Author Samuel T. Wilkinson discusses how human evolution implies an overarching purpose to our existence, challenging the belief that life has no fundamental meaning. He explores the dual potential of human nature, the balance between selfishness and altruism, and the significance of choosing between good and evil impulses in the test of life.

Amy Larkin, author of 'Environmental Debt', discusses the hidden financial costs of environmental negligence. She highlights examples like coal's environmental damage, Thailand's deforestation, and Toyota's production losses. The podcast explores the interconnectedness of finance and the environment, challenges businesses to prioritize sustainability, and advocates for a triple bottom line approach in corporate practices.

Simran Kaur, founder of Girls That Invest, discusses promoting financial independence for women. Topics include demystifying financial jargon, trends in investment strategies, navigating tech industry equity, and embracing financial goals.

Sarah Miller Caldicott, the great grand-niece of Thomas Edison, discusses how to innovate like Edison in business and everyday life. She shares insights on Edison's work ethic, collaborations, and innovative mindset. The podcast explores Edison's innovative methods, the importance of collaboration, and balancing innovation with protecting intellectual property in the digital age.

Professors Bob Sutton and Huggy Rao discuss their book on minimizing destructive friction in organizations. They address common friction troubles and provide solutions. They emphasize the power of clear communication and the need to simplify processes to boost efficiency.

Sara Mednick, author of 'Take a Nap! Change Your Life,' discusses the benefits of napping, the science behind sleep cycles, optimal nap length, comparison of napping vs. caffeine, and strategies for fitting in naps during a busy day. The podcast explores the impact of sleep stages on performance, the importance of regular sleep patterns, and the dangers of sleep deprivation.

Neuroscience specialist Stefanie Faye discusses neurophysiology, mental health, and optimizing learning. Topics include the impact of early experiences on brain development, mechanisms of mindset and neurology, human communication, and reflections on podcasting and self-regulation.

Tammy Smith, a retired Army Major General and the first out LGBTQ+ Major General, discusses her experiences promoting inclusivity in the military post-Don't Ask Don't Tell. She shares insights on her 35-year military career, advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, and the importance of diversity and inclusion in the workforce. The podcast explores policies towards LGBTQ individuals, challenges faced by veterans, and the significance of staying true to oneself while transitioning from military to civilian life.

Professor of psychology and neuroscience Charan Ranganath discusses memory's powerful role in decision-making, trauma processing, and self-understanding. The conversation explores the intertwining of memory and imagination, the impact of sensory triggers on nostalgia, the significance of elders in preserving cultural traditions, the mysteries of sleep in memory consolidation, and the concept of memory optimization for shaping the present and future.

Mary Roach, author of 'Fuzz: When Nature Breaks the Law,' explores the curious science of human-wildlife conflict, from animals on trial in history to modern scientific approaches. She discusses wildlife crime, quirky audiobook narration, macabre tactics like effigies against vultures, and promoting coexistence between humans and animals.