The Jordan Harbinger Show

A listener navigates the tricky task of introducing her boyfriend with a felony to her family. The hosts dive into the importance of transparency and acceptance in relationships, offering guidance on overcoming stigma. They also discuss the challenges of stepping into a leadership role in a concert booking company, emphasizing practical skills over traditional education. Additional topics include the impact of a spouse's phone addiction on family life and providing emotional support to loved ones facing loss.

Johann Hari, a New York Times best-selling author and compelling TED speaker, delves into the crisis of attention in our modern world. He reveals that our focus has been compromised not just by technology, but by societal structures over generations. Hari discusses how multitasking and digital distractions plague all age groups, with adults switching tasks every three minutes. He advocates for mindfulness and a collective movement to reclaim our attention, emphasizing the critical link between sleep quality and cognitive function.

Tessa West, a social psychology professor at NYU and author of "Jerks at Work", dives into the seven types of workplace jerks, including the micromanager and the gaslighter. She emphasizes the importance of conflict management skills for navigating toxic dynamics. The discussion reveals that these jerks often harm themselves too. Tessa shares tips on handling credit theft and ensuring your contributions are recognized. Furthermore, she highlights the need for building social connections to combat workplace challenges and avoid becoming a jerk yourself.

This discussion dives into the unsettling impact of living next to a neighbor grappling with severe mental illness, showcasing the emotional toll on the community. A poignant story illustrates the chaos and kindness intertwined in such situations, revealing the complexities of mental health. The hosts also tackle the challenging dilemma of navigating relationships amidst political and cultural differences, especially between a young woman in Russia and her boyfriend. Finally, they explore how to support grieving colleagues with sensitivity and respect, offering insights on empathy in the workplace.

Robert Greene, acclaimed author of bestsellers like 'The 48 Laws of Power,' shares insights on the emotional qualities that underpin success. He discusses the significance of mentorship, social intelligence, and keen observation for mastering skills. Greene encourages listeners to reconnect with their unique passions, highlighting that it's never too late for a career pivot. He emphasizes the value of apprenticeships in personal development and the importance of networking for achieving one's goals. This thought-provoking conversation is a treasure trove for aspiring masters.

Benjamin Hardy, an organizational psychologist and author known for his insights on willpower and self-transformation, discusses how prospection can help us visualize our future selves. He emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between avoidance-driven and approach-driven goals. Hardy explores the challenges of planning for a long life, advocating for connecting with our future selves to make better choices today. The conversation is filled with practical exercises and strategies for cultivating positive habits, making small changes that lead to significant personal growth.

A teen grappling with her identity faces the monumental challenge of coming out to her unsympathetic mother, who imposes church attendance that contradicts her beliefs. The discussion highlights mental health struggles like depression and anxiety, emphasizing the importance of finding understanding support. Additionally, they explore the complexities of workplace dynamics, addressing how to communicate sensitive feedback to loved ones while preserving their self-esteem. It's a deep dive into navigating family, identity, and the art of difficult conversations.

Ioan Grillo, a contributing writer at The New York Times and author specializing in crime and drugs, dives deep into the alarming flow of U.S. firearms to Mexican cartels. He highlights the staggering 200,000 guns that cross the border each year and discusses legal loopholes that facilitate this trafficking. The podcast also uncovers the role of 'straw buyers' and the implications of outdated gun laws that hamper effective policing. Grillo emphasizes the urgent need for reform to address the pervasive violence tied to these issues.

Ioan Grillo is a contributing writer at The New York Times, focusing on crime and drugs in Latin America. He shares his gripping transition from pirate radio to narco journalism, unveiling the chilling realities of cartel violence. Grillo highlights how American influence exacerbates the rise of gangs and reveals the heartbreaking plight of children forced into brutal work for the cartels. He recounts harrowing personal experiences while addressing the deep ties between organized crime and Mexico's justice system, making for a thought-provoking and intense discussion.

Exploring the nuances of open marriages, the conversation dives into the benefits and challenges of incorporating BDSM and ethical non-monogamy. With a focus on one partner's mental health struggles, the discussion highlights the essential role of communication and support. Listeners learn about navigating jealousy, guilt from financial success, and complex family dynamics, all while emphasizing the importance of trust, intimacy, and aftercare in relationships. The episode offers valuable insights for couples seeking to balance love and freedom.