Bikes In The City: Friend Or Foe? The Good System podcast

34:24

Episode Summary I tried meeting a friend downtown and realized there's literally nowhere to go without spending money. Every café wanted 7 euros for apple juice, park benches were designed to torture your spine, and the library was closed because "no one wants to work anymore." Welcome to late-stage capitalism's war on third places ! In this episode, I break down how we've systematically eliminated the spaces where people can gather, connect, and exist without opening their wallets. Third places aren't your home or workplace – they're the coffee shops, parks, libraries, and community spaces that make society actually function. I explore why third places are disappearing (spoiler: it's always about profit), how this isolation is literally killing us, and what we can do to fight back. From Barcelona's car-free superblocks to Vienna's lingering coffee culture, I share examples of places getting it right. Because honestly, shouldn't we be able to exist in public without justifying it through consumption? Key Points • Third places are dying because our economic system treats every space as wasted potential unless it's generating profit – parks become parking lots, community spaces become luxury condos • Social isolation from losing third places literally kills people: elderly adults without community connection face health impacts equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day • We've created a world where teenagers have nowhere to exist – malls kick them out, cafés demand constant consumption, and hanging out on streets attracts police attention • Libraries are our last true public third places , serving as community centers, job resources, and safe spaces while constantly fighting budget cuts and reduced hours • Cities like Barcelona prove another way is possible with car-free "superblocks" that transform streets into community living rooms where kids play and neighbors connect Related Links This episode is based on this article: https://iandebay.com/the-good-system/third-places-crucial-for-society/ Referenced episode: https://iandebay.com/podcast/why-cars-are-bad/ Ian's YouTube Channels: https://www.youtube.com/@Ian_DeBay https://www.youtube.com/@Ian_Debay_Shorts https://www.youtube.com/@Ian_DeBay_Podcast Subscribe to Ian's Newsletter: https://iandebay.substack.com…

The Good System Podcast

1
The Individual Carbon Footprint Myth: Why Your Sustainable Lifestyle Isn't Saving the Planet 33:02

8 days ago33:02

33:02

In this brutally honest episode, Ian DeBay exposes the greatest environmental misdirection of our time: your individual carbon footprint. Spoiler alert: your reusable bamboo straw isn't saving the polar bears. Episode Summary You've gone plastic-free, switched to cold showers, and calculated the carbon footprint of every breath you take. Congratulations on your perfectly sustainable lifestyle! Too bad, it's completely f***ing pointless. The climate is still changing. In this eye-opening episode, Ian reveals how the concept of a "personal carbon footprint" was actually created by BP (yes, the oil company) as a brilliant marketing strategy to shift responsibility from corporations to individuals. It's like if cigarette companies created lung cancer awareness campaigns focused exclusively on not standing near smokers rather than, you know, not producing cigarettes. What You'll Learn Why your meticulously calculated carbon footprint doesn't matter in the grand scheme of climate change How Ian's own bathroom sustainability journey led to both victories (soap bars!) and failures (goodbye, bamboo toothbrush) Why driving 45 minutes to buy local organic vegetables might actually be worse for the environment than walking to your corner store for imported produce How the construction, fossil fuel, and meat industries are the real drivers of climate change—and they're deeply embedded in our economic and political systems Why shame doesn't inspire change and how to have meaningful conversations about systemic issues instead Forget Your Individual Carbon Footprint—Do This Instead Living sustainably isn't bad—being vegan is healthier, walking is good for you, and using less energy saves money. But don't fool yourself into thinking your reusable water bottle will stop climate change. It won't—not as long as the system remains unchanged. So what should you do? Continue living sustainably if it makes you happy and aligns with your values (just don't let it distract you from the bigger picture) Be wary of expensive "sustainable" products—the best thing for the environment is usually to use what you already have Get political: vote, engage in local politics, join community groups, and support policy changes that regulate industries and transform infrastructure Remember: While one person changing their lifestyle barely registers on the global carbon scale, millions of people demanding systemic change can move mountains—like climate change moves glaciers. Final Thought Your individual carbon footprint is a concept created by BP. The system needs to change, not just you. Links & Resources Read the blog article this episode is based on Subscribe to Ian's Monthly Review Watch Ian on YouTube Podcast episode about the deodorant industry scam (German)…

The Good System Podcast

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Combating Hyperindividualism: How to Escape Your Personalized Loneliness Bubble 19:13

15 days ago19:13

19:13

Do you feel lonely? Then dive with me deep into the bizarre world of hyperindividualism—a system that's turned us into perfectly unique snowflakes, each one isolated and meticulously customized, yet paradoxically identical in our loneliness. I am trying to unpack the hidden mechanisms of modern isolation, offering practical strategies for combating hyperindividualism and reconnecting with real human experiences. Key Takeaways: Understand how capitalism and technology fuel individual isolation Learn why personal freedom doesn't mean being alone Discover practical steps for breaking out of your personalized bubble Explore the difference between being alone and feeling lonely Read the blog post to this podcast episode: The Ironic Loneliness of Being Extremely Unique: A Guide to Combating Hyperindividualism Subscribe to my newsletter: https://iandebay.substack.com Follow me on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Ian_DeBay_Podcast…

The Good System Podcast

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Are Kids Really to Blame for Climate Change? Or Is It the System? 14:28

22 days ago14:28

14:28

In this episode of The Good System , I tackle a surprisingly heated question: should you feel guilty about having kids in the climate crisis? Spoiler alert — it’s not your toddler’s fault the planet’s on fire. I unpack the real reasons emissions keep rising (hint: it’s not diapers or birthday parties), and take a hard look at how blaming personal choices — like having children — lets the system off the hook. From billionaire emissions to baked-in fossil fuel infrastructure, we follow the trail of CO₂ and ask: who’s really driving the climate bus? Highlights include: The myth of the carbon-guzzling baby Why personal guilt is a distraction from systemic responsibility What actually changes emissions (it’s not family size) A gentle roast of lifestyle purity culture Some unexpected hope — seriously Whether you're a parent, future parent, or happily childfree, this episode reframes the conversation and invites you to stop blaming yourself — and start questioning the system. This episode is based on this blog article: https://iandebay.com/thoughts/kids-are-not-sustainable/ Mentioned episodes Is Overpopulation Really the Problem? Rethinking Climate Blame City vs Country: What is more sustainable For more information about the podcast and me: iandebay.com…

The Good System Podcast

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Is Overpopulation Really the Problem? Rethinking Climate Blame 19:06

29 days ago19:06

19:06

Summary: Overpopulation is the villain in many climate conversations. But is it really the root cause—or just a convenient scapegoat? In this episode of The Good System , I take a closer look at the narrative around overpopulation and ask whether it’s the number of people on Earth—or how a few of them run the place—that’s the real issue. I also talk about the fear of crowded spaces, the myth of “too many mouths,” and why even in a world with more people, we might actually need more babies (yes, really). If you’ve ever wondered whether humanity is the problem or just bad planning, this episode is for you. What’s Inside: Why overpopulation isn't the climate change smoking gun The difference between having more people and consuming more stuff A case for slow growth, equity, and (gasp) more children Systemic fixes that don’t start with blaming parents Links: Blog version: Overpopulation: Debunking the Myth Behind Climate Change Causes Subscribe to the newsletter: iandebay.com Follow the podcast: [The Good System]…

The Good System Podcast

1
Climate Change Humor: Saving the Planet One Joke at a Time 24:46

5 weeks ago24:46

24:46

Can we laugh our way through the climate apocalypse? In this episode of The Good System , host Ian DeBay dives headfirst into the most cheerful extinction-level event of our time: climate change. Yep, that one. We explore how comedy can cut through despair, inspire action, and maybe even help us cope with our slow march toward doom. From gallows humor to Greta jokes, this episode tackles the question: Is climate change humor even allowed? (Spoiler: yes, and it’s necessary.) In this episode, we cover: Why making jokes about the climate crisis isn't insensitive—it's survival The psychological toll of eco-anxiety and how humor helps The difference between coping and ignoring Examples of climate comedy done right (and hilariously wrong) Why laughter might be the last renewable resource we have Whether you're a climate activist, a concerned citizen, or someone who just needs a laugh before the next IPCC report drops, this episode is for you. Listen now and discover how humor might just save your climate sanity. Or read the full blog article , if you don't like my voice. Or watch the episode on YouTube ️ Keywords: climate change humor, climate crisis comedy, eco-anxiety coping, funny climate podcast, dark humor environment, laughing through climate change…

The Good System Podcast

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️ Failing to Achieve Goals & Finding a Better Way 21:46

7 weeks ago21:46

21:46

Have you ever had a goal, a plan, and the motivation—only to end up completely off track? In this honest and personal episode of The Good System , I open up about how I started my self-employment journey with a clear vision… and still managed to miss the mark. Through storytelling, humor, and a metaphor involving an SUV (don’t worry, no real injuries), I explore how easy it is to lose sight of your purpose—especially when you're focused on productivity, efficiency, and just “getting content out there.” In this episode, we talk about: Why failing at goals is more common than you think The difference between planning and actually doing Signs you're off track—and how to notice them sooner The hidden cost of chasing efficiency over meaning Realigning your work with your deeper goals (and your life) Whether you're a creator, entrepreneur, or just someone trying to build a better system for yourself, this episode is a reminder that it’s okay to mess up—and that it’s never too late to course-correct. ️Read the blog post to this episode: How to Fail at Goal Setting (and Still Win in the End) Join the newsletter for monthly reflections: Ian's Monthly Review Listen to more episodes of The Good System on your favorite podcast platform. If this episode resonated with you, please share it and leave a review—it helps a lot! TheGoodSystem #PodcastForCreators #FailingForward #SelfEmploymentJourney #MindfulProductivity #GoalSetting #BurnoutRecovery…

The Good System Podcast

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What is the good system 20:50

9 weeks ago20:50

20:50

In this podcast episode, we answer the question: What is The Good System. The Good System is a system of systems. It combines economic, political, and social systems. In The Good System, these parts work together and not against each other. For more information, visit: https://www.iandebay.com Subscribe to the newsletter: Ian’s Monthly Review https://iandebay.substack.com/ Watch all podcast episodes: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYRXeGFLxni6iqWQOmHBYkd7rJEfAXEgZ Listen to all podcast episodes: https://iandebay.com/podcasts/the-good-system-podcast/ Further Information…

The Good System Podcast

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Pro and Contra: How to reframe a message 15:41

10 weeks ago15:41

15:41

In this podcast episode, I talk about how to reframe a message from being negative and anti something to being positive and pro something. For more information, visit: https://www.iandebay.com Subscribe to the newsletter: Ian’s Monthly Review https://iandebay.substack.com/ Watch all podcast episodes: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYRXeGFLxni6iqWQOmHBYkd7rJEfAXEgZ Further Information…

The Good System Podcast

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We are all NIMBYs 12:16

11 weeks ago12:16

12:16

In this episode of "The Good System," host Ian DeBay delves into the concept of NIMBYism - "Not In My BackYard" - and explores why we are all, knowingly or unknowingly, NIMBYs. Ian discusses the paradox of wanting outcomes without enduring the struggles, using examples from everyday life and broader societal issues, such as climate change. He shares a vision of a future system that balances individual freedoms with the common good. For more information, visit: https://www.iandebay.com Subscribe to the newsletter: Ian’s Monthly Review https://iandebay.substack.com/ Watch all podcast episodes: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYRXeGFLxni6iqWQOmHBYkd7rJEfAXEgZ Further Information…

The Good System Podcast

1
How The Good System keeps you healthy 16:39

12 weeks ago16:39

16:39

In this insightful episode, host Ian DeBay delves into the systemic issues that encourage unhealthy lifestyles and explores how adopting healthier habits benefits both individuals and the planet. He shares personal experiences of rehabilitation and highlights the equation: healthy system = healthy people = healthy planet. Ian discusses the flaws of current systems that prioritize profit over well-being and explores solutions for a more balanced lifestyle. For more information, visit: https://www.iandebay.com Subscribe to the newsletter: Ian’s Monthly Review https://iandebay.substack.com/ Watch all podcast episodes: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYRXeGFLxni6iqWQOmHBYkd7rJEfAXEgZ Further Information https://iandebay.com/the-good-system/healthy-system-healthy-people-healthy-planet/ https://youtu.be/HmvUXPSBSyM?si=5nxLfSjRcQ9DbwhL…

The Good System Podcast

1
Bikes in the City: Friend or Foe? 15:49

13 weeks ago15:49

15:49

In this episode of The Good System, host Ian DeBay explores the role of bicycles in urban environments, questioning if bikes are indeed better than cars. While acknowledging the potential benefits of replacing cars with bikes, Ian delves into the challenges that come with bicycles and why they might not be the complete solution for city transportation. For more information, visit: https://www.iandebay.com Subscribe to the newsletter: Ian’s Monthly Review https://iandebay.substack.com/ Watch all podcast episodes: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYRXeGFLxni6iqWQOmHBYkd7rJEfAXEgZ Further Information https://iandebay.com/the-good-system/the-problem-with-bikes-in-the-city/ https://youtu.be/8egM0XHXhrE?si=zFTny4wWxaFAkfu_…

The Good System Podcast

1
How to shop sustainable 24:30

14 weeks ago24:30

24:30

Join Ian DeBay on "The Good System," as he explores practical tips for sustainable shopping in our current system. Discover three key steps to align your purchases with eco-friendly practices: 1) Repair items instead of replacing them to minimize waste. 2) Buy second-hand or refurbished products for a sustainable choice. 3) Opt for new, yet sustainably made items when necessary, despite the challenges. Ian highlights the difficulties posed by consumerism and the capitalist system, providing insights on making repairs affordable, enhancing transparency in product sustainability, and addressing obstacles in purchasing truly eco-friendly goods. Envision a future where sustainable shopping is effortless in "The Good System," where repair services are accessible, second-hand options abound, and sustainable products are the norm. Remember, individual efforts help, but systemic change is crucial. Support political movements advocating for environmental reform. For more insights and discussions on system change, subscribe to the podcast, follow Ian's blog, and connect on social media. For more information, visit: iandebay.com Subscribe to the newsletter: Ian’s Monthly Review Watch all podcast episodes Further Information…

The Good System Podcast

1
City vs Country: What is more sustainable 19:59

15 weeks ago19:59

19:59

The podcast episode compares the sustainability of city and country living, with a focus on infrastructure, transportation, land usage, and social aspects. While the countryside offers more space and a slower pace, cities are more sustainable due to better infrastructure, energy efficiency, and social services. Suburbs are criticized for combining the worst of both worlds, lacking essential amenities and contributing to urban sprawl. Ian DeBay compares city and suburban living, arguing that cities are more sustainable due to their density and potential for reduced car usage. To reduce emissions, Ian DeBay suggests implementing renewable energy sources, energy-efficient buildings, and limiting car use in both cities and the countryside. We envision a future with only cities, towns, and villages, connected by high-speed trains and accessible by foot, bike, or public transportation. For more information, visit: iandebay.com Subscribe to the newsletter: Ian’s Monthly Review Watch the Podcast on YouTube: youtube.com/@Ian_DeBay Further Information City vs Country: Where to live in a good system - Ian DeBay Episode about Cars…

The Good System Podcast

1
Why cars are bad 17:00

16 weeks ago17:00