Big Think

Psychologist Ethan Kross reveals that emotional regulation begins at birth, emphasizing the importance of skin-to-skin contact. He introduces the 'Batman Effect,' a playful approach where kids adopt superhero personas to tackle challenges. Early teaching of emotional strategies not only helps children manage their feelings but can also lead to improved grades and overall well-being. The conversation dives into the foundational role of emotional intelligence in shaping resilient, successful individuals.

Yuval Noah Harari, a renowned historian and author, dives into the troubling intersection of humanity and AI. He argues that organic beings struggle to adapt to the relentless pace of artificial information cycles. Harari highlights the risks of an AI-dominated world and emphasizes the importance of creating robust institutions to uphold healthy discourse. His key takeaway? Adopt an 'information diet' to safeguard mental well-being and foster clearer communication amidst the chaos of misinformation.

Dr. Michio Kaku, co-founder of string field theory and renowned physicist, discusses the transformative journey of quantum computing. He highlights its ability to tap into parallel universes, drastically increasing computational power. Kaku outlines its revolutionary potential across agriculture, energy, and medicine, addressing complex issues like efficient fertilizers and fusion energy. He also warns of the intense race among tech giants and intelligence agencies to harness this technology, with implications for global power dynamics and insights into cosmic mysteries.

Christine Emba, an Opinion columnist at The Washington Post and author of *Rethinking Sex*, dives deep into the chaotic world of dating apps. She highlights their role in creating a swipe-swipe culture filled with superficiality and emotional risks. Ghosting and harassment have become normalized, leading to mental health challenges for many users. Emba advocates for a more ethical approach to dating by prioritizing genuine connections and respectful interactions, urging us to treat others as people, not just profiles.

Jason Derulo, a global superstar and author, shares his incredible journey from overcoming a life-threatening injury to finding success in music. He reflects on childhood insecurities and the impact of family support in his life. Derulo emphasizes the importance of positive self-talk and routines, which helped him craft hit songs post-recovery. Now a father, he discusses how his priorities have shifted while continuing to embrace authenticity and self-improvement in both his art and personal life.

Adam Grant, an organizational psychologist at Wharton and author of *Hidden Potential*, challenges the obsession with raw talent. He shares his own journey of surpassing feelings of inadequacy to unlock his potential. Grant dissects the ineffective 'compliment sandwich' feedback method and provides an impactful leadership phrase for inspiring others. He emphasizes that true growth comes from effort, real-time feedback, and the right support, urging leaders to cultivate an environment where everyone can thrive.

Dr. Talithia Williams, a math professor and science communicator at Harvey Mudd College, emphasizes the critical importance of data literacy in our data-driven world. She illustrates how data influences everyday decisions, from targeted ads to healthcare. Williams warns about the biases in data-driven models, stressing the need for transparency in AI. Through her work, she inspires others to view data as a powerful tool for informed decision-making, urging everyone to navigate the complexities of data to create fairer outcomes.

Ian Bremmer, a political scientist and president of Eurasia Group, dives deep into the Israeli-Palestinian conflict's historical roots and its current dynamics. He examines Israel's domestic instability under Prime Minister Netanyahu and the role of hard-right parties. The conversation touches on the influence of social media disinformation, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and shifting U.S. support for Israel. Bremmer also discusses the implications of these factors on the possibility of a two-state solution amidst a complex geopolitical landscape.

Explore how to take control of your emotions through metacognition, which allows your rational brain to assess and manage feelings. Discover the difference between instinctive reactions driven by the limbic system and deliberate responses from the prefrontal cortex. Learn practical techniques to pause and reflect before reacting, enhancing emotional intelligence. With practice, you'll become more in control, happier, and improve your relationships by being an emotional MVP that others enjoy being around!

In this engaging discussion, Kevin O'Leary, also known as “Mr. Wonderful,” shares his insights on the crypto landscape following the FTX disaster. He argues that cryptocurrencies, particularly Bitcoin, are more speculative assets than currencies. O'Leary highlights the need for effective regulation to curb the industry's chaotic nature and ensure safe integration into the global economy. He believes the potential for crypto remains enormous, but trust and governmental oversight are essential for its future success.