Podcast host Andrea Chalupa interviews David McRaney about psychological research on handling contentious conversations, including tips for holiday discussions, persuasion techniques, effective communication, empathy and understanding, and the power of conversations in changing minds.

In this episode, Emily Monosson, an expert in deadly fungal infections, discusses the potential dangers of fungi and their impact on wildlife, crops, and humans. They explore the concept of cordyceps and its influence on 'The Last of Us', as well as the risk of a fungal pandemic. The chapter also highlights the diverse kingdom of fungi and the challenges of cleanliness in space.

Greg Satell, a communication expert, discusses the concept of cascades and how small changes can lead to significant consequences. He explores the principles of cascades, the influence of weak ties, and the importance of clusters and connections. Satell also emphasizes the value of generosity in innovation, the mobilization of stakeholders for change, and the emergence of resistance in successful change efforts.

Jesse Richardson, Founder of ConspiracyTest.org, discusses the Conspiracy Test project, promoting critical thinking without shaming. They explore tough emotions, offer an ad for McDonald's new sauces, and talk about creating an online curriculum for critical thinking. Reflecting on past behavior, they emphasize connection and cooperation. Learn how to access free resources and support the Conspiracy Test and School of Thought projects.

Annie Duke, author of Quit: The power of knowing when to walk away, discusses the importance of quitting and decision making, the benefits of therapy, the game 'katamari,' and the difficulty of separating identity from beliefs.

Guest Douglas Rushkoff, media scholar and professor of digital economics, discusses his new book about the survival strategies of tech billionaires. Topics include the philosophy of objectivism in BioShock, the manipulation of power in digital technology, mysterious number stations, billionaire preppers' escape fantasies, and the power of compassion in the digital age.

The podcast explores the difficulty of defining 'genius' and delves into the science of human potential. It includes conversations with a little girl showcasing her incredible creations, the controversy surrounding genius IQs and Nobel Prize winners, the extraordinary abilities of an individual named Juliet, the origins and meaning of genius in ancient Roman beliefs, and the impact of the scientific revolution on our understanding of genius.

Michael Taft, a meditation teacher, interviews David McRaney about how minds change. They discuss writing the book 'How Minds Change', visiting the Westboro Baptist Church, the rapid shift in public opinion on same-sex marriage, the power of storytelling in communication, and exploring the origin and evolution of genius.

Author Will Storr discusses the status game, our obsession with reputation, and the motivation to win or avoid losing this game through pride, shame, and ostracism. The podcast explores the role of humiliation, the human thirst for status, and how different cultures measure and achieve status using various symbols and rules. The speakers also express admiration and emphasize the importance of understanding and appreciation.

Sedona Chinn, researcher of competing scientific claims, discusses the irony of 'do your own research' advocates not actually conducting independent research. The origin of the phrase is traced to Bill Cooper and its association with online conspiracy theory communities. The evolution of 'do your own research' is explored, emphasizing autonomy and psychological factors. The importance of therapy and declining trust in institutions are also discussed. The phenomenon of shared conspiracy theories between far-right and far-left is examined.