▶️ Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardatherton-firsthuman/

In this fascinating conversation, I sit down with Daniel Hulme, an AI expert, innovator, and thought leader. Daniel has an extensive track record, from founding the AI optimization startup Satalia (acquired by the advertising giant WPP) to exploring groundbreaking ideas in AI consciousness, neuromorphic computing (building computers that work more like human brains), and agent verification (checking that an AI is really who it claims to be).

Together, we discuss the intersection of humanity and technology, diving into the limitations of artificial intelligence, the significance of empathy, and how creativity remains our most vital skill in the age of automation. Daniel offers thought-provoking perspectives on education reform, critical thinking, and project-based learning as the future of personal and professional growth.

We talk:

- Apple’s doubts about AI reasoning ability

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If you’re curious about how humans can thrive in an increasingly AI-driven world, this episode provides valuable insights into fostering innovation, adapting to change, and embracing what makes us human.

▶️ Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardatherton-firsthuman/

In this challenging episode (challenging in a good way), I sit down with Steven Young, author of ‘A Fool’s Wisdom’.

Steven’s path is remarkable. From a PhD in nuclear physics, to having all his assumptions about reality turned upside, it’s been emotional. Atomic theory, accepted cosmology, and the theory of gravity - he now questions it all. 

Steven takes his place amongst a growing cadre of intellectuals rejecting Modernity’s scientific orthodoxies.

But this isn’t just about poking a stick at accepted dogmas. Steven is now embracing a notion of science that integrates a broader understanding of consciousness. A return to the powerful, intuitive alchemical principles on which early science was founded. One that can inspire and empower creatives and leaders alike.

We discuss:

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Don’t miss this fascinating conversation—it might change how you view creativity forever.

▶️ Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardatherton-firsthuman/

My guest in this episode, Piers Fallowfield-Cooper, was an unlikely city slicker. With keen interest in literature and a qualification in hotel management and hospitality, he got into commodities trading by chance. Once there, he found that he had a considerable knack for it.

From trading, he pivoted to a distinguished career in business leadership. 

We talk:

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Whether you’re a leader in your field or someone seeking profound insights into personal and professional growth, this conversation is packed with wisdom, humor, and practical takeaways.

▶️ Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardatherton-firsthuman/

In this highly energising episode, I sit down with Joel Zuckerman, author of the new book Gratitude Tiger and a passionate advocate for the power of gratitude.

I’ve been a some-time gratitude journaller for a while and I’ve known about the power of gratitude for a long time.

Joel has taken this to another level, having written over 280 gratitude letters in a process that started as a one-off and has become the defining theme of his professional life. 

Joel reveals how building a gratitude writing habit doesn’t need you to have great skill, but can be as simple as a few heartfelt sentences. He introduces the philosophy behind his acronym "TIGER" (Tapping Into Gratitude Engenders Rewards) and offers actionable advice for cultivating meaningful connections both personally and professionally.

We talk:

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Enjoy!

▶️ Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardatherton-firsthuman/

This week’s episode is perhaps one of the most uncomfortable I’ve yet recorded. A conversation with Jeffrey Pfeffer, the renowned author of "Power: Why Some People Have It and Others Don't" and “Leadership BS: Fixing Workplaces and Careers One Truth at a Time”,  and professor at Stanford Graduate School of Business, we dive deep into the principles of power, influence, and career acceleration. 

Jeffrey offers his view on the raw truth about what it takes to stand out, thrive, and succeed in a world shaped by competition and perception. From strategies to gain influence to the controversial role of self-promotion, this conversation is packed with insights that challenge conventional wisdom about leadership and integrity.

Learn why keeping your head down might be holding you back, how deliberate practice can transform your career, and why following Jeffrey’s proven methods have made many of his students wildly successful. 

As Jeffrey takes a torch to leadership development orthodoxy, we cover:

Links:

Jeffrey’s Website

Whether you're a budding leader or seasoned professional, this episode will inspire and empower you to take charge of your path. Don't miss out on this transformative discussion—subscribe for more thought-provoking conversations about what it means to be human.

▶️ Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardatherton-firsthuman/

This week, I sit down with Douglas Mulhall, author of the bestselling book Discovering the Nature of Longevity: Restoring the Heart and Body by Targeting Hidden Stress. Douglas has spent over 30 years creating products that are not only good for people but also the environment, with significant contributions in collaboration with European governments.

We take a deep look at elastin, a major area of interest for Douglas. It’s a vital protein key to your body’s resilience.

Elastin is in more than 30 organs. It’s in your arteries. It’s essential for everything in your body to expand and contract. 

We talk:

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If you’re curious about unlocking your body’s potential, this episode is an absolute must-watch! Don't miss out—subscribe for more thought-provoking conversations about what it means to be human.

▶️ Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardatherton-firsthuman/

This week, I sit down with Bill Benjamin, co-owner of The Last 8%, to explore the concept of tackling life’s most challenging moments—the “last 8%.” According to Bill, we excel in 92% of situations, but it’s the difficult, high-stakes moments—when tension, conflict, or pressure arise—that define us.

Bill shares how leaving a successful career in software to pursue his passion for emotional intelligence transformed his life. He dives into practical strategies for managing emotions, navigating tough conversations, and building thriving teams.

Whether you’re seeking personal growth or leading others, this episode offers powerful tools for managing challenges and making an impact.

We talk:

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Subscribe for more transformative conversations!

▶️ Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardatherton-firsthuman/

This week, we are thrilled to feature two remarkable guests: Sensei Zen Takai and Edward Olver.

Sensei Zen Takai, is a 16th-generation samurai warrior. After a brief stint as a punk rocker, he chose to return to his roots. With no descendants of his own and to ensure it lives on, he's on a mission to share his family's samurai tradition with the world.  He teaches mastery of the familiar samurai arts with creative expressions like calligraphy, poetry, and dance. Dedicated to self-mastery and spiritual alignment, Sensei encourages others to live harmoniously and connect deeply with their life's purpose.

A former military man and banker, Edward Olver experienced a profound awakening after realising that external success—the Hollywood actress girlfriend and the Knightsbridge corner office—did not fulfill him. Through personal upheaval, he rediscovered his dharma and embraced growth aligned with life's natural rhythms. Now based at Broughton Hall - a UK hub for cutting edge research into consciousness - Edward focuses on regenerative practices, living in harmony with nature, and integrating timeless wisdom to foster holistic well-being.

Their combined perspectives will offer insight into purposeful living.

We talk:

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Subscribe for more transformative conversations! 

▶️ Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardatherton-firsthuman/

Our guest this week is renowned author and speaker Byron Katie. Her work, referred to as 'The Work', is a simple yet profound method of self-inquiry aimed at identifying and questioning negative thoughts that cause suffering.

At its core are four questions: Is it true? Can you absolutely know it’s true? How do you react when you believe that thought? Who would you be without it? 

By moving these thoughts from the mind to paper and reflecting deeply, individuals can access greater clarity, love, and wisdom - and freedom from ego. 

Katie emphasizes integrity and fearlessness in this process, offering her tools freely to empower individuals to transform depression, fear, and limiting beliefs into peace.

We talk:

Links:

Subscribe for more transformative conversations! 

▶️ Connect with Richard on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardatherton-firsthuman/

This week we see Marcel Schwantes return to the show. 

Marcel is an author, leadership coach, and advocate for humane workplace practices. His journey into leadership began during his time working in a toxic hospital environment, where relentless stress landed him in the emergency room—an experience that profoundly shaped his views on leadership and well-being.

He now challenges traditional, warlike business narratives, advocating for radical love and humanity in leadership. 

His work inspires leaders to foster compassionate, thriving businesses by shifting focus from competition to collaboration and introspection.

We talk:

Links:

Subscribe for more transformative conversations!