David McWilliams is an Irish economist, author, and broadcaster known for making complex economic ideas accessible to a wide audience. He has written several bestselling books on economics and hosts “The David McWilliams Podcast,” where he discusses global finance, politics, and current affairs. McWilliams is also the founder of the Kilkenomics festival, which blends economics and comedy to explore economic issues in an engaging way.In our conversation we discuss:(00:00) Why a paper bill has value(00:41) Money’s real nature: a social technology(03:39) Money begins with cities (Sumer) + civilization “stack”(07:51) Money as collective belief (almost like religion)(08:51) Money as peace: trade vs war + early debt stories(13:38) Money, storytelling, and trust at scale(16:28) Before money: tally sticks / “Stone Age blockchain”(19:32) First money: grain, granaries, and early currencies(21:57) Coins arrive: Lydians → Greeks → rational thinking(25:25) Paper money: China first, Europe expands it(26:59) Why money history matters today(28:28) How banks create money + trust + 2008 lesson(33:01) Misconceptions: bubbles, FOMO, and human psychology(37:30) Rich vs poor: time horizons (and why)(45:18) $1,000 at birth: stake in the future + paradox of aggregation(50:24) What schools should teach: trading cards as economics(54:10) The pursuit of money: freedom, immigrants, ambition(59:07) Where to find David + festivals / TED talkLearn more about David here:"The History of Money: A Story of Humanity": https://a.co/d/0eKkoxrRDavid McWilliams Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@UCEmyysMARbViCw8M7RNFxcg Kilkenomics Festival: https://www.kilkenomics.com/Watch the full episode on Youtube here: https://youtu.be/cuumfI_9J-4

Dr. Orion Taraban is a licensed psychologist specializing in relationships, personal development, and men's mental health. Creator of the popular podcast, PsycHacks, Dr. Orion Taraban discusses psychological topics to incite viewers to see themselves and the world around them from a new perspective.

In our conversation, we discussed:

(00:00) – Introduction to relationship failure and shifting desires
(1:09) – Evolution of personal attraction over time
(4:20) – Expecting one partner to meet all needs
(8:32) – Is attraction about missing self-parts?
(18:02) – Prioritizing mission over relationship
(25:26) – Can sexual boredom be overcome?
(32:53) – Does body count affect long-term success?
(34:48) – Do men and women cheat for different reasons?
(40:09) – Is infidelity chasing lost identity?
(43:05) – Growth through struggle: green or red flag?
(47:53) – Transitioning from short-term to long-term strategy
(53:46) – Have women’s standards for men changed?
(1:03:17) – If work disappears, what changes attraction?
(1:10:40) – What masculine trait is most scarce today?
(1:16:18) – Does male vulnerability harm attraction?
(1:20:20) – How can young men build confidence?
(1:29:30) – Advice for men feeling invisible
(1:32:29) – Relationship question you still ponder?
(1:35:12) – Why declining birth rates despite legacy desire?
(1:37:59) – One tweet for modern relationship success

Learn more about Dr. Orion Taraban and his work here:

"The Value of Others" - https://amzn.to/3xQuIFK"The Captains' Quarters" - https://the-captains-quarters.mn.coWebsite: https://oriontarabanpsyd.com/

Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSduXBjCHkLoo_y9ss2xzXw

Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/cIMBjvpZG48

Mark Manson is a bestselling author, blogger, and cultural commentator known for his honest, no-nonsense take on personal growth. He first gained global recognition with Models, a practical guide to dating and authenticity, followed by the international bestseller The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck. His work challenges traditional self-help by emphasizing values, responsibility, and psychological realism. Mark also hosts the podcast SOLVED, where he explores life’s hardest questions through science, philosophy, and candid conversation.

In our conversation we discuss:

(0:34) – Reinventing identity across career stages
(4:31) – Advice for releasing outdated identities
(8:29) – Letting go of former selves
(10:55) – Effects of quitting alcohol
(16:59) – Handling social stigma when not drinking
(19:08) – Developing a healthy relationship with boredom
(25:59) – Subtraction versus addition in personal growth
(28:33) – Balancing self-acceptance and self-improvement
(30:55) – Motivation without tying worth to success
(33:44) – What deserves a scarcity mindset
(36:49) – When suffering gives life meaning
(41:40) – Finding a meaningful purpose to pursue
(44:24) – Values grounded in personal control
(47:13) – Identity tied to work in future societies
(52:02) – How status changes when wealth declines
(53:48) – Self-help as modern secular religion
(59:32) – Will religion make a comeback
(1:02:05) – Law of “fuck yes or no” explained
(1:04:04) – Key questions to evaluate relationships
(1:06:08) – Identifying non-negotiables in partners
(1:09:16) – Why attraction feels uncontrollable
(1:16:23) – Ending friendships that no longer serve
(1:21:00) – Personal growth focus right now

Watch full episodes on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@seankim⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/heyseankim

Dr. Roger Seheult is a physician specializing in pulmonary and critical care medicine and is widely recognized for his expertise on vitamin D and sunlight’s role in human health. He is the co-founder of MedCram, where he explains the science behind vitamin D, immune function, sleep, and metabolic health in a clear, evidence-based way. Dr. Seheult is known for translating complex medical research into practical guidance that helps people optimize health and resilience.

In our conversation we discuss:

(0:00) – Sunlight benefits beyond vitamin D
(3:39) – Can sunlight increase lifespan
(6:36) – Sunlight versus outdoor activity benefits
(13:20) – Best time of day for sunlight
(19:52) – Morning cortisol: wake time versus sun timing
(21:01) – Is sunlight best cortisol trigger
(22:56) – Front-loading cortisol and workout timing
(27:26) – Blue light effects on circadian rhythm
(33:36) – Why earlier sleep improves energy
(39:12) – Can late sleepers fully adapt
(40:26) – Ideal sleep and wake schedule
(44:01) – Can weekend sleep make up deficits
(45:39) – Daily melatonin use safety
(51:04) – Recommended sleep supplements
(1:00:30) – Are chronotypes fixed or flexible
(1:00:53) – Sunscreen risks and benefits
(1:05:39) – Face sunscreen with body sun exposure
(1:08:38) – Sun exposure needed for vitamin D
(1:11:44) – Optimal vitamin D dosage and toxicity
(1:14:05) – Other key immune system boosters
(1:19:47) – Hot and cold therapy for immunity
(1:25:52) – Sauna and cold exposure guidelines

Watch full episodes on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@seankim⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/heyseankim

Dr. Dominic D’Agostino is a scientist and associate professor at the University of South Florida, internationally known for his research on ketosis, metabolic health, and human performance. His work explores the therapeutic and performance benefits of ketogenic diets, fasting, and metabolic therapies, including applications in cancer, neurological disorders, and extreme environments. Dr. D’Agostino has advised elite military units, NASA-affiliated research programs, and professional athletes. He is widely respected for translating cutting-edge metabolic science into practical strategies for health and resilience.

In our conversation we discuss:
(0:00) What is the ketogenic diet overview
(2:52) How carbs versus keto affect the body
(5:44) Why should someone try keto
(9:45) Mental focus benefits of ketosis
(14:48) Cyclical versus continuous ketogenic dieting
(22:56) Keto fat intake and cardiovascular risk
(32:40) Low-carb versus strict keto risks
(37:35) Carnivore diet versus ketogenic diet
(43:22) Ancestral eating and adding berries
(48:11) Best timing for carbs on keto
(52:35) How beginners should start keto
(57:12) Managing keto flu and side effects
(1:01:10) Ketosis effects on sleep quality
(1:07:48) Melatonin use and long-term safety
(1:13:02) Quality of life versus strict dieting
(1:19:14) Where to learn more about keto research

Watch full episodes on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@seankim⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/heyseankim

Dr. Neal Barnard is a physician, clinical researcher, and founder of the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine (PCRM). He is a leading advocate for plant-based nutrition and has conducted groundbreaking studies on how diet affects diabetes, heart disease, and brain health. Dr. Barnard is the author of numerous bestselling books, including The Power Foods for the Brain and Your Body in Balance. Through his research and public education efforts, he has become one of the most influential voices in promoting evidence-based, compassionate nutrition.

In our conversation we discuss:

(00:00) – Misconceptions and origins of the plant-based diet
(02:24) – Early exposure to heart disease and meat connection
(05:11) – Discovery that plant-based diets reverse diabetes
(06:07) – Portion control vs. natural body regulation
(07:38) – Humans as plant-eaters, not natural carnivores
(08:53) – Stone Age tools enabled unnatural meat consumption
(10:22) – Returning to plant-based diets improves health
(14:10) – Reversing diseases through diet changes and research
(16:03) – What “plant-based” truly means and typical meals
(17:33) – How fat buildup causes insulin resistance
(18:53) – Three-week vegan diet and diabetes improvement
(20:47) – Why omnivorous diets fail long-term
(21:59) – Clarifying vegan vs. plant-based terminology
(22:31) – Comparing keto and plant-based diet results
(25:12) – Health risks and misconceptions of ketogenic diets
(27:36) – The four pillars of a healthy diet
(29:37) – Environmental and ethical impact of meat consumption
(33:14) – Getting sufficient protein from plants
(35:22) – Shrimp farming ethics and environmental damage
(39:26) – Food production methods vs. health outcomes
(41:31) – Protein intake debates and sarcopenia
(45:03) – Plant protein sources and practical meal ideas
(47:02) – Dining out and global vegan meal options
(49:44) – Supplements: B12, D, iodine, omega-3s
(54:06) – Iron sources and risks of excess iron
(59:33) – Dairy, hormones, and links to cancer
(1:07:06) – Compassion, evolution, and human indifference to animals
(1:13:20) – Cultural and economic factors in diet choices
(1:20:11) – Ethical debates about plants, pain, and life
(1:23:22) – Dr. Barnard’s books and closing reflections

Watch full episodes on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@seankim⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/heyseankim

Richard Shotton is a behavioral science expert, author, and consultant specializing in applying psychological research to marketing and consumer behavior. He is best known for his bestselling books "The Choice Factory" and "The Illusion of Choice", which reveal how insights from behavioral science can influence decision-making and brand success. With over two decades of experience in advertising, Shotton works with leading companies to apply evidence-based strategies that drive real-world results. He is also a sought-after speaker, known for making behavioral science practical, engaging, and actionable.

In our conversation we discuss:

(00:00) – Who benefits from this conversation and book overview
(00:44) – Behavioral science applied to business and marketing
(01:28) – Psychology principles also shaping personal brands
(02:45) – Focus vs variety: the goal dilution effect
(03:52) – Study showing multiple benefits reduce credibility
(05:27) – Why people trust specialists over generalists
(07:06) – Restaurant and brand examples proving focus wins
(07:54) – Five Guys story: simplicity and specialization
(09:46) – How focus improves both product and perception
(10:39) – Exceptions like Amazon and Google’s success
(12:14) – Why AI brands should emphasize specialization
(17:13) – Applying focus and credibility to personal branding
(18:55) – The Pratfall Effect: admitting flaws builds trust
(21:30) – Using weaknesses to strengthen authenticity
(24:11) – Price perception: high cost implies high quality
(26:22) – Smart ways to admit flaws and gain believability
(27:27) – Case studies: Avis, Buckley’s, and embracing flaws
(31:07) – Kraft’s hidden reformulation and expectation bias
(35:31) – Eco-friendly bias and performance expectations
(38:40) – The Zeigarnik Effect: memory from incomplete tasks
(43:26) – KFC secrecy and Coca-Cola mystery as engagement tools
(45:28) – Illusion of effort: visible work increases perceived value
(49:20) – Transparency in design: Dyson, kitchens, and websites
(54:27) – Behavioral biases as flexible tools for persuasion
(57:01) – Testing ideas ethically through observation
(1:02:43) – Liquid Death and breaking conventions to stand out
(1:07:04) – Repetition and the mere exposure effect
(1:10:40) – False consensus: marketers aren’t their audience
(1:12:18) – Main takeaway: remove barriers, make it easy

Learn more about Richard

Astroten - Richard's Company

Amazon Book Link - Hacking the Human Mind

Choice Factory

Watch full episodes on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@seankim⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

Connect on IG: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://instagram.com/heyseankim

Dr. Ellen Langer is a social psychologist and professor at Harvard University, widely regarded as the "mother of mindfulness." Her groundbreaking research explores how mindset influences health, aging, and performance, emphasizing the power of awareness in everyday life. She is the author of several influential books, including Mindfulness and The Mindful Body, which challenge assumptions about control, perception, and well-being. Dr. Langer’s decades of work have transformed how psychology understands the connection between mind and body.

In our conversation we discuss:

(00:00) – Defining mindlessness: autopilot, past-driven behavior

(00:49) – Mindfulness beyond meditation: simply noticing change

(01:21) – Embrace uncertainty to pay attention

(02:07) – Find novelty in the familiar

(04:29) – Question assumptions; rules change with context

(11:03) – Mind–body unity vs inherited dualism

(14:03) – Placebo shows belief shapes physiology

(15:57) – “Counterclockwise”: mindset rejuvenates aging markers

(17:31) – Reframing work as exercise improves health

(19:35) – Perceived time alters healing and glucose

(22:09) – Fatigue depends on framing and context

(24:31) – Challenge human “limits”; language shapes ability

(28:15) – Prefer mindful imperfection over robotic perfection

(33:27) – Behavior makes sense from actor’s perspective

(36:47) – GLADO: generous, loving, authentic, direct, open

(39:31) – Events are neutral; interpretations create stress

(55:39) – Language reframes: forgive/blame, try/hope, remission/cure

(1:03:47) – Mindful performance elevates art and creativity

(1:07:04) – Keep relationships fresh by noticing change

(1:14:34) – Daily cues: notice, reframe, play, stay curious

Learn more about Dr. Langer:https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ellen_Langerhttps://psychology.fas.harvard.edu/people/ellen-langer

Watch full episodes on: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@seankim⁠⁠Connect on IG: ⁠⁠https://instagram.com/heyseankim⁠

Dr. Neil deGrasse Tyson is an astrophysicist, author, and science communicator known for making complex cosmic concepts accessible to the public. He serves as the director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. Through his books, television appearances, and the podcast StarTalk, Dr. Tyson inspires curiosity about the universe and promotes scientific literacy worldwide. His engaging storytelling and wit have made him one of the most recognizable voices in modern science.

In our conversation we discuss:

(01:08) Mysteries that keep Neil deGrasse Tyson up at night
(03:47) How scientists learn to ask the right questions
(07:14) Philosophy’s role and value in modern science
(10:43) Why philosophers stopped influencing physical sciences
(12:54) Misinterpretations of Neil’s comments on philosophy
(17:03) Becoming famous and public accountability
(21:07) How scientists stay connected and exchange ideas
(24:51) Choosing between teaching, science, and public outreach
(28:14) Current research interests and unsolved astrophysics questions
(30:43) Impact of private space travel on science
(35:16) Relationship between science, politics, and the military
(36:30) Why Elon Musk won’t reach Mars first
(37:49) Future of space tourism and affordability
(41:00) Expanding human presence across the solar system
(47:35) Genetic engineering, ethics, and human evolution
(49:27) Global cooperation and genetic regulation challenges
(52:29) Human–AI integration and Neuralink skepticism
(55:01) Future of robots and human labor
(58:07) Early AI history and the Turing test
(1:02:21) Skills young people need in the AI era
(1:04:09) Teaching curiosity and lifelong learning
(1:07:04) How Neil developed communication and teaching skills
(1:09:37) Creating meaning and purpose in life
(1:11:01) How Neil wants to be remembered
(1:12:53) StarTalk, books, and inspiring public curiosity

Learn more about Dr. Neil:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neil_deGrasse_Tyson

Watch full episodes on: https://www.youtube.com/@seankim
Connect on IG: https://instagram.com/heyseankim

Dr. Robin Carhart-Harris is a neuroscientist and professor of neurology and psychiatry at the University of California, San Francisco, where he leads the Psychedelics Division. He is internationally recognized for pioneering research on psychedelics, brain function, and mental health. His studies have revealed how substances like psilocybin and LSD can “reset” brain networks and offer therapeutic potential for conditions such as depression and anxiety. Dr. Carhart-Harris is a leading voice in the renaissance of psychedelic science, making groundbreaking neuroscience accessible to both scientific and public audiences.

In our conversation we discuss:

(00:00) Misunderstandings people have about psychedelics
(02:27) Differentiating psychedelics from drugs like ketamine, MDMA
(08:39) Why people group all drugs together
(14:57) History of ancestral use of psychedelics
(21:46) Visions or insights during dark retreat
(23:17) Biohacks for psychedelic experiences without compounds
(29:10) Natural vs synthetic psychedelics and effects
(32:28) Albert Hoffman’s discovery of LSD
(37:45) Findings from legal LSD human studies
(45:55) Comparing SSRIs and psychedelics for depression
(46:27) Clarification on psilocybin as treatment
(48:49) Qualitative vs quantitative measures in trials
(51:34) No difference between SSRIs and psychedelics?
(54:21) Hesitations about psychedelics despite effectiveness
(54:56) Why clinicians hesitate to provide both options
(58:04) Downsides of SSRIs versus psychedelics
(1:03:46) Dependency risk of SSRIs vs psychedelics
(1:07:49) Personality traits suited for SSRIs vs psychedelics
(1:12:54) Microdosing versus single high psychedelic doses
(1:14:48) Placebo or real effects of microdosing
(1:18:57) Brian Johnson’s blueprint and psychedelics
(1:20:32) Psychedelics and potential longevity benefits
(1:26:01) Key takeaway and misconception to forget
(1:29:04) Where to follow for book updates

Learn more about Dr. Robin:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robin_Carhart-Harris
https://profiles.ucsf.edu/robin.carhart-harris
@Carhartharrislab

Watch full episodes on: https://www.youtube.com/@seankim
Connect on IG: https://instagram.com/heyseankim