Modern Wisdom

The podcast features Eric, the frontman of I Prevail, alongside bandmates Gabe, Dylan, John, and Steve, who share insights on life as a rock band. They discuss the resurgence of rock touring, the emotional depth in their music, and the balance between creativity and marketing in today's industry. The members reflect on personal songwriting, the challenges of touring, and coping with loss while performing. Additionally, they explore the impact of AI on music and their aspirations for sonic exploration. It's a candid dive into the life of a modern rock band.

Sheehan Quirke, a British writer and online educator known as The Cultural Tutor, explores the decline of beauty in modern culture. He discusses how efficiency has overshadowed elegance and critiques today's sterile architecture, arguing for a balance of beauty and function. Quirke highlights the charm of historical infrastructure, the importance of a richer cultural diet, and the need for genuine emotional connections in a world dominated by convenience. He passionately defends the role of art and architecture in enriching public life and suggests we can rediscover beauty in our cities.

Louise Perry, a passionate writer and press officer advocating for consent reform, joins Mary Harrington, a columnist focused on culture and gender. They dive into the phenomena of declining sexual activity among young people and discuss how technology and modern societal expectations have altered attraction and relationships. Conversations touch on the impact of celebrity culture on fertility, the rise of new male archetypes, and the social dynamics of dating in a low-trust environment. Their insights reveal the complexities shaping modern connections.

Jessica Baum, a psychotherapist and relationship expert, dives into the complexities of feeling safe in relationships. She explores how childhood experiences shape our attachments and why anxious and avoidant partners are often drawn to each other. Baum discusses the signs of feeling unsafe, protection strategies people adopt, and the difference between healthy independence and disconnection. She shares practical healing methods and emphasizes the importance of vulnerability in building trust and intimacy.

Finn Taylor and Horatio Gould, comedians and co-hosts of Finn vs History, dive into the quirks of our past with humor and insight. They discuss Japan's seppuku and the strange honor culture behind it, along with the complex motivations for using atomic bombs in WWII. The duo reflects on the post-war political landscape of Britain and the eccentric characters who shaped it. They also tackle the rise of pro-Hitler media, the implications of ironic internet culture, and the historical mysteries like the Dancing Plague of 1518, showcasing history as both a freakshow and a vital lesson.

Peter Crouch, former Premier League footballer and now a broadcaster, shares his insights on football culture and mental health. He discusses how social media has revolutionized player expression, enabling them to share their true selves with fans. Crouch reflects on the pressures of masculinity in football, and the paradox of mental health discussions amidst a macho culture. He also talks about life after sport, the transition from structured training, and the challenges players face with financial and mental health issues post-retirement.

Dr. Jonathan Anomaly is a philosopher and author specializing in ethics and public policy. In a thought-provoking discussion, he explores the potential of embryo selection, from erasing genetic diseases to selecting traits like intelligence. He highlights the ethical dilemmas of playing God and the slippery slope toward eugenics. Anomaly debates the societal implications, including inequality and parental responsibilities. Ultimately, he advocates for transparency in genetic practices while pondering how these advancements might redefine our views on luck and merit.

Rob Henderson, a psychologist with a PhD from Cambridge and Senior Fellow at the Manhattan Institute, explores why having a boyfriend is considered 'cringe' today. He connects this shift to modern cultural dynamics, including how elite messaging creates pressures that suppress relationships. They discuss the role of social media in distorting real-life connections and the impact of female intersexual competition on dating. Henderson highlights how societal standards can influence young men's behavior and the rising importance of appearance in the dating landscape.

In this engaging discussion, philosopher Alain de Botton, founder of The School of Life, dives into the complexities of emotions and self-esteem. He explores how childhood shapes our ambitions and criticizes the harsh self-judgment many experience. Alain reframes imposter syndrome as a sign of self-awareness, highlights the need for social reassurance, and discusses the importance of vulnerability in masculinity. He also offers insights on appreciating art and managing disappointment in relationships, prompting listeners to embrace small joys and personal connections.

Dr. Marc Brackett is a Yale professor and emotional intelligence expert. He discusses our struggle to feel emotions and how many adults can't name basic feelings. Learn about the RULER framework and its role in effective emotional regulation, which is essential for success and wellbeing. Marc explains the importance of 'permission to feel' and how reframing challenges like envy can lead to personal growth. He emphasizes the need for emotional education in schools and the power of empathy in creating supportive environments.