Smart People Podcast

What if brainwashing isn’t just a Cold War relic, but something we’re all quietly experiencing every day? In this episode, Harvard professor and author Rebecca Lemov joins us to unpack the hidden mechanics of mind control—from historical POW camps to the subtle pull of your social media feed. We talk about the concept of “ungrounding,” how it sets the stage for behavior change, and why no one is immune—not even you. Rebecca also shares a deeply personal story that reshaped her understanding of influence, control, and identity. This isn’t fearmongering—it’s a powerful invitation to look more closely at how your reality is shaped. Eye-opening, timely, and surprisingly relatable. Tune in—you’ll walk away questioning more than you expected. Rebecca's book, The Instability of Truth: Brainwashing, Mind Control, and Hyper-Persuasion, is available now! Find out more about Rebecca at histsci.fas.harvard.edu/people/rebecca-lemov. Support the Show - Become a Patron! Help us grow and become a Patron today: https://www.patreon.com/smartpeoplepodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're sharing a new show we think you'll enjoy! If you ever wonder, “Where is all our money going?”—you’re not alone. In episode 192 of Money For Couples titled, “We spend 98% of what we make—Where is it all going?”, you’ll hear real stories and practical strategies to help you align on finances, stop money fights, and build a shared financial vision. We’re going to play a portion of that episode for you now. If you want to hear more actionable strategies to build your rich life today, search “Money For Couples” wherever you listen to this podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever wonder why a routine checkup can leave you more anxious than assured? In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Erika Schwartz—author of Don’t Let Your Doctor Kill You—who’s on a mission to dismantle the fear culture in modern medicine. If you’re tired of endless tests and pill-pushing, get ready for real talk about where to draw the line.Think you need a dozen tests to explain why you’re tired? Dr. Erika says it’s time to get back to basics—understanding your body and trusting your instincts. We explore hormones, off-label prescriptions, and what really stands in the way of personalized care. If you’re ready to break free from worst-case scenarios and finally find a healthcare partner who listens, don’t miss this episode. Your wellness is about to get a major upgrade. Find out more about Dr. Schwartz at drerika.com. Support the Show - Become a Patron! Help us grow and become a Patron today: https://www.patreon.com/smartpeoplepodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

Sex and gender are at the center of heated debates—but what if much of what we believe isn’t rooted in biological truth? In this episode, Dr. Nathan Lents, author of The Sexual Evolution, reveals what nature and evolution really tell us about sex, gender, and human relationships. You’ll discover why diversity in biology—whether in sex, gender, or mating strategies—isn’t just common but essential for survival. We explore surprising examples from the animal kingdom, including same-sex partnerships, sex-changing species, and why monogamy is far less “natural” than we think. Dr. Lents challenges the idea of strict binaries and explains how understanding nature’s complexity can reshape how we view ourselves and others. If you’re ready to replace myths with science and gain fresh insights into what makes us human, this episode is a must-listen. Support the Show - Become a Patron! Help us grow and become a Patron today: https://www.patreon.com/smartpeoplepodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

🚨 AI is changing healthcare—are we ready? 🚨 In this episode, we sit down with Dr. Lloyd Minor, Dean of the Stanford School of Medicine, to explore how artificial intelligence is revolutionizing medicine—from diagnosing diseases faster to improving patient care and even reshaping drug development. But with all the promise, there are major challenges: Can we trust AI with life-or-death decisions? Will it help fix our broken healthcare system or make things worse? Dr. Minor breaks down the good, the bad, and the future of AI in medicine, plus what you need to know about how it’s already being used today. This is the conversation that could shape the future of your health—don’t miss it! 🎧👇 #AI #HealthcareInnovation #Medicine #SmartPeoplePodcast Support the Show - Become a Patron! Help us grow and become a Patron today: https://www.patreon.com/smartpeoplepodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

In this episode, Adam Galinsky, acclaimed professor and TED speaker, dives into the fascinating world of social hierarchy, influence, and inspiration. From his role as an expert witness in high-profile cases like Dominion vs. Fox News to his groundbreaking research on human dynamics, Adam shares how understanding social structures can empower us to inspire and connect with others. We explore the leader amplification effect, the surprising power of small actions, and the keys to fostering better relationships through empathy and acknowledgment. Adam also reveals how simple yet meaningful practices can help us navigate challenges and stay aligned with our values. Whether you're looking to improve your interactions, deepen your influence, or just better understand the psychology behind human connection, this conversation offers insights you won’t want to miss. Adam's book, Inspire: The Universal Path for Leading Yourself and Others, is available wherever books are sold. You can learn more about Adam at adamgalinsky.com. Support the Show - Become a Patron! Help us grow and become a Patron today: https://www.patreon.com/smartpeoplepodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

In this episode of Smart People Podcast, Dr. Alexandra Sowa, an expert in obesity and metabolic health, reveals the groundbreaking science behind GLP-1 medications like Ozempic and their impact on weight loss and overall health. Dr. Sowa explains how hormones like insulin, GLP-1, and leptin influence hunger, satiety, and fat storage—and how these signals can become disrupted, leading to weight gain and metabolic dysfunction. She discusses why traditional weight loss advice like "calories in, calories out" often fails, especially in the modern world of ultra-processed foods. You’ll also learn how GLP-1s interact with the brain to reduce food cravings and regulate appetite, offering new hope for those struggling with weight loss. From resetting hunger levels to addressing neurohormonal imbalances, Dr. Sowa provides actionable insights for anyone interested in improving their metabolic health. Whether you’re curious about these medications or want to better understand the science of metabolism, this episode is packed with eye-opening information. Dr. Sowa's book, The Ozempic Revolution: A Doctor's Proven Plan for Success to Help You Reverse Obesity, End Yo-Yo Dieting, and Protect Yourself from Disease, is available wherever books are sold. You can learn more about Dr. Sowa at alexandrasowamd.com. Support the Show - Become a Patron! Help us grow and become a Patron today: https://www.patreon.com/smartpeoplepodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

What if you could taste intensity, experience life fully, and connect deeply with existence? Join us for a fascinating conversation exploring the world of mysticism. We delve into the concept of mysticism as a mode of experience and way of life, beyond religious practice. Discover how embracing the unknown can transform your life. Our guest shares insights from their latest book, revealing the practical possibilities of mystical experience. From intense aliveness to ecstatic living, this episode will challenge your perceptions. Simon's book, Mysticism, is available wherever books are sold. You can learn more about Simon at simon-critchley.com. Support the Show - Become a Patron! Help us grow and become a Patron today: https://www.patreon.com/smartpeoplepodcast Sponsors: Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/spp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

Join award-winning neurologist Richard Cytowic as he reveals the surprising reasons behind our screen addictions. Our brains, unchanged since the Stone Age, are woefully unprepared for the temptations of modern technology. Cytowic explains how ancient instincts like desire, reward and competition are hijacked by Big Tech, leading to unhealthy attachments. Discover the hidden mechanisms driving your screen behavior and, more importantly, learn practical strategies to regain control. Take the first step towards breaking the cycle of addiction and reclaim your life in the Screen Age. Richard's book, Your Stone Age Brain in the Screen Age: Coping with Digital Distraction and Sensory Overload, is available wherever books are sold. You can learn more about Richard at cytowic.net. Support the Show - Become a Patron! Help us grow and become a Patron today: https://www.patreon.com/smartpeoplepodcast Sponsors: Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/spp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For decades, “disruption” and “change” have been seen as essential to business growth and success. Whether it’s a merger or re-org or a new office layout, change has become the ultimate easy button for leaders, who pursue it with abandon, unleashing a torrent of disruption on employees. The result is what our guest calls “life in the blender”—a perpetual cycle of upheaval, uncertainty, and unease. Join us this week as we discuss the current state of change in corporate America, why change is not the same as improvement, and what we can do about it. Ashley's book, The Problem with Change: And the Essential Nature of Human Performance, is available wherever books are sold. You can learn more about Ashley at ashleygoodall.com. Support the Show - Become a Patron! Help us grow and become a Patron today: https://www.patreon.com/smartpeoplepodcast Sponsors: Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/spp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today, most office workers are expected to operate with industrial-era efficiency. Yet the work that matters most in our technology-dominated workplace–generating brilliant ideas, solving complex problems, and learning–can’t be manufactured like outputs on an assembly line. Instead, we need a new, HYPEREFFICIENT way of working: rather than imposing the rhythms of work on our brains, Dr. Mithu Storoni proposes we impose the rhythm of our brains on our work. Storoni explains that our brains function like a car’s engine, with multiple gears that put our brains in optimal mode for different mental challenges. Drawing on the latest research, she shows us how to seamlessly shift our brains into the best gear for the tasks we need to be doing, so we can perform at our best throughout the day, every day. Dr. Storoni's book, Hyperefficient: Optimize Your Brain to Transform the Way You Work, is available wherever books are sold. You can learn more about Dr. Storoni at mithustoroni.com. Support the Show - Become a Patron! Help us grow and become a Patron today: https://www.patreon.com/smartpeoplepodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you tired of quick fixes and short-term thinking? Do you want to make a lasting impact but feel stuck in outdated systems? In this episode we interview one of the all-time greats, Seth Godin, about his new book, This Is Strategy: Make Better Plans. Tune in to learn how to drive positive change, whether you’re revolutionizing an industry, sparking a movement, or building a career. Seth's book, This Is Strategy: Make Better Plans, is available wherever books are sold. You can learn more about Seth at seths.blog. Support the Show - Become a Patron! Help us grow and become a Patron today: https://www.patreon.com/smartpeoplepodcast Sponsors: Babbel - Get 60% off your Babbel subscription at babbel.com/spp Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/spp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How does the wealthiest country on earth run out of protective gear in the middle of a public health catastrophe? How do its parents find themselves unable to locate crucially needed infant formula? How do its largest companies spend billions of dollars making cars that no one can drive for a lack of chips? The last few years have radically highlighted the intricacy and fragility of the global supply chain. In this episode we speak with award-winning journalist Peter S. Goodman about the inner workings of our supply chain and the factors that have led to its constant, dangerous vulnerability. Peter's book, How the World Ran Out of Everything: Inside the Global Supply Chain, is available wherever books are sold. You can learn more about Peter at petersgoodman.com. Support the Show - Become a Patron! Help us grow and become a Patron today: https://www.patreon.com/smartpeoplepodcast Sponsors: Babbel - Get 60% off your Babbel subscription at babbel.com/spp Shopify - Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial period at shopify.com/spp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are you tired of feeling trapped by the pressure to be perfect? In this episode, Dr. Mary E. Anderson, author of The Happy High Achiever, shares practical strategies to help you overcome perfectionism and unlock your full potential. You'll learn how to recognize and challenge the limiting thoughts and behaviors holding you back, and discover science-backed tools to cultivate happiness, confidence, and success. Dr. Anderson reveals the 8 Essentials that have transformed her clients' lives, from navigating uncertainty to leveraging gratitude for success. Join us as we explore the liberating power of embracing imperfection and embracing your true potential. Dr. Anderson's book, The Happy High Achiever: 8 Essentials to Overcome Anxiety, Manage Stress, and Energize Yourself for Success―Without Losing Your Edge, is available wherever books are sold! You can learn more about Dr. Anderson at maryandersonphd.com. Support the Show - Become a Patron! Help us grow and become a Patron today: https://www.patreon.com/smartpeoplepodcast Sponsors: Babbel - Get 60% off your Babbel subscription at babbel.com/spp LinkedIn Sales Navigator - Try LinkedIn Sales Navigator and get a sixty-day free trial at linkedin.com/smartpeople. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we're giving you an episode of another podcast we'd think you'd really like. It's called Success Story with Scott D. Clary and the episode is Paul Shapiro, CEO and Co-Founder Of The Better Meat Co. | Growing Business In The Meat-Alternatives Industry. Give it a try. We think you'll like it. If you do, give Success Story with Scott D. Clary a follow!