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Big Think is the leading source of expert-driven, actionable, educational content -- with thousands of videos, featuring experts ranging from Bill Clinton to Bill Nye, we help you get smarter, faster. Get actionable lessons from the world’s greatest thinkers & doers. Our experts are either disrupting or leading their respective fields. We aim to help you explore the big ideas and core skills that define knowledge in the 21st century, so you can apply them to the questions and challenges in your own life.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 30, 2025 • 5min
Only high performers pass this kind of job interview | Tyler Cowen
 In this engaging discussion, economist Tyler Cowen shares his insights on redefining job interviews. He argues that traditional questions often just assess a candidate's prep skills, missing their true potential, especially in creative fields. Cowen advocates for spontaneous, unscripted conversations to reveal authenticity and real decision-making abilities. He emphasizes the importance of trust between interviewer and candidate to foster honest interactions, ultimately suggesting that better talent allocation can drive significant economic growth. 

Oct 29, 2025 • 8min
Change bad spending habits in 5 steps | Your Brain on Money
 Join Dr. Cerf, a neuroscientist who transitioned from hacking computers to studying brain habits, along with therapist Dr. James, who reveals how financial habits form, and habit-change expert Dr. Cable. They discuss why 40% of our daily actions are habits and how unconscious spending can derail our finances. Discover practical steps to cultivate better money habits, such as self-evaluation, intentional replacements, and the significance of social support in the journey toward financial wellness. 

Oct 29, 2025 • 2h 26min
Where did our universe come from? | Ethan Siegel: Full Interview
 Ethan Siegel, Ph.D., is an acclaimed astrophysicist and author known for his engaging science communication. In this discussion, he unpacks the origins of the universe, diving into the Big Bang theory and the concept of cosmic inflation. Siegel explains complex ideas like singularities, black holes, and the alluring possibility of a multiverse. He also highlights how the James Webb Space Telescope is revolutionizing our understanding of ancient galaxies and the universe's future. Prepare for a captivating journey through the cosmos! 

Oct 29, 2025 • 9min
The mind-bending physics of time | Sean Carroll
 The guest, Sean Carroll, is a Homewood Professor of Natural Philosophy at Johns Hopkins and a theoretical physicist renowned for his insights into cosmology. In this discussion, he delves into the enigmatic nature of time, exploring how the Big Bang set the stage for our understanding of past, present, and future. Carroll explains entropy and the second law of thermodynamics, illustrating how the universe's low-entropy beginning influences the arrow of time. He also speculates on the tantalizing possibilities of time travel and the multiverse. 

14 snips
Oct 29, 2025 • 1h 31min
The neuroscience of extremes: Ruthless psychopathy to extraordinary generosity | Abigail Marsh
 In a captivating discussion, Abigail Marsh, a Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at Georgetown University, explores the spectrum of human behavior from extreme altruism to psychopathy. She challenges the notion that humans are inherently selfish, backed by her own life-saving experience. Marsh breaks down complex traits of psychopathy, clarifying myths and discussing treatment options. She also delves into how empathy can foster altruism, showcasing that kindness and cruelty may lie along the same continuum of human nature. 

Oct 29, 2025 • 8min
If money doesn’t buy happiness, you’re spending it wrong | Your Brain on Money
 Money can indeed buy happiness, but the key is how you spend it. Experts emphasize that investing in experiences creates lasting joy, unlike fleeting satisfaction from material possessions. Neuroscience reveals that our default spending often targets short-term thrills rather than enduring happiness. By reflecting on personal values, you can find your money personality to allocate funds meaningfully. Ultimately, memorable experiences lead to cherished stories, transforming how we perceive wealth and fulfillment. 

Oct 29, 2025 • 18min
10 biggest world threats of 2023, ranked | Ian Bremmer
 Ian Bremmer, founder of Eurasia Group and political risk expert, dives into the top global threats of 2023. He identifies 'rogue Russia' as the foremost risk, outlining its implications on global security. Other pressing issues include rising water stress, the TikTok generation shaping political activism, and severe inflation impacting economies worldwide. Bremmer also discusses energy crises in Europe and tensions surrounding Iran's nuclear ambitions, underscoring the complexities of today's geopolitical landscape. 

Oct 29, 2025 • 9min
Music’s power over your brain, explained | Michael Spitzer
 In this engaging discussion, Michael Spitzer, a professor of music at the University of Liverpool and author of The Musical Human, delves into how human evolution is intertwined with music. He explains how our bipedal walking shaped musical rhythm and how brain regions connect motion with sound. Spitzer highlights music's power to reduce stress, enhance emotional expression, and trigger vivid memories. He also explores the fascinating phenomenon of 'the chills'—where music evokes fear and pleasure simultaneously. A captivating exploration of music's profound impact on our brains! 

Oct 29, 2025 • 44min
Is race politics poisoning young minds? Coleman Hughes weighs in
 Coleman Hughes, a writer and opinion columnist specializing in race and public policy, discusses the complex philosophy of colorblindness. He argues that it's about treating individuals equally, without regard to race, and warns against harmful racial essentialism in education. Hughes emphasizes that race is a social construct shaped by political contexts rather than biology. He suggests focusing on socioeconomic status to address inequality effectively. The conversation critiques modern race politics and advocates for a more inclusive dialogue around race. 

Oct 29, 2025 • 10min
Why Steve-O risked his life over, and over, and over again
 Steve-O, entertainer and stuntman from the *Jackass* franchise, shares his tumultuous journey from outcast to fame. He opened up about his childhood desire for approval, which pushed him into extreme stunts, driven by a need to be seen. Despite his success, he battled alcoholism and continued feelings of inadequacy. Recovery led to self-reflection and the realization that his hustle might stem from never feeling 'good enough.' He questions whether contentment would spark laziness, revealing the complexities of fame and personal worth. 


