The Tim Ferriss Show

Luis von Ahn, co-founder and CEO of Duolingo, shares his journey from a Guatemalan upbringing to shaping global language education. He humorously discusses the origins of Duolingo's owl mascot and delves into the platform's innovative monetization strategies. Luis explores mission-driven business growth, the impacts of cultural trends on language learning, and plans for expanding educational offerings. He also touches on serious issues like corruption in Guatemala, all while making it engaging and relatable, highlighting personal wellness and effective management practices.

Balaji S. Srinivasan, an angel investor and former CTO of Coinbase, dives into a myriad of futuristic ideas. He discusses the potential of 'network states' as new forms of governance and critiques Bitcoin maximalism's fervent ideology. Balaji also speculates on America's socio-political landscape in the next decade, addressing the tension between anarchy and authoritarianism. He contrasts the roles of Bitcoin and gold as inflation hedges, and examines how technology, especially social media, is reshaping political discourse and community building.

Hamilton Morris, a chemist and filmmaker renowned for "Hamilton's Pharmacopeia," teams up with Dr. Mark Plotkin, an ethnobotanist and president of the Amazon Conservation Team. Together, they delve into the rich history of psychoactive substances, debating the merits of synthetic versus natural options. They explore microdosing, the mysteries of 5-MeO-DMT, and the ecological implications of interest in the Sonoran Desert Toad. Morris and Plotkin emphasize the importance of open dialogue in both conservation and psychedelic research, while reflecting on Timothy Leary's lasting influence.

Edward O. Thorp, an acclaimed author and legendary blackjack player, dives into his investment philosophy honed over decades. He emphasizes the power of basic numeracy as a superpower for informed decision-making. Thorp shares insights on navigating long-term investments and the importance of self-awareness in leadership. He warns against blindly following fads and highlights how understanding market psychology can lead to better outcomes. Plus, the conversation includes practical strategies for maintaining both mental and physical health.

Edward O. Thorp shares his secrets on beating the odds in blackjack and the stock market, emphasizing the importance of knowing when to walk away. Morgan Fallon reflects on his unique experiences with Anthony Bourdain, blending high standards and creativity in storytelling. Richard Wiseman dives into the psychology behind luck and dreams, offering intriguing insights on mentalism and sleep improvement techniques. Meanwhile, Dennis McKenna uncovers the wonders of Amazonian ethnopharmacology, exploring the impact of psychedelics on consciousness.

In this captivating conversation, Bill Burr, a prolific comedian known for his candid humor and creativity, dives into the evolving landscape of comedy. He shares his personal journey from a shy child to a stand-up powerhouse, revealing the challenges of live performances and the emotional highs and lows of the stage. Burr discusses the art of authentic podcast sponsorships, the exhilaration of performing at Madison Square Garden, and the inspiration behind his animated series, all while encouraging listeners to embrace discomfort and stay true to themselves.

Jack Kornfield is a renowned Buddhist monk, meditation teacher, and clinical psychologist who has introduced mindfulness practices to the West. In this conversation, he shares insightful perspectives on navigating anger through mindfulness and compassion. Kornfield discusses the impact of childhood trauma and the power of storytelling in healing. He also highlights innovative approaches to mental health and the necessity of self-compassion. Emphasizing the balance between personal peace and societal challenges, he encourages listeners to embrace joy even in adversity.

Jason Portnoy, a notable entrepreneur and venture capitalist, shares his journey from PayPal to Palantir, discussing the profound impact of early career experiences on personal growth. He candidly addresses the challenges of porn addiction, exploring the emotional toll of secrets on relationships and the healing power of honesty. Portnoy also reflects on how childhood traumas influence adult behavior, the importance of mentorship, and the transformative nature of simplifying one's life. His insights emphasize the significance of emotional awareness and personal accountability.

In this engaging discussion, Sam Harris, a neuroscientist and philosopher, delves into the nature of consciousness and mindfulness. Dr. Peter Attia, a physician focused on longevity, highlights essential health screening strategies for cancer and cardiovascular health. Ramit Sethi, a financial expert, navigates the intersection of money and relationships, while Elizabeth Gilbert reflects on the importance of embracing life’s impermanence and pursuing creativity. Together, they share insightful perspectives on personal growth, health optimization, and financial well-being.

Isabel Behncke, a pioneering field primatologist, shares insights from her extraordinary journey studying bonobos in the Congo. She reveals how these playful apes exemplify social bonding and creativity, drawing parallels to human behavior. Discover the significance of play in education and societal development, and how it contrasts with the aggression seen in chimpanzees. Isabel also explores topics like sexual selection, female empowerment among bonobos, and the challenges faced in the wilderness, all while emphasizing the value of understanding our closest animal relatives.