Best Herman Martinus Podcasts (2024)

1
Our City Dweller's Dilemma: Affording Housing in Urban Hotspots | E71 40:04

11d ago40:04

40:04

In this episode of The Idea Roastery, Herman and Jason dive deep into the complex world of housing and property investment. They explore the often-overlooked economics of buying versus renting, challenging conventional wisdom about home ownership. The hosts share personal insights, discuss innovative solutions to housing crises, and examine how tec…

1
Hunger Games: How New Drugs Are Changing the Obesity Landscape | E70 35:19

10d ago35:19

35:19

In this thought-provoking episode of The Idea Roastery, hosts Jason and Herman dive into the controversial world of new weight-loss drugs. They explore the effectiveness, potential drawbacks, and wider implications of these "miracle" medications that promise to combat obesity. The conversation touches on everything from the science behind appetite …

1
Unmanned Uprising: Drones Changing the Rules of Modern Warfare | E69 29:48

25d ago29:48

29:48

In this episode Herman and Jason explore the rapidly evolving landscape of drone warfare. From consumer drones modified as offensive weapons for Ukraine to autonomous attack drones rendering expensive military hardware obsolete, this episode dives into how inexpensive drone technology is disrupting conventional warfare. Connect with Herman: https:/…

1
Dissecting the Do-Gooding: Unpacking the Complexities of Doing Good | E68 28:41

3M ago28:41

28:41

In this episode we engage in a discussion about the complexities of public benefit organizations and charitable giving. We explore the nuances of for-profit companies with social impact arms, the challenges of quantifying the value of different causes, and the potential pitfalls of well-intentioned charity efforts. We give some personal anecdotes a…

1
Apple Vision Pro: Gimmick or Game-Changer | E67 27:56

4M ago27:56

27:56

In this episode we dissect the fascinating concept of spatial computing, envisioning personalized virtual workspaces tailored to individual preferences, be it a cozy cabin or a lunar landscape. Our exploration ventures into potential applications, from remote industrial machinery assistance and immersive training simulations to autonomous vehicle o…

1
Inside the Walled Gardens: The Real Cost of App Stores | E66 33:13

4M ago33:13

33:13

In this episode, Herman and Jason download on the apps taking up valuable real estate on their phones, unpack the debate between web and native apps, and hash out whether app store gatekeepers like Apple and Google deserve their hefty cut. From EU regulations shaking up digital ecosystems to the browser wars heating up, they tackle a few topics in …

1
Bots vs. Humans: Who Will Write the Future of the Internet | E65 35:33

5M ago35:33

35:33

Intrigued by the idea of AI writing your news and bots gaming the system? This episode of The Idea Roastery explores the mind-bending possibilities and potential pitfalls of a future internet dominated by large language models (LLMs). AI-generated articles: Will bots become the new journalists, churning out content at lightning speed? And who owns …

1
Mining Your Mind: How Writing Helps Unearth Your Inner Thoughts | E64 33:58

6M ago33:58

33:58

Heman and Jason dive into the joy of writing - from keeping paper journals to publishing blogs. They explore writing as thinking, computational offloading, and more. The joy of writing by hand with pen and paper, and the ubiquity of paper as a writing medium Different types of journaling - autobiographical vs thinking/analysis - and the benefits of…

1
Brewing and Pixels: Setting Goals for 2024 | E63 28:26

6M ago28:26

28:26

In this episode, Jason and Herman have a casual discussion about goal setting and New Year's resolutions, sharing their perspectives on effective goal setting strategies like working backwards to define what success looks like and being intentional in choosing just one or two focused goals. They talk about some of their personal goals and niche int…

1
Refections on 2023: A Year in Climate, Energy, and AI | E62 35:30

7M ago35:30

35:30

The Idea Roastery is back for the end of 2023 and we're taking a deep dive into climate change, energy, and AI. We'll discuss the increasing population and the EU's ban on petrol and fossil fuel based cars, advances in solar and wind energy, and the lack of a room temperature superconductor. We'll also explore the complexities of wish-making, the p…

1
Wired for the Future: The Rise of Electric Micro-Mobility | E61 28:31

7M ago28:31

28:31

In this episode of the Idea Roastery, we explore the potential of electric vehicles and sustainable transport systems in cities around the world. We discuss the advantages of electric vehicles, such as their cost efficiency and reliability, and the potential of trams, cycle routes and solar vehicle charging stations. We also consider the effects of…

1
The Great Return: Examining the Back to Office Movement | E60 23:45

7M ago23:45

23:45

This week we dig into the complex debate around return to office mandates emerging from major companies, analyzing the pros and cons of in-person versus remote work. Getting philosophical while drawing on current events and personal anecdotes, they discuss intriguing theories about corporate motivations, evaluate how work culture and productivity s…

1
Plastic Waste & Forever Chemicals - Is Filtering Our Future? | E59 24:07

7M ago24:07

24:07

This week we dive into the murky world of microplastics, examining how these tiny plastic particles have infiltrated our water systems, food supply, and even our bodies. While the immediate health impacts remain unclear, the hosts raise critical questions around contamination, inequality, and the inconvenient reality that certain ubiquitous plastic…

1
We probably need more trees | E58 29:47

9M ago29:47

29:47

In this episode, Jason and Herman explore the many benefits of trees and how they can improve our environment and well-being. We discuss how trees can create ideal conditions for rain, filter out pollution, reduce noise, and provide a habitat for wildlife. We also explore the difficulties of finding the right types of trees and flora. Trees can pro…

1
Is Open Source Broken? | E57 26:05

9M ago26:05

26:05

Join Herman and Jason in The Idea Roastery podcast as they discuss the complexities of open source software. They explore the pros and cons of open source software, the commercial incentives for companies to open source their products, and the challenges that arise when competitors use the open source code. They also look at examples of open source…

1
Essential Ingredients: Boiling Down Product Design Principles | E56 31:28

10M ago31:28

31:28

Join Herman Martinus and Jason Forte in The Idea Roastery as they discuss the importance of product design and how it can help people get things done. We explore the concept of affordability, the differences between physical and experiential design, and the idea of having an oversupply of features. We then compare two popular task management tools,…

1
Staying Motivated: Personal Strategies for Productivity and Fitness Success | E55 47:52

10M ago47:52

47:52

Join Jason and Herman on the Idea Roastery podcast as they explore the importance of physical activity, mental strength, and productivity. They share their personal experiences and tips on how to stay motivated, incorporate exercise into your daily routine, and maximize productivity. Tune in to hear their insights and advice on how to stay focused,…

1
Beyond Conventional Energy: SMRs, Public Perception, and South Africa's Path | E54 37:16

11M ago37:16

37:16

Herman and Jason discuss the pros and cons of Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). They compare nuclear power to other energy sources. They discuss the potential for nuclear proliferation and the economic benefits of nuclear power. They also consider the public perception of nuclear power and the need for government subsidization. Energy is an important …

1
Aim for Mars: Inter-Planetary Motives and Implications | E53 37:56

11M ago37:56

37:56

In this episode of the Idea Roastery, hosts Jason and Herman discuss the potential benefits and challenges of space exploration and the idea of a trip to Mars. They discuss the required level of technological development needed from humanity, the potential for pursuits such as meteorite mining, and the nuances of exploration & colonization of Mars.…

1
Tourism's Footprint: The Evolving Impact of Technology on Travel and Adventure | E52 34:26

12M ago34:26

34:26

In this podcast, we discuss the pros and cons of modern tourism, and how it has changed the way people travel. We discussed how people often travel for social validation, rather than for the adventure, and how camera technology should be used to be present in the moment, rather than to capture it and come to a conclusion we all agree on. Topics - P…

1
Climate Solutions Unleashed: Exploring Geoengineering for a Sustainable Future | E51 42:27

1y ago42:27

42:27

In this podcast, the hosts discussed the potential of geoengineering projects to help reduce the effects of global warming. They discussed the idea of injecting aerosols into the upper atmosphere to create a more stable climate, as well as the potential for individuals to create their own green tech projects to help reduce carbon emissions. They al…

1
The Future of VR: Gaming, Workspaces and Social Interactions | E50 37:37

1y ago37:37

37:37

In this podcast episode, we delve into the revolutionary Apple Vision Pro and its implications for virtual workspaces and productivity. We discuss the features and capabilities of the headset, including its advanced AI avatar system for video calls and the potential for creating immersive virtual work environments. We explore the challenges and opp…

1
The Beauty and Destruction: A conversation about volcanoes | E49 34:34

1y ago34:34

34:34

In this episode of the podcast, we discuss the fascinating and sometimes destructive phenomenon of volcanoes. We talk about the different types of volcanoes, how they form, and the risks they pose to humans. We also discuss the beauty and awe-inspiring nature of volcanoes, and how they have shaped the Earth's landscape. We discuss the following top…

1
Thinking about a future of AI governance - Part 2 | E48 47:33

1y ago47:33

47:33

In this episode we continue our discussion about AI and how it might affect the way the world operates in the future. This is a part 2 of our 2 part episode on AI and LLMs. Similar Episodes ChatGPT: Unraveling AI's Impact on Our Lives - Part 1 | E47 Will artificial intelligence take over the world? | E29…

1
ChatGPT: Unraveling AI's Impact on Our Lives - Part 1 | E47 47:19

1y ago47:19

47:19

In this episode, Herman and Jason engage in an open and honest discussion about artificial intelligence and its impact on the future of work. They explore the capabilities of ChatGPT, the ways AI is transforming industries, and how it's affecting our daily lives. They also address the need for caution and critical thinking as we continue to adopt a…

1
Rising to the Occasion: A Conversation about Bread | E46 42:53

1+ y ago42:53

42:53

Hey everyone! It's been a while since we put out a podcast due to some personal issues and then some technical ones. We're back with another edition with a lighter than air topic of bread! Enjoy! (00:17) Croissants are the devil! (02:30) Coffee shops, friands & awkward situations. (5:00) Getting into bread making during the pandemic & the differenc…

1
Flying in Style: The Good, the Bad, and the Luxury | E45 42:45

1+ y ago42:45

42:45

In this episode we discuss the miracle of flight and how it has evolved over time. We reminisce about their fascination with airports when they were kids and contrast it with their current dread of cramped spaces, bad food, and terrible experiences. They compare the treacherous journey of old with the convenience of modern travel, as well as the di…

1
Games, interaction & the ways we hang out | E44 47:41

1+ y ago47:41

47:41

In this podcast, the hosts reminisce about the social aspects of gaming in the early 2000s, particularly the rise of LAN parties. They discuss the joys of physically hanging out with friends and playing games together, as well as the decline of LAN parties with the advent of online gaming. They also touch on the current state of online gaming and t…

1
Our ageing & declining global population | E43 41:44

1+ y ago41:44

41:44

Discover the fascinating world of global demographics, economics, and policy in this podcast episode. From the impact of environmental factors on birth rates to China's manufacturing landscape, we explore a range of critical topics, including the history and implications of China's one-child policy, aging populations, GDP, and immigration policy. W…

1
Talking about biodiversity | E42 39:13

1+ y ago39:13

39:13

Ever wondered about seed banks? In this episode we talk about the different roles that biodiversity plays in an ecosystem. We go through some of the challenges and opportunities that relate to biodiversity and how we as ordinary people can learn to be more engaged with this valuable natural resource. National Seed Collection South Africa Former CEO…

1
What about fusion energy? | E41 43:41

1+ y ago43:41

43:41

We're back!! It's 2023 and all we're thinking about in the start of the new year is fusion energy! In this episode we talk about the recent breakthroughs in fusion energy at the National Ignition Facility in US and we go through a mirage of topics such as what actually happened; what is the impact of having commercially available fusion energy; and…

1
Reflections on 2022 | E40 51:41

1+ y ago51:41

51:41

Thanks to all our valuable listeners who tune in on a regular basis! In this episode we cover some of the interesting things that happened in 2022 and what the future may hold for next year. We cover topics like energy security in South Africa and the world, AI and it's affects on the internet & the commoditization of art via NFTs, the economic dow…

1
Co-working | E39 39:50

1+ y ago39:50

39:50

In this episode we circle round to the topic of co-working and what the future of work looks like! Sure remote working has it's benefits but are there drawbacks to how teams interact and are there limiting factors for what roles are more suited to remote first. Outline Some banter about operating systems and laptops crashing (3:25) We get started a…

1
Talking about the recent tech layoffs | E38 35:58

1+ y ago35:58

35:58

In this episode we talk about the layoffs that are happening in the tech industry. We chat about way to fire and why companies get into this situation in the first place. We talk about some of the positive changes that could be on the horizon for Twitter and whether there is a future for people who loose their jobs at this time. Outline (0:00) We g…

1
Small Towns & the future of Muizenberg | E37 36:19

1+ y ago36:19

36:19

In this episode we talk about one of our favorite places on Earth - the small seaside town of Muizenberg. We talk about the develop works that are planned and what a upgraded town would look like. We talk about the challenges and some of the wider issues facing this project and then give some optimistic outlooks on anyone can build anything better …

1
Thoughts on Housing | E36 39:36

2y ago39:36

39:36

In this episode we do a take on housing. What are the challengers that renters and landlords face in this changing world. We talk about the effort that goes into building, operating and living in an apartment in the city with a few stories here and there. Outline (0:25) Herman talks about his think carpet and his new home. (2:05) What about steepne…

1
#35 Personal Finance 51:18

2y ago51:18

51:18

About the Episode In this episode we dive into the topic of personal finance, how to ensure that you don't run out of money at the end of the month, the importance of income rather than saving as a means of accumulating wealth and some topics here and there about how to generate value in this modern world. Outline (0:00) How to start the conversati…

1
#34 Scams & how to avoid them 38:25

2y ago38:25

38:25

In this episode we talk about the darker side of the internet, the topic of scams. We uncover some of the scams that we've be affected by over the years and the types of scams that are out there. We also give a few top tips on how to stay vigilant online and avoid getting taken for a ride! Outline (0:45) Talking about Jim Browning and something you…

1
#33 Longevity (part 2) - How to think about human longevity 39:35

2y ago39:35

39:35

We continue on the topic of longevity, this time we focus on human longevity. We talk about some of the types of illnesses we get as we age and some of the processes that can make life after 30 harder. We chat about some of the approaches we take and how we think about health, exercising and staying on track with exercise. Outline (0:00) Working ha…

1
#32 Longevity - How to think about product longevity 38:49

2y ago38:49

38:49

In this episode we talk about product longevity, drawing on a number of examples of where it works and where it doesn't. We talk about natural longevity and answer some questions about things that last a long time. Enjoy! This is first part of a two part series on the topic of longevity! Episode Outline (0:00) Banter about heaters, heat and cold an…

1
#31 What types of carbon capture are viable? 34:24

2y ago34:24

34:24

Carbon Capture Technologies In this episode we digest some of the technological breakthroughs in the realm of carbon capture, from the organic to the inorganic and present some optimism on if we are able to meet climate change agreements globally! Episode Notes (0:00) Intro to the show. (1:40) Why do we need carbon capture? (5:15) Different classes…

1
#30 Curious about Coffee 50:06

2y ago50:06

50:06

In this episode, we talk about that rich, creamy liquid that is coffee. We talk about the different styles of coffee and coffee shops; drop a little into the history and how coffee affected the development of the new-world; talk about the effect of climate change on coffee production and some of the good and bad side-effects of having this drink as…

1
#29 Will artificial intelligence take over the world? 38:43

2y ago38:43

38:43

In this episode we talk about AI and the intricacies of building machines and systems that interact with the world in a way similar or better than us humans. We play around with Siri and we give some examples of things we're really looking forward to in the future of this awesome technology! Transcript (00:00) Herman talks about his train adventure…

1
#28 Buying vs Renting in 2022 41:15

2y ago41:15

41:15

Apologies for the poor sound quality in this episode Should you rent or buy a house, and what are the pros and cons of both? In this episode we discuss: Internet in Thailand The economics of renting and buying The personal aspect of renting and buying Personal non-negotiable requirements when it comes to our living spaces How we aren't financial ad…

1
We've hit peak agriculture, what happens now? 32:50

2y ago32:50

32:50

In this episode we talk about agriculture and the impact of meat production on our worlds natural resources. We also discuss some potential alternatives and whether indoor farming has what it takes to satiate our global need for protein and high quality food. Outline (0:00) Intros and updates on travels. (2:34) Roll in the episode. (4:15) Herman in…

1
Can South Africa build better railways? 39:55

2y ago39:55

39:55

How does a country build or retrofit a rail, and why are trains so awesome? In this episode we talk about: - The importance of interconnected cities - Self-driving vehicles - Why trains work well - What it would take to build an interconnected South Africa 🚄🚃🚂

1
Can we turn poop into coal? 42:49

2y ago42:49

42:49

What is hydrothermal carbonization and is it everything we need for a sustainable future? In this episode we talk about: - The scooters in Bali town - Electrification of said scooters - Waste management - Turning waste into energy - Turning waste into building material (and the carbon sequestration of said waste) - Some other interesting things 🛵💩⚡…

1
A light chat about life & capitalism 44:10

2y ago44:10

44:10

In this episode we have a little off-the-cuff conversation about life and socialism: Start a bit about coffee of course. Herman has an new article! Motorcycle adventures and geeking on bikes leading into self sufficiency. Philosophical aspects of riding and being reliant on yourself in the middle of nowhere. Herman has tattoo sleeves on for some re…

1
Is energy efficient housing possible? 42:32

2+ y ago42:32

42:32

How can we make residential housing greener and cleaner? In this episode we talk about: - New architectural practices - Energy efficiency of old buildings - Passive homes - Retrofitting old homes to be more energy efficient - A bunch of other wank 🏢🏠🔥

1
The Airbnb Duality 42:22

2+ y ago42:22

42:22

Is Airbnb good or bad for a city? In this episode we talk about: - How Airbnb makes travel easier - The difference between intention and economic effect - The economics of a tourist destination - Gentrification - Bad Airbnb experiences - Our experiences both running and living in Airbnbs 🏠🏢 Detailed Show Notes (0:00) Preamble (2:30) Intro to Airbnb…

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Herman Martinus Podcasts

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