The Problem With...

Ed Lawrence, a seasoned online business and YouTube strategist, shares his candid insights on the harsh realities of making money online. He discusses the misconception of quick success, emphasizing the lengthy grind behind viral moments. Ed highlights the importance of focusing full-time to escape the 9-5 trap and cautions against chasing views instead of revenue. He reveals how YouTube algorithms can mislead creators and stresses the need for tracking conversions over vanity metrics. Ultimately, he champions patience and persistent effort as keys to building sustainable income.

George Mack, a writer and commentator on agency and productivity, joins James Smith for a thought-provoking discussion. They dissect the concept of agency and why some people thrive while others feel stuck. George reveals how high agency can mask mental health issues and critiques hustle culture as a deceptive 'busy trap.' The duo explores how language shapes our mindset, the impact of parenthood on priorities, and what jiu-jitsu teaches about fear and self-awareness. Practical life hacks for boosting agency also make an appearance!

Professor Green, the British rapper and media personality, shares his profound journey through fame, mental health struggles, and fatherhood. He reveals how success often magnified his problems rather than solving them, shaping much of his anxiety and self-sabotage. He discusses his late diagnosis of autism and ADHD and how becoming a father shifted his priorities away from the need for public approval. The conversation touches on the complexities of addiction, the impact of childhood trauma, and the importance of authenticity in a world obsessed with fame.

Join UK stand-up comedians Jacob Hawley and Jake Farrell as they dive into the chaos of internet culture. With their wit, they explore why the online world rewards outrageous behavior and how extreme personalities fuel viral success. They discuss the perils of the creator economy, from monetized trauma to the pressure of maintaining an online persona. Unpacking the bizarre characters that captivate audiences, they ask tough questions about morality, performative outrage, and what it means to stay sane in a digital landscape that never logs off.

Dr. Louise Newson, a renowned GP and menopause expert, dives into the often-overlooked world of hormone health. She explains how testosterone plays a crucial role beyond male health, impacting mood and energy for everyone. Newson also discusses the historical pitfalls of contraception and the prevalence of synthetic hormones. The podcast highlights how modern diets and lifestyle factors contribute to hormonal imbalances. With her expertise, she advocates for better understanding of hormone therapy and its importance in overall health.

Will Storr, an award-winning author and science writer, dives into the clash between Buddhism and human motivation. He argues that Buddhists misinterpret our drive for ambition and status, emphasizing its evolutionary necessity for survival. Storr links status loss to issues like violence and mental health crises, while highlighting how modern storytelling shapes our identity. The conversation also discusses the impact of social media and competition on well-being, and practical strategies to navigate the invisible games of status we're all playing.

Daniel Priestley, a bestselling author and serial entrepreneur, dives into the transformative power of AI. He believes it's the biggest disruption we'll face, even more significant than social media or the internet. By 2027, businesses that don't adapt will falter. Priestley introduces the 'sponge vs. icing' framework, emphasizing the irreplaceable value of human touch in a tech-driven world. He also touches on the importance of personal branding, evolving career roles, and the need for entrepreneurs to embrace rapid change and innovation.

The Problem With… isn’t here to give easy answers - it’s here to ask the uncomfortable questions behind today’s biggest trends and taboos. Each week, host James Smith digs into what’s really going on - from AI to wellness culture - through unfiltered chats with experts and insiders to uncover the truth behind the noise. New episodes every Tuesday 6PM BST. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices