Richard Reeves, a social scientist and author of "Of Boys and Men," delves into the struggling state of modern masculinity. He highlights alarming disparities in education, mental health, and economic prospects among men. Reeves argues that society often overlooks men's issues in fear of undermining women's advancements, advocating for a balanced approach. He emphasizes the importance of meaningful male friendships and community in combating isolation, while challenging outdated notions of masculinity and encouraging men to embrace their identities in a changing world.

Join Jessica Wynn, a writer and researcher dedicated to uncovering hidden truths, as she reveals the shocking story behind bananas. Discover how the United Fruit Company manipulated geopolitics and shaped U.S. foreign policy through power plays in Latin America. Learn about the dark history of banana worker exploitation and environmental destruction, including the tragic Banana Massacre. Uncover the inhumane conditions still faced by workers today, and rethink your next banana snack with insights into ethical consumption and the industry’s lasting impact.

A family struggles to locate a 105-year-old aunt who's vanished into the elder care system. Tensions arise as a relative keeps her whereabouts secret. The hosts also discuss emotional challenges when a cousin's ex-wife reaches out, stirring up painful memories from the past. Navigating workplace dynamics, they explore the impact of a toxic boss on career advancement. Each topic dives into complex family ties, trauma, and the importance of boundaries, blending humor with heartfelt insights.

Dr. David Eagleman, a prominent neuroscientist known for his insights into the brain and perception, tackles intriguing topics in this discussion. He reveals why counterfeit money tricks the brain and suggests innovative watermark designs using faces. Eagleman shares research on empathy, explaining why we struggle to connect with those outside our social groups. He addresses the challenges of true mind reading and the philosophical dilemmas surrounding uploading consciousness to digital forms, questioning if that 'upload' would truly be you.

Join Dave Farina, author and host of Professor Dave Debates, as he takes a critical look at Feng Shui. He unpacks the ancient practice's principles, such as the commanding position and the mysterious bagua energy map. Dave distinguishes between genuine interior design and the mystical claims of Feng Shui, emphasizing how terms like 'energy' are often misinterpreted. The discussion critiques the blend of aesthetics with vague scientific concepts, exploring how cultural beliefs influence perceptions of space and harmony.

Dive into a friend's shocking ethical crisis as she navigates an affair with a mentally unstable patient. Discover the complexities between accountability and compassion when personal relationships turn professionally dangerous. The conversation shifts to familial dynamics, exploring the struggles of being the family outcast while your partner’s loyalty is in question. Career uncertainty looms for a long-time employee facing relocation, raising questions about loyalty and future goals. Get ready for a thought-provoking blend of humor and heartfelt reflections!

Scott Payne, a retired FBI undercover agent, shares gripping tales of infiltrating the Outlaws motorcycle gang. He discusses the intense psychological toll of creating genuine friendships with criminals while facing imminent danger, including a harrowing strip-search that nearly cost him his life. Payne reveals the importance of authenticity in undercover work, balancing his real self with a fabricated persona. He emphasizes the need for mental health support for undercover agents and reflects on the ethical dilemmas faced in high-stakes operations.

Nick Pell, a writer and researcher, joins to discuss the surge in homeschooling, which skyrocketed from 2.5 million kids in 2019 to 6 million by 2021-2022. He challenges stereotypes, revealing that homeschool costs are surprisingly low and often outperform traditional education in college. The conversation reveals mixed results on social development among homeschooled children, emphasizing the importance of social involvement. Pell also reassures that it's never too late to start homeschooling, stressing parental instincts and research over qualifications.

This episode tackles a father's heart-wrenching battle within Norway's legal system, as he strives to protect his special-needs child from an ex with a troubling history. The hosts discuss the emotional toll of wildfires on communities, highlighting the disparities in media coverage for different tragedies. Additionally, they explore coping strategies for dealing with a toxic authority figure in academia, while also addressing the challenges of supporting loved ones with severe mental health issues. Empathy and resilience emerge as key themes throughout the conversation.

Anne Applebaum, a renowned historian and author specializing in autocracy, dives into the intricate networks among modern dictatorships. She explains how these regimes, like Russia and China, collaborate for financial gain and technological advancement while undermining democratic values. Applebaum highlights the chilling evolution of China's surveillance technology and addresses how slow, insidious declines in democracy catch citizens off guard. She emphasizes the importance of local political engagement to combat polarization and strengthen democratic resilience.