Tetragrammaton with Rick Rubin

Killer Mike, an Atlanta-born rapper and actor known for his work in Run the Jewels, discusses the deep connections of family legacy and resilience. He shares poignant stories about losing his grandmother, blending themes of grief and acceptance. Killer Mike also explores his spiritual journey, intertwining faith with hip-hop culture. The conversation highlights the evolution of trap music in Atlanta while emphasizing community empowerment and the significance of cultural heritage. He ultimately champions the role of music as a transformative force amidst societal challenges.

Rick Rubin chats with the legendary Alfred Hitchcock, the 'Master of Suspense,' diving deep into the psychological elements of fear in cinema. They discuss the fine balance between real crime and storytelling, highlighting the impact of narratives on identity. Hitchcock shares whimsical tales from extravagant dinner parties and delves into the playful nature of Cockney rhyming slang. The conversation shifts to the complexities of filmmaking, addressing human relationships, and concludes with reflections on health, hydration, and a humorous take on acting.

Joaquin Phoenix, an Academy Award-winning actor known for his intense roles, shares fascinating insights on his journey in film. He discusses the delicate balance between creativity and control, reflecting on how childhood experiences shaped his artistry. Phoenix also opens up about the psychological complexities of acting, the significance of collaboration with directors, and his pursuit of authenticity. He touches on the vulnerabilities of fame, humorous anecdotes from his career, and the importance of artistic integrity, especially during his unforgettable role in 'Joker'.

Tyler Cowen has long nurtured an obsession with music. It’s one of the few addictions Tyler believes is actually conducive to a fulfilling intellectual life.In this bonus episode, a year after Tyler walked us through the world of the Avant-Garde, and his favorite pop music, Tyler guides us through some of the major pillars of Russian classical music—from Rimsky-Korsakov to Stravinsky.------Thank you to the sponsors that fuel our podcast and our team:Vivo Barefoothttp://vivobarefoot.com/tetraUse code 'TETRA'------LMNT Electrolyteshttps://drinklmnt.com/tetraUse code 'TETRA'------Squarespacehttps://squarespace.com/tetraUse code 'TETRA'------House of Macadamiashttps://www.houseofmacadamias.com/tetraUse code 'TETRA'------Sign up to receive Tetragrammaton Transmissionshttps://www.tetragrammaton.com/join-newsletter

Tyler Cowen, a world-renowned economist and co-author of the influential blog Marginal Revolution, dives deep into fascinating topics. He discusses the evolution of trust in media and political figures shaped by the internet. Hear about the contrasting cultures of Lagos and South Yemen, alongside insights into Japan's economic stagnation versus Taiwan's innovation. Cowen details colonialism's dual legacy, explores the impact of memes on political discourse, and reflects on how AI is transforming online learning and the game of chess.

Jason Louv, a bestselling author and founder of Ultraculture, shares his insights on the intersection of magic, meditation, and technology. He discusses the evolution of chaos magic, its punk roots, and how intuition shapes personal spiritual journeys. Louv critiques modern misconceptions of substance use in spirituality, promoting creativity instead. He also explores the historical ties between magic and science, emphasizing the importance of imagination in rituals. Finally, he highlights the transformative power of magic in fostering resilience and individual empowerment.

Shane Smith, journalist and founder of VICE Media, shares his fascinating journey of transforming a Montreal magazine into a global powerhouse. He dives into the cultural evolution of his company, detailing the challenges of navigating digital media landscapes and combating misinformation. With captivating stories from conflict zones, like a surreal experience in North Korea, Shane reflects on the absurdities of censorship and the contrasts of global politics. His insights into maintaining creativity amid corporate pressures offer a candid look into the media industry today.

Wes Lang, a contemporary artist from Los Angeles, masterfully blends pop culture with themes of mortality and the American Dream. He shares stories from his childhood filled with music and personal growth, reflecting on how these experiences shaped his artistic identity. Lang discusses his challenges and triumphs within the art world, including financing a residency through his paintings. He emphasizes the transformative power of art, drawing inspiration from icons like Jean-Michel Basquiat, and the significance of introspection in his creative journey.

Jack Mallers, an entrepreneur and founder of Strike, dives into the world of Bitcoin and its transformative power. He shares insights on how Bitcoin can revolutionize financial transactions, especially in countries like El Salvador, while emphasizing its potential to empower individuals and bridge wealth gaps. The discussion covers the historical shift from gold to fiat and critiques the current economic system. Mallers also addresses Bitcoin's unique properties and its role in navigating financial insecurity, making a strong case for a decentralized future.

Joe Sabia is a filmmaker and digital creator known for Vogue’s 73 Questions and his documentary on Roger Federer. He shares insights on the emotional journey behind Federer’s retirement and the challenges of crafting an authentic documentary. Joe reflects on his creative evolution, from early childhood video projects to directing feature films, and discusses the significance of online presence. He also dives into the artistic expression in classical music and the impact of remix culture, offering a fresh take on how digital age influences creativity.