The Psychology Podcast

Tim Urban, the witty writer and illustrator behind the popular blog Wait But Why, shares insights on critical thinking and identity. He warns against dogmatic ideologies that lead to echo chambers, advocating for flexible mindsets in intellectual pursuits. Urban humorously compares dating to Grand Theft Auto, emphasizing authentic connections over fear of rejection. He explores philosophical questions surrounding life, death, and cryonics, while celebrating the importance of imagination, creative expression, and fostering open dialogues about societal issues.

In this engaging discussion, Jane McGonigal, the co-founder and CEO of DeepMind and a renowned game designer, explores how gaming can tackle real-world issues like depression and climate change. She argues that games can prepare us for the future by nurturing creativity and fostering psychological safety. Jane dives into the power of imagination in coping with crises, the importance of community resilience, and the ethical concerns surrounding facial recognition technology. Her insights promise to inspire hope and proactive thinking for a better tomorrow.

Join Antonio Damasio, an esteemed neuroscientist from USC, as he unravels the complexities of consciousness and its ties to emotions. He clarifies the distinction between mind, intelligence, and consciousness, arguing that consciousness emerges from bodily sensations and emotions. Damasio delves into panpsychism, the evolution of feelings, and the challenges AI faces in replicating true consciousness, emphasizing that feeling is foundational to sentience. This thought-provoking discussion challenges conventional beliefs about our minds and the essence of being.

Charles Koch, the influential Chairman and CEO of Koch Industries, discusses his transformative business philosophy and philanthropic endeavors. He emphasizes a bottom-up approach to social change, arguing that recognizing individual strengths leads to greater societal impact. The conversation dives into the significance of multiple intelligences, the evolution of organizational culture toward collaboration, and the importance of aligning personal aspirations with meaningful work. Additionally, Koch shares insights on fostering community support and integrating virtue into societal incentives.

In this discussion, Rhonda Magee, a Professor of Law and mindfulness expert, shares her journey of integrating mindfulness into racial justice work. She emphasizes the healing power of awareness and compassion in bridging racial divides and fostering understanding. Rhonda dives into personal and systemic racism, her transformative educational experiences during desegregation, and the vital role of community in confronting injustice. The conversation highlights the importance of listening, dialogue, and collective healing as pathways toward liberation and justice.

Daniel Schmachtenberger, co-founder and CEO of DeepMind, dives into the profound influence of exponential technology on society. He discusses how organizations often exploit these advancements for profit, leading to polarization and eroding trust in institutions. The conversation emphasizes the need for radical cultural enlightenment to address modern challenges. Schmachtenberger also explores the balance between personal growth and societal dynamics, advocating for innovative governance and collaborative solutions to enhance collective intelligence and resilience.

Join Todd Kashdan, a top expert on well-being and author of "The Art of Insubordination," as he dives into the power of principled dissent. He explores how breaking norms can spark positive change and shares insights on overcoming conformity. Todd discusses the essential elements of insubordination and the role of ethical rebels in creating social impact. He encourages embracing unconventional thinking and self-care, even amid potential social pushback. Plus, he highlights the surprising wisdom gained from embracing the unconventional.

Dr. Eric Topol, a leading cardiologist and founder of the Scripps Research Translational Institute, dives into the pandemic's landscape, expertly separating facts from myths. He discusses the ongoing controversy around ivermectin and vaccine safety, including the potential risk of myocarditis. Topol emphasizes the importance of understanding emergency use authorization for vaccines and addresses vaccine hesitancy, advocating for clear communication to counter misinformation. Ultimately, he maintains an optimistic outlook for navigating future health challenges.

Arthur Brooks, a Harvard professor and author, explores the quest for meaning in the latter half of life. He argues that our obsession with success often leads to unfulfilled lives and emphasizes the need to redefine what fulfillment looks like. Discussion topics include the transformative power of love, the myth of constant achievement, and the importance of relationships and community. He provides insights into navigating aging and finding deeper happiness through meaningful connections and personal evolution.

Join Andrew Yang, entrepreneur and founder of the Forward Party, as he dives into the future of American democracy. He shares insights from his political campaigns, revealing how our two-party system fuels polarization and dysfunction. Explore the psychological toll of campaigning and the struggle for authenticity amid division. Yang emphasizes the importance of shifting towards a human-centered economy, addressing tribalism, and fostering kindness in political dialogue. His vision advocates for community-building and reforming institutions for a brighter future.