unSILOed with Greg LaBlanc

Gregory Berns, a neuroscientist at Emory University and author, dives into the complexities of self-perception and social conformity. He explores the unique human storytelling instinct compared to animal communication and discusses his groundbreaking MRI research on dogs. The conversation touches on how our identities are shaped by sensory input and societal pressure, alongside the evolution of motivations from ancestral strategies to today's digital anxieties. Berns also shares insights from his farm life, highlighting the bonds formed with animals like cows.

Will Gompertz, director of Sir John Soane’s Museum and author, discusses the transformative power of art and creativity in education. He emphasizes that creativity is crucial for personal growth and happiness, advocating for a balanced curriculum. Will explores revolutionary figures like Marcel Duchamp and how they challenged artistic norms. The conversation highlights the importance of supportive environments in schools and workplaces to foster curiosity and innovation. Ultimately, they reflect on the integral role of creativity in our daily lives and mental well-being.

Juan M. Lavista Ferres, Corporate Vice President and Chief Data Scientist at Microsoft, introduces fascinating insights from his book, 'AI for Good.' He discusses the transformative potential of AI and satellite data to tackle social issues, emphasizing the importance of responsible data collection. Juan delves into real-world applications like helping the visually impaired with currency recognition and the ethical implications of open AI access. The conversation highlights Microsoft's shift towards a culture that balances profit with philanthropic initiatives, showcasing the human benefits of AI.

Harold James, a professor at Princeton University and author of 'Seven Crashes: The Economic Crises That Shaped Globalization,' dives deep into how historical economic crises have influenced global relationships. He explores the evolution of crises and their connection to wars, including lessons from World War I and the impact of the Bretton Woods Agreement. Through fascinating anecdotes, he uncovers the complexity of interconnected economies and the importance of learning from past economic upheavals to address contemporary challenges.

In this engaging discussion, Doriane Lambelet Coleman, a Duke Law professor and author focusing on women and sports, unpacks the complexities of sex and gender. She emphasizes a balanced approach to understanding biological differences and transgender rights. The talk dives into the historical evolution of legal rights, the impacts of significant court cases, and the unique challenges women face in sports amidst these debates. Coleman calls for empathy and clear definitions to navigate these contentious topics, bridging divides for better discourse.

Neil D. Lawrence, a machine learning professor at Cambridge and author of "The Atomic Human," dives into the fascinating intricacies of intelligence. He explores whether AI can ever replicate human intellectual traits. The conversation highlights pivotal historical advancements in technology, the nuances in defining intelligence, and the relationship between organizational culture and innovation. Lawrence also reflects on his experiences at Amazon, showcasing how intelligence—both human and artificial—evolves and transforms in our digital age.

Stefanos Geroulanos, a history professor at NYU and author of 'The Invention of Prehistory,' joins to discuss the complexities of defining human nature. He explores the historical narratives around race, species, and Western civilization, unpacking their ongoing impact today. The conversation delves into the debates on human progress and how archaeological discoveries reshape our understanding of identity. Geroulanos also critiques Eurocentric historical classifications and discusses the intersection of science, politics, and our evolving perceptions of humanity.

David P. Mindell, an evolutionary biologist and visiting scholar at UC Berkeley, discusses a transformative view of evolution in this engaging conversation. He challenges the traditional tree-like model of evolution, introducing the concept of horizontal evolution and its importance. Mindell highlights the roles of genetic transfer in evolution, the ethical stakes of gene editing, and the implications for fields like medicine and agriculture. He also reflects on the interplay between parasites and symbiotes, revealing the dynamic nature of relationships across species.

Philipp Carlsson-Szlezak, global chief economist at Boston Consulting Group and author of "Shocks, Crises, and False Alarms," discusses the critical need for business leaders to grasp macroeconomic principles in turbulent times. He highlights the misconceptions stemming from traditional economic models and underscores the importance of personal judgment. Key topics include lessons from past crises, the dual nature of dollar hegemony, and the complexities of inflation trends, all aimed at equipping executives to make informed decisions in an unpredictable landscape.

In this discussion, Matt Beane, an assistant professor at UCSB and author of The Skill Code, delves into the impact of technology on on-the-job learning. He highlights the need for practical experience, especially in high-stakes fields like surgery, and argues for the importance of embracing discomfort in the learning process. Beane also explores the roles of mentorship, workplace culture, and the dynamics between experts and novices, emphasizing that effective skill development requires challenge, complexity, and meaningful connections.