Tetragrammaton with Rick Rubin

Mollie Engelhart is a chef and regenerative farmer who transitioned from running successful vegan restaurants to founding Sovereignty Ranch in Texas. She discusses the viral fallout from a controversial family Instagram post and the cancel culture surrounding personal choices. Mollie shares her journey into regenerative agriculture, integrating animal products into her diet, and the satisfaction of growing her own food. She delves into soil health, the philosophy behind her restaurant, and offers insights on supporting local farmers and food accessibility.

Tyler Cowen, a pioneering economist and professor at George Mason University, dives deep into the complex world of choral music and its cultural significance. He explores why this genre demands close listening and highlights Finland's unique choral tradition. The discussion ranges from the emotional impact of works by Rautavaara and Schoenberg to the evolution of choral music from Palestrina to contemporary composers like Caroline Shaw. Cowen also reflects on the dynamics of language in choral performance and the communal experience of singing.

Economist Tyler Cowen discusses the nuances of stablecoins and the impact of the European Central Bank's regulations. He contrasts Bitcoin with stablecoins while addressing concerns around Tether's transparency. Cowen examines the intertwining of AI and shadow banking, highlighting how tech firms finance massive projects. He critiques the traditional educational system, emphasizing the value of real-world learning, and reflects on the rising importance of oral culture amidst declining reading habits.

M.I.A., a British-Sri Lankan artist known for her genre-blending music and activism, dives deep into her creative journey. She shares how a Caribbean island inspired her iconic track 'Galang' and connects her art and documentaries to her songwriting. Discussing her political roots, she reflects on the impact of growing up amid conflict in Sri Lanka. M.I.A. also explores her ventures into fashion with tech-protective clothing, balancing style with activism, and navigating the complexities of an artist's voice in today’s world.

David Whyte, a celebrated Irish poet and philosopher, returns for an insightful conversation. He reflects on his poem 'Still Possible,' discussing self-admonition's power. Whyte explores the theme of belonging, emphasizing the importance of connections in our environments. He shares experiences with intimate friendships and how rituals can either nourish or numb life. Delving into poetic cadence and the essence of writing, Whyte unravels the profound relationship between words, the body, and everyday experiences, inviting listeners to find depth in the ordinary.

David Whyte, a celebrated Irish poet and philosopher, dives into the profound intersections of language and human experience. He explores how childhood sensory memories shape poetic expression, alongside the notion of timelessness versus linear time. Whyte shares his unique 'Start Close In' writing practice and reframes vulnerability as a vital source of connection. He reflects on the transformative power of writing through grief, while also discussing how words can create spaces of silence and meaning, revealing the essence of the human condition.

Tony Hawk, a legendary skateboarder known for landing the 900 and founding the Tony Hawk Foundation, shares his fascinating journey through skating culture. He reflects on the early days of skate parks in the 70s and the punk movement's influence on skateboarding. From his first big injury that shaped his technique to the evolution of skate styles inspired by surfing, Hawk discusses the industry's cycles and the creation of his iconic video game. He emphasizes the importance of dedication over talent and the impact of skateboarding on personal identity.

Dr. Andrew Huberman, a tenured neuroscientist at Stanford, returns to delve deeper into fascinating neuroscience topics. He discusses the therapeutic potential of MDMA for PTSD and the contrasting effects of ketamine and psilocybin. Huberman also shares daily tools for health, including Yoga Nidra and the impacts of caffeine and nicotine. He reflects on technology's role in advancing brain research and the transformative power of spiritual practices like prayer. Plus, insights into effective teaching and his experience writing a new book add depth to their conversation.

Dr. Andrew Huberman, a renowned neuroscientist and professor at Stanford, shares fascinating insights on how light and cortisol impact health and performance. He explains the importance of morning sunlight for energy and focus while discussing its effects on sleep. Huberman also delves into the biological significance of natural scents on memory and emotions. Reflecting on turning 50, he intertwines personal experiences of loss with thoughts on mental health and legacy, encouraging listeners to embrace the present and nurture meaningful connections.

Mark Ronson, a Grammy-winning record producer and DJ known for his work with Amy Winehouse, shares captivating insights into his musical journey. He discusses the vibrant 90s NYC DJ scene, reflecting on the blend of live instrumentation and samples in music production. Ronson also dives into the transformative power of nightlife and the nostalgia of DJing with vinyl records. He highlights his evolution in the industry and examines the emotional interplay between music and film scoring, revealing the depth of connection shared through sound.