The Next Big Idea Daily
Next Big Idea Club
What if engaging with great ideas could become one of your daily habits? What if some of the best tips for living better and working smarter were served up with your morning coffee, a hit of motivation guaranteed to start your day right? That’s the idea behind The Next Big Idea Daily. We work with hundreds of non-fiction authors — experts in productivity, creativity, leadership, communication, and other fields. They distill their big ideas into bite-sized chunks, and we offer you one each morning.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Aug 31, 2023 • 9min
S30 E4: "The Heat Will Kill You First: Life and Death on a Scorched Planet" by Jeff Goodell
Exploring the deadly impact of extreme heat and climate change and the prediction of a 'heat Katrina' scenario. Encouraging listeners to take action in stabilizing the climate and mentioning a therapist's book on embracing challenges.
Aug 30, 2023 • 10min
S30 E3: "How to Think like a Philosopher: Twelve Key Principles for More Humane, Balanced, and Rational Thinking" by Julian Baggini
Julian Baggini, philosopher and author, discusses practical solutions for today's questions in a conversation about mental health, habits of great thinkers, improving rational thinking, grounding thinking in the world, embracing social thinking, and seeking different viewpoints.
Aug 29, 2023 • 11min
S30 E2: "Why We Need to Be Wild: One Woman's Quest for Ancient Human Answers to 21st Century Problems" by Jessica Carew Kraft
Jessica Carew Kraft, an urban wife and mom, quit her tech career to learn about "rewilding" and discovered a community rejecting modern comforts. They use ancient tools and skills for survival, like turning sticks into fire and bones into tools for wild food. They discuss the relevance of Stone Age wisdom, drawbacks of modern technology, and the benefits of reconnecting with nature.
Aug 28, 2023 • 10min
S30 E1: "Gonzo Capitalism: How to Make Money in An Economy That Hates You" by Chris Guillebeau
Chris Guillebeau, bestselling author, discusses the changing economic landscape and the need to adapt personal finance strategies. He explores the concept of peak marketplace and shares stories of individuals who have found unique ways to monetize their skills and talents in the growing ecosystem of decentralized virtual markets.
7 snips
Aug 25, 2023 • 14min
S29 E5: "A Minute to Think: Reclaim Creativity, Conquer Busyness, and Do Your Best Work" by Juliet Funt
Juliet Funt shares strategies for reclaiming creativity and focus amidst chaos. Discover the benefits of incorporating white space and using the wedge tool. Learn how simplification questions can eliminate low value work. Embrace free time and find joy in the present moment.
Aug 24, 2023 • 12min
S29 E4: "Thoreau's Axe: Distraction and Discipline in American Culture" (Caleb Smith)
Caleb Smith, a 19th-century naturalist, discusses the history of distraction and its relationship with attention. He explores the impact of new technologies, industrialization, and modern economic conditions on our focus. Smith highlights the need for personal discipline, control over time, and protection from manipulation to combat distraction in American culture.
Aug 23, 2023 • 11min
S29 E3: "Brainhacker: Master Memory, Focus, Emotions, and More to Unleash the Genius Within" by Dave Farrow
Two-time Guinness World Record memory champ Dave Farrow shares practical tips on rewiring the brain. Topics include the impact of body movements, posture, and visualizations on mood, confidence, memory, and perception. Also discussed are the power of visualization in blocking out pain, improving skills, managing emotions, sharpening focus, and avoiding distractions.
Aug 22, 2023 • 10min
S29 E2: "Happier Hour: How to Beat Distraction, Expand Your Time, and Focus on What Matters Most" by Cassie Holmes
This podcast discusses the concept of time poverty and its negative effects on health and happiness. It offers suggestions for combating time poverty and emphasizes the importance of being present and avoiding distraction. It also highlights the importance of cherishing simple moments and thinking about the end of life to clarify values and purpose.
5 snips
Aug 21, 2023 • 12min
S29 E1: “Stolen Focus: Why You Can't Pay Attention—and How to Think Deeply Again” by Johann Hari
Johann Hari, author of three New York Times bestsellers, discusses the attention crisis and how to regain focus. Topics include the impact of modern technology, habits, multitasking, interruptions, diet, and collective action to address the crisis.
Aug 18, 2023 • 16min
Encore: Plan on Fridays (Laura Vanderkam)
Laura Vanderkam, productivity expert, shares tips on planning and prioritizing the week, balancing work and personal life, and reducing decision fatigue. Discover the benefits of Friday afternoon planning for a better work-life balance and increased productivity.
