Modern Wisdom

Russ Roberts, economist and Stanford research fellow, shares his insights on navigating life's big decisions. He discusses the limitations of economic models in matters like marriage and parenthood, emphasizing the interplay of rationality and emotion. Learn about Darwin's quirky checklist for marriage, the anxiety of procrastination, and the balance between pleasure and meaning in decision-making. Roberts also explores the uniqueness of transformative experiences and the role of self-awareness amid uncertainty, providing a refreshingly human perspective on life's choices.

Shawn Ryan, a former US Navy SEAL and CIA contractor, shares his incredible journey from covert operations to civilian life. He recounts training Keanu Reeves for 'John Wick' and the intense dedication it required. Ryan discusses the mental toll of military service, including struggles with PTSD and sobriety. He also dives into modern warfare’s shift towards cyber tactics, and how personal growth often comes through adversity. With insights on navigating grief and age stereotypes, this conversation is both enlightening and deeply personal.

Jonny and Yusef from Propane Fitness share their favorite life hacks for productivity and efficiency. They discuss the benefits of desk bikes and pressure cookers for a healthier lifestyle. Listeners will love the tips for accessing free Amazon delivery and getting the most out of Spotify. The duo also dives into unique cereal options for health enthusiasts, and how to enhance wellness with blue light blocking glasses. With humor and personal anecdotes, they make life optimization both entertaining and practical.

Kristina Durante, a marketing professor and social psychologist, explores the modern challenges women face in juggling careers and family life. She discusses whether women truly desire motherhood or careers, investigating societal pressures and biological influences. The conversation delves into the complexities of attraction, particularly the allure of 'bad boys' versus stable partners, and how women's financial independence reshapes relationship dynamics. Additionally, Kristina uncovers how women's ovulatory cycles affect preferences and the impact of societal expectations on their aspirations.

Ben Greenfield, a renowned biohacker, coach, and Ironman triathlete, dives into unconventional strategies for enhancing sexual performance. He shares his wild experiments, from gas station pills to stem cell injections, revealing unexpected benefits. Discover why the color of your penis might not be as alarming as it sounds and learn about the surprising health perks of Zevia soda. Ben also discusses the importance of diet and unique fitness technologies to optimize health, mixing humor with insightful anecdotes throughout the conversation.

William Costello is an evolutionary psychologist and Ph.D. student who dives into the complex world of incels. He shares eye-opening statistics about the future of single women and explores the psychological profiles of incels, revealing their struggle with social isolation. The discussion also touches on gender dynamics, including the challenges women face in the dating scene and the evolving standards in relationships. Costello emphasizes the need to understand the diverse backgrounds and mental health challenges within the incel community, urging for a deeper societal dialogue.

Celebrate reaching 500k subscribers with a candid Q&A, tackling topics like casual sex and political figures. Discover insights on reading habits, alcohol moderation, and personal growth. Explore the significance of meditation and addressing men's issues in modern society. Hear reflections on navigating challenges, relationships, and mental health, with practical advice for young listeners. The conversation balances humor and depth, emphasizing community support and the importance of meaningful connections in today's world.

Charlie Walker, an adventurous explorer and writer, shares gripping tales from his travels, particularly in post-war Russia. He recounts a harrowing detainment for alleged journalism and the complexities of navigating a repressive regime. Listeners will be fascinated by his 40,000-mile cycling journey for charity, exploring cultural intricacies along Europe's edge. Charlie also discusses the transition from an adventurous lifestyle to the stillness of home, highlighting the transformative power of travel and the importance of embracing change.

Dr. Christian Jarrett, deputy editor of Psyche magazine and an expert in personality science, delves into the fascinating world of personality change. He reveals why most personality tests fail to capture true character and the surprising genetic factors influencing who we are. Listeners will learn actionable strategies to overcome shyness, boost ambition, and sustain personal growth. With insights on how our traits evolve over time and their impact on life outcomes, this discussion is a must for anyone looking to reshape their identity and thrive.

Andrew Doyle, a comedian and writer known for his alter ego Titania McGrath, dives into the parallels between modern social justice movements and organized religion. He discusses how today’s activists echo the fervor of the Salem witch trials, bringing light to the dangers of ideological tyranny. The conversation tackles the evolving definitions of attraction, critiques cultural expectations, and examines the complexities surrounding identity and intersectionality. Doyle also addresses the emotional toll of engaging with cultural discourse in a digital age.