The Knowledge Project

In this engaging discussion, Code Cubitt, Managing Director of Mistral Venture Partners, shares his inspiring journey from being expelled twice to thriving in venture capital. He dives into the critical traits of successful founders and emphasizes the importance of coachability in startups. Listeners learn about the delicate dynamics of investor-founder relationships and common pitfalls during scaling. Code also highlights how effective decision-making can transform organizations, especially in times of crisis, and the evolving roles of board members in supporting growth.

Chamath Palihapitiya, Founder and CEO of Social Capital, shares his candid insights on investing and society. He discusses the importance of understanding personal happiness and authenticity, contrasting societal expectations with true fulfillment. Chamath delves into the psychology of investing, highlighting self-awareness and integrity in leadership. He also explores the dynamics of global politics and its impact on investment strategies, emphasizing sustainable and community-driven financial empowerment. Tune in for thought-provoking perspectives on resilience and emotional health.

Matt Holland, a leading cybersecurity authority and CEO of Field Effect Security, shares his insights on the hacking landscape and the mindset of cyber attackers. He discusses the complexities of zero-day vulnerabilities and emphasizes the importance of adaptive strategies for businesses. Holland reflects on his transition from government roles to entrepreneurship, the importance of engaging effectively with cybersecurity vendors, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding tech giants like Huawei. His talk sheds light on the increasing necessity for user-friendly security solutions in today's digital world.

Lisa Feldman Barrett, a distinguished psychology professor at Northeastern University, dives into the intricate workings of our emotions and the brain. She challenges the notion of fixed emotional expressions and emphasizes the context-dependent nature of feelings. Barrett discusses the importance of emotional regulation, the impact of environment on mental health, and the interconnectedness of our emotional and physical well-being. She also highlights mindfulness as a tool for navigating emotional responses and enhancing decision-making.

Russ Hudson, an author and co-founder of the Enneagram Institute, dives deep into the nuances of the Enneagram personality system. He explains how understanding our personality types enhances self-awareness and personal growth. The conversation explores the intersections between mindfulness, emotional presence, and the Enneagram's influence on relationships. Hudson discusses the vital role of empathy in authentic connections and sheds light on the interplay between vulnerability and ego, emphasizing the importance of being present in our everyday interactions.

Apolo Ohno, an eight-time Olympic medalist and bestselling author, shares his inspiring journey from a young athlete to a champion. He discusses the importance of resilience and the life lessons learned from his single father's support. Ohno delves into the psychological aspects of competition, focusing on emotional control and the balance of success with personal growth. He also reflects on the significance of his 2002 Olympic gold medal, emphasizing its emotional weight amid national turmoil and his transition to life beyond sports.

Maria Konnikova, a professional poker player and psychologist renowned for her bestselling books, dives deep into decision-making under uncertainty. She shares her unexpected journey from writing to poker, revealing how chance and skill intertwine in both. Konnikova discusses the value of mentorship and reflection in honing one's decision-making abilities. Delving into Kantian insights, she emphasizes emotional awareness as crucial for judgment. Drawing parallels between poker and life, she advocates for a mindful, inquisitive approach to personal growth.

Derek Sivers, musician and entrepreneur known for founding CD Baby, shares his insights on creativity and personal growth. He discusses the tension between innovation and imitation and emphasizes simplicity in creative processes. Sivers reflects on the importance of quality decision-making and the value of delegation in business. He shares transformative lessons from 'Awaken the Giant Within' and the significance of emotional control. With humor, he explores priorities in parenting and the subjective nature of life's meaning, encouraging listeners to cherish the present.

Hannah Fry, a mathematician and author known for her engaging approach to complex ideas, discusses the profound impact of algorithms on our lives. She delves into the role of mathematics in relationships, revealing how optimal stopping theory can enhance dating. Fry highlights the emotional gap in technology, referencing the chess match between Garry Kasparov and AI Deep Blue. She also addresses the ethical implications of algorithms and how personal narratives can humanize mathematics, enriching our understanding while navigating modern societal challenges.

BJ Fogg, a Stanford behavior scientist and founder of the Behavior Design Lab, shakes up our understanding of habits. He reveals that emotions, not repetition, are key to lasting change. Fogg's three-phase system simplifies breaking difficult behaviors and emphasizes redesigning your environment for effortless success. He introduces his clever 'super fridge' concept to boost healthy eating. This insightful discussion provides a science-based blueprint for building better habits or breaking bad ones in just five days.