The Yes Theory Podcast

Get ready to explore why discomfort can be a pathway to self-discovery! The hosts dive into heart-pumping experiences, from marathon running to icy challenges, discussing how these moments reshape our identities. Dianne Bondy shares insights on how our narratives limit growth, while Aaron Ferguson reveals the true value of preparation over outcomes. The conversation highlights that you don't need extreme challenges for change—consistent habits can do the trick. Tune in for inspiring stories that encourage redefining who you think you are!

Ever struggled to do your laundry, re-register your car, or make time to go to the dentist? It might make you feel like you’re terrible at “adulting,” but it turns out that’s actually more normal than you think and there might be a pretty solid explanation: burnout. Anne Helen Peterson, author of Can’t Even: How Millennials Became the Burnout Generation, joins Matt in this episode to talk about the costs of living in an achievement-obsessed culture, how monetizing what you love can get in the way of building a life, and the systemic issues that have perpetuated a system of workaholism. We also hear personal burnout experiences from members of the Yes Theory community. And through these accounts, we realize - we’re all struggling to find a sense of balance in our lives. Generationally, we have no safety net. Job security feels like an illusion and pension-style retirement packages are a relic of the past. And the alternative offer of personal freedom - to work wherever, whenever - comes with a lot of costs to health and happiness. We are tethered to our devices, and feel like insufficient human beings when we aren’t being productive.  Though we’ve been trained to believe we need to do more to be more, maybe it’s actually the other way around. But how do we start altering the system and building lives that we don’t feel the need to escape from? That’s what we’re getting into in this episode. To learn more on the topic of generational burnout, check out Anne’s book. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dina Shihabi, an accomplished actress known for her role in Jack Ryan, shares her inspiring journey from a multicultural upbringing in the Arab world to her successful acting career. She talks about the challenges of pursuing her passions, including dance and acting, in the face of cultural expectations and family pressures. Dina emphasizes how vital hope is to her aspirations, describing it as an active force that drives change and resilience. Their conversation highlights the power of storytelling and representation in uplifting marginalized voices.

Andy Puddicombe, former monk and co-founder of Headspace, shares invaluable insights on managing anxiety through mindfulness. He emphasizes that anxiety is a natural part of life, encouraging listeners to confront it rather than distract themselves. The hosts recount personal stories of grappling with anxiety and the importance of grounding practices. Andy offers practical meditation tips, discussing how everyday actions can be opportunities for mindfulness. With a challenge to engage fully in daily activities, he inspires a journey toward inner peace and presence.

François Clemmons, renowned as Officer Clemmons from Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, shares heartfelt stories about Fred Rogers' profound kindness. He discusses how Fred acted as a beacon of love and inclusion during turbulent times, emphasizing the importance of treating others with compassion. Clemmons reflects on pivotal moments, like the iconic feet-in-water scene that symbolized solidarity. Alongside kindness advocate Houston Kraft, they explore barriers to kindness, urging listeners to embrace small, daily acts that can foster a more compassionate world.

Before Yes Theory, we were just three guys trying to figure out what we wanted to do in life. We didn’t know much, just that we didn’t want to walk predictable paths. Luckily, we each had mentors that inspired us to stop thinking and start doing--anything and everything outside our comfort zones.  In this episode, we call back two of those early mentors to talk about why having novel experiences is so crucial for creativity, meaningful relationships, and business. And how it is truly the foundation for making any dream happen. Jason Silva is the host of the award winning show, Brain Games, and is a self-described epiphany junkie. Ben Nemtin is the acclaimed writer, public speaker, and television personality from Matt’s favorite MTV show, The Buried Life.  Together, these two wise stages help us figure out - how do we start breaking routine and chasing our dreams (even in the world’s current conditions)? Is now really the time to prioritize our personal goals? And above all else, how do we push through the fear of trying new things? This episode is sponsored by: LinkedIn - Get $50 off your first job post at LinkedIn.com/YesTheory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Harvard Professor and Atlantic columnist Arthur Brooks discusses being an entrepreneur about your life. Ozan Varol, rocket scientist and author, talks about why he dropped out of his career. Is now the time to play it safe or take risks? How can we make the best of this year and move through uncertainty? Dealing with disappointment and uncertainty. Reflecting on difficult career choices and fear of uncertainty. Creating space, taking risks, and dealing with uncertainty.

Welcome to Yes Theory — the audio experience. We’re your hosts Thomas Brag, Ammar Kandil, and Matt Dajer. You may know us from our YouTube channel with the same name, or maybe not.  We believe the best things in life are outside your comfort zone. We’re talking about meaning, connection, you know all the good stuff. Over the last 5 years, we’ve made a habit of seeking discomfort and creating videos about it. We’ve had the unthinkable honor of traveling around the world, conquering everyday fears - with friends, strangers, celebrities, and each other.    In this show, we’re going to reflect on some of the experiences we’ve never shared before, digging into our own personal archives. We’ll also be chatting with expert guests and friends to find out why this idea of “seeking discomfort” is so powerful.   We’re super excited to bring you this show. Subscribe wherever you’re seeing this trailer. New episodes drop weekly—starting very, very soon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices