Lost Debate

Dan Heath, a New York Times bestselling author renowned for his insights on personal and organizational change, dives into the art of breaking free from stagnation. He shares transformative case studies, like a hospital slashing delivery times and a school's innovative discipline strategies. The discussion shifts to the current government overhaul, questioning its efficacy versus aggressive efficiency tactics. Ultimately, Heath emphasizes that real change stems from small, strategic adjustments rather than grand initiatives, spotlighting the importance of identifying key leverage points.

Tommy Wood, an assistant professor of pediatrics and neuroscience at the University of Washington, shares expert insights on keeping our minds sharp as we age. He discusses the difference between fluid and crystallized intelligence and highlights how physical activity can boost cognitive resilience. Tommy emphasizes the surprising effects of quality sleep, social connections, and even dancing on brain health. He also argues that self-compassion is key for personal growth and stresses the importance of engaging in challenging activities to enhance mental capabilities.

Doug Lemov, author of "Teach Like a Champion," engages in a compelling conversation with Ravi Gupta, a former aspiring doctor turned education reformer. They dive into the erosion of trust in American schools and discuss the ideological battles shaping current education. Ravi shares his experiences founding schools and evolving views on school choice. They explore innovative education models, the significance of reading science, and what it takes to build a thriving school system by 2025, emphasizing autonomy, accountability, and community engagement.

Ravi kicks off the show by unpacking the latest economic headlines, from inflation trends to the impact of Trump’s unpredictable trade policies and how they could impact businesses and consumers. He also takes a closer look at Elon Musk, explaining why unlikely voices like Bill Burr and Dave Portnoy have criticized the billionaire over the past week and what it might mean for Musk’s future at the helm of DOGE. Ravi then turns to the Department of Education, which announced earlier this week that it had laid off 1,300 workers, effectively gutting its staff and raising serious questions about funding for schools nationwide. Finally, Stacey Shells Harvey, CEO of Regeneration Schools, joins Ravi to share her firsthand account of what it’s like to run schools in 2025. Stacey explains how the latest immigration policies have impacted schools, the state of student discipline, and how social media continues to fuel violence among kids. Stacey and Ravi also dive into pop culture, touching on everything from Kanye West and Meghan Markle to the rise of self-produced docuseries and whether they truly serve the interests of the audience.Leave us a voicemail with your thoughts on the show! 321-200-0570Pre-order Ravi’s novel and upcoming events: GARBAGE TOWN---Follow Ravi at @ravimguptaFollow Ravi on Goodreads: www.goodreads.com/ravimguptaFollow The Branch at @thebranchmediaNotes from this episode are available on Substack: https://thelostdebate.substack.com/Lost Debate is available on the following platforms:  • Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-lost-debate/id1591300785 • Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7xR9pch9DrQDiZfGB5oF0F • YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LostDebate • Google: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vTERJNTc1ODE3Mzk3Nw  • iHeart: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-the-lost-debate-88330217/ • Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.co.uk/podcasts/752ca262-2801-466d-9654-2024de72bd1f/the-lost-debate

Dr. Dhruv Khullar, a physician and nutrition expert at Cornell, joins to discuss crucial shifts in American science. He highlights how DOGE's influence on funding could undermine medical innovation. Diving into the alarming prevalence of ultra-processed foods, he reveals their role in driving overeating and chronic diseases. Dhruv emphasizes the food industry's impact on public health messaging, urging listeners to scrutinize dietary choices for better health outcomes. His insights shed light on the intersection of policy, science, and lifestyle.

Emily Oster, a New York Times bestselling author and economics professor, dives deep into pressing public health issues like the measles outbreak and vaccine hesitance. She reveals how misinformation complicates vaccination efforts and stresses the importance of rebuilding trust in health messaging post-COVID. Transitioning to parenting, Emily discusses the pitfalls of overprotectiveness, the illusion of control, and the benefits of granting kids more independence. Her insights challenge conventional views on parenting and self-care, emphasizing balance and partnership.

Richard Reeves, president of the American Institute for Boys and Men, dives into the alarming crisis facing young men in America. He discusses the troubling mental health issues, rising suicide rates, and isolation experienced by boys. Reeves highlights the educational disparities between genders, advocating for a deeper understanding of these challenges. The conversation also touches on the cultural shifts influenced by figures like Andrew Tate, alongside the need for balanced discussions around masculinity and justice in today’s polarized landscape.

In this engaging discussion, journalist Ross Barkan, contributing writer for The New York Times Magazine, sheds light on the crisis in traditional media and the rise of a new romanticism focused on authentic connections. He and Ravi delve into the evolving political landscape, including the influence of figures like Elon Musk in a flexible Republican coalition. They also explore the tumultuous New York mayoral race, examining Andrew Cuomo's potential comeback and the future of the Democratic Party amidst changing voter dynamics.

Dorsey Hopson, the former superintendent of Shelby County Schools, shares insights from his experience overseeing a complex school merger and de-merger in Memphis. He discusses the political and socioeconomic tensions that influenced the process, emphasizing the importance of community and parental involvement in education. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of school choice and the challenges faced amid educational reforms, showcasing how local activism plays a crucial role in shaping quality education.

The legal feud between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni is more than mere celebrity gossip; it reflects our current cultural climate. The discussion dives into how media shapes narratives around issues like the #MeToo movement and accountability. The hosts examine the public relations techniques at play and the implications for creative control in Hollywood. They also explore political biases and the importance of transparency in government actions. This controversy raises essential questions about power dynamics and the influence of social media on public perception.