at Columbia Business School, dives into the fascinating intersection of algorithms and human behavior. She discusses the power of data in shaping decisions, revealing both empowering and chilling implications. The conversation highlights privacy issues in the digital age, the ethics of algorithmic influence, and the responsibility of tech firms. Sandra also reflects on her new book, 'Mindmasters,' emphasizing a balanced approach to leveraging technology while protecting individuality and creativity.

Seth Godin, best-selling author and influential thinker, shares his insights on strategy and the power of storytelling. He emphasizes strategy as a philosophical journey, vital for creating emotional connections with audiences. Godin discusses the importance of empathy in transforming business practices and highlights the impact of nostalgia on strategic thinking. Additionally, he reflects on navigating creativity with authenticity while addressing climate challenges in the tech industry. His approach inspires a more humane decision-making process in both business and life.

Rebecca Homkes, a high-growth strategy specialist and advisor to top firms, shares her expertise on navigating business uncertainties. She discusses her framework, 'Survive, Reset, Thrive', which helps organizations adopt effective midterm strategies. Highlighting the distinction between traditional and agile companies, she emphasizes the need for adaptive growth tactics and continuous learning. Homkes also examines how AI is shifting workplace dynamics and the importance of resilience in the face of challenges, using personal stories as powerful illustrations.

Welcome to episode #958 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Greg Epstein is not your average chaplain. As the Humanist Chaplain at both Harvard University and MIT, Greg bridges the gap between spirituality and secular life, offering a unique perspective that resonates deeply in today’s rapidly evolving world. With a rich background that spans philosophy, ethics, and humanism, Greg has become a beacon for those seeking meaning beyond traditional religious frameworks. In this conversation, Greg dives into his new book, Tech Agnostic - How Technology Became The World’s Most Powerful Religion, And Why It Desperately Needs A Reformation (his first book is: Good Without God - What A Billion Nonreligious People Do Believe). Picture this: technology has ascended to the status of a global deity, worshipped and unquestioned. Greg challenges this reverence, urging us to adopt a stance of skepticism and agnosticism towards our digital overlords. He doesn’t advocate for abandoning technology but rather for a thoughtful and ethical approach to its integration into our lives. Greg draws on his extensive experience advising corporations, government agencies, and non-profits to highlight the ethical dilemmas posed by unchecked technological advancement. He likens the current tech-driven era to a modern-day religious movement, complete with its own set of beliefs, rituals, and moral codes. However, unlike traditional religions that offer community and purpose, technology often isolates us, fostering a superficial connection that lacks depth and genuine human interaction. Throughout our conversation, Greg emphasizes the importance of critical thinking and ethical accountability in shaping the future of technology. He challenges leaders and innovators to ask the tough questions: Who benefits from this technology? What are the unintended consequences? How can we ensure that advancements serve the greater good rather than narrow interests? Tech Agnostic is more than just a critique of our tech-obsessed society; it’s a call to action for a reimagined relationship with technology - one that prioritizes human values, ethical integrity, and meaningful connections. Greg’s insights are both timely and timeless, offering a roadmap for navigating the complexities of our digital age with wisdom and compassion. If you’re grappling with the pervasive influence of technology in your personal or professional life, Greg’s perspectives offer a refreshing and necessary counterbalance. His work serves as a reminder that amidst the rapid advancements and digital transformations, our humanity remains our most valuable asset. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:01:19. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Greg Epstein. Tech Agnostic - How Technology Became The World’s Most Powerful Religion, And Why It Desperately Needs A Reformation. Good Without God - What A Billion Nonreligious People Do Believe. Follow Greg on X. Follow Greg on LinkedIn. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction to Humanism and Technology. (15:05) - The Intersection of Technology and Religion. (29:48) - Workism: The New Religion? (45:00) - AI and the Future of Human Interaction. (01:00:07) - Personal Reflections and Conclusion.

Welcome to episode #957 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Brigid Schulte is an award-winning journalist and bestselling author who has spent her career delving into the intricacies of modern life, particularly the challenges of balancing work, love, and play. With nearly 17 years at The Washington Post, where she was part of a team that won The Pulitzer Prize, Brigid has written for a myriad of publications including The Atlantic, The Guardian, Time, and Slate. Her work often focuses on the unsustainable pace of our always-on culture and the societal narratives that shape our perceptions of success and fulfillment. In this conversation, Brigid discusses her latest book, Over Work - Transforming The Daily Grind In The Quest For A Better Life (her first book was, Overwhelmed - Work, Love, And Play When No One Has Time). She explores how, despite advancements meant to make life easier, many of us feel more pressed for time than ever. The pandemic, she notes, has been a catalyst in reshaping our understanding of work and its true value. It has highlighted stark disparities between knowledge workers who can work remotely and low-wage workers who often face systemic barriers to advancement. Brigid challenges the long-held belief that longer hours equate to better work, emphasizing that this narrative is flawed and detrimental. Workers today are increasingly seeking meaningful and dignified work, and leadership plays a crucial role in shaping a culture that supports this. We delve into how technology, while disruptive, also has the potential to create new job opportunities - but only if we rethink how we value different types of work. If you're interested in understanding the complexities of modern work culture and exploring actionable ways to create a more balanced and fulfilling life, Brigid's insights are both enlightening and timely. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:01:17. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Brigid Schulte. Over Work - Transforming The Daily Grind In The Quest For A Better Life. Overwhelmed - Work, Love, And Play When No One Has Time. Follow Brigid on X. Follow Brigid on LinkedIn. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Chapters: (00:00) - Introduction to Overwork and Its Context. (03:02) - The Impact of the Pandemic on Work Culture. (05:52) - The Reality of Low-Wage Work. (08:53) - The Illusion of Job Abundance. (12:00) - The Disconnect Between Work and Wages. (15:10) - The Role of Technology in Future Work. (17:53) - Rethinking Work and Value. (23:51) - The Future of Work: Possibilities and Challenges. (27:13) - The Importance of Meaningful Work. (29:56) - Cultural Perceptions of Work. (36:06) - The Role of Leadership in Work Culture. (41:58) - The Question of Economic Growth. (48:09) - Grassroots Movements for Change. (50:51) - The Power of Stories in Work Culture. (56:56) - Conclusion and Reflections on Change.