Modern Wisdom

Dr. Paul Conti, a Stanford and Harvard-trained psychiatrist, dives deep into the hidden realms of the unconscious mind and its link to trauma. He explores how unprocessed experiences shape our identities, highlighting the iceberg analogy for thoughts and feelings. The discussion touches on ancestral trauma, the nuances of emotional responses, and the transformative power of self-dialogue. Dr. Conti emphasizes the importance of acknowledging negative inner narratives and offers insights into therapeutic methods that foster healing and self-awareness.

Join Rory Sutherland, Vice Chairman of Ogilvy Advertising and a leading consumer behavior expert, as he delves into the fascinating intersection of psychology and creativity in advertising. He reveals how dating apps could benefit from emulating property websites and critiques the societal implications of hotel room designs. Explore the humor in commitment rituals, the evolving nature of online dating, and the creative chaos that fuel breakthrough advertising. With witty insights, Rory illustrates how humor can reshape societal perceptions and enhance communication.

Dean Phillips, a U.S. House representative and presidential candidate, shares his unique perspective on the American political landscape. He discusses the backstabbing nature of both Congress and the business world, revealing the influence of donor incentives. Phillips draws fascinating parallels between his experience launching Belvedere Vodka and current political challenges, emphasizing the need for innovative marketing in politics. He also advocates for a new generation of leaders who prioritize integrity and open dialogue amidst today's divisive climate.

Rikki Schlott, a journalist and free speech activist, dives into the heated topic of cancel culture. She reveals insights from analyzing Twitter bans and questions if cancellations are truly on the rise. The conversation explores whether cancellers find joy in their actions, and if free speech is at risk in America. Schlott also discusses the influence of social media on self-censorship, particularly among students, and urges for reforms in education to encourage critical thinking and diverse viewpoints amidst growing political polarization.

Join Mary Harrington, a thought-provoking writer and author of "Feminism Against Progress," as she navigates the complexities of online sharing versus privacy. She discusses the concept of 'Digital Modesty' and how it shapes our relationships and identity. Mary critiques modern feminism through cultural references, including the Barbie movie, and tackles the evolving dynamics of masculinity and femininity. She also delves into the ethics of the surrogacy industry and the societal implications of our attitudes toward children versus pets.

Danny Polishchuk, a talented writer, comedian, and podcaster known for The Boyscast, joins the conversation to share his unique insights. He delves into his unexpected Instagram ban and the cultural frenzy surrounding Britney Spears and Taylor Swift. The chat also humorously tackles modern dilemmas like vasectomies for climate change and the chaos of SantaCon. Polishchuk reflects on the changing landscape of comedy, the struggles of social media fame, and the challenges posed by excessive protectionism in our lives.

Mike Thurston, a podcaster, YouTuber, and fitness model, discusses the alarming rise of male body dysmorphia, paralleling female struggles. He shares insights into how social media distorts self-perception and the importance of resilience. The conversation also covers the evolution of personal growth, balancing fame with fulfillment in fitness, and the need for authenticity in content creation. Thurston emphasizes consistency in fitness routines over intensity and reflects on adapting to life changes as priorities shift with age.

Alex O'Connor, a YouTuber and podcaster known for tackling moral dilemmas, discusses whether society is becoming more immoral in the digital age. He explores the effects of outsourcing morality to technologies like ChatGPT and Wikipedia. The conversation touches on nihilism's potential resurgence, the implications of free will, and the complexities of ethical debates driven by emotions and cultural paradigms. O'Connor also critiques historical narratives like the resurrection of Jesus, questioning the foundations of belief and morality in modern society.

Gregory Clark, a Professor of Economics at UC Davis, delves into the intriguing relationship between genetics and social status. He presents research demonstrating how hereditary factors can determine social standing across generations, highlighting the limited social mobility despite education. Clark discusses the role of physical attractiveness in shaping social status and how marriage patterns reinforce social stratification. Challenging conventional views, he reflects on the implications of these findings for meritocracy and the future of social equality.

James Smith, an insightful author and online trainer, shares his experiences and realizations from his recent live tour. He discusses the importance of celebrating small victories and navigating the messy journey of success. The conversation touches on the interplay of luck and preparation, as well as the challenges of modern decision-making. They emphasize authentic connections over online interactions and explore the evolving landscape of fitness culture, advocating for genuine coaching amidst social media noise.