The Purpose Made Podcast

Is it ever too late to learn? What is the science behind how to change your brain? And what if the key to reshaping our brains and altering our perspectives lies within our grasp, regardless of our years?This is the fascinating life’s work of today’s esteemed guest, Dr. Lara Boyd.Dr. Lara Boyd, a Neuroscientist and Physical Therapist at the University of British Columbia, is an expert in mapping how our behaviours, environments, and experiences shape our brain health and learning capabilities.During this episode, Dr. Boyd guides us through the science behind neuroplasticity, highlighting the brain's inherent ability to rewire itself and learn new skills at any age. She emphasises that everything we do and encounter is continuously shaping our brains.Her work focuses on the impact of exercise and learning on our neurobiology, showcasing the profound effects these activities have on optimising our brain function. Dr. Boyd's research sheds light on how we can leverage our physical bodies to access and enhance different states of mind.In a world where stress, anxiety, and burnout are prevalent, Dr. Boyd's insights offer a beacon of hope for better self-regulation and human evolution. She shows us that we have the power to shape our brains in ways that align with our desires and aspirations."We only have one brain. We can shape it however we choose. So go out and build the brain you want." - Dr Lara BoydTimestamps:00:00:00 - Introduction00:00:50 - Background To Dr Boyd00:01:27 - What drove Dr Boyd’s focus on Neuroplasticity & Human Physiology00:03:53 - How do we learn?00:05:25 - Misconceptions about Neuroplasticity?00:07:56 - White Matter, Human Critical Physiology and Anatomy00:13:00 - Can a Vaccine for The Epstein–Barr Virus Prevent Multiple Sclerosis?00:14:27 - Short vs. Long Term Memory Loss & Damage00:17:04 - Why Some People Find Learning Easier Than Others?00:23:44 - Trauma & Priming The Brain To Drive Neuroplasticity00:27:10 - Lessons from Post Stroke Trauma Studies, Neuroplasticity and Wider Society Learnings00:30:33 - The Study of Biomarkers & Remarkable Results00:35:37 - A Modern Epidemic (Stress, Anxiety, Burnout & Mental Health) & Relievers (Exercise, Cortisol, Growth Factors & The Bluezones).00:41:41 - A Study Between Runners and Yogi’s & The Results00:45:47 - A Study on Burnout (Teachers, the NHS and beyond).00:48:00 - Personalised Medicine & Personalised Learning00:49:50 - AI, Concerns & The Evolution of Healthcare00:51:39 - The Broader Implications of Findings on Neuroplasticity in terms of Life Long Learning, Addiction & Behavioural Change?00:55:06 - Closing Thoughts & Key TakeawaysEnjoyed the podcast? Subscribe nowWatch on YouTubeConnect: Peter Bell, Dr Lara BoydInterested in becoming a sponsor or collaborating with us, reach out via Purpose Made. Your support helps us continue delivering the thought-provoking content to our audience.This podcast was recorded and produced by Purpose Made. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are we witnessing the end of democracy? In this compelling episode of the Purpose Made Podcast, we're joined by Peter Geoghegan, an esteemed investigative journalist, author, and the mind behind groundbreaking investigations into the murky waters of political financing. Geoghegan's work has illuminated the dark corners of British politics, earning nominations for prestigious journalism awards and sparking crucial conversations about the integrity of democratic institutions.As the former editor-in-chief at openDemocracy and a contributor to top-tier publications worldwide, Geoghegan has a knack for uncovering uncomfortable truths. From the Brexit campaign to the controversial dealings of political lobbyists, his investigations delve into how unseen money shapes public policy and opinion, often at the expense of transparency and fairness.In today's deep-dive conversation, we explore key themes from Geoghegan's latest book, "Democracy for Sale," and discuss the broader implications of his findings on global politics and the very fabric of democracy. Join us as we navigate through a series of eye-opening topics, shedding light on the complex interplay between money, power, and governance.During today's deep dive conversation, we discuss:Democracy For SaleUK’s Corruption “Wake Up Call”Lobbying, Brexit & The DUPIntegrity, Professionalism & Accountability & The Origins Of The Atlantic BridgeThe Greensill ScandalLobbying & The Case Of The £118K-A-Year ‘Advisory’ GigDistraction, Disaster Capitalism & The Dead Cat StrategyThe IEA & The ‘Brexit Influencing Game’Influence, Statutory Instrument & Dark MoneyThe Elections Act & ‘Tories Target 2 Million Expats With Polling-Day Proxies’Cambridge Analytica & Digital InfluencingDwindling Attention Spans, Misinformation & Digital ManipulationThe Trump Before TrumpDestabilisation, The Russia Report & The Owen Paterson ScandalThe Nolan Principles: The Antidote To Sado-Populism?Truss, The Lettuce & Cash For AccessInfosys & VIP AccessPPE Procurement, Lost WhatsApps & The Covid InquiryGeopolitics, The Year Of The “Election Super Cycle” & Voter FatigueStrategies for Countering Right-Wing PopulismAudience Q&A - The Teesside Freeport & A Counter To PopCon - Dark Money In Plain SightKey Thoughts & TakeawaysPeter Geoghegan's insights offer a sobering look at the challenges facing modern democracies. Through meticulous investigation and a commitment to truth, Geoghegan not only exposes the mechanisms of influence and control but also sparks a conversation about the path forward.This episode is a must-listen for anyone concerned with the future of democracy, the impact of dark money in politics, a desire for change, and the role of journalism in safeguarding public discourse.If today's discussion inspired you, ignited curiosity, or provoked thought, don't forget to subscribe to the Purpose Made Podcast. Share this episode with friends, family, or anyone who believes in the power of informed dialogue to shape a more transparent and equitable world. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this enlightening episode, the future of food, we sit down with Andrea Rasca, the visionary CEO and founder of London's pioneering sustainable community market and cultural hub, Mercato Metropolitano, and the driving force behind Movimento Metropolitano.Andrea shares his extensive 25-year journey within the food sector, his inspirations, the hurdles he's overcome, and his mission to revolutionise our food systems for the betterment of people's health and our planet.During this episode, we discuss:Andrea Rasca: The Man Behind The VisionThe Seeds of Change: Andrea’s Inspirational JourneyOvercoming Obstacles & Scaling Mercato MetropolitanoStrategies for Driving Positive Change in Our Food SystemNavigating Global Challenges: Brexit, Opportunities, and the Path ForwardBeyond Short-termism: Envisioning the Future of FoodThe Power of Starting Small to Achieve Big DreamsHow Food Will Shape Our FutureFrom Blue Zones to Addressing Our Broken Food SystemEmbracing a New Paradigm for Food and CommunityThe Impact of Community Orientation and Social InitiativesIncorporating Environmental, Social, and Governance Principles for a Purpose-Driven FutureEnvisioning the Future of Mercato MetropolitanoAddressing Social Obligations and Bridging the North-South DivideKey Thoughts & TakeawaysIf you’re inspired by Andrea's vision of a sustainable, healthy, and equitable food system, join the movement by visiting Mercato Metropolitano and supporting local, sustainable food initiatives in your community. Don’t forget to share this episode with friends and family to spread the message of positive change.Loved this episode? Make sure to subscribe to our podcast and leave us a review, letting us know what you think and what you’d like to hear more about. Your support helps us bring more conversations like this to you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, we're diving into the fascinating world of gaming and social impact with Jeffrey Burrell, Head of Social Impact at Riot Games. Known for iconic titles like League of Legends, Teamfight Tactics, and Valorant, to cross over sensations like Arcane which is taking  @Netflix  by storm,  @riotgames  is rewriting the narrative of gaming companies by championing impactful social causes. During the episode we discuss: 1. The Gaming Revolution: Riot's Social Impact Journey:Jeffrey unfolds the story of Riot Games' transformation into a socially responsible powerhouse.Discover how Riot's passion for gaming translates into meaningful experiences and social initiatives.2. Riot's Social Impact Fund: Game-Changing Moves:Dive deep into the workings and successes of Riot's Social Impact Fund.Highlighting groundbreaking campaigns like "Take the Drake for Water’s Sake" with AWS and the $1M Worlds Events Pass contribution to the Eden Reforestation Project.3. UN's Sustainable Development Goals: A Playbook for Positive Change:Explore how Riot uses the UN's Sustainable Development Goals to deliver value to players and communities.Unravel Riot's approach through their Social Impact Pillars and research findings, transforming data into real-world impacts.4. Looking Ahead: Riot's Vision for Gaming's Future:Jeffrey shares insights into the potential of gaming experiences in championing social and environmental issues.Together with sneak peeks into Riot Games' 2024 plans and the future of player-focused gaming.SUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST   @PurposeMadePodcast  WATCH ON:YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/X1gK3b6q80wFOLLOW ON: https://www.instagram.com/thepeterbell/?hl=enWORK WITH US: www.purposemade.ukThank you for watching this episode exploring gaming's impact with Riot Games' Head of Social Impact, Jeffrey Burrell. Be sure to subscribe to the Purpose Made Podcast for more inspiring conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dubbed 'The Craziest Week in Tech', these few days have been a whirlwind. We witnessed the surprising narrative of Sam Altman, beginning with his unexpected exit from OpenAI on November 17th. Barely catching our breath, we then saw him align with Microsoft, led by Satya Nadella, on November 19th, only to make a surprising return to his CEO position at OpenAI on November 21st. The Altman Saga is a story as bewildering as it is thrilling, and it marks a significant moment in tech.To navigate us through this astounding series of events, we're joined by the esteemed Mr. Metaverse, Aragorn Meulendijks. Aragorn, a venerated futurist and AI keynote speaker, offers a unique lens to view these developments. His insight, a blend of historical context, behavioural science, psychology, and philosophical underpinnings, provides a rich and nuanced understanding of the rapid evolution in the tech sector. His perspective is not just informative but essential for anyone seeking to remain on the cutting edge of this ever-changing industry.In this episode, we explore a variety of crucial topics, each shedding light on the complexities and implications of this landmark week. Join us as we unravel the layers of these events, examining their significance and what they portend for the future of tech and AI.Time Stamps:00:00:00 - Introduction: Setting the Stage for Tech's Most Unforgettable Week.00:01:22 - The Altman Saga: A Timeline of Sam Altman's Journey with OpenAI, QStar, and the Generational Debate of Boomers vs. Doomers.00:05:25 - OpenAI's Path Forward: Predictions and Perspectives.00:07:51 - Recapping a Landmark Week in Technology.00:08:07 - Meet Aragorn Meulendijks: An Overview of a Visionary.00:10:55 - Analysis: Sam Altman's Odyssey with OpenAI and Microsoft.00:18:50 - AGI Developments, Ilya Sutskever's Contributions, and Navigating a Digital Arms Race.00:20:33 - Historical Evolution of Technology: A Deep Dive.00:24:45 - Impact Analysis: The Fourth Turning & Moises Naim’s Three P’s.00:25:44 - Dissecting 'Transformers' in Tech: Insights referencing Geoffrey Hinton, Lex Fridman, and Mark Zuckerberg.00:30:57 - Technology and Human Exceptionalism: A Multifaceted Exploration.00:34:34 - The Shift to a Tech-Led World: Implications and Strategies.00:43:57 - Today's Paradigm Shift: Augmented Reality, Crisis Convergence, and Community Impact.00:56:42 - Exploring Naomi Klein's Disaster Capitalism and Timothy Snyder’s Sado-Populism.00:59:16 - The Rise of the Robots: Economic Implications and Swarm Intelligence.01:05:47 - Thriving in the Modern Era: Defining Purpose and Values.01:13:57 - From Moments to Movements: Predictions for the Coming Decade.01:23:16 - Super Intelligence: Charting the Future of Evolution.01:25:25 - The Singularity: Unpacking its Potential Impact.01:29:08 - Key Takeaways: What We've Learned and What's Next.If our conversation today sparked your curiosity, don't let the journey end here.Subscribe to our channel and turn on notifications to be the first to dive into our future explorations of thought-provoking ideas.Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCftFt-Pd7xe1f0XY0K-dX4wStay connected and continue the conversation:Follow the insightful Aragorn Meulendijks LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsmrmetaverse/Follow me:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-george-bell/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thepeterbell/Interested in creating change together? For collaborations or to explore the potential of our collective impact, visit www.purposemade.uk for more information.Until our next episode. Stay curious. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever wondered what drives our desire to behave morally? The Yin and Yang of Morality. Neuroeconomist Paul Zak believes he has uncovered the answer. By delving into the fascinating realm of neurology, Zak introduces us to oxytocin, a chemical he affectionately refers to as "the moral molecule." He believes that this miraculous substance plays a pivotal role in cultivating trust, empathy, and other profound emotions that contribute to the creation of a harmonious and prosperous society.As a renowned expert in the fields of cognitive science, psychology, and biology, Zak provides us with a captivating journey into the intricate workings of the human brain. Drawing upon his research in happiness, medicine, sociology, and even chemistry, he paints a comprehensive picture of how oxytocin acts as a vital catalyst for positive social behaviour.Through his enthralling and accessible style of storytelling, Zak skilfully connects the dots between neuroscience, behavioural economics, and ethics. By shedding light on the neurobiological underpinnings of our moral compass, he helps us understand the fundamental drivers behind our ethical choices.Join us in this thought-provoking exploration as we delve into the depths of the human mind and uncover the undeniable influence of oxytocin. Brace yourself for an enlightening adventure that will transform the way you perceive moral behaviour and its vital role in shaping our society.Thank you for watching this listening. Subscribe to our channel for more thought-provoking content, and turn on notifications to stay updated with our latest releases. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Louis Rosenberg, a VR, AR, and AI pioneer, discusses the AI revolution. Topics include creating interactive AR systems, pioneering VR technologies, and the impact of AI on society and creativity. The conversation explores AI biases, personalized ads, generative AI, and unintentional biases embedded in AI systems. It also delves into societal risks, governance in AI, and the importance of considering long-term impacts of technological advancements.

In the innovative world of games—where narratives intertwine and the stories we craft engage and inspire—we eagerly welcome Joe Nickolls, a prodigious titan in the games industry.Joe, boasting over two decades of experience, has sculpted, refined, and reshaped AAA Video Game development, contributing to some of the world's most loved, recognised, and revered titles. In today's episode, Joe walks us through his captivating journey, transitioning from radio, Polygram, and Universal Music to the dazzling heights of franchises such as FIFA, NHL, and The Sims. Witness the evolution of a man who, after scaling the peaks at Electronic Arts, Microsoft, and Capcom, felt the call of home. This led to the creation of Vancouver's latest award winning treasure, the phenomenal Timbre Games Studio.We dive deep into Joe's vision with Timbre—unearthing the 'Why' underpinning the studio, with its commitment to diversity, value and values and why 'Culture Drives Creativity'. We shed light on the importance of multipotentiality and diversity of thought in the games industry, echoing the belief that "Talent Comes From Anywhere" regardless of one's background.As we delve further, Joe provides an insider's perspective on the industry's recent transformations, from the dynamic shifts in mobile gaming and subscription models to the resounding impact of "quality" epitomised by iconic titles like Diablo 4.Our conversation then shifts to the potential of content cross-pollination and franchise reimagination, referencing standout productions like 'The Last of Us', 'The Bear', 'Andor', 'The Mandalorian', and more. We discuss the intrinsic power of storytelling, examining the intricate balance between emotion, subject, and technology. We also venture into nostalgic games of old, revisiting titles like SSX, Fallout, Half-Life, and BioShock, emphasising how games can transcend mere entertainment to become lasting moemorable experiences.In the episode's finale, Joe speculates on the future of the industry, touching upon the burgeoning potential of AI and introducing the intriguing 'JoesImpact100', leaving listeners with an amazing NASA encounter you're not going to want to miss.This isn't just another podcast episode—it's a deep dive into the games industry, its evolution, and a salute to the infinite opportunities borne from genuine creativity and innovation. Remember, games are more than play; when crafted rightly, they sculpt memories that last a lifetime. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy this enlightening journey!---------If you've found value in our conversation, please like, share, and subscribe. Your support helps us spread these important messages and grow our community. Listen to The Purpose Made Podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and other platforms or watch along on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@PurposeMadePodcastLet's continue this journey of lifelong learning and transformation together!If you have any thoughts on today's topics, drop us a comments. We love hearing from our community and often use your insights to shape our next episodes. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the intricate mosaic of narrative-led gaming and interactive storytelling, we weave tales that redefine and elevate player experiences. Today, we're thrilled to journey through a landscape shaped by none other than Timothy Cain, the brilliant mind behind the iconic Fallout series. Recognised by IGN as one of the top 100 game creators ever, Tim’s legacy is nothing short of legendary.Join us as we navigate through Tim's intriguing path, starting with his humble beginnings at Interplay. Delve into the heart of how Fallout was conceived, shaped, and brought to life, and hear firsthand accounts of the sheer inspiration that drove its creation. As we tread this memory lane, we uncover what the gaming industry was like in its embryonic stages, marked by cultural shifts and Tim’s own revolutionary influence.Tim unpacks his philosophy of 'Quality Over Quantity', reflecting on his biggest triumphs, the ever-evolving challenges he's encountered, and the invaluable lessons drawn from failures. His multi-faceted perspectives on game development illuminate topics ranging from the balance of crunch vs. art to the rising trend of sequels, and the increasing influence of players on game narratives.Ever wondered about the delicate dance between tech, AI, and gaming? As we probe into augmented reality's role, Tim touches upon tech giants like Apple and Google and how they're impacting our pursuit of immersive experiences. From the powerful lure of Pokémon Go to the thrilling world of augmented reality, we examine how gaming reshapes human connections. As we move deeper, we'll also tackle the challenging terrains of risk, societal implications, and the shadowy world of deep fakes.Culminating our discussion, Tim reminisces about 'The Game That Got Away', offering key insights and takeaways that would resonate with every gamer, developer, and storyteller out there.This episode is more than just a conversation—it's an odyssey into the rich tapestry of gaming history, a tribute to the enduring power of interactive storytelling, and an exploration of what lies ahead. As we often say, while games are coded with logic, it's emotion that truly brings them to life.So, buckle up and embark on this exhilarating ride with Timothy Cain. The echoes of Fallout's post-apocalyptic world serve as a testament: sometimes, it's the stories we weave that truly define our universe. Enjoy!------In the pursuit of widening our horizons, your support is paramount. If this episode resonated, please like, share, comment and subscribe. Every gesture amplifies our reach, igniting inspiration far and wide. Your engagement truly shapes our narrative! The Purpose Made Podcast is accessible on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts and the video for this wonderful episode is available on YouTube at https://youtu.be/xPdWD7igjMs Dive in, immerse yourself and we do hope you enjoy! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

"With so many pulls and strains and stresses, Simon offers us simple steps for every one of us to indeed energise!' Simon Sinek, optimist and New York Times bestselling author of Start With Why.In the intricate maze of personal development and energy management, we're illuminating paths that transcend the mundane, fuelling ambition, and sparking transformation. We're thrilled to welcome to our podcast the incredible Simon Alexander Ong, a titan in the field of personal development and a maestro in the art of energising lives. Admired for his thought-provoking insights and transformative coaching style, Simon has spent his career inspiring individuals from all walks of life to invest in their most valuable asset: themselves.In this episode, we plunge into the depths of Simon's world, tracing his journey from the roots of his career to his current groundbreaking work in energy management. We unravel his experiences navigating the pulsing avenues of personal development, which have served as an enriching ground for learning, innovation, and an enduring passion for human potential.Simon enlightens us on the power of managing our energy as he takes us on a journey through his guiding principles, coupled with the doctrine of "Manage Your Energy, Not Your Time." We'll discover the importance of harnessing our energy to fuel our ambitions and build sustainable paths toward our most audacious goals.We delve into the mechanisms of energy management, exploring the four dimensions of energy, the science of energy, and the potent concept of Longpath as an antidote for short-termism. We're examining the lessons from British Cycling and the potency of tiny gains, all while navigating the ebb and flow of our personal energy resources.We venture into the realm of mindset, exploring the challenges and opportunities that come with managing our internal narrative. We tap into the wisdom of influencers like Andrew Huberman and Rich Roll and probe into the transformative power of introjection. We're diving deep into the riveting elements of challenge and resilience, all the while unveiling the tactics for overcoming obstacles.As we navigate the waves of Simon's wisdom, we're invited to transcend conventional thought paradigms, prompting us to be "Better Than Who We Were Yesterday." Drawing on insights from his remarkable book 'Energise', lessons from Matthew McConaughey's 'Greenlights', and Simon's own pioneering work, we underscore the paramount importance of personal energy management and lifelong learning.This episode isn't just another podcast—it's a vibrant blueprint for personal transformation, a compelling testament to the power of self-improvement, and a clarion call for personal growth. As Simon tells us, it's time to learn to "Prioritise Time Just To Be." So, plug in, open your mind, and let these narratives inspire, motivate, and energise you.Personal development isn't a destination—it's an exciting, lifelong journey. Dive in and enjoy! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.