Slo Mo: A Podcast with Mo Gawdat

Jeffrey Sachs, a renowned economist and Columbia University professor, shares his insights on U.S. foreign policy and the threat of nuclear war. He discusses how historical patterns from British imperialism echo in American actions today, especially in conflicts like Ukraine and Gaza. Sachs highlights the disconnect between government decisions and public opinion, critiquing the military-industrial complex's influence. He warns of the escalating global tensions and advocates for a shift towards more isolationist policies to promote peace and stability.

Grace Blakeley, a renowned economist and author known for her critiques of capitalism, dives deep into the illusion of economic freedom. She exposes how narratives of meritocracy mask systemic inequalities, using Boeing as a stark example. Grace discusses the manipulation of crises by governments and the rise of individualism damaging community bonds. She highlights the psychological toll of debt and emphasizes the importance of community in fostering true economic freedom, advocating for a collective approach to reshape our financial systems.

John Rubino, a former Wall Street financial analyst and author of books like "The Money Bubble," delves into the looming economic crises. He discusses the widening wealth gap and the fragile housing market, emphasizing the potential collapse of the dollar. Rubino explores the consequences of government debt, the evolving nature of money, and emerging challenges to the dollar's reserve status. The conversation highlights the importance of financial preparedness and community resilience in navigating these turbulent times.

Andy Coulson, former newspaper editor and communications director for the UK government, shares insights gained from his controversial past, including his involvement in the phone hacking scandal. He discusses the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists, the ties between media and government, and the challenge of truth in today's journalism. Coulson critiques capitalism and democracy, advocating for grassroots communication. He also reflects on personal growth through adversity and the relevance of Stoicism in navigating life’s complexities.

Brett Christophers, a professor of economics and author known for his insightful critiques of capitalism, joins Mo Gawdat for a revealing discussion. They delve into rising rent prices and how private equity firms are reshaping the housing market post-2008, benefiting from systemic inequalities. The conversation highlights the challenges of homeownership in urban areas, the monopolistic behavior of utility companies, and the advent of techno feudalism, urging listeners to rethink their relationship with capitalism.

Dr. Michael Rich, known as 'The Mediatrician,' is a pediatrician and educator dedicated to digital wellness and children's health. He discusses the detrimental effects of tech reliance on kids, emphasizing how it fosters distraction and diminishes focus. Rich highlights the importance of boredom for creativity and connection, advocating for mindful screen time through his '3Ms' approach: modeling, mentoring, and monitoring. He warns that digital interactions can increase feelings of loneliness and underscores the need for authentic, meaningful connections in a tech-driven world.

Mo Gawdat, a happiness expert, teams up with Sarah Ann Macklin, founder of 'Live Well Be Well' and a registered nutritionist. They dive into the importance of self-compassion on mental well-being, sharing their personal struggles in the modeling industry and addressing issues like dyslexia. The guests discuss the pressures of perfection in social media, and how that can distort self-worth. They emphasize the need for a mindful approach to diet, the significance of mindset in achieving health goals, and the power of community in overcoming shared challenges.

Dr. Sabrina Cohen-Hatton, a trailblazer and one of the world's top female fire officers, shares her inspiring journey from homelessness to heroism. She discusses breaking stereotypes in a male-dominated field and the importance of embracing individuality. Sabrina recounts her emotional experiences of homelessness, emphasizing resilience and the powerful bond with her dog during tough times. She delves into her research on decision-making in high-stress situations and addresses sexism in emergency services, encouraging listeners to challenge societal perceptions.

Claudia Hammond, an acclaimed broadcaster and psychologist, joins former Google executive Mo Gawdat to explore the essence of kindness in today's world. They discuss how kindness can be cultivated as a vital skill rather than a weakness, and the surprising ways it impacts personal and professional success. The duo emphasizes the unhealthy mindset surrounding productivity and rest, advocating for a balance between self-talk and mental well-being. They also delve into the psychology of money, revealing how prioritizing experiences over wealth leads to true happiness.

Jean Campbell, a British model who began her career at 16, opens up about her journey with chronic pain that reshaped her life and career. She shares her struggles navigating the glamorous modeling world while dealing with relentless pain and emotional challenges. Jean reflects on the importance of embracing vulnerability, the connection between mental health and physical suffering, and how facing adversity can foster resilience. Her insightful experiences inspire others to find growth and connection through their pain.