An audio essay podcast where we take the time to explore intellectually stimulating topics of interest. A diverse range of topics centering on big ideas, mental models, and thinking tools from across different disciplines. We expand on these with a range of related ideas, concepts, and wisdom in the form of audio essays, relevant both to specific groups but still of interest and applicability to a wide range of listeners, often somewhat related to self-improvement topics.
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Lessons from the tools of home improvement projects, applying the philosophical toolkit to better understand leverage, planning, and other relevant models.
32:22
32:22
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:22
In this audio essay episode, the multifaceted philosophies embedded in home improvement tasks are elucidated, revealing their broader implications for life and personal growth. The leverage gained from using a tool like a lever in home improvement is paralleled with its metaphorical application in personal, professional, and financial spheres, wher…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
The virtue of frugality vs. the opportunities of wise spending. Weighing quality that lasts vs. choosing minimum viable purchases to achieve your needs.
29:43
29:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:43
In this audio essay episode, the speaker delves into the complex relationship between the disciplines of frugality and wise spending and their effects on financial decision-making. Frugality, influenced by Stoic philosophy, emphasizes simplicity and minimizes expenses to increase satisfaction, acting as a guide to financial virtue. Meanwhile, wise …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Building muscle and staying fit at any age without using any weights or equipment - perspectives on self-sufficiency in fitness and life for the aspiring spartan philosopher
32:16
32:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:16
In this audio essay episode, the enduring pursuit of building muscle and attaining fitness is explored through the lens of ancient Spartan philosophy, emphasizing self-reliance and austere discipline. This approach to physical excellence is underpinned by calisthenics, the art of using one's body weight as resistance, and involves foundational exer…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
The housing crisis and why smaller houses could save us from excessive responsibilities, sustainability requirements, and overwhelming maintenance - perspectives on when less is actually more
29:16
29:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:16
In this audio essay episode, the concept of smaller houses is discussed as a possible solution to the housing crisis, with the idea that "less is more" holding strong practical implications for living more sustainably and intentionally. Highlighted are historical endorsements of simplicity from King Solomon to Seneca, who pointed to moderation as a…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Finding the right balance between action and planning, strategy vs. tactics, and concentrated intensity vs. thoughtful awareness, when getting things done.
30:06
30:06
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:06
In this audio essay episode, the dynamic between strategy and tactics in achieving goals was masterfully likened to a symphony, where the harmonization of action and planning plays a pivotal role. The ancient Greek concepts of Kairos and Chronos were introduced to represent the critical moment of action and the systematic unfolding of plans, respec…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Epictetus and the stoic notion of making do with less vs. living a life of abundance. Fear-setting and needs vs. wants.
29:35
29:35
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:35
In this audio essay episode, the author explores the profound wisdom of Stoic philosopher Epictetus on the topic of contentment and the virtues of simplicity in life. The episode begins by contextualizing Epictetus as a figure who emerged from slavery to offer timeless insights on human flourishing, emphasizing the value of focusing on what is with…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
The power of compounding and the heuristic of the rule of 72 - Appreciate the importance of saving and investing even with lower income and uncertainty in life.
29:50
29:50
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:50
In this audio essay episode, the author explores the concept of compounding in financial growth, likening it to the natural forces that shape landscapes over time. Compounding in finance is where earnings on an investment earn further interest or dividends, which are then reinvested to generate additional earnings. This cycle of reinvestment leads …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Strategic career planning in case you run out of options. Knowledge for increasing your personal value, employability, motivation, and morale while you search.
30:52
30:52
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:52
In this audio essay episode, the narrative tackles the multifaceted nature of career crossroads, positioning it as an opportunity for significant professional development and personal growth. It proposes a multidimensional approach for strategic career planning, drawing on lessons from diverse disciplines to navigate the intricacies of the modern j…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
When fungi aren't fun. Deadly toxic black mold exposure hidden in homes, internal body infections and candida, and the frameworks for deciding how to let go and move towards health
30:37
30:37
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:37
In this audio essay episode, the speaker highlights the danger of toxic black mold (Stachybotrys chartarum) in homes, emphasizing its ability to grow undetected in moist environments and the severe health risks it presents, including allergic reactions, respiratory issues, and even neurological damage. The essay draws attention to the covert nature…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Setting and attaining goals through the power of Reverse Engineering - Working backwards towards the first principles of achievement
32:19
32:19
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:19
In this audio essay episode, the speaker expounds on the concept of reverse engineering in the context of setting and achieving goals. Reverse engineering is presented as a deconstructive process where an end goal is divided into smaller, manageable components. This method directs one to work backward from the desired outcome to the starting point.…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Small things for big effects, the nearly invisible beneficial microbes in foods, ferments, and the beneficial garden plant soil food web vs. the microbes that infect and rob us of our health
34:16
34:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:16
In this audio essay episode, the speaker examines the often-overlooked world of beneficial microbes and their critical role in human health and ecological balance. Emphasizing the vastness of the microscopic realm, the essay discusses the 'probiotic power' of microbes, particularly in the context of fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, and komb…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Planning for death, fear setting, steps to take, philosophical aids for mortality
29:08
29:08
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:08
In this audio essay episode, the concept of strategic death planning is introduced as an essential and holistic part of personal strategic planning. This process goes beyond drafting legal documents and extends to embracing the inevitability of death as a catalytic force for deliberate living and intentional legacy-building. The essay highlights ho…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Systems Thinking: feedback loops and their use for positive habits, and self-improvement for worldly success through strategic considerations
30:32
30:32
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:32
In this audio essay episode, the intrinsic nature of feedback loops and their integral role in shaping one's habits and striving towards worldly success are thoroughly examined. The discussion begins with delineating the two types of feedback loops—positive, which magnify behaviors, and negative, which aim to preserve system equilibrium—as critical…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Words as World-Builders: The Power of Language from the Bible to NLP
28:36
28:36
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:36
In this audio essay episode, the transformative power of language is discussed, examining its role in shaping personal and societal realities. The essay traverses ancient philosophical traditions, such as the Logos, neurolinguistic programming (NLP), and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), highlighting language's capacity to alter perceptions and a…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Nature Walks and Shower Thoughts: Unlocking Your Inner Genius
33:05
33:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
33:05
In this audio essay episode, we explore the Eureka Effect—a term used to describe the profound cognitive phenomenon of sudden insight or the moment when a solution to a problem becomes clear. This effect, akin to a "cognitive rebirth," is an intriguing subject stretching across various disciplines, including psychology, neuroscience, and even art a…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Freedom through discipline: Rules to live by, insights from the 10 Commandments, Code of Hammurabi , Yoga's virtuous restraints: Yamas & Niyamas,& the Buddhist Eightfold path.
28:47
28:47
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:47
In this audio essay episode, the profound entwinement of freedom and discipline is explored through the lens of historical, legal, and moral structures, particularly focusing on the Ten Commandments and the Code of Hammurabi. These ancient frameworks promote predictability and trust within society, setting necessary boundaries that paradoxically al…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Personal responsibility and the art of self-reliance for the modern philosopher apprentice
30:53
30:53
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:53
In this audio essay episode, the concept of self-sufficiency is examined in depth through the lens of the modern philosopher apprentice. The journey toward self-sufficiency is framed as an extension of personal responsibility and growth, transcending simple physical or economic independence. Stoicism, with its emphasis on controlling only internal …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Action and Intention: Immanuel Kant and the keys to morality and karma for the modern yogi philosopher
30:23
30:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:23
In this audio essay episode, we are introduced to the central elements of Immanuel Kant's moral philosophy, focusing on the Categorical Imperative's role as a guide for ethical living. Kant's formula for moral conduct — to act only in ways that one would will to become universal law — is analyzed for its emphasis on universality and impartiality. T…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Philosophical razors and related models for strategic thinking like a modern day Sun Tzu in entrepreneurship and life.
32:25
32:25
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:25
In this audio essay episode, the speaker discusses the value of philosophical razors, strategic thinking tools originally conceived by philosophers, in modern life and entrepreneurship. Philosophical razors such as Occam's Razor, which promotes simplicity and eschews unnecessary assumptions, and Hanlon's Razor, which suggests miscommunication rathe…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Philosophical perspectives on the nature of the soul: Current religions views on the human soul vs. what will differentiate man from artificial intelligence
33:03
33:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
33:03
In this audio essay episode, we examine the concept of the human soul across various religious traditions and its intriguing relationship with the advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). The soul, revered across cultures as a spiritual essence, is perceived differently by each religious framework; Hinduism describes it as the eternal Atman, B…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Creativity with and without A.I. , Artificial Intelligence as an extension of human creativity or the end of human creativity?
33:07
33:07
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
33:07
In this audio essay episode, the relationship between human creativity and artificial intelligence (AI) is intensely scrutinized. The episode starts by posing the question of whether AI is merely a tool that serves to enhance human creativity or if it signals the beginning of the end for the uniqueness of human inventiveness. It debates whether cre…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Heart coherence along with intentionally felt positive emotions: how to live a more vibrant and healthy life with the wisdom of the heart and modern insights from science to spirituality.
30:41
30:41
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:41
In this audio essay, we cover how heart coherence represents a physiological state reflecting the heart's rhythmic balance, which correlates with emotional well-being, resilience, and overall health. This state is facilitated through positive emotional states like gratitude, love, and joy, which can enhance communication between the heart and brain…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
The wisdom of microeconomics and behavioral economics for the everyday individual to the abundance seeking entrepreneur
32:24
32:24
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:24
This audio essay covers how microeconomic principles, such as supply and demand, opportunity cost, comparative advantage, marginal thinking, elasticity, and the recognition of the sunk cost fallacy, are pivotal for personal financial growth and decision-making. By applying these concepts, individuals can make more calculated decisions that align wi…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Stoicism: Insights and Other Tools for a More Resilient Life
31:16
31:16
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:16
This audio essay episode covers the pursuit of personal growth and resilience, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Stoicism emerge as pivotal philosophies for inner strength and composure. The audio essay begins with the core concept of CBT—cognitive distortions—which are inaccurate thought patterns that can lead to a pessimistic worldview, exem…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Importance of placement of attention and intention and the skill of reading for skill acquisition and habit formation self-improvement
31:10
31:10
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:10
This audio essay explores the critical importance of attention and intention as vital components for self-improvement and personal mastery. Comparing these elements to the oars of a rowboat, they are described as necessary for navigating the journey of skill acquisition and habit formation. Attention is emphasized as a critical resource, likened to…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
From blueberries to mct oil: the foods that might improve our cognitive function and the creativity frameworks to best use with our healthy brains to tackle life's challenges.
31:38
31:38
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:38
This audio essay explores nutritional neuroscience and its impact on cognitive functions, highlighting the direct correlation between what we eat and our brain's performance. Berries, particularly blueberries rich in anthocyanins, are emphasized for their role in protecting brain cells and promoting the birth of new neurons. The essay further discu…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Learning to learn: Mastering our ability to learn new things, from mnemonics and memory tips to nutrition and insights from science & psychology
31:03
31:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
31:03
In this audio essay, the narrator elucidates various strategies and concepts for enhancing learning and cognitive performance. The central idea emphasizes the human mind's complexity and the need to unlock its full potential using a combination of effective learning techniques. The narrator discusses Spaced Repetition, leveraging the forgetting cur…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Big ideas from Social Psychology and Sociology for more effective navigation of society and interpersonal relationships
34:05
34:05
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
34:05
In this audio essay we examine how the societal maze of relationships and social expectations requires a grasp on various psychological insights and sociological theories to navigate with purpose and poise. Social Identity Theory emphasizes the role of group affiliations in shaping our perceptions and interactions, advising reflection on in-groups,…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
From Aristotle and Epictetus to Abraham Maslow and Robert Cialdini: Ancient and modern teachings that have influenced our understanding of thinking and psychology.
28:26
28:26
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
28:26
This audio essay explores the lasting influence of philosophers Aristotle and Epictetus on the understanding of human thought and psychology. Aristotle's establishment of formal logic, specifically the syllogism, laid the groundwork for structured reasoning that is still essential today in a variety of disciplines. Aristotelian logic consists of pr…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
The power of feedback loops: reinforcing feedback loops vs. balancing feedback loops (and other mental models for dealing with complexity)
29:51
29:51
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:51
In this audio essay we cover the intricate dance of cause and effect within various systems, reinforcing feedback loops serve as the architects of either exponential growth or rapid decline. The summary emphasizes the stages involved in understanding and leveraging these loops for desired outcomes: identifying the loop through observation, mapping …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
The Stoicism of Epictetus and Marcus Aurelius for stress management and wisdom framework based living
29:23
29:23
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
29:23
In this audio essay, the enduring relevance of Stoicism is explored as a means of navigating the stresses of contemporary life. Stoicism, which emphasizes discerning what is within our control and what is not, allows for a more focused and tranquil approach to challenges. Epictetus, a prominent Stoic philosopher, laid out a simple framework by iden…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Generating and maintaining motivation - tips, tricks, and thoughts on getting results towards goals
32:55
32:55
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
32:55
In this audio essay we discuss how Motivation is a multifaceted and dynamic force essential for progress, innovation, and personal fulfillment. Exploring various theoretical frameworks, like Self-Determination Theory, highlights the importance of autonomy, competence, and relatedness in sustaining motivation. Practical strategies for maintaining mo…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Disruptive strategies, altered states and self-discipline tactics interact with achievement of objectives
30:48
30:48
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
30:48
In this audio essay, the narrative centers around the philosophy of progress as achieved through disruptive innovation and personal development. The concept of 'disruptive innovation' by Clayton Christensen is used to illustrate how new entities can revolutionize industries by altering fundamental rules, as seen with digital streaming and ride-shar…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Unanticipated plans, universal laws together with productivity systems couple with increased productivity
45:42
45:42
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
45:42
This audio essay explores how life's unpredictability can serve as a catalyst for growth, rather than just being a disruption. It discusses the Law of Adaptation as a principle that can measure resilience. Moreover, the balance of chaos and order is noted to aid creative problem-solving and adaptability. Productivity systems like Getting Things Don…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Samurai Mindset: Mastering Focus and Self-Discipline
43:02
43:02
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
43:02
In this audio essay we cover the idea of how to Focus like a Samurai, harness meditative flow for goals and self-improvement objectives and personal growth. The ancient Samurai of Japan were esteemed not only for their martial prowess but for their strict adherence to the code of Bushido, which integrated principles of honor, courage, and self-disc…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
The power of relaxation, harnessing meditation and brain states for performance, self-improvement, and goals for growth.
46:03
46:03
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
46:03
This audio essay on the power of relaxation emphasizes the importance of relaxation and meditation as strategic tools for achieving peak performance in various fields. It discusses how mastering these practices can enhance cognitive functions such as learning, memory, creativity, and problem-solving. By entering lower-frequency brainwave states thr…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Wisdom of King Solomon: Proverbial wisdom combined with personal finance mastery, strategic habit formation, and intelligent goal setting for success.
44:45
44:45
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
44:45
In this audio essay we delve into the wisdom of King Solomon and his written proverbs. Solomon's wisdom is explored in the context of personal finance mastery. We also explore the concept of strategic habit formation and intelligent goal setting as it relates to his Biblical wisdom while sprinkling in knowledge from other ancient and modern sources…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Decision frameworks: mental models for financial success, personal finance, investing, and career advancement even in difficult economic times
43:43
43:43
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
43:43
This audio essay explores the importance of mental models in achieving financial wisdom and navigating the complexities of economic environments. It highlights key concepts such as opportunity cost, which requires considering the benefits of unchosen alternatives; margin of safety, which involves creating a buffer to protect against uncertainties; …
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Unique methods, the book: The Kybalion, and strategic thinking have an impact on personal wellbeing
37:33
37:33
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
37:33
In this audio essay, the ancient Hermetic teachings of "The Kybalion" are examined as a profound guide for personal transformation and wellbeing. The text, attributed to the elusive Three Initiates, offers seven principles that provide insight into the workings of the universe and the individual's place within it. These principles serve as more tha…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Unexpected patterns: Gratitude journaling together with self-directed learning
41:59
41:59
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
41:59
In this audio essay, we explore the intricate connection between gratitude journaling and self-directed learning, two practices that may initially seem unrelated but that intertwine to significantly enhance personal growth and academic achievement. Gratitude journaling, often linked to improved well-being, proves to be a potent complement to self-d…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
How stoicism and radical acceptance can benefit happiness and effectiveness in modern life
39:27
39:27
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
39:27
Another audio essay with today's topic on stoicism. In today's fast-paced digital era, the ancient philosophy of Stoicism has re-emerged as a guide for maintaining inner peace amidst the chaos. Stoicism teaches mindfulness, emotional discipline, and acceptance of what we cannot control, providing practical tools for living a balanced life. It encou…
…
continue reading
![Artwork](/static/images/128pixel.png)
1
Mental models and thinking frameworks for the indie software developer (and other smart people)
2:05:14
2:05:14
Play later
Play later
Lists
Like
Liked
2:05:14
In episode 1 of The Infinite Knowledge Podcast we cover a wide assortment of mental models and cognitive frameworks that are useful to anyone, however we focus the use case in this episode on independent software developers, solopreneurs of the coding world. The models we explore are applicable and useful to anyone in any industry as well. Framewor…
…
continue reading