Smart People Podcast

Latest Episodes:

Reflections - The Truth About The Nature of Sex and Gender Mar 06, 2025

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Introducing 'Reflections,' a new twist on our classic podcast format. In this special new series, I'm flipping the script - instead of interviewing an expert, I'm sharing my personal takeaways, insights, and action items from our previous conversation. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at how our expert's wisdom is impacting my life, and discover how you can apply these lessons to your own journey.

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The Truth About Sex and Gender: What Nature Can Tell Us About Who We Really Are with Dr. Nathan Lents Feb 26, 2025

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Sex and gender are at the center of heated debates—but what if much of what we believe isn’t rooted in biological truth? In this episode, Dr. Nathan Lents, author of The Sexual Evolution, reveals what nature and evolution really tell us about sex, gender, and human relationships. You’ll discover why diversity in biology—whether in sex, gender, or mating strategies—isn’t just common but essential for survival. We explore surprising examples from the animal kingdom, including same-sex partnerships, sex-changing species, and why monogamy is far less “natural” than we think.

Dr. Lents challenges the idea of strict binaries and explains how understanding nature’s complexity can reshape how we view ourselves and others. If you’re ready to replace myths with science and gain fresh insights into what makes us human, this episode is a must-listen.

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Why AI Could Be the Key to Better, Faster, and Cheaper Healthcare with Dean of Stanford Medicine, Dr. Lloyd Minor Feb 11, 2025

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🚨 AI is changing healthcare—are we ready? 🚨

In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Lloyd Minor, Dean of the Stanford School of Medicine, to explore how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing medicine—from diagnosing diseases faster to improving patient care and even reshaping drug development. But with all the promise, there are major challenges: Can we trust AI with life-or-death decisions? Will it help fix our broken healthcare system or make things worse? Dr. Minor breaks down the good, the bad, and the future of AI in medicine, plus what you need to know about how it’s already being used today. This is the conversation that could shape the future of your health—don’t miss it! 🎧👇

#AI #HealthcareInnovation #Medicine #SmartPeoplePodcast

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Reflections - Three Tips for Inspiring Others (Adam Galinsky episode) Feb 05, 2025

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How Understanding Social Hierarchies Can Help You Inspire Others and Get What You Want with Adam Galinksy Jan 28, 2025

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In this episode, Adam Galinsky, acclaimed professor and TED speaker, dives into the fascinating world of social hierarchy, influence, and inspiration. From his role as an expert witness in high-profile cases like Dominion vs. Fox News to his groundbreaking research on human dynamics, Adam shares how understanding social structures can empower us to inspire and connect with others. We explore the leader amplification effect, the surprising power of small actions, and the keys to fostering better relationships through empathy and acknowledgment.

Adam also reveals how simple yet meaningful practices can help us navigate challenges and stay aligned with our values. Whether you're looking to improve your interactions, deepen your influence, or just better understand the psychology behind human connection, this conversation offers insights you won’t want to miss.

Adam's book, Inspire: The Universal Path for Leading Yourself and Others, is available wherever books are sold.

You can learn more about Adam at adamgalinsky.com.

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Reflections - How GLP-1s Changed My Thinking On Medicine (Dr. Alexandra Sowa episode) Jan 22, 2025

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Weight Loss and Willpower: The Science of Metabolic Health and GLP-1s with Dr. Alexandra Sowa Jan 15, 2025

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In this episode of Smart People Podcast, Dr. Alexandra Sowa, an expert in obesity and metabolic health, reveals the groundbreaking science behind GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and their impact on weight loss and overall health. Dr. Sowa explains how hormones like insulin, GLP-1, and leptin influence hunger, satiety, and fat storage—and how these signals can become disrupted, leading to weight gain and metabolic dysfunction. She discusses why traditional weight loss advice like "calories in, calories out" often fails, especially in the modern world of ultra-processed foods.

You’ll also learn how GLP-1s interact with the brain to reduce food cravings and regulate appetite, offering new hope for those struggling with weight loss. From resetting hunger levels to addressing neurohormonal imbalances, Dr. Sowa provides actionable insights for anyone interested in improving their metabolic health. Whether you’re curious about these medications or want to better understand the science of metabolism, this episode is packed with eye-opening information.

Dr. Sowa's book, The Ozempic Revolution: A Doctor's Proven Plan for Success to Help You Reverse Obesity, End Yo-Yo Dieting, and Protect Yourself from Disease, is available wherever books are sold.

You can learn more about Dr. Sowa at alexandrasowamd.com.

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Reflections - How Learning About Mysticism Has Changed the Way I Live (Simon Critchley Episode) Dec 24, 2024

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What Mysticism Can Teach Us About Living Well, with Philosopher Simon Critchley Dec 17, 2024

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What if you could taste intensity, experience life fully, and connect deeply with existence? Join us for a fascinating conversation exploring the world of mysticism. We delve into the concept of mysticism as a mode of experience and way of life, beyond religious practice. Discover how embracing the unknown can transform your life. Our guest shares insights from their latest book, revealing the practical possibilities of mystical experience. From intense aliveness to ecstatic living, this episode will challenge your perceptions.

Simon's book, Mysticism, is available wherever books are sold.

You can learn more about Simon at simon-critchley.com.

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Reflections - My 4 Biggest Lessons from Richard Cytowic Dec 11, 2024

Show notes

Introducing 'Reflections,' a new twist on our classic podcast format. In this special episode, I'm flipping the script - instead of interviewing an expert, I'm sharing my personal takeaways, insights, and action items from our previous conversation. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at how our expert's wisdom is impacting my life, and discover how you can apply these lessons to your own journey.

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