Bounce! Conversations with Larry Weeks

Bounce is a podcast about the challenges of being human (and running things). Host Larry Weeks interviews thought leaders across psychology, business, science, and culture to explore resilience, emotions, mental health, and practical ways to stay grounded through change while building purpose and real happiness.

Beliefs Behind Your Stress: Dr. Walter Matweychuk on REBT and the 'Musts' That Wreck Your Mood 02/02/2026

Beliefs Behind Your Stress: Dr. Walter Matweychuk on REBT and the 'Musts' That Wreck Your Mood My guest on this podcast asserts that a huge chunk of our psychological stress isn’t caused by what’s happening but by the demands one quietly places on reality. In this episode, Dr. Walter Matweychuk teaches me about Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy (REBT), which focuses on identifying and disputing irrational, self-defeating beliefs to reduce emotional distress and change negative behaviors. Walter makes the case that REBT is not just a therapeutic modality but a philosophy for living based on emotional responsibility, resilience, and a way to stop rating yourself as “good” or “bad.” Walter is a psychologist with the University of Pennsylvania Health System and an adjunct professor at NYU who specializes in REBT. Formally trained by pioneers Dr. Albert Ellis and Dr. Aaron Beck, he integrates their foundational insights into a private practice serving clients worldwide. He is the author/co-author of multiple books and writes the Intermittent Reinforcement newsletter. Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Matweychuk is widely recognized for hosting the weekly REBT Conversation Hour, a long-running public demonstration of practical cognitive-behavioral strategies available at REBTDoctor.com. In this conversation: What Walter learned training with CBT legends Albert Ellis and Aaron Beck Shame vs. healthy concern, and Walter’s “shame-attack” experiments The two big engines of disturbance: “ego disturbance” vs. “discomfort disturbance" The way dogmatic “musts” turn a bad moment into an emotional spiral “Philosophical acceptance”: how to stop personal scorekeeping How to catch the belief that’s driving a feeling in real time The little “8 ideas” card Walter sends people Long-term hedonism: how REBT thinks about pleasure, meaning, and tradeoffs Secondary disturbance: the second layer of suffering that keeps people stuck Emotional responsibility and why it’s closer to freedom than “positive thinking” If stress is often a “demand in disguise,” this episode might help you spot the demand and loosen its grip. Enjoy! Show notes and more at larryweeks.com /episode/index/show/bouncewlarryweeks/id/39969095

Stopping the Clock: Steve Taylor on the Psychology and Physics of Time Expansion 01/07/2026

Stopping the Clock: Steve Taylor on the Psychology and Physics of Time Expansion Society views time as a fixed commodity, yet modern theoretical physics and cognitive neuroscience suggest otherwise. If the linear flow of time is truly an illusion, then time isn’t just a resource to be managed; it’s a perception to be mastered. My guest on the podcast today, Prof. Steve Taylor, argues that time isn’t experienced evenly. He suggests that where you place your attention and how you live day-to-day can change the way time unfolds, stretching or compressing your sense of it. Steve is a researcher in psychology and a senior lecturer at Leeds Beckett University. He has served as the chair of the Transpersonal Psychology section of the British Psychological Society. He writes the popular blog Out of the Darkness for Psychology Today and has contributed to Scientific American, The Conversation, and The Psychologist. In his work on "Time Expansion Experiences," Steve explores why we experience time differently in different states of mind. We discuss everything from slow-motion accident stories (and why calm can show up in chaos) to meditation, flow states, and the mind-bending “eternal now” where mysticism and physics converge. Highlights from the episode: Accidents and “slow-motion” perception: Why the mind slows down in crisis. The age gap: Why children experience long summers while adults feel seasons fly by. Retrospective time theory: How we judge duration after the fact. Automatization: How your brain edits reality to remain efficient. Digital distortion: Social media's impact on your experience of time. The power of novelty: How small changes can make life feel longer. The "Block Universe" theory: Exploring Einstein and Minkowski’s spacetime. NDE life reviews: Examining the spatial sequence of memory. Time cessation phenomena: What happens when time stops altogether. The discussion moves from metaphysics to real-world advice on subjectively "lengthening" your life. Enjoy! Show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/bouncewlarryweeks/id/39647820

When Goals Fail: Anne-Laure Le Cunff on How Small Experiments Change Everything 10/08/2025

When Goals Fail: Anne-Laure Le Cunff on How Small Experiments Change Everything We’ve been taught that success comes from setting goals, defining purpose, and executing a plan. But what if those very habits—the linear drive for certainty—are what keep us stuck? Dr. Anne-Laure Le Cunff, neuroscientist, founder of Ness Labs, and world-leading expert on mindful productivity, has an alternative: treat your life like a series of tiny experiments. In her new book Tiny Experiments, she explores how curiosity, liminal spaces, and small-scale testing can transform how we handle uncertainty and growth. Anne-Laure argues that traditional goal-setting and the “tyranny of purpose” trap us in rigid definitions of success and failure. Instead, she offers a science-backed framework for progress through curiosity-driven experimentation, an approach that replaces pressure with play and perfectionism with learning. We discuss how to navigate the in-between spaces of life, the thresholds between who we were and who we’re becoming, and why those moments of uncertainty hold the most potential for transformation. Listen as we dive into how to build an experimental mindset that turns confusion into data and uncertainty into discovery. Highlights What if the most uncertain moments are also the most meaningful? Invisible “scripts” quietly running your decisions, and how to rewrite them Why rushing to “figure it out” might be costing you your next breakthrough How to turn fear of the unknown into curiosity about what’s possible The surprising neuroscience behind why smaller risks create bigger change A four-step framework that turns uncertainty into momentum Why chasing legacy might be keeping you from real impact right now How to slow time without quitting your schedule The overlooked social hack that makes personal growth exponential What happens when you start studying your own life like a scientist If you’re in between, unsure, or just restless, this conversation is for you. Anne-Laure shows that uncertainty isn’t a problem to solve; it’s the raw material of discovery. /episode/index/show/bouncewlarryweeks/id/38517220

Fear, Anger, and the Plans They Hide: Angus Fletcher on the Science of Primal Intelligence 09/08/2025

Fear, Anger, and the Plans They Hide: Angus Fletcher on the Science of Primal Intelligence In a world increasingly dominated by AI and computational thinking, we've been taught that logic is the ultimate form of intelligence. But what if an over-reliance on pure reason is making us more fragile and less equipped to navigate uncertainty? Angus Fletcher is a professor at Ohio State's Project Narrative and the author of the best-selling book, Primal Intelligence. Angus's has had an extraordinary career path to say the least, from building mutant neurons in neuroscience labs to studying Shakespeare at Yale, and being recruited by US Army Special Operations to train their elite operators. Angus argues that the human brain is less a computational machine, and more a dynamic, narrative-based engine built for action and foresight. This "biological intelligence," often overlooked and untrained, is what allows us to operate with limited information, adapt in volatile environments, and innovate in ways no machine can. For his groundbreaking work on this very topic, Angus was awarded the Commendation Medal by the US Army in 2023. Listen as we dive into the science of your innate intelligence and how narrative thinking works, and how understanding what feelings are telling you can transform how you deal with uncertainty. Some highlights from the episode: Angus's journey from neuroscience to Shakespeare to Army Special Operations Why hard skill, soft skill distinction misses the point entirely How biological intelligence differs from computational intelligence The Army's discovery about decision-making in volatile environments A novel take on the purpose of emotions What fear and anger signals (and what to do about it) Special operators' techniques for turning anger on and off Why gratitude works best when applied to specific negative experiences The brain as a Swiss Army knife rather than calculator How to use emotions like a dashboard for better decision-making How an integrated past and branching future creates anti-fragility If you're curious about the kinds of intelligence that AI can't replicate, and how to better utilize yours, this conversation provides the science and practical tools to get started. For show notes and more, visit /episode/index/show/bouncewlarryweeks/id/38136575

When You’re in a Hole: Tony Stubblebine on the Strategy, Psychology, and Lessons of a Business Turnaround 08/08/2025

When You’re in a Hole: Tony Stubblebine on the Strategy, Psychology, and Lessons of a Business Turnaround In this episode, I’m digging into the messy reality of business turnarounds, the kind where survival isn’t guaranteed and leadership is more about doing the hard, boring things than dazzling with big ideas. My guest is Tony Stubblebine, CEO of Medium, whose recent post “Fell Into a Hole and Got Out” made the rounds for being one of the most honest and actionable stories about company rescue I’ve ever read. Tony’s background runs deep: founder of Coach.me, architect of the Better Humans publication. This is what it’s really like to take over a company bleeding millions, shrinking fast, and staring down insolvency. But it’s also a story about staying steady, balancing the financial reality with the need to restore quality, purpose, and confidence to a battered team. There’s no sugar-coating here, just real talk about layoffs, difficult investor negotiations, and why the business model has to come before your “next big thing.” Tony walks us through the psychological and strategic ladder he and his team built, one rung at a time, to claw Medium back from the brink. He shares candid lessons for founders, hard truths about startup mythologies, and the personal practices that kept him sane when the stakes were highest. Here’s what we cover: The “hole” no one talks about: what it’s really like to inherit a company in crisis Brutal financial realities, cutting costs, and restoring a culture’s sense of purpose Why the business model now comes before the product The Goldilocks problem of innovation and finding the “just right” middle ground How to negotiate with investors when a prior deal is dead and nobody wants to say it out loud Lessons on hiring, layoffs, and having the hard conversations with a team that’s seen too many pivots The psychological “ladder” out, how to focus everyone on small wins The power of slow, steady self-improvement (meditation, journaling, therapy) for surviving big challenges Why Tony thinks each of us, just by living our lives, accumulate wisdom that can help others This is more than a highlight reel, it's a toolkit for anyone who’s had to make the tough calls or wondered if they could. Enjoy the show. /episode/index/show/bouncewlarryweeks/id/37734805

Medicine for the Mind: Donald Robertson on Ancient Therapies for Modern Stressors 05/20/2025

Why Joy Fades: Tali Sharot on The Power of Noticing What’s Always There 04/15/2025

Why Joy Fades: Tali Sharot on The Power of Noticing What’s Always There People think happiness comes from getting everything you want. But the science shows, it’s the absence, the novelty, and the change that bring joy back - Tali Sharot Ever wonder why lasting happiness can feel so elusive? This episode delves into the neuroscience of habituation, and why our brains, despite achieving desires, tend to filter out positive experiences. We'll explore this phenomenon and uncover practical strategies to consciously re-engage with what’s already good in your life. My guest is Dr. Tali Sharot, a cognitive neuroscientist and professor at University College London, where she directs the Affective Brain Lab. Tali’s research blends neuroscience, psychology, and behavioral economics to study how emotion and motivation shape decision-making, memory, and belief. Tali’s work has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The BBC, and her TED Talks have been viewed over 15 million times. We talk about her research behind why we adapt so quickly to both the good and the bad—and how this helps us survive, but can also rob us of happiness, creativity, and even the desire to change. This is the crux of her book, Look Again: The Power of Noticing What Was Always There, co-authored with Cass Sunstein. If you’ve ever wondered why joy fades faster than it should—or why we stop seeing the beauty around us—this conversation offers a fresh perspective on how to disrupt that pattern. Some highlights from the pod: Tali’s research background and the Affective Brain Lab Research insights into human–AI bias feedback loops Habituation: How our brains are built to ignore what doesn’t change Why the mechanism that makes us resilient also makes us take good things for granted The problem of perfection; and getting everything you want Dis-habituation —and how to apply it to relationships and daily life Happiness and the evolutionary role of novelty How to use imagination and attention to rekindle joy and gratitude Why people with depression often struggle to recover—and the role of rumination How learning and effort unlock happiness Refreshing the familiar: Savoring, small changes, and role-play This is one of those episodes that can help you feel more alive—not by adding more to your life, but by changing how you see what’s already there. Enjoy! /episode/index/show/bouncewlarryweeks/id/36153070

Reclaiming Experience: Christine Rosen on Being Human in a Disembodied World 03/04/2025

Reclaiming Experience: Christine Rosen on Being Human in a Disembodied World Does the richness of your world expand or shrink in direct proportion to how much of your life is digitally mediated? My guest argues that by defaulting to digital mediation—where technology filters and facilitates our interactions—we are trading away the richness of real, embodied experience. And in doing so, we risk losing—without even noticing—the very moments that make us happy and resilient. Are we shrinking our capacity for a full, messy, exhilarating experience of being human? Christine Rosen is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, where she explores American history, society, culture, and the impact of technology on human behavior. She is a columnist for Commentary magazine, a fellow at the University of Virginia’s Institute for Advanced Studies in Culture, and a senior editor at The New Atlantis. Previously a distinguished visiting scholar at the Library of Congress, Christine has authored several books, including The Extinction of Experience, Esquire’s Best Book of 2024, which serves as the foundation for our discussion. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, Washington Post, and many other major outlets. She holds a PhD in history from Emory University, a third-degree black belt in Aikido, and teaches martial arts where she lives in Washington, D.C. On the show, we discuss Christine’s book The Extinction of Experience and a variety of topics, including: Our shared interest in Aikido and martial arts The thesis of her book How technology mediates experiences Impacts on basic social interactions The concept of “ambiguous loss” Serendipity and chance encounters How human virtue is created Public spaces and the decline of social awareness Digital voyeurism The physical resonance of IRL events Self-isolation and the “loneliness epidemic” Enjoy! For show notes and more, visit /episode/index/show/bouncewlarryweeks/id/35529090

Ep. 83: Why Depression Exists: Jonathan Rottenberg on the Evolutionary Origins of Mood 12/16/2024

Ep. 83: Why Depression Exists: Jonathan Rottenberg on the Evolutionary Origins of Mood In this episode, we explore the human mood system and the origin of depression. My guest is Dr. Jonathan Rottenberg, Professor of Psychology and Director of the Better Outcomes Laboratory at Cornell University. His work examines long-term functioning and well-being after depression and related conditions, with a particular focus on explaining why some people achieve good outcomes. He received his BA from Harvard University, an MA in History from Johns Hopkins University, and his PhD in Psychology from Stanford University. Dr. Rottenberg's research has been covered in popular outlets such as the New York Times, The Washington Post, and the Wall Street Journal. He has authored two books: The Depths: The Evolutionary Origins of the Depression Epidemic (Basic Books) and Depression: What Everyone Needs to Know (Oxford). His most recent digital outreach project is Ever After, a video series about life after depression. Here are some highlights from our conversation: Jonathan's own experience with depression and how it shaped his research and mission The evolutionary origins of the mood Mood as a system The parallels between human and animal depression Depression's survival strategy and modern stressors Distinctions between ordinary sadness and depression Why depression feels permanent—and why it isn't Rumination and how it wires the brain for recurring episodes The adaptability and resilience of the mood system How mindfulness can disrupt depressive thought loops Why some achieve 'better outcomes' after struggling with their mental health than others I think this episode will help many of you see depression and overall negative moods as part of a broader human experience rather than a personal failing. It's a must-listen for anyone interested in a deeper understanding of human emotion and the complex relationship between body, mood, and environment. Enjoy! /episode/index/show/bouncewlarryweeks/id/34476615

Ep. 82: The Divided Brain: Iain McGilchrist On How We See The World 11/29/2024

Ep. 81: The Power of Curiosity: A.J. Jacobs on Living the Constitution and Bridging Differences 09/13/2024

Ep. 81: The Power of Curiosity: A.J. Jacobs on Living the Constitution and Bridging Differences A.J. Jacobs is a renowned writer and participatory journalist, best known for his immersive, experiment-driven projects that push the boundaries of immersive learning. From living according to the Ten Commandments to exploring radical honesty, A.J. dives headfirst into his experiments, bringing humor and insight into everything he does. His latest endeavor? An exploration of the U.S. Constitution, attempting to live by its original meaning. A.J. is no stranger to this podcast—this is his second appearance, and if you missed our previous conversation, I highly recommend checking out Life As Experiment: A.J. Jacobs – Lessons From Living On The Edge. It's one of my favorites, offering a deeper dive into A.J.’s life and wild approach to self-experimentation. In his latest book, The Year of Living Constitutionally: One Man's Humble Quest to Follow the Constitution's Original Meaning, A.J. documents his year-long quest to embody the Constitution in its original context. From carrying a musket in New York City to using a quill pen, he immerses himself in the mindset of the Founding Fathers, bringing history to life in ways you’d never expect. In this episode, A.J. and I talk about his experiences, the surprises he encountered, and why curiosity is more vital than ever. Whether you're fired up about politics or just curious about how the past continues to shape our present, you’ll love this conversation. Our conversation includes: The role of curiosity in A.J.'s life and work. A.J.’s immersive journalism. Past experiments like practicing radical honesty. Acting "as if" Curiosity as key to personal and professional growth. A.J.'s latest book and his experiences living 18th-century standards. The balance between rights and responsibilities as understood by the Founding Fathers. The original intent of free speech, its historical limits on sedition, and its modern implications in the age of social media. How the office of the U.S. president has evolved beyond what the Founding Fathers envisioned. Strategies for engaging in productive conversations with opposing views. Epistemic humility—recognizing that no one is always right. The future of society and existential risks, with insights from A.J.'s participation in the Longview Conference. I hope this episode inspires you to be more open and curious, and question your assumptions. Life is one big experiment—full of choices, tests, and lessons that help us grow and adapt. Keep exploring! Enjoy! For show notes and more, visit /episode/index/show/bouncewlarryweeks/id/33045822

Ep.80: Your Crypto or Your Life. Nat Eliason: Financial Frenzies and Mindful Living 07/01/2024

Ep.79: Mind and Matter: Christof Koch on What Consciousness Is and How to Expand It 05/29/2024

Ep.79: Mind and Matter: Christof Koch on What Consciousness Is and How to Expand It Christof Koch is a pioneering computational neuroscientist and neurophysiologist best known for his groundbreaking work on the neural basis of consciousness. He collaborated with Francis Crick, the co-discoverer of the structure of DNA, to establish a neurobiological framework for understanding consciousness. Christof served as the President and Chief Scientist of the Allen Institute for Brain Science in Seattle and continues his work there as a Meritorious Investigator. He is also the Chief Scientist of the Tiny Blue Dot Foundation in Santa Monica, CA, which funds research aimed at alleviating suffering, anxiety, and other forms of distress in people worldwide. Christof has authored over five books on consciousness, with his latest being "Then I Am Myself the World: What Consciousness Is and How to Expand It." This book delves into the subject of consciousness through the lenses of physics, psychology, neuroscience, philosophy, and computer science, as well as Christof’s personal experiences exploring his consciousness. In this episode, Christof dives deep into what might explain the origin of consciousness and existing contradictions. We explore how our minds construct reality, the wonder of experience, and the profound implications of Integrated Information Theory. Christof also reflects on the importance of mindfulness, the power of belief, and the ongoing debate on free will. Our conversation includes: The origin of consciousness and the “Hard Problem Integrated Information Theory (IIT) How far down the phylogenetic tree consciousness might go The mind-body problem: physical structures and subjective experiences Panpsychism and how consciousness might be a fundamental aspect of matter. Qualities of experience and the perception box Mind-melding and the “uber” consciousness Why AI or any compute-based system may never be sentient The boundaries of consciousness and the dissolution of self The notion of "mind at large" Christoph’s experiences with psychedelics Free will My hope is that this episode gives you a sense of awe about your mind so that you look at life and your experiences with a bit more wonder. Enjoy! For show notes and more, visit /episode/index/show/bouncewlarryweeks/id/31517947

Ep. 78: Beyond the Apple Legend: Guy Kawasaki on Remarkable Journeys with Remarkable People 04/11/2024

Ep. 78: Beyond the Apple Legend: Guy Kawasaki on Remarkable Journeys with Remarkable People Guy Kawasaki is a pioneering figure in Silicon Valley, celebrated marketing icon, and successful serial entrepreneur. Guy was one of the original Apple employees responsible for launching their Macintosh computer line in 1984 - and then revitalizing Apple again in the 90s when it faced market share challenges from Microsoft and IBM. His role at Apple popularized the term evangelism in marketing and technology. He is an executive fellow of the Haas School of Business (UC Berkeley), and host of the popular Remarkable People podcast. Guy has written over 16 best-selling books, including Wise Guy, The Art of the Start 2.0, The Art of Social Media, Enchantment, and his latest - Think Remarkable: 9 Paths to Transform Your Life and Make a Difference is part of our conversation. Guy was an absolute delight and game for a wide-ranging chat. Our conversation points include: Guy’s pathfinder career, from an unwilling law student to reluctant med student to passionate business leader. On family expectations and perspectives on “quitting.” His stint in the jewelry business. On selling as a fundamental life skill beyond just business. Guy reflects on his time at Apple. Working under Steve Jobs. The transformation of tech sales. Apple’s struggles and resurgence in the 90s Guy's innovation of the email newsletter (via listserver) during his second stint at Apple Insights into the power of maintaining a positive narrative during Apple's turnaround On Artificial Intelligence. His views on social media and what he uses now platforms. Writing and Podcasting: Guy shares insights into his writing process. The resilience of remarkable individuals inspired by stories from his book and podcast. Guy Kawasaki's story is one of passion pursuit, intellectual curiosity, and a deep-seated desire to make a meaningful impact. His work continues to inspire a new generation of thinkers, innovators, and creators. Enjoy! For show notes and more, visit /episode/index/show/bouncewlarryweeks/id/30788603

Ep. 77: Hit or Miss? Merrick Furst on Business Innovation, Customer Illusion, and the Challenge of Authentic Demand 04/04/2024

Ep. 77: Hit or Miss? Merrick Furst on Business Innovation, Customer Illusion, and the Challenge of Authentic Demand Outside of the purely physical and physiological, nothing is more challenging than the world of entrepreneurship and business, especially when facing customer indifference and figuring out market demand—the delicate balance between innovation and market reality. How do you do that? Professor Merrick L. Furst runs commercialization and new venture creation and directs undergraduate programs and faculty development in the College of Computing at Georgia Tech. Before GT, he was a professor at UC Berkeley, president of the International Computer Science Institute at Berkeley, and CEO of Essential Surfing Gear, Inc., which was sold in 2000, and anti-botnet startup Damballa. Earlier, he was a professor and associate dean at the School of Computer Science at Carnegie Mellon. Mark is also known for seminal research in algorithms, complexity theory, and AI. He co-invented probabilistic circuit analysis and planning graphs, which are considered among the most influential breakthroughs in the field of AI planning. Merrick is also the author of The Heart of Innovation: A Field Guide for Navigating to Authentic Demand, which is the touchstone for this podcast. On the show, we discuss the challenges every business faces in creating products that truly meet customer needs. A brief chat about AI. Why and how products fail. Real reasons vs. stated reasons people buy. On the "curse of knowledge" Validation vs innovation. Authentic demand: sussing alternatives to not purchasing or using a product/service "Non-indifference" as an indicator of authentic demand. Observing vs listening and the problem with surveys. How to question assumptions. Product development and market match. The need for humility and open-mindedness. As we explore these diverse topics, Merricks’ unique approach offers invaluable lessons for entrepreneurs, technologists, and anyone intrigued by the intersection of business, technology, and human behavior. Enjoy! For show notes and more, visit /episode/index/show/bouncewlarryweeks/id/30688428

Ep. 76: An Unconventional Path: Derek Sivers on Useful Beliefs, Pragmatic Positivity and Embracing Randomness 02/12/2024

Ep.75: Reflective Happiness: David Myers on Self Perception, Fear, Money and Micro-Friendships 01/31/2024

Ep.75: Reflective Happiness: David Myers on Self Perception, Fear, Money and Micro-Friendships "To know thyself is the beginning of wisdom." - Socrates This podcast is about understanding ourselves a bit better. We'll be exploring insights into what makes us happy as it relates to self-perception, and the various intricate connections between our minds, bodies, and social interactions. My guest on the show is social psychologist David Myers, known for his extensive work in communicating psychological science to both students and the general public. His academic contributions, supported by National Science Foundation have been published in prestigious journals like Science and American Psychologist. David has made psychological research accessible through articles in magazines such as Scientific American and through seventeen books, including both general interest and textbooks. David is best known for his textbook on psychology which is one of the most widely used psychology textbooks in the world. He is also the author of several popular books, including one of the first on happiness called The Pursuit of Happiness: Discovering the Pathway to Fulfillment, Well-Being, and Enduring Personal Joy published in 1993 David’s newest book, "How Do We Know Ourselves?: Curiosities and Marvels of the Human Mind" is the topic of this show. Our conversation covers a wide array of psychology topics including: A bit about David’s background. We revisit happiness and the latest findings in that field. The relationship between happiness and income. Goal setting and the material trap The benefits of religion and religious engagement paradox. Self-Perception Theory. Body-mind effects. Micro-Friendships: The significant mood boost from brief, positive interactions with strangers. We touch on fear Misplaced Fears: How we skew risk perceptions. The power of reframing and its effectiveness in Brief Interventions. Enjoy For show notes and more visit /episode/index/show/bouncewlarryweeks/id/29726788

Ep. 74: Trance as a Tool: Dr. David Spiegel on the History and Evidence-Based Benefits of Hypnosis 12/16/2023

Ep. 73: A Post Career World: Bruce Feiler On The Reinvention of Work 10/30/2023

Ep. 72: The Irrational: Dan Ariely On The Mechanics of Misbelief 10/13/2023

Ep. 71: Clearing The Fog: Shane Parrish On Clarity In Decision-Making and Transforming Knowledge Into Wisdom 09/27/2023

Ep. 71: Clearing The Fog: Shane Parrish On Clarity In Decision-Making and Transforming Knowledge Into Wisdom "Often circumstances think for us, we don't really have a choice. And anybody who puts themselves in a bad position has no good options available. So a lot of the work involved in a decision comes before the actual decision is made." In decision-making, clarity is a critical element, if not the fundamental purpose; it reduces errors and facilitates confident, effective choice-making. In this episode, my guest sheds light on how to get clarity in decision-making, and I'll add, how to transform knowledge into wisdom. Shane Parrish is a former cybersecurity expert at Canada's top intelligence agency turned thought leader. He is the mind behind Farnam Street, a site that's very popular among the innovator and investor class that draws on a variety of thinkers from Lao Tsu and Emerson to Warren Buffett and Charlie Munger. Shane is also acclaimed for his bestselling series on mental models titled "The Great Mental Models Volume 1: General Thinking Concepts", Volume 2: Physics, Chemistry, and Biology", and "Volume 3: Systems and Mathematics." And his latest book, "Clear Thinking: Turning Ordinary Moments Into Extraordinary Results," is the topic of this podcast. Listen in as we dive into how to think more clearly and, in doing so, make better decisions. Discussion highlights include: The origin of Farnham Street and the influence of Berkshire Hathaway The problem with living life on 'autopilot' The importance of deep understanding. Recognizing 'ego default' and its role in clouded decision-making. Writing as a tool for clear thinking Decision lessons from everyday moments The importance of pre-decision positioning Explanation of the Learning Loop How to incorporate intuition in decision-making. How to get quality feedback input from experienced individuals. Safety nets: using rules and processes to enhance decision-making On mental models. How to think in reverse Separating problem identification from problem-solving The morning review: a method for decision validation I believe you're going to find this episode very insightful and incredibly useful. Listen carefully, as it's not just about gathering knowledge; it's about applying it in a way that brings clarity to our complex world. For show notes and more, visit /episode/index/show/bouncewlarryweeks/id/28153064

Ep. 70: Between Life and Death: Hadley Vlahos on Hospice care, End-of-Life Moments and Embracing Mortality 08/21/2023

Ep. 70: Between Life and Death: Hadley Vlahos on Hospice care, End-of-Life Moments and Embracing Mortality The world of hospice nursing has always been a profound intersection of life and death, revealing lessons not only about the journey of mortality but also about the true essence of living in the shadow of it. On this Podcast, my guest is Hadley Vlahos or simply Nurse Hadley. Hadley is not just a seasoned hospice nurse but also an end-of-life educator and now a New York Times bestselling author. Her journey and her experiences became the foundation for her bestselling work, The In-Between: Unforgettable Encounters During Life's Final Moments. The book captures deep, poignant stories from her time with patients, giving insights into what life's final moments can teach us about existence itself. Beyond her written work, Hadley has taken a step further with her nonprofit respite hospice house. This sanctuary is conceptualized to offer families a peaceful environment to remember and celebrate their loved ones. In today's episode, we cover these topic points : Her journey from young mother to nurse and from hospice nurse to author. Hadley's experiences where patients stated and acted out as if they were seeing their deceased loved ones - and what they reveal about end-of-life encounters. The enigma of the "in-between moments" and their interpretations. Our shared narratives on the afterlife and my skepticism. Some common and not-so-common regrets of the dying How Hadley thinks about death and how she tries to live her life in its shadow And lastly, the practicalities of hospice, from deciding when it's time to seek hospice care to understanding the intricacies of coverage. Despite the heavy nature of the topic, this episode is remarkably life-affirming. Many thinkers, from philosophers to psychologists, have advocated that understanding our own mortality paves the way to a richer, fuller life. Today's discussion provides not just a touch of emotional depth but also very practical advice that is invaluable to hear in advance of ever needing it. For show notes and more, visit /episode/index/show/bouncewlarryweeks/id/27813978

Ep. 69: Neil deGrasse Tyson on Cosmic Perspectives, Aliens, AI and Thinking Scientifically 07/06/2023

Ep. 68: Defeating Delay: Dr. Tim Pychyl On Solving the Procrastination Puzzle 06/23/2023

Ep. 67: How To Get Unstuck: Adam Alter On The Structure Of Breakthroughs 06/09/2023

Ep. 67: How To Get Unstuck: Adam Alter On The Structure Of Breakthroughs Getting stuck is inevitable. I hope you find yourself getting stuck only rarely, but when you do, know that breakthroughs aren't too far behind - Adam Alter Today we are going to look at the challenges of creative blocks, inertia, and the accompanying feeling of being stuck, whether it be a project, product, or personal life, and, more importantly, when we find ourselves in these states - how to get unstuck, what is the step by step structure of a breakthrough. My guest is Professor Adam Alter. Adam Alter is a Professor of Marketing at New York University's Stern School of Business and the Robert Stansky Teaching Excellence Faculty Fellow, with an affiliated appointment in the New York University Psychology Department. Adam is the New York Times bestselling author of two books: Irresistible (March 2017) and Drunk Tank Pink (2013), and his latest which is also the topic of the podcast - Anatomy of a Breakthrough: How to Get Unstuck When It Matters Most Adam has also written for the New York Times, New Yorker, Washington Post, Atlantic, WIRED, Slate, Huffington Post, and Popular Science, among other publications. Adam's academic research focuses on judgment, decision-making, and social psychology, with a particular interest in the surprising effects of subtle environmental cues on human cognition and behavior. His research has been published widely in academic journals and featured in dozens of TV, radio, and print outlets worldwide. In this episode, we delve into these subjects: The commonality of creative blocks why progress isn't always a straight line. How Our reactions to being stuck might be the real problem. The process of getting unstuck can lead to valuable advancements. Why the creative process is often lengthy and messy, contrary to many people's expectations. Why breakthroughs often seem accidental and come after hitting a wall. Do breakthroughs happen more commonly in a group (remote work) Does creativity decline over time? Breakthrough tactics, including the "friction audit." The role of environment in creativity and progress is significant. The use of AI as it relates to creative blocks. When should someone quit vs. persist - and much more For show notes and more, visit /episode/index/show/bouncewlarryweeks/id/27092343

Ep. 66: AI. Progress or Peril? Pedro Domingos On Where We Are Now and What's Next. 05/10/2023

Ep. 66: AI. Progress or Peril? Pedro Domingos On Where We Are Now and What's Next. "Learn to use AI. That's, that's my message. You wanna learn to use AI as a professional and as a citizen in your personal life. The more you know how to use it, the better you'll make of it, the better your life will be. AI gives power; like any technology, it gives power to those who understand it and use it" - Pedro Domingos Recent developments in AI, specifically consumer-facing generative AIs, are helping people create a lot of cool content while also generating a ton of concern. A big bucket of that concern is AI alignment - what are the possible unintended consequences to humans? The internet transformed our relationship to information, but it took a few years; now, AI is doing it in real time. My guest on this episode is Professor Pedro Domingos. Pedro is a leading AI researcher and the author of the worldwide bestseller "The Master Algorithm." He is a professor of computer science at the University of Washington in Seattle. He won the Special Interest Group on Knowledge Discovery and Data Mining Innovation Award and the international joint Conference on AI John McCarthy Award, two of the highest honors in data science and AI. Pedro helped start the fields of statistical relational AI, data stream mining, adversarial learning, machine learning for information integration, and influence maximization in social networks. On this episode, we run the gamut to include... Where are we with generative AIs Pedro demystifies LLMs (Large Language Models) Progress and problems with generative AIs Hallucination in AI - and Illusion in humans The homunculus fallacy Risks, regulations, known-unknowns Comments on existential threats The S curve in emerging technologies like AI AI's possible impact on employment and the economy Artificial General Intellience or AGI Goals and end games, is AGI the goal? Does he think LLMs AI's like ChatGPT are conscious? No matter your technical level, you'll enjoy this discussion with Pedro. He is passionate about the subject matter, no surprise - much of what he's predicted has come to pass in the field, And if you feel a tinge of AI anxiety, consider this a bit of exposure therapy. Listen and learn more about how these systems work and how they might impact your life. For show notes and more, visit /episode/index/show/bouncewlarryweeks/id/26801547

Ep. 65: Kevin Kelly With Excellent Advice For Living. 04/27/2023

Ep.64: Reboot Part 1: Jerry Colonna On Crucible Moments and Starting Over 04/17/2023

Ep.64: Reboot Part 1: Jerry Colonna On Crucible Moments and Starting Over "When we surface subroutines when we surface belief systems, we unleash a certain kind of potential, a certain kind of energy that enables us to do the one thing that a leader must do every day. Be creative" - Jerry Colonna Jerry Colonna, often referred to as the 'CEO whisperer,' is the co-founder of Reboot.io, an executive coaching and leadership development firm dedicated to the notion that better humans make better leaders. For nearly 20 years, he has used the knowledge gained as an investor, an executive, and a board member for more than 100 organizations to help entrepreneurs and others lead with humanity, resilience, and equanimity. Prior to his career as a coach, Jerry was a partner with JPMorgan Partners (JPMP), the private equity arm of JPMorgan Chase. Previously, he led New York City-based Flatiron Partners, which he founded in 1996 with partner Fred Wilson, which became one of the nation's most successful early-stage investment programs. He is also the author of Reboot: Leadership and the Art of Growing Up, which is also the touchstone for our conversation. There is something about Jerry. In 2017, WIRED published a piece on Jerry wherein this was written titled “This Man Makes Founders Cry.” I don’t know if it’s how he talks or looks at you, but when talking with him, I felt some sort of sympathetic energy field; it was like a psychic hand on the shoulder. When we spoke, I was dealing with a monster of a cold, coupled with Jerry’s superpower, turned this conversation into a coaching session of sorts. Jerry talks about leadership and crucible moments, moments that can be transformative, leading to a new or altered sense of identity. These moments often put our character to the test. If you are in any state of upheaval or change or know someone who is, please listen. Not just for the excellent advice, but there is something beneficial about hearing this level of empathy in someone’s voice. On the show, we discuss these topics and more … State of leadership currently Why Jerry has a reputation for making people cry Jerry's story, leaving JP Morgan How to leaders can deal with uncertainty in business The importance of soft skills coupled with hard skills Separating genius from personality Breaking open vs. shutting down What "rebooting" means What do first when you're laid off Mountain equanimity Work as an opportunity to become better humans If you are in any state of upheaval or change or know someone who is, please listen. Not just for the excellent advice, but there is something beneficial about hearing this level of empathy in someone's voice. Enjoy! For show notes and more, visit /episode/index/show/bouncewlarryweeks/id/26498253

EP. 63: How To Live More and Think Less. Dr. Pia Callesen On Metacognitive Approaches To A Happier Life 03/31/2023

EP. 62: How Emotions Are Made: Lisa Feldman Barrett On The Neuroscience of Feeling 03/17/2023

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