The Tim Ferriss Show

Tristan Harris, a co-founder of the Center for Humane Technology and former design ethicist at Google, discusses how technology manipulates our choices and attention. He shares insights from his experiences in Bali, exploring the psychology behind decision-making and the ethics of persuasive technology. They highlight the darker side of tech driven by profit motives, emphasizing the need for new regulations that prioritize well-being. Harris underscores the importance of personal responsibility in navigating technology and advocating for a healthier digital ecosystem.

Acclaimed documentarian Ken Burns, known for beloved works like 'The Civil War' and 'Baseball,' shares insights from his 40-year filmmaking journey. He discusses the profound emotional weight of personal mementos and the storytelling power of film and music. Burns dives into the hidden roots of country music, emphasizing its cultural tapestry and the resilience of influential artists. He reflects on how family and personal experiences shaped his creative vision, showcasing the timelessness of authentic narratives.

Roland Griffiths, a behavioral biology professor and director at Johns Hopkins' new Center for Psychedelic and Consciousness Research, discusses groundbreaking research on psilocybin's therapeutic potential. Matthew Johnson, an expert in addiction, highlights psilocybin's promise in treating nicotine dependence. Together, they explore the ambitious goals of the center, including tackling PTSD, Alzheimer's, and more, while emphasizing the importance of meticulous scientific study and ethical considerations in psychedelic research.

David Allen, a renowned productivity expert and author of the bestselling book 'Getting Things Done,' shares insights from his 35 years in management consulting. He discusses the importance of externalizing thoughts to combat cognitive overload and how to define actionable steps for better clarity. Reflecting on his journey and remote life in Amsterdam, Allen emphasizes setting boundaries, balancing structure with creativity, and the transformative power of weekly reviews for maintaining productivity while reducing stress.

Mike Phillips, Executive Director of the Turner Endangered Species Fund, shares his expertise in wildlife ecology and conservation. He dives into the vital role of apex predators like wolves and bears in maintaining ecological balance. The conversation highlights the urgent extinction crisis, emphasizing the need for proactive conservation efforts and community engagement. Moreover, Phillips discusses the reintroduction of gray wolves to Colorado, addressing cultural myths and the importance of coexistence strategies. It's a call to action for restoring nature's balance.

Safi Bahcall, the author of "Loonshots" and a former biotechnology CEO, dives deep into the fascinating connections between hypnosis, mental health, and innovation. He shares self-hypnosis techniques to combat insomnia and enhance focus. The discussion also explores how reframing emotions like anger can fuel success, alongside innovative insights into incentives in organizations. Safi emphasizes the importance of personal growth through mindfulness and understanding emotional triggers while considering novel therapies for depression like Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation. It's a blend of science, psychology, and real-world application!

Charles Koch, the chairman and CEO of Koch Industries, shares his journey from MIT engineering graduate to leading one of the world's largest private companies. He discusses his Market-Based Management® approach, emphasizing ethical profit versus the pitfalls of regulation. Koch highlights his philanthropic efforts through Stand Together, advocating for collaboration in addressing societal challenges. The conversation touches on bridging political divides and the importance of education and opportunity in transforming communities.

Ed Zschau, Interim President of Sierra Nevada College, is a polymath with a rich history in technology, education, and politics. He elaborates on the essence of entrepreneurship as a life approach rather than just starting companies. Zschau shares his transformative teaching experiences at prestigious universities, blending personal narratives with academic wisdom. He emphasizes the importance of nurturing creativity in education, supportive parenting, and embracing resilience on the journey of growth. His insights inspire a proactive mindset towards learning and leadership.

Dita Von Teese, the world-renowned burlesque performer, shares her journey from a shy child in rural Michigan to a glamorous icon. She discusses the art of haute couture in burlesque, revealing the intricate craftsmanship behind her dazzling costumes. Dita emphasizes the importance of authenticity and individuality in performance and offers insights on the emotional challenges she faced during her teenage years. She also teases exciting projects, including her upcoming lingerie line and beauty book, while advocating for personal empowerment.

Nick Norris, a former Navy SEAL, elite athlete, and CEO, shares his incredible journey through trauma and healing. He opens up about the importance of discussing grief to unlock happiness. The conversation highlights post-traumatic growth in veterans and the alarming mental health challenges they face. Norris also explores high-performance training methods and the therapeutic benefits of activities like climbing. He emphasizes camaraderie, vulnerability, and innovative mental health resources to support fellow veterans on their healing journeys.