The Knowledge Project

Ryan Holiday, a New York Times bestselling author and modern philosopher, shares insights on Stoicism's practicality for achieving success and emotional balance. He discusses his disciplined writing process, the importance of journaling for self-reflection, and the four cardinal virtues of Stoicism. Holiday emphasizes the dichotomy of control, the significance of swift decision-making, and learning from mistakes. His engaging perspective on balancing ambition and fulfillment in modern life makes for an enlightening conversation.

This collection features brilliant minds like Kat Cole, a business leader known for her rise through Focus Brands, and Noreena Hertz, a loneliness expert whose work critiques societal norms. Adam Grant reveals the importance of intellectual humility, while NASA's Thomas Zurbuchen discusses complex decision-making in space missions. Jane McGonigal showcases the benefits of gaming on skills, and Nir Eyal offers strategies to combat distraction. Seth Godin, Angela Duckworth, and Jim Collins further explore creativity, mindset, and trust in relationships, providing invaluable insights from diverse fields.

Nancy Sherman, a distinguished philosopher and ethics expert at the Naval Academy, dives into the powerful links between Stoicism and military honor. She discusses how ancient philosophies can help manage emotions and enhance decision-making in high-pressure environments. Sherman shares techniques for building resilience and emphasizes the difference between honor and virtue. Listeners gain insights into self-control, cognitive biases, and effective communication strategies, alongside practical stoic exercises to navigate relationships with empathy and self-compassion.

Paul Rabil, a standout professional lacrosse player and co-founder of the Premier Lacrosse League, shares his insights on success in sports and business. He reflects on his transition from lacrosse to contemplating the NFL, including a pivotal moment with Bill Belichick. Rabil emphasizes the importance of mental resilience, balance, and strategies for managing stress. He draws parallels between sports dynamics and business, highlighting how empathy fosters collaboration. With a focus on personal growth, he discusses finding inner peace amidst life's challenges.

Douglas Rushkoff, an author and professor of Media Theory and Digital Economics, tackles the profound impact of technology on society. He discusses the evolution of media, highlighting the polarization and misinformation plaguing today's discourse. Rushkoff offers insights on cultivating empathy amid divisive ideologies and the importance of community engagement. He also explores how digital platforms affect personal expression and creativity, while advocating for mindful communication and kindness as pathways to personal peace.

William Irvine, a philosophy professor at Wright State University and author of several books on Stoicism, discusses the relevance of this ancient philosophy in today’s world. He emphasizes the importance of self-discipline and decision-making for a meaningful life. Irvine shares his own journey from Zen Buddhism to Stoicism, highlighting strategies like negative visualization and the dichotomy of control. The conversation also explores teaching Stoicism to foster resilience in children, navigating difficult relationships, and embracing failure as part of personal growth.

Robert Cialdini, a leading expert in influence and author of bestselling books on persuasion, shares fascinating insights on the psychology of getting people to say “Yes.” He discusses seven principles of ethical persuasion, emphasizing the power of reciprocity and the importance of genuine relationships. Cialdini illustrates how comparisons between authority and expertise shape our trust and decisions. He also dives into how scarcity can trigger urgency, revealing how personal connections can enhance persuasive efforts in both life and business.

Walter Isaacson, a renowned journalist and biographer, dives into the link between curiosity and creativity, drawing on insights from figures like Steve Jobs and Leonardo da Vinci. He explores how innovative giants harnessed curiosity to reshape the world and discusses Ada Lovelace as the pioneer of programming. Isaacson also tackles the ethical implications of CRISPR technology and emphasizes the importance of collaboration in science. With stories of creativity in physical spaces versus virtual interactions, he reveals how these dynamics influence our modern innovations.

Chris Bosh, a two-time NBA champion and Basketball Hall of Fame inductee, shares his insights on achieving greatness in sports and life. He discusses the drive and hunger necessary for young athletes and the importance of balancing individual aspirations with team success. Bosh reflects on his journey from emulating basketball heroes to developing a personal playing style. He underscores the significance of leading by example, mental resilience, and the lasting impact of mentors in shaping one's legacy, both on and off the court.

Todd Simkin, Associate Director at Susquehanna International Group, shares his wealth of experience in financial services and trader education. He discusses the intricate decision-making process, focusing on the differences between financial and interpersonal choices. Simkin stresses the importance of asking the right questions and fostering critical thinking. He also highlights how mentorship and feedback shape decision-making, and shares personal stories, including a transformative conversation with his father on the impact of thoughtful choices.