Vince Beiser is an award-winning journalist and author known for investigating the hidden forces that shape our world. His work focuses on the raw materials behind modern life—from sand to the critical "power metals" driving the clean energy transition. With a sharp eye for global systems and their human impact, Vince reveals the environmental, political, and ethical costs of progress. His reporting has appeared in The New York Times, Wired, The Atlantic, and more.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Conversation and Personal Interests
03:00 The Hidden Costs of Technology Production
06:03 The Paradox of Renewable Energy
09:14 Mining Practices and Global Implications
11:53 The Role of Indigenous Rights in Mining
15:00 The Environmental Impact of Electric Vehicles
18:05 Individual Responsibility vs. Systemic Change
20:58 Class Disparities in Environmental Responsibility
25:15 Urban Mobility and Sustainable Transportation
30:31 Politics of Transportation and Climate Change
35:27 The Complexities of Recycling
42:40 Optimism vs. Pessimism in Environmental Progress

Barbara Oakley, a professor of engineering at Oakland University, is a leading expert in learning science known for making complex learning accessible to all. She co-created the massively popular online course Learning How to Learn, which has reached millions worldwide, and delivered a widely viewed TEDx talk of the same name that offers practical, brain-based strategies for improving how we learn. Her books, including A Mind for Numbers and Learning How to Learn (co-authored with Terrence Sejnowski), provide science-backed tools to help students and professionals alike master difficult subjects, especially in areas like math and science.

EPISODE OUTLINE:

00:00 Exploring Learning and Misconceptions
03:03 The Impact of Age on Learning
06:03 Video Games and Cognitive Flexibility
09:02 The Controversy of Alzheimer's Research
12:07 The Importance of Free Speech
14:58 Navigating Expert Opinions and Trust
18:01 The Evolution of University Discourse
34:42 Navigating Trust in Experts
35:55 The Complexity of Altruism
39:10 Shifting Worldviews Through Experience
41:36 Holding Opinions Loosely
46:54 Maintaining Positivity in Conversations
49:15 Learning at Any Age
55:13 Leveraging AI for Learning
01:01:01 The Future of Learning with AI

David Christian is a historian best known for founding the field of Big History, which connects insights from science and the humanities to tell the story of the universe from the Big Bang to today. He co-created the Big History Project to bring this interdisciplinary approach to schools worldwide. In his popular TED Talk, The History of Our World in 18 Minutes, he outlines humanity’s place in a vast, interconnected cosmos through key moments of increasing complexity.

Joel Salatin is a prominent American farmer, author, and advocate for sustainable agriculture, often described as an influential voice in the alternative farming movement. He runs Polyface Farm in Virginia, where he practices and promotes regenerative farming techniques that prioritize animal welfare, environmental stewardship, and local food systems. Salatin is known for his outspoken criticism of industrial agriculture and has written several books encouraging a return to more traditional and ethical farming practices. His work emphasizes the importance of connecting consumers with their food sources and advocating for a decentralized, community-based food economy.

EPISODE OUTLINE:

00:00 Introduction and Inspiration for Sustainable Farming
01:21 Sustainable Farming on Small Farms and in Urban Areas
03:14 Embracing a Mindset of What Can I Do with What I Have
04:39 The Self-Indulgence and Status of Growing Food
05:30 The Disconnect from Nature and the Importance of Nature Connection
08:22 The Wonder and Awe of Nature
13:01 The Loss of Wonder in a Techno-Sophisticated Culture
17:19 The Potential of Seeds and the Need for Proper Land Management
21:42 Navigating Frustration and Opposition in the Industry
25:02 Starting Conversations with Good Intent and Finding Common Ground
35:47 The Disconnect between Industrial Agriculture and Natural Cycles
41:33 The Rise in Allergies and Decline in Biodiversity
51:12 The Impact of Convenience on Food Quality
59:38 Challenges Faced by Alternative Farming Practices

TRANSCRIPT:
https://share.transistor.fm/s/65fed18b/transcript.txt

EPISODE LINKS:
Joel's Website: https://www.thelunaticfarmer.com/

PODCAST INFO:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdpxjDVYNfJuth9Oo4z2iGQ
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/pop-culture/id1584438354
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2gWvUUYFwFvzHUnMdlmTaI
RSS: https://feeds.transistor.fm/popculture

SOCIALS:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tysonpopplestone/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tysonpopplestone9467

John Perkins is an American author known for his book "Confessions of an Economic Hitman," published in 2004. In the book, Perkins describes his role as an economic hitman, working for a consulting firm contracted by the U.S. government to facilitate development projects in developing countries. He describes how these projects were often a cover for promoting the interests of large corporations, pushing nations into debt and dependency. "Confessions of an Economic Hitman" became a bestseller and remained on the New York Times bestseller list for an extended period, sparking debate about American foreign policy and economic imperialism.

EPISODE OUTLINE:

00:00 Introduction and Compelling Opening
00:58 John Perkins' Role and Job Description
03:06 Conditionalities and Making Countries Subservient
04:05 Believing in the Right Thing and Measuring Prosperity
05:21 Wealth Disparity and Misleading Economic Reporting
06:18 Benefits for the Elite and Lack of Benefits for the Population
07:39 Awareness of the Terms and Conditions
08:20 Legal Bribing and Promises of Benefits
09:17 Scholarships and Connections with Universities
10:45 Working for a Private Company and Entry into Conversations
11:49 Offering Grants and Negotiating Loans
15:38 The Role of Jackals and Subtle Threats
19:33 Understanding the Truth and Confronting the Jaguar
22:22 Debt and Perception of its Impact
25:29 Difficulties in Following the Truth and Ethics
27:47 Believing in the Right Thing and Denial
30:42 Confronting the Jaguar and Changing the System
31:13 Transitioning to a Life Economy
32:32 Internal Struggle and Awakening
35:26 Leaving the Industry and Finding a New Path
38:42 Writing Confessions of an Economic Hitman
39:38 Resistance and Threats
42:12 The Decision to Publish the Book
46:26 Media Response and Influence
53:28 Power of Independent Media
59:09 Mainstream Media and Advertiser Influence
01:02:18 Media Bias and Freedom of the Press

TRANSCRIPT:
https://share.transistor.fm/s/7aa5e78d/transcript.txt

EPISODE LINKS:

John's Website: https://johnperkins.org

PODCAST INFO:

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdpxjDVYNfJuth9Oo4z2iGQ
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/pop-culture/id1584438354
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2gWvUUYFwFvzHUnMdlmTaI
RSS: https://feeds.transistor.fm/popculture

SOCIALS:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tysonpopplestone/
- YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tysonpopplestone9467

Lt. Col. Dave Grossman, a retired U.S. Army Ranger and former psychology professor at West Point, is widely known for his book On Killing: The Psychological Cost of Learning to Kill in War and Society. The book delves into the emotional and psychological impact that killing has on soldiers, and it introduced the concept of "killology"—the study of how taking a life affects the human mind. Grossman suggests that humans naturally resist killing, and that military training has evolved to help soldiers overcome this resistance. His research has significantly influenced military and police training programs, although some of his theories have sparked debate among scholars and critics.

EPISODE CHAPTERS

00:00 Introduction and Background of Lt. Col. Dave Grossman
02:52 Exploring the Concept of Killology
05:57 The Role of Combat and Hunting in Human Nature
08:49 Understanding the Sheepdog Mentality
12:05 The Importance of Open Conversations about Trauma
15:05 The Impact of Sleep Deprivation on Mental Health
17:53 The Connection Between Sleep and Performance
20:49 Parenting in the Digital Age
23:51 The Significance of Reading to Children
34:04 The Importance of Quality Education
35:51 The Role of Literature in Child Development
36:34 Faith and Spirituality in Personal Growth
39:53 Navigating Life's Challenges Without Faith
40:49 The Mission of Love in Spiritual Warfare
43:35 The Role of Faith in Healing and Recovery
45:31 Understanding the Concept of Killing vs. Murder
55:33 Bridging the Gap Between Faith and Recovery
01:01:40 The Healing Power of Companionship
01:04:44 The Adventure of Faith and Eternity

Jack Schafer is a retired FBI Special Agent and expert in behavioral analysis, with a deep background in spotting deception and fostering connection. He’s the author of The Like Switch and The Truth Detector, drawing on his career in counterintelligence to share practical tools for communication and influence.

EPISODE CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to Conversational Techniques
02:56 The Journey of Writing a Book
05:53 Understanding Nonverbal Communication
09:01 The Role of Behavioral Analysis in the FBI
12:01 Building Rapport Through Empathy
15:10 The Science of Charisma and Connection
17:51 Identifying Potential Spies
20:52 The Psychology Behind Espionage
23:52 The Process of Investigating Espionage
27:11 The Role of Happiness in Espionage
29:58 The Art of Persuasion in Sales
32:50 Practical Applications of Behavioral Techniques
39:28 Understanding Emotional Sunk Cost in Sales
41:21 The Power of Non-Verbal Communication
42:53 Building Rapport for Successful Sales
44:52 Overcoming Introversion in Social Situations
48:46 Navigating Rejection and Building Confidence
51:50 The Journey to Self-Acceptance
56:22 Cultural Insights and Travel Experiences

PODCAST INFO:

YouTube:   / @tysonpopplestone9467
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast...
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2gWvUUY...
RSS: https://feeds.transistor.fm/popculture

SOCIALS:
- Instagram:   / tysonpopplestone
- YouTube:    / @tysonpopplestone9467  

Dr. Alex Korb is a neuroscientist, author, and coach specializing in mental health and well-being. He holds a Ph.D. in neuroscience from UCLA and is best known for his book The Upward Spiral, which explores how small, science-backed changes can help improve mood and break the cycle of depression. His research focuses on brain activity, emotional regulation, and motivation, and he has worked as a consultant and coach to help people apply neuroscience principles to their daily lives. Through his writing, speaking, and coaching, he translates complex scientific ideas into practical strategies for improving mental health and overall well-being.

NOTABLE LINKS:
Free Guide to Breaking Out of Over Thinking:  https://alexkorbphd.click/guide-1
Book: Get it here. 

EPISODE CHAPTERS:

00:00 Introduction to the Conversation
02:57 Exploring Audience Engagement and Podcast Themes
05:46 The Art of Conversational Interviews
09:00 Authenticity in Communication
11:54 The Complexity of Science and Communication
14:59 Understanding Individual Differences in Science
17:51 The Limitations of Scientific Averages
20:50 Subjective Experience vs. Objective Data
23:48 The Nuances of Comedy and Individuality
34:01 The Science of Comedy and Performance
35:20 Personal Journey in Stand-Up Comedy
39:20 Understanding Humor and Acceptance
42:19 The Connection Between Emotions and Energy
44:55 The Brain's Role in Mental Health
49:59 Navigating Emotions and Control
55:15 Acceptance and Emotional Fluctuations
01:01:41 Finding Balance in Anxiety and Control

TRANSCRIPT:
https://share.transistor.fm/s/06a9a75c/transcript.txt

PODCAST INFO:

YouTube:   / @tysonpopplestone9467
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast...
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2gWvUUY...
RSS: https://feeds.transistor.fm/popculture

SOCIALS:
- Instagram:   / tysonpopplestone
- YouTube:    / @tysonpopplestone9467  

Robin Dreeke is a former FBI agent and expert in social dynamics, specializing in building trust, improving communication, and mastering interpersonal relationships. He spent years working with high-stakes negotiations and in the Bureau's Behavioral Analysis Program. Robin's expertise lies in understanding human behavior, and he is the author of several books, including It's Not All About Me: The Top Ten Techniques for Building Quick Rapport with Anyone. He has been a featured speaker on topics like leadership, trust, and influence, offering invaluable insights into how people think, act, and connect.