
Smart People Podcast
Smart People Podcast is a biweekly, interview-based podcast that features today's most well respected thought leaders engaging in authentic, insightful conversation for the benefit of the listener. The host, Chris Stemp, and his co-host/producer Jon Rojas, utilize their insatiable curiosity and relatable charm to provoke their guests into giving the interview of a lifetime. Every single guest has achieved a high level of recognition within their arena and in doing so has collected a wealth of experiences and insights that are brought to life in this top ranked podcast. Show topics include: psychology, leadership, education, technology, entrepreneurship, relationships, and much more.
Latest episodes

Jan 15, 2025 • 57min
Weight Loss and Willpower: The Science of Metabolic Health and GLP-1s with Dr. Alexandra Sowa
In this episode of Smart People Podcast, Dr. Alexandra Sowa, an expert in obesity and metabolic health, reveals the groundbreaking science behind GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and their impact on weight loss and overall health. Dr. Sowa explains how hormones like insulin, GLP-1, and leptin influence hunger, satiety, and fat storage—and how these signals can become disrupted, leading to weight gain and metabolic dysfunction. She discusses why traditional weight loss advice like "calories in, calories out" often fails, especially in the modern world of ultra-processed foods.You’ll also learn how GLP-1s interact with the brain to reduce food cravings and regulate appetite, offering new hope for those struggling with weight loss. From resetting hunger levels to addressing neurohormonal imbalances, Dr. Sowa provides actionable insights for anyone interested in improving their metabolic health. Whether you’re curious about these medications or want to better understand the science of metabolism, this episode is packed with eye-opening information.Dr. Sowa's book, The Ozempic Revolution: A Doctor's Proven Plan for Success to Help You Reverse Obesity, End Yo-Yo Dieting, and Protect Yourself from Disease, is available wherever books are sold.You can learn more about Dr. Sowa at alexandrasowamd.com.Support the Show - Become a Patron!Help us grow and become a Patron today: https://www.patreon.com/smartpeoplepodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 24, 2024 • 13min
Reflections - How Learning About Mysticism Has Changed the Way I Live (Simon Critchley Episode)
Introducing 'Reflections,' a new twist on our classic podcast format. In this special new series, I'm flipping the script - instead of interviewing an expert, I'm sharing my personal takeaways, insights, and action items from our previous conversation. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at how our expert's wisdom is impacting my life, and discover how you can apply these lessons to your own journey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

11 snips
Dec 17, 2024 • 57min
What Mysticism Can Teach Us About Living Well, with Philosopher Simon Critchley
In this enlightening discussion, Simon Critchley, a distinguished philosopher and author of "Mysticism," explores how mysticism transcends religious boundaries and can enhance our lives. He emphasizes the importance of embracing the unknown and living intensely. The conversation dives into the power of music to evoke mystical experiences, the role of awe in deepening our connection with nature, and the balance between introspection and emotional intelligence. Critchley illustrates how transformative mystical moments can lead to profound joy and understanding.

Dec 11, 2024 • 14min
Reflections - My 4 Biggest Lessons from Richard Cytowic
Introducing 'Reflections,' a new twist on our classic podcast format. In this special episode, I'm flipping the script - instead of interviewing an expert, I'm sharing my personal takeaways, insights, and action items from our previous conversation. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at how our expert's wisdom is impacting my life, and discover how you can apply these lessons to your own journey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dec 3, 2024 • 1h 4min
Stone Age Brain, Screen Age Problem - The Truth About Technology and Your Brain with Richard Cytowic
Join award-winning neurologist Richard Cytowic as he reveals the surprising reasons behind our screen addictions. Our brains, unchanged since the Stone Age, are woefully unprepared for the temptations of modern technology. Cytowic explains how ancient instincts like desire, reward and competition are hijacked by Big Tech, leading to unhealthy attachments.Discover the hidden mechanisms driving your screen behavior and, more importantly, learn practical strategies to regain control. Take the first step towards breaking the cycle of addiction and reclaim your life in the Screen Age.Richard's book, Your Stone Age Brain in the Screen Age: Coping with Digital Distraction and Sensory Overload, is available wherever books are sold.You can learn more about Richard at cytowic.net.Support the Show - Become a Patron!Help us grow and become a Patron today: https://www.patreon.com/smartpeoplepodcastSponsors:Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/spp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 19, 2024 • 52min
Life in the Corporate Blender: Why Change is Making Work Worse with Ashley Goodall
For decades, “disruption” and “change” have been seen as essential to business growth and success. Whether it’s a merger or re-org or a new office layout, change has become the ultimate easy button for leaders, who pursue it with abandon, unleashing a torrent of disruption on employees. The result is what our guest calls “life in the blender”—a perpetual cycle of upheaval, uncertainty, and unease.Join us this week as we discuss the current state of change in corporate America, why change is not the same as improvement, and what we can do about it.Ashley's book, The Problem with Change: And the Essential Nature of Human Performance, is available wherever books are sold.You can learn more about Ashley at ashleygoodall.com.Support the Show - Become a Patron!Help us grow and become a Patron today: https://www.patreon.com/smartpeoplepodcastSponsors:Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/spp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nov 5, 2024 • 1h 2min
Eliminate Work Fatigue and Optimize Your Productivity with Neuroscientist, Dr. Mithu Storoni
Dr. Mithu Storoni, a renowned neuroscientist and author of "Hyperefficient", discusses how to reshape workplace efficiency by aligning work with our brain's natural rhythms. She challenges the notion that busyness equals productivity and emphasizes the importance of creativity in knowledge work. Storoni shares strategies for transitioning between creative and focused tasks, the role of natural light in enhancing performance, and the necessity of incorporating breaks to reduce fatigue. Her insights advocate for a cultural shift in how we approach work.

Oct 23, 2024 • 52min
What’s Your Strategy? How to Drive Progress in Your Business and Your Life with Seth Godin
Are you tired of quick fixes and short-term thinking? Do you want to make a lasting impact but feel stuck in outdated systems? In this episode we interview one of the all-time greats, Seth Godin, about his new book, This Is Strategy: Make Better Plans. Tune in to learn how to drive positive change, whether you’re revolutionizing an industry, sparking a movement, or building a career.Seth's book, This Is Strategy: Make Better Plans, is available wherever books are sold.You can learn more about Seth at seths.blog.Support the Show - Become a Patron!Help us grow and become a Patron today: https://www.patreon.com/smartpeoplepodcastSponsors:Babbel - Get 60% off your Babbel subscription at babbel.com/sppShopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/spp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Oct 9, 2024 • 53min
How the World Ran Out of Everything: Inside the Global Supply Chain with Peter Goodman
How does the wealthiest country on earth run out of protective gear in the middle of a public health catastrophe? How do its parents find themselves unable to locate crucially needed infant formula? How do its largest companies spend billions of dollars making cars that no one can drive for a lack of chips?The last few years have radically highlighted the intricacy and fragility of the global supply chain. In this episode we speak with award-winning journalist Peter S. Goodman about the inner workings of our supply chain and the factors that have led to its constant, dangerous vulnerability.Peter's book, How the World Ran Out of Everything: Inside the Global Supply Chain, is available wherever books are sold.You can learn more about Peter at petersgoodman.com.Support the Show - Become a Patron!Help us grow and become a Patron today: https://www.patreon.com/smartpeoplepodcastSponsors:Babbel - Get 60% off your Babbel subscription at babbel.com/sppShopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/spp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sep 24, 2024 • 1h 1min
Overcome Perfectionism and Unlock Your Full Potential with Dr. Mary Anderson
Dr. Mary Anderson, an author and expert in overcoming perfectionism, provides transformative insights to help high achievers break free from the constraints of perfectionism. She discusses practical strategies like the 8 Essentials that encourage embracing mistakes and instilling gratitude for success. Dr. Anderson explores the emotional ties of perfectionism, emphasizing cognitive behavioral therapy as a key tool for managing anxiety. Discover how focusing on balance, healthy self-care, and a positive mindset can unlock your true potential and happiness!
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