Big Think

Annaka Harris, a New York Times bestselling author and producer of the audio documentary series LIGHTS ON, explores the intriguing realms of consciousness. She proposes that consciousness might not just be a product of the human brain but rather a fundamental aspect of the universe. The podcast discusses mind-boggling stories such as a man writing a book with his eyelid and the eerie idea that plants might possess consciousness. Harris prompts us to reconsider our intuitions about awareness and contemplate what else may be conscious around us.

In this enlightening discussion, Abigail Marsh, a Professor of Psychology and Neuroscience at Georgetown University, delves into the fascinating worlds of psychopathy and altruism. She reveals how psychopaths differ in brain development from a young age, impacting their empathy. Marsh highlights the rising trend of extraordinary altruists—those who risk personal safety to help others. She emphasizes that altruistic behaviors can be nurtured and suggests tests for assessing one's own level of kindness, advocating for small acts to foster a more compassionate society.

Dr. Jen Gunter, a San Francisco Bay Area OB-GYN and author, dives deep into the science of menstruation while debunking myths surrounding it. She calls out damaging ideas like 'cycle syncing' and the myth that periods detoxify the body. Gunter highlights the biological complexities of menstruation and emphasizes that understanding one's cycle is crucial for health and advocacy. She also sheds light on menstrual pain, the role of prostaglandins, and warns about potential dangers of menstrual tracking apps in today's political climate.

Ian Bremmer, president of Eurasia Group and GZERO Media, discusses the top risks for 2025 with a focus on an increasingly fragmented global landscape. He highlights the U.S.-Mexico drug crisis as a major concern, alongside the rising tensions between the U.S. and China, predicting a new Cold War. Bremmer warns about ungoverned spaces and rogue actors, stressing the urgency to address geopolitical instability. He also examines the implications of Trumponomics and the concentration of power in democratic systems. It's a call for preparedness in a rapidly changing world.

Janna Levin is a Professor of Physics and Astronomy at Barnard College and the author of Black Hole Survival Guide. In this discussion, she explores the paradoxes of black holes, suggesting we reconsider them as 'empty places' instead of dense objects. Levin reveals how black holes may have contributed to the emergence of life and explains the eerie experience of approaching one unknowingly in space. She also delves into the philosophical implications of their existence and the mysteries of time and gravity in their presence.

In this enlightening discussion, Mary Helen Immordino-Yang, a neuroscientist and USC professor, explores the transformative potential of community in education. She highlights how diversity and social connections can enhance brain growth and learning experiences. Immordino-Yang argues for moving away from standardized testing to a more human-centered approach that values lived experiences and collaboration. By fostering strong social fabrics in schools, educators and students can co-create meaningful learning journeys that adapt to the complexities of the world.

The conversation challenges the notion that intelligence can be accurately measured by standardized tests. It highlights how such assessments often fail to capture a child's true potential, reducing them to mere test scores. Instead, the need for a broader definition of intelligence is emphasized, one that values ecological and adaptive thinking. This type of intelligence fosters creativity and real-world problem-solving, urging us to support learning environments that nurture these vital skills.

Shaka Senghor, an author, speaker, and activist, shares his incredible journey from a 19-year prison sentence to becoming an advocate for change. He opens up about the traumas that haunted him before incarceration and how he transformed his cell into a space for growth. Senghor reveals three pivotal moments that changed his life: discovering literature, finding forgiveness through a victim's family, and embracing fatherhood. Freedom, for him, is now about emotional vulnerability and deep connections, showcasing that true liberty starts from within.

Daniel Goleman, a renowned psychologist and author famous for popularizing emotional intelligence, discusses the pivotal role of EQ versus IQ. He explains how emotional intelligence is essential for leaders and can be nurtured at any age. Goleman highlights the four key domains of emotional intelligence, emphasizing empathy and communication. He shares a touching story about a compassionate bus driver, illustrating how empathy can transform leadership and organizational health. This insight into enhancing emotional intelligence can lead to greater fulfillment and better relationships.

In this enlightening discussion, Byron Katie, an author and teacher known for her transformative method, The Work, shares her journey from suffering to self-discovery. She reveals how four powerful questions can help dismantle negative beliefs and alleviate mental pain. Listeners learn what happens when we stop believing our thoughts and find true freedom. Katie emphasizes that peace arises not from changing the world, but from changing our perceptions, guiding us toward a path of personal growth and clarity.