Podcasts by Category
Sometimes all it takes is one little fact or one little piece of wisdom to change your life forever. That's the purpose and the hope of "Something You Should Know." In each episode, host Mike Carruthers interviews top experts in their field to bring you fascinating information and advice to help you save time and money, advance in your career, become wealthy, improve your relationships and help you simply get more out of life. In addition, Mike uncovers and shares short, engaging pieces of "intel" you can use to make your life better - today. Right now.
- 1372 - Bonus: SYSK TRENDING - The Science of Sleeping, Breathing, and Hydration
Why would anyone need to be taught how to sleep, breathe, or drink water? Those are things you already do every day. And yet, it turns out most of us are doing them just wrong enough to undermine our health. In this SYSK Trending episode, I talk with Michael Breus, one of the world’s leading sleep experts, about how small adjustments to when and how you sleep, breathe, and hydrate can produce outsized benefits for your energy, immunity, metabolism, and long-term health. Dr. Breus is a double-board-certified clinical psychologist and sleep specialist, and the author of Sleep Drink Breathe: Simple Daily Habits for Profound Long-Term Health (https://amzn.to/3ZposzW). His research shows that better health doesn’t always require doing more—it often comes from doing the basics correctly. This is simple advice, but it’s powerful—and it may change how you think about your daily habits. You can also take the Chrono Quiz Dr. Breus discusses here: https://sleepdoctor.com/pages/sleep-quiz PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS QUINCE: Refresh your wardrobe with Quince! Go to https://Quince.dom/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too! HIMS: For simple, online access to personalized and affordable care for Hair Loss, ED, Weight Loss, and more, visit https://Hims.com/SOMETHING for your free online visit! SHOPIFY: Sign up for your $1 per month trail and start selling today at https://Shopify.com/sysk DELL: Dell Tech Days are here. Enjoy huge deals on PCs like the Dell 14 Plus with Intel® Core™ Ultra processors. Visit https://Dell.com/deals PLANET VISIONARIES: We love the Planet Visionaries podcast, so listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you're listening to this podcast! In partnership with The Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 10 Feb 2026 - 1371 - The Automatic Path to Wealth & How to Beat Self-Doubt
We’ve all heard the “rules” about sleep — you need exactly eight hours, falling asleep in front of the TV is bad, and you can make up for lost sleep on the weekend. But how much of that is actually true? This episode begins by separating sleep myths from sleep reality — and the answers may surprise you. https://www.thehealthy.com/sleep/sleep-facts-myths/ When it comes to building wealth, complexity is often the enemy. Many financial experts agree that the simplest strategy — saving automatically before you ever see the money — is also one of the most powerful. But how does it work in practice? How quickly does it add up? And why does automation matter so much? David Bach joins me to explain why this approach has helped millions of people grow wealth quietly and consistently. David is author of ten best-selling books, including The Automatic Millionaire (https://amzn.to/4rjqoow), recently expanded and updated. Self-doubt has a sneaky way of holding us back. It shows up right when opportunities appear, making us hesitate, second-guess, or play it safe — even when we know what we want. Where does that inner voice come from, and how do you turn it down without pretending it doesn’t exist? Shadé Zahrai offers insight into how self-doubt forms and how to build real confidence that lasts. She’s a behavioral researcher, award-winning peak-performance educator, and author of Big Trust: Rewire Self-Doubt, Find Your Confidence (https://amzn.to/49VY9GV). And finally, no matter how bug-free you think your home is, you’re not alone in it. A surprising number of tiny creatures live alongside us — and in many cases, that’s actually a good thing. We wrap up with who these unseen roommates are and why they’re part of a healthy home ecosystem. https://www.ipm.org/show/amomentofscience/2023-03-28/arthropods-in-your-house PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS QUINCE: Refresh your wardrobe with Quince! Go to https://Quince.dom/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns. Now available in Canada, too! HIMS: For simple, online access to personalized and affordable care for Hair Loss, ED, Weight Loss, and more, visit https://Hims.com/SOMETHING for your free online visit! SHOPIFY: Sign up for your $1 per month trail and start selling today at https://Shopify.com/sysk DELL: Dell Tech Days are here. Enjoy huge deals on PCs like the Dell 14 Plus with Intel® Core™ Ultra processors. Visit https://Dell.com/deals PLANET VISIONARIES: We love the Planet Visionaries podcast, so listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you're listening to this podcast! In partnership with The Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 09 Feb 2026 - 1370 - Why Everything We Do Matters & The Importance of Big Tech Oversight - SYSK Choice
Human touch feels good — but it may also do far more than we realize. From a reassuring hand on the shoulder to a long hug or massage, deliberate touch can trigger measurable biological responses in the body. This episode begins with what science reveals about why touch matters and what happens when we don’t get enough of it. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/everyone-top/202108/the-vital-importance-human-touch It’s easy to assume that the big moments shape our lives — but what if tiny, seemingly meaningless choices matter just as much, or even more? A few minutes, a small decision, or a random event can quietly ripple outward in ways we never see. Brian Klaas joins me to explain how chance, chaos, and randomness shape our lives — and how understanding this can actually help you make better choices. Brian is an associate professor in global politics at University College London, a contributing writer for The Atlantic, and author of Fluke: Chance, Chaos, and Why Everything We Do Matters (https://amzn.to/3SrRj31). “Big Tech” companies influence how we communicate, shop, work, and even think — yet they operate with surprisingly little oversight. Who should be setting the rules for companies with that much power? And what happens if no one does? Tom Wheeler explains why tech regulation matters, what’s at stake, and who should be in charge. Tom served as Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission during the Obama administration and is author of Techlash: Who Makes the Rules in the Digital Gilded Age? (https://amzn.to/47OunPU). And finally, could what kids eat affect their risk of asthma, eczema, or other allergic conditions? Research suggests a link between fast food consumption and respiratory allergies. We wrap up with what scientists have found and why it matters. https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/scitranslmed.3005803 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 07 Feb 2026 - 1369 - Why We Buy Cheap Stuff - Then Regret It & Important Clues About Your Health
There’s an art — and a surprising amount of psychology — behind giving a great compliment. When done well, flattery can strengthen relationships, build trust, and make people more receptive. When done poorly, it can feel awkward or manipulative. This episode begins with what research says about how to give and receive compliments the right way. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/evidence-based-living/202109/the-psychology-compliments-nice-word-goes-long-way Americans buy an astonishing amount of cheap stuff — souvenirs, knick-knacks, novelty items, gadgets — most of which quickly lose their appeal and end up forgotten in drawers or closets. Why are we so drawn to these things in the first place? And why do they so often disappoint us? Wendy Woloson joins me to explain the deep cultural, emotional, and historical forces behind our love of “cheap crap.” She’s an associate professor of history at Rutgers University–Camden and author of Crap: A History of Cheap Stuff in America (https://amzn.to/3M9M9WM). When it comes to health, many people may be thinking about exercise all wrong. Staying healthy isn’t just about gym workouts or formal exercise — it’s about how much you move throughout the entire day. Small movements, done consistently, can have a powerful impact on longevity and overall fitness. Juliet Starrett explains why everyday movement matters more than you think and how to easily build it into your routine. She’s co-author of Built to Move (https://amzn.to/3ZwADHH) and host of The Ready State podcast.(https://thereadystate.com/podcasts/) And finally — if you’re someone who doodles while listening, you may not be distracted at all. Research suggests doodling can actually improve focus and memory. We wrap up with why letting your pen wander may help your brain pay better attention. https://www.wsj.com/articles/the-power-of-the-doodle-improve-your-focus-and-memory-1406675744 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 05 Feb 2026 - 1368 - Bonus: SYSK TRENDING - Finding Your Motivation
SYSK TRENDING takes a look back at conversations from the Something You Should Know archive that connect directly to topics people are talking about right now. Motivation is one of them. We tend to think people are motivated by carrots and sticks — rewards if you do what’s expected, punishment if you don’t. And while that approach can work in some situations, research shows it’s often not the most effective way to motivate yourself or others. Daniel Pink explains what actually drives human motivation and why autonomy, mastery, and purpose matter far more than we realize. Daniel is the author of Drive: The Surprising Truth about What Motivates Us (https://amzn.to/4kn5DGs) , and in this conversation he shares practical insights you can use at work, at home, and in your own life — especially at a time when so many people are struggling to stay motivated. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 03 Feb 2026 - 1367 - The Human Need to Matter & The Enduring Appeal of Cats
You’ve probably been told to be grateful for what you have — but that advice isn’t just feel-good wisdom. Research shows that intentionally expressing gratitude can actually change how your brain functions, influencing mood, focus, and emotional resilience. This episode begins with what gratitude really does inside your head — and why it’s more powerful than it sounds. https://www.thecut.com/2016/01/how-expressing-gratitude-change-your-brain.html There’s a basic human need we rarely talk about, yet it quietly shapes how people behave: the need to matter – to feel significant. When people feel seen and valued they tend to thrive. When they don’t, the consequences can be serious — for individuals and for society. Jennifer Breheny Wallace joins me to explain why mattering is so essential and how it affects relationships, motivation, and well-being. She’s an award-winning journalist and author of Mattering: The Secret to a Life of Deep Connection and Purpose (https://amzn.to/4r0ZX6W). Cats are the second most popular pets in the United States — yet many people don’t understand the appeal at all. Cats can seem aloof, independent, and uninterested in pleasing us. So why have humans kept cats as companions for thousands of years? And what do cat lovers get from the relationship that others miss? Jerry Moore explains the long, surprising history of cats and why they continue to captivate us. He’s a professor emeritus of anthropology at California State University, Dominguez Hills, and author of Cat Tales: A History (https://amzn.to/4sUBPEU). And finally, when you’re sick with a cold or the flu, some old-fashioned home remedies actually have science on their side. They may not cure you — but they can make being sick a little less miserable. We wrap up with which remedies help and why they work.https://www.consumerreports.org/health/flu/how-to-beat-a-bad-cold-or-the-flu-a9270666041/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 02 Feb 2026 - 1366 - Our Strange Relationship With Robots & What is Confidence? - SYSK Choice
In almost every job interview, there’s one question that catches people off guard — not because it’s rare, but because most candidates think they already know how to answer it. They don’t. This episode begins by revealing that question and how to craft a response that instantly sets you apart. https://www.forbes.com/pictures/lml45mmjg/why-should-i-hire-you-2/?sh=4c5a502c53d8 Robots fascinate us — and that fascination may be leading us into trouble. Even when we know robots are just machines, we instinctively treat them like thinking, feeling beings. We trust them, empathize with them, and sometimes overestimate their intelligence. Eve Herold explains why this happens, the real risks it creates, and how humans can maintain control and clarity as social robots become part of everyday life. She’s an award-winning science writer and author of Robots and the People Who Love Them: Holding on to Our Humanity in an Age of Social Robots. (https://amzn.to/3ObcBzb) Most people think confidence is something you either have or you don’t — but that assumption may be the problem. According to Viv Groskop, you likely already have more confidence than you realize. The key is knowing how to access it and project it in the moments that matter most. Viv is a writer, comedian, executive coach, and author of Happy High Status: How to Effortlessly Be Confident. (https://amzn.to/3vQYj0h) And finally, an eye exam does far more than determine whether you need glasses or contacts. In many cases, it can reveal early warning signs of serious health conditions you might not otherwise detect. We wrap up with why regular eye exams are more important than most people realize. https://www.allaboutvision.com/eye-exam/cost-and-how-often/ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS SHOPIFY: In 2026, stop waiting and start selling with Shopify! Sign up for your $1 per month trail and start selling today at https://Shopify.com/sysk PLANET VISIONARIES: We love the Planet Visionaries podcast, so listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you're listening to this podcast! In partnership with The Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 31 Jan 2026 - 1365 - Why You Click With Some People & How to Pursue Anything with Excellence
If you want a conversation to feel more engaging and connected, there’s a small, often overlooked detail that can quietly shape how the other person experiences you before either of you even says a word. And it all has to do with your phone. This episode begins with research revealing what that detail is and why it matters more than most people realize. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC12110250/ You’ve likely experienced that rare moment when you just click with someone. Conversation flows. It seems effortless – it’s feels magical. But what’s actually happening in those moments — and why doesn’t it happen with everyone? Journalist Kate Murphy joins me to explain the science behind interpersonal synchrony, the conditions that make clicking more likely, and why these moments feel so meaningful. Kate has written for The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal and is author of Why We Click: The Emerging Science of Interpersonal Synchrony. https://amzn.to/4sM4a04 We hear the word excellence everywhere — but what does it really mean to pursue it? Do we need to strive for excellence in everything we do? Is it okay to be average at some things? And how do you avoid chasing what looks like excellence but actually leads to burnout or dissatisfaction? Brad Stulberg explains the difference between true excellence and what he calls “pseudo-excellence,” and how to pursue mastery in a way that leads to both high performance and deep satisfaction. Brad is a writer, researcher, performance coach, and author of The Way of Excellence: A Guide to True Greatness and Deep Satisfaction in a Chaotic World. https://amzn.to/4qY237s When you spend discretionary money, you probably think you know what you’re buying. But there’s another way to think about those purchases — one that research suggests can have a big impact on how satisfied and balanced you feel about spending that money. We wrap up with a shift in perspective that may change how you decide what’s worth spending money on. https://www.nbcboston.com/news/national-international/outsourcing-household-chores-happier-relationship/3871202/ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS SHOPIFY: In 2026, stop waiting and start selling with Shopify! Sign up for your $1 per month trail and start selling today at https://Shopify.com/sysk PLANET VISIONARIES: We love the Planet Visionaries podcast, so listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you're listening to this podcast! In partnership with The Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 29 Jan 2026 - 1364 - How Great Ideas Are Born & Why We Stick With People Like Us
Written communication strips away tone, facial expression, and nuance — which is why texts and emails are so easy to misinterpret. Sarcasm, humor, and intent can get lost, sometimes with awkward or costly consequences. This episode begins with how emojis can restore subtlety to digital communication — if you know which ones actually help and which ones make things worse. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0747563221002946?utm Some of the greatest ideas — and even entire careers — were never planned. Potato chips, penicillin, and Post-it Notes were all accidents. Success often comes not from careful design, but from noticing opportunities hidden inside unexpected events. Innovation expert Paul Sloane explains how breakthroughs really happen and how you can position yourself to recognize them when they appear. Paul is author of The Art of Unexpected Solutions (https://amzn.to/3ZeKEvw). People naturally gravitate toward others who think, act, and believe the same way they do. We form tribes — social, political, professional — and those bonds can feel deeply comforting. But this instinct also shapes how we see outsiders and influences cooperation, conflict, and culture itself. Cultural psychologist Michael Morris explores why humans evolved this instinct and whether it ultimately helps or harms us. He is author of Tribal: How the Cultural Instincts That Divide Us Can Help Bring Us Together (https://amzn.to/4pJ6K4n). And finally, weight loss is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions — and one of the quickest to be abandoned. Research suggests that a handful of surprisingly small habits can dramatically improve your chances of sticking with it. We wrap up with what actually works. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34259635/ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS SHOPIFY: In 2026, stop waiting and start selling with Shopify! Sign up for your $1 per month trail and start selling today at https://Shopify.com/sysk PLANET VISIONARIES: We love the Planet Visionaries podcast, so listen on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you're listening to this podcast! In partnership with The Rolex Perpetual Planet Initiative. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 26 Jan 2026 - 1363 - The Powerful Ways Culture Shapes Us & Why We Struggle With Fitness-SYSK Choice
Is a newborn baby more likely to resemble mom or dad – or is it a toss-up? This episode begins by explaining why a baby is more likely to look like one parent and not the other and why that is. https://www.nytimes.com/2005/03/22/health/the-claim-babies-tend-to-look-like-their-fathers.html When people talk about the “culture” – why do they mean? What is culture. You probably use the word in conversation and you have a sense of what it means but it is actually a difficult word to define. Here to define it and explain why it is so important to understand what culture is and how it changes is Marcus Collins. He is a clinical assistant professor of marketing at the Ross School of Business, at the University of Michigan and recipient of Advertising Age’s 40 Under 40 award. He is also author of the book, For the Culture: The Power Behind What We Buy, What We Do, and Who We Want to Be (https://amzn.to/3tOT4On). It is a little strange that there is such a fitness craze in America yet so many people are not physically fit at all. The medical evidence is pretty clear that being physically fit and keeping your weight under control is so important to a long and healthy life. So why are so many people not motivated to do it and how can you find the motivation to start if you are not feeling inclined? Joining me to talk about this is Natalia Petrzela. She is an historian of contemporary American politics and culture as well as a fitness instructor and she is author of the book Fit Nation: The Gains and Pains of America’s Exercise Obsession (https://amzn.to/48V5LGb) Is it ever too late to change your life or must you set your course early if you are ever to make something of yourself? Interestingly, researchers followed 350 students for decades – all the way into adulthood to see how they turned out. Listen as I explain how people tend to change and how those goof-offs you remember from high school are likely to end up doing pretty well. Source: Susan Krause Whitborne author of The Search for Fulfillment (https://amzn.to/3O9XuWP). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 24 Jan 2026 - 1362 - Why Everything We Do Matters & The Importance of Big Tech Oversight - SYSK Choice
Human touch feels good — but it may also do far more than we realize. From a reassuring hand on the shoulder to a long hug or massage, deliberate touch can trigger measurable biological responses in the body. This episode begins with what science reveals about why touch matters and what happens when we don’t get enough of it. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/everyone-top/202108/the-vital-importance-human-touch It’s easy to assume that the big moments shape our lives — but what if tiny, seemingly meaningless choices matter just as much, or even more? A few minutes, a small decision, or a random event can quietly ripple outward in ways we never see. Brian Klaas joins me to explain how chance, chaos, and randomness shape our lives — and how understanding this can actually help you make better choices. Brian is an associate professor in global politics at University College London, a contributing writer for The Atlantic, and author of Fluke: Chance, Chaos, and Why Everything We Do Matters (https://amzn.to/3SrRj31). “Big Tech” companies influence how we communicate, shop, work, and even think — yet they operate with surprisingly little oversight. Who should be setting the rules for companies with that much power? And what happens if no one does? Tom Wheeler explains why tech regulation matters, what’s at stake, and who should be in charge. Tom served as Chairman of the Federal Communications Commission during the Obama administration and is author of Techlash: Who Makes the Rules in the Digital Gilded Age? (https://amzn.to/47OunPU). And finally, could what kids eat affect their risk of asthma, eczema, or other allergic conditions? Research suggests a link between fast food consumption and respiratory allergies. We wrap up with what scientists have found and why it matters. https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/scitranslmed.3005803 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 10 Jan 2026 - 1361 - The Human Need to Matter & The Enduring Appeal of Cats
You’ve probably been told to be grateful for what you have — but that advice isn’t just feel-good wisdom. Research shows that intentionally expressing gratitude can actually change how your brain functions, influencing mood, focus, and emotional resilience. This episode begins with what gratitude really does inside your head — and why it’s more powerful than it sounds. https://www.thecut.com/2016/01/how-expressing-gratitude-change-your-brain.html There’s a basic human need we rarely talk about, yet it quietly shapes how people behave: the need to matter – to feel significant. When people feel seen and valued they tend to thrive. When they don’t, the consequences can be serious — for individuals and for society. Jennifer Breheny Wallace joins me to explain why mattering is so essential and how it affects relationships, motivation, and well-being. She’s an award-winning journalist and author of Mattering: The Secret to a Life of Deep Connection and Purpose. (https://amzn.to/4r0ZX6W). Cats are the second most popular pets in the United States — yet many people don’t understand the appeal at all. Cats can seem aloof, independent, and uninterested in pleasing us. So why have humans kept cats as companions for thousands of years? And what do cat lovers get from the relationship that others miss? Jerry Moore explains the long, surprising history of cats and why they continue to captivate us. He’s a professor emeritus of anthropology at California State University, Dominguez Hills, and author of Cat Tales: A History (https://amzn.to/4sUBPEU) And finally, when you’re sick with a cold or the flu, some old-fashioned home remedies actually have science on their side. They may not cure you — but they can make being sick a little less miserable. We wrap up with which remedies help and why they work. https://www.consumerreports.org/health/truth-about-home-remedies-for-colds Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 05 Jan 2026 - 1360 - How Not to Die Anytime Soon & Why You Need Friction in Your Life
When you get sick, your instinct is to withdraw — crawl into bed, cancel plans, and avoid people. As unpleasant as that feels, it turns out that instinct may be doing something surprisingly important for everyone else. This episode begins with why feeling miserable when you’re sick is actually a good thing. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2016/01/160107094128.htm If you really want to know what’s most likely to seriously injure or kill you, talk to an ER doctor. They see patterns most of us never think about — and many of the dangers are far more ordinary than you’d expect. Ashley Alker joins me to share the risks she sees again and again — and how to avoid them. She’s an emergency medicine physician, medical consultant for shows on Netflix, Hulu, HBO, and Disney, and author of 99 Ways to Die and How to Avoid Them (https://amzn.to/3NlW91w) Friction is everywhere. It slows you down, wears things out, and wastes energy — yet without it, you couldn’t walk, drive, or even stand still. What would life actually be like if friction didn’t exist? And why is understanding it so important? Jennifer R. Vail explains the invisible force that quietly shapes nearly everything you do. She founded DuPont’s first tribology research lab, delivered the TED Talk The Science of Friction (viewed over two million times), and is author of Friction: A Biography (https://amzn.to/454i7wf) And finally, there’s a simple way to make coffee or hot chocolate taste better — without changing the recipe. The color of your mug actually alters how your brain perceives flavor. We wrap up by revealing which colors work best for which drinks. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2013/01/130103073238.htm Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 22 Jan 2026 - 1359 - How to Adapt When Life Throws a Curveball & Understanding the Flow of Time
What if one of the best-performing investments over the last few decades wasn’t stocks, real estate, or gold — but LEGO? It sounds absurd, yet when researchers tracked the resale value of LEGO sets, they found returns that beat many traditional investments. We begin by looking at which sets gain value, why they do, and what makes some toys unexpectedly valuable. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0275531921001604 Life rarely goes according to plan. Careers shift, relationships change, health issues arise, and unexpected events force us to adapt — often before we feel ready. Since change is unavoidable, the real question becomes: how do you respond when life throws you off course? Maya Shankar joins me with powerful insights on navigating uncertainty and finding meaning when plans fall apart. Maya is a cognitive scientist, former senior advisor in the Obama White House, Senior Director of Behavioral Economics at Google, host of A Slight Change of Plans, and author of The Other Side of Change: Who We Become When Life Makes Other Plans (https://amzn.to/4qAad5U) Time is one of the few constants in life — yet our experience of it is anything but constant. Why does time seem to fly on vacation but crawl in traffic? Why do many people feel that time speeds up as they get older? And what is time, really? Sten Odenwald helps untangle these questions. He’s a longtime astronomer, Director of NASA’s STEM Resource Development Project, and author of The Essential Book of Time (https://amzn.to/3N6qNfm). And finally, legendary relationship researcher John Gottman says long-term relationships don’t succeed because of romance, passion, or even communication skills alone. Instead, they hinge on just two essential qualities — and without them, relationships are likely doomed. Listen to find out what they are. https://www.businessinsider.com/lasting-relationships-rely-on-2-traits-2014-11 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 19 Jan 2026 - 1358 - The Science of Recognizing Faces & The Rules to Clearer Thinking-SYSK Choice
How food tastes has surprisingly little to do with the food itself. The lighting in the room, the weight of your fork, and even the color of your plate can all change how much you enjoy a meal — without you realizing it. This episode begins with how easily your senses can be influenced. https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2014/12/31/370397449/food-psychology-how-to-trick-your-palate-into-a-tastier-meal# When you recognize someone, it usually happens instantly — but what exactly are you recognizing? How much of a face do you need to see? Why are some people incredibly good at recognizing faces while others struggle or are completely face blind? And how does facial recognition software compare to the human brain? Sharrona Pearl joins me to explore why face recognition varies so dramatically between people. She is associate professor of medical ethics and history at Drexel University and author of Do I Know You?: From Face Blindness to Super Recognition (https://amzn.to/3TWc0VX). We like to believe we think clearly and rationally — but much of the time our brains are running on autopilot. That’s when bad decisions, faulty reasoning, and unnecessary mistakes creep in. Shane Parrish explains how to slow down your thinking, avoid mental traps, and make better decisions in everyday moments. Shane is an entrepreneur whose work is used by Fortune 500 companies and professional sports teams, host of The Knowledge Project podcast, and author of Clear Thinking: Turning Ordinary Moments into Extraordinary Results (https://amzn.to/3Hl0FHj). And finally, some people insist they can drink coffee right before bed and sleep just fine. Is that really possible — or are they fooling themselves? We wrap up with what sleep science actually says about caffeine and nighttime rest. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/shift-worker-alert-curb-t_b_386058 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 17 Jan 2026 - 1357 - Why It's Good to Feel Guilty & How Plagiarism Really Works
There’s a reason hearing your mother’s voice can feel different from hearing anyone else’s — even when it’s just a phone call. This episode opens with the surprising effects researchers have discovered. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-psychology-of-relationships/202104/two-key-reasons-why-you-should-call-your-mom Guilt feels terrible — and that’s exactly what makes it so effective. While we tend to see guilt as something to avoid, it may actually play an essential role in helping us learn, repair relationships, and behave more ethically. Christopher Moore explains why guilt exists, how it evolved, and why feeling guilty can sometimes be a very good thing. Christopher is a professor of psychology and former dean of science at Dalhousie University, whose work has been cited in Psychology Today, Today’s Parent, and The New York Times. He is author of The Power of Guilt: Why We Feel It and Its Surprising Ability to Heal (https://amzn.to/3Nrt051). Plagiarism seems like a clear-cut wrongdoing — but the reality is far more complicated. People plagiarize more often than you might think, sometimes without even realizing it. And in some cases, you can be accused of plagiarism even if you’ve never seen the original work. With only so many ways to tell a story or write a song, where does coincidence end and plagiarism begin? Roger Kreuz joins me to explore this fascinating gray area. He is Associate Dean and professor of psychology at the University of Memphis, a columnist for Psychology Today, and author of Strikingly Similar: Plagiarism and Appropriation from Chaucer to Chatbots. (https://amzn.to/4soVFaS). And finally, there’s a widespread belief that dark roast coffee has more caffeine than light roast — or that espresso packs far more caffeine than a regular cup of coffee. Both ideas sound logical, but they’re not quite right. We wrap up by explaining what actually determines caffeine content and why these myths persist. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/light-vs-dark-roast-coffee Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 15 Jan 2026 - 1356 - Powerful Ways to Regulate Your Emotions & What Laughter Does for You
When children grow up and look back on their childhood, what do they remember most about their parents? It turns out it’s not what many parents assume. This episode begins with research revealing which parenting behaviors leave the strongest, longest-lasting impressions — and how they shape adult relationships. https://time.com/4097995/parenting-kids-remember/ Some emotions can completely hijack your day. Anger, anxiety, frustration, and stress often feel automatic — as if you have no control once they show up. But that’s not actually true. Dr. Ryan Martin explains science-backed ways to regulate emotions both before they spiral and in the moment. Ryan is Dean of the College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences and Professor of Psychology at the University of Wisconsin–Green Bay, and author of several books on emotions, including Emotion Hacks: 50 Ways to Feel Better Fast (https://amzn.to/4qrv9fj). Laughter feels good — but why do we do it? And why do humans laugh so much more than other animals? Is laughter actually good for your health, or is it just enjoyable? And what makes something funny in the first place? Christopher Duffy joins me to unpack the science and psychology of laughter. He’s a comedian, television writer, host of the TED podcast How to Be a Better Human, and author of Humor Me: How Laughing More Can Make You Present, Creative, Connected, and Happy (https://amzn.to/3LjKOyi). And finally, you’ve probably heard you should never let your gas tank drop below a quarter full — but is that really true? We wrap up by separating myth from reality and explaining when low fuel actually matters and when it doesn’t. https://www.carparts.com/blog/fact-or-myth-driving-with-less-than-a-quarter-of-a-tank-of-fuel-is-bad-for-your-car/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 12 Jan 2026 - 1355 - Strange Ways Men and Women Differ & Why We Label Some Animals Pests - SYSK Choice
Creating strong passwords is a modern headache. Simple ones are easy to hack. Complex ones are hard to remember. And using the same password everywhere is just asking for trouble. This episode begins with a smarter, practical strategy for creating passwords that are both secure and memorable. Source: Sid Kirchheimer, author of Scam-Proof Your Life (https://amzn.to/3SeWhA5) Men and women differ in ways that go far beyond the obvious — and some of the most fascinating differences rarely get discussed. From how men and women hear sound differently, to why women tend to live longer, to how hormones influence behavior in surprisingly specific ways, these differences are deeply rooted in biology and evolution. Cat Bohannon joins me to explain what science really shows. She holds a Ph.D. from Columbia University and is author of Eve: How the Female Body Drove 200 Million Years of Human Evolution (https://amzn.to/3SgBUlO). Rats, insects, bees, deer, spiders — the world is full of creatures we label as “pests.” But what actually makes an animal a pest? And why do humans respond to some species with fear, anger, or extermination, while others get sympathy or protection? Bethany Brookshire explains how humans often create pests through our own behavior, and what our reactions reveal about us. She’s an award-winning science writer and author of Pests: How Humans Create Animal Villains (https://amzn.to/3vzlpZt) And finally, most drivers never adjust their car’s headrest — or even know how it should be positioned. In a crash, that small oversight can make a big difference. We wrap up with how to set your headrest properly to reduce the risk of whiplash and neck injury. https://www.adlergiersch.com/provider-blog/how-to-properly-adjust-your-headrest-to-prevent-whiplash/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 10 Jan 2026 - 1354 - How Your Sense of Taste Really Works & Why Sports Fans Care So Much
Driving with a cold might seem harmless — but research suggests even mild illness can seriously impair reaction time, focus, and judgment. Could driving while sick actually be more dangerous than driving drunk? This episode begins with some surprising evidence about what happens when you get behind the wheel with a cold or flu. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2283323/Dont-sniffle-drive-Driving-cold-dangerous-drunk-driving.html Why do some people love foods that others can’t stand? And why do foods you hated as a child sometimes become favorites later in life? Taste feels subjective, but it’s driven by biology, psychology, memory, and expectation. Beth Kimmerle joins me to explain how taste and flavor really work — and how our preferences can change over time. Beth is a sensory science expert who literally tastes food for a living (yes, her tongue is insured). She’s founder of Attribute Analytics and author of several books on sweets and flavor, including Chocolate: The Sweet History. (https://amzn.to/4s92MEB). Being a sports fan can feel deeply personal — victories feel like our wins, losses feel painful, and loyalty can last a lifetime. But why does sports fandom inspire such intense emotion? What psychological needs does it fulfill? And why do fans speak in terms of “we” instead of “they”? Aaron C.T. Smith explains what drives sports fandom and why being a fan can be so powerful. He is professor of management at Newcastle Business School, University of Newcastle, and author of The Psychology of Sports Fans.(https://amzn.to/49a5yRc) And finally — who wakes up grumpier in the morning, men or women? There actually is research on this, and it reveals some surprising insights into mood, sleep, and biology. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-2292195/Its-official-Women-ARE-grumpier-men-mornings.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 08 Jan 2026 - 1353 - How Ozempic and Similar Weight Loss Drugs Really Work & The Story of Money
Can simply imagining yourself doing something actually make you better at it? Athletes, musicians, and performers have sworn by mental rehearsal for years — but does it really work? This episode begins by exploring when visualization helps, when it doesn’t, and why. https://www.popsci.com/will-practicing-skill-your-head-make-you-better-it/ Weight loss is one of the most common New Year’s resolutions — and today, any serious conversation about losing weight quickly turns to Ozempic and similar drugs. For many people, these medications have been remarkably effective. But how do they actually work? Are they safe long-term? What are the side effects? And what happens when you stop taking them? Aimee Donnellan joins me to break down the science, the risks, and the realities. She is a columnist at Reuters who covers the pharmaceutical industry and author of Off the Scales: The Inside Story of Ozempic and the Race to Cure Obesity (https://amzn.to/44tBoqE). Money is so embedded in our lives that we rarely stop to question it — yet nearly every culture on Earth has invented its own version. Money has shaped human behavior, powered civilizations, and driven innovation, for thousands of years. David McWilliams explains the extraordinary history of money and how it really works. He is a former central bank economist, host of The David McWilliams Podcast, and author of The History of Money: A Story of Humanity. (https://amzn.to/4anViHd). Cold weather can feel unbearable — but there are simple, science-backed ways to stay warmer (or at least feel warmer) when temperatures drop. This episode wraps up with practical strategies that actually work. https://www.thehealthy.com/home-remedies/make-body-feel-warmer/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 05 Jan 2026 - 1352 - How the Moon Transformed Earth & Fun and Easy Housecleaning Hacks - SYSK Choice
Have you ever noticed that one foot is often slightly bigger than the other? It sounds odd, but it’s extremely common — and there’s a clear biological reason for it. This episode begins with why it happens, which foot is usually larger, and what it means for comfort and health. https://www.feetbypody.com/blog/is-it-normal-for-one-foot-to-be-bigger-than-the-other/ The Moon has been hanging over our heads for billions of years — but why is it there at all? Where did it come from? Why doesn’t it crash into Earth? And what would life be like if the Moon never existed? Rebecca Boyle joins me to explore how Earth’s closest companion shaped our planet, influenced evolution, and made life as we know it possible. Rebecca is a columnist at Atlas Obscura, a contributor to Scientific American, The New York Times, Popular Science, and Smithsonian Air & Space, and author of Our Moon: How Earth’s Celestial Companion Transformed the Planet, Guided Evolution, and Made Us Who We Are. (https://amzn.to/3O1xn4s). Most people don’t enjoy cleaning — but some people absolutely love it. And when they do, they tend to discover remarkably effective (and sometimes surprising) ways to do it better. You’re about to meet Patric Richardson, known as The Laundry Guy on HGTV and Discovery+. He shares smart, unconventional cleaning tips that will change how you do laundry — including why cheap vodka might become your new secret weapon. Patric is author of House Love: A Joyful Guide to Cleaning, Organizing, and Loving the Home You’re In (https://amzn.to/3vidAao). Here are some of the products Patric mentions: Scrubbers that attach to a drill: https://amzn.to/47vgd6h Waste baskets: https://vipp.com/en-us/shop/bins Laundry soap (not detergent): https://laundryevangelist.com/products/laundry-evangelist-laundry-soap-flakes And finally, many people resolve to lose weight at the start of a new year — yet most don’t stick with it. The problem isn’t motivation; it’s how goals are set. We wrap up with a smarter way to create resolutions that actually last, using proven strategies that make success far more likely. Source: Kent Sasse M.D. author of Doctor’s Orders (https://amzn.to/48AhFFm) PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something SHOPIFY: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 03 Jan 2026 - 1351 - How Self Talk Can Sabotage You & Questioning What’s “Normal”
Your mind wanders — that’s normal. But letting it drift too much may come at a cost. Research shows that frequent mind-wandering can make you less happy, less focused, and more stressed than you realize. This episode begins with why an unfocused mind can quietly work against you. http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/11/101111141759.htm You talk to yourself constantly — and much of that inner dialogue is critical, harsh, and unhelpful. The good news is that voice can be changed. Dr. Rachel Goldsmith Turow explains how self-talk shapes how you think, feel, and act — and why learning to speak to yourself with more kindness can be life-changing. Rachel is a psychotherapist, research scientist, adjunct faculty member at Seattle University, and author of The Self-Talk Workout: Six Science-Backed Strategies to Dissolve Self-Criticism and Transform the Voice in Your Head. (https://amzn.to/3L6H5Sq) Rachel also mentions a free UCLA course on mindfulness from the Mindful Awareness Research Center, which you can find here: https://www.uclahealth.org/programs/marc Just because something is considered normal doesn’t mean it’s healthy — or even right. That’s the core message from Dr. Gabor Maté, an acclaimed physician and author of The Myth of Normal (https://amzn.to/3lcqW3i). Many common practices in parenting, work, and society are accepted simply because they’re familiar. Gabor challenges us to question those assumptions and rethink what “normal” really means. And finally, we’ve all encountered people who dominate conversations by talking endlessly about themselves. If you ever get the chance to speak, there’s a surprisingly effective phrase you can use to steer the conversation — or end it altogether. https://www.uexpress.com/life/miss-manners/2014/09/02 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something SHOPIFY: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 01 Jan 2026 - 1350 - Why People Do or Don’t Like You & The Power of Asking for Help
When you watch a great dancer, what separates them from everyone else isn’t strength, flexibility, or even rhythm — it’s one specific part of the body most people never think about. This episode begins with what it is and why it matters so much. https://www.nature.com/articles/srep42435 Why do some people seem instantly likable while others struggle to connect? There’s real science behind first impressions, and small behaviors can make a big difference — for better or worse. Nicholas Boothman joins me to explain what makes people warm up to you quickly and what quietly turns them off. He is author of How to Make People Like You in 90 Seconds or Less (https://amzn.to/3RVLybP). Asking for help sounds simple — but for many people, it’s surprisingly difficult. We worry it makes us look weak or incapable. In reality, asking can make you stronger, more effective, and even more likable. Wayne Baker explains why people actually want to help — but only if you ask. Wayne is Professor of Business Administration and Faculty Director of the Center for Positive Organizations at the University of Michigan Ross School of Business and author of All You Have to Do is Ask (https://amzn.to/2VMts12) Vitamin C doesn’t do much to prevent or cure the common cold — but it does have a proven effect on another everyday problem many of us face. This episode wraps up with what vitamin C really helps and why it works. https://www.psychologytoday.com/articles/200304/vitamin-c-stress-buster PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something SHOPIFY: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 29 Dec 2025 - 1349 - How Much of “You” is Heredity? & Martin Cooper: The Father of the Cellphone - SYSK Choice
There is a three-letter word in the English language that holds more meanings than any other word. You’ve probably said it several times today without realizing how complex it really is. This episode begins with the surprising story behind that word. https://www.rd.com/article/most-complicated-word-in-english/ How much of who you are comes from your genes — and how much comes from the home you grew up in? Heredity is powerful, but also widely misunderstood. Some traits truly are inherited, while others only seem hereditary because families share environments, habits, and experiences. Carl Zimmer joins me to untangle the science. He writes for The New York Times and is author of She Has Her Mother’s Laugh: The Powers, Perversions and Potential of Heredity (https://amzn.to/2IG8KKR) Do you know who made the very first cellphone call? You’re about to hear directly from him. Martin Cooper — often called the father of the cellphone — helped pioneer the entire foundation of cellular technology during his time at Motorola. He shares the story behind that historic first call and offers insight into how mobile technology will continue to transform our lives. Martin is author of Cutting the Cord: The Cell Phone Has Transformed Humanity (https://amzn.to/38aXwIV). Sneakers are now everyday footwear, but they weren’t always. They began as specialized athletic shoes and took decades to become the cultural staple we know today. This episode wraps up with a look at the surprising history of sneakers and how they finally crossed over into mainstream life. https://www.factmonster.com/culture-entertainment/fashion/history-sneakers PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. SHOPIFY: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 27 Dec 2025 - 1348 - The Extraordinary Power of Solitude & Christmas Mysteries Revealed
Why do we say Merry Christmas instead of Happy Christmas? The phrase has a surprisingly rich past, shaped by culture, language, and holiday tradition. This episode begins with where “merry” came from and why it stuck. https://time.com/6240140/why-we-say-merry-christmas-traditions/ Being alone isn’t the same as being lonely. In fact, choosing solitude can offer profound psychological and emotional benefits. Robert J. Coplan joins me to explain why. He has spent more than three decades studying the upside of time alone. Robert is a psychologist, researcher, teacher, and author of The Joy of Solitude: How to Reconnect with Yourself in an Overconnected World. (https://amzn.to/3KX25NE) Christmas traditions evolve far more than we realize — from how we celebrate to who we imagine Santa to be. The Santa Claus of today looks very different from his earlier counterparts, and the holiday itself has gone through dramatic shifts over time. Joe Biel, founder and CEO of Microcosm Publishing and author of A People's Guide to Santa Claus: The Secret History of Christmas, from Saint Nick to Krampus and Yule (https://amzn.to/48MTN2J) joins me to explore these surprising transformations. Owning a pet can actually make you more attractive — and not just because pets are cute. Research shows people form quick judgments about how you treat your dog or cat, and that can sway romantic interest. We look at who benefits most and what’s really going on. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-12-23/single-men-owning-a-dog-attracts-women-study/7051024 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. SHOPIFY: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 25 Dec 2025 - 1347 - The Real Stories Behind Christmas Traditions and Songs - Holiday Bonus Episode
Every December, millions of people around the world track Santa’s journey in real time using the NORAD Santa Tracker. But why is a military defense organization keeping tabs on Santa Claus in the first place? This bonus holiday episode begins with the surprisingly charming and accidental origin of that tradition. https://www.noradsanta.org/en/about/ Why do people kiss under the mistletoe? Why do we decorate Christmas trees with ornaments? And how did Jingle Bells — a song originally written for Thanksgiving — become one of the most popular Christmas songs of all time? Ace Collins joins me to share the fascinating stories behind many of our favorite Christmas traditions and songs. Ace is author of Stories Behind the Great Traditions of Christmas (https://amzn.to/2QfN1NA) and Stories Behind the Best Loved Songs of Christmas (https://amzn.to/2Up4wtg). And if you put up a real Christmas tree, there’s a very good chance you’re making a common mistake before it ever goes into the stand. We wrap up with some simple but important tips that will help keep your tree fresher, safer, and better-looking throughout the rest of holiday season. https://homegrown.extension.ncsu.edu/2019/12/05/caring-for-your-christmas-tree Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 23 Dec 2025 - 1346 - What Makes a Hit Song & Why You Never See the Same Rainbow Twice
If you fall short on sleep, can you really “catch up” the next night? Many people think so — but our bodies don’t quite work that way. This episode begins with what science says about recovering from poor sleep and how to optimize deep sleep when your schedule gets disrupted. https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a40511210/deep-sleep/ What makes a song a hit? Trends, personal taste, timing, and luck all play a role — but today, technology shapes popular music more than ever. From how songs are created to how they spread, the path to a hit is constantly evolving. Chris Dalls Riva joins me to unpack it all. He’s Senior Product Manager at Audiomack, a musician and writer, creator of the newsletter Can’t Get Much Higher, and author of Uncharted Territory: What Numbers Tell Us About the Biggest Hit Songs and Ourselves. (https://amzn.to/4pODklu). All kinds of things can be explained by math – from the beauty of a rainbow to the incredible pattern of sunflower seeds to why we have some left-handed people but not too many. Joining me to drill into the numbers on all this is Eddie Woo. He is the head mathematics teacher at Cherrybrook Technology High School in Sydney, Australia. In 2012, he began recording his lessons and posting them on YouTube and created Wootube https://misterwootube.com/ which has more than 600,000 subscribers and over 33 million views. He’s also author of It’s a Numberful World: How Math Is Hiding Everywhere (https://amzn.to/3KOHPOb). There are 12 core workplace skills that shape how well we perform — and everyone has strengths and weaknesses across them. Understanding yours can make a big difference in how you work and how others work with you. Insights come from Chuck Martin, author of Smarts.(https://amzn.to/3KzlaWc) PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. SHOPIFY: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 22 Dec 2025 - 1345 - The New Science of Living Longer & How to Master the Fear of Being Judged - SYSK Choice
Sometimes the perfect words show up when you need them most. We start with a surprisingly powerful bit of holiday inspiration from Mr. Rogers — a reminder of kindness and humanity that still resonates today. Source: The World According to Mr. Rogers (https://amzn.to/3RKWfzC) Science is completely rethinking what it means to grow old. It’s not just about adding years — it’s about adding healthy years. And while diet and exercise play their part, researchers are uncovering far more advanced ways to slow aging at a cellular level. Some of the most intriguing experiments can literally make worms appear younger, think better, and live twice as long. Coleen Murphy, professor at Princeton University and Director of Princeton’s Glenn Foundation for Research on Aging, explains where longevity science is heading and what it may one day mean for us. She is author of How We Age: The Science of Longevity (https://amzn.to/3GKDKF5). Most of us have avoided doing something — trying out, speaking up, taking a shot — because we feared what other people might think. That fear is powerful, and it holds people back in ways we rarely acknowledge. High-performance psychologist Michael Gervais joins me to explain why this fear is so universal, how it shapes everyday decisions, and what we can do to break free from it. He is host of the Finding Mastery podcast (https://findingmastery.com/podcasts/) and author of The First Rule of Mastery: Stop Worrying about What People Think of You. (https://amzn.to/3RtsDoW). With the new year approaching, many people start thinking about career moves. We wrap up with the personality traits employers value most — qualities that often matter more than experience or credentials. Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/meghancasserly/2012/10/04/top-five-personality-traits-employers-hire-most/ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! AURA FRAMES: Visit https://AuraFrames.com and get $45 off Aura's best selling Carver Mat frames by using promo code SOMETHING at checkout. INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! DELL: Your new Dell PC with Intel Core Ultra helps you handle a lotwhen your holiday to-dos get to be…a lot.Shop now at: https://Dell.com/deals AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. SHOPIFY: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 20 Dec 2025 - 1344 - The Science of Memory Manipulation & Why Wildlife is Invading Neighborhoods
Christmas tree fires are frightening, but they’re not the leading cause of house fires in the U.S. What’s surprising is how many fires start from everyday habits and household choices most people never think twice about. This episode begins with a look at several common yet overlooked causes of home fires. Source: https://www.bobvila.com/articles/fire-safety/#.Viz3ILerTIU We alter our own memories far more than we realize. We forget details, highlight the good parts, and unintentionally distort events over time. Now scientists are exploring how to deliberately modify specific memories — softening painful recollections and strengthening positive ones. Steve Ramirez explains how memory really works and where this groundbreaking research is headed. He is an associate professor of psychological and brain sciences at Boston University, a TED speaker, and author of How to Change a Memory: One Neuroscientist’s Quest to Alter the Past (https://amzn.to/3KFiLJp). Wildlife encounters seem to be increasing — bears on porches, coyotes in yards, bobcats strolling down suburban streets. Are these animals getting more comfortable with humans? Are we building into their territory? And what should you actually do during a close encounter? Randi Minetor, author of more than 90 books including The Bear at the Bird Feeder: Why We're Seeing More Wild Animals in Our Neighborhoods and How We Can Live in Harmony with Them (https://amzn.to/4pHy5UM), offers insight and practical advice. Seeing flashing police lights in your rearview mirror is enough to make anyone nervous. Once you’re pulled over, what should you do — and just as important, what should you not do — when the officer approaches your window? We wrap up with key tips to help keep the encounter calm and trouble-free. Source: https://www.aamva.org/law-enforcement/what-to-do-when-stopped-by-law-enforcement PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! AURA FRAMES: Visit https://AuraFrames.com and get $45 off Aura's best selling Carver Mat frames by using promo code SOMETHING at checkout. INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! DELL: Your new Dell PC with Intel Core Ultra helps you handle a lotwhen your holiday to-dos get to be…a lot.Shop now at: https://Dell.com/deals AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. SHOPIFY: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 18 Dec 2025 - 1343 - True Stories Behind Christmas Songs & Dangerous Decorations- Bonus Holiday Episode
Christmas decorations are meant to be cheerful — but some have been anything but. Over the years, certain holiday decorations have turned out to be creepy, hazardous, and even deadly. This episode begins with some of the strangest and most dangerous examples. https://www.epa.gov/radtown/radioactivity-antiques?utm Many classic Christmas songs have surprising backstories. Brenda Lee was only 13 when she recorded Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree. Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas was tossed in the trash before becoming a holiday staple. Music journalist Annie Zaleski joins me to share these and many other stories. She is author of This Is Christmas, Song by Song: The Stories Behind 100 Holiday Hits (https://amzn.to/3ZomPBn). There’s a lot of myth and speculation surrounding The Twelve Days of Christmas. We take a closer look at where the song came from, what it was really about, and how much all those gifts would actually cost if you bought them today. https://www.smithsonianmag.com/smart-news/12-facts-about-12-days-christmas-180967569/ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! AURA FRAMES: Visit https://AuraFrames.com and get $45 off Aura's best selling Carver Mat frames by using promo code SOMETHING at checkout. INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! DELL: Your new Dell PC with Intel Core Ultra helps you handle a lotwhen your holiday to-dos get to be…a lot.Shop now at: https://Dell.com/deals AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. SHOPIFY: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 16 Dec 2025 - 1342 - How to Make More Joy and Less Stress For the Holidays & Odd Secrets of Evolution
Some people crave sweets, while others reach for salty snacks — and it’s not just habit. Your flavor preference is shaped by biology and brain chemistry. We begin with a look at what determines whether you’re wired for sugar or salt. Source: https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a19931521/why-some-people-have-a-sweet-tooth/ The holidays promise joy but often deliver stress. We push for perfection, try to meet expectations, and forget that the season is really about connection — not flawless decorations or perfect moments. Psychotherapist Niro Feliciano shares some powerful advice for a healthier, calmer holiday season. Niro appears regularly on the TODAY show, writes the “Is This Normal?” column for Today.com, and is the author of All Is Calmish: How to Feel Less Frantic and More Festive During the Holidays (https://amzn.to/48qLdGM). Animals often behave in strange ways — and those quirks almost always trace back to evolution. From dogs and cats to bees and humans, behavior is shaped by survival. David Stipp, former staff reporter at The Wall Street Journal and senior writer at Fortune, explores some of the most surprising evolutionary stories. He’s the author of Why Rats Laugh and Jellyfish Sleep: And Other Enchanting Stories of Evolution.(https://amzn.to/4opHQpE) What word comes to mind when you think of an owl? Wise? While owls are often portrayed as wise in myths and stories – do they actually possess wisdom? Are they smarter than other birds? Listen as I reveal just how smart these wise birds are? https://www.mentalfloss.com/animals/birds/are-owls-actually-wise PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! AURA FRAMES: Visit https://AuraFrames.com and get $45 off Aura's best selling Carver Mat frames by using promo code SOMETHING at checkout. INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! DELL: Your new Dell PC with Intel Core Ultra helps you handle a lotwhen your holiday to-dos get to be…a lot.Shop now at: https://Dell.com/deals AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. SHOPIFY: Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 15 Dec 2025 - 1341 - How to Truly Know People & The Science Behind the Human/Dog Bond-SYSK Choice
Winter brings cold and flu season—and when symptoms first appear, it can be hard to tell which one you’ve got. Fortunately, early signs can offer helpful clues, so you can take the right steps quickly. https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/is-it-cold-flu During the holidays especially, people feel a heightened need for connection. Yet many of us struggle with the social skills that make connection possible—skills like how to be a great conversationalist, how to apologize well, how to end a conversation gracefully, or how to sit with someone who’s suffering. These are the abilities that help us truly see one another. Here to offer insight is David Brooks, New York Times op-ed columnist, contributor to The Atlantic, regular commentator on the PBS Newshour, and author of How To Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen (https://amzn.to/483ge1N). Humans and dogs have lived side-by-side for thousands of years, forming a bond that seems to benefit both. But why does this relationship work so well? Why do so many people say their dog improves their mental and emotional well-being? Jen Golbeck understands this bond better than most. Her writing has appeared in Slate, The Atlantic, Psychology Today, and Wired. She and her husband rescue senior and medically fragile golden retrievers, and she’s author of The Purest Bond: Understanding the Human–Canine Connection (https://amzn.to/3TeMhre). If you’ve ever wondered what your dog thinks of you, you’ll want to hear this. Does putting a wet phone in a bowl of rice actually save it? It might—but there’s an even better method that increases your chances of rescuing your device. https://gizmodo.com/how-to-rescue-wet-gadgets-5951415 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! AURA FRAMES: Visit https://AuraFrames.com and get $45 off Aura's best selling Carver Mat frames by using promo code SOMETHING at checkout. INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DAVID GREENE IS OBSESSED: We love the "David Greene Is Obsessed" podcast! Listen at https://link.mgln.ai/SYSK or wherever you get your podcasts. QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! DELL: It’s time for Cyber Monday at Dell Technologies. Save big on PCs like the Dell 16 Plus featuring Intel® Core™ Ultra processors. Shop now at: https://Dell.com/deals AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 13 Dec 2025 - 1340 - Magic Words That Influence Others & How Feeling Healthy Makes It So
If you’re having a rough day, there’s one oddly specific body part you can wash that appears to boost your mood—even though the science behind it makes little sense. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21707206/ When it comes to communicating, influencing, or connecting with others, some words are far more powerful than others. Jonah Berger, marketing professor at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and author of Magic Words: What to Say to Get Your Way (https://amzn.to/3FctHIE), explains how small shifts in language can drastically change how people respond. Can someone be sick and healthy at the same time? According to Tamen Jadad-Garcia, coauthor of Healthy No Matter What: How Humans are Hardwired to Adapt (https://amzn.to/3L1POoR), the answer is yes. She reveals how adaptation shapes our definition of health and how anyone can improve their health and longevity by changing the way they perceive it. Want to sleep better tonight? There’s a surprisingly simple trick that can dramatically improve the quality of your sleep. https://www.besthealthmag.ca/list/6-ways-to-improve-your-sleep-hygiene/?slide=2#0QEJXJSRL7wAxmyT.97 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! AURA FRAMES: Visit https://AuraFrames.com and get $45 off Aura's best selling Carver Mat frames by using promo code SOMETHING at checkout. INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DAVID GREENE IS OBSESSED: We love the "David Greene Is Obsessed" podcast! Listen at https://link.mgln.ai/SYSK or wherever you get your podcasts. QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! DELL: It’s time for Cyber Monday at Dell Technologies. Save big on PCs like the Dell 16 Plus featuring Intel® Core™ Ultra processors. Shop now at: https://Dell.com/deals AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 11 Dec 2025 - 1339 - Secrets of Christmas Classic Movies & The Curious Story of Eggnog – Bonus Holiday Episode
Eggnog is one of the strangest holiday traditions we have — a creamy mix of eggs, milk, spices, and often a splash of rum. Yet people look forward to it every December. Where did this unusual drink come from, and how did it become tied so closely to Christmas? We start with the surprising history behind this centuries-old holiday concoction. Source: https://time.com/3957265/history-of-eggnog/ Chances are you have a favorite Christmas movie — White Christmas, It’s a Wonderful Life, A Christmas Story, Home Alone, or one of dozens of others that seem to define the season. Film historian Jeremy Arnold, in collaboration with Turner Classic Movies, has chronicled the backstories behind 30 beloved holiday films. He joins me to reveal the little-known details, production tales, and cultural trivia that shaped some of the most iconic Christmas movies ever made. He is author of Christmas in the Movies: 30 Classics To Celebrate the Season (https://amzn.to/3GzDZ3S). If you feel stuffed-up, sneezy, or irritated during the holidays, your Christmas tree may be the culprit. Real trees can carry mold spores and other irritants that trigger allergy-like symptoms. We explore why this happens and what you can do to minimize the problem — without giving up the tree. Source: https://www.entandallergyspecialists.com/uncategorized/can-christmas-trees-cause-allergy-symptoms/ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! AURA FRAMES: Visit https://AuraFrames.com and get $45 off Aura's best selling Carver Mat frames by using promo code SOMETHING at checkout. INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DAVID GREENE IS OBSESSED: We love the "David Greene Is Obsessed" podcast! Listen at https://link.mgln.ai/SYSK or wherever you get your podcasts. QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! DELL: It’s time for Cyber Monday at Dell Technologies. Save big on PCs like the Dell 16 Plus featuring Intel® Core™ Ultra processors. Shop now at: https://Dell.com/deals AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 09 Dec 2025 - 1338 - The Untold Story of the Christmas Tree & The New Rules of Eating Out
A yawn spreads quickly. You see someone yawn, you think about yawning, or you even read the word “yawn”—and suddenly you’re doing it too. This episode begins by looking at why yawning is so contagious, what theories actually hold up, and what science still can’t explain. https://www.livescience.com/human-behavior/why-is-yawning-contagious A Christmas tree seems like such a natural part of the holiday season, but the tradition behind it is rich, surprising, and deeply woven into American history. Why an evergreen? Where did the practice originate? How do they select the giant tree for Rockefeller Center every year? Here to explain the story and the symbolism behind the Christmas tree is Trent Preszler, professor of Applied Economics and Management at Cornell University and author of the book Evergreen: The Trees That Shaped America. (https://amzn.to/43NUVSj). Dining out today is nothing like it was just a few years ago. Prices are higher, tipping culture has shifted, customer expectations are changing, and restaurants face tighter margins than ever. Adam Reiner joins me with a behind-the-scenes look at what’s really happening in the industry and offers practical advice for getting the best experience when you eat out. Adam is a food writer whose work has appeared in Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and New York Magazine, and he’s author of The New Rules of Dining Out (https://amzn.to/3Xhg0kf). You would think eating food should satisfy you—yet some foods do the opposite. Highly processed foods digest so quickly and trigger such different responses in your body that they can actually leave you hungrier. I explain what the science shows and why these foods can lead to overeating. https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/eating-highly-processed-foods-linked-weight-gain PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! AURA FRAMES: Visit https://AuraFrames.com and get $45 off Aura's best selling Carver Mat frames by using promo code SOMETHING at checkout. INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DAVID GREENE IS OBSESSED: We love the "David Greene Is Obsessed" podcast! Listen at https://link.mgln.ai/SYSK or wherever you get your podcasts. QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! DELL: It’s time for Cyber Monday at Dell Technologies. Save big on PCs like the Dell 16 Plus featuring Intel® Core™ Ultra processors. Shop now at: https://Dell.com/deals AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 08 Dec 2025 - 1337 - Why Audiences Behave the Way They Do & The Hidden Benefits of Uncertainty - SYSK Choice
Who doesn’t love the smell of a fresh Christmas tree? That unmistakable pine scent isn’t just nostalgic — it may actually have measurable benefits. We start this episode with a look at why the aroma of pine can lift your mood, help you relax, and enhance your holiday season. Source: https://www.foxnews.com/health/the-healing-power-of-pine Audiences are remarkable. Whether it’s a play, a movie, or a concert, something special happens when people gather — a shared energy that shapes how we feel and how performers respond. But how did audiences become “a thing”? Why do we applaud? And how did we learn the unspoken rules of audience behavior? Theatre historian Robert Viagas, Editor-in-Chief of Encore Monthly and longtime Playbill veteran, joins me to explore the fascinating evolution of audiences. He’s author of Right This Way: A History of the Audience. (https://amzn.to/46F8lOS) We love certainty — confident leaders, clear answers, and firm decisions. Yet uncertainty can be surprisingly powerful. Journalist Maggie Jackson explains how not knowing can spark curiosity, deepen thinking, and ultimately lead to better choices. Her work has appeared in The New York Times, Business Week, Vanity Fair, and Wired.com. She’s the author of Uncertain: The Wisdom and Wonder of Being Unsure. (https://amzn.to/3Gli42b) Want to get more done in less time? We wrap up with three simple but highly effective productivity techniques from expert Don Wetmore that can help streamline your day and boost your efficiency. Source: https://productivity-institute.com/ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! AURA FRAMES: Visit https://AuraFrames.com and get $45 off Aura's best selling Carver Mat frames by using promo code SOMETHING at checkout. DAVID GREENE IS OBSESSED: We love the "David Greene Is Obsessed" podcast! Listen at https://link.mgln.ai/SYSK or wherever you get your podcasts. QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! DELL: It’s time for Cyber Monday at Dell Technologies. Save big on PCs like the Dell 16 Plus featuring Intel® Core™ Ultra processors. Shop now at: https://Dell.com/deals AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 06 Dec 2025 - 1336 - Our Obsession with Aliens & The Dangers of Loneliness and Isolation
When you’re asked to “sign in blue or black ink,” is that actually the law — or just an outdated rule we all obey? We begin with the surprising truth about which ink colors really matter when you’re signing checks, contracts, or legal documents. Source: https://www.investopedia.com/articles/personal-finance/061314/dont-sign-legal-pitfalls-signatures.asp Why are humans endlessly fascinated by aliens? For thousands of years, every culture has looked to the sky and wondered who—or what—might be out there. Today, that fascination fuels movies, conspiracy theories, and serious scientific searches for extraterrestrial life. Science journalist Becky Ferreira, contributor to NPR’s Science Friday, The New York Times, Wired, and Popular Science, joins me to explain why our obsession runs so deep. She’s the author of First Contact: The Story Of Our Obsession with Aliens.(https://amzn.to/43HzgLp). Loneliness is rising, especially during the holidays. And the science is clear — friendships and social ties aren’t just emotionally important; they directly affect your longevity, immune system, and overall health. Ken Stern, founder of the Longevity Project, former CEO of NPR, and author of Healthy to 100: How Strong Social Ties Lead to Long Lives (https://amzn.to/4ranyTB) , reveals why social connection is essential and how to build it, even if it feels hard. Finally, is sitting with your legs crossed actually bad for you? You’ve probably heard it causes varicose veins or circulatory issues — but is that true? We share what a top vascular surgeon says about the real risks (and the myths). Source: https://www.medicaldaily.com/no-sitting-your-legs-crossed-wont-harm-you-heres-how-seated-posture-affecting-your-357926 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! AURA FRAMES: Visit https://AuraFrames.com and get $45 off Aura's best selling Carver Mat frames by using promo code SOMETHING at checkout. DAVID GREENE IS OBSESSED: We love the "David Greene Is Obsessed" podcast! Listen at https://link.mgln.ai/SYSK or wherever you get your podcasts. QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! DELL: It’s time for Cyber Monday at Dell Technologies. Save big on PCs like the Dell 16 Plus featuring Intel® Core™ Ultra processors. Shop now at: https://Dell.com/deals AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 04 Dec 2025 - 1335 - Origins of the Office Christmas Party & Pro Advice for Great Holiday Videos – Bonus Holiday Episode
There was a time when the office Christmas party was the highlight of the corporate year — big budgets, elaborate celebrations, and stories that still get whispered decades later. But how did this tradition start? Who decided employers should host a holiday bash in the first place? This special holiday bonus episode looks at the surprising origins of the office Christmas party and why it evolved into the event it is today - usually a bit tamer and more subdued. That's what we explore as we kick off this special holiday bonus episode. https://www.ncnewsonline.com/archives/workplace-the-wild-history-of-holiday-office-parties/article_4895ce64-538c-59ce-810f-1f37fa71b816.html Every holiday season, people shoot hours of video — and most of it ends up dull, shaky, or misses the magic entirely. Yet your phone has the power to capture truly great moments if you know a few simple techniques. Steve Stockman joins me to explain how to get crisp, compelling holiday video using equipment you already own. Steve has directed hundreds of TV commercials and shows and created the popular video course and bestselling book, How To Shoot Video That Doesn’t Suck (https://amzn.to/46Q7E5y). Steve’s video course: https://stevestockman.com/ And if holiday shopping leaves you exhausted before you ever set foot in a store, it might not be the crowds — it’s the parking. You’ll hear a simple strategy that makes finding a spot much less stressful so the whole trip is more enjoyable. https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424052970204026804577098451316357124 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS AURA FRAMES: Visit https://AuraFrames.com and get $45 off Aura's best selling Carver Mat frames by using promo code SOMETHING at checkout. DAVID GREENE IS OBSESSED: We love the "David Greene Is Obsessed" podcast! Listen at https://link.mgln.ai/SYSK or wherever you get your podcasts. QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! DELL: It’s time for Cyber Monday at Dell Technologies. Save big on PCs like the Dell 16 Plus featuring Intel® Core™ Ultra processors. Shop now at: https://Dell.com/deals AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 02 Dec 2025 - 1334 - The Psychology of Being “Played for a Sucker” & Food Myths That Won’t Die
Ever wonder why some people seem naturally gifted at music? It turns out your personality may have more to do with musical ability than you think. This episode begins with research identifying which personality traits actually predict innate musical potential — and which ones don’t. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/10/151013135831.htm Are we too worried about getting scammed? Most of us would rather lose money through an honest mistake than fall victim to a con — and that hyper-vigilance affects far more of our decision-making than we realize. My guest, Tess Wilkinson-Ryan, a University of Pennsylvania law professor and psychologist, argues that our fear of “being the sucker” often makes us worse off. She is the author of Fool Proof: How Fear of Playing the Sucker Shapes Our Selves and the Social Order–And What We Can Do About It (https://amzn.to/3jMqrfo). She explains why this deeply human fear is so powerful — and how putting it in perspective can make us happier, more confident, and even more generous. Food brings out some strong and unusual beliefs. Some people insist eggplant is dangerous… others worry that burnt toast or charred meat causes cancer… and many assume artificial sweeteners wreak havoc on gut bacteria. To separate fact from fiction, I speak with Dr. Joe Schwarcz, Director of McGill University’s Office for Science and Society and author of 19 books, including his latest, Better Not Burn Your Toast: The Science of Food and Health (https://amzn.to/3JMmYe3). He breaks down what’s real, what’s rumor, and what you actually need to know to eat smarter. Finally, what’s the right way to stay warm in cold weather? Is it true that you lose most of your body heat through your head? We look at the real science of staying warm, avoiding frostbite, and protecting yourself when temperatures drop. https://www.heart.org/en/news/2025/01/03/what-cold-weather-does-to-the-body-and-how-to-protect-yourself-this-winter PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! AURA FRAMES: Visit https://AuraFrames.com and get $45 off Aura's best selling Carver Mat frames by using promo code SOMETHING at checkout. DAVID GREENE IS OBSESSED: We love the "David Greene Is Obsessed" podcast! Listen at https://link.mgln.ai/SYSK or wherever you get your podcasts. QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! DELL: It’s time for Cyber Monday at Dell Technologies. Save big on PCs like the Dell 16 Plus featuring Intel® Core™ Ultra processors. Shop now at: https://Dell.com/deals AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 01 Dec 2025 - 1333 - The Powerful Benefits of Nostalgia & Why Games Are More Than Just Fun - SYSK Choice
Does your place in the family — firstborn, middle child, or youngest — really shape who you are? Birth-order theory has been debated for decades. This episode begins by exploring what science actually says about how sibling order affects personality, achievement, and relationships. https://psychcentral.com/blog/birth-order-and-personality#birth-order-and-personality Around the holiday season, many of us feel a wave of nostalgia — longing for people, places, and moments from the past. Once thought of as a sign of weakness, nostalgia is now proven to be a powerful source of emotional strength and meaning. Psychologist Clay Routledge, PhD, explains how revisiting fond memories can improve mood, boost motivation, and even help you plan a better future. Clay is author of Past Forward: How Nostalgia Can Help You Live a More Meaningful Life. (https://amzn.to/3uC1sAs). Why do humans love to play games — from chess to Monopoly? According to mathematician Marcus du Sautoy, games are far more than fun diversions; they’re a reflection of human creativity, problem-solving, and evolution itself. Marcus, professor of mathematics at Oxford and author of Around the World in Eighty Games (https://amzn.to/3MV5Lxm), reveals what games can teach us about life, luck, and strategy — and why Monopoly may be the most misunderstood game of all. And if you share your home with a cat this holiday season, you know what happens when feline meets Christmas tree. Don’t worry — there’s a fix. I’ll share a few clever tricks (involving tin foil and double-sided tape) to keep your tree upright and your cat entertained elsewhere. https://www.petmd.com/cat/care/how-keep-cats-out-christmas-tree PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! AURA FRAMES: Visit https://AuraFrames.com and get $45 off Aura's best selling Carver Mat frames by using promo code SOMETHING at checkout! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! DELL: It’s time for Black Friday at Dell Technologies. Save big on PCs like the Dell 16 Plus featuring Intel® Core™ Ultra processors. Shop now at: https://Dell.com/deals AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 29 Nov 2025 - 1332 - What Awe and Wonder Do to Your Brain & Why Your Attention Span Is Shrinking
When you’re congested with a cold or flu, getting a good night’s sleep can feel impossible. This episode begins with smart, science-backed ways to clear your sinuses so you can breathe easier and finally get some much needed rest. https://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/sleep-better-cold-flu Few emotions are as powerful — or as good for you — as awe. That feeling of wonder you get when gazing at the stars, hearing incredible music, or standing in front of something vast and beautiful can actually improve your physical and mental health. My guest Dacher Keltner, professor of psychology at UC Berkeley and author of Awe: The New Science of Everyday Wonder and How It Can Transform Your Life (https://amzn.to/3YYVMvh), explains the remarkable science behind awe — and how to experience more of it every day. Explore the site Dacher references: https://ggia.berkeley.edu/ Our attention spans are shrinking — and it’s taking a toll on our judgment, productivity, and happiness. Psychologist Gloria Mark, professor at UC Irvine and author of Attention Span: A Groundbreaking Way to Restore Balance, Happiness and Productivity (https://amzn.to/3XmFCL4), reveals why our brains struggle to stay focused in a world full of distractions — and how to take back control. And finally: did you know the color of your plate can change how your food tastes? Listen as I reveal the fascinating link between color and flavor perception. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/51841254 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! AURA FRAMES: Visit https://AuraFrames.com and get $45 off Aura's best selling Carver Mat frames by using promo code SOMETHING at checkout! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! DELL: It’s time for Black Friday at Dell Technologies. Save big on PCs like the Dell 16 Plus featuring Intel® Core™ Ultra processors. Shop now at: https://Dell.com/deals AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 27 Nov 2025 - 1331 - Thanksgiving Myths, Foods & Forgotten Traditions- Bonus Holiday Episode
Ever wonder what was actually served at the very first Thanksgiving? Much of what we learned in school doesn’t hold up. In this special bonus holiday episode, we unpack some of the most surprising — and misunderstood — moments in Thanksgiving history. We start with a beloved modern ritual: the presidential turkey pardon. It’s a quirky White House tradition with roots that go all the way back to the 1800s. I reveal how this annual ceremony really began and why it stuck. https://www.whitehousehistory.org/questions/which-president-started-the-tradition-of-pardoning-the-thanksgiving-turkey Then we dive into the truth behind that famous 1621 feast shared by the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag. What did they actually eat? And what parts of our holiday table didn’t appear until centuries later? My guest Leslie Landrigan, author of Historic Thanksgiving Foods: And the People who Cooked Them, 1607 to 1955 (https://amzn.to/4i32IkP), helps untangle myth from history. Finally, why are we talking about “Jingle Bells” in a Thanksgiving episode? Because the song wasn’t written for Christmas at all — it was a Thanksgiving tune. I share the surprising backstory behind this holiday crossover classic. https://www.bu.edu/articles/2016/jingle-bells-history/ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! AURA FRAMES: Visit https://AuraFrames.com and get $45 off Aura's best selling Carver Mat frames by using promo code SOMETHING at checkout! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! DELL: It’s time for Black Friday at Dell Technologies. Save big on PCs like the Dell 16 Plus featuring Intel® Core™ Ultra processors. Shop now at: https://Dell.com/deals AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 25 Nov 2025 - 1330 - The World’s Greatest Mentalist Shares His Secrets & The Surprising Science of Pets
When you look up information online, you may find that it’s harder to remember later. It’s a frequent phenomenon called digital amnesia. This episode begins by explaining why it happens so often — and what you can do about it. https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/public-health/articles/10.3389/fpubh.2024.1332030/full Oz Pearlman is probably the world’s greatest mentalist. He doesn’t claim to read minds — he reads people. Recently featured on 60 Minutes, topping bestseller lists, and even guessing Joe Rogan’s ATM PIN on his podcast, Oz brings his uncanny intuition to Something You Should Know. In our conversation, he even guesses something from my childhood he couldn’t possibly know. He also reveals what he’s learned about success, handling rejection, and making powerful impressions. His book is Read Your Mind: Proven Habits for Success from the World’s Greatest Mentalist. (https://amzn.to/47MP9S7) Of all creatures on Earth, humans are the only ones who keep pets — and love them like family. So how did this relationship begin? Why do some people choose exotic pets? And what are the real benefits of pet ownership for both human and animal? Science broadcaster Jay Ingram, host of two national science programs in Canada and author of twenty books, joins me to explore the fascinating science behind our bond with pets. His latest book is The Science of Pets. (https://amzn.to/43ilq1S). Walking is one of the simplest ways to stay healthy, but here’s a twist: you can burn more calories simply by walking differently. Listen as I explain how changing your pace can make every step count. https://engineering.osu.edu/news/2015/10/new-study-shows-varying-walking-pace-burns-more-calories?utm PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! AURA FRAMES: Visit https://AuraFrames.com and get $45 off Aura's best selling Carver Mat frames by using promo code SOMETHING at checkout! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! DELL: It’s time for Black Friday at Dell Technologies. Save big on PCs like the Dell 16 Plus featuring Intel® Core™ Ultra processors. Shop now at: https://Dell.com/deals AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 24 Nov 2025 - 1329 - Why Success is Never Quite Good Enough & How Evolution Gave Us Free Will - SYSK Choice
Texting and email may be convenient, but sometimes a phone call is the best way to make a real connection. So how do you ensure the person actually calls you back? I’ll reveal a few clever tricks — backed by communication science — that can dramatically increase your chances. Source: Bill Jensen, author of Simplicity Survival Handbook (https://amzn.to/3MMDmt7) Have you ever achieved something big… only to feel restless right after? That’s the strange emotional hangover of success — what my guest Laura Gassner Otting calls Wonderhell. It’s that moment when your achievement opens the door to an even bigger dream — and with it, pressure, doubt, and possibility. Laura, frequent guest on Good Morning America, The Today Show, and Harvard Business Review, joins me to unpack this fascinating space between accomplishment and ambition from her book Wonderhell: Why Success Doesn’t Feel Like It Should and What to Do About It (https://amzn.to/40EycFi). Do we truly have free will — or are all our choices predetermined by biology and circumstance? Some scientists say free will is an illusion. Others, like Kevin Mitchell, argue that evolution gave us control over our decisions. Kevin, associate professor of genetics and neuroscience at Trinity College Dublin and author of Free Agents: How Evolution Gave Us Free Will (https://amzn.to/49vncy2), joins me to explore what neuroscience, genetics, and philosophy reveal about human choice — and why it matters for everything from morality to justice. (For the counterargument, check out my earlier conversation with Robert Sapolsky: https://www.somethingyoushouldknow.net/566-do-we-really-have-free-will-how-to-handle-rejection-better/) And finally — you’ve probably heard people say, “That’s a whole nother story.” But is nother even a real word? The answer is surprisingly nuanced. https://www.merriam-webster.com/grammar/whole-nother PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! DELL: It’s time for Black Friday at Dell Technologies. Save big on PCs like the Dell 16 Plus featuring Intel® Core™ Ultra processors. Shop now at: https://Dell.com/deals NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 22 Nov 2025 - 1328 - The Surprising Power of Hope & The Science of Your Sixth Sense
Some cars have gullwing doors, like the DeLorean in Back to the Future. They look amazing — but why don’t more cars have them? As you’ll hear, there are several surprising (and practical) reasons why this futuristic design never became mainstream and probably never will. https://www.dacemotorgroup.co.uk/blog/the-history-of-gullwing-doors-and-why-they-were-so-rare If you’ve ever felt truly hopeless, you already understand the extraordinary power of hope — because when it’s gone, everything changes. Hope gives us direction, energy, and purpose. It’s what gets us up in the morning and helps us persevere through uncertainty. Psychologist and researcher Dr. Julia Garcia, author of The 5 Habits of Hope: Stories and Strategies to Help You Find Your Way (https://amzn.to/4hKtWNd), joins me to explore how hope works in the brain, how to build more of it in your life, and why it’s one of the most powerful forces in human psychology. You have a sixth sense — and it’s not psychic. It’s called interoception, your ability to sense what’s happening inside your body. Hunger, thirst, fatigue, and even intuition are all part of this hidden system that connects body and mind. Science journalist Caroline Williams, author of Inner Sense: How the New Science of Interoception Can Revolutionize Your Health (https://amzn.to/4oN8Boo), reveals what researchers are discovering about this remarkable sense — and how tuning into it can improve your health, focus, and emotional well-being. And finally, if you’ve ever had a fruit fly land in your glass of wine, you know how fast they can find you — and ruin a drink. But how do they track it down so quickly, and why does even one tiny fly spoil the whole glass? The answer is both fascinating and a little gross. https://www.livescience.com/7256-fruit-flies-find-wine.html?utm PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! DELL: It’s time for Black Friday at Dell Technologies. Save big on PCs like the Dell 16 Plus featuring Intel® Core™ Ultra processors. Shop now at: https://Dell.com/deals NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 20 Nov 2025 - 1327 - BONUS: You Might Also Like: David Greene is Obsessed
Today we are sharing a special episode of the new podcast: David Greene Is Obsessed. David is one of America’s most familiar voices and longtime co-host of NPR’s Morning Edition. On the show, he seeks out obsessives of all kinds, while unpacking his own fixations. You’ll hear actor David Arquette discuss his love for Bozo the Clown; Paula Poundstone on her house full of cats; celebrity chef Michael Symon explain why he just can’t quit the Cleveland Browns, even though they often make him miserable; and so much more. It’s pop psychology disguised as conversations with the world’s most fascinating people. In this episode, comedian, actress, and podcast host Tig Notaro explains why she quit eating meat almost a decade ago, and hasn't looked back. Plus, she shares a really good potato recipe. Listen to David Greene Is Obsessed at https://link.mgln.ai/SYSK Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 18 Nov 2025 - 1326 - The Psychology of Brand Loyalty & The Strange History of Everyday Words
Ever stepped into an elevator and wondered, what if the cable snapped? It’s a surprisingly common fear — but is it justified? I’ll reveal the truth about elevator safety, how often accidents really happen, and exactly what to do if the unthinkable occurred. https://www.businessinsider.com/survive-elevator-crash-fall-2015-9 Why do so many people swear by Apple, Starbucks, or Amazon? What makes certain brands almost irresistible? Behavioral science has the answer. My guest Michael Aaron Flicker — entrepreneur, founder of the Consumer Behavior Lab, and author of Hacking the Human Mind: The Behavioral Science Secrets Behind 17 of the World’s Best Brands (https://amzn.to/4oepxEB) and he explains how brilliant companies use psychology and design to tap into your subconscious desires and shape your buying habits. The English language is full of stories hiding in plain sight. Did you know there are about 20 ways to pronounce the word water? Or that the word silhouette comes from the name of a despised French bureaucrat? Journalist Martha Barnette, co-host of the popular radio show A Way with Words (https://waywordradio.org/) and author of Friends with Words: Adventures in Languageland (https://amzn.to/3WBqeM5), joins me to uncover the delightful, bizarre, and surprising history behind the words we use every day. Next time you notice your grocery store has rearranged everything, that’s no accident. Supermarkets often shift products on purpose to keep you wandering longer — and spending more. I’ll explain the subtle psychological tricks retailers use and how you can outsmart them. https://www.businessthink.unsw.edu.au/articles/supermarket-tricks-cost-of-living PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! DELL: It’s time for Black Friday at Dell Technologies. Save big on PCs like the Dell 16 Plus featuring Intel® Core™ Ultra processors. Shop now at: https://Dell.com/deals NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 17 Nov 2025 - 1325 - The Power of Making Things Simple & How Pockets Changed Everything - SYSK Choice
Most people don’t get enough sleep — and even a small deficit can take a big toll. Just 15 extra minutes a night can boost your health, focus, and mood more than you’d expect. This episode begins with a surprising look at how too little sleep quietly undermines your life — and how a little more can make all the difference. https://www.sleep.com/sleep-health/15-minutes-extra-sleep Simple beats complicated — in business, communication, and life. Yet most of us instinctively make things harder than they need to be. Marketing entrepreneur and educator Ben Guttmann, who’s helped clients from the NFL to Nobel Laureates, reveals why simplicity is the ultimate superpower and how to harness it in your ideas, writing, and daily decisions. He’s the author of Simply Put: Why Clear Messages Win—and How to Design Them (https://amzn.to/3udtVwz). You probably have pockets in nearly everything you wear — and yet, they’re only about 500 years old. Where did they come from? Why are women’s pockets so small? And what do they say about how people have lived through history? Hannah Carlson, a historian of clothing and author of POCKETS: An Intimate History of How We Keep Things Close (https://amzn.to/3SUzmef), reveals the surprisingly political, personal, and practical story of the humble pocket. Finally, anger isn’t always destructive — used wisely, it can be one of your greatest motivators. Research shows that channeling anger toward a meaningful goal can actually help you focus and achieve more. I’ll explain how to tap into the power of anger — without letting it take over. https://www.nbcnews.com/health/feeling-angry-may-help-people-achieve-goals-study-finds-rcna123611 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! AURA FRAMES: For a limited time, visit https://AuraFrames.com and get $45 off Aura’s best-selling Carver Mat frames -named #1 by Wirecutter -by using promo code SOMETHING at checkout INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! DELL: It’s time for Black Friday at Dell Technologies. Save big on PCs like the Dell 16 Plus featuring Intel® Core™ Ultra processors. Shop now at: https://Dell.com/deals NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 15 Nov 2025 - 1324 - Secret Languages We All Speak & Amazing Changes in Nature You Never Knew
Just thinking about itching can make you start to scratch — but there’s a reason for that. Scratching triggers a powerful neurological loop called the itch-scratch cycle, which can actually make the problem worse. Listen as I explain what’s really happening in your brain and skin when that irresistible urge strikes to scratch that itch. https://www.news-medical.net/health/Scratching-the-Surface-Uncovering-the-Neurological-Mystery-of-Itch.aspx? We all speak secret languages — whether we realize it or not. Families, professions, and social groups develop their own slang, codes, and private phrases that only make sense to insiders. From kitchen slang in restaurants and bars to cryptic police radio chatter, these hidden languages are everywhere. My guest Ben Schott, author of Schott's Significa: A Miscellany of Secret Languages (https://amzn.to/3LdTmqg), uncovers where these coded words come from, how they evolve, and what they reveal about belonging and identity. The changing seasons bring obvious signs — leaves turning, snow falling, flowers blooming — but nature also changes in ways most of us never notice. The color of sunsets, the murkiness of rivers, even the speed at which days lengthen or shorten all follow astonishing seasonal patterns. Tristan Gooley, author of The Hidden Seasons: A Calendar of Nature’s Clues (https://amzn.to/4ohNNpu), takes us on a fascinating journey through these overlooked natural shifts and shows how to read the signs of the changing world around us. Finally, the humble banana — praised by some as a perfect health food and shunned by others for its sugar and carbs — gets a scientific verdict. I’ll share what nutrition research really says about bananas and whether you should eat more of them… or less. https://time.com/4017962/banana-nutrition/ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! DELL: It’s time for Black Friday at Dell Technologies. Save big on PCs like the Dell 16 Plus featuring Intel® Core™ Ultra processors. Shop now at: https://Dell.com/deals NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 13 Nov 2025 - 1323 - The Real Story of Thanksgiving - Bonus Holiday Episode
It all started with a colossal Thanksgiving mistake — one that accidentally created an entire industry. The birth of the frozen meal business began with a Thanksgiving blunder. Listen and you’ll hear how that blunder turned into a billion-dollar idea. https://www.housebeautiful.com/lifestyle/a22792044/thanksgiving-fun-facts/ The story of Thanksgiving is full of myths and misconceptions. Much of what we think we know about that first feast — from the turkey to the Pilgrims’ attire — simply isn’t true. Historian Peter Mancall, professor of history and anthropology at the University of Southern California, joins me to reveal the real story behind Thanksgiving: what actually happened, how it evolved into a national holiday, and why it landed on the fourth Thursday in November. Finally, let’s talk about your Thanksgiving table. Chances are there’s at least one dish you eat out of obligation, not enthusiasm. Turns out, you’re not alone. More Americans are swapping out the traditional menu for new favorites — and I’ll tell you what’s replacing turkey in many homes around the country. https://www.housebeautiful.com/lifestyle/a22792044/thanksgiving-fun-facts/ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! DELL: It’s time for Black Friday at Dell Technologies. Save big on PCs like the Dell 16 Plus featuring Intel® Core™ Ultra processors. Shop now at: https://Dell.com/deals NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Wed, 12 Nov 2025 - 1322 - Strange Secrets of the Human Body and Why Your Brain Requires Friends
When you touch someone else’s skin, it often feels softer than your own — but that can’t be true for everyone. What’s really happening is a fascinating illusion rooted in how your brain perceives touch. I’ll explain this strange sensory trick as we open the episode. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4580302/?utm_source=chatgpt.com Your body is filled with mysteries you probably never learned in biology class — like why you get goosebumps, why hiccups happen, or why you unconsciously favor the left side of your face. And why no other creature on Earth can even come close to our ability to throw a ball fast and far. My guest Adam Taor, author of Bodypedia: A Brief Compendium of Human Anatomical Curiosities (https://amzn.to/4hpIEc2), joins me to explore these and other quirky features of the human body. Friendship and social interaction aren’t just nice to have — they’re vital to your health and longevity. Neuroscientist Ben Rein, author of Why Brains Need Friends: The Neuroscience of Social Connection (https://amzn.to/495Nh9p), explains how meaningful connections strengthen the brain, protect against illness, and even extend your life. He also shares surprising insights on why having a pet — or a partner — can have profound benefits for both mind and body. If you’re looking for a simple, science-backed way to lose weight that isn’t just another gimmick, I have one that might surprise you. It’s all about water. Research shows that one glass at the right time can have impressive results. I’ll share the details in the final segment. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/oby.21167 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! DELL: It’s time for Black Friday at Dell Technologies. Save big on PCs like the Dell 16 Plus featuring Intel® Core™ Ultra processors. Shop now at: https://Dell.com/deals NOTION: Notion brings all your notes, docs, and projects into one connected space that just works . It's seamless, flexible, powerful, and actually fun to use! Try Notion, now with Notion Agent, at: https://notion.com/something PLANET VISIONARIES: In partnership with Rolex’s Perpetual Planet Initiative, this… is Planet Visionaries. Listen or watch on Apple, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 10 Nov 2025 - 1321 - The Truth About Popular Food Myths & Modest Inventions That Became Life Changing - SYSK Choice
Ever notice that every restaurant kitchen has a giant exhaust fan above the stove? There’s a reason it’s required by law — and it’s not just about smoke. You probably have one at home too, but chances are you’re not using it nearly enough. Listen as I explain why that little fan plays a surprisingly big role in keeping your home and your health safer. https://polk.ces.ncsu.edu/2023/04/how-and-why-to-use-your-kitchen-exhaust-fan/ “Breakfast is the most important meal of the day.” “A glass of wine keeps your heart healthy.” “Red meat is bad for you.” These are just a few of the food beliefs we’ve heard for years — but are they true? Cardiologist Dr. Christopher Labos, author of Does Coffee Cause Cancer?: And 8 More Myths about the Food We Eat (https://amzn.to/3sjzetM) breaks down the science behind these myths and reveals what’s fact, what’s fiction, and what we still don’t know about the foods we love. Christopher is also co-host of The Body of Evidence podcast https://www.bodyofevidence.ca/ Imagine a world without nails, wheels, or springs — it wouldn’t just look different, it wouldn’t work. These modest inventions quietly built modern civilization. Structural engineer Roma Agrawal, who has designed bridges and skyscrapers, joins me to explain how simple objects have had world-changing impact. She’s the author of Nuts and Bolts: Seven Small Inventions That Changed the World in a Big Way (https://amzn.to/3Sr5cyF). Think you can spot a lie? According to experts, the biggest giveaway isn’t in a person’s body language — it’s in how they tell the story. Listen as I share a fascinating linguistic clue that can help you tell truth from fiction. https://lifehacker.com/true-or-false-pay-attention-to-a-storys-structure-and-5959543 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! ON POINT: We love the On Point podcast! Listen wherever you get your podcasts! https://www.wbur.org/radio/programs/onpoint SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 08 Nov 2025 - 1320 - When Maps Go Wrong & The Science of Everyday Courage
We’ve all done it — used a big fancy word to sound smarter or more impressive. But does it actually work? Research says no. In fact, the secret to sounding intelligent and confident has nothing to do with big words at all. I’ll explain what is far more powerful. https://www.businessinsider.com/use-simple-language-to-sound-smarter-2015-9 Maps are fascinating. Did you know that early maps were not made for navigation at all, and a lot of modern maps are filled with mistakes and distortions that frustrate entire countries? Jay Foreman, co-host of the hit YouTube series Map Men (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLfxy4_sBQdxy3A2lvl-y3qWTeJEbC_QCp) joins me to uncover the strange, surprising, and often controversial world of mapmaking — and why maps still shape how we see the world. Jay is author of the book This Way Up: When Maps Go Wrong (And Why It Matters) (https://amzn.to/49gSlrk). Everyone remembers a time when they wish they had been more courageous. They wish they had spoken up, took a risk, or made a bold move. But what separates courage from recklessness? Harvard Business School professor Ranjay Gulati, author of How to Be Bold: The Surprising Science of Everyday Courage (https://amzn.to/42Tmg52), explains how to tap into genuine courage when it matters most — and why bravery often looks different than you think. Finally, have you ever noticed that almost every zipper in your life works flawlessly? That’s no accident. One company dominates the global zipper market — and their story is a master class in precision, persistence, and quality. Listen as I reveal how this quiet manufacturing giant came to control nearly every zipper on Earth. https://ykkamericas.com/our-history/ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! ON POINT: We love the On Point podcast! Listen wherever you get your podcasts! https://www.wbur.org/radio/programs/onpoint SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 06 Nov 2025 - 1319 - What Wikipedia’s Success Reveals About Trust & Are We All Too Fearful?
When you’re stuck on a multiple-choice question, should you change your answer or trust your gut? Most people swear your first instinct is best — but science says otherwise. Listen as I reveal what research really shows about when to stick — and when to switch. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15898871/ Wikipedia shouldn’t work. It’s built on the idea that anyone, anywhere, can edit their articles. You might think people would sabotage stories all the time. Yet it’s one of the most accurate and trusted sources on the internet. How is that possible? According to Wikipedia founder Jimmy Wales, it all comes down to trust. In this conversation, he shares what Wikipedia’s success reveals about human nature and how trust fuels progress. Jimmy is also author of The Seven Rules of Trust: A Blueprint for Building Things That Last (https://amzn.to/499zKNR). Humans are born with just two fears but by adulthood, we’ve collected dozens more: from spiders to plane crashes to ghosts and scary monsters. So why do we fear so much, and so often the wrong things? Ruth DeFoster, assistant professor of journalism at the University of Minnesota and author of The Fear Knot: How Science, History and Culture Shape Our Fears – and How to Get Unstuck (https://amzn.to/3Jghms4), explains how fear takes hold of us, how the media amplifies it, and what we can do to loosen its grip. You can’t really make yourself taller — but you can look taller. From the length of your sleeves to the shape of your belt buckle, subtle details can add (or subtract) inches from your perceived height. Listen as I share clever styling tips that create the illusion of height and confidence. https://londonimageinstitute.com/illusion-dressing-to-look-taller-slimmer-for-business/ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS! AG1: Head to https://DrinkAG1.com/SYSK to get a FREE Welcome Kit with an AG1 Flavor Sampler and a bottle of Vitamin D3 plus K2, when you first subscribe! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Give and get timeless holiday staples that last this season with Quince. Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! ON POINT: We love the On Point podcast! Listen wherever you get your podcasts! https://www.wbur.org/radio/programs/onpoint SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 03 Nov 2025 - 1318 - The Dark Side of Achievement & The Astonishing Science of the Sea-SYSK Choice
Why are the numbers 1, 2, and 3 across the top of a phone keypad but across the bottom of a calculator? It’s not random — and once you hear the logic, you’ll never look at a keypad the same way again. That’s just one of three quirky mysteries I explain at the start of this episode, along with surprising insights about portholes and time. Source: Ivan Semeniuk, co-author of Why Don’t Penguins’ Feet Freeze? (https://amzn.to/3sf8muM) Achievement can be wonderful — until it starts defining your worth. When you believe you matter only because of what you accomplish, it can lead to burnout, anxiety, and even shame. Journalist and social commentator Jennifer Wallace, author of Never Enough: When Achievement Culture Becomes Toxic—And What We Can Do About It( https://amzn.to/49jkdIQ), reveals how modern “achievement culture” took hold, why it’s making so many people miserable, and how to redefine success so it actually feels good. The ocean covers 70% of our planet, yet we’ve explored only a fraction of it. Beneath the surface lies an astonishing, interconnected system that shapes everything from our weather to our food. Physicist and oceanographer Helen Czerski, author of The Blue Machine: How the Ocean Works (https://amzn.to/3scCyXo), takes us on a fascinating deep dive into the hidden forces that drive the sea — and why there’s really only one global ocean. According to one marriage expert, there’s a remarkably simple thing any woman can do to motivate the man in her life — and it works every time. It’s quick, it’s easy, and the results may surprise you. Source: David Clarke, PhD, author of The Total Marriage Makeover (https://amzn.to/3QoIvZD). PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! QUINCE: Layer up this fall with pieces that feel as good as they look! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! ON POINT: We love the On Point podcast! Listen wherever you get your podcasts! https://www.wbur.org/radio/programs/onpoint SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 01 Nov 2025 - 1317 - How You Can Access Hidden Markets & How to Be A Super Conversationalist
Hooters has no male waiters. Isn’t that discrimination? Or could it be that men just don’t want to work there? The answer is no to both questions. Listen as I explain the answer and why it is perfectly legal. https://www.businessinsider.com/how-can-hooters-hire-only-women-2015-9 How do some people manage to get tables at “fully booked” restaurants, snag concert tickets that sell out in minutes, or get their child into the right school? It’s not always luck — it’s knowing how to access hidden markets. My guest, Judd Kessler, professor of business economics and public policy at The Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania and author of Lucky By Design: The Hidden Economics You Need to Get More of What You Want (https://amzn.to/478Zmb0), explains how to spot and navigate these unseen systems to tip the odds in your favor. We all talk — but only a few people are truly great at it. When you meet a super conversationalist, the connection feels effortless, meaningful, and real. Pulitzer Prize–winning journalist Charles Duhigg, author of Supercommunicators: How to Unlock the Secret Language of Connection (https://amzn.to/48qOjfJ), reveals what the best conversationalists do differently and how you can instantly elevate your own communication skills. They say laughter is the best medicine, but it might also be a secret weight-loss tool. Research suggests that laughing stimulates your metabolism to burn calories. Listen as I share the science of laughter and weight loss. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/04/080407114617.htm PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! QUINCE: Layer up this fall with pieces that feel as good as they look! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! ON POINT: We love the On Point podcast! Listen wherever you get your podcasts! https://www.wbur.org/radio/programs/onpoint SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 30 Oct 2025 - 1316 - Think You’re Too Smart to Be Scammed? & The Invention That Changed Medicine
People who live the longest aren’t always the ones with the “perfect” body weight. In fact, research suggests that being slightly overweight can actually increase your life expectancy. It sounds counterintuitive, but the science may surprise you. Listen as I explain what’s really going on. https://healthland.time.com/2013/01/02/being-overweight-is-linked-to-lower-risk-of-mortality/ Ever since the dawn of the Internet, we’ve been told to guard against hackers — but today’s biggest threat isn’t hacking, it’s scamming. Cybercriminals are more cunning than ever, tricking millions into giving up money and information every day. If you think you are too clever to be taken by cyber-scammers, think again. Eric O’Neill — former FBI undercover operative, national security attorney, and cybersecurity strategist — reveals how modern scams work and how to stop them before they get to you. He’s the author of Spies, Lies, and Cybercrime: Cybersecurity Tactics to Outsmart Hackers and Disarm Scammers (https://amzn.to/4nRvvv1). Imagine medicine without X-rays, CT scans, or MRIs. It’s impossible — these imaging breakthroughs revolutionized how doctors diagnose and treat disease. Yet not long ago, the idea of seeing inside the body without a single incision was pure fantasy. Dr. Daniel K. Sodickson, chief of innovation in radiology at NYU Grossman School of Medicine and author of The Future of Seeing: How Imaging Is Changing Our World (https://amzn.to/3KNz3zS), shares the fascinating story of how imaging transformed modern medicine — and what’s coming next. Sarcasm might seem like just a clever way to joke around but it’s actually good exercise for your brain. Using and understanding sarcasm requires multiple parts of your mind to work together. Listen as I explain why being sarcastic might make you sharper. https://www.hbs.edu/faculty/Pages/item.aspx?num=49283&utm PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! QUINCE: Layer up this fall with pieces that feel as good as they look! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! ON POINT: We love the On Point podcast! Listen wherever you get your podcasts! https://www.wbur.org/radio/programs/onpoint SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 27 Oct 2025 - 1315 - Why Creativity Isn’t Always Good & The Magic of Horror Movies at Halloween - SYSK Choice
Your grandmother was right — you should sit up straight. Posture affects far more than your appearance. It influences your mood, productivity, and even how well you think. I begin this episode with surprising research showing how simply improving your posture can boost everything from confidence to cognitive performance. https://www.deseret.com/2023/10/24/23930242/dont-slouch-minding-your-posture-good-mental-health-productivity We often hear that creativity is the key to success — but is it really? Cultural historian Samuel Franklin says the cult of creativity might be one of the most overrated ideas in modern life. He’s the author of The Cult of Creativity: A Surprisingly Recent History (https://amzn.to/3MiaJUC), and he reveals how our obsession with being “creative” is a relatively new concept — and why, in many cases, getting things done matters more than thinking outside the box. Why do we love to be scared? Every Halloween, millions of people pay good money to feel terror in the theater. Science writer Nina Nesseth, author of Nightmare Fuel: The Science of Horror Films (https://amzn.to/46Let9l), joins me to explore why horror movies captivate us, how they affect our brains, and why this much-maligned genre deserves a lot more respect than it gets. And finally — are daily showers really necessary? Many of us can’t imagine skipping one, but dermatologists say too much cleanliness might actually backfire. I’ll explain what the science says about how often you should shower — and what happens if you overdo it. http://health.howstuffworks.com/skin-care/daily/tips/daily-shower-skin1.htm PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DELL: Your new Dell PC with Intel Core Ultra helps you handle a lot when your holiday to-dos get to be…a lot. Upgrade today by visiting https://Dell.com/Deals QUINCE: Layer up this fall with pieces that feel as good as they look! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! ON POINT: We love the On Point podcast! Listen wherever you get your podcasts! https://www.wbur.org/radio/programs/onpoint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 25 Oct 2025 - 1314 - Why Winners Often Lose & What Great Teams Do Differently
When you ask someone to recall something from deep in their memory, watch their face — they’ll probably do something that actually helps them remember. You might do it too without realizing it. Listen as I reveal what it is and why it works. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/ulterior-motives/201110/why-do-you-close-your-eyes-remember Have you heard of the winner’s curse or the sunk cost theory? These are strange but predictable ways our brains can trick us when we take risks — especially with money. My guest, Alex O. Imas, Professor of Behavioral Science, Economics, and Applied AI at the University of Chicago, has studied these “behavioral anomalies” with Nobel Prize winner Richard Thaler. Together they co-authored The Winner’s Curse: Behavioral Economics Anomalies, Then and Now. (https://amzn.to/48gycBj) . Listen to how these things work, because understanding these anomalies can help keep you from falling victim to them. We’ve all had to work in groups, whether it’s a team we are assigned to at work, or a neighborhood committee or parents’ group. Sometimes they run beautifully. Often… they don’t. Why do so many groups struggle, and how can we make them more effective? Colin T. Fisher, Associate Professor of Organizations and Innovation at University College London, joins me to share insights that can help any team excel. Colin is author of the book The Collective Edge: Unlocking the Secret Power of Groups.(https://amzn.to/48WcuCT). Whether you cook or not, at some point you find yourself in the kitchen putting food away and you run into the problem of – sometimes the plastic wrap clings to the container and sometimes it does not. Listen to hear the secret of how to get it to stick every time. https://lifehacker.com/run-a-wet-finger-across-surfaces-to-make-plastic-wrap-s-1728185077 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DELL: Your new Dell PC with Intel Core Ultra helps you handle a lot when your holiday to-dos get to be…a lot. Upgrade today by visiting https://Dell.com/Deals QUINCE: Layer up this fall with pieces that feel as good as they look! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! ON POINT: We love the On Point podcast! Listen wherever you get your podcasts! https://www.wbur.org/radio/programs/onpoint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 23 Oct 2025 - 1313 - The Science of Morbid Curiosity & The Dirty Secrets of Clean Energy
When you want to reach out to someone — to ask them on a date, invite them to an event, or simply connect — what’s the best way to do it? Text? Email? A phone call? Research shows one option is far more effective, and it’s not what most people assume. Listen as I reveal what science says is the best way to reach out. https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/article/item/should_you_call_or_text_science_weighs_in?utm Why do people slow down to gawk at car crashes, binge true crime podcasts, or line up for horror movies? Humans are naturally drawn to the morbid, and science suggests there may be real benefits to that curiosity. My guest Coltan Scrivner is a leading expert on morbid curiosity and frightening entertainment and he is here to explain why we are drawn to things that disgust us and why we can’t look away when we see them. He’s the author of Morbidly Curious: A Scientist Explains Why We Can't Look Away (https://amzn.to/46FKyQQ), and his insights will change how you see your own curiosity. We call solar, wind, and battery power “clean energy” — but behind the label lies a far dirtier truth. Mining the lithium, cobalt, nickel, and copper needed to power the green revolution comes at a steep cost to the planet. Ernest Scheyder, senior correspondent for Reuters and author of The War Below: Lithium, Copper, and the Global Battle to Power Our Lives (https://amzn.to/42rZtNw), pulls back the curtain on the hidden side of alternative energy. Friendship is essential at every age, but science shows teenage friendships may carry benefits that last a lifetime. Teens who build strong connections not only grow up to be more socially connected adults but also enjoy an important — and surprising — boost to long-term health. Listen as I explain this fascinating link. https://www.medicaldaily.com/adult-will-your-health-remain-strong-look-back-your-teens-and-friends-you-had-answer-350664 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DELL: Your new Dell PC with Intel Core Ultra helps you handle a lot when your holiday to-dos get to be…a lot. Upgrade today by visiting https://Dell.com/Deals QUINCE: Layer up this fall with pieces that feel as good as they look! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! ON POINT: We love the On Point podcast! Listen wherever you get your podcasts! https://www.wbur.org/radio/programs/onpoint Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 20 Oct 2025 - 1312 - How to Master Emotional Power & How Elevators Changed the World - SYSK Choice
As people age, forgetfulness often creeps in — but not all memory loss is inevitable. In fact, some of the most common causes are preventable, and with the right strategies, memory can be protected and even improved. I’ll explain what really drives age-related forgetfulness and what you can do about it. Source: William Cone, PhD, author of Stop Memory Loss (https://amzn.to/3PNKIOX). Negative emotions hit us all — anger, fear, frustration, stress — but how you handle those feelings determines your “emotional power.” Leading neuropsychologist Julia DiGangi reveals the science behind emotional triggers and how your brain shapes your reactions. She’s the author of Energy Rising: The Neuroscience of Leading with Emotional Power (https://amzn.to/463rDhu), and her insights will help you understand why you react the way you do and how to channel emotions into strength rather than struggle. Elevators are so ordinary we barely think about them — until we’re standing in one, feeling awkward or even a little uneasy. Yet without elevators, skyscrapers and modern cities as we know them wouldn’t exist. Dr. Lee Gray, professor of architectural history at UNC Charlotte and author of From Ascending Rooms to Express Elevators: A History of the Passenger Elevator (https://amzn.to/44ZLtsM)., takes us inside the fascinating history of elevators, from their risky beginnings to the sophisticated systems we trust today. Struggling to sleep? The problem may not be you — it could be your bedroom. Small details in your sleep environment can make the difference between tossing and turning or getting deep, restful sleep. I’ll share quick and easy changes you can make tonight for a better night’s rest. https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/understanding-sleep-problems-basics PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DELL: Your new Dell PC with Intel Core Ultra helps you handle a lot when your holiday to-dos get to be…a lot. Upgrade today by visiting https://Dell.com/Deals QUINCE: Layer up this fall with pieces that feel as good as they look! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 18 Oct 2025 - 1311 - The Problem with Authenticity & The Psychology That Fuels War
What really happens when two people kiss? Far more than you think. From the brain chemistry it triggers, to the subtle information you’re exchanging, to the dozens of muscles involved — kissing is a complex act with fascinating effects on both body and mind. https://www.thehealthy.com/family/relationships/6-ways-kissing-makes-you-stronger/#ixzz3kK7pLATk “Be authentic.” You’ve heard that advice countless times — but what does it actually mean? Do you really have one “authentic self”? And if so, why are the less admirable parts of that self rarely included in the conversation? My guest Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic — Chief Innovation Officer at ManpowerGroup, professor of business psychology at University College London and Columbia University, and author of Don't Be Yourself: Why Authenticity Is Overrated (and What to Do Instead) (https://amzn.to/4mBCbM9) — argues that authenticity is often misunderstood and even harmful. He reveals a smarter way to think about who you are and how you present yourself. There has never been a moment in recorded history without war. Not one. So, is war inevitable — a hardwired part of human nature? Neuroscientist Nicholas Wright explores this question, drawing from his research on the brain, technology, and security at University College London, Georgetown University, and the Center for Strategic and International Studies, where he also advises the Pentagon Joint Staff. He’s the author of Warhead: How the Brain Shapes War and War Shapes the Brain (https://amzn.to/42YWADU), and he offers a provocative look at whether humans are doomed to fight — or if peace is truly possible. Finally, what’s in your purse or briefcase could be hurting you more than you realize. Carrying too much weight around day after day can wreak havoc on your body. In this closing segment, I’ll explain the hidden dangers of an overloaded bag — and what you can do about it. https://www.lutherandowntownhospital.com/health-library/272 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DELL: Your new Dell PC with Intel Core Ultra helps you handle a lot when your holiday to-dos get to be…a lot. Upgrade today by visiting https://Dell.com/Deals QUINCE: Layer up this fall with pieces that feel as good as they look! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 16 Oct 2025 - 1310 - BONUS: You Might Also Like: "On Point"
We are sharing an episode of On Point with Meghna Chakrabarti. On Point is a rare public space where you hear nuanced explorations of complex topics live and in real time. Meghna leads provocative conversations that help make sense of the world, with urgency, timeliness and depth. In this episode Meghna asks: Could sunlight help treat disease? She details a growing number of studies that find potential benefits of UV light therapy for conditions like multiple sclerosis, Type 1 diabetes and Crohn’s disease. You can find more episodes of On Point at https://link.mgln.ai/shouldknow Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tue, 14 Oct 2025 - 1309 - How Gravity Affects Your Health & Jim Cramer on Beating the Market
Ever notice how weekdays feel different from one another? Mondays carry a heavy vibe, while Fridays seem lighter and more exciting. Science has a fascinating explanation for why certain days have a stronger “feel” than others, and we kick off this episode with the surprising psychology behind it. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-3209175/ Gravity is more than just the force that keeps us grounded — it’s quietly affecting your health every single day. From back pain to heart disease, gravity plays a role in nearly every chronic condition. But here’s the good news: there are ways to counteract its toll. Here to explain is Dr. Brennan Spiegel, director of Health Services Research at Cedars-Sinai, professor at UCLA, co-host of The Gravity Doctors podcast (https://thegravitydoctors.com/), and author of How Gravity Shapes Your Body, Steadies the Mind, and Guides Our Health (https://amzn.to/3VAdxkd). He joins me to explain how understanding gravity’s impact can help you live healthier and feel better. Most financial advisors say individual stocks are too risky — stick with mutual funds and ETFs. Jim Cramer disagrees. As host of CNBC’s Mad Money, founder of TheStreet, former hedge fund manager, and bestselling author of How to Make Money in Any Market (https://amzn.to/4nLYNKW), Jim believes that finding valuable stocks is easier today than ever. In this lively conversation, he reveals why picking the right stocks can be a smarter path to wealth — and why conventional advice might be holding you back. And here’s a question you’ve probably never thought too deeply about: when you lose weight, where does the fat actually go? It’s not “burned off” as many people think. The truth is simple physics — and once you hear it, you’ll never look at weight loss the same way again. https://www.bmj.com/content/349/bmj.g7257?utm_source=chatgpt.com PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DELL: Your new Dell PC with Intel Core Ultra helps you handle a lot when your holiday to-dos get to be…a lot. Upgrade today by visiting https://Dell.com/Deals QUINCE: Layer up this fall with pieces that feel as good as they look! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 13 Oct 2025 - 1308 - The Science of Goal Setting & The Truth About Denial - SYSK Choice
Ever wondered if there’s really a difference between hitting Restart and Shutdown on your PC? Turns out, there is — and knowing which one to use could save you a lot of frustration the next time your computer is acting up. I’ll explain why one option is far better when it comes to fixing problems. https://computer.howstuffworks.com/restarting-shutting-down-computer.htm We all say we want to do important things — but then somehow they never get done. Why do we procrastinate on the stuff that matters most, and how does that affect our lives? Rob Dial, host of The Mindset Mentor podcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-mindset-mentor/id1033048640 and bestselling author of Level Up: How to Get Focused, Stop Procrastinating, and Upgrade Your Life (https://amzn.to/48QRV8j), joins me to uncover the psychology of procrastination and share powerful motivation strategies that will get you moving on the life you really want. Denial is one of those tricky human tendencies — easy to spot in others, but hard to see in ourselves. And it can quietly wreak havoc on relationships and decision-making. Jane Greer, nationally known marriage and family therapist who has appeared on Oprah, The Today Show, Dateline NBC, and more, brings fresh insights into why denial happens and how to break free from it. She’s the author of six books on relationships, including her latest, Am I Lying to Myself?: How To Overcome Denial and See the Truth (https://amzn.to/48QvCzV) Negotiation doesn’t have to be intimidating. In fact, there are a few simple tactics you can use that are so easy yet incredibly powerful. They come straight from master negotiator Herb Cohen, author of Negotiate This! By Caring, But Not That Much (https://amzn.to/3rXYnK6). In this segment, I’ll reveal his strategies so you can walk into your next negotiation with confidence. PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DELL: Your new Dell PC with Intel Core Ultra helps you handle a lot when your holiday to-dos get to be…a lot. Upgrade today by visiting https://Dell.com/Deals QUINCE: Layer up this fall with pieces that feel as good as they look! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 11 Oct 2025 - 1307 - How to Get Better Results with AI & The Science of Healing Trauma
Expiration dates aren’t always what they seem. While most packaged foods carry them, some foods — like salt — can last virtually forever. In fact, there’s a surprising list of everyday staples that can outlive the labels and stay good for years. Listen as I reveal which foods never really expire. https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/long-term-food-storage-staples-that-last-forever/ AI tools like ChatGPT are everywhere, but to use them well, you need more than just clear questions. The way you prompt, the way you think about the model, and even the way it was trained all play a role in the results you get. To break it all down, I’m joined by Christopher Summerfield, Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience at Oxford and Staff Research Scientist at Google DeepMind. He’s also the author of These Strange New Minds: How AI Learned to Talk and What It Means (https://amzn.to/4na3ka2), and he reveals how to get smarter, more effective answers from AI. When does a tough experience cross the line into “trauma”? And once you’ve been through trauma, is it destined to shape your future forever — or is real healing possible? Dr. Amy Apigian, a double board-certified physician in preventive and addiction medicine with master’s degrees in biochemistry and public health, shares a fascinating new way of looking at trauma. She’s the author of The Biology of Trauma: How the Body Holds Fear, Pain, and Overwhelm, and How to Heal It (https://amzn.to/4mrsoIu), and what she reveals may change how you view your own life experiences. Looking more attractive doesn’t always come down to hair, makeup, or clothes. Science has uncovered a list of simple behaviors and traits that make people instantly more appealing — and most of them are surprisingly easy to do. Listen as I share these research-backed ways to boost your attractiveness.https://www.businessinsider.com/proven-ways-more-attractive-science-2015-7 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DELL: Your new Dell PC with Intel Core Ultra helps you handle a lot when your holiday to-dos get to be…a lot. Upgrade today by visiting https://Dell.com/Deals QUINCE: Layer up this fall with pieces that feel as good as they look! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 09 Oct 2025 - 1306 - The Smart Way to Spend Money & History That Never Happened
How you walk doesn’t just reflect your mood — it can actually shape it. Research shows that adjusting your stride can boost happiness, and even a short walk outside could be the smartest thing you do today. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/10/141015143259.htm When it comes to spending money, one-size-fits-all advice doesn’t work. Should you spend on experiences? Travel? Things? The truth is, the way money makes you happy depends on you. Joining me to explore this is Morgan Housel, partner at The Collaborative Fund, award-winning journalist, and author of The Art of Spending Money: Simple Choices for a Richer Life (https://amzn.to/4gxSGrd). He reveals how your spending choices can bring real joy — or quietly sabotage your happiness. History is full of stories we’ve all been told — and many of them are flat-out wrong. Did slaves build the pyramids? Was Pong the first video game? Were people in the Middle Ages dirty and unwashed? Not even close. My guest, Jo Hedwig Teeuwisse — better known as The Fake History Hunter — has been debunking false historical “facts” for more than 20 years. She’s the author of Fake History: 101 Things that Never Happened (https://amzn.to/46tN7FC), and she’s here to set the record straight. And finally, what’s the real cost of a little white lie? You might think small lies are harmless, but science shows even tiny untruths can damage your health and relationships. I’ll explain why honesty really is the best policy. https://research.nd.edu/news/32485-study-telling-fewer-lies-linked-to-better-health-relationships/ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DELL: Your new Dell PC with Intel Core Ultra helps you handle a lot when your holiday to-dos get to be…a lot. Upgrade today by visiting https://Dell.com/Deals QUINCE: Layer up this fall with pieces that feel as good as they look! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 06 Oct 2025 - 1305 - What Nature Reveals About Living Longer & Why Smart People Believe Irrational Things-SYSK Choice
If you’re stocking up on Halloween candy, do you know which treats kids actually want the most? This episode opens with a list of the top 10 most popular Halloween candies — and it may not be what you expect. https://www.cincinnati.com/story/entertainment/2023/10/03/blow-pops-win-title-ohio-favorite-halloween-candy/71041875007/ Some animals live unimaginably long lives — an oyster that’s over 500 years old, creatures that seem to never age at all. What if unlocking their secrets could help us extend human lifespans? Research into nature’s most resilient species is already pointing the way. Joining me is Steven Austad, Distinguished Professor of Biology at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and author of Methuselah’s Zoo: What Nature Can Teach Us about Living Longer, Healthier Lives (https://amzn.to/3Q5Zj8L). He reveals what the natural world is teaching us about living not just longer, but better. Why do some people come to believe things that simply aren’t true? From flat-earth theories to dangerous conspiracy thinking, misbelief is everywhere — and it can have serious consequences. Dan Ariely, professor of psychology and behavioral economics at Duke University, knows this topic intimately. He’s the author of Misbelief: What Makes Rational People Believe Irrational Things (https://amzn.to/3ZNNOpB), and he shares both the science and his personal story of being the target of misbelief. This conversation might change how you view false beliefs — and those who hold them. And finally today, tossing out your empty prescription bottles might seem harmless — but it could expose you to risks you never considered. In the closing segment, I’ll explain why and what you should do instead. https://www.newjerseyshredding.com/2021/09/27/the-basics-of-shredding-pill-bottles/ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DELL: Your new Dell PC with Intel Core Ultra helps you handle a lot when your holiday to-dos get to be…a lot. Upgrade today by visiting https://Dell.com/Deals QUINCE: Layer up this fall with pieces that feel as good as they look! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 04 Oct 2025 - 1304 - Deadly Risks You Overlook & Why We Treat Pets Like People
What really happens when you stand or sit up straight? More than you think. Posture affects your body and your mind in surprising ways. This episode begins with the science-backed benefits of tuning in to your posture. Source: https://www.medicaldaily.com/pulse/why-you-should-stand-straight-benefits-good-posture-345598 What’s most likely to kill you—and what can you actually do about it? That’s the urgent and practical question we explore with Dr. Tom Frieden, former Director of the CDC under President Obama and now CEO of Resolve to Save Lives. Dr. Frieden shares the latest science on the biggest threats to your health and longevity, and the powerful steps you can take to dramatically improve your odds. He’s also the author of The Formula for Better Health: How to Save Millions of Lives—Including Your Own (https://amzn.to/4gqvMSN). Why do we treat pets, stuffed animals, and even our cars as if they were human? Anthropomorphism—projecting human qualities onto non-human things—happens across every culture on earth. But why do we do it? Is there an upside? Can it cause harm? My guest Justin Gregg, senior research associate with the Dolphin Communication Project and adjunct professor at St. Francis Xavier University, unpacks the fascinating psychology behind this universal human trait. He’s also the author of Humanish: What Talking to Your Cat or Naming Your Car Reveals About the Uniquely Human Need to Humanize (https://amzn.to/4miASSg). And finally—why are we so easy to scam? Almost everyone has been tricked or swindled at some point - even the smartest among us has fallen for a clever con. We’ll look at why that is, and what it reveals about the way our minds work. https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/cutting-edge-leadership/201109/the-5-reasons-we-get-suckered-and-ripped-off PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DELL: Your new Dell PC with Intel Core Ultra helps you handle a lot when your holiday to-dos get to be…a lot. Upgrade today by visiting https://Dell.com/Deals QUINCE: Layer up this fall with pieces that feel as good as they look! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 02 Oct 2025 - 1303 - The Rise of Psychobabble and the Brilliant History of Photography
Vacations are supposed to be relaxing, but did you know there are proven ways to make them even better? Research shows that with a few simple strategies, you can maximize the happiness and memories you take away from your trip. This episode begins with science-backed tips to optimize your next getaway. https://www.vox.com/2015/7/22/9013783/vacation-science Mental health terms like “depressed,” “ADD,” and “narcissist” used to be reserved for professionals — yet now they’re casually tossed around in everyday conversations. But should they be? And what happens when clinical diagnoses turn into buzzwords? Psychotherapist Joe Nucci joins me to unpack this cultural shift. He’s the author of Psychobabble: Viral Mental Health Myths & the Truths to Set You Free (https://amzn.to/3IaUn1e), and he reveals why our casual use of these terms may be doing more harm than good. Photography is one of humanity’s most transformative inventions. It’s how we record our lives, create art, and communicate across cultures. But its origins are far more fascinating — and even dangerous — than most people realize. Writer and photo editor Anika Burgess tells the riveting story of how photography began and why it revolutionized the modern world. She’s the author of Flashes of Brilliance: The Genius of Early Photography and How It Transformed Art, Science, and History (https://amzn.to/42otrSl). Finally, have you ever found bleach stains on clothes even though you didn’t use bleach in the wash? It’s a common mystery with an unexpected explanation. I’ll reveal how it happens and what you can do to prevent it. https://www.realsimple.com/home-organizing/cleaning/laundry/bleach-alternative PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DELL: Your new Dell PC with Intel Core Ultra helps you handle a lot when your holiday to-dos get to be…a lot. Upgrade today by visiting https://Dell.com/Deals QUINCE: Layer up this fall with pieces that feel as good as they look! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 29 Sep 2025 - 1302 - Mastering the Art of Speaking on the Spot & The Surprising Story of Breakfast Cereal - SYSK Choice
If you walked into your backyard and scooped up just a pinch of dirt, you’d be holding an entire underground universe in your fingers — one teeming with life and mysteries you’ve probably never imagined. I’ll reveal what’s really hidden in that soil. Source: David W. Wolfe, author of Tales From The Underground https://amzn.to/3tvUBIk Speaking in front of people — whether it’s a handful of colleagues or a packed room — can feel nerve-wracking. But with a few simple techniques, you can transform that anxiety into confidence and make your message land with impact. Communication expert Matt Abrahams, lecturer in Organizational Behavior at Stanford University’s Graduate School of Business and author of Think Faster: Talk Smarter (https://amzn.to/3Q6zMev), shares practical advice that will instantly make you a more effective, engaging speaker. When you pour a bowl of cereal, you probably think of brightly colored boxes from Kellogg’s, Post, or General Mills. But the history of breakfast cereal stretches back centuries — and the quirky, sometimes bizarre story of how corn flakes and cold cereals became a global staple is full of fascinating characters and surprising twists. Kathryn Cornell Dolan, associate professor of English at Missouri University of Science and Technology and author of Breakfast Cereal: A Global History (https://amzn.to/3ZKV0Tz), takes us through the delicious backstory. Here’s something strange: in just the last few decades, human feet have been getting noticeably bigger. Both men and women today wear larger sizes than previous generations. Why is this happening? I’ll explain the prevailing theory behind the rise of bigger feet. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1239975/Female-feet-getting-larger-size-10s-demand.html PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DELL: Huge savings on Dell AI PCs with Intel Core Ultra processors are here, and they are newly designed to help you do more, faster. Upgrade today by visiting https://Dell.com/Deals QUINCE: Keep it classic and cool this fall with long lasting staples from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Whether you want to lose weight, grow thicker, fuller hair, or find relief for anxiety, Hers has you covered. Visit https://forhers.com/something to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 27 Sep 2025 - 1301 - The Science of Focus and Distraction & Unlocking Emotional Intelligence
Why do people cheat when they know it’s wrong? Whether it’s on a test or in a relationship, the answer may lie in your hormones. This episode begins with surprising research that reveals the powerful role biology plays in dishonest behavior.(https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-3178947/What-makes-cheat-HORMONES-People-high-levels-certain-chemicals-likely-behave-badly.html) Distractions have become a way of life — endless scrolling, constant notifications, and interruptions that destroy our ability to concentrate. Yet the ability to focus is one of the most valuable skills you can have. My guest, Dr. Zelana Montminy, behavioral scientist and author of Finding Focus: Own Your Attention in an Age of Distraction (https://amzn.to/3VNtNOA), shares practical strategies to cut through the noise, reclaim your attention, and unlock the superpower of deep focus. Emotions are a double-edged sword — they can fuel your success or sabotage your best intentions. Learning to regulate them is the key. Marc Brackett, founding director of the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and professor at Yale’s Child Study Center, explains how to harness emotions in a way that benefits your work, relationships, and well-being. He’s the author of Dealing with Feeling: Use Your Emotions to Create the Life You Want (https://amzn.to/3VGJreH). And finally, here’s something truly strange: researchers have discovered that simply looking at a disgusting image can predict your political leanings with remarkable accuracy. In this closing segment, I reveal how it works. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/10/141029124502.htm PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DELL: Huge savings on Dell AI PCs with Intel Core Ultra processors are here, and they are newly designed to help you do more, faster. Upgrade today by visiting https://Dell.com/Deals QUINCE: Keep it classic and cool this fall with long lasting staples from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Whether you want to lose weight, grow thicker, fuller hair, or find relief for anxiety, Hers has you covered. Visit https://forhers.com/something to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 25 Sep 2025 - 1300 - The Mystery of Common Knowledge & Why Some People Are Never On Time
If I showed you some photos of yourself and asked you to pick out the one that most accurately represented what you really looked like – could you do it? Listen as I begin this episode by explaining why you most likely could not. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/06/150623200016.htm?utm_source=chatgpt.com Common knowledge is something that I know that you know, and you know that I know you know it! And so usually, we never discuss it. Sounds confusing but without common knowledge life would be amazingly difficult and tedious as you are about to discover when you listen to my conversation with Steven Pinker. Steven is a professor of psychology at Harvard University and is the author of 12 books. His latest is When Everyone Knows That Everyone Knows . . .: Common Knowledge and the Mysteries of Money, Power, and Everyday Life (https://amzn.to/46oYRdG). Some people are chronically late. It’s as if they have a completely different attitude toward time. Yet their tardiness can infuriate people who are punctual and expect other people to be. Is it rudeness or is it just a different “time personality”? There was an interesting article about this in the New York Times not long ago that got quite a bit of attention. Joining me in this episode is the author of that article, Emily Laber-Warren. She heads the health and science reporting program at the Craig Newmark Graduate School of Journalism at the City University of New York and has been a staff editor at Popular Science, The Sciences, Scientific American Mind, and Women's Health. Here is a link to the NY Times article: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/07/25/well/live/time-personality-polychronic-monochronic.html?unlocked_article_code=1.fE8.XJAU.mLoAAuZCOiwU&smid=url-share The next time you are in a bad mood, I have some quick, science-backed suggestions to help you snap out of it and cheer up almost instantly. https://www.womansday.com/health-fitness/wellness/advice/a51333/how-to-get-in-a-good-mood/ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DELL: Huge savings on Dell AI PCs with Intel Core Ultra processors are here, and they are newly designed to help you do more, faster. Upgrade today by visiting https://Dell.com/Deals QUINCE: Keep it classic and cool this fall with long lasting staples from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Whether you want to lose weight, grow thicker, fuller hair, or find relief for anxiety, Hers has you covered. Visit https://forhers.com/something to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 22 Sep 2025 - 1299 - Surprising Benefits of Being Awkward & The Amazing Power of Seeds - SYSK Choice
We’ve all heard the test-taking advice: “If you’re stuck, trust your first answer.” But is that really the smart move? Research says no — and I begin this episode by explaining why going with your gut on exams might actually hurt your score. Source: Joseph T. Hallinan, author of Why We Make Mistakes (https://amzn.to/44PV4SQ). Feeling awkward or embarrassed is awful in the moment — but maybe it’s not nearly as bad as you think. In fact, those cringeworthy moments might even be a secret weapon. Henna Pryor has studied the psychology of embarrassment and shares why embracing awkwardness can help you become braver and more resilient. She’s a keynote speaker with two TEDx talks (https://www.ted.com/talks/henna_pryor_why_awkwardness_is_your_secret_weapon_for_risk_taking_at_work) and author of Good Awkward: How to Embrace the Embarrassing and Celebrate the Cringe to Become The Bravest You (https://amzn.to/45Ksgwh). We take seeds for granted — but how plants grow from them is one of nature’s most astonishing processes. Jennifer Jewell, gardening educator, advocate, and host of the Cultivating Place podcast (https://www.cultivatingplace.com/blog-1), reveals the hidden wonders of seeds, including fascinating insights like how seedless watermelons are grown without seeds at all. She’s also the author of What We Sow (https://amzn.to/3EKxv3f), a book that will forever change the way you look at the plants around you. Parallel parking may feel like a nightmare, but it doesn’t have to be. With a couple of simple tricks, it’s easier than you think. In the final segment, I share a straightforward technique that can make squeezing into tight spots much less stressful. Source: Jason Roberts, author of The Learn 2 Guide (https://amzn.to/3PnPNfH). PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DELL: Huge savings on Dell AI PCs with Intel Core Ultra processors are here, and they are newly designed to help you do more, faster. Upgrade today by visiting https://Dell.com/Deals QUINCE: Keep it classic and cool this fall with long lasting staples from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Whether you want to lose weight, grow thicker, fuller hair, or find relief for anxiety, Hers has you covered. Visit https://forhers.com/something to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 20 Sep 2025 - 1298 - The Promise and Peril of Disruptive Technology & How Being in Nature Changes You
Who hasn’t craved something sweet and delicious? You try to resist, but your brain keeps insisting. Surprisingly, there’s a simple trick that can make that craving disappear almost instantly. Listen as I reveal the science-backed way to quiet your sweet tooth. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/sweet-tooth-disgusting-food_n_55afe669e4b0a9b9485360de Disruption is the force that reshapes the world — from the printing press and gunpowder to smartphones, AI, and driverless cars. Innovation has always been both thrilling and unsettling, and today it’s accelerating faster than ever. To help us understand how past disruptions can teach us about the changes happening now, I talk with Scott Anthony, clinical professor of strategy at the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth. Widely regarded as one of the world’s top innovation thinkers, Scott is author of Epic Disruptions: 11 Innovations That Shaped Our Modern World (https://amzn.to/45ZjnQO). Your mom was right when she told you to go outside and play — but science now shows that the benefits of nature go far beyond fresh air. Spending time outdoors can improve your brainpower, your physical health, and even your social connections. Marc Berman, leading environmental neuroscientist and founder of the Environmental Neuroscience Laboratory at the University of Chicago, joins me to explain just how powerful nature can be. He’s the author of Nature and the Mind: The Science of How Nature Improves Cognitive, Physical, and Social Well-Being (https://amzn.to/47YYeZy). Why do so many people choke under pressure — even when performing tasks they’ve practiced countless times? When the stakes are high, nerves can sabotage your performance. But there’s a proven strategy to help keep calm and perform at your best. I’ll explain how it works in this final segment. Source: Hank Weisinger author of Performing Under Pressure (https://amzn.to/4p3wM33). PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DELL: Huge savings on Dell AI PCs with Intel Core Ultra processors are here, and they are newly designed to help you do more, faster. Upgrade today by visiting https://Dell.com/Deals QUINCE: Keep it classic and cool this fall with long lasting staples from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Whether you want to lose weight, grow thicker, fuller hair, or find relief for anxiety, Hers has you covered. Visit https://forhers.com/something to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 18 Sep 2025 - 1297 - How to Harness Your Intuition & The Surprising Science Hidden in Music
It might sound strange, but the way you evaluate your relationship could actually depend on the chair you’re sitting in. Multiple experiments suggest that posture and stance can influence how you judge your marriage or partnership. In the opening segment, I explain this fascinating connection. https://archive.nytimes.com/well.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/07/08/how-your-stance-may-test-your-marriage We all talk about intuition — that gut feeling when you know what to do without being able to explain why. But is intuition a real thing, or just a name we give to quick decision-making? And if it is real, can you actually strengthen it? To explore these questions, I’m joined by Laura Huang, professor of Management and Organizational Development at Northeastern University, who has also taught at Harvard Business School and the University of Pennsylvania. She’s the author of You Already Know: The Science of Mastering Your Intuition (https://amzn.to/45H7iRt). Music isn’t just art — it’s built on math and science. From Einstein using music for inspiration, to 50,000-year-old instruments unearthed by archaeologists, to the surprising role astronomy plays in the sound of the world’s most expensive violins — the links between music and science are everywhere. David Darling, science writer, music producer, and author of A Perfect Harmony: Music, Mathematics and Science (https://amzn.to/45H7zUv) joins me to uncover the hidden science behind the music we love. Finally, as summer fades, so do the mosquitoes — but have you ever wondered why some people seem to get bitten far more than others? The answer lies in how mosquitoes find their targets — and surprisingly, drinking just one common beverage can make you a mosquito magnet. I explain the science in this final segment. https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0028991 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DELL: Huge savings on Dell AI PCs with Intel Core Ultra processors are here, and they are newly designed to help you do more, faster. Upgrade today by visiting https://Dell.com/Deals QUINCE: Keep it classic and cool this fall with long lasting staples from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Whether you want to lose weight, grow thicker, fuller hair, or find relief for anxiety, Hers has you covered. Visit https://forhers.com/something to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 15 Sep 2025 - 1296 - The Secrets to Achieving Your Goals & Origin Stories of Our Favorite Phrases - SYSK Choice
Speed reading might sound impressive, but research shows that slowing down can actually improve comprehension, retention, and enjoyment. In this opening segment, we explore why reading at a slower pace could be the real key to getting the most out of your books and articles. https://www.bustle.com/p/7-reasons-slow-reading-is-actually-a-good-thing-because-being-a-speed-reader-is-overrated-73092 On average, people juggle about 22 goals at any given time — but chasing all of them often leads to frustration and burnout. My guest, Jon Acuff, bestselling speaker and author of nine books, including All It Takes is a Goal (https://amzn.to/3PtSiOF), shares a fresh, motivating approach to goal setting. Learn how to identify the goals that truly matter, let go of the ones that don’t, and build momentum toward the ones that can change your life. “It’s raining cats and dogs,” “go cold turkey,” “know the ropes” — we say these things all the time, but rarely stop to ask where they originated. Caroline Taggart, longtime publishing professional and author of Humble Pie and Cold Turkey: English Expressions and Their Origins (https://amzn.to/3ZazBTw), takes us on a fun journey into the surprising and sometimes bizarre backstories of the phrases we use every day. Winning arguments isn’t easy — but there’s one simple strategy that dramatically improves your chances. In this closing segment, I share the key insight from Mike Nichols, author of The Lost Art of Listening (https://amzn.to/3ErzkSy), that can help you argue smarter, connect better, and maybe even change a few minds. PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DELL: Huge savings on Dell AI PCs with Intel Core Ultra processors are here, and they are newly designed to help you do more, faster. Upgrade today by visiting https://Dell.com/Deals QUINCE: Keep it classic and cool this fall with long lasting staples from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Whether you want to lose weight, grow thicker, fuller hair, or find relief for anxiety, Hers has you covered. Visit https://forhers.com/something to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 13 Sep 2025 - 1295 - Why We All Crave Social Status & The Extraordinary Sense That Stops You From Falling
You probably aren’t letting your dishwasher do its job the way it’s designed to — and you may be wasting time (and water) in the process. In this opening segment, we reveal why your dishwasher is smarter than you think, how to make it work harder for you, and the one thing it desperately wants you to stop doing. https://www.womansday.com/home/organizing-cleaning/a51170/stop-prerinsing-dishes/ Social status isn’t just for the shallow or phony — it’s something we all crave in one way or another. Whether at work, in friendships, or within communities, status offers hidden advantages. Joining me to explore how status really works is Toby Stuart, professor of business administration at the Haas School of Business, UC Berkeley, who has also taught at Harvard, Columbia, and the University of Chicago. He’s the author of Anointed: The Extraordinary Effects of Social Status in a Winner-Take-Most World (https://amzn.to/421hLEO), and he explains why status-seeking is deeply human — and far more influential than you may realize. You may never have heard of your vestibular system, but without it, simple tasks like walking or even standing would be nearly impossible. It’s the hidden sense that keeps your balance in check, and it’s just as vital as sight or hearing. To explain how it works and why it matters, I’m joined by Dr. Jeffrey Sharon, director of the Balance and Falls Center and associate professor at the University of California, San Francisco. He’s also author of The Great Balancing Act: An Insider’s Guide to the Human Vestibular System (https://amzn.to/4g1rdhC). More and more people are asking visitors to ditch their shoes at the door. But is it really worth it? From hygiene to household health, we’ll explore the surprising benefits of a no-shoes policy — and why you might want to start enforcing it in your own home. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/shoes-off-at-the-door-new_b_469245 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DELL: Huge savings on Dell AI PCs with Intel Core Ultra processors are here, and they are newly designed to help you do more, faster. Upgrade today by visiting https://Dell.com/Deals QUINCE: Keep it classic and cool this fall with long lasting staples from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Whether you want to lose weight, grow thicker, fuller hair, or find relief for anxiety, Hers has you covered. Visit https://forhers.com/something to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 11 Sep 2025 - 1294 - The Really Good News About Stress & Why Movies Just Aren’t the Same Anymore
Why do kids really get the summer off from school? The popular myth is that it was to help out on the family farm—but that’s not true at all. The real reason is much simpler (and more obvious). This episode begins with the surprising explanation.Source: https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/56901/why-do-students-get-summers Stress often gets a bad reputation. We’re told it’s harmful and that the goal should be to reduce or eliminate it. But according to Dr. Rebecca Heiss, stress isn’t the enemy—in fact, it can be one of your greatest assets. Rachel is a physiologist, researcher, and author of Springboard: Transform Stress to Work for You (https://amzn.to/3JwSCvx). She reveals groundbreaking research showing that stress, when used properly, is essential for growth, resilience, and success. Movies today are everywhere—streaming platforms, endless libraries, and algorithms that recommend what to watch. Yet somehow, many people feel like movies just aren’t what they used to be. Why is that? Jeff Rauseo, author of Lost in the Stream: How Algorithms Redefined the Way Movies Are Made and Watched (https://amzn.to/41hhcXq) explores how technology and changing viewing habits have transformed both filmmaking and movie-watching—and why it’s left some audiences feeling less satisfied. And finally, bananas. Did you know bananas are actually berries? Or that you might be peeling them wrong (at least according to monkeys)? Listen as I share some fun and surprising facts about one of the world’s most popular fruits.Source: https://www.thekitchn.com/do-bananas-really-ripen-more-slowly-when-theyre-separated-putting-tips-to-the-test-in-the-kitchen-216780 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! DELL: Huge savings on Dell AI PCs with Intel Core Ultra processors are here, and they are newly designed to help you do more, faster. Upgrade today by visiting https://Dell.com/Deals QUINCE: Keep it classic and cool this fall with long lasting staples from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Whether you want to lose weight, grow thicker, fuller hair, or find relief for anxiety, Hers has you covered. Visit https://forhers.com/something to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 08 Sep 2025 - 1293 - How to Improve at Anything & The Truth About Owning Nothing-SYSK Choice
Walking is great exercise. However, the speed you walk at can make a big difference. The right pace can offer health benefits and can have a surprising impact on how long you live. Source: https://www.healthline.com/health-news/people-who-walk-faster-tend-to-live-longer How do top performers get to be the best at what they do? Many people assume it’s all about experience or endless practice, but there’s a more effective approach. Eduardo Briceño joins me to explain how. He delivered a popular TED Talk called How to Get Better At The Things You Care About https://www.ted.com/talks/eduardo_briceno_how_to_get_better_at_the_things_you_care_about and is the author of The Performance Paradox: Turning the Power of Mindset into Action (https://amzn.to/45Hs4NY). Eduardo reveals a powerful strategy you can apply to improve at anything you want to master. A growing movement suggests that our future may involve owning less—or even nothing at all. Advocates claim it offers freedom from responsibility, but critics warn that it threatens the traditional path to wealth creation. One of those critics is Carol Roth, author of You Will Own Nothing (https://amzn.to/44wDGCr). Carol explains who is behind this movement, what it means for you, and why it could have big implications for the future. Let’s talk about chewing gum. It won’t cure diseases or transform your health, but it turns out gum has a few surprising benefits you might not know about.Source: https://www.numberanalytics.com/blog/the-surprising-benefits-of-chewing-gum#google_vignette PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Keep it classic and cool this fall with long lasting staples from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Whether you want to lose weight, grow thicker, fuller hair, or find relief for anxiety, Hers has you covered. Visit https://forhers.com/something to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 06 Sep 2025 - 1292 - Why You Wear Your Hair That Way & The Surprising Science of Human Stupidity
When you stay at a short-term rental property such as Airbnb, you often notice security cameras. After all, it is someone’s home. But what about cameras inside the home? This episode begins with surprising data about just how common hidden surveillance is—and what every guest should know. Source: https://www.ipx1031.com/surveillance-rental-study/ For as long as humans have been around, we’ve had to do something with our hair. We’ve cut it, colored it, styled it—and hairstyles have come and gone through the centuries. But where do these trends really come from? Why do they say so much about who we are? And why are some styles (like the mullet, the pompadour, or “The Rachel”) so iconic? To answer these questions, I speak with Rachel Gibson, a hair historian who knows more about hair than anyone you’ll ever meet. She’s currently writing a book on the subject and shares fascinating content on her Instagram @thehairhistorian https://www.instagram.com/thehairhistorian/# People can be brilliant, but they can also be incredibly stupid—and sometimes in spectacular ways. Why do individuals, organizations, and even governments make such foolish choices? And what can we learn from it? My guest is Cezary Pietrasik, co-owner of Synerise (a global AI leader in predicting human behavior), former investment banker at JPMorgan, former consultant at McKinsey, and author of Homo Idioticus: Why We Are Stupid and What to Do About It (https://amzn.to/3Jqsa6D). He explains the psychology of stupidity and shares jaw-dropping examples you won’t forget. When people are sad, they often ruminate—rehashing negative thoughts over and over. It feels hard to stop, but there is something simple that helps break the cycle. Listen as I reveal what science says about how to stop rumination. Source: https://www.theatlantic.com/health/archive/2015/06/how-walking-in-nature-prevents-depression/397172/ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Keep it classic and cool this fall with long lasting staples from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Whether you want to lose weight, grow thicker, fuller hair, or find relief for anxiety, Hers has you covered. Visit https://forhers.com/something to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 04 Sep 2025 - 1291 - The Secret World of Credit Cards & The Science of Building Unshakable Confidence
Why do humans blush—and why does it feel so uncomfortable when someone points it out? Charles Darwin once called blushing “the most peculiar and most human of all expressions.” In this episode, I start by exploring the surprising science of blushing and what it really communicates about us. Source: https://www.rd.com/article/why-do-people-blush/ Credit cards are so embedded in modern life that it’s hard to imagine shopping without them. But they haven’t been around that long. What was the very first credit card? Why are there only a few major players (Visa, MasterCard, AmEx)? And how can you hack credit card rewards programs to maximize your benefits? Joining me is Chris Hutchins, creator of AlltheHacks.com (http://www.allthehacks.com/) and host of the All the Hacks podcast. Chris takes us inside the secret world of credit cards, their fascinating history, and how you can make them work for you. Confidence can feel like an elusive trait—some people seem to have it naturally, while others struggle with self-doubt. But confidence isn’t just a personality trait—it’s a skill you can build. Juan Bendaña has coached CEOs, Olympians, Grammy-winning artists, and Fortune 100 leaders. He’s also the author of Confident by Choice: The Three Small Decisions That Build Everyday Courage (https://amzn.to/4fM1XeT). Listen as Juan reveals how small daily choices can boost your confidence and transform the way you show up in life. Powerful people often share certain characteristics that set them apart. When you identify and adopt these traits, you can project power too. Listen as I reveal what they are—based on the work of Robert Greene, author of The 48 Laws of Power (https://amzn.to/3HHwTQT). PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Keep it classic and cool this fall with long lasting staples from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Whether you want to lose weight, grow thicker, fuller hair, or find relief for anxiety, Hers has you covered. Visit https://forhers.com/something to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 01 Sep 2025 - 1290 - Simple Habits For Better Decisions & How Modern Tech Predicts the Weather -SYSK Choice
How often do you think the average American checks their phone each day? Whatever your guess, you’ll probably be shocked by the actual number. This episode kicks off with some eye-opening stats about our cell phone obsession and just how much it’s shaping our daily lives. https://www.reviews.org/mobile/cell-phone-addiction/ When it comes to decisions, many of us waste valuable energy stressing over choices that don’t even matter. To explore why this happens and how to make smarter choices with less stress, listen as I speak with Annie Duke — former professional poker player, decision-making consultant, and author of How To Decide: Simple Tools for Making Better Choices (https://amzn.to/3OQgGIF). Annie shares practical tools that can transform the way you think about decisions — big and small. Then, we turn to the science of weather. Forecasting has made incredible advances in recent years, and no one knows this better than James Marshall Shepherd, Georgia Athletic Association Distinguished Professor of Geography and Atmospheric Sciences at the University of Georgia and host of the Weather Geeks podcast (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/weather-geeks/id1373312240). James reveals the fascinating inner workings of weather prediction, why “partly sunny” isn’t the same as “partly cloudy,” and how technology is reshaping the way we understand the skies. Finally, let’s clear up a common misconception: why shouldn’t you drink alcohol while taking antibiotics? Most people assume it cancels out the medication — but that’s not the case. Listen as I explain the real reason doctors recommend avoiding alcohol with antibiotics. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/consumer-health/expert-answers/antibiotics-and-alcohol/faq-20057946 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Keep it classic and cool with long lasting staples from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Whether you want to lose weight, grow thicker, fuller hair, or find relief for anxiety, Hers has you covered. Visit https://forhers.com/something to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 30 Aug 2025 - 1289 - How Smart People Can Make Dumb Choices & The Serious Dangers of Social Media
Chances are, your home is full of things you don’t use, don’t need, and maybe don’t even recognize. Listen to the start of this episode and you’ll discover a simple list of household items you can toss out today — without a second thought. Clearing them out will free up space and make room for what truly matters. https://www.huffpost.com/entry/things-in-your-home-to-get-rid-of_n_4748455 Even the brightest minds can make surprisingly poor choices — sometimes with disastrous results. Panic plays a role, but there are also subtle psychological traps and quirks of human behavior that push smart people toward bad choices. Here to talk about this is Christopher J. Ferguson, professor of psychology at Stetson University in Florida and author of the book Catastrophe!: How Psychology Explains Why Good People Make Bad Situations Worse (https://amzn.to/3VKFHaF). Spending hours on social media can slowly reshape how you see the world — and it can even become addictive. That’s exactly what happened to Dr. Brian Boxer Wachler, MD, a social media influencer and author of Influenced: The Impact of Social Media on Our Perception (https://amzn.to/3EnuzsM). In this eye-opening conversation, Brian shares his personal journey through social media addiction and explains what happens in your brain every time you click “Like.” This is an essential listen for anyone worried about their own screen time — or concerned about how much time their kids spend online. What happens to your pets if you pass away before they do? The answer may surprise you — and it’s not as simple as putting it in your will. Listen and discover the essential steps to ensure your furry friends are cared for exactly as you wish, no matter what happens to you. http://pettrustlawyer.squarespace.com/ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Keep it classic and cool with long lasting staples from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Whether you want to lose weight, grow thicker, fuller hair, or find relief for anxiety, Hers has you covered. Visit https://forhers.com/something to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 28 Aug 2025 - 1288 - Unlocking Your Primal Intelligence & The Tug-of-War Between Competition and Cooperation
Your phone’s battery is an engineering marvel — but you might be killing it without even realizing it. In this opening segment, you’ll learn simple, science-backed charging habits that can dramatically extend your battery’s life and keep it holding a charge for years to come. https://www.popularmechanics.com/technology/gadgets/a15731/best-way-to-keep-li-ion-batteries-charged/ Have you heard of “primal intelligence”? It’s essentially the opposite of artificial intelligence — the innate, deeply human abilities we’re all born with but often lose touch with over time. U.S. Army Special Operations has been studying it, along with my guest, Angus Fletcher. He’s a professor of story science at Ohio State's Project Narrative and was awarded the U.S. Army Commendation Medal in 2023 for his groundbreaking research into primal intelligence. In this fascinating conversation, Angus shares how we can reclaim and strengthen this natural gift to solve problems, adapt faster, and think more creatively. He’s the author of Primal Intelligence: You Are Smarter Than You Know (https://amzn.to/3HvfeMi). Humans are wired to both compete and cooperate. While we evolved to survive in groups, we have our own self-interests and desires. So how do we strike the right balance between cooperation and competition? Jonathan Goodman, social scientist at the University of Cambridge, unpacks this age-old tension — revealing how it shapes our relationships, workplaces, and even our evolution. He’s the author of Invisible Rivals: How We Evolved to Compete in a Cooperative World (https://amzn.to/45QBrh1), and his insights might change how you see human nature itself. The number of overweight pets in the U.S. continues to escalate. Well over half of the dogs and cats in this country are overweight or obese. Listen as I reveal the cause, the cure and the way to prevent this epidemic. https://www.petobesityprevention.org/2023# PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Keep it classic and cool with long lasting staples from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Whether you want to lose weight, grow thicker, fuller hair, or find relief for anxiety, Hers has you covered. Visit https://forhers.com/something to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 25 Aug 2025 - 1287 - The Psychology of Lying & The Race for Outer Space - SYSK Choice
No one likes making a fool of themselves — but it turns out, it might be one of the best things you can do for your happiness. In this opening segment, we explore how moments of public embarrassment can lead to surprising psychological benefits. It may feel awful in the moment, but research says it could actually improve your well-being in the long run. https://exploringyourmind.com/making-fool-yourself-makes-you-happier/ Everyone lies… but at what cost? When you're caught in a lie, the damage goes beyond embarrassment — it can change how others see you and even how you see yourself. In this fascinating conversation, Drew Curtis, licensed psychologist and faculty member at Angelo State University, explains the psychology of lying. He’s author of Big Liars: What Psychological Science Tells Us About Lying and How You Can Avoid Being Duped (https://amzn.to/47PmsmP), and he reveals why we lie, how it affects our lives, and how to spot deception before it fools you. The space race is no longer just between nations — now, it's fueled by billionaires, startups, and high-stakes competition. Ashlee Vance, bestselling author of When the Heavens Went on Sale: The Misfits and Geniuses Racing to Put Space Within Reach (https://amzn.to/44gavDB) and feature writer at Bloomberg Businessweek, joins me to explore how private companies are transforming space exploration. Discover who's really leading the charge — and what’s at stake as space becomes the next frontier for profit. It sounds strange, but the bubbles in your cup of coffee might just give you a hint about the day’s forecast. In this quick and quirky segment, I explain how to read the signs in your coffee — and the science (sort of) behind it. https://www.instructables.com/Predict-weather-with-a-cup-of-coffee/ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Keep it classic and cool with long lasting staples from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Whether you want to lose weight, grow thicker, fuller hair, or find relief for anxiety, Hers has you covered. Visit https://forhers.com/something to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 23 Aug 2025 - 1286 - How Do You Create Happiness? & Why Dogs Behave the Way They Do
“Happy Birthday to You” might seem like a simple song, but its history is anything but. It has generated millions of dollars in royalties and been at the center of a wild legal saga. In this opening segment, you'll hear the fascinating backstory of one of the world’s most famous tunes — and learn about its current legal status. https://www.wipo.int/web/wipo-magazine/articles/in-the-courts-court-confirms-legal-status-of-happy-birthday-to-you-55581 Is happiness just a fleeting feeling — or something deeper and more lasting? In this enlightening segment, I speak with Arthur C. Brooks, professor at the Harvard Kennedy School and Harvard Business School, columnist at The Atlantic, and author of The Happiness Files: Insights on Work and Life (https://amzn.to/44VUbvm). He shares powerful insights into what happiness really is and how you can create more of it in your life — starting today. Why do dogs behave the way they do — and why don’t they always listen, even when they seem to know better? Acclaimed dog behaviorist and trainer Louise Glazebrook joins me to explain how dogs think, how to train them more effectively, and how to break frustrating habits. She’s the author of The Book Your Dog Wishes You Would Read: How to Raise the Happiest Dog (https://amzn.to/4fCwFax) — and she’s full of practical advice for every dog owner. If you don’t crack your knuckles, it might be hard to understand why others love it so much. Is it just a habit — or is there real pleasure (or danger) in the pop? In this segment, we explore what science says about why people crack their knuckles and whether it’s actually harmful. https://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2009/02/22/AR2009022201783.html PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Keep it classic and cool with long lasting staples from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Whether you want to lose weight, grow thicker, fuller hair, or find relief for anxiety, Hers has you covered. Visit https://forhers.com/something to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 21 Aug 2025 - 1285 - How Great Innovators Think & Turning Anger Into Strength
Try formulating an answer to a difficult question while looking someone in the eye. It is almost impossible. You must look away. Why is it so hard to concentrate while looking at someone? This episode starts with an explanation of that. http://www.livescience.com/7155-helps-concentration.html To be labeled as a great innovator is an honor. Innovators are held in high esteem. But what is it that makes them so special? What goes on in their heads that allows them to create innovative ideas? Here to delve deep into the minds of some of our greatest innovators is David Galenson. He is a professor of economics at the University of Chicago and author of the book Innovators (https://amzn.to/40ySzVN) Have you ever thought about where your anger comes from? When you get angry do you get aggressive, or do you use your anger to resolve the problem? If we let it get the best of us, anger can cause us to say or do things we regret, damage relationships or worse. There is a better way to deal with anger according to my guest, Sam Parker. He is a journalist who has written for publications including the Guardian, Telegraph, Observer and GQ magazine and he is author of a book called Good Anger: How Rethinking Rage Can Change Our Lives (https://amzn.to/4m3g4OS). In determining your premium, auto insurance companies factor in your address. But why should you pay more (or less) depending on where you live? Shouldn’t it be about how well and how much you drive? Listen as I explain the reasoning. https://www.alink2insurance.com/blog/how-location-impacts-car-insurance-premiums PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Keep it classic and cool with long lasting staples from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Whether you want to lose weight, grow thicker, fuller hair, or find relief for anxiety, Hers has you covered. Visit https://forhers.com/something to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 18 Aug 2025 - 1284 - Why You Are Predisposed to Worry & How Fonts Influence Our Feelings - SYSK Choice
Everyone knows exercise is good for you. But have you ever thought HOW it is good for you? This episode begins by explaining exactly what the benefits are both mentally and physically. And the benefits are substantial. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/exercise/art-20048389 Ever find yourself caught in a loop of “what ifs”? You imagine things going wrong — even when there’s no real reason to worry. That constant sense of dread and worst-case thinking is more common than you think. But why does your brain do that? And more importantly, can you break the cycle? In this episode, Dr. David Carbonell, a clinical psychologist specializing in anxiety disorders and author of The Worry Trick: How Your Brain Tricks You Into Expecting the Worst (https://amzn.to/44b5MTJ) reveals the surprising reason we’re wired to expect the worst — and practical ways to quiet that anxious voice in your head. Did you know the font you choose can change how people feel, think, and even behave? From restaurant menus to warning signs, fonts quietly influence your decisions — often without you realizing it. Listen as we explore the surprising psychology of type with Sarah Hyndman, graphic designer and author of Why Fonts Matter. (https://amzn.to/3DTCvlA). Discover how something as simple as a typeface can evoke emotion, convey trust, and shape your perception in powerful ways. Ever get chills from your favorite song or feel an emotional high when the beat drops? You’re not imagining it — music can light up the brain much like a drug does. In this segment, we dive into the fascinating science behind music’s powerful effects on the mind and body. Discover why you crave certain songs, how music triggers pleasure and reward centers in the brain, and whether it’s possible to actually become addicted to music. https://www.dancemusicnw.com/study-proves-music-addiction/ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Keep it classic and cool with long lasting staples from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Whether you want to lose weight, grow thicker, fuller hair, or find relief for anxiety, Hers has you covered. Visit https://forhers.com/something to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 16 Aug 2025 - 1283 - What Algorithms Really Know About You & The Awesome Power of Doing Nothing
What if starting your meal with a mediocre appetizer could actually make the main course taste better? In this surprising opening segment, we dive into the psychology of taste and explore clever, science-backed tricks to make your food taste better — using your brain, not just your palate. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-3139067/ We’re all being influenced by algorithms every day — from what we watch and buy to what we believe. But what exactly is an algorithm, how does it work, and can you fight back against its invisible influence? Math professor and author Noah Giansiracusa breaks it all down and shares practical ways to take back control from the algorithms quietly shaping your life. Noah is an associate professor of mathematics at Bentley University whose work has appeared in Scientific American, Time, Wired, Slate, and the Washington Post. He is author of the book Robin Hood Math: Take Control of the Algorithms That Run Your Life (https://amzn.to/3U66fnt). Hard work gets all the glory — but rest may be just as essential. Neuroscientist Joseph Jebelli reveals how letting your brain idle can improve creativity, memory, and emotional health. Joseph is the author of the book The Brain at Rest (https://amzn.to/458OlWb). This conversation might just convince you that doing nothing is actually one of the healthiest things you can do. Think you lose most of your body heat through your head? Believe urine is sterile? Think again. In this quick and eye-opening segment, we bust some of the most common — and most stubborn — myths about your body that many people still believe. https://www.menshealth.com/health/a19547125/lies-about-your-body/?cid=isynd_PV_0615 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Keep it classic and cool with long lasting staples from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Whether you want to lose weight, grow thicker, fuller hair, or find relief for anxiety, Hers has you covered. Visit https://forhers.com/something to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 14 Aug 2025 - 1282 - Can You Be Bored to Death? & Why Thrill Seekers Seek Thrills
What if you were convinced you got a good night’s sleep even if you didn’t? It turns out what you believe can actually determine if you do or don’t feel tired the next day. How can this possibly be true? This episode starts with an explanation which could be very useful one day when you didn’t sleep well. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24417326/ Many times in your life you have felt totally bored. What exactly is boredom? Is it a feeling or maybe it is a lack of a feeling? Does feeling bored ever serve a purpose? Then there is that phrase, “I’m bored to death.” Can that actually happen – death by boredom? Here for a fascinating discussion on the topic of boredom is psychologist James Danckert, author of the book, Out of My Skull: The Psychology of Boredom (https://amzn.to/3ePmnsq). On one end of the scale are thrill seekers and daredevils who jump out of airplanes or climb dangerous mountains. On the other end of the scale are people who would rather stay home and read a book by the fire. What is the difference? What cause thrill seekers to do what they do? What is it they gain from those experiences? That is what Ken Carter is here to reveal. Ken is a board-certified clinical psychologist and professor of psychology at Oxford College of Emory University and author of the book Buzz!: Inside the Minds of Thrill-Seekers, Daredevils, and Adrenaline Junkies (https://amzn.to/35FIwCn) One day your car’s check engine light will come on. It’s a pretty vague warning that doesn’t tell you much. What could it be? Sometimes it’s nothing. In fact, often it is nothing. Listen as I reveal one of the most likely reasons it comes on and the simple fix. Source: Phil Edmonston author of The Lemon-Aid Car Guide (https://amzn.to/33wtJaC) PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Keep it classic and cool with long lasting staples from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Whether you want to lose weight, grow thicker, fuller hair, or find relief for anxiety, Hers has you covered. Visit https://forhers.com/something to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 11 Aug 2025 - 1281 - The Untold Stories of the Foods You Love & How the Internet Runs On Outrage - SYSK Choice
You probably have a drawer where you keep spare batteries for when you need them. But if some or all those batteries are loose and floating around that drawer, it could be dangerous. This episode begins with an explanation and a better way to store batteries. https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/612670/never-store-batteries-your-junk-drawer Just how French are French fries? Why are frankfurters also called hot dogs and why do we have 2 names. Why is it called cream soda when there is no cream in it. And since chickens don’t have fingers, where do chicken fingers come from? These are some of the questions we explore as we look at the interesting origins of some favorite foods with Kim Zachman author of There’s No Cream in Cream Soda: Facts and Folklore About Our Favorite Drinks (https://amzn.to/3QA1bay) and There’s No Ham in Hamburgers (https://amzn.to/47pasrQ). It is not an unusual experience to log in to social media and see something that outrages you. It happens frequently but is it deliberate? Why do we allow ourselves to be triggered by these things? This online outrage affects all of us and sometimes in very surprising ways. Here to explain how is Tobias Rose Stockwell. He is a writer and researcher whose work has been featured in The Atlantic, WIRED, NPR and the BBC. He is author of the book Outrage Machine: How Tech Amplifies Discontent, Disrupts Democracy―And What We Can Do About It (https://amzn.to/3QxXLVs). Have you ever left the grocery store on a hot summer day and worried about getting the food home quickly? After all, you don’t want things to thaw out or go bad. So realistically, how much time do you have before you need to worry? Listen and I’ll tell you what the science says. https://www.consumerreports.org/food-safety/keep-groceries-food-safe-in-hot-car/ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Keep it classic and cool with long lasting staples from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Whether you want to lose weight, grow thicker, fuller hair, or find relief for anxiety, Hers has you covered. Visit https://forhers.com/something to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 09 Aug 2025 - 1280 - The Secret Story of Your Private Life & How to Make the Best Use of Your Time
People don’t drown the way you think they do. Someone could drown right in front of you, and you might not notice. It happens all the time. This episode begins by revealing what to look for to spot a drowning person. https://www.thehealthy.com/first-aid/silent-signs-of-drowning/#ixzz3dGUMjhU8 In the United States, we have an expectation of privacy. We are entitled to a private life. But it wasn’t always that way. The idea of privacy is a fairly recent innovation. For a long time, the feeling was you don’t need a private life – unless of course, you have something to hide. Are you entitled to a private life? Is your privacy being eroded by government and technology? Listen as I discuss the history of and future of personal privacy with Tiffany Jenkins. She is a cultural historian and author of the book Strangers and Intimates: The Rise and Fall of Private Life (https://amzn.to/4f2wxAs). Do you feel in control of your time? Do you get the things done that are important? Managing time is tricky and complicated. Things change, priorities get shuffled and there is always more to do. How do you get a handle on it all? Here with some great help is Risa Williams, a psychotherapist, speaker, and wellness coach who specializes in time management and goal setting. Risa is author of the book Get Stuff Done Without the Stress (https://amzn.to/4m5Iw2A) Do pick-up lines ever work on women? What’s the best thing to say if you meet someone you are interested in? What should you not say? As you might imagine, there is research on this which I share in this episode. https://www.businessinsider.com/9-facts-about-flirting-2015-6? PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Keep it classic and cool with long lasting staples from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Whether you want to lose weight, grow thicker, fuller hair, or find relief for anxiety, Hers has you covered. Visit https://forhers.com/something to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 07 Aug 2025 - 1279 - Why We Care What Other People Think & How Social Media is Shaping Language
As people age, changes in the eyes require that some to get reading glasses to see things clearly close-up. What’s odd is that women seem to require reading glasses at an earlier age than men. Why? Listen as I reveal the interesting answer. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/06/120623144946.htm?utm_source=chatgpt.com We all want to get along and be liked but some people take it to the extreme. These are people pleasers. They worry about what other people think of them. If someone doesn’t return a phone call right away they fear that person is mad at them. If the boss offers criticism they worry they are going to be fired. You may be a people pleaser or know others who are. People pleasing is exhausting. Here with some insight and advice is Meg Josephson. She is a psychotherapist with a particular interest in this topic and she is the author of the book Are You Mad at Me?: How to Stop Focusing on What Others Think and Start Living for You (https://amzn.to/46dZjvR) Here is the link to Meg’s videos on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@megjosephson Social media and algorithms are impacting language in some ways you can’t imagine. While it is not unlike how other media (television, movies, books etc.) have altered language in the past, this is coming from a very different place for very different reasons. And the momentum seems to ramp up in middle schools. Here to explain this is Adam Aleksic, a linguist and content creator whose work has been mentioned in the New York Times, The Economist, and The Guardian. Adam is author a book called Algospeak: How Social Media Is Transforming the Future of Language (https://amzn.to/40Oc9gX) There are two theories on how to hang a roll of toilet paper. Some say the end should roll down the front while others say the end should roll down the back. Who is correct? Well, it depends. But I can tell you what the inventor of toilet paper had in mind. Listen and find out. https://www.digitaljournal.com/life/yes-there-is-a-correct-way-to-hang-toilet-paper/article/435790 PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Keep it classic and cool with long lasting staples from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Whether you want to lose weight, grow thicker, fuller hair, or find relief for anxiety, Hers has you covered. Visit https://forhers.com/something to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 04 Aug 2025 - 1278 - The Hidden Power of Sensitive People & The Intriguing Story of Recorded Sound - SYSK Choice
It might seem odd, but a lot of dogs get stolen in the United States. Like most other things, it’s all about money. This episode begins with an explanation and a warning about your pet. https://petkeen.com/dognapping-dog-theft-statistics/ Being sensitive is a good thing. Being told you are TOO sensitive is more of an insult. It is perceived as a weakness, as if there is something wrong and the way to fix it is to toughen up. That isn’t going to work according to Jenn Granneman. Yes, being sensitive can be difficult at times but it is also a superpower. Listen as Jenn champions those who are labeled “too sensitive” with research to support her beliefs. She also has some insight for those people who are not highly sensitive but have sensitive people in their lives. Jenn is author of the book Sensitive: The Hidden Power of the Highly Sensitive Person in a Loud, Fast, Too-Much World (https://amzn.to/456D3Qu). You probably don’t think about it but recorded sound plays a major role in your life. Music, podcasts, radio, movie and TV sound –it is all very important to us. From Thomas Edison’s first cylindrical recordings to today’s digital downloads and streaming, the history of recorded sound is a story worth hearing. And here to tell it is Jonathan Scott author of the book Into the Groove :The Story of Sound From Tin Foil to Vinyl (https://amzn.to/3Kh1d2Q). Even if it is only occasionally, there are still plenty of people who use paper checks to pay for things. If you are one of those people there is something you need to consider the next time you order new checks. https://www.idtheftcenter.org/ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Stick to the staples that last, with elevated essentials from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Hers is transforming women’s healthcare by providing access to affordable weight loss treatment plans, delivered straight to your door, if prescribed. Start your initial free online visit today at https://forhers.com/something DELL: Upgrade your learning experience during Dell Technologies’ Back to School event with AI PCs starting at $749.99! Discover a smarter way to learn at https://Dell.com/deals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 02 Aug 2025 - 1277 - Why You Buy: The Science of Shopping & Turning Setbacks Into Success
Your body temperature is about 98 degrees. So why does it feel so hot when you walk outside in 98-degree heat? Shouldn’t you feel just right? I’ll explain all this as I begin this episode. https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/50080/why-do-we-feel-hot-temperatures-lower-our-body-temp We all know that stores and online retailers use strategies to influence how we shop and how much we buy. There are the obvious ways they do it and some subtle ways you may miss. Yet, when you understand these strategies, it can make you a better shopper and make you immune to their manipulation. Here to take us behind the scenes of the retail world is Kate Hardcastle. She has worked with iconic brands such as Disney and American Express and she is the author of the book The Science of Shopping: How Psychology and Innovation Create a Winning Retail Strategy (https://amzn.to/3TLXgrr). Life is full of setbacks. You get fired, you break up with the love of your life, you get sick… there are always setbacks. Yet, you often hear people say in hindsight, “It was the best thing to ever happen to me!” As horrible as setbacks feel when they happen, they can set you up for great success. Here to explain how is Amy Shoenthal She is a journalist, marketing executive and author of the book The Setback Cycle: How Defining Moments Can Move Us Forward (https://amzn.to/44SQAgo). Here is the link to Amy’s website: http://www.thesetbackcycle.com Every summer you hear stories of people being attacked by an alligator or a shark or a bear. Those stories are scary but how common are animal attacks on humans? How vigilant should we be? Listen as I reveal some interesting statistics on animal attacks that may just ease your mind. https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/wonk/wp/2015/06/16/chart-the-animals-that-are-most-likely-to-kill-you-this-summer PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Stick to the staples that last, with elevated essentials from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Hers is transforming women’s healthcare by providing access to affordable weight loss treatment plans, delivered straight to your door, if prescribed. Start your initial free online visit today at https://forhers.com/something DELL: Upgrade your learning experience during Dell Technologies’ Back to School event with AI PCs starting at $749.99! Discover a smarter way to learn at https://Dell.com/deals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 31 Jul 2025 - 1276 - Why We Have Tip-of-the-Tongue Moments & How to Make Better Conversation
If you enjoy eating nuts – good for you! Nuts are healthy. But you might be surprised to hear just how healthy they are - and you don’t have to eat very many to get the benefits. This episode begins with a look at a fascinating study on nuts that has been going on for decades. https://www.herbazest.com/news/nut-consumption-may-prolong-life “It’s right on the tip of my tongue!” We have all had that experience of not being able to recall a word but feel like it is just out of reach. It’s different than simply not being able to recall something because you have forgotten it. This phenomenon is something people actually study and since it is something that has happened to you, I am sure you will find this fascinating. My guest is Anne Cleary, a professor of psychology at Colorado State University. Her research examines odd memory phenomena like déjà vu and these tip of the tongue experiences. She is author of a book called Tip of the Tongue States: Retrieval, Metacognition, and Experience (https://amzn.to/4eLbuST) Are you good at making conversation? Do you know how to assert yourself without being argumentative? Do you tend to talk too much when less would be better? Do you really listen to the other person or just wait for your chance to talk? Being good at conversation is a critical skill and one of the real experts at it is here to help. Jefferson Fisher is a lawyer and sought after speaker on the topic of verbal communication – and he is author of the bestselling book The Next Conversation: Argue Less, Talk More (https://amzn.to/3IpnddR). There is a pretty good chance that you are watering your lawn too much and doing it incorrectly. At least that is according to Consumer Reports. Listen as I reveal their expert advice that will save you time and money and still give you a beautiful green lawn. https://www.consumerreports.org/home-garden/lawn-care/lawn-care-tips-to-get-yard-ready-for-summer-a2730228925/ PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Stick to the staples that last, with elevated essentials from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Hers is transforming women’s healthcare by providing access to affordable weight loss treatment plans, delivered straight to your door, if prescribed. Start your initial free online visit today at https://forhers.com/something DELL: Upgrade your learning experience during Dell Technologies’ Back to School event with AI PCs starting at $749.99! Discover a smarter way to learn at https://Dell.com/deals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 28 Jul 2025 - 1275 - How to Learn Things Faster & How to Have an Argument-Free Relationship - SYSK Choice
Things can get dangerously hot in the summer. The interior of your car, the sidewalk, even your patio furniture can heat up in the summer sun and burn you. Listen as I reveal just how hot these things can get. https://www.rd.com/article/things-that-get-dangerously-hot/ You’ve likely noticed that some things are harder to learn than others and that some people learn faster than others. Are there ways to make learning easier and quicker for those of us who aren't rocket scientists? Yes, according to my guest Daniel Willingham. He is a professor of psychology at the University of Virginia and author of several books including Outsmart Your Brain: Why Learning is Hard and How You Can Make It Easy (https://amzn.to/43Lkb8N). Listen as he explores the fascinating process of how we learn. People argue a lot. And it makes you wonder if it ever does any good. Does arguing actually accomplish something or does it leave people more upset and polarized than before? Perhaps there a better way to resolve problems without arguing. That is what my guest Linda Bloom specializes in. She and her husband Charlie are veteran marriage counselors and seminar leaders who have authored several books including An End to Arguing: 101 Valuable Lessons for All Relationships (https://amzn.to/3Y5J5yR). It's common advice that when you are mad, you should count to 10 before you say anything. That way, you give yourself a chance to calm down and not say something you later regret. Is that really a good strategy? Listen to hear some interesting research on the topic. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/sciencetech/article-2168645/Angry-Counting-worst-thing–makes-furious.html PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Stick to the staples that last, with elevated essentials from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Hers is transforming women’s healthcare by providing access to affordable weight loss treatment plans, delivered straight to your door, if prescribed. Start your initial free online visit today at https://forhers.com/something DELL: Upgrade your learning experience during Dell Technologies’ Back to School event with AI PCs starting at $749.99! Discover a smarter way to learn at https://Dell.com/deals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Sat, 26 Jul 2025 - 1274 - How Therapy-Speak is Destroying Relationships & Why We Need More Fun at Work
Like a supermarket, major airports are laid out and configured to try to get you to spend money while you are there. Listen and discover how they do it and when you are most likely to open your wallet at an airport. https://www.neatorama.com/2015/06/11/12-Behind-the-Scenes-Secrets-of-Airports/ How many times have you used "therapy-speak" to descibe someone - words like toxic or narcissist or psychopath? It’s a handy and very descriptive way to talk about someone – but there are potential problems with doing it. Those words are often used by psychologists to describe serious conditions that most of us are not equipped to diagnose. And there are other bigger concerns which you will hear about from my guest, Isabelle Morley. She is a clinical psychologist, couples therapist and a contributing author to Psychology Today. She is also author of the book called They're Not Gaslighting You: Ditch the Therapy Speak and Stop Hunting for Red Flags in Every Relationship (https://amzn.to/40xjTUr) Fun and work are a bit like oil and water – at least in many workplaces. But maybe if work was more fun, people would do better work, stay at their jobs longer and improve the quality of their lives. So says my guest, Bree Groff. She is a leading expert in company culture and a senior advisor at the global consultancy SYPartners. Her clients have included leaders at Target, Pfizer, Microsoft, Calvin Klein, NBCUniversal, and Alphabet. Bree is author of the book Today Was Fun: A Book About Work (Seriously) (https://amzn.to/4kwSklg) Listen as she explores ways to incorporate more fun at work and why it is such a great idea. UPS drivers drive a lot. And you just might find that some of the strategies and hacks they use to navigate around town could be useful to you. Listen as I reveal some driving tips from UPS. https://www.mentalfloss.com/article/60556/18-secrets-ups-drivers PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Stick to the staples that last, with elevated essentials from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Hers is transforming women’s healthcare by providing access to affordable weight loss treatment plans, delivered straight to your door, if prescribed. Start your initial free online visit today at https://forhers.com/something DELL: Upgrade your learning experience during Dell Technologies’ Back to School event with AI PCs starting at $749.99! Discover a smarter way to learn at https://Dell.com/deals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Thu, 24 Jul 2025 - 1273 - Real Reasons for Your Strange Thoughts & How Small Acts Change Lives
“Let me sleep on it.” That always seems like a good idea when a big decision has to be made. But is there true wisdom in that advice? This episode starts with the answer. https://www.newswise.com/articles/sleep-on-it-is-sound-science-based-advice# Ever feel like you are being watched? Ever walk into a room for something and forget why you did? Ever felt “in the zone” – like you could do no wrong? We all have these weird mental experiences but why? Do they serve a purpose? Here to reveal the explanation behind these and other similar things is Dr. Jen Martin. She is an award-winning educator from the University of Melbourne and author of the book Why Am I Like This?: The Science Behind Your Weirdest Thoughts and Habits (https://amzn.to/3C5wgdb) According to research, the average person will influence 80,000 people in their lifetime. That’s a lot of potential to do good. With simple acts and kind words you can do more for people than you can imagine - if you do it right. That’s according to my guest Tommy Spaulding. He is an author, speaker and former CEO of Up With People. He is also author of the book The Gift Of Influence: Creating Life-Changing and Lasting Impact in Your Everyday Interactions (https://amzn.to/3e0FXSl). Listen as Tommy tells inspiring personal stories that will motivate you to make a difference in someone’s life. What’s one phrase that a good negotiator will never use? Listen and as I reveal that phrase you want to avoid because it could come back to bite you. Source: Jim Thomas author of Negotiate To Win (https://amzn.to/3V0G4h4). PLEASE SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS!!! SHOPIFY: Shopify is the commerce platform for millions of businesses around the world! To start selling today, sign up for your $1 per month trial at https://Shopify.com/sysk INDEED: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to get your jobs more visibility at https://Indeed.com/SOMETHING right now! QUINCE: Stick to the staples that last, with elevated essentials from Quince! Go to https://Quince.com/sysk for free shipping on your order and 365 day returns! HERS: Hers is transforming women’s healthcare by providing access to affordable weight loss treatment plans, delivered straight to your door, if prescribed. Start your initial free online visit today at https://forhers.com/something DELL: Upgrade your learning experience during Dell Technologies’ Back to School event with AI PCs starting at $749.99! Discover a smarter way to learn at https://Dell.com/deals Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mon, 21 Jul 2025
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