Modern Wisdom

Michael Gelb, an executive coach and leading author on Leonardo da Vinci, shares insights into da Vinci’s remarkable thinking principles. He discusses the seven crucial rules that can enhance creativity and problem-solving skills. Listeners learn about the balance between immediate gratification and long-term satisfaction as well as how genuine curiosity can unlock profound insights. Gelb emphasizes the importance of intentional living and emotional intelligence while navigating the complexities of life, inspired by Leonardo’s enduring genius.

Nedd Brockmann, an Australian ultramarathon runner, motivational speaker, and philanthropist, shares his extraordinary journey of endurance and social impact. He discusses running 1000 miles in 12.5 days for charity, critiquing the notion of toxic masculinity in sports. Nedd reveals his love-hate relationship with running, his endurance diet, and the emotional challenges he's faced. He emphasizes the importance of mental toughness and resilience in overcoming hurdles while advocating for homelessness awareness and personal growth.

Michael Morris, a professor of cultural psychology at Columbia University and author, dives into the deep waters of tribalism. He explores why humans naturally gravitate toward groups, touching on the evolutionary benefits and costs of this tendency. Morris discusses how language shapes social preferences more than race and examines the impact of technology on today's polarized societies. He also highlights the interplay between courage and community in challenging times, advocating for dialogue to bridge the increasing divides in modern life.

In this enlightening conversation, Lionel Page, a professor at the University of Queensland and evolutionary psychology expert, dives into the elusive nature of happiness. He reveals how social media influences our perceptions and leads to distorted self-assessments. Page discusses the paradox of pursuing high aspirations, often overshadowing true contentment, and emphasizes that happiness stems from personal growth, not wealth. He also explores the importance of community and evolutionary instincts in finding meaning in life.

Dr. Mike Israetel, a Professor of Exercise and Sport Science and co-founder of Renaissance Periodization, discusses the science of longevity in this enlightening conversation. He explores how genetics and lifestyle choices dictate our lifespan, debunking myths about diet and exercise. Topics include the importance of muscle mass, social connections, and effective stress management. Dr. Israetel also dives into exciting advancements in biotechnology and AI that could change our approach to aging, sparking a thought-provoking dialogue on the future of health and wellness.

Dave Smith, a stand-up comedian and astute political commentator, dives into the eroding trust in mainstream media. He critiques their consistent failures and refusal to acknowledge mistakes, contrasting this with the rise of alternative voices. Dave discusses the pitfalls of social media echo chambers, the complexities of libertarianism, and the challenges of political change. His insights reveal how corporate narratives often clash with authentic perspectives, emphasizing the need for diverse dialogue to foster genuine understanding.

Cenk Uygur, a political commentator and founder of The Young Turks, dives into the aftermath of the US elections, questioning the left's internal conflicts and the impact of wokeism. He discusses whether the election results signify a right-wing victory or a left-wing loss, and the potential for collaborations between the left and right. Cenk critiques media biases and the disparities between grassroots movements and establishment figures, all while advocating for a more populist approach to address class struggles and government accountability.

Dewayne Noel is a wrangler, educator, and founder of Dry Creek Wrangler School. He shares insights on finding balance in a hustle-driven world and the importance of savoring life. Dewayne discusses his journey from anger to calm, highlighting the transformative lessons learned through horses. He critiques traditional success metrics, advocating for well-being over relentless ambition. The conversation also covers the complexities of masculinity, emphasizing vulnerability and respect in relationships, and the vital role of fatherhood in shaping culture.

Mads Larsen, an author and journalist specializing in human mating ideologies, dives into the crisis of declining birth rates. He discusses the backlash he faced for addressing Norway's fertility decline and highlights the psychological dynamics influencing modern relationships. The conversation touches on the socio-economic consequences of dwindling fertility, the impact of evolving social norms on mating choices, and the urgent need for societal frameworks to support parenthood in today’s complex landscape.

Vani Hari, author and activist behind Food Babe, uncovers alarming truths about the U.S. food industry. She reveals the shocking contrast between ingredients allowed in American foods versus those banned in Europe. Hari shares her activism journey, including a powerful protest at Kellogg's headquarters against harmful cereal ingredients. The conversation dives into the disturbing practices of food manufacturers and the conflicts of interest in food science, advocating for greater transparency and accountability to ensure consumer safety.